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20,367 | 39cab03ba368b7a17931c04e203d44fac9745464 | By . Associated Press . PUBLISHED: . 16:13 EST, 11 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 08:33 EST, 12 May 2013 . Can we agree on this? Americans still think alike much of the time even if our politicians don't. To get heads nodding, just say something worrisome about the economy or dismissive of Washington. Almost all Americans consider themselves very patriotic, believe in God, value higher education and admire those who get rich through hard work. Not much argument there. But here's the oft-overlooked truth: Even some issues that are highly contentious in the partisan capital have solid public support across the country. United We Stand: Despite political differences at the ballot box, the American Dream is still alive. Most Americans still share similar values for life, liberty and the American way . National polls show that 7 of 10 people want to raise the minimum wage. Similar numbers want term limits for Congress, support building the Keystone XL pipeline to bring oil from Canada and back using government money to make preschool available to every child. There are toeholds of agreement on big, divisive issues such as immigration, abortion and guns. If those slivers of consensus were the starting point in debates, political compromise might just be possible. Instead, drama and conflict are what feed this country's party-driven politics, the news media, the bloggers and tweeters, even the pollsters who measure opinion. The 24-hour, left vs. right cacophony coming out of Washington tends to drown out any notes of national harmony. Maybe the great division in politics these days lies between Washington and the rest of the nation. Bonny Paulson thinks so. A retired flight attendant in Huntly, Va., she rents a Shenandoah Valley log cabin to travelers. Paulson gets an earful of people grumbling about politicians, but she doesn't hear much disagreement about the issues. Values: Americans still think a lot alike and share core values: Nine out of 10 call themselves very patriotic, believe in God, value higher education, and admire those who get rich through hard work . 'Washington is more polarized than the rest of the nation,' she says. Judy Hokse, visiting Washington with a group of volunteers serving meals to the homeless, says ordinary people are more entrenched in their political views than they were when she was a teenager in the 1970s. But the political standoff in Washington, she said, 'is just way out there. 'In our neck of the woods there are different opinions,' says Hokse, of Saugatuck, Michigan., 'but we can talk about them.' The notion of a divided country even divides the academics. Some political scientists bemoan a disappearing ideological center, reflected in the polarization consuming politics. Others dismiss the idea of a balkanized nation of Republican- or Democratic-leaning states. They see instead a laid-back land of mostly moderate, pragmatic voters remote from their highly partisan leaders. Certainly there's plenty for people to argue about. Last year's presidential race fanned long-standing debates over the size of government, the social safety net and taxes. Some states have begun recognizing gay marriage; many have imposed constitutional bans. Some are tightening gun laws, while others are looking to loosen them. Shared beliefs: Seven out of 10 Americans want to raise the minimum wage . Democrat Barack Obama is on track to become the most polarizing president in nearly seven decades of Gallup records. His predecessor, Republican George W. Bush, held the distinction previously, signaling a trend. Gallup says that 7 out of 10 people say Americans are greatly divided when it comes to the most important values. Yet with a few exceptions such as issues of race and gender and views of government, opinions haven't changed much in a quarter-century of Pew polls tracking political values. 'That's a really critical point that often gets overlooked,' said Michael Dimock, director of the Pew Research Center for the People & the Press. 'It's easy to assume when we see more partisan polarization that somehow American values are shifting. In most dimensions the way Americans overall look at things is very consistent over time.' While U.S. opinion overall stuck to the middle of the road, the politically engaged became better at sorting themselves into like-minded camps. Voters changed views or changed parties, and increasing numbers left the parties to become independents. Rockefeller Republicans and Reagan Democrats disappeared. The remaining party faithful are more ideologically distilled. Common ground: 7 out of 10 Americans say the poor have become too dependent on government assistance; even more want government action to make health care affordable and accessible . Two decades ago, Republican support for stricter environmental rules was at 86 percent, almost as high as for Democrats. Last year only 47 percent of Republicans wanted tougher environmental rules, Pew found. Democratic support remained high. On family values, it was Democrats who changed. Over 25 years, the numbers of Democrats saying they had "old-fashioned values" about family and marriage declined from 86 percent to 60 percent, while Republicans held steady. Despite the party shifts, stricter environmental rules and old-fashioned values are still endorsed by 7 out of 10 people. Likewise, the abortion debate divides the political parties and fervent activists. Yet most people stand somewhere in the middle. They overwhelmingly say abortion should be legal under some circumstances, especially in cases of rape, incest or to save the mother's life. At the same time, large majorities support some restrictions, such as a 24-hour waiting period and parental consent for minors. Gun control and illegal immigration? U.S. opinion is torn, with angry voices on all sides. Yet some ideas are getting support from 4 out of 5 people polled: extending federal background checks to all gun buyers, tightening security at the nation's borders, and providing a path to citizenship for some workers who are in the country illegally, if they meet requirements such as paying back taxes. So there's common ground. But even where people agree on big ideas, some of those ideas may conflict with each other. Republicans aren't the only ones who say business is the nation's backbone. Nearly three-fourths of Americans agree. But just as many worry that there's too much power in the hands of a few big companies — a Democratic-sounding sentiment. Seven in 10 say the poor have become too dependent on government assistance, but even more want government action to make health care affordable and accessible. Details matter. A resounding majority believes that in the United States 'the rich just get richer while the poor get poorer." But there's no consensus on what, if anything, to do about that. The nation is enduringly optimistic about Americans' ability to solve problems, but it's pessimistic about the people who make the rules in government and politics. Majorities believe elected officials are out of touch and harming the nation, and most say they prefer leaders who are willing to compromise, a rarity in Washington now. There's bipartisan disdain for lawmakers. The divided Congress gets 15 percent approval from Republicans and 13 percent among Democrats, according to Gallup. 'If you listen to the people here in town they're all fed up,' said Debbie Grauel, owner of an independent office supply store in Deale, Md. "Everybody's for term limits for everybody.' What else can bring a sprawling, diverse, free-spirited nation of 316 million close to agreement? It's hard to say. Polls rarely measure the mom-and-apple-pie stuff. 'If there's something that's really a consensus, you are not going to find surveys asking about it," said Tom Smith, director of the giant General Social Survey since 1980. Pollsters tend to drop those questions for something new. Of course, consensus of opinion doesn't guarantee action. Nine out of 10 people tell Pew it's their duty to always vote, but fewer than 6 in 10 of those who were eligible voted in the 2012 presidential election. Nor does harmony equal tranquility. Times of crisis create a rallying effect, epitomized by the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Bush's presidential approval rating jumped to 90 percent, the highest in Gallup's history. Approval of Congress reached 84 percent. In ordinary times, unity of opinion might be the wrong goal. 'If everybody agreed, there would be no debate,' said Gallup editor-in-chief Frank Newport. 'There's an argument to be made that from debate and disagreement come truth.' | Polls in the U.S. suggest Americans still think a lot alike .
Seven in 10 say the poor have become too dependent on government assistance .
More want government action to make health care affordable and accessible .
Many believe the rich just get richer while the poor get poorer .
Nine out of 10 call themselves very patriotic, believe in God and value higher education . |
58,787 | a6c2247413858c4e84e46a6c0f12528d98326875 | A woman accused of brutally slashing and shooting her one-time boyfriend to death in his shower months after they broke up could be put to death for the heinous crime. Prosecutors in Arizona began arguing today that 32-year-old Jodi Arias should receive the death penalty for the murder of her ex-boyfriend, Travis Alexander, who was killed in June 2008. Alexander, a 30-year-old Mormon motivational speaker, was found stabbed 27 times, with his throat slit and with a bullet in his head at his home in Mesa, Arizona days after the savage attack. 'This is not a case of whodunit. The person who did this killing sits in court today and it is the defendant Jodi Ann Arias,' prosecutor Juan Martinez told the Arizona courtroom on Wednesday. Arias, a photographer who had dated Alexander for nearly five months in 2007, has been in jail since her arrest. She has pleaded not-guilty to first degree murder. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . Her day in court: Jodi Arias has changed the timeline of events repeatedly but has most recently admitted that she did kill her ex-boyfriend but allegedly did so in self defense . Accused: Jodi Arias, 32, faces the death penalty after allegedly murdering her ex-boyfriend, right . But investigators and Alexander's . friends maintain that Arias became bitterly jealous and 'obsessed' with . him after the break up, and even stalked him in the months leading up to . his death. The prosecution is arguing that Arias . killed her ex-boyfriend after finding out that he had moved on and . planned to take his new girlfriend on a trip to Mexico. 'This love, well she rewarded that . love for Travis Victor Alexander by sticking a knife in his chest. And . he was a good man, well she slit his throat as a reward for being a good . man,' Mr Martinez said. The defense is painting an entirely . different picture of Alexander, saying that his relationship with Arias . was abusive and she killed him in self defense. Travis Alexander and Jodi Arias were involved in a rough sexual relationship before the death of Alexander in June 2008 . Happier times: She met Travis Alexander, a Mormon and motivational speaker, at a Las Vegas conference . 'Had Jodi not been forced to defend . herself, none of us would be here. In that one minute, had Jodi not . chosen to defend herself she would not be here,' defense attorney . Jennifer Willmott said. The couple had met at a work . conference in Las Vegas in September 2006 and began speaking on the . phone every day. Court records show they exchanged as many as 82,000 . emails. They started dating . in . February 2007 and, because Alexander was a Mormon, Arias chose to be . baptised into the church. But they broke up in June 2007, with Arias . telling police jealousy on both sides was to blame. In jail: Arias claimed she had nothing to do with the murder but later said it was out of self defense . In December 2007, Alexander . began dating another girl and allegedly told friends that Arias became so jealous that she . slashed the tyres on his car twice. In June 2008, Alexander told friends he thought Arias might have hacked . into his Facebook account and told her to stay away. Yet on June 4, she visited his home and they had sex before he was murdered. She later told police that they had maintained a secret sexual relationship despite breaking up, ABC reported. 'There's nothing about her that I see in . marriage material - or wife material,' Alexander had said, according to . his friend, Dave Hall. 'But it's hard to say no to a woman that sneaks . into your house, crawls in your bed and tries to, you know, seduce you.' At first she denied being at his . house the day he was killed, yet police found a camera in . Alexander's washing machine containing graphic pictures of the pair having sex. The water-logged camera, which belonged to . Alexander, had been damaged in the washing machine, but the Mesa police crime lab was able to recover images, some of which had been deleted. Among those deleted were pictures showing Alexander posing naked in the shower at 5.22pm, with the last picture . showing him alive at 5.30pm. Later photos showed him bleeding . while on the floor. The camera also contained pictures of Arias posing naked on . Alexander's bed at 1.40pm. On June 9, his friends went to his upscale home after he had failed to return their calls. They found him dead in his shower and his body was 'well into the decomposition process'. Troubled: Alexander's friends said she stalked him in the months before his death and slashed his tires . Missed: Alexander, a motivational speaker from Arizona, was found several days after the killing . Wounds show that Alexander attempted . to fight back, court records show. An autopsy found he sustained 27 puncture . wounds and one gunshot wound, with the bullet found in his left cheek. Investigators also found a bloody left palm print with Arias' DNA on the bathroom wall. Her DNA was also found . in hair recovered from a bloody wall, according to the Arizona Republic. After initially claiming that she had not been at his home that day, Arias changed her story to admit she had been there - but had not killed her ex-boyfriend. 'I witnessed Travis being attacked by . two other individuals,' she told Inside Edition. 'Who were they? I . don't know. I couldn't pick them up in a police lineup.' Scene: A grab shows Alexander's home in Mesa surrounded by police tape after his body was found . Deceit: Police found a camera in Alexander's washing machine, pictured, that contained pictures of him having sex with Arias on the day of the killing. There were also pictures of his dead body . She later changed her story once . again, telling the court that she killed Alexander in self defense after . he became angry when she dropped his camera. She claims he had been sexually and physically abusive throughout their relationship. 'It makes me sick because I know her . true side,' Steven Alexander, Travis Alexander's brother, told ABC. 'And I ask people to please not buy into . this sweet innocent personality that she puts on.' As well as the inconsistencies in her story, Arias' case has been plagued with difficulties with her legal representation. She asked to represent herself but . when she submitted letters to the court that she claimed Alexander had . written - saying he was a pedophile - they were found to be forgeries, and she told a judge she was in 'over her head'. In court: Arias has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder but prosecutors want the death penalty . Her defense team was reinstated but in December 2011, her attorney, Victoria Washington, was granted a motion to withdraw from the case. Jennifer Willmott, a death penalty-qualified defense attorney, had now been assigned to represent Arias. In Jnauary 2012, a judge denied a motion asking for the death penalty to be rejected. Opening statements begin today, January 2. WATCH THE VIDEO HERE . | Jodi Arias 'was obsessed with Travis Alexander, 30, and stalked him after he broke up with her and started dating someone else'
He was stabbed 27 times and was shot in the head in June 2008 .
Arias initially denied seeing him until police discovered naked photos of her on his camera taken on the day of his murder . |
158,318 | 58ad6e28e44f3d5bfcf1e7c3590f014bd725981d | By . Martin Robinson . Claims: Mike Hancock (pictured) has repeatedly denied claims he sent sexy texts and made sexual advances towards a troubled female constituent . A Liberal Democrat MP faces a council investigation after he was accused of sending lewd and suggestive texts to a vulnerable constituent. Mike Hancock is also alleged to have bought clothes and perfume for the single mother, who has since complained about his advances. Portsmouth City . Council, where Mr Hancock is also a councillor, said today it had . decided to refer a complaint against him for formal investigation to see if he broke their code of conduct. The woman’s legal team claim Hancock sent texts to the woman, one of . which is believed to have said: 'Thinking as always of u and missing u. big kiss xxx.' Another allegedly states: 'I miss you sexy. xxx.' Two years ago Hancock's affair with his Russian . researcher Katia Zatulieveter, 27, was exposed. Katia, who worked for Hancock at the . House of Commons, was investigated over claims she was spying for the . Russians. The allegations were never proved. Married father-of-two Hancock, 66, who has served as a councillor for 43 . years and as an MP in two spells totalling 37 years, failed to appear . before the Governance and Standards Assessment Sub Committee at . Portsmouth Guildhall. The MP denies the allegations and refused to discuss it has he left his Hampshire home today. Conservative councillor Donna Jones, who chaired the meeting, said: 'The . case of the complainant will be referred for investigation. 'Michael Lawther (solicitor for Portsmouth City Council), in conjunction . with myself, will be writing to the constituent to advise the outcome.' Probe: Harriet Wistwich (left), solicitor of the defendant spoke to a council committee and members, including chairman Donna Jones (right), agreed to refer the case for investigation . The woman, who has mental health problems, said she wrote to Nick Clegg in March 2011 about her allegations which she claims breach party rules but her letter was ignored. She is now suing him over what she said was a ten-month inappropriate relationship. Harriet Wistrich, solicitor for the alleged victim, said after the meeting: 'We will want to see what investigation it is going to be. 'We will provide them with whatever evidence we can to help with the investigation. The woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, added: “It’s excellent news. 'I think he should be suspended as a councillor and MP.' Hancock, who is recovering from heart surgery, retained his seat in 2010 with a majority of 5,200 votes, but now faces pressure to stand down. The woman said: 'He has tried to get out of appearing for six months saying he is too ill. 'He claims he is too ill to attend yet he has been attending council meetings and parliamentary meetings.' 'It shows disregard for the process. I think it’s disgusting'. Hampshire Police have already investigated the claims of sexual advances but no action was taken against Hancock. Mr Hancock is also a city councillor in Portsmouth and still represents the Liberal Democrats at City Hall . City solicitor Michael Lawther said: 'A sub-committee of Portsmouth City Council today decided to refer a complaint against Cllr Mike Hancock for investigation. 'The governance and audit and standards committee (assessment) sub-committee - made up of three councillors - considered evidence of a breach of the council's code of conduct and decided there was a case to answer. 'They made no judgement as to whether or not there had been a breach. 'I will now appoint an independent lawyer to carry out an investigation. We estimate the investigation will take two or three months. 'If a breach is proved against a councillor, they can be censured for their conduct.' A spokesman for Mike Hancock said: 'There has been a code of conduct complaint against Mike Hancock in his role as a Portsmouth City councillor, which has been considered by the council's assessment committee. 'The committee's role is to assess whether the person was a councillor at the time of the alleged breach of the code and not to investigate the complaint itself. 'There will now be an investigation under the auspices of the city solicitor for the council. 'Mike Hancock vigorously denies that he has broken the code of conduct. 'The allegations have previously been investigated by the police but no further action was taken. 'Mike Hancock will co-operate fully with the investigations of the city council and does not feel it appropriate to comment further. 'In the meantime he is recovering from major heart surgery and will continue to serve his constituents as an MP and a councillor to best of his ability.' Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article. | He is also a city councillor in Portsmouth, where he is being investigated .
One text from MP to single mother alleged to say: 'I miss you sexy. xxx.'
Constituent claims Hancock also bought her clothes and perfume .
Spokesman: MP 'vigorously denies that he has broken the code of conduct' |
91,828 | 02203a2979761d11fb587404aea5f2bc3befd24f | (CNN) -- The Nevada State Board of Nursing has suspended the licenses of two nurses named by police in a criminal investigation of "disrupted" catheter lines at a hospital neonatal intensive care unit, the board's executive director said Wednesday. The two nurses, identified in board documents as Jessica May Rice and Sharon Ochoa-Reyes, have not been arrested or charged with a crime, but the nursing board found that the results of the ongoing police investigation warranted the license suspensions. Nursing board director Debra Scott said that Rice, a nurse for four years, and Ochoa-Reyes, a nurse for 19 years, worked at Las Vegas' Sunrise Hospital, where hospital officials and police had been investigating several incidents in which catheters had been "disrupted." The incidents involved peripherally inserted central catheters, or PICC lines, Sunrise Hospital said in a statement last week. The specialized catheters provide long-term access to a vein and are used to provide nutrition, give medication or draw blood, the statement said. The hospital launched an internal review in February, concentrating on "product performance and staff education," the statement said, and no disruptions were reported for several weeks. After another one occurred, the hospital retained a plastics engineer with an independent lab to evaluate the lines. The facility then discovered that another kind of catheter, an umbilical arterial catheter, also had been disrupted. Such catheters have a low failure rate, the hospital said. Hospital officials increased security and installed cameras as part of their review. They also contacted Las Vegas Metropolitan Police and regulatory agencies, including the Nevada State Board of Nursing and the state Department of Health and Human Services. There were two "unexpected outcomes" involving the infant patients at the unit, the hospital statement said. "One patient required an additional procedure and is currently doing well," the statement said. "The second patient remains in critical condition in the neonatal intensive care unit." Law enforcement officials notified the nursing board last month that Ochoa-Reyes and Rice were part of their investigation into the problems at Sunrise, Scott said. The board took quick action to suspend the women's licenses. According to the legal summary suspension of license documents, police found that the Sunrise incidents involved "intentional patient harm." The documents for each nurse say the board found in both cases that the nurse violated the Nevada Nurse Practice Act, with those violations including engaging "in conduct likely to deceive, defraud or endanger a patient or the general public." The board found that it "would be a danger to the public health, safety or welfare" for the nurses to have unrestricted licenses and that suspension of the licenses required emergency action. Accordingly, the board suspended the licenses. Attempts to reach Ochoa-Reyes and Rice Wednesday evening were unsuccessful. In all, 14 catheters were "disrupted" at the neonatal intensive care unit, the hospital said. A hospital spokeswoman would not provide further comment Wednesday. Police were referring questions to the hospital. | NEW: 1 baby is critical after catheters were "disrupted" in neonatal intensive care unit .
NEW: Hospital conducted an internal review in February .
NEW: Police have determined the incidents involved "intentional patient harm"
Hospital says 14 catheter "disruptions" are reported in unit . |
170,036 | 68111a85137a7c9c1c6622b78a9a176f6d07c854 | Team Sky boss Sir Dave Brailsford wants his riders to cement their place as 'indisputably the best cycling team in the world' by 2020. When Team Sky launched in 2009, Brailsford vowed to produce a British Tour de France winner and he succeeded, as Sir Bradley Wiggins and Chris Froome triumphed in 2012 and 2013. Brailsford is now looking to the next five years and, despite the team notching 165 victories overall since its foundation, he is adamant things can get even better. Chris Froome of Great Britain and Team Sky in action on January 11, 2015 in Alcudia, Spain . Team Sky boss Sir Dave Brailsford insists that his riders have what it takes to be the best in the world by 2020 . 'Where we want to be in 2020 is very simple - we want Team Sky to be indisputably the best cycling team in the world, and to be viewed as one of the very best sports teams in the world,' Brailsford told Press Association Sport. 'We had a clear vision for our first five years - we wanted to win the Tour de France and we wanted to get a million people cycling. We did both. In fact we did it twice with the Tour de France. 'It was a terrific achievement but you don't rest on your laurels, you look back and think actually, we actually could have done better. 'We've closed that chapter - we want to be even better than we were in the first five years and we're hungrier than ever.' | Sir Dave Brailsford believes Team Sky can be the best in the world by 2020 .
Team Sky has produced two Tour de France winners .
Brailsford is looking develop his team over the next five years . |
264,110 | e210c9156baad50284d0258133cd853fbbd92c3e | London, England (CNN) -- British police said Wednesday they have arrested a BBC television presenter on suspicion of murder after he told viewers he carried out a so-called mercy killing on a former lover. Ray Gosling, 70, a freelance broadcaster, admitted on a BBC show aired in central England that he had smothered the unnamed partner in hospital where he was being treated for AIDS. Assisting in another person's death is illegal in England. Police in Nottinghamshire, 160 kilometers (100 miles) north of London, confirmed they had made an arrest after the apparent confession on the BBC's "Inside Out" show. Gosling made his admission in a taped segment of a 30-minute show about death, recounting how he smothered his partner to end his "terrible, terrible pain." He told viewers: "Maybe this is the time to share a secret that I have kept for quite a long time. I killed someone once. "He was a young chap, he'd been my lover and he got AIDS. "In a hospital one hot afternoon, the doctor said 'There's nothing we can do,' and he was in terrible, terrible pain. "I picked up the pillow and smothered him until he was dead. The doctor came back and I said 'He's gone'. Nothing more was ever said." Gosling, who has not revealed details of his former lover's identity or the exact date of the incident, insisted he was not "making a cause" of assisted dying. In a BBC Radio interview he said: "Sometimes doctors do it on their own. Sometimes people do it on their own. "And if it happens to a lover or friend of yours, a husband, a wife, and I hope it doesn't, but when it does sometimes you have to do brave things and you have to say - to use Nottingham language - bugger the law." | Ray Gosling admitted on a television show that he killed his former lover .
Gosling says he had wanted to end the pain of young man with AIDS .
Presenter says he is not trying to "make a cause" of assisted dying . |
274,213 | ef2c80b01fafaccd31e8389a5a2a84943f6cd708 | (CNN) -- The Marussia Formula One team has ruled out a mechanical fault as the cause of a test crash which resulted in its female driver losing her right eye. Maria de Villota was left in a serious condition after colliding with a stationary truck during a test event at a British airfield earlier this month, and needed two operations. The Russian-owned marque has conducted extensive tests of the MR01 car involved in the incident, alongside investigations by British regulator the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and an external forensic body, but concluded a vehicular fault was not to blame. Webber signs one-year contract extension . "We are satisfied that the findings of our internal investigation exclude the car as a factor in the accident," Marussia team principal John Booth said in a statement. "We have shared and discussed our findings with the HSE for their consideration as part of their ongoing investigation. This has been a necessarily thorough process in order to understand the cause of the accident. "We have now concluded our investigatory work and can again focus on the priority, which continues to be Maria's wellbeing. In that regard, we continue to support Maria and the De Villota family in any way we can." De Villota family touched by support . De Villota, who was driving the MR01 for the first time before the crash, is one of only two female drivers contracted to an F1 team. The other, Britain's Susie Wolff, has a development role at Williams. The Spaniard's father Emilio de Villota was also an F1 driver between 1976 and 1982. Marussia will now continue its preparations for this weekend's German Grand Prix at Hockenheim, the 10th race of the 2012 season. | Marussia F1 team rules out car as cause of Maria De Villota's crash .
De Villota lost her right eye following a crash at a test event this month .
The Spaniard needed two operations after hitting a stationary truck .
The 32-year-old is one of just two female drivers contracted to an F1 team . |
230,194 | b616138f051725e897ddaaf3f23bef4aa1d56224 | (CNN) -- Colombian military forces killed 18 leftist guerrillas Friday in two operations, the National Defense Ministry said. Another 13 members of the Colombian Revolutionary Armed Forces (FARC) were captured and two more were "demobilized" in the attacks by the air force and special forces troops, which took place in a rural area of Vista Hermosa in the central department, or administrative district, of Meta. There, air force jets bombarded encampments capable of housing 200 people and belonging to Gang 43 of FARC, the ministry said in a posting on its Web site. After the bombing, special forces troops surrounded the camp and began fighting with the FARC forces. They found 25 rifles, explosives and "information of interest to military intelligence," the posting said. Friday's actions are part of an offensive against FARC in Meta and the southern department of Caqueta to find those people responsible for the death of Gov. Luis Francisco Cuellar, who was kidnapped and killed December 22 in Florence, Colombia, by FARC members, the posting said. "The successes confirm that, in spite of cowardly and sporadic terrorist acts of this organization, the state continues landing serious blows and dismantling what remains of the terrorist structure," Defense Minister Gabriel Silva said. On Wednesday, the army seized 1¾ tons of cocaine in Puerto Escondido in the department of Cordoba, it said. During 2009, the Ministry of Defense reported capturing more than 200 tons of cocaine worth $5 billion. For its part, the national army reported in its annual report that during 2009 it was involved in 1,200 fights that "permitted the neutralization of 1,348 terrorist actions and the occupation and destruction of 1,172 encampments, many of which were used as laboratories to process cocaine. FARC has been at war with the Colombian government for more than 40 years. Although the government says the FARC's military force has been severely compromised in recent months, authorities still accuse it of trafficking huge quantities of cocaine to finance its insurgency. Security analysts say FARC has about 9,000 to 12,000 armed guerillas and several thousand supporters, mostly in rural areas. The guerrilla group was established in 1964 as the military wing of the Colombian Communist Party. The guerrillas operate mostly in Colombia but have carried out extortion, kidnappings and other activities in Venezuela, Panama and Ecuador, according to the Federation of American Scientists Intelligence Resource Program. | Colombian military: 18 leftist guerrillas killed in two operations .
Air force and special forces attacked FARC in Meta department, military says .
Military: 1¾ tons of cocaine seized Wednesday in Cordoba department .
More than 200 tons of cocaine worth $5 billion seized in 2009, military reports . |
62,572 | b1be8a8a2190f1f5515e24680a017e541406e25c | By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 01:15 EST, 6 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 04:19 EST, 6 December 2013 . These brave gulls seem to have rather foolishly picked the wrong place to rest while playing in the Atlantic. Circling the open jaws of a 30-ton whale they look to be ruling the waves as they playfully flock and surround the giant. One particularly plucky fellow even takes a rest atop his nose, in these pictures, captured off the U.S. These brave gulls seem to have rather foolishly picked the wrong place to rest while playing in the Atlantic . But with a snap of his almighty jaws the angry whale blows his top - literally - and shows the bird who is really boss of the ocean. These pictures show the flock of herring gulls as they swoop around the whale, trying to snatch fish from its mouth, off the coast of Massachusetts. Whales trap fish by blowing bubbles around them to stop them escaping. Circling the open jaws of a 30-ton whale they look to be ruling the waves as they playfully flock and surround the giant . One particularly plucky fellow even takes a rest atop his nose, in these pictures, captured off the U.S. east coast . By cleverly blowing air at depths of 600ft, they create a bubble net that traps their prey near the surface. Humpbacks . can weigh two tons at birth and grow to more than 45ft and 40 tons when . full size, and need to consume around 3,000lbs of food a day. They can dive for up to 45 minutes, reach depths of 600ft and blow out air from their blowholes at speeds of 300mph. But with a snap of his almighty jaws the angry whale blows his top - literally - and shows the bird who is really boss of the ocean . These pictures show the flock of herring gulls as they swoop around the whale, trying to snatch fish from its mouth, near Massachusetts . Their . lungs can hold 2,500 gallons of air. Every humpback can be identified . from the unique marking on the underside of its tail. Once . under threat from whaling ships, thanks to laws protecting them the . humpback whale population is now increasing each year, with current . world numbers estimated to be more than 60,000. | The gulls were snapped circling the open jaws of a 30-ton whale .
With a snap of jaws - angry whale blows his top showing them who is boss .
Pictures show flock of herring gulls as they swoop off east coast of U.S. |
240,394 | c332c2d14799018537520d36f90e7d30f917b4a3 | A person has returned negative results for Ebola, after being put in isolation at Sydney Airport when they came back from West Africa and reported having a low-grade temperature. The person - who has not been identified by name, age or gender - flew into Australia from Sierra Leone on Wednesday morning. NSW Acting Chief Health Officer Dr Jeremy McAnulty said the patient was not a risk factor for Ebola. A person has been put in isolation at Sydney Airport after they flew in from West Africa on Wednesday . The person, who was transferred to Westmead Hospital for further expert clinical assessment, will be released on Christmas Eve . The person is due to be released from hospital after results of two tests proved negative for Ebola. NSW Health say the person hasn't experienced any further fever. Experts are satisfied with the results as say no further testing is required. 'The person has no other significant symptoms, appears otherwise well and reports no risk factors for Ebola virus,' Dr McAnulty said. 'In line with protocol, precautionary measures are being taken.' The person, who was transferred to Westmead Hospital for further expert clinical assessment, will be released on Christmas Eve and will be monitored for up to three weeks from now. | Person who flew in from Sierra Leone put in isolation on Wednesday .
They arrived at Sydney Airport and reported a low-grade temperature .
The person was transported to Westmead Hospital for monitoring and will be released on Christmas Eve .
NSW Health say the patient was not a risk factor for Ebola . |
114,403 | 1fa0d25fee24552dc56738f851ee7725fde77a1a | Sam Burgess said an emotional farewell to his girlfriend Phoebe Hooke and brother Luke as the new Bath signing left Sydney for the UK to start his rugby union career as a centre for the Aviva Premiership club. It was an emotional day for all involved as Burgess said goodbye to his loved ones at the airport. Fortunately for the injured star, his Australian girlfriend Hooke will be joining him in Bath in a couple of weeks. Luke, meanwhile, will remain Down Under playing for the South Sydney Rabbitohs - the club his brother Sam has just left. Scroll down for video . Sam Burgess (right) said goodbye to older brother Luke and girlfriend Phoebe Hooke at Sydney Airport . Burgess and his girlfriend Hooke were sad to part from one another on Tuesday . Burgess fractured his cheekbone and eye socket during South Sydney's NRL grand final win earlier this month, but hopes to be back in action soon. Pointing to the nasty scar under his eye where the surgeon had to enter to get to his cheekbone he said: 'It's alright, it's healed up pretty well. It's two and a half weeks post surgery.' Hooke admitted: 'There were a few sponge baths' after the nasty injury. The 25-year-old Burgess went on to reveal that he was feeling 'a bit of a weird' about the move but said, 'once I get on the flight I should be OK.' The two brothers embraced before Burgess jetted off on a flight to the UK to join his new club Bath . Burgess holds hands with his girlfriend, and the pair will be reunited in a couple of weeks . Hooke will fly to Bath in two weeks time to join boyfriend Burgess as he begins his rugby union career . Burgess said his loved ones are excited for him joining Aviva Premiership side Bath . Burgess fractured his cheekbone and eye socket during South Sydney's NRL grand final win earlier this month . The Bath star celebrates with Russell Crowe after the Rabbitohs won the NRL Grand Final match in Sydney . Hooke admitted that 'there were a few sponge baths' as Sam recovered from his on-pitch clash . Burgess poses after being awarded rugby league's International Player of the Year award last week . | Sam Burgess left Australia to fly to the UK to join new club Bath .
The former rugby league player quit South Sydney Rabbitohs to sign for English rugby union outfit Bath .
Burgess's girlfriend Phoebe Hooke will join him in Bath in two weeks .
The 25-year-old fractured his cheekbone and eye socket during South Sydney's NRL grand final win earlier this month .
Bath lost 21-19 at home to Toulouse on Saturday . |
156,467 | 564958760e621a9724c4a8a57065c6f8928b93c0 | We last knew her as a retired grandmother-of-eight, the surprise winner of The Great British Bake Off. But it seems Nancy Birtwhistle has undergone a remarkable transformation in the months since her victory. The 60-year-old – dubbed ‘Gadget Gran’ because of her ingenious home-made kitchen implements – showed off an unexpectedly glamorous side in a new glossy magazine photoshoot. Nancy Birtwhistle, 60, (pictured) is a retired grandmother-of-eight and the surprise winner of The Great British Bake Off - she has recently undergone a glossy makeover for a women's magazine interview . Posing for Woman & Home magazine, she revealed she has started paying more attention to her grooming after winning the BBC1 show, treating herself to professional blow dries, wearing false eyelashes and even engaging the services of a professional beautician. And she said she ‘loves’ the attention her new-found fame has brought her so much she regularly stops in the street to have ‘selfies’ taken with her fans. Mrs Birtwhistle’s new found confidence and glamour is a far cry from the unassuming character who won Bake Off just two months ago. She said: ‘I don’t know what the definition of celebrity is, but I’ve loved life since winning Bake Off. I get to do glamorous photoshoots like this, talk at events, such as the Cake & Bake show, and I even get recognised in the street. Her new found confidence and glamour is far cry from unassuming character who won Bake Off (pictured) Mrs Birtwhistle revealed she has started paying more attention to her grooming after winning the BBC1 show, treating herself to professional blow dries, wearing false eyelashes and visiting a professional beautician . ‘Some people just do a double take, while others will come over and say, “I know you from somewhere, I can’t think where it is.” Then there’s the avid Bake Off fans who know straight away and take selfies with me. It’s bizarre but great fun.’ Mrs Birtwhistle is a retired GP practice manager and lives with her husband Tim, 63, in Barton-upon-Humber, Lincolnshire. She admitted she has started paying more attention to her appearance since winning Bake Off, including wearing false eyelashes. She said: ‘When they first put false eyelashes on me on Bake Off, I felt ridiculous but now I love them. 'I’ve discovered you can get subtle individual lashes that are less obvious than the big things you wear on television, so now I have a beautician come round every three to four weeks and redo them. Mrs Birtwhistle (centre) pictured with Luis Troyano (left) and Richard Burr (right) - she was crowned champion of this year's Great British Bake Off with a surprise win over Richard, who had been the hot favourite . ‘It’s great because I don’t have to worry about wearing eye make-up anymore.’ Mrs Birtwhistle said she ‘hates’ shopping for clothes but is ‘addicted’ to scarves, with a collection of around 50 in her wardrobe. Her husband – who made a kitchen implement out of a drainpipe that helped her construct her Bake Off showstopper – even made a special tie rack to hang them on. And she now prefers to get her hair washed and dried professionally rather than do it herself. She said: ‘I hate drying my hair so I rarely wash it myself. For the full interview see the January issue of Woman & Home (pictured) which is on sale now . 'I go down to the local salon and treat myself to a blow-dry once a week instead. 'That’s my one indulgence. Well, that and the false eyelashes.’ While she may be known for her skills in the kitchen, Mrs Birtwhistle said she has a surprising fondness for shop-bought, ready-made Chicken Kiev, which she eats with chips and salad. And perhaps surprisingly for a woman her age, she is now hooked on Twitter. She said: ‘I joined just before Bake off went on air and I went from zero to more than 21,000 followers in a matter of weeks. ‘I used to think people spent too much time on their phones, but I can understand it now. 'It’s highly addictive.’ Mrs Birtwhistle now hopes to bring out a cookery book and start a new career in baking. She said: ‘I used to be Tim’s PA, so I’m enjoying having him as my helper now. 'He’s been fielding all my phone calls, emails, letters and requests. ‘Women should have equal rights and equal pay, and I hate to see men trying to dominate women. 'However, I do still believe in old-fashioned chivalry so I’m not sure I can call myself a true feminist. 'I still want a man to give up his seat for me.’ For the full interview see the January issue of Woman & Home, on sale now. | Nancy Birtwhistle underwent a makeover for a magazine photoshoot .
Dubbed 'Gadget Gran' by GBBO fans because of her home-made tools .
Revealed she has started paying more attention to grooming after winning . |
157,186 | 5739b652b18983f49d4db459a7e26feb1ffcfd8b | At first glance, it looks uncannily like an image of the human brain. But in fact, this is the death of one of the first stars in our Universe. Researchers say the death throes of these early stars were unique as they exploded as supernovae and burned completely, leaving no black hole behind, but instead spewing out chemical elements into space that eventually formed our Universe. This image is a slice through the interior of a supermassive star of 55,500 solar masses. It shows the inner helium core in which nuclear burning is converting helium to oxygen, powering various fluid instabilities, which form the swirling lines. This 'snapshot' from a simulation shows one moment a day after the onset of the explosion, when the radius of the outer circle would be slightly larger than that of the orbit of the Earth around the sun. To model the life of a primordial supermassive star, Chen and his colleagues used a one-dimensional stellar evolution code called KEPLER. This code takes into account key processes like nuclear burning and stellar convection. They found that primordial stars between 55,000 to 56,000 solar masses live about 1.69 million years before becoming unstable due to general relativistic effects and then start to collapse. The images look similar to scans of a human brain . As the star collapses, it begins to rapidly synthesize heavy elements like oxygen, neon, magnesium and silicon starting with helium in its core. This process releases more energy than the binding energy of the star, halting the collapse and causing a massive explosion: a supernova. To model the death mechanisms of these stars, Chen and his colleagues used CASTRO—a multidimensional compressible astrophysics code developed at Berkeley Lab by scientists Ann Almgren and John Bell. Certain primordial stars—those between 55,000 and 56,000 times the mass of our Sun, or solar masses—may have died unusually, the team concluded. Astrophysicists at the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) and the University of Minnesota came to this conclusion after running a number of supercomputer simulations at the Department of Energy's (DOE's) National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center (NERSC) and Minnesota Supercomputing Institute at the University of Minnesota. They relied extensively on CASTRO, a compressible astrophysics code developed at DOE's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory's (Berkeley Lab's) Computational Research Division (CRD). Their findings were recently published in Astrophysical Journal (ApJ). First-generation stars are especially interesting because they produced the first heavy elements, or chemical elements other than hydrogen and helium. In death, they sent their chemical creations into outer space, paving the way for subsequent generations of stars, solar systems and galaxies. With a greater understanding of how these first stars died, scientists hope to glean some insights about how the Universe, as we know it today, came to be. 'We found that there is a narrow window where supermassive stars could explode completely instead of becoming a supermassive black hole—no one has ever found this mechanism before,' says Ke-Jung Chen, a postdoctoral researcher at UCSC and lead author of the ApJ paper. 'Without NERSC resources, it would have taken us a lot longer to reach this result. 'From a user perspective, the facility is run very efficiently and it is an extremely convenient place to do science.' To model the life of a primordial supermassive star, Chen and his colleagues used a one-dimensional stellar evolution code called KEPLER. This code takes into account key processes like nuclear burning and stellar convection. And relevant for massive stars, photo-disintegration of elements, electron-positron pair productionand special relativistic effects. The team also included general relativistic effects, which are important for stars above 1,000 solar masses. They found that primordial stars between 55,000 to 56,000 solar masses live about 1.69 million years before becoming unstable due to general relativistic effects and then start to collapse. As the star collapses, it begins to rapidly synthesize heavy elements like oxygen, neon, magnesium and silicon starting with helium in its core. This process releases more energy than the binding energy of the star, halting the collapse and causing a massive explosion: a supernova. To model the death mechanisms of these stars, Chen and his colleagues used CASTRO—a multidimensional compressible astrophysics code developed at Berkeley Lab by scientists Ann Almgren and John Bell. These simulations show that once collapse is reversed, Rayleigh-Taylor instabilities mix heavy elements produced in the star's final moments throughout the star itself. To model the life of a primordial supermassive star, Chen and his colleagues used a one-dimensional stellar evolution code called KEPLER. This code takes into account key processes like nuclear burning and stellar convection. These images show the simulation in action, tracking the spread of chemical compounds. The researchers say that this mixing should create a distinct observational signature that could be detected by upcoming near-infrared experiments such as the European Space Agency's Euclid and NASA's Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope. Depending on the intensity of the supernovae, some supermassive stars could, when they explode, enrich their entire host galaxy and even some nearby galaxies with elements ranging from carbon to silicon. In some cases, supernova may even trigger a burst of star formation in its host galaxy, which would make it visually distinct from other young galaxies. 'My work involves studying the supernovae of very massive stars with new physical processes beyond hydrodynamics, so I've collaborated with Ann Almgren to adapt CASTRO for many different projects over the years,' says Chen. 'Before I run my simulations, I typically think about the physics I need to solve a particular problem. I then work with Ann to develop some code and incorporate it into CASTRO. It is a very efficient system.' To visualize his data, Chen used an open source tool called VisIt, which was architected by Hank Childs, formerly a staff scientist at Berkeley Lab. 'Most of the time I did my own visualizations, but when there were things that I needed to modify or customize I would shoot Hank an email and that was very helpful.' Chen completed much of this work while he was a graduate student at the University of Minnesota. He completed his Ph.D. in physics in 2013. | Primordial stars between 55,000 and 56,000 times the mass of our Sun died unusually .
Exploded as supernovae and burned completely, leaving no remnant black hole behind .
Stars spewed out chemical elements into space that eventually formed our Universe . |
176,000 | 6fd46ea49337f870aff480f288615337e126ba0d | By . Tom Kelly and Steve Doughty and NICHOLA JONES . Last updated at 3:44 PM on 22nd October 2011 . Surrounded by smoke and flames from Luftwaffe bombs, the image of St Paul’s rising above the scarred London skyline became a symbol of the nation’s Blitz Spirit. But on Friday a rag-tag group of anti-capitalist protesters camping on its doorstep achieved what even Hitler’s bombers only once managed to achieve – and forced the cathedral to shut. Dean Rev Graeme Knowles said the decision to close until further notice was made with ‘heavy hearts’ after the makeshift camp on its steps doubled in size during the past week. Disruption: Anti-capitalists continue to camp outside St Paul's despite the cathedral announcing it will have to close for the first time in 72 years due to the protest . Rows of multi coloured tents surround the Cathedral which closed indefinitely at 5pm on Friday . Protesters gather for a meeting in front of St Paul's Cathedral on Friday alongside the media following the closure announcement . Closing: Dean of St Paul's Cathedral, The Right Reverend Graham Knowles announces he is concerned about fire hazards . The protesters couldn't stop a wedding taking place at St Paul's today. Natasha Ighodaro arrived at the cathedral to marry Nick Cunningham - against a backdrop of dozens of tents and a banner reading 'capitalism is crisis'. The bride, a University of York graduate, appeared to put on a brave face and smiled at onlookers as she walked in through a side entrance as police stood by. Just yards away, the front steps of St Paul's were teaming with protesters who have vowed to stay put for the immediate future. Earlier, bride and groom were forced to reassure their guests that the ceremony would go ahead despite the action. In a message posted on Facebook, they wrote: 'We're looking forward to seeing friends and family at the wedding today, and are pleased that it is going ahead as planned. love Nick Cunningham and Natasha Ighodaro xxx'. This followed an upbeat message last night which stated: 'For anyone who is worried about tomorrow - don't be. The recent announcement doesn't affect us; it just means that we have run of the house :) xxxx.' Ahead of the service, ushers insisted Miss Ighodaro, an account manager for a PR company, was not concerned by disruption. 'She just wants to enjoy her day - if she ever gets here,' one joked. He blamed ‘health and safety’ concerns . caused by the Occupy London Stock Exchange movement, which has been . located in Paternoster Square since Saturday after being barred from the . Stock Exchange. And he begged the activists – who include teachers, social workers, . mothers with children and an extra from Downton Abbey – to leave what . has become known as ‘Camp Crusty’. The continuing disruption has seen the cathedral’s earlier act of . charity backfire. On Sunday, defending the rights of the protesters, . Canon Chancellor the Rev Giles Fraser had asked police to leave and even . invited the demonstrators in to worship. On Friday night religious leaders described the decision to close the cathedral as a ‘tragedy’. But as the doors were locked after Friday's 3.30pm service, . protesters remained defiant – and thousands more are expected to descend . on the site on Saturday. St Paul’s was shut for just four days during the Blitz while Royal . Engineers defused a time-delayed bomb that had hit the cathedral. Mr Knowles, who has been forced to cancel a visit to America, said the decision to close it again was ‘unprecedented’. He said: ‘I have written an open letter to the protesters this afternoon . advising them that we have no lawful alternative but to close St Paul’s . Cathedral until further notice. 'Health, safety and fire officers have . pointed out that access to the cathedral is seriously limited. 'With so . many stoves and fires and lots of different types of fuel around, there . is a very clear fire hazard. ‘Then there is the public health aspect which indeed speaks for itself. The dangers relate not just to cathedral staff and to visitors but are a . potential hazard to those encamped themselves. ‘We have done this with a very heavy heart, but it is simply not . possible to fulfil our day-to-day obligations to worshippers, visitors . and pilgrims in current circumstances. ‘I am asking the protesters to recognise the huge issues facing us at . this time and asking them to leave the vicinity of the building so that . the cathedral can reopen as soon as possible. ‘I hope that the protesters will understand the issues we are facing, . recognise that their voice has been legitimately heard, and withdraw . peacefully.’ He said the cathedral defended the right to protest but would like to use the building for its intended use. The cathedral is one of London’s best loved tourist attractions and draws up to 3,000 worshippers each Sunday. Canon Peter Bruinvels, a member of the Church of England’s . parliament, the General Synod, said: ‘This is a tragedy. Clearly now the . demonstrators should pack up their tents and go. St Paul’s is a greater . cause then theirs and they should acknowledge that. ‘The cathedral is losing £20,000 for every day it is shut. It gets no state support. It cannot afford to be shut.’ Clergy at the cathedral have insisted that no welcome was given to the . demonstrators and that their aim when the Occupy London Stock Exchange . movement arrived – targeting the nearby Stock Exchange rather than the . cathedral – was to avoid confrontation and violence. People listen to an economics talk held at the so-called 'Star Books Occupation Library' setup by Occupy London Stock Exchange protesters directly outside a branch of the Starbucks coffee chain . Activists' tents fill the area in front of St Paul's and more are expected to join at the weekend . Protesters play music on the steps of St Paul's Cathedral ahead of the Cathedral closing its doors for the first time in living memory . An activist eats in his tent at the Occupy London camp next to St Paul's Cathedral. Right Reverend Graeme Knowles said the decision to close the Cathedral was made with a 'heavy heart' The St Paul’s protest is already bearing the hallmarks of a more . permanent set-up and is now home to a mobile library, a meditation . centre and even solar panels. A delivery of portable toilets is expected . in the next 24 hours. Protester George Barda said: ‘I think this is an appallingly unchristian . decision and I personally think it would be a big mistake for us to . leave here. 'This is completely unnecessary and I believe a commercially . driven decision.’ Demonstrators camp seen from the steps outside St Paul's Cathedral which has asked protesters to withdraw peacefully . The Right Reverend Graeme Knowles, Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral, issued the following statement today . Thank you for coming today. It seems a very long time since the protestors arrived around the Cathedral last weekend and I want to stress at the outset that we have listened to them and indeed developed a conversation with them. We are delighted that the London protests have been peaceful and indeed there has been a good atmosphere generally between Cathedral staff and those dwelling in the tents around St Paul’s. There is something profound about protest being made and heard in front of this most holy place: a gathering together of those concerned about poverty and inequality facing the great Dome of this Cathedral Church. You actually have to be here to witness it for yourself because the extent of feeling and protest is not easily translated via media in that sense. But it is about the practical and safety issues which this peaceful protest has raised which I need to address with you today. It should be obvious to anyone approaching the Cathedral that the size of the camp and the consequent compliance issues which it inevitably raises, has increasingly put us in a difficult position. Last night, I met with members of the Chapter to discuss some of these key issues. As the week has gone on, and in a statement we issued earlier this week, we intimated how difficult the situation was becoming. As a result of that meeting, and reports received today from our independent Health, Safety and Fire officers, I have written an open letter to the protestors this afternoon advising them that we have no lawful alternative but to close St Paul’s Cathedral until further notice. I have here copies of the letter clearly outlining the reasons we have had to take this dramatic course of action which I will ask my colleagues to distribute. The Health, Safety and Fire officers have pointed out that access to and from the Cathedral is seriously limited. With so many stoves and fires and lots of different types of fuel around, there is a clear fire hazard. Then there is the public health aspect which speaks for itself. The dangers relate not just to Cathedral staff and visitors but are a potential hazard to those encamped themselves. The decision to close St Paul’s Cathedral is unprecedented in modern times and I have asked the Registrar to implement emergency procedures whereby the building remains closed but fit for purpose until such a time that we can open safely. Our 200 staff and 100 volunteers are also being informed of this decision this afternoon. I want to say two simple things at this point. 1) We have done this with a very heavy heart, but it is simply not possible to fulfil our day to day obligations to worshippers, visitors and pilgrims in current circumstances.2) That all of the Chapter are at one on this and recognise the complexities of the issues facing us at this time. As you can see in the open letter, I am asking the protestors to recognise the huge issues facing us at this time and asking them to leave the vicinity of the building so that the Cathedral can re-open as soon as possible. So many people who visit this great Cathedral come here, of course, because they love the Gospel of justice, peace and reconciliation [which some of the protestors are embracing for a whole host of reasons] , but also because they want to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of a place of prayer and pilgrimage. Some will rightly say that the Church should be alongside those seeking equality and financial probity. We are. The debate about a more just society is at the heart of much of our work at St Paul’s and indeed we hope to contribute to the wider debate in the very near future through a Report from the St Paul’s Institute. But today is about our ability, practically, to carry on our mission with free and open access to this public space and treasured place and I hope that the protestors will understand the issues we are facing, recognise that their voice has been legitimately heard, and withdraw peacefully. Iconic: This image of St Paul's during the Blitz has become a symbol of survival... but the house of worship has closed for the first time in living memory . | Cathedral Dean asks protesters to pack up and go home .
Safety of tourists and worshippers 'at risk'
Number of tents outside Cathedral increases to more than 200 . |
232,171 | b8a5a290c6bd08be96e8ded67f00af1f8897b35d | By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 06:46 EST, 23 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 21:02 EST, 23 January 2014 . The BBC has decided to move Rod McKenzie the long-serving editor of Newsbeat, its youth news service, after complaints he bullied staff . The BBC has decided to move the long-serving editor of Newsbeat, its youth news service, after complaints he bullied staff. The allegations involving Rod McKenzie stretch over two decades. He is accused of having favourites in his team and to have ‘frozen out’ those he did not like. It is also claimed that he shouted at some employees in front of other staff. Mr McKenzie has denied the claims during a BBC disciplinary procedure that has lasted for almost a year. Sources close to him believe he has been the victim of a social media campaign. According to sources within the BBC, the number of bullying complaints made against Mr McKenzie, who is likely to be on a salary of more than £100,000 a year, are in the double digits but less than 30. Mr McKenzie, who was editor of 1Xtra News as well Radio 1’s award-winning Newsbeat service, has not been sacked, but he is expected to be given another post outside the news division of the corporation. It is understood that Mr McKenzie has been given a final written warning and is taking one month’s leave. The allegations surrounding Mr McKenzie come days after it emerged that eight BBC staff were disciplined for bullying or sexual harassment in the first nine months of last year but only one was dismissed. News chief: Mr McMenzie with BBC radio presenters Simon Mayo and Chris Moyles . BBC radio boss Rod McKenzie has been moved roles following 'bullying' claims . ‘It’s not the case that there is no room for bullies at the BBC,’ said one source. ‘There are just different places for them.’ The . complaints against Mr McKenzie formed part of a review last year led by . Dinah Rose QC into allegations of bullying and other forms of . harassment at the BBC. The corporation is under pressure to address . internal bullying after her review received submissions from 930 . people. A source close to Mr McKenzie said: ‘He strongly rejects . these claims and maintains that his behaviour is entirely in keeping . with a pressurised news environment.’ He is said to be pleased that . some of the ‘most lurid’ claims about him were not upheld. He is . believed to have disputed that he had favourites, arguing that ‘a . favourite is a high achiever by another name’. The BBC’s disciplinary . process did not uphold claims against Mr McKenzie that he brought . prejudices to the process of deciding which members of staff lost their . positions as part of the BBC’s Delivering Quality First efficiency . savings process. A BBC spokesman said: ‘We do not discuss internal staff . or disciplinary issues.’ Mr McKenzie had been tipped to be the new controller of BBC Radio 5 Live based in Salford . McKenzie, pictured front row fourth from the left, with former Radio One DJs to celebrate the station's 25th anniversary in 1992 . | Rod McKenzie faced allegations from 'more than 30' members of staff .
It is claimed his behaviour was typical of a 'pressurised news environment'
Mr McKenzie had been tipped to be the new controller at BBC Radio 5 Live . |
137,187 | 3d75d93c7024704a8eb43d6ea333bc3e91cf2d64 | Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (CNN) -- A Malaysian court has ruled that an Iranian man suspected of being involved with a series of bombs that went off in Bangkok in February can be extradited to Thailand. Masoud Sedaghatzadeh is wanted by the Thai authorities for his alleged involvement in the Bangkok blasts along with several other Iranians. It is not yet clear when Sedaghatzadeh will be extradited, as he plans to file an application to a higher court in Malaysia, seeking his release from prison. The explosions in Bangkok did not cause any deaths, but the Thai authorities have said they were intended for Israeli diplomats. The devices used explosive materials that are not available in Thailand and were most likely smuggled in, the police have said. The Bangkok blasts came a day after a device attached to an Israeli Embassy van in New Delhi exploded, and another device, found on an embassy car in Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, was safety detonated. Israeli officials blamed Iran for the attacks, but Tehran has denied the accusations. On Monday, the Malaysian judge, Justice S.M Komathy Suppiah, ruled that Sedaghatzadeh be remanded in prison for as many as 15 days, pending an extradition order from the Minister of Home Affairs. "In my view, the conduct of the respondent is inconsistent with that of an innocent man," she said, referring to Sedaghatzadeh. "I'm allowing the application for extradition and the respondent is to be detained in prison pending an order from the minister for his render." The Malaysian prosecutor, Kamal Baharin Omar, said Sedaghatzadeh, 31, was arrested at Kuala Lumpur airport on February 15, a day after one of the bombs went off at a house in Bangkok. Mr. Kamal said the Thai police had CCTV footage showing Sedaghatzadeh entering and leaving the house where the explosives were detonated. He questioned why Sedaghatzadeh would leave the house and flee to Kuala Lumpur if he was not connected to the explosives. "All the actions subsequent to the explosion do not show the innocence of the respondent," he said. Sedaghatzadeh's lawyer, Mohamad Nashir Hussin, argued that the Thai police had not been able to show that the respondent was involved in the incident. "There's no evidence that the respondent had any contact or had even seen the explosives in the house," he said. Sedaghatzadeh, who was handcuffed and dressed in a polo shirt and jeans, told the court that he would file a habeas corpus, an application asking to be released from prison. "I require more time to defend myself," he said through a translator. The Thai authorities have detained two Iranian suspects in the case: Saeid Moradi, 28, whose legs were blown off by his own bomb; and Mohammad Khazaei, 42, who was taken into custody at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport as he tried to board a plane to Malaysia. Both are being held at a Bangkok prison until their next court appearance. They and Sedaghatzadeh face charges that include joint assembly of explosive devices, joint possession of explosive devices without permits and causing an explosion injuring other persons. Moradi also faces charges of attempted killing of state officials on duty and the intentional attempted killing of other persons. Two other suspects in the case are still at large, according to Gen. Pansiri Prapawat, the deputy national police chief who is heading the investigation into the bombings. They are Nikkahfard Javad, a 52-year-old Iranian man, and Rohani Leila, an Iranian woman. Thailand has issued an arrest warrant for the suspects and sent their names to Interpol's wanted list, Pansiri said. | The Iranian suspect is wanted by the Thai authorities in relation to a string of blasts in Bangkok .
Masoud Sedaghatzadeh was arrested in Kuala Lumpur a day after the bombings .
A judge rules he can be extradited, but Sedaghatzadeh plans to apply to be released .
Two other Iranian suspects are being held in Thailand, while two more are still at large . |
127,593 | 30eca0b42ebed4069ea4098689da0840dfa97d16 | (CNN) -- Serena and Venus Williams reached the finals of different tournaments for the first time since 1999 Friday as the most famous sister double act in sport warmed up for the opening grand slam of the season. Top-ranked Serena continued her domination of the women's game with a straight sets win over arch- rival Maria Sharapova to reach the Brisbane final, while 33-year-old Venus has reached the title match in Auckland. She benefited from a walkover when fifth seed Jamie Hampton was forced to withdraw before the start of their semifinal with a hip injury. Venus, herself blighted by Sjorgen's Syndrome and other injuries since 2011, will play Ana Ivanovic of Serbia in a battle of former No.1s. Ivanovic showed glimpses of her old form with a 6-0 7-3 win over Belgian Kirsten Flipkens to set up a dream final for the organizers. Likewise in Brisbane, Serena will play second-ranked Victoria Azarenka, who needed over two hours to get past fourth seed Jelena Jankovic, 1-6 6-3 6-4. After a slow start, Azarenka from Belarus, was able to get on top, racing to a 5-1 lead in the decider and then repelling a late Jankovic rally. "It wasn't the best execution, but she was playing some really good tennis out there today," she told the official WTA Tour website. Williams was also extended by third seed Sharapova, who is returning to the WTA Tour after shoulder problems. She took the opener 6-3 but had to recover from 3-1 down in a marathon 68-minute second set to win the tiebreaker 9-7 and progress to the final. 17-time grand slam champion Williams said she was looking forward to locking horns again with Azarenka after splitting four meetings last season. "She's so intense on court, and off court she's so cool," she said. "When you step on the court I don't know her and she doesn't know me, and we fight like crazy. When it's over, it's over. There's a lot of mutual respect there," she admitted. Williams will be looking to wrest the Australian Open title later this month from defending champion Azarenka so Saturday's title match will be an important marker. She and Venus contested eight grand slam finals between them in their heyday, with Serena winning six of them, as the pair dominated the women's game in the early years of the century. | No.1 Serena Williams reaches Brisbane final .
Beats Maria Sharapova in straight sets .
Plays second-ranked Victoria Azarenka in final .
Venus Williams progresses to title match in Auckland . |
91,202 | 014fb5e4ac2aaf55cf5cafa563420de3d1a42864 | Fugitive mixed martial arts fighter War Machine has been arrested in California, a week after police say he brutally assaulted his ex-girlfriend in Las Vegas. US marshals announced Friday they've captured the 32-year-old named in Simi Valley. He was booked into Ventura County Jail while he awaits extradition to Nevada. Simi Valley police said in a release they worked with US marshals and found the fugitive inside an Extended Stay America shortly before 2pm. Scroll down for video . War Machine was captured outisde a Los Angeles hotel where he was found hiding with only a small amount of cash and some pizza . Porn star Christy Mack released these horrific images of her injuries from the hospital, claiming they were sustained when she was assaulted by former boyfriend and MMA fighter Jon Koppenhaver . Captured: War Machine, born Jon Koppenhaver, allegedly assaulted ex-girlfriend Christy Mack . They also said his hotel room contained 'a small quantity of cash and some pizza.' KTLA reported that the fighter was tasered. 'And they were like banging on the door, trying to get it open, and . they’re like, "Open the door, open the door,"' Nicole Blankenship told the affiliate station. 'Finally when they got it open they yelled, ‘Gun,’ and then all of a . sudden you see them shoot him with a Taser. And he got shot with a Taser . and he went down to the floor, and then they handcuffed him.' A witness called police after Koppenhaver called attention to himself in a physical altercation with a woman at the hotel, KTLA reported. Officers . say the fighter, whose birth name is Jon Koppenhaver, is the primary . suspect in a dispute that left his ex-girlfriend and her friend with . serious injuries. Adult film actress Christy Mack says he knocked out her teeth, broke her bones and sheared off her hair in the Aug. 8 attack. The welterweight fighter has had previous run-ins with the law and missed two years of his career while he spent time in jail. Mack . wrote an account of the night that ended with her in the hospital and . her ex-boyfriend on the run from police, as well as releasing pictures . of her brutal injuries. Beating: Mack said in a statement War Machine brutally attacked her and threatened to rape her . Mack said that not only did Koppenhaver beat her, but that he also attacked her with a knife stabbing her repeatedly before the blade broke off . 'About 2 a.m. Friday morning, Jon . Koppenhaver arrived unannounced to my home in Las Vegas, NV, after he . broke up with me in May he moved out of my house and back to San Diego,' Mack wrote on Twitter. 'When he arrived, he found myself and one other fully clothed and unarmed . in the house. Without a single word spoken, he began beating my friend; . once he was finished, he sent my friend away and turned his attention . to me. 'He made me undress and shower in front of him, then dragged me . out and beat my face. I have . no recollection of how many times I was hit, I just know my injuries . that resulted from my beating. My injuries include 18 broken bones . around my eyes, my nose is broken in 2 places, I am missing teeth and . several more are broken.' Mack went on to write that she was unable to see from her left eye or chew or speak clearly because of her damaged teeth. She also said she could not walk on her own, and had a fractured rib and ruptured liver from a kick to her side. 'I also attained several lesions from a knife he got from my kitchen,' she wrote. 'He pushed the knife into me in some areas such as my hand, ear, and head. He also sawed much of my hair off with this dull knife. Mack writes that she made her escape when Koppenhaver went into her kitchen where she assumed he was searching for a new knife . Mack said that Koppenhaver had long been abusive in their relationship but that this beating had made her fear for her life . 'After some time, the knife broke off of the handle and continued to threaten me with the blade. I believed I was going to die. He has beaten me many times before, but never this badly. He took my phone and cancelled all of my plans for the following week to make sure no one would worry about my whereabouts.' Mack also alleged her ex-boyfriend threatened to rape her. 'He told me he was going to rape me, but was disappointed in himself when he could not get hard. After another hit or two, he left me on the floor bleeding and shaking, holding my side from the pain of my rib.' Mack writes that she made her escape when Koppenhaver went into her kitchen where she assumed he was searching for a new knife. 'I ran out my back door, shutting it . behind me so the dogs didn't run inside to tip him off. I hoped the . fence to the golf course behind my house and ran to a neighboring house. Naked and afraid he would catch me, I kept running through the . neighborhood knocking on doors. Finally one answered and I was brought . to the hospital and treated for my injuries.' Mack concluded that she had been living in fear of Koppenhaver for months, and that the pair had an abusive relationship in which she dealt with beatings and infidelity in the past. Tainted love: Christy Mack (left) is in hospital and War Machine, aka Jon Koppenhaver, is at large after he allegedly beat her brutally at their Las Vegas home . 'After many months of fear and pressure to keep this man happy, although I fear for my life, I feel that I can no longer put myself in this situation,' she wrote. She added that there was a $10,000 reward for his capture. Police have yet to identify the third party who was in Mack's home and assaulted, confirming only that both Mack and the third party sustained 'severe but non-life-threatening injures.' Koppenhaver tweeted about the incident. '@ChristyMack I love you and hope you're okay. I came him (sic) early to surprise you and help you set up for your convention. I can't believe what I found and can't believe what happened. 'I'm so heart broken...in all ways. I will always love you.' TMZ reported that Mack is 'in very bad shape' after the attack. Before Koppenhaver's capture, a representative for Mack told TMZ that her friends and relatives were offering $5,000 for information on Koppenhaver. Koppenhaver took to Twitter following the alleged assault, writing that he wanted to surprise Mack with an engagement ring but couldn't 'believe what I found.' 'I love you and hope you're okay. I came him (sic) early to surprise . you and help you set up for your convention. I can't believe what I . found and can't believe what happened. All I wanted was to surprise you . and help and do something nice ...now this,' he wrote. 'I'm not a bad guy, I went to surprise my gf, help her set up her show . and to give her an engagement ring and ended up fighting for my life,' he added. Then: "The cops will never give me fair play, never believe . me. Still deciding what to do but at the end of the day it's all just . heart breaking." 'I only wish that man hadn't been there and that Christy & I would . be happily engaged.I don't know y I'm so cursed.One day truth will come out.' Welterweight Koppenhaver, who appears on the FOX show Ultimate Fighter, was from his contract with MMA tournament group Bellator. Big man: Koppenhaver has spent time in jail for assault, and Mack has previously spoken about his physical violence towards her . Porn star: The tattooed brunette works in the porn industry but is currently in hospital with injuries so severe that she has difficulty speaking . Selfie-obsessed: 'War Machine' tweeted about the attack, hinting that he had found Mack en flagrante with another person . Bellator's president told Scott Coker told TMZ, 'We have a zero tolerance policy here at Bellator when it relates to any form of domestic violence, and after learning of this latest incident involving (Jon Koppenhaver) War Machine, Bellator is releasing him from his promotional contract with the organization.' Koppenhaver served a year in jail in 2012 for an assault in a San Diego nightclub, TMZ said. Fox Sports reports that last November she wrote that Koppenhaver 'threatened to kill' her. She deleted the tweets not long after and Koppenhaver tweeted that she had been joking. Later, she tweeted that she had endured 'several slapping, choking unconscious, smothering, kicking and throwings' at his hands. | WARNING: GRAPHIC PHOTOS .
War Machine, the MMA fighter who allegedly assaulted ex-girlfriend Christy Mack and another individual, was arrested on Friday at an Extended Stay America Hotel .
Simi Valley police said they worked with US marshals and found War Machine inside an Extended Stay America shortly before 2pm .
Hotel guest called police after seeing Koppenhaver yell at a small woman and try to pull her hair .
He was booked into Ventura County Jail while he awaits extradition to Nevada .
Mack is in hospital with serious injuries .
He is believed to have brutally beaten Mack and the man in a Los Angeles home .
Mack says that attack left her with 18 broken bones around her eyes, a nose broken in two places, and hair sawed off by a knife .
Claims she escaped when Koppenhaver went to kitchen to get a new knife after the first broke . |
17,780 | 325e392a166c3894202f28065f36803cbf5a53ca | Few athletes enjoy discussing injuries or ailments but for Andy Murray the subject is still preferable to getting dragged into the debate on Scottish independence. After easing his way into the third round of the US Open he was far more comfortable talking about how he has upped his intake of salt to combat cramp than he was the future of the United Kingdom. He swerved the referendum issue as adroitly as he did the threat of Germany’s Matthias Bachinger, who he defeated 6-3, 6-3, 6-4 to set up a meeting this evening with world No 96 Andrey Kuznetsov of Russia. VIDEO Scroll down for Sportsmail's Mike Dickson and Ross Hutchins at the US Open . Great Scot! Andy Murray has reached the last 32 of the US Open in Flushing Meadows, New York . Spasms: British No 1 suffered cramps in his arms during his first round match against Robin Haase . Super shaker: Andy Murray has revealed he is taking salt sachets to combat his muscle fatigue . Against Bachinger on a relatively cool New York evening there was no repeat of the spasms that hindered him in the first round, and in typical Murray fashion he has not left anything to chance in making sure they do not re-occur in the future. This involves raiding the player canteen at Flushing Meadows for the dinky little packets of seasoning that most use purely to add some flavour to their pasta. ‘I have changed a few things, not so much what I’m eating but what I’m drinking. I’m making sure I have enough fluids down me and take a bit more salt to see if that helps,’ he said. ‘There are little one-gram sachets of salt in the restaurant I take. The conditions are tough and you need to make sure you are on top of everything before matches so you don’t get caught out. ‘I don’t weigh food but I weigh myself three times a day — when I get up, normally after practice, and before I go to bed. I know exactly what my weight should be in the morning and in the evening.’ From Russia with love: World No 96 Andrey Kuznetsov faces the former Wimbledon champion in the next round . Team GB: British fans get behind Andy Murray during his third round match against Matthias Bachinger . Australian Open Quarter-final . French Open Semi-final . Wimbledon Quarter-final . US Open ? Evidently that was all part of the review of what happened against in his first-round struggle against Robin Haase. ‘There were no fluctuations earlier in the week in terms of my weight. I had drunk enough in terms of quantity but maybe something was missing. I will make sure I am on top of it for the rest of the tournament.’ The soaring temperatures of the past week — which have seen several players go down with cramp — have now abated and a mild few days are expected as the 2012 champion tries to get past the Russian, who upset Spain’s formidable Fernando Verdasco in five sets. Kuznetsov is a dangerous, flat hitter who after beating Britain’s Dan Evans at Wimbledon — a year ago today Evans came close to beating Tommy Robredo to make the last 16 here — went on to make the fourth round at SW19 . To do that he also had to beat the ultra-tough David Ferrer, so he is not to be underestimated. The 23-year-old is coached by his father and in his spare time likes to drive BMWs and play the guitar. Love game: Andy Murray's girlfriend Kim Sears watches the action under the New York heat . Girl power: The Scot trains with female coach Amelie Mauresmo as he bids to win a first tournament this year . Same again? Andy Murray is hoping to repeat the success he had in winning the 2012 US Open . Five years ago he won junior Wimbledon and a swift ascent was predicted but, as for so many others at that age, it did not work out that way. ‘It was pretty hard, I had some bad periods,’ he said. ‘In the beginning it seemed to be easy that I was going to go to top 100 but I lost some matches. Finally I came to top 100 two years ago, the first time, and then I came to top 100 again this year. I did a lot of work, and now I hope to stay there. Cramps can occur at any time but little is known about their precise causes, partly because they can appear out of the blue. Sometimes underlying health issues such as liver disease can lead to muscle cramps, but for top athletes — some of the fittest people on the planet — cramp can be something of a mystery. It was a widely-held belief that being dehydrated, and therefore having lower levels of salt in your body, could lead to your muscles involuntarily contracting. Though there is little clinical evidence for this, some athletes try to minimise the effects by taking on extra fluids and nutrients. What works for some may not work for others, but clearly Andy Murray feels snacking on salt reduces the risk. ‘I can be aggressive against Andy, there is much less pressure on me than him.’ Murray looked much more comfortable against Bachinger and will not be unhappy if the conditions are windy again, as he showed that there is nobody more skilful than him when it is blowing. Looking further ahead, expectations should not be placed too high as Novak Djokovic, his prospective quarter-final opponent, looks like he has already played himself back into form. Danger ahead! Novak Djokovic is Andy Murray's potential opponent should they both reach the quarter-finals . Keeping schtum: Andy Murray would prefer not to get involved in the issue of Scottish independence . Nice touch in the players’ lounge where competitors are signing a giant get-well card for Haitian-American teenager Victoria Duval, who last year beat former champion Sam Stosur here. Duval is being treated for Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Unsurprisingly, one of the signatures is that of Ross Hutchins, himself a cancer survivor. More bizarre US Open scheduling yesterday with many of the best daytime matches being put on the Grandstand Court, the third largest arena. The likes of Gael Monfils, Caroline Wozniacki, Simona Halep and Tomas Berdych were better than the flat fare served up on Arthur Ashe. Equally hard to avoid is the independence issue, but again he wanted to tiptoe around the subject while being keen to emphasise that he is taking a keen interest. Knowing all too well of the abuse he would take from either side — getting tired, old accusations of anti-Englishness on one hand or being attacked by the Cybernats on the other — he has taken the easier option and hid behind the fact that, as a long-time Surrey resident, he cannot vote anyway. A shame in many ways, as he is an original thinker and his full view would doubtless be interesting. It’s not too late to play MailOnline Fantasy Football… There’s £1,000 to be won EVERY WEEK by the highest scoring manager . CLICK HERE to start picking your Fantasy Football team NOW! There’s £60,000 in prizes including £1,000 up for grabs EVERY WEEK… . | Andy Murray defeated Matthias Bachinger to reach US Open third round .
British No 1 suffered muscle cramps in first round defeat of Robin Haase .
Scot has revealed he is taking salt sachets from canteen to combat fatigue .
Murray faces world No 96 Andrey Kuznetsov in the next round .
The 27-year-old is on course to meet Novak Djokovic in the quarter-finals .
Murray would prefer not to be drawn on the issue of Scottish independence . |
249,374 | ceb3fc9e0643e084fb8aefd076cff31f79fcd6e5 | By . Becky Evans . PUBLISHED: . 14:45 EST, 29 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 02:19 EST, 2 June 2013 . Black sacks are overflowing on the streets and communal bins are threatening to become a haven for rats and seagulls. Mountains of rubbish have been left to rot on the streets of Brighton and Hove after five weeks of dispute between binmen and the country's only Green Party-controlled council. Furious residents are now threatening to withhold their council tax payments in protest at the weeks of stalemate. A seagull picks open rubbish that has been left uncollected on the Brighton and Hove streets for up to five weeks . Some residents say that as well as seagulls they have spotted rats and maggots among the waste . The city's communal bins are overflowing with waste and bags of rubbish are spilling on to the ground . They have spoken of maggots breeding in their bins and say the filth has now become so bad it is a health hazard. Seagulls, a noisy nuisance that Brighton and Hove residents are used to, have now been joined by rats, which are ripping open refuse bags and scattering rubbish across the pavements. The ugly sight, reminiscent of scenes from the 1970s when rubbish went uncollected in many cities for weeks, has been caused by unofficial action by binmen. Five weeks of negotiation have so far failed and the local branch of the GMB union is now balloting for industrial action and leaders warn a walkout would cause 'major, major disruption.' The backlog was created when refuse collectors went on strike on the Wednesday and Thursday after the early May bank holiday weekend. According to The Argus, residents are now planning to withhold council tax payments until the backlog is cleared. George Mower, 66, told the newspaper: 'It is disgusting. I saw two rats running around it. It’s a health hazard. 'I’m stopping my council tax as a result. I’m using my car and it’s my labour so why should I pay? Let them take me to court if they want to.' Bins are overflowing with black sacks and recycling boxes are full with uncollected waste . Pavements in residential roads are strewn with rubbish and food and locals have warned it is a health hazard . It is not the first time the city has suffered as piles of rubbish infest their streets. In 2009, a bin strike brought Brighton and Hove to its knees. No rubbish was collected from the city's 120,000 households for a week. The latest dispute comes after town hall bosses announced changes to the way binmen are paid. For their part, the union claim the changes would leave binmen up to £95 a week out of pocket, whereas others in the department are getting a pay rise under the changes. The council says the workers who lose money will take an average of £1,000 a year pay cut. GMB branch secretary Mark Turner told Mail Online: '280 of our members will see between a £35 and £95 a week pay-cut. 'We are very confident on the result . of the ballot and it would see a significant course of industrial action . and cause major major disruption in the city. The Green-controlled Brighton and Hove City Council have apologised to residents for the disrupted service . 'We are amazed that a green council is doing this. In 2009 they stood on the picket line with us.' However, the city councillor Jason Kitcat wrote on his blog this month: 'The majority of staff, about 90%, will see little or no change to their total pay, and of those affected more will gain than see detriment. Any detriment will be compensated and we expect the total wage bill to rise slightly.' A statement on the council's website said: 'We do not know how long the disruption will last and we are sorry, but we cannot provide a normal standard of service.' It added: 'As a result of the ongoing dispute between employees and the council we are still experiencing targeted disruption to recycling and rubbish collections. 'This means more vehicles than normal are being found to have problems, some crews are not collecting additional waste beside a bin and are working more slowly. No employees are working overtime on recycling and rubbish.' | Rubbish and recycling has not been collected because of an ongoing dispute .
Residents in Brighton and Hove have warned the situation is a health hazard .
Seagulls have been picking through the uncollected waste .
Binmen are threatening to strike over a pay dispute . |
48,705 | 8981bfc37b0d02e36678639e11be976f867e870c | Manchester United fans hoping for a return to free-flowing attacking football under new manager Louis van Gaal might have felt a little uneasy at the sight of the Dutch coach playing with a back SIX at times against Argentina. The threat of Lionel Messi was clearly at the forefront of Van Gaal’s plans for the World Cup semi-final showdown in the Corinthians Arena. Van Gaal’s tactics worked to a degree as Holland shut out the Argentina attack in a largely uninspiring semi-final but the Dutch side lost out in a penalty shoot-out. But United fans, who were fed a constant diet of entertaining football under Sir Alex Ferguson, will be hoping the new boss doesn’t resort to negative tactics at Old Trafford. VIDEO Scroll down to watch highlights of Lionel Messi . Rearguard action: Holland played with a back six at times against Argentina . Dirk Kuyt is first to console Wesley Sneijder after his miss in the penalty shoot-out . The Argentina players celebrate after beating the Netherlands in a penalty shoot-out . Arjen Robben spurned the best chance of the 90 minutes when his shot was blocked by Javier Mascherano . VIDEO Argentina scrape through to final . The . 62-year-old will take his new club to California next week as United, . who unveiled their new home kit on Monday, embark on a tour of the USA. Van Gaal’s . new assistant coach Albert Stuivenberg was at Carrington on Monday for . what was officially the first day of pre-season following medical and . fitness tests last week, along with several other members of his Dutch . coaching staff. Ryan Giggs is in charge while the Holland boss is in Brazil, and United’s assistant manager was first to arrive at training. Luis Van Gaal placed extra emphasis on stopping the attacking threat of Lionel Messi . Task-master: Van Gaal is expected to get tough with the United players when he arrives in Manchester . Holland and Argentina observed a minute silence in memory of Alfredo Di Stefano before the semi-final . Incoming: New United manager Van Gaal has lost experience but will make do with his young guns . VIDEO All Star XI: Lionel Messi . | Dutch coach set out to stifle Argentina's star Lionel Messi .
Messi scored one of the penalties as Argentina won 4-2 in the shoot-out .
Van Gaal will take over as new boss of Manchester United next week . |
31,364 | 592a277bfa28cf2d3067745692309575264af7a6 | By . Ashley Collman . and Hannah Roberts . Raffaele Sollecito last night suggested his relationship with Amanda Knox was the only reason he was found guilty of murdering British student Meredith Kercher. The 29-year-old spoke out to Anderson Cooper after an Italian court's decision to reinstate his conviction in the 2007 murder and appeared to imply that Knox’s unpopularity in Italy meant he was doomed to be found guilty again. 'I'm guilty just because in their minds I have to be guilty because I was her boyfriend. It doesn't make any sense to me,' he said on CNN. Scroll down for video . Guilty by association: Amanda Knox's Italian ex-boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito appeared on CNN from Italy Monday night following a new decision to reinstate his 25 year prison sentence for the murder of British student Meredith Kercher . Sollecito and Knox were originally sentenced to 25 and 28 years in prison, respectively, and served four years before being released in 2011. Upon her release Knox went back to her home in Seattle, Washington and when the case went into retrial last year, she refused to return to Italy. Diplomats have said no Secretary of State would ever extradict Knox back to Italy, but Italian Sollecito has attended the whole re-trial knowing there was a real threat he could be sent back to prison. 'I'm trying to be as positive as possible in a situation like this,' he said. 'It's very traumatic, the situation here now. But on the other side, I still have to fight. I have chosen to be here and to fight against this ordeal.' Misunderstanding: Raffaele dismissed reports he was trying to flee Italy this morning and claimed he was actually returning to the country after hearing the guilty verdict . Sollecito was sentenced to 25 years in prison for the murder of Meredith Kercher, pictured . 'I don't know what to think, because . objectively, there's nothing against me and nothing very strong against . Amanda,' Sollecito added. Sollecito's sentence will not be imposed until the Italian Supreme Court confirms it at a hearing next year. The . day after the guilty verdict was announced, it seemed as though . Sollecito was trying to flee the country when he was arrested 40 . kilometers from the Austrian border at a hotel in the Italian village of . Venzone. But he told CNN . that he went to Austria to celebrate the decision with his girlfriend, . since he expected to be cleared of all charges and drove back into Italy . 'as soon as I understood the verdict.' Police apprehended Raffaele Sollecito, pictured left, and his girlfriend - believed to be Greta Menegaldo, pictured right - at a hotel approximately 40 kilometres from the Italian border . Both Raffaele Sollecito and his girlfriend cover up their faces as they leave Udine police station in Italy. It is the first time Sollecito has been photographed in public since the Kercher murder verdict was announced . No escape: Sollecito is pictured as he leaves the Udine police station in northern Italy on Friday . Company: Sollecito's girlfriend, believed to be named Greta Menegaldo, can be seen in the passenger seat . Sollecito and his girlfriend left the police station on Friday afternoon after officers confiscated his passport . Swarm: Sollecito, driving the Mini, was found by police near Italy's border with Slovenia and Austria . Raffaele Sollecito was apprehended by police at a hotel in Venzone, in between Tarvision and Udine, north-east Italy, which are close to both the borders of Austria and Slovenia . The Carnia hotel in Venzone, Italy, where police are believed to have found Sollecito with his girlfriend . A typical room inside the Hotel Carnia, pictured, where the couple were staying after Sollecito discovered judges had found him guilty of the murder of Meredith Kercher . On . Thursday – the day of the verdict – he left the court at 10:30am as . the panel of judges went out to consider their decision. By the time they returned to announce the verdict, Sollecito was nowhere to be seen. His lawyer claimed he was still in Florence, but ‘too stressed’ to attend. While both Sollecito and Knox were re-convicted of Kercher's murder last week, neither will be forced to serve time until the sentence is confirmed by an Italian Supreme Court. Both parties are appealing the guilty verdict, and will remain free in the meantime. Their case will again be heard in front of Italy's highest court, the court of cassation, which ordered the retrial earlier last year. The high court will be able to overturn the guilty verdict if it finds errors in the law were made by the lower court. Both parties may have an advantage in their next hearing, following a misstep on the part of the presiding judge in the most recent case. Judge Alessandro Nencini gave interviews to three Italian newspapers, commenting on the case just a few days before giving out her final decision. In one interview, Nencini said Sollecito may have made a mistake by not testifying in the trial. However, Sollecito's lawyers point out that he was never asked to submit to a cross examination. They add that Nencini's public comments show bias and taint the verdict. 'The conviction is the result of a clear bias on the part of the judges against the defendants and in particular against Raffaele Sollecito, and that interview proves it,' his defense lawyer Luca Maori told Corriere della Sera. In . fact he and his girlfriend Greta Menegaldo, a 23-year-old model, were . already on their way to Italy’s north-east border with Austria. The pair had met while studying at the University of Verona and are said to have become close. Miss . Menegaldo, who is from Treviso, near Venice, has previously . accompanied Sollecito on a holiday to South America, where her parents . now live. A Mini Cooper belonging to her father was spotted heading to . the Italian-Austrian border on Thursday while the judges were . deliberating the case of Sollecito and Knox. The car was already 200 miles from Florence. Staff at the low-key Carnia hotel tipped off the police, after recognising Sollecito as he checked in at 1am. At . dawn he was taken to a police station in Udine where his passport was . confiscated. He has been cautioned that he is forbidden to leave the . country,’ a spokesman for the police said. ‘His passport has been taken away from him and his identity card has been stamped to show that he must not leave Italy.’ Sollecito . told police he went on ‘a little trip into Austria, then came back to . Italy’. According to reports in the Italian media, he added: ‘I stopped . there to rest.’ He later released a statement saying he had ‘never . thought of fleeing, before or now’. Sollecito’s lawyer, Luca Maori, said his client had gone ‘willingly’ with police to give up his passport. The . Florence court had ruled that there was a ‘real and present’ danger . that Sollecito would flee the country and said he could not leave Italy . again without permission from a judge. The . judges said that although he had been present at some of the trial, . Sollecito had shown an interest in obtaining ‘logistical support in . countries with which Italy does not have relations of [mutual] judicial . assistance’. In addition to holidaying in the Dominican Republic earlier in the case, Sollecito sought work in Switzerland. But he was forced to leave when the authorities discovered his legal obligations. In . court: Raffaele Sollecito, pictured arriving at court in Florence, . Italy, yesterday for the final hearing ahead of his guilty verdict in . the latest Meredith Kercher murder trial, had his passport confiscated . Verdict: The judge in the courthouse of Florence reads the final guilty verdict after 11 hours of deliberations . Raffaele Sollecito pictured in court yesterday for the final submissions ahead of the judges' deliberations . Support: Raffaele Sollecito is flanked by his stepmother Mara Papagni, left, and his aunt Sara Achille, right, as he leaves court after attending the final hearing before the third verdict for the murder of British student Meredith Kercher . | Raffaele Sollecito's 25-year sentence for the murder of Meredith Kercher was reinstated by an Italian court last week .
Sollecito's lawyer said 'stunned is an understatement' when asked about his client's reaction to the verdict on Friday .
The 29-year-old will not have to serve his sentence until an Italian Supreme Court confirms the decision .
Diplomats say it's unlikely a Secretary of State would send Sollecito's ex Amanda Knox back to Italy . |
70,866 | c8ebf6f48257a704202c7b6df238bc1cbfa838d7 | Vladimir Putin has issued a defiant warning that the MH17 crash must not be used for 'selfish political ends' and urged separatists to allow international experts access to the crash site. Wearing a dark suit and looking tired and drawn during a rare television address, the Russian president insisted 'all people' in Ukraine had a responsibility to the families of the 298 passengers and crew who died last week. But he added: 'No-one has the right to use this tragedy for any kind of vested interest in the political sense. Such incidents should unite people rather than separate them.' His comments came just hours after David Cameron issued a stark warning to Putin that his billionaire ‘cronies’ will have their assets frozen in London unless Russia co-operates with the investigation. Hitting back: Wearing a dark suit and looking tired and drawn, Russian president Vladimir Putin issued a defiant warning that the MH17 crash must not be used for 'selfish political' advantage . Rows of bodies: Bagged victims can be seen above lined up in front of a truck yesterday at the crash site, ready to be moved to the refrigerated trains . Final indignity: Rescue workers, pictured above, loaded the corpses onto trucks at the crash site in eastern Ukraine, which were then taken to refrigerated train carriages nine miles away . Meanwhile, Putin has been examining samples of aviation equipment at the Production Rocket Space Centre . There are already representatives of Donetsk and Lugansk working there, as well as representatives of the emergencies ministry of Ukraine and others. But this is not enough. This task force is not enough. We need more, we need a fully representative group of experts to be working at the site under the guidance of ICAO, the relevant international commission. We must do everything to provide security for the international experts on the site of the tragedy. We need to do everything to provide its [ICAO commission’s] safety, to provide the humanitarian corridors necessary for its work. In the meantime, nobody should and has no right to use this tragedy to achieve their narrowly selfish political goals. We repeatedly called upon all conflicting sides to stop the bloodshed immediately and sit down at the negotiating table. I can say with confidence that if military operations were not resumed on June 28 in eastern Ukraine, this tragedy wouldn’t have happened. During his television address this morning, Putin said it is necessary for 'all people' involved in the current conflict in Ukraine take responsibility for their actions. He said there was a duty . to: 'improve their responsibility to their own people, and to the people . of the countries whose representatives have been victims of this . crash'. Putin added, 'We need to do everything to ensure the security and safety of the observers and the experts working at the crash site.' The comments came as Chancellor George Osborne said the UK was prepared to take an 'economic hit' in order to put pressure on Moscow over its involvement in the Ukraine crisis. Cameron, . meanwhile, is due to make a statement to MPs later spelling out what . measures he believes should be taken following the apparent shooting . downing of the plane by rebels. In what was described by Downing Street as a 'frank' conversation last night, the Prime Minister told Mr Putin his support for insurgents in eastern Ukraine had 'contributed to an appalling tragedy' and the delay in experts being able to investigate was 'indefensible'. The chaos surrounding the handling of the crash has compounded the grief of families all around the world bereaved by the crash, who have been left unable to arrange funerals or properly mourn their dead. Victim's relatives have made emotional appeals for the bodies to be returned as soon as possible, amid reports that the refrigeration in the carriage has only been inconsistently working. Earlier the bodies . of almost 200 victims of the MH17 plane disaster were seen decaying for . a fourth day in a refrigerated train. Since . the bodies of the 298 victims fell from 33,000ft after their plane was . struck by a surface-to-air missile, they were left in the open in . sweltering heat for three days before being gathered up in bags, bundled . on to trucks and driven away. Grisly: The bodies of almost 200 victims of the MH17 plane disaster were seen for a fourth day in a refrigerated train which has done little to hold back the stench of decay which has already overtaken the corpses . Stench: A rebel can be seen holding his nose as the door to a carriage containing the heaped bodies is opened . The bodies . were taken from there to the town of Torez, nine miles away, where they . have been piled up in four refrigerated train carriages. The refrigeration has done little to hold back the stench of decay which has already overtaken . the corpses amid accusations the rebels are holding up the return of . the bodies unnecessarily. Rebel . commanders have reportedly promised that the train will leave this . afternoon, but gave no indication of where or whether the bodies would . be handed over. Further . pressure will be put on Russia to cooperate with the crash investigation at the United Nations, after Britain, Germany and France came to the agreement that the EU must be prepared to ratchet up sanctions if they refuse. It was not immediately known what the Malaysian team would do with the black boxes, but there was speculation they would pass the boxes on to experts with experience of reading the data . A Malaysian investigator, left, takes a black box as it is handed over by a Donetsk People's Republic official in the city of Donetsk . A meeting of EU foreign ministers tomorrow is expected to result in a more . punitive sanctions regime, with Mr Putin's 'crony group' possible . targets. The threats of extensive sanctions on Russian billionaires has already spooked a number of wealthy pro-Kremlin businessmen and women. 'The economic and business elite is just in horror,' Igor Bunin, the head of the Center for Political Technology in Moscow, told Bloomberg news. 'Nobody will speak out because of the implicit threat of retribution... Any sign of rebellion and they’ll be brought to their knees,' he added. One billionaire, speaking on condition . of anonymity, added that Putin risks becoming a pariah figure as wealthy . and powerful Russians seek to distance themselves from him to keep hold . of their money. The Prime Minister likened the failure to tackle Vladimir Putin to the appeasement of Hitler in the 1930s, while Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond said Russia risked becoming a 'pariah state' if it carried on arming rebels . The Prime Minister likened the failure to tackle Vladimir Putin to the appeasement of Hitler in the 1930s, while Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond said Russia risked becoming a 'pariah state' if it carried on arming rebels . French arms sales . and German dependence on Russian fossil fuels have been seen as possible . barriers to tougher measures, but Britain will argue that the whole . union must share the burden. A . No 10 source said the UK wanted additional names to be added to the . list of Russians subject to travel bans and asset freezes under the . existing criteria for EU sanctions. These . could include 'entities' - firms or organisations - as well as . individuals involved in supporting efforts to destabilise Ukraine. But . there will also be an effort to extend the scope of the sanctions, to . allow those who are influencing or supporting the 'Russian regime' to be . targeted for sanctions, meaning oligarchs within Mr Putin's inner . circle could be named. In a . round of broadcast interviews this morning, Mr Osborne accepted that . Britain could not escape unscathed from taking such action against . Moscow. 'This is about living in a world where international borders are . respected, where commercial airliners are not shot down," he told BBC . Radio 4's Today programme. 'It is absolutely in Britain's national economic interest that that is the case. 'Of course any sanctions will have an economic impact, and we are prepared to undertake further sanctions. 'But . think of the economic hit... of allowing international borders to be . ignored, of allowing airliners to be shot down. That is a much greater . economic hit for Britain. We are not prepared to just allow that to . happen.' Investigation: Russian president Vladimir Putin has urged separatists (right) to allow international experts (left) access to the crash site . Masked and armed: A pro-Russian fighter guards the crash site of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 near the village of Hrabove in eastern Ukraine . The separatists . placed bodies from the downed Boeing 777 in refrigerated train carriages . in the rebel-held town of Torez, nine miles from the crash site, and . said they would remain there until the arrival of an international . aviation delegation. They . also claimed the plane's black boxes had been recovered and would be . handed over to the International Civil Aviation Organisation. The UK is . supporting an Australian attempt to secure a UN Security Council (UNSC) resolution, which would demand 'safe, full and unfettered access to the . site" and for the bodies to be handled with respect and dignity.' A . Downing Street source said Russia had blocked an attempt to agree a . press statement by the UNSC and the Government was 'realistic' about the . prospect of success in getting a resolution through without it being . vetoed. Meanwhile, the US set out the evidence it claimed it had for Russian separatists being behind the atrocity. Secretary . of State John Kerry said it was 'pretty clear' that an SA-11 missile . system had been transferred by Russia into the hands of the separatists. | Russian president urges Western leaders not to politicise MH17 disaster .
Says nobody has the right to use tragedy for 'any kind of vested interest'
Also called on separatists to give investigators full access to crash site .
Comments come amid threats Russian billionaires could have international assets frozen unless the country cooperates with crash investigation .
David Cameron issued stark warning that Putin's 'cronies' were under threat .
New sanctions could be imposed at a meeting of EU ministers tomorrow .
Meanwhile bodies of 200 MH17 victims are still decaying on motionless train .
Undignified scene with swarms of flies has sparked international outrage . |
229,661 | b566d282eb7a708ed48e6fa78da7a7c43faa93c5 | The watching world were treated to a celebration of colour, dance and music as Brazil officially unleashed the 2014 World Cup. The location? Arena de Sao Paulo, Brazil. The reason? Kick-starting the world's greatest tournament, and in some style too. Much was debated as to whether Brazil would be up to hosting the World Cup but, judging by this opening ceremony, they seem to be off to a fairly good start. VIDEO Scroll down for J-Lo teases her World Cup onstage wardrobe via Instagram . Trio: Pitbull, Jennifer Lopez and Claudia Leitte perform during the opening ceremony of the 2014 World Cup in Arena de Sao Paulo . Start: J-LO acknowledges the crowd after singing the official World Cup song 'We Are One (Ola Ola)' alongside Pitbull . Singer Leitte performs during the opening ceremony of the 2014 World Cup where the Brazuca ball was before it split into segments . In the mood: J-LO, Leitte and Pitbull perform on the central stage in Sao Paulo ahead of the World Cup opener between Brazil and Croatia . The World Cup stage: The Brazuca ball split into segments to allow Pitbull, J-LO and Leitte to perform during the opening ceremony . Looking on: A Brazil fan waits for the start of the Group A match against Croatia, as will the rest of the watching world . A mix of all kinds: A Mexico fan looks on while wearing his eccentric peacock-feathered headdress during the opening ceremony in Sao Paulo . Peace: A Brazil fan waves the peace sign during the opening ceremony and another two supporters give a thumbs up as J-LO performs in Sao Paulo . Fans watch on as the World Cup gets underway with an opening ceremony at the Arena de Sao Paulo on Thursday before kick-off . All smiles: Brazil fans were certainly up for the opening ceremony as they watched on ahead of the Brazil v Croatia clash in Group A . The World Cup has had its fair share of memorable opening ceremony moments - none more so than Diana Ross fluffing her lines by missing a penalty with an open goal in 1994. But . there were few of that in these Samba celebrations, as Brazil . showed it was up to the task ahead of the clash against Croatia. It all centred around a giant luminous Brazuca ball - a fitting focal point given the journey it was about to embark upon. The ball, then, split into segments and opened up towards the climax to reveal Claudia Leitte. Then, Jennifer Lopez and Pitbull, wearing a Brazil top, rose to the platform as well. There was an awkward moment when the elevating platform seemed to get stuck and Pitbull had to help J-LO up before the pair performed the official World Cup song 'We Are One (Ola Ola)'. The . opening ceremony gave youngsters from dance groups, schools and . training academies in Sao Paulo the chance to be part of the . celebrations, too. A little awkward! Pitbull helps J-LO out of the elevated paltform that seemed to get stuck on its way up . Proud: A female Brazil fan shows off her colours at the Opening Ceremony of the 2014 World Cup ahead of the Brazil and Croatia clash in Sao Paulo . Fans cheer before the start of the first Group A match between Brazil and Croatia, as the opening ceremony seemed to get them in the mood . Performers dance during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Opening Ceremony at Arena de Sao Paulo on June 12 . Home: A fan kisses a fake World Cup trophy ahead of the match between tournament-favourites Brazil and Croatia . Packed: The general view of the arena during the opening ceremony as fans piled in to see Brazil v Croatia . A festival of colour: The opening ceremony did not disappoint in terms of colour as its huge selection of dancers had their costumes at the ready . Performers take part in the opening ceremony of the 2014 FIFA World Cup at the Corinthians Arena in Sao Paulo . | World Cup opening ceremony marks the start of the 2014 tournament in Brazil .
Pitbull, Jennifer Lopez and Claudia Leitte perform at the climax of the opening ceremony in Sao Paulo .
Awkward moment when Pitbull had to help J-LO out of a rising platform that got stuck .
A mix of all fans from Brazilian to Croatian to Mexican join the celebrations at Arena de Sao Paulo . |
28,410 | 50a1404fd2f2729ad0563e52f520a5ae7092e9e4 | Hong Kong (CNN) -- Reports of Jade Rabbit's demise may have been premature. China's first lunar rover had stopped functioning, state media reported Wednesday, but signs are emerging that Yutu, as it is known in Mandarin, may be up and running again. Following technical malfunctions Xinhua said that the lunar rover had lost communication with mission control but on Thursday the state news agency said that the rover was "fully awake" and had returned to its normal signal-receiving status. "Jade Rabbit has fully resurrected and is able to receive signals, but still suffers a mechanical control abnormality," China's lunar program spokesman Pei Zhaoyu told Xinhua. "The rover entered hibernation while in an abnormal state. We were worried it wouldn't be able to make it through the extreme cold of the lunar night. But it came back alive. The rover stands a chance of being saved as it is still alive." READ MORE: China's moon landing . Xinhua also posted a screenshot of the Chang'e-3 Moon Probe's Sina Weibo account, which, at 8.49am Thursday morning local time, asked: "Is anyone out there?" The rover has over 300,000 followers on the Chinese Twitter-like social media site, some of whom celebrated the lucky robot's resurrection. One Weibo user said that the rabbit was "waking up for the [Chinese lantern] festival" which starts on Friday. Another took a cynical view, commenting that some countries would "be disappointed" at China's space program's ability to come back from the dead. An amateur website dedicated to monitoring radio signals from space also reported on its Twitter account that it had detected "pretty good signals" from the device. The lunar rover's end seemed near when it signed off at the end of January with a poignant message: "Goodnight humanity." READ MORE: China's moon rover launched successfully . The device had been out of action for two weeks following a technical malfunction, and media around the world filed its obituary late on Wednesday after a short statement on Chinese state media alerted the world to its apparent terminal failings. "China's first lunar rover, Yutu, could not be restored to full function on Monday as expected," the report stated. However, the robot has given its fans in China and around the world hope that it will resume its planned three-month mission and continue examining the moon's surface for potential resources. The deputy chief designer of the Chang-e probe system told China National Radio the technical team is still trying to determine the source of problem and work on the plan for repair. Should Jade Rabbit make a full recovery, it would cap another success for space exploration, which has seen NASA's Opportunity Mars rover, currently exploring the red planet, far outlast its expected lifespan. CNN's Zhang Dayu and Wilfred Chan contributed to this report . | China's Chang'e 3 moon rover, thought to be beyond saving,has resumed signal-receiving status .
'Jade Rabbit' prematurely pronounced inoperative .
Moon rover's 300,000 weibo fans rejoice . |
178,014 | 72722659e208628ab0c48bc062ef987f91ee6ad7 | New York (CNN) -- Health advisories were issued for four beaches in New York City Thursday evening as wastewater from a plant continued to discharge into the Hudson River, according to a press release from the New York City Department of Environmental Protection. A four-alarm fire at the North River wastewater treatment plant triggered flooding of wastewater into the Hudson River Wednesday morning, after a blaze began in the plant's engine room. The health advisories were issued for South Beach, Midland Beach and Cedar Grove Beach on Staten Island, and Sea Gate in Brooklyn, according to the release. The beaches are not closed but the New York City Department of Health recommends that people not swim or enter the water at those locations. They also recommend that young or elderly people, or anyone who suffers from a medical condition not go near the water at those beaches. The advisories will last through Monday. Popular Coney Island Beach was unaffected by the advisories as of Thursday evening. All employees at the plant were accounted for following the incident with no injuries, New York City Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Cas Holloway told CNN affiliate WPIX. The facility was not operational on Thursday evening but department staff and contractors were inside the facility working to bring the plant online. The plant is responsible for treating 120 million gallons of wastewater a day on Manhattan's west side. | A fire at a wastewater treatment plant triggered a release into the Hudson River .
Beach-goers are urged to avoid three beaches on Staten Island and one in Brooklyn .
The health advisories will last through Monday .
Coney Island Beach remained unaffected Thursday night . |
140,333 | 41766d901aa01b216a3b458366a4333382cfa1f5 | By . Sara Malm . PUBLISHED: . 04:13 EST, 17 January 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 05:00 EST, 17 January 2013 . A homeless man who pushed a father onto the tracks of an oncoming New York subway train has said one of his reasons for the fatal push was that he had lost his Timberland boots. Naeem Davis, 30 is pleading not guilty to second degree murder and manslaughter but admitted to police that he pushed Ki-Suck Han in front of the train. Mr Davis said he could have walked away from the argument with ‘drunk’ Mr Han, but that his ‘head wasn't where it was supposed to be that day’ because a friend had thrown away his boots two days before, court papers reveal. Scroll down for video . In the dock: Homeless suspect Naeem Davis, pictured at an earlier court hearing, say he pushed the victim in front of the train because he was still angry over losing his boots two days earlier . Mr Davis told police that he realised . that his 58-year-old victim was drunk when he jumped the turnstile at . the 49th Street N/R/Q platform. He said: ‘Yes, for the sake of argument, I could have walked away, but it was just bad timing. He came at the wrong time.’ He then claims Mr Han threatened him, . saying ‘I’ll kill you!’ and that the victim started the fight which led . to him being pushed in front of the train. Mr Han's wife has said she had argued . with her husband and that he had been drinking on the morning of December 3 last year. Victim: Mr Davis allege Ki-Suck Han was drunk and instigated the argument, threatening to kill him . Controversial: The New York Post put photo of Mr Han on their cover . At about 12.30pm, Mr Han encountered Mr Davis, who later told police he . was on a paid errand to buy merchandise for street vendors. Mr Davis claimed that after the men . accidentally bumped into each other while entering the station, the victim began yelling at him. He also said the victim was . staggering and slurring his words. 'I don't know you, you don't know me!' Davis said he responded before trying to walk away. After Mr Han followed him down the . platform and tried to grab him, Mr Davis admitted pushing him away. Upon his arrest the following day Mr . Davis told police ‘I'm really sorry this happened, really sorry. Do you . think I can get a manslaughter charge?’ According to court documents Mr Davis . has pleaded not guilty to charges of 2nd degree murder and manslaughter . with defense arguing Mr Han was ‘clearly pursuing’ him after starting a . fight. Build-up: The two men were seen on CCTV arguing before the victim (left) was 'pushed' to his death . Argument: Mr Han (seen left) and Mr Davis had a heated exchange before Mr Davis pushed 'drunk' Mr Han onto the tracks . In the documents, procured by The Gothamist newspaper, Judge Bonnie Wittner questions the defence. ‘There was no other way to prevent injury to himself except by pushing [Han] onto the train tracks with an oncoming train?’ ‘He could have been drunk, but I still . don’t think it was in defense to throw somebody onto the subway tracks. I could be wrong.’ Prosecution argues Mr Davis's statements prove he knew better and that he was not threatened by Mr Han. Mr Davis has been held without bail since his arrest last . month as the trial continues. Fatal fall: Police inside 49th Street station, where Mr Han died . | Homeless Naeem Davis admitted to police he pushed Ki-Suck Han .
Davis 'admits watching as Ki-Suck Han tried in vain to climb off tracks'
Davis claims Han was instigator and made drunken threat to kill him . |
57,667 | a36dddcad70a890dc9c3711f7315ac3bbfcd4d7c | By . Ap . and Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 19:41 EST, 12 March 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 05:23 EST, 13 March 2014 . One of the three teenagers accused of . murdering the Australian baseballer Chris Lane said they tried to shoot . other people 'but kept missing', an Oklahoma court has been told. Heather . George, who works at the Stephens county jail where the three teenagers . were held after Lane was killed, testified on Wednesday she had . overheard a conversation between two inmates, one of whom was Michael Jones. Jones, the . alleged driver of the car used in the drive-by shooting, was having a conversation with another inmate, George said. Bad aim: Michael Jones (left) reportedly told an inmate that he and his friends tried to shoot several people the day they killed Lane but 'kept missing' Trial: Chancey Luna (left) and Michael Jones were in court Wednesday for a hearing before their murder trial for allegedly shooting Chris Lane . Mom: Sheryl Roberts, the mother of murder suspect Michael Jones, attended her son's hearing on Wednesday . Support: Jennifer Luna, the mother of murder suspect Chancey Luna, attended the hearing wearing a shirt supporting her son . Victim: Australian national Christopher Lane was senselessly gunned down while jogging in Oklahoma last year . The . other inmate, according to George, asked Jones: 'Why did you have to . shoot an Australian? Why didn’t you drive and shoot somebody else?' George said Jones had replied: 'We tried to shoot several other people, but we kept missing.' At . the conclusion of the preliminary hearing, Judge Jerry Herberger . ordered 18-year-old Jones and the 16-year-old alleged shooter, Chancey . Luna, to stand trial for the first-degree murder of Chris Lane. The . third murder accused, James Edwards, who was 15 on 16 August last year . when Lane was shot in the back and left to die on the side of a Duncan, . Oklahoma, street, has become a prosecution witness. He is hoping to have . his murder charge reduced to an accessory count. Dad: Gene Jones, Michael Jones' father, also attended Wednesday's hearing in Duncan, Oklahoma . 'Thugs': James Edwards (left), Michael Jones (center) and Chancey Luna (right) face first degree murder charges for the shooting of Christopher Lane . Questionable: Friends claimed Edwards (center) and Luna (right) were trying to join the local chapter . of the notorious Crips gang, and they posted pictures to their Facebook . where they are holding gang signs . Edwards . told the preliminary hearing Luna had fired the .22 revolver that . struck Lane as the Australian jogged, but only after the Ford Focus . driven by Jones swerved unexpectedly. Luna had later said he thought the . gun was loaded with blanks, Edwards said. In . another twist, Howard and Jim Berry, the two lawyers representing Luna, . were charged with contempt of court on Wednesday after talking to . reporters about the case last month. Remembered: Bob Gregg, a professor in the religion department at Oklahoma Christian University, bows his head as he leads the audience in prayer during the memorial service for Lane after he was shot . Support: Friends Jordan Corn, left, and Sam Moon embrace before the memorial service for Lane . Struggle: Tyler Iago is comforted by his friend, Sam Moon, of Australia as he weeps at the end of the service . A . gag order has been placed on the lawyers and prosecutors involved in . the case. The Berrys, who are cousins, entered not guilty pleas. Shortly . after the shooting, police said Jones told investigators that the three . were 'bored' and decided to kill someone for the 'fun of it'. It was later suspected that Lane's murder was race related. One . of Edwards' friends, Serenity Jackson, told The Associated Press she . didn't believe race was a factor in the shooting. She noted that Luna's . mother, Edwards' girlfriend and Jones are white. 'It has nothing to do with Chris being white. They didn't even know who he was,' said Jackson, 17, who grew up with Edwards. Tough guy: Edwards posted videos of him tossing around guns and looking threatening in a blue bandana associated with the notorious Crips gang . Victim: Chris Lane (left) was shot when he was jogging during a visit to his girlfriend Sarah Harper's (right) family home in Duncan, Oklahoma . It had previously emerged that Edwards . had posted on his Twitter profile that he 'hated white people' and . boasted that . he beat up five white people - using the derogatory term 'woods' - . after the George Zimmerman acquittal in the Trayvon Martin case. 'Ayeee I knocced out 5 woods since Zimmerman court!:) lol sh*t ima keep sleepin sh*t! #ayeeee,' he wrote. In another, he said: '90% of white ppl are nasty. #HATE THEM'. But Duncan Police Chief Danny Ford said that . rather than being part of any gang, which had been suggested before, . authorities believe the boys were just wannabes who were emulating the . thuggish beliefs of their idols, with rapper Chief Keef being prime suspect. Shock: Residents of Duncan have been convulsed by the murder that has attracted worldwide attention . It emerged that the day before . Edwards is alleged to have shot dead Christopher in a drive-by from . a black Ford Focus, he tweeted about rapper Chief Keef. Two . days earlier he posted a chilling tweet that was a lyric from the . rapper's song I Don't Like. It read: 'With my n****s when it's time to . start taken life's' (sic). Other lyrics in the same song include 'pistol . toting and I'm shooting on sight'. Ford said: 'These boys were more into . some rapper that goes around, his music is violent. More than gang . stuff. One of the parents said something about rap. 'These . boys have no respect for life or authority or society, it doesn't . matter who it is. By one of their own words, they saw him go by, and . they said, "there's the target" and they followed him and shot him. He . could have been anybody walking down the street.' The small town has been rocked by the . senseless murder that has sent shockwaves around the world, leaving many . wondering what drove the 'bored' boys to apparently kill just for the . thrill of it. Because . of Lane's nationality, the case has gained national attention, but some . have criticized the White House for not reacting strongly enough. A . State Department spokeswoman put out a statement last year saying that . the federal government is 'deeply saddened' by Lane's death but she did . not comment on any specific action. Australia's . former Deputy Prime Minister Tim Fischer called for his fellow . countrymen to think of this shooting when they are planning a trip to . the United States. | Lane was shot in the back as he jogged in Duncan, Oklahoma last year .
A guard overheard Michael Jones, 17, talking about the shooting .
Jones told the inmate he and his co-defendants tried to shoot several people the day of Lane's death but 'kept missing' |
75,989 | d782ccb53e3abecfe9d494f5ff2203dee359cc2a | Statins: The inexpensive drug is taken by more than 7million Britons a year . Cholesterol-lowering statin drugs do not appear to help prevent blood clots, according to an extensive new study. Researchers from Oxford University led a team that looked at 29 published and unpublished trials involving over 100,000 people. They found venous thrombosis (a blood clot formed in a vein) occurred in 0.9 . per cent of people taking statins compared to one per cent of people who were . not taking the drugs. There was no difference between those who took . higher or lower doses of statins. The study, published in the open-access journal PLoS Medicine, said: 'We were unable to confirm the large proportional reduction in (clot) risk.' However, it added that 'a more modest but perhaps clinically worthwhile' effect could not be ruled out. In 2009, a trial called JUPITER found that so-called rosuvastatin -- marketed as Crestor -- halved the risk of blood clots among apparently healthy adults, a finding that boosted suggestions the drug should be taken preventively. But the figures to support this finding were relatively small. The 2009 study randomly assigned 17,800 people to take Crestor or dummy pills. After two years of followup, 34 in the statin group and 60 in the placebo group developed a venous thrombo-embolism, a clot which can form in the legs and travel to the lungs. The latest study, led by Kasem Rahimi, found no such effect. Commenting on the findings, British Heart Foundation medical director, Professor Peter Weissberg, said: 'It has long been thought that statins may have additional health benefits on top of their proven ability to reduce heart attacks and strokes. 'An earlier study suggested that one statin, rosuvastatin, might reduce the risk of blood clots in deep veins and lungs, known as venous thromboembolism. 'However, findings in single studies can sometimes happen by chance. By pooling a large amount of data on several different types of statin, this analysis shows that any significant protection against blood clots is highly unlikely.' Statins are taken by up to seven million Britons to combat high cholesterol. They work by blocking the action of key enzymes in the liver, which synthesizes the fat-like substance. Just last week, scientists at the University of Rochester Medical Center discovered new genetic evidence inking cholesterol and cancer. The find means patients could one day be given statins to protect against developing cancer and to treat potential tumours. The drugs cost as little as 40p a day. Maureen Talbot, Senior . Cardiac Nurse at the British Heart Foundation, said: 'Statins are now a . very important part of the lives of millions of people and play a vital . role in both lowering cholesterol and helping prevent heart attacks. 'Their importance shouldn’t be . underestimated and the potential risk of side effects are outweighed by . the proven benefits. The use of statins is the main reason why fewer . people have high cholesterol levels now compared to 20 years ago.' | 2009 study suggested daily statin could reduce leg blood clots that can travel to the lungs, but latest review found no such link .
More than 7million Britons take the cholesterol-lowering drugs . |
236,393 | bdfa98c7ab7a7fc4d586f5e933b59e0fb8286571 | A company has created a revolutionary cylindrical tool kit for campers, hikers and even those who are afraid of a zombie apocalypse. Called the VSSL Outdoor Utility Tools, it consists of tubes each just 7.8 inches (20cm) long but holds an impressive essential 15 items. Each of the items, including a compass and matches, can be taken and put back into the cylinders as required. Scroll down for video . An inventor in Vancouver has designed multi-tool cylinders. Called VSSL Outdoor Utility Tools (shown) they contain supplied for hikers. These include matches, ropes, razor blades and much more. All of the items fit into small handheld cylinders that cost £50 ($80) each . Inventor Todd Weimer from Vancouver is currently seeking funding for the gadget on Kickstarter. 1) Dual mode LED flashlight (static and SOS) includes batteries . 2) Compass (oil filled) 3) 4 hour pure Canadian beeswax candle . 4) Razor blade . 5) 6 Aquatabs water purification tablets . 6) Wire saw (high tensile, 60lb working strength with handle straps) 7) Aluminum beadless emergency whistle . 8) Waterproof matches . 9) Tinder Quik fire starters . 10) Fishing Gear . 11) Signalling Mirror . 12) Kevlar rope (150lb breaking strength) 13) Reflective trail markers . 14) P38 military GI Type can opener . 15) First aid supplies . The cylinders come in four different forms, each with different tools . They are called supplies, shelter, first aid and zombie. Each costs about £50 ($80), although all four can be bought for £140 ($225). The supplies kit costs the most items and includes things like a flashlight, compass, matches and more. The shelter kit contains a tent, rope, compass and flashlight. And the first aid cylinder predictably contains first aid supplies. However, while all of those can be classed as useful, the 'zombie' kit is a more tongue-in-cheek design for those afraid of the apocalypse. Originally this had been planned to contain a 'zombie spike' but Kickstarter ordered the company to remove this as they have a no weapons rule. So instead it now apparently contains a 'zombie pacifying bouquet of flowers' the team joke on Kickstarter. Each cylinder holds an impressive 15 essential items. All of the items fit into tiny 'capsules', are then placed into the larger cylinder. Pictured here is the first aid kit . The cylinders come in four different forms, each with different tools. They are called supplies, shelter, first aid and zombie. There are many different items available including matches (shown) All of the items, which fit into tiny 'capsules', are then placed into the small two inches (5cm) wide tool 'box'. The unique device can then be easily placed into bags and even fits in trouser pockets. It comes with tools including a first aid kit, compass, matches, whistle, razor blade, mirror, can opener, LED light, a wire saw and more. The cylindrical tool kits are made from seamless extruded military specification aluminium. 'It was something I've been thinking about since I was a child growing up in Northern Canada,' said Mr Weimer. 'I knew there were inadequate self-contained survival and emergency supplies for your average person. 'It is an essential piece of kit which would benefit anyone venturing outdoors with the potential of getting lost or injured. 'It contains essential survival supplies in a nearly indestructible and waterproof case.' | An inventor in Vancouver has designed multi-tool cylinders .
Called VSSL Outdoor Utility Tools they contain supplied for hikers .
These include matches, ropes, razor blades and much more .
All of the items fit into small handheld cylinders that cost £50 ($80) each .
And there's even a tongue-in-cheek version for a zombie apocalypse . |
277,230 | f32b90888d742a8f6adf99a568018bcf33d8a2fd | Brazilian heartthrob Neymar may have the facial hair of a post-diet Santa Claus, but he still appears to have no problem partying with the ladies - even when wearing a ridiculous cap backwards. Pictured enjoying a night out in Florianopolis - 700km south of Sao Paulo, Brazil - the Barcelona forward was spotted catching up with his friends at a nightclub in Jurere. The snapback-clad poster boy posed for photographs as he soaked up the party atmosphere at the night-time get-together. Neymar (in blue cap) partied with a group of friends at the nightclub in the city of Jurere, southern Brazil . The Brazilian star, who is idolised in his home nation Brazil, was pictured spending time with his sister . And the superstar looked very relaxed during his winter break and Barcelona hope he will come back suitably refreshed in January. As Neymar frolicked, his Barcelona team-mate Andres Iniesta was thinking ahead to the work at hand, as they trail rivals Real Madrid at the peak of La Liga table. 'At the moment we're not even contemplating ending the year without winning any titles,' Iniesta told Spanish paper Marca. 'The squad we have has the quality to do it. Neymar takiing part in a charity football match in Sao Paulo just before Christmas . The forward in action for Barcelona against Paris Saint-Germain in December . 'The important thing is to believe in what we do, in how we do it, and keep improving to reach the team's maximum potential. Ahead of January's Ballon d'Or ceremony, the 30-year-old was clear about who where his allegiances lie. 'I think we have the three best forwards. There is nothing negative to say when you're talking about Leo (Messi), 'Ney' (Neymar) and Luis (Suarez).' | Neymar was spotted at beach side nightclub in Jurere, southern Brazil .
The Brazilian star spent time catching up with his sister Rafaella Beckran .
The Barcelona forward posted pictures of the festivities to his Instagram . |
241,857 | c50376be1508bbd3c7e85fa96940278387e6ba97 | Natalie Hawkins, the gymnastics star's mother, said Missy Parton and her family from Iowa don't know how to care for her daughter's hair . The mother said there are 'no black salons in their area' The 16-year-old double gold medal winner . became the topic of debate on Twitter last week as critics argued that . her ponytail looked messy . The mother of women's gymnastics all-around champion Gabrielle Douglas has blamed her daughter's white host family for failing to correctly care for her hair. Natalie Hawkins, the 16-year-old Flying Squirrel's proud mother who does not live with her daughter, told Fashionista.com that Missy Parton and her family from Iowa 'don't know anything about taking care of her hair'. Miss Douglas moved to their home in order to train with the elite gymnastics coach Liang Chow. It was a move fully supported by Ms Hawkins. She added: 'She [Gabby] lives with a white host family... and there's no black salons in their area [Iowa[] - not one. We had to work really hard to find a stylist to come and do her hair.' Pointing fingers: The mother of U.S. gymnast Gabrielle Douglas, who won her second gold medal last week, has claimed that her host family, including mother Missy Parton, have failed to care for the teenager's hair, above . Support: Gabby's mother (centre) claimed that her host mother (left) knows 'nothing about her hair'. They witnessed the 16-year-old's gold medal win alongside 2008 Olympic gymnastics medalist Shawn Johnson . The teenager said two days ago that she . was a little confused when she logged onto her computer after winning . her second gold medal in three days to discover that people were debating . her pulled-back look. Miss Douglas uses gel, clips and a ponytail holder to keep things in place while she competes, a style she's worn for years. Her mother, who allegedly filed for bankruptcy earlier this year, also touched on her daughter's hair regime which she claims she is still very much apart of. 'She gets relaxer but we try not to relax it too much,' she said. 'It's really been African-American women that have come out and attacked her. They don't know about gymnastics. She has to keep her hair in a ponytail 28-30 hours a week,' Trouble: It seems as though a week of high drama has taken its toll on the Flying Squirrel who fell during a performance on the women's gymnastics balance beam today at the Olympics, seen above . Winner: The teenager, above, became the fourth straight American to win gymnastics' biggest prize . Support: Miss Douglas' mother, above, does not live with her daughter but has been a major supporter . She continued: 'In gymnastics, you're . tumbling around on your hair... any hair stylist will tell you that . foam on African-American hair is destructible. It breaks the hair . horribly.' She added said people began offering their opinions on her daughter's hair months ago. 'I started hearing about [her hair] . earlier this year actually,' she said. 'What is funny is I had someone . come do her hair before the Olympics. We put all this effort into . getting her hair done and they still didn't like it.' She, like many others, are confused over what people don't like about her hair, exactly. 'She didn't have flyaways,' she said. 'When you look at pictures, it's tight back just like everyone else's and all of the girls had the messy ponytails which is just their generation. 'Most of the women who were commenting I think are a little bit older'. Ms Hawkins filed for a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, according to documents submitted earlier this year in Virginia, reported TMZ. The . documents show that Hawkins, who has previously spoken out about . gymnastics being an expensive sport, has debt totalling $79,754.14. Tousled: Critics believe Miss Douglas, above, should have had her hair put up in a neat ballerina-esque bun . The documents state that Hawkins has . assets totalling $163,706.10 and show she owes Capital One, Sprint, and . T-Mobile more than $6,000. Her creditors also include an Orthodontist in . Iowa, where Gabby trained aged 14, and a student loan of $4,350.23. Regardless . of the financial woes, the mother recalled laughing with the sporting . star, who lives with a white host family, when she discovered that . people had been discussing her hair. 'She said,"Really? I won two gold medals . and made history and my hair is trending?",' the mother told the fashion news site. 'So we laughed about it. We . made a huge joke out of it and I was quick to try to diffuse that . situation.' She continued: 'Are . you trying to ruin her self . confidence? She has to go out there and feel good about herself, and if . she feels good about herself on that floor, who are you to criticize . her?' What have you done to help contribute to her dream, that you felt . it necessary to put it out there so that she could see it.' The . young athlete told the Associated Press that she only discovered the . debate after checking online after she had won her second gold medal. 'I . don't know where this is coming from. What's wrong with my hair?' said . Douglas, the first U.S. gymnast to win gold in team and all-around . competition. 'I'm like, "I just made history and people are focused on . my hair?" It can be bald or short, it doesn't matter about [my] hair.' 'Nothing is going to change,' she . said. 'I'm going to wear my hair like this during beam and bar finals. You might as well just stop talking about it.' Not a fan: One user, above, took to the social networking site to announce his disapproval over her hair . Critic: Another Twitter user, above, stated that fixing the teenager's hair would prove an Olympic sport itself . Critics . have argued that her dark locks should in fact mimic the tight, . ballerina-style bun that gymnasts usually tuck their hair into. 'I don't think people should be . worried about that,' she said. 'We're all champions and we're all . winners. I just say that it's kind of, a stupid and crazy thought to . think about my hair.' The bubbly teenager was the first . African-American gymnast to win her sport's biggest prize. She had no . idea she was lighting up social media until she Googled herself hours . after winning her gold medal. In the Flying Squirrel's defense, her . hair had been kept securely in place with ample gel and hair clips as . she has leaped and twirled her way to glory. One user wrote on Twitter: 'Gabby . Douglas gotta [sic] do something with this hair! These clips and this . brown gel residue aint it!'. Another posted: 'In Olympic news, why hasn't anyone tried to fix Gabby Douglas' hair?'. Support: Other users have defended the young athlete, as shown above. They believe the topic is nonsense . Defense: Another user, above, expressed expressed that critics should watch what they say . To which a further user replied: 'That's an Olympic sport too!'. The teenage superstar was also defended on Twitter by her supporters. One . user wrote: 'People busy talking about Gabby Douglas not having her . hair done?? She's busy sweating & WINNING GOLD MEDALS... you're on . TWITTER. Right'. Another . person wrote: 'If you want to ride Gabby Douglas for her hair, you . should be open to her coming over to critique your muscle tone'. A . further user wrote: 'Gaby [sic] Douglas may not have her hair done, but . she accomplished something more than half of us didn't. Focus'. Peculiarly, Miss Douglas' hair is possibly the neatest out of her whole team leading many to wonder what all the fuss is about. Her teammates, Jordyn . Wieber, McKayla Maroney, Alexandra Raisman and Kyla Ross, have each been . spotted with unruly strands of hair poking out of their buns and . ponytails. Hard work: Disappointingly, the teenager came last in today's uneven bars competition, seen above . It may be Miss Douglas' incredible talents that have put her into the firing line as she outshines the rest of the competition. For whatever reason, it is not the first time the styling of black hair has come under debate. Solange Knowles was forced to defend her natural afro, which she wears proudly, after it was slammed by critics who called it 'unkempt' and 'dry as heck'. One even compared her natural locks to those of a homeless person. Miss Douglas finished . last week with a score of 62.232, less than three-tenths ahead of Viktoria Komova . of Russia, to win claim the . all-rounder title. While her U.S. teammates hopped up and . down in the stands, Miss Douglas simply grinned. Up in the stands, her . mother hugged her children and Missy Parton, whose . family Miss Douglas lives with in West Des Moines, Iowa. | Natalie Hawkins, the gymnastics star's mother, said Missy Parton and her family from Iowa don't know how to care for her daughter's hair .
The mother said there are 'no black salons in their area'
The 16-year-old double gold medal winner .
became the topic of debate on Twitter last week as critics argued that .
her ponytail looked messy . |
242,222 | c58052d84c2fe91006145b29607928495dac59bc | (CNN) -- Evelyn Einstein, who spent the last years of her life trying to fight for money generated by her late grandfather Albert's estate, has died, her close friend said Wednesday. The friend, Allen Wilkinson, said the two had just started to work on her memoirs. "She always said her grandfather wasn't this great god of science, to her he was just Grandpa," Wilkinson said. Einstein had been ill for years suffering from heart problems and diabetes. She died at her home in Albany, California, last week, Wilkinson said. Albert Einstein made many contributions to modern science, but it's the videos, bobblehead dolls and Halloween masks using his image that continue to generate millions of dollars long after his death. Evelyn Einstein told CNN she hadn't received a dime from the marketing and sales of Einstein merchandise, while others have profited. "I'm outraged," she told CNN in a February interview, adding that she was a 69-year-old cancer survivor and needed the money for health care. "It's hard for me to believe they would treat the family the way they have, which has been abysmally." Her grandfather, the German-born physicist who formulated the general theory of relativity, bequeathed the literary rights for the more than 75,000 papers and other items in his estate to the Hebrew University of Jerusalem when he died in 1955. The Israeli university also owns the rights to his likeness, using a Los Angeles-based company called Greenlight LLC to handle licensing for items such as Einstein apparel, mugs, puzzles, coins, posters and other collectibles. "What does a bobblehead have to do with a literary estate?" asked Evelyn Einstein, who said she had been ignored by the university in her requests for an arrangement that would allow her to profit from the sales. Just recently she had begun preparations to sue the university. The school responded with a statement saying, "Einstein left all of his intellectual property, encompassing his literary estate and personal papers, to the Hebrew University, including the rights to the use of his image." The statement added that "the income of the university from the use of his image is dedicated to scientific research." Greenlight spokesman Dan Perlet said the company has strict guidelines covering the dozens of annual requests to license the Einstein name, including ones from Disney and Baby Einstein. It asks whether the companies seek to promote the scientists' values, intellectual curiosity and innovation, Perlet said. Einstein, known for his wry sense of humor when he was alive, is paid homage in an animated television show called "Little Einsteins" long after his death. The show, which airs on Disney Playhouse, has generated DVDs, books and toys. The famed physicist was crowned Time magazine's person of the century in 1999, where he was described as "the pre-eminent scientist in a century dominated by science. A memorial service for Evelyn Einstein is planned for June. She requested that her ashes be scattered in the Berkeley, California, marina. | Einstein's granddaughter had been fighting for money from his estate .
Evelyn Einstein had been ill for years with heart problems and diabetes .
She had gotten nothing from the use of Albert Einstein's image on apparel, mugs, etc. |
160,686 | 5bbb6fdc169b3cce21da9dca009286d102a8d862 | Orlando (CNN) -- "Businesses adding jobs" is a headline every elected official loves to read. Sadly, it's one that's getting harder and harder to find because of a policy and regulatory landscape that makes it increasingly difficult for businesses to see why and where creating new jobs makes sense. That's especially true for me and my colleagues in the restaurant industry, who find ourselves facing a plate piled high with more and more federal, state and local regulations. Regulatory mandates flowing from federal health care reform may be the most visible, but the list also includes measures such as new mandatory paid leave provisions that require us to change the way we accommodate employees who need to take time off when they are ill and ever more unrealistic requirements regarding employee meal and rest breaks that, in California for example, force our employees to take breaks in the middle of serving lunch or dinner. This reality is the result of the best intentions. Policymakers working in silos at every level are pushing through regulations that on their face seem to address admirable goals -- that are each directed at outcomes that seem desirable. The cumulative effect of these regulations, however, is significant damage to the hard-working Americans who are the intended beneficiaries. The employer mandate contained in the new health care reform law, for example, forces us to change the way we have offered health care coverage to our full- and part-time workers and, together with all the other looming regulations, causes us to rethink the way we schedule the hourly work force that is at the heart of how we deliver our product to customers. Some suggest we accommodate the costs of new regulations in one of two ways: Accept lower profits, or charge customers more. Neither is a realistic alternative for many businesses, and certainly not for those in our industry. Like most in retail, low profit margins are a fact of life for us for good reason -- low margins are consistent with charging prices our customers can afford. The difficult reality is that neither our shareholders nor our customers -- who are of course, the very working people policymakers champion -- can afford the cost of the unbridled increase in regulation we're experiencing. This is not to say that the restaurant industry should not be appropriately regulated. Food safety and cleanliness standards are just two examples of categories of regulation we welcome given their importance in helping protect two critical elements of our promise to our guests, which are their safety and well-being. So, what are restaurants doing about all of this? We are labor-intensive businesses and always will be, but we're relying more and more on technologies that make our businesses less labor intensive. It's an ominous development considering restaurants' role as a path to opportunity and entrepreneurship. More than half of today's adults worked in food service at some point in their career, for example -- whether as a first job, a way to pay for higher education, a bridge to a new direction in their lives or as a path to a career in restaurant or food service management. To preserve this important driver of economic opportunity, we need policymakers to understand the snowball effect of too many regulations. Their collective effect is to threaten job creation and prevent us in the restaurant industry from doing our part to put our economy back on its feet. Policymakers and pundits bemoan the economic news of the day and chastise the business community for not "investing" or creating jobs to help lead us out of the recession. But through the lens of a business owner, a regulatory "perfect storm" is forming that causes even the most well-intentioned business leaders to pause. Some industries -- including the restaurant industry -- continue to grow and add jobs, but what we see on the horizon puts that at risk. In the year ahead, the company I lead expects to open roughly 80 new locations, each with about 100 jobs. The entire industry projects adding 1.3 million jobs over the next decade, according to the National Restaurant Association. My plea to policymakers is simple: Before you impose another well-meaning mandate, consider the burden we already bear and engage us in conversation. Regulations are not inherently detrimental to growth. Responsible companies such as ours, that have been supportive of the president and elected officials of both parties across the country, won't say "no" to everything and, indeed, what you might find is that we can help craft solutions that truly are better for everyone. Our success depends on our ability to deliver on three promises: a promise to our guests to provide them exceptional dining experiences at appropriate value; a promise to our employees to provide them jobs with appropriate compensation, benefits and opportunity for advancement; and a promise to our shareholders to provide them appropriate returns on their investment. Our ability to deliver on these promises in the future is directly challenged by the regulations we see as we look ahead. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Clarence Otis Jr. | Clarence Otis: Everyone wants to see businesses creating jobs .
As CEO of a major restaurant company, he says regulations are inhibiting job growth .
Otis says state and local rules, combined with health reform, push firms to avoid hiring .
Darden: Rather than hire, companies look for technology to reduce the need for labor . |
276,388 | f21b1af8644bf0ae82cf2ce29670bfa33cc5d741 | Liverpool are revving up their attempts to keep Raheem Sterling from Real Madrid's clutches by offering the wonderkid a bumper new contract. The Anfield club are set to offer the 19-year-old a new contract that will include a sharp increase on his current £30,000-per-week deal as a reward for his excellent displays this year. His current deal still has three years left to run, but Liverpool want to lock the talented youngster down to a longer contact. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Raheem Sterling freestyle with Wayne Rooney . New deal: Sterling will be offered a new contract, despite having three years left to run on his current one . Sterling has established himself as one of Europe's best emerging talents, and was one of only a few England players to enhance his reputation during the World Cup. His performances have not escaped Real Madrid, who are known to be keeping a close eye on the youngster. But Liverpool are anxious to avoid any uncertainty over their whizzkid's future and will look to ward off the Champions League holders' interest. Luis Suarez' departure means even more focus will be thrust upon Sterling's young shoulders during the forthcoming season. Transfer: Rodgers hopes to fend off Real Madrid by offering Sterling significantly more money . But there is a growing feeling at the Anfield club that Sterling is showing the maturity needed to take the added responsibility in his stride. Speaking this week, Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers said: 'This kid is only going to get better. He’s way above the level from when he first came in. 'Tactically, technically, and what has been beautiful to watch with Raheem has been his maturity. 'He’s turning into a beautiful young man, with all the responsibility. He’s still only 19, but in big games he’s performed and he’s a wonderful talent.' Youth: After impressing for QPR's youth team, Raheem Sterling joined Liverpool in 2010 for £600,000 . VIDEO Liverpool desperate to challenge - Enrique . | Liverpool are set to offer Raheem Sterling a new contract .
New deal would be significant increase on £30,000-a-week deal .
Brendan Rodgers wants to do it to ward off Real Madrid . |
259,323 | dbb2e57007a946156ddc3838adde01ea1ddee084 | A pilot had an amazing escape when his plane landed nose-down in a hedge, leaving him hanging upside down inside. But Alan Bray walked away with only a grazed thumb despite being left trapped in the cockpit for 40 minutes, held in by his harness, as witnesses raised the alarm. In true ‘Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines’ spirit, the 59-year-old said afterwards: ‘I’m a bit sore. The pain is simply from the straps. You don’t get scared at the time, you just do what you trained to do. ‘You spend all that time doing practice forced landings, it is just instinctive.’ Alan Bray had a miraculous escape from a plane crash in Warwickshire, emerging from the aircraft embedded upside down in a hedgerow with only a graze on his thumb . The pilot was left trapped in the small two-seater plane, hanging by his harness in the cockpit for forty minutes while shocked residents called the emergency services . More worrying than the crash itself . was being trapped in the plane, he said. ‘I didn’t want to let go. If I . moved I didn’t know what would happen to the thing.’ Mr Bray, who has ten years’ flying . experience, tried to make an emergency landing in the two-seater plane . when its engine had problems shortly after take-off from Wellesbourne . Airfield in Warwickshire. But as he tried to glide it into a . field the engine cut out. After briefly touching down, the light . aircraft smashed through a fence and on to a private road, before . flipping over on its nose and into the hedge. He was forced to attempt a crash landing in a field at Pastures Farm, near the village of Loxley, after what is believed to be an engine failure . Apart from a 'bloody thumb', Mr Bray, who has been flying for ten years, suffered no serious injuries in the crash, and even came back later that day to wrestle his aircraft out of the hedge . Mr Bray even returned to the scene later the same day to help wrestle the aircraft from the hedge . All that stopped the plane from turning over entirely was a power line that its tail got caught on. Paul Van Der Heyden, who lives close . to Loxley village, near Stratford-upon-Avon, called the emergency . services after hearing the crash on Tuesday morning and spotting the . plane in its unusual resting place. Another resident, Tori Danle, stayed with Mr Bray, of Rugby, while they waited for firemen to free him. The Midlands Air Ambulance also came, touching down in the same field Mr Bray had tried to land in. After he was freed, he was given the . all-clear by paramedics. But the plane, which he part-owns with five . friends, will probably have to be written off. The only thing that saved him from flipping over entirely was an electric line that the plane's tail got caught on . | Alan Bray, 59, was left hanging by harness in cockpit for 40 minutes .
Plane plummeted into hedgerows after a suspected engine failure .
But experience pilot suffered no serious injuries apart from 'bloody thumb' |
203,794 | 93d71b5f0234a514eb66a0142e097b1a6ebf8a58 | By . Anthony Bond . PUBLISHED: . 11:09 EST, 14 June 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:19 EST, 14 June 2013 . Controversial: German chancellor Angela Merkel has said unemployed youngsters in the Eurozone should be prepared to move for work . German chancellor Angela Merkel has risked incurring the wrath of struggling eurozone countries by saying unemployed youngsters should be prepared to move for work. Describing the current levels of unemployment across the eurozone as a 'huge crisis', Merkel said there would need to be more mobility among its workforce. Her comments come after recent figures showed unemployment had soared to a record high of close to 20million. The figures showed youth unemployment had surged to a devastating 24.4 per cent – meaning one . in four Europeans under the age of 25 who want work cannot find a job. Speaking to the BBC, Merkel said that when unemployment among young people in her own area of East . Germany had risen 'many young people... only had jobs because they . moved to the south'. She added: 'I think it's unfair that it is the young people especially who have to pay the bill for something they didn't do. 'But there's no way around it. We have to manufacture products or offer services in Europe that we can sell.' Her comments are likely to prove controversial in countries such as Spain and Greece which have previously criticised Merkel as they struggle against rising unemployment. During her interview, Merkel also maintained that the policy with trying to drag Europe out of the crisis was correct. She told how the issue is not austerity but how to get back to growth. She also . defended the policy of tight controls on spending. Speaking following the latest unemployment figures released last month, Anatoli Annenkov, senior European economist at French bank Societe Generale, said the worst-hit countries are at risk of a ‘lost generation’ who will never find work. It is feared that rocketing unemployment . – particularly among the young – will fuel resentment against the euro . and trigger a break-up of the single currency bloc. Worrying: Chancellor Merkel's comments come after recent figures showed unemployment had soared to a record high of close to 20million . The European Commission warned that unemployment across the region is ‘unacceptably high’ and threatens ‘grave social consequences’. French president Francois Hollande said it could lead to the breakdown of Europe. ‘Citizens are turning their backs on Europe and the construction of the European project,’ he said. German finance minister Wolfgang Schaeuble said European ‘unity’ was at risk. Italian labour minister Enrico Giovannini said: ‘We have to rescue an entire generation of young people who are scared.’ | Chancellor Merkel said eurozone's workforce needed to be more mobile .
She said the policy with trying to drag Europe out of crisis was correct .
Youth unemployment has surged to a devastating 24.4 per cent . |
270,287 | ea0d9f83bcfe5d939bb4cddd2a27e057572f3ab2 | By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 07:35 EST, 30 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 13:04 EST, 30 May 2013 . A gadget fan has become the first in the person in the world to propose to his girlfriend through smart headset Google Glass. Breon Nagy, from Minnesota, used the wearable computing device to record the memorable occasion earlier this month. He then posted the video, shot at Britain's Leeds Castle in Kent, on YouTube. Will you marry me? A gadget fan has become the first person to propose to his girlfriend through smart headset Google Glass. Breon Nagy used the wearable computing device to record the occasion . Big moment: Let's start our adventure together,' he tells his girlfriend as he goes down on one knee,' changing the perspective of the footage.'Will you marry me? he asks . In the 26 second clip Mr Nagy's girlfriend Amanda Ingle can be seen standing on a balcony at the side of lake. Mr Nagy describes himself as 'Product Manager by day. Gadget enthusiast by night,' then sets about his proposal. 'If you were my Queen I would buy you a million castles,' he says as his confused girlfriend starts to smile. I do! After presenting her with the ring Ms Ingle can be seen slipping it on to her finger delightedly . Seal the deal: Only Miss Ingle's forehead can be seen as she leans in for a kiss to seal the deal . Proposal: Mr Nagy wore Google Glass, a high-tech pair of spectacles with in-built hands-free video camera . 'Let's start our adventure together,' he tells Ms Ingle as he goes down on one knee,' changing the perspective of the footage. 'Will you marry me? he asks. 'Yes! Of course I will,' she adds as her voice starts to break. After presenting her with the ring, Ms Ingle can be seen slipping it on to her finger delightedly. The designer then leans in to kiss him and seal the deal - the video cuts as the pair start to kiss - full sounds captured on the footage. Mr Nagy wrote on his YouTube page: 'I was carrying the ring around with me for 2 days and finally decided that Leeds Castle was a good place to ask her to marry me. Earlier she asked me to buy her a castle, that's why I said what I did.' | Breon Nagy, from Minnesota, proposed to his girlfriend at Leeds Castle .
He used the wearable computing device to record the memorable occasion . |
77,996 | dd144a9ff556f713a6a1e0ab04fe8ea6041311f6 | On the surface, it resembles just about any other high school in Japan -- or any high school in most places around the world. Students sit quietly studying math, science and English; some struggle to stay focused, looking at the clock and waiting for the bell to ring. When the school day ends, some move out to the sports fields for rugby or soccer practice, while others study music in emptying hallways. What makes this school different is the pictures of two men scattered throughout the building -- portraits of North Korea's founder Kim Il Sung and previous leader Kim Jong Il. The Tokyo Korean Middle and High School, which is currently home to 650 students, is one of 10 high schools in Japan with long standing ties to North Korea. It's something the school's principal, Gil-ung Shin, is very open about. "Yes, North Korea has given us financial support over the years, sending us money and textbooks," he says. The school also organizes annual trips to Pyongyang, where students are given highly orchestrated tours of the reclusive North Korean capital. But the students we spoke with laughed at suggestions from some quarters that they are being trained as spies. "People think we're being brain-washed. We're not. We just want to study Korean culture and language," 17-year-old Kyong Rae Ha says. Sang Yong Lee, also 17, laughs at such notions, saying, "No, I'm not being trained to be a spy. This is just a place where I can show my pride as a Korean, living in Japan." In fact, most of the students were born in Japan, as were many of their parents and grandparents. Korea was a Japanese colony until the end of the Second World War, and many Koreans were brought to Japan -- many against their will -- before the country was eventually divided between north and south. But the mistrust runs deep, and many Japanese are wary of such schools. Fresh on the minds of many in Japan is North Korea's admitted kidnapping of Japanese citizens from Japanese soil in the 1970s and 1980s. Pyongyang says it considers the matter resolved, but Japan has long demanded more answers. North Korea's strategic posture has also alarmed Japan. There's concern over an imminent nuclear test by North Korea -- which would be its third since 2006. And in December, Pyongyang launched a rocket that it said put the Shining Star-3 satellite into orbit. But that is only a small part of the equation. Amid increasingly threatening rhetoric from North Korea towards its neighbors and the U.S., Japan's new Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is steadfastly refusing to consider requests for government funding for any pro-Pyongyang schools in Japan. It's a high stakes battle for millions of dollars. The students and their families argue they should get help with tuition from the central government, and the school should receive subsidies from local prefectures. They argue that they are no different from the students at other international schools in Japan, which are afforded such luxuries. "We pay the same taxes as everyone else," Kyong Rae Ha says. "It makes me angry as well as sad." Shin acknowledges the abductions, and says the students learn about the crimes. And when we ask about the ever-present portraits of North Korea's leaders -- portraits that also hang in his office -- and whether he's thought of taking them down, he says it's simply a way of saying thanks to those who've helped fund the school over the years. But he adds, "We don't force the students to pledge their loyalty to anyone. "I just feel bad that my students are caught in the middle of all of this." | Tokyo Korean Middle and High School one of 10 schools in Japan with ties to North Korea .
Portraits of N. Korea's founder Kim Il Sung and previous leader Kim Jong Il hang on walls .
17-year-old Kyong Rae Ha: We just want to study Korean culture and language .
Most of the students were born in Japan, which colonized united Korea until after WWII . |
245,888 | ca4155d46abff6876eef79fce837c39d06f3d459 | Most people couldn't recall what row they were sitting in on a plane they boarded three years ago but a Brisbane couple have very good reason to remember every detail of the flight. Holly and Tim Moffitt sat next to each other in row 4 on a Virgin flight from Brisbane to Canberra on April 7 in 2011. During the two-hour trip, the strangers talked endlessly and exchanged contact details to meet again and the rest, as they say, is history. Holly's stepfather, Dean White, thought it would be a fitting gesture to ask Virgin Australia to write a letter congratulating them on their wedding day on October 25 this year - but the airline company went above and beyond this special request. Scroll down for video . Holly and Tim met on a plane from Brisbane to Canberra three years ago and the rest is history . Louise and Sarah from Virgin guest services raise their glass of bubbles in a video made for the newlyweds . The couple were overwhelmed by the video which was shown at their reception in Tweed Heads in NSW . The blissfully happy couple when Tim popped the question to an ecstatic Holly in Thailand 12 months ago . A thoughtful video was produced with staff members from all departments getting involved to congratulate the Brisbane couple. Staff members, Louise and Sarah, start the string of touching messages with Sarah saying: . 'Who would’ve thought all of those years ago when you sat in row 4 as complete strangers that it was meant to be – have a great day.' Then the video goes into the cockpit of the plane with Captain Chris Hartley who was joined by Officer Daniel Lloyd. 'We hope the fastened seat belt isn’t switched on or too often for any turbulence throughout your relationship – we wish you a smooth and enjoyable ride,' Officer Lloyd said. Baggage handlers, Andrew and Nathan, gave their own piece of advice: 'Whilst we deal with baggage every day - to avoid that baggage make sure you clearly communicate to one another and have a fantastic and loving and long marriage.' The video ends with Louise and Sarah toasting their glasses of bubbles to the happy couple. Captain Chris Hartley (left) joined by Officer Daniel Lloyd (right) wished them a smooth and enjoyable ride . They couldn't have known stepping onto the plane all those years ago that their lives would be changed forever . Baggage handlers, Andrew and Nathan, advised the couple in the video to communicate to avoid any baggage . Mr White said the footage received an rousing response at the wedding reception at Tweed Heads in Northern NSW - particularly from the overwhelmed couple. 'They were blown away, and really appreciated the efforts of those involved,' he said. 'Everyone at the reception cheered and applauded.' Even though Mr white had discussed the video with Virgin in the week and a half leading up to the wedding, he did no expect great footage, . 'We were really impressed by the extra distance mile that Virgin Australia had gone to, especially as it started out as a reasonably small request for a congratulation letter to read out at the reception,' he said. 'When we watched it we knew that everyone would love it.' During the two-hour trip, the strangers talked endlessly and exchanged contact details to meet again . The couple could never have known stepping onto that plane all those years ago - when Holly was jetting off to visit her parents while Tim was heading to a family wedding - that their lives would be changed forever. Mr White said when his daughter arrived in Canberra she was clearly smitten with the stranger she had been chatting to for the past couple of hours. 'She could not stop telling us about the great guy she had met on the flight,' he said. The couple's starkly different personalities made them a compatible match. 'Let’s just say they were keen on each other from the start,' Mr White said. 'They are polar opposites which completely complement each other. But the fairytale doesn't end there - the couple will return from their honeymoon in India to be told Virgin has offered them return flights to anywhere in Australia. The couple will return from their honeymoon in India to be told Virgin has offered them return flights to anywhere in Australia . | Holly and Tim Moffitt met on a Virgin flight on April 7 in 2011 .
The strangers sat next to each other in row 4 from Brisbane to Canberra .
Love blossomed and the couple got married on October 25 this year .
Holly's dad asked Virgin to write a congratulatory letter to the newlyweds .
But Virgin decided to produce a video with staff congratulating the couple .
Couple were offered return Virgin flights to anywhere in Australia .
They don't know of this gift yet as they are on honeymoon in India . |
191,104 | 837abb4b11793daafe80e7fe71d1b1f980da4c3e | By . Mark Howarth . PUBLISHED: . 19:12 EST, 2 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 19:13 EST, 2 August 2013 . We all like to think we would be a hero in a crisis – but research shows that most people would run a mile. And the meek, sensing injustice, are more likely to respond rather than the brash and self confident. Tests on students in Germany found they all insisted they would react but only 26 per cent – mostly quieter personalities – did intervene when they saw a mobile phone being ‘stolen’ in a stunted scene six months later. Meek people, sensing injustice, are more likely to respond rather than the brash and self confident when witnessing a crime (file picture) The report – published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin – concluded: ‘Participants appear to overestimate their moral courage when responding to vignettes.’ Dr Cynthia McVey, of Glasgow Caledonian University, said: ‘The results emphasise a basic Christian tenet that the meek shall inherit the Earth.’ Every student in the test claimed they would intervene, with the strongest reactions coming from those who believe themselves to be strong characters . Academics from Koblenz-Landau University . in Germany gathered together 65 students who sat character assessments . and then, six months later, were recalled and asked how they would react . if they saw a theft. The imagined scenario involved the witness sitting in a laboratory waiting for another female student to arrive so a test can start. A staff member reveals that a mobile phone lying on a nearby table belongs to someone who is returning to retrieve it that evening. The missing student then arrives and, when the tester leaves the room for a moment, the woman reaches across and pockets the phone. Every witness claimed they would intervene, with the strongest reactions coming from those who believe themselves to be strong characters, socially confident and unfazed by the status of others. Researchers then repeated the experiment with 68 different students - though this time they enacted the crime as if for real. Only 18 people – 26 per cent – intervened and continued to protest, bringing the matter to the attention of the member of staff when he returned to the lab. Just one personality trait was found to be significant in the heat of the moment: a sensitivity to seeing a third party unfairly disadvantaged. | Students in Germany all insisted they would react to witnessing crime .
But only 26 per cent intervened when they saw the crime take place .
Those with quieter personalities were the most likely to intervene . |
260,665 | dd89b5d59e7a5bd9cf2e15afc98d1a3058334e8b | By . Anna Edwards . PUBLISHED: . 09:00 EST, 28 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 02:28 EST, 29 May 2013 . A French Open tennis player who was so enraged by an umpire's call that his shot was out decided to take matters into his own hands. Sergiy Stakhovsky, of Ukraine, used his iPhone to photograph the mark left in the clay by the ball and 'prove' that the ball was in. The tennis-player set down his racket and briefly became a photographer in his 6-1, 6-4, 6-3 loss to seventh-seeded Richard Gasquet of France in the first round of the Grand Slam tournament yesterday. Who needs the Hawk-Eye? Ukraine's Sergiy Stakhovsky takes a picture with his smart phone after contesting the decision of the umpire . Ukraine's Sergiy Stakhovsky, left, argues the decision in his first round match against Richard Gasquet of France at the French Open . Stakhovsky's photograph, with the mark made by the ball circled . Stakhovsky plans to show the picture to the tournament supervisor in hopes of avoiding losing some of his prize money. 'I'm now expecting a fine, actually, so I'm going to go and fight,' Stakhovsky said. 'I believe it was a bad call, it was a bad judgment. After all, we are playing on clay, where you should be clearly able to read the mark, and unfortunately, not all of our referees are able to do so.' During the first set on Court Suzanne Lenglen, the 101st-ranked Stakhovsky hit a shot that landed right along a line. The ball was ruled out, but Stakhovsky was sure it was in. He argued with the chair umpire, Carlos Ramos, who wouldn't change the decision. Stakhovsky decided to gather proof for . his case, getting his phone and walking over to where the spot in . question was, then leaning over to get a close-up of the red clay. After Stakhovsky argued with umpire Carlos Ramos, who wouldn't change the decision, he decided to gather proof for his case . Stakhovsky plans to show the picture to the tournament supervisor in hopes of avoiding losing some of his prize money . 'It was just spontaneous. It's never thought through,' he said. 'When you see it, you get frustrated, because you saw the ball is nowhere being out and the frustrations comes in.' Twitter fans said that Hawk-Eye - a computer system used in tennis and cricket to track the ball's trajectory and can be used to aid the adjudication process - was now redundant in comparison to the quick-thinking Ukrainian. Stakhovsky said he had pulled a similar stunt during the . clay-court tournament at Munich last month. 'Munich was a very close call which could go both ways, so I didn't really bother going to the supervisor and asking. 'But . this one is in a Grand Slam, so first of all, the fine is actually . there, possibly, (and) I don't want to get it. So I'll try to explain . myself. I don't know if it's going to work.' Sergiy Stakhovsky of Ukraine (left) hits a return to Richard Gasquet of France during their men's singles match . At a clay event in Rome this month another professional, Viktor Troicki of Serbia, ushered a TV cameraman out onto the court to get video evidence of a ball mark he was sure showed a call was incorrect. 'I saw that,' Stakhovsky said, then offered a critique of the camerawork on that occasion, saying the angle was all wrong: 'They came from the side, so you couldn't see the mark.' Gasquet, for his part, agreed the call Monday was quite close and said he wasn't bothered a bit by Stakhovsky's antics. 'It's funny. It's not a problem,' Gasquet said. 'He's a funny guy. 'I think he's one of the funniest guys in the draw. For sure, it's not usual to see that, but I can understand he's frustrated.' The row between player and umpire is the latest in a string of heated arguments in tennis history. In 1981 John McInroe had a famous outburst after becoming infuriated at an umpire's decision. After his first-round match at Wimbledon against Tom Gullikson, McEnroe was fined $1,500 and was nearly ejected after rowing with umpire Ted James, swearing at tournament referee Fred Hoyles and shouting 'you cannot be serious' after he disagreed with their call. In 1995 Jeff Tarango was playing in a third round match in Wimbledon against Alexander Mronz.He became became infuriated with umpire Bruno Rebeuh, who had ruled against him on several occasions. As the crowd heckled Tarango he told them to 'shut up' which led to Rebeuh giving him a code violation to Tarango, claiming the phrase was an audible obscenity. Tarango called for Rebeuh to be removed but he was told to play one - to which he responded by accusing Rebeuh of being 'o'ne of the most corrupt officials in the game' - to this Rebeuh gave Tarango another code violation, this time for unsportsmanlike conduct. Tarango then stormed off the court. | Sergiy Stakhovsky, of Ukraine, put down racket to take photo of mark in clay .
Argued with chair umpire, Carlos Ramos, who wouldn't change the decision .
Wants to show photo that proves his shot was 'in' to tournament supervisor . |
4,597 | 0d3c0bbf7f72beaa110ee7482450d5afbd74687f | CLICK HERE to read Martin Samuel's match report of Ludogorets 2-2 Liverpool. CLICK HERE to read Michael Gadd's match report of Basle 0-1 Real Madrid. Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti expects Basle to progress in the Champions League at Liverpool's expense - because they are a fitter side. The defending champions, who had already qualified for the last 16, earned a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Basle at St Jakob-Park on Wednesday to cement their place at the top of Group B on 15 points. Liverpool, meanwhile, were pegged back by Ludogorets in Bulgaria, succumbing to a 2-2 after the home side grabbed an 88th-minute equaliser through Georgi Terziev. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Sportsmail's Big Match Stats: Basle 0-1 Real Madrid . Liverpool's Steven Gerrard and Rickie Lambert look dejected after George Terziev equalised for Ludogorets . Carlo Ancelotti (left), embracing Basle manager Paulo Sousa, expects the Swiss champions to progress to the last 16 of the Champions League at the expense of Liverpool in a fortnight's time . Jordan Henderson, Lucas and other Liverpool players look dejected as they contemplate a long flight back . That leaves the Reds in third-place, level on four points with Ludogorets, and two behind Basle - who they must beat in their final group match at Anfield in order to progress. But Real boss Ancelotti does not believe Brendan Rodgers' side are fit enough to beat the Swiss champions and expects to see Basle in the last-16 draw. Speaking after the win, he said: 'They're (Basle are) in better shape than Liverpool at the moment, they are in very good physical condition. 'At this moment Basle have a slight advantage.' 'They caused us some problems in the second part. We fought hard and that's why we won.' Basle's Breel Embolo, whose shot is saved by Keylor Navas, epitomised the fitness of the home side . Cristiano Ronaldo wheels away after bundling home from close range to give Real the lead at St Jakob Park . Ancelotti (right) talks to Ronaldo during Real Madrid's 1-0 victory over Swiss champions Basle . Goals from Rickie Lambert and Jordan Henderson had appeared to give Liverpool - who fell behind early to a Dani Abalo strike - victory at the Ludogorets Arena, only for Terziev to pop up with the goal which ensures they must now secure three points from their final league goal. However, in Basle Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 71st Champions League goal to move joint-second in the all-time scoring list alongside Real legend Raul, and three behind Barcelona's Lionel Messi. Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates the opening goal for Real Madrid - his 71st in the Champions League . Georgi Terziev (third left) scores a late header to make it 2-2 to leave Liverpool having to beat Basle in their final game to progress to the last 16 of the Champions League this season . Terziev runs off in celebration after scoring the equaliser for Ludogorets in the final minutes . | Real Madrid beat Basle 1-0 at St Jakob-Park in Switzerland on Wednesday .
Liverpool drew 2-2 against Ludogorets in Bulgaria in Champions League .
Reds must beat Basle at Anfield in two weeks in order to reach last 16 .
But Real boss Carlo Ancelotti expects Basle to progress instead .
He believes Basle are 'in better shape physically' than Liverpool are . |
29,962 | 552c0d125c15b93183fb961d94d5f49d197da04c | A woman is 'absolutely mortified' after calling police and wildlife experts to her home to deal with an escaped crocodile - which turned out to be an inflatable toy. The mother-of-one was horrified to spot the 3ft green reptile outside her kitchen window in Plymouth, at 12.20pm. She asked two neighbours for assistance but called police after they agreed it was too dangerous to approach the creature unarmed. Officers from Devon and Cornwall Police attended and called a team of wildlife experts from Dartmoor Zoo, who set off with snare poles, nets and riot shields. Scroll down for video . The mother-of-one, from Plymouth, was horrified to see the 3ft reptile lurking outside her kitchen window . Neighbours agreed it was not safe to approach the creature and police officers came to the rescue - and realised it was an inflatable toy . The officers threw water over the crocodile from a safe distance and gingerly approached when it did not move. It was then that they realised it was an inflatable toy. It was removed from the garden and placed in police custody, while the Dartmoor Zoo team were stood down. 'I was making my lunch in the kitchen and looked out into the back garden,' the home owner, who did not wish to be named, said. 'It was pouring with rain and I saw what I thought was a crocodile in the garden. I went to my neighbour's house to ask if they would come and have a look at it. 'They did think it was a baby crocodile and suggested calling the RSPCA or the police but we decided to call the police as I have a three-year-old and was worried. 'A policeman and a policewoman arrived and at that point we were all a bit suspicious because it hadn't moved. Devon and Cornwall police tweeted the incident on their official account and later expressed their relief . 'One of the police officers bravely went out to have a look. They threw water on it and it didn't move. I'm absolutely mortified.' A spokesman for Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that officers attended the incident following the woman's call at 12.20pm. 'We received a call from a concerned member of the public reporting that an escaped crocodile was in their garden, approximately 3ft in length,' the force spokesman said. 'The caller was concerned for her child and the RSPCA and Dartmoor Zoo were informed and on their way to the zoo. 'Police officers attended and bravely investigated. The beast turned out to be an inflatable toy crocodile. Police have apprehended the crocodile.' A spokesman for Dartmoor Zoo said experts were regularly called out to deal with escaped pets including lizards and snakes. He said the zoo received a call from police at around 12.30pm and assembled a team to attend the garden within 15 minutes. 'The team were on the road with all the equipment needed,' the zoo spokesman said. 'They were halfway there when we received a call from the police to say it was a toy. 'Our team have a variety of equipment to deal with such situations, including snare poles, nets on poles and riot shields. 'We also have dart guns but did not bring them on this occasion.' | Mother-of-one horrified to spot a 3ft crocodile outside kitchen window .
Called police after neighbours agreed it was too dangerous to approach .
Reptile was removed from garden in Plymouth and placed in police custody . |
149,648 | 4d7ea89fd66b3ca78153d955cfe6fbb60678e99c | David Cameron was today forced to defend the fawning tributes paid to King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia – despite his country’s shameful record on human rights. The Prime Minister insisted Britain needs a relationship with oil giants in the Middle East, regardless of their legal systems. And he revealed that Saudi Arabia supplied a piece of counter-terrorism intelligence that saved hundreds of lives in Britain. Scroll down for video . David Cameron, pictured today, insisted Britain needs a relationship with oil giants in the Middle East, regardless of their legal systems . Mr Cameron was heavily criticised last month after flags flew at half mast over Buckingham Palace, Downing Street and the Houses of Parliament to mark the death of King Abdullah. The Prime Minister jetted to the Gulf with Prince Charles to pay tribute to the authoritarian and hugely powerful monarch. Ruth Davidson, the leader of the Scottish Conservatives, condemned the decision to fly flags at half mast as ‘a steaming pile of nonsense’. She added that it was a ‘stupid act on its own and a stupid precedent to set’. Saudi Arabia, which last year is reported to have carried out 87 beheadings, has attracted further outrage after the first public flogging of blogger Raif Badawi, 31, who was sentenced to 1,000 lashes and ten years in jail for highlighting the kingdom’s harsh laws on dissent. Mr Cameron was taking part in a Sky News Q&A with young people at the Facebook headquarters in London . But Mr Cameron insisted that concerns about human rights had to be weighed against co-operation from Saudi Arabia in cracking down on terrorists. The Prime Minister insisted his first duty was to protect the public, even if that means doing business with regimes he 'didn't always agree with'. Appearing on the Ask The Leaders event organised by Sky News and Facebook, Mr Cameron said: 'I can tell you one time since I've been Prime Minister, a piece of information that we have been given by that country has saved potentially hundreds of lives here in Britain. 'Now, you can be Prime Minister and say exactly what you think about every regime in the world and make great headlines, and give great speeches. 'But I think my first job is to try and keep this country safe from terrorism and if that means you have to build strong relationships sometimes with regimes you don't always agree with, that I think is part of the job and that is the way I do it. And that is the best way I can explain it.' Mr Cameron offered his condolences to Saudi Arabia's new King Salman during his visit to the Middle East . The Prime Minister jetted to the Gulf with Prince Charles to pay tribute to the authoritarian and hugely powerful monarch . Flags were flown at half mast across Westminster following the death of the authoritarian ruler of Saudi Arabia King Abdullah - including at Buckingham Palace . Mr Cameron was asked whether the relationship with Saudi Arabia was based on the fact it had huge oil reserves. In a bluntly honest response he admitted: 'Yes, of course. Of course Britain needs to have relationships with countries we trade with, including those that we buy oil and gas from. We can't make all our oil and gas here in the UK, we're doing well because we've got North Sea Oil,' he said. Mr Cameron stressed that he raised human rights with regimes that had dubious records. 'It's perfectly possible to go to those countries as I do and raise human rights abuses. 'In fact I would argue that if you have a relationship with them and you have a way of talking to them they are more likely to listen to you than if you just cut yourself off.' Supporters of King Abdullah, who was succeeded by his 79-year-old half-brother Salman, claim that the absolute ruler followed a difficult path maintaining good relations with the West – Saudi Arabia is a key ally in the war on terror as well as an important business partner for the UK – while putting into place mild reforms. Soon after his death, Mr Cameron said the king ‘will be remembered for his long years of service to the Kingdom, for his commitment to peace and for strengthening understanding between faiths’. | Prime Minister challenged over fawning tributes to Saudi monarch .
He flew out with Prince Charles despite country's human rights record .
Cameron insisted Britain needs a relationship with oil-producing nations .
Revealed Saudi Arabia counter-terrorism intelligence that saved hundreds . |
207,445 | 989ad10e299f5cf0ab81e7a50bac9a81b3bc08ab | By . Damien Gayle . PUBLISHED: . 04:27 EST, 13 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 07:20 EST, 13 March 2013 . Japan has become the first country in the world to succeed in extracting methane gas from a previously untapped off-shore fossil fuel resource that has been dubbed 'fire ice'. Methane hydrate, a sherbet-like substance buried beneath continental shelves around the world, has been tipped by energy experts to be the next major energy resource. Consisting of methane trapped in ice, it was previously believed to only exist in the outer reaches of the solar system - but now scientists are saying it could be 'the new shale gas'. Fire ice: Balls of methane hydrate are set . alight as part of a demonstration. Japanese scientists have become the first to work out how to extract pure gas . from the substance found under the continental shelves . State-run Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corp (JOGMEC) said the gas was tapped from deposits of methane hydrate near the country's central coast. Japan, which imports nearly all of its energy needs, has since 2001 invested several hundred million pounds in developing technology to tap methane hydrate reserves off its coast. Japan is the world's top importer of liquefied natural gas and the lure of domestic gas resources has become greater since the Fukushima nuclear crisis two years ago triggered a shake-up of the country's energy sector. Japan's trade ministry said the production tests will continue for about two weeks, followed by analysis on how much gas was produced. It is hoped that they can achieve commercial production within six years. 'The new shale gas': An aerial view shows deep-sea drilling vessel "Chikyu" in the Pacific, off Aichi Prefecture, central Japan, as it hunts for methane hydrate reserves to exploit . Gas flames expelled from a burner on the Chikyu: Methane hydrate, a sherbet-like substance buried beneath continental shelves around the world, has been tipped by energy experts to be the next major energy resource . Methane is a major component of . natural gas and governments including Canada, the U.S., Norway and China . are also looking at exploiting hydrate deposits as an alternative . source of energy. In . February last year UK government ministers and experts suggested that . massive quantities methane hydrate could also be locked beneath the . coast of western Shetland. Energy . Minister Charles Hendry said at the time that the government believes . it is ‘possible’ that the substance is buried in Scottish waters. ‘The presence of methane hydrates in deep waters west of Shetland is possible, but has not been established,' he said. 'In . the absence of any commercial technology for exploiting such resources, . no estimate of reserves can be made at the present time.’ That could be about to change thanks . to the new method developed by Japanese scientists to extract gas from . methane hydrate reserves off their country's coast. Methane hydrate is formed within marine sediments or beneath permafrost where chemical reactions or microbes break down organic matter to produce gas which then freezes under high pressure . Distribution of known and suspected methane hydrate accumulations around the globe: It has been tipped by energy experts to be the world's next major energy resource . Methane hydrate has long been regarded by oil and gas companies as a nuisance, because it can block marine drilling rigs. The substance is formed within marine sediments where the gas is generated by chemical reactions or by microbes breaking down organic matter. The gas then works its way up to the sea bed where sediments tend to be much cooler. The cooling allows the methane molecules to form weak chemical bonds with the surrounding water molecules, producing solid methane hydrate. However, such bonds also require high pressure - so methane hydrate forms only in deep water. Engineers used depressurisation to turn methane hydrate to methane gas, a process thought by the government to be more effective than using the hot water circulation method the country had tested successfully in 2002. In 2008, JOGMEC successfully demonstrated for the first time a nearly six-day continuous period of production of methane gas from hydrate reserves held deep in permafrost in Canada, using the depressurisation method. Methane hydrate, is formed from a mixture of methane and water under certain pressure and conditions. A Japanese study has estimated the existence of at least 40trillion cubic feet (1.1 trillion cubic metres) of methane hydrates in the eastern Nankai Trough off the country's Pacific coast . That's estimate to equal about 11 years of Japanese gas consumption. Japan's LNG imports hit a record 87.3million tonnes last year after Japan shut down most of its nuclear power plants following the Fukushima nuclear disaster two years ago. | Methane hydrate has been tipped as the next major energy resource .
It was previously believed to exist only in outer space .
But scientists say there is enough near Japan for 11 years' gas usage . |
211,178 | 9d7d51a407626b73c3c1db8eef641e14092f35ed | By . Andy Dolan . Last updated at 9:25 AM on 14th February 2012 . After five years of watching vehicles speed through his village at up to 98mph, Kevin McCarthy decided something had to be done. Exasperated at the council’s failure to lower the speed limit or install a speed camera, he built a dummy camera on his land – and within a fortnight traffic speeds dropped. But the same council has now told the father of four he could be blamed if drivers crash while trying to slow down to avoid being ‘flashed’ by the fake device. Convincing: After the council refused a request to install a real speed camera in Ompton, Nottinghamshire, Kevin McCarthy spent £250 making his own . It has warned him he could be sued if anyone claimed they were ‘distracted or influenced by the “camera”.’ Mr McCarthy, 50, said: ‘I’ve been . told if someone causes an accident by obeying the legal speed limit . through the village, then it’s my fault. That’s madness.’ The interior . designer, who had a welder friend make the £250 device out of scrap . metal, said: ‘It’s just the job.’ Villagers in Ompton, Nottinghamshire, . have been campaigning for a 30mph speed limit ever since it was first . cut from 60mph to 40mph six years ago. Nottinghamshire County Council has . refused on the grounds that the village – a scattering of around 20 . properties along the main Newark to Ollerton road – does not meet its . criteria for the lower limit. Reprimanded: Now the district council has told Mr McCarthy that he will be responsible for any accidents caused by the fake camera . Two temporary ‘interactive’ speed signs have been placed there since the limit was originally lowered. Mr McCarthy said villagers had in the . past been on a police speed watch course, where they were taught how to . use a speed gun. ‘Once we caught somebody coming through the village at . 98mph and we regularly have cars and bikes coming through at 60 to . 70mph. ‘You can tell when somebody’s sticking to the limit because they look so slow. Fear: Mr McCarthy claims that getting out of his drive is like 'taking your life in your hands' while his wife Julie almost crashed into a lorry going 60mph . Not working: The speed limit through Ompton was cut from 60mph to 40mph six years ago, but attempts to get that lowered to 30 have failed . ‘The speed of the traffic makes it . extremely difficult to get out of my house and on to the main roads in . the morning – most think nothing of doing 60 or 70mph.’ Matters came to a head recently when . wife Julie, 52, who helps run their design business, was almost hit by a . speeding HGV as she turned out of their track. Mr McCarthy added: ‘We have a problem with speeding through this village and it’s not going to be long before it kills someone.’ The council sent an official to see . the ‘camera’, who asked him to remove it. But because the replica is on . his own land, the authority is powerless to force him. Mr McCarthy said the letter from Nottinghamshire County Council then arrived. In it, the district highways manager . wrote: ‘I fully appreciate your reluctance to remove the “camera”. However I must reiterate that if an accident occurred and anyone claimed . they were distracted or influenced by the “camera” I believe you would . be liable for civil action.’ Councillor Richard Jackson, the . county council’s cabinet member for transport and highways, said: ‘We . agree that the camera is having an effect on reducing speed. ‘However, we do have concerns that, . without the correct warning signs, it is a potential hazard as it is . causing motorists to brake suddenly.’ He said speed cameras had to be . properly positioned with correct warning signs, and added: ‘We fully . understand the concerns of residents in Ompton... and we are hoping to . put in a permanent interactive speed sign in the near future.’ | Kevin McCarthy built £250 camera after driver did 98mph in 40 zone .
Council refused to reduce speed limit to 30mph .
Traffic speeds dropped after he installed the dummy camera . |
186,465 | 7d88a9b8452bb4f509052ed9136730e47c431490 | Washington (CNN) -- Republicans call it a government cover-up similar to what forced Richard Nixon to resign. Democrats call it a right-wing conspiracy theory. The fallout from the September 11, 2012, terrorist attack in Benghazi, Libya, that killed four Americans continues more than 19 months later, with further details last week that raised questions about how the Obama administration responded to the violence less than two months before the President's re-election. Few issues reveal the hyper-partisan politics of Washington more than the ongoing debate over an issue now known simply as Benghazi. Last Friday, House Oversight Committee Chairman Darrell Issa announced that he had subpoenaed Secretary of State John Kerry to testify at a May 21 hearing, alleging that the State Department failed to comply with an earlier subpoena for documents. House Speaker John Boehner followed up by announcing a special congressional committee led by a Republican colleague would investigate the matter. The House voted on party lines Thursday to create the panel, but Democrats have yet to decide if they will take part in what they claim could be a Republican-led witch hunt. GOP-led House votes to establish select committee on Benghazi . Hillary Clinton: No reason for new Benghazi committee . Issa called the administration's lack of compliance "in violation of any reasonable transparency or historic precedent at least since Richard Milhous Nixon." At the White House, spokesman Jay Carney shot back that Republicans continued trying to reap political benefit with what he called conspiracy theories about a Benghazi cover-up. "What we have seen since hours after the attack, beginning with a statement by the Republican nominee for president, is an attempt by Republicans to politicize a tragedy, and that continues today," Carney told reporters, adding that "what hasn't changed has been the effort by Republicans to ... claim a conspiracy when they haven't been able to find one." Here are some answers to questions about the latest twists in the story: . What happened in Benghazi? In September of 2012, a demeaning video made in the United States about the Prophet Mohammed got posted on YouTube and sparked protests at U.S. embassies in the Muslim world. On September 11, the anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States, an assault occurred at a U.S. compound in Benghazi that killed Ambassador Christopher Stevens and three other Americans. The Obama administration initially blamed the Benghazi attack on a protest against the video that escalated into a full-blown tactical assault. As details emerged in ensuing days, it became clear that an al Qaeda-affiliated group took part in what was a coordinated terrorist attack instead of a spontaneous demonstration. Then-Secretary of State Hillary Clinton created a special panel called an Accountability Review Board to investigate what happened. The group led by former Joint Chiefs Chairman Adm. Mike Mullen and retired U.S. Ambassador Thomas Pickering criticized aspects of diplomatic security and made 29 recommendations, all of which were accepted by the State Department. Why all the controversy? Coming less than two months before the presidential election, the Benghazi attack quickly became a political flashpoint. President Barack Obama had campaigned heavily on his decision to approve the mission that killed Osama bin Laden and boasted of putting the al Qaeda leader's organization "on the run." On September 16, five days after the Benghazi attack, then U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice went on Sunday talk shows and said the assault grew out of a protest against the controversial video. Republicans immediately challenged the administration's version of what happened, calling it an attempt by the Obama administration to hide a major security breakdown that signaled the broader failed policy in the region. Obama won re-election in November, but Republicans have mounted congressional investigations into what happened in Benghazi and why Rice gave an incorrect explanation to the American people. What is the Benghazi email everyone is talking about? Last Tuesday, the conservative group Judicial Watch made public State Department documents it received in response to a Freedom of Information Act request. One of the documents was a previously undisclosed email on September 14, 2012, from Ben Rhodes, a national security official specializing in communications, that listed talking points for Rice about the protests that had erupted at U.S. embassies and compounds in the Muslim world. Among the goals listed in the Rhodes email was to "underscore that these protests are rooted in an Internet video, and not a broader failure of policy." Republicans contend the email proves White House manipulation of the messaging for political purposes in the immediate aftermath of Benghazi, despite the administration's contention that Rice relied on talking points provided by the CIA for the sake of uniformity of messaging. "This is all about an effort to convince the American people that the president of the United States had everything under control," GOP Sen. John McCain said. Boehner and other Republicans questioned why the Rhodes email wasn't included in documents that the State Department provided to Congress under the earlier subpoena. In announcing the new subpoena of Kerry, Issa cited what he called "a disturbing disregard for the (State) Department's legal obligations to Congress." Carney argued that the Rhodes email referred to the broader topic of protests throughout the Muslim world, rather than the specific Benghazi attack. Meanwhile, a State Department spokeswoman took issue with Issa's latest subpoena, telling reporters it was a political stunt. Noting Kerry was scheduled to be out of the country on the date of the hearing in the subpoena, Marie Harf said Issa's committee "would have known if they reached out to us instead of issuing a subpoena." Is this new or just more of what we already knew? The existence of the Rhodes email is new, and that provides Republicans with a fresh front in their attacks on the administration over Benghazi. Labeling the situation a "defiance of the House's subpoena power," Boehner called it "the most flagrant example yet of the administration's contempt for the American people's right to know the truth about what happened when four Americans died in a fiery terrorist attack." However, the messaging contained in the Rhodes email is the same as included in previously released documents, such as the CIA talking points that Rice relied on. Carney noted that the only reference in the Rhodes email to Benghazi -- denying that there was actionable intelligence ahead of time of an imminent assault -- was lifted from the CIA talking points. I thought the government promised to release all information? The Obama administration previously pledged to release all pertinent information on Benghazi sought by Congress. Carney noted that it turned over 25,000 pages of documents and that various officials testified at a series of hearings by various congressional committees investigating the matter. Asked why the Rhodes email obtained by Judicial Watch hadn't been turned over previously, Carney said it came under a FOIA request that differed from the congressional subpoenas from Issa's committee. Underlying Carney's explanation was that the Rhodes email referred to the broader issue of protests rather than the specific Benghazi attack, which was the focus of the subpoenas. The talking points supplied by Rhodes were intended to prepare Rice for possible questions in her talk show appearances, he said, calling the document a normal duty of a communications officer in any government. Republicans questioned that explanation, noting the Benghazi attack would clearly be the dominant topic that Rice would face and arguing the administration clearly knew that. What's the upshot of all this? For Republicans, the issue resonates with their conservative base, especially the accusation that the administration failed to provide proper security for American diplomats and was unable to send military assets to respond to the Benghazi attack. At a hearing last week by Issa's committee, a retired Air Force general on duty at U.S. Africa Command that night complained that the military should have tried to save the Benghazi victims even if the effort would have been futile. When Republican Rep. James Lankford asked Brig. Gen. Robert Lovell "did we have their back that night," Lovell responded: "Obviously not, sir." Boehner's announcement of a special panel to further investigate Benghazi fulfilled a request by many GOP colleagues eager to frame the final years of Obama's presidency on their terms. Until now, Boehner had resisted calls to establish such a committee, pointing to the four House panels already investigating the matter. Democrats wanting to get past the issue portray Republicans as driven by partisan desire to hurt Obama. Carney has referred to what he described as GOP conspiracy theories regarding Benghazi that have failed to pan out. "Everything that this committee would look at has already been looked at ad nauseam by multiple committees," Harf said. "What's the point?" Is there more than meets the eye? In Washington, always. The issue gives Republicans perhaps their lone line of attack against Hillary Clinton, the overwhelming favorite for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2016 if she decides to run. A new poll Thursday showed Clinton's strong standing. The Quinnipiac University survey from Florida had Clinton topping former two-term Gov. Jeb Bush, the leading potential Republican contender in the nation's most populous swing state. Because Clinton was secretary of state when the Benghazi attack occurred, Republicans have sought to depict her as inattentive to security needs of diplomatic staff. At the Oversight Committee hearing last week, Lovell described how he and others desperately considered possible deployment of a rapid-force team to Benghazi, but needed a State Department request that never came. "Were they doing what they were trained to do or were they sitting around and waiting for the State Department and Hillary Clinton to call them up and say do something?" GOP Rep. Jason Chaffetz of Utah asked him. However, the Republican chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, Rep. Howard "Buck" McKeon of California, issued a statement that said his panel investigated the matter and found "no evidence that Department of State officials delayed the decision to deploy what few resources (the military) had available to respond." Democrats face what analysts expect will be a difficult mid-term election in November, with little chance of winning back the House from Republicans and facing the possibility of losing their majority in the Senate. Boehner's call for yet another congressional committee to investigate could provide Democrats with a rallying point to motivate voters to prevent Republicans from retaking the Senate in November and gaining full control of Congress. CNN's Jim Acosta and Paul Steinhauser contributed to this report. | House votes to form a select committee; Democrats undecided on taking part .
19 months later, Washington remains riven by the Benghazi terrorist attack .
A recently divulged email reignites fierce partisan debate from the 2012 election .
Republicans see the issue as a vulnerability for Hillary Clinton . |
77,616 | dc127c50e4c4b410686fe5f56747ffc39749068e | By . Reuters Reporter . Malaga have signed Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, who impressed at the World Cup finals, as a replacement for Willy Caballero after the Argentine left to join Manchester City this month. 'Malaga Club de Futbol has reached an agreement to sign one of the best goalkeepers from the recent World Cup in Brazil,' the Qatar-owned club said on their website on Friday. The 29-year-old had agreed a three-year contract and passed a medical, they added. Helping hand: Guillermo Ochoa has signed for Malaga as a replacement for goalkeeper Willy Caballero . One to watch: Ochoa was superb for Mexico during this summer's World Cup . Ochoa, who has played for relegated French club AC Ajaccio the past three seasons, particularly caught the eye with his performance against World Cup hosts Brazil in a Group A match in Fortaleza last month. He produced four world class saves to deny Paulinho, Neymar (twice) and Thiago Silva when they seemed certain to score. Silva thought he had won the game in the closing minutes with a powerful header only to see his effort parried at point blank range. Malaga begin their La Liga campaign at home to Athletic Bilbao on August 23. Spread: The 29-year-old made a some super saves, including thwarting Klaas-Jan Huntelaar against Holland . | La Liga side replace Willy Caballero after his switch to Manchester City .
Ochoa played for relegated AC Ajaccio in Ligue 1 last season . |
122,321 | 2a1cdfb25daed0a90229cfe0d931273965ae6f8b | (CNN) -- The Islamist rebels fighting to overthrow Mali's government are "determined, well-equipped and well-trained" and still hold a key town in the central part of that African country, French Defense Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said Tuesday. French troops and warplanes joined the battle last week on the side of Malian government forces, and Le Drian said the intervention stopped the Islamists from overrunning Bamako, the capital. The Islamists, who have seized much of northern Mali, had hoped to deliver a "definitive blow" to the government by capturing the city of Mopti, he told reporters in Paris. "We prevented it," he said. But the push has not yet driven them from the town of Konna, the scene of a fierce battle last week that weakened the Malian army, Le Drian said. "We are facing a versatile adversary who is determined, well-equipped and well-trained," he said. France, the former colonial power in Mali, has committed about 1,700 troops and air crews to the fight, Le Drian said. The force includes about 800 troops on the ground in Mali, including an armor unit. The operation is hitting "significant concentrations of fighters and vehicles" in the north, behind the front lines, and bolstering government troops' defense of Bamako, he said. The campaign will continue "as long as it is necessary" to defend Mali's embattled government and allow the speedy deployment of an African-led peacekeeping mission and a European force that will train Malian troops, Le Drian said. And speaking on a visit to the United Arab Emirates, French President Francois Hollande said the number of French troops deployed would increase "so that France can make way as quickly as possible" for an African force. France has no intention of staying in Mali permanently but would do what was necessary until the African force was ready to take over, he said. Read more: What's behind the instability in Mali? Hollande said France had three aims: stopping the "terrorist aggression" from the north; securing Bamako and safeguarding French nationals there; and enabling Mali to recover its territorial integrity. And he stressed that France was in Mali at the request of its government, with the support of its neighbors and world powers, and within the framework of international law. "If we had not taken up our responsibility and if on Friday morning we had not acted with this intervention, where would Mali be today?" he asked. French defense minister: Islamist rebels gaining ground in Mali . Defense chiefs from the members of the West African regional bloc ECOWAS were meeting Tuesday in Bamako to discuss military options, said a spokesman for the bloc, Sunny Ugoh. Ministers will meet Friday to finalize plans that will then be presented to the heads of state Saturday in Ivory Coast, he said. Leaders from a number of countries, including NATO allies the United States and Canada, have said they'll send troops or provide logistical support for the fight against Islamist militants in the West African nation. Col. Mohammed Yerima, a spokesman for the Nigerian army, told CNN that 190 of its soldiers would arrive in Mali within 24 hours. In total, Nigeria will deploy 900 soldiers -- slightly more than a full battalion -- within the next 10 days, as part of a U.N.-mandated African force to fight the insurgents in Mali, he said. Read more: Is this al Qaeda's 'last chance' for a country? Niger, Burkina Faso, Togo, Senegal and Benin are also among the countries that have pledged to send troops, French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius told reporters Monday. Hollande said he had spoken to the leaders of Mauritania and Algeria, both of which have agreed to close their borders with Mali to prevent fleeing militants from seeking refuge. Morocco has also authorized French planes to fly over its territory, he said. France also has wide support for its intervention within Europe, where countries including Britain, Denmark and Belgium have offered support, Hollande said. Two British military transport aircraft have been assigned to help with the French troop deployment, but no British forces will be in a combat role, the UK Foreign Office said. A spokesman for Germany's Foreign Ministry said the country's leaders were considering offering medical, logistical and humanitarian aid to Mali. The United Nations said preparations are under way for a U.N. multidisciplinary team to go to Bamako soon. Read more: France aims to 'eradicate' terrorism in Mali . The United States has shared intelligence from satellites and intercepted signals with the French, defense officials said Monday. In addition, the Pentagon is considering sending refueling tankers so that French jets can fly longer, more sustained combat missions, according to the officials. Drones "are under consideration," the defense officials said, though the military's stash of unmanned aerial vehicles is in heavy demand. Both stressed that these would be surveillance drones and said there are no plans yet to deploy them. U.S. State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland, meanwhile, said the United States is reviewing requests from the French, but no decisions have been made. The United States is "not in the position to support the Malian military directly until we have democratic processes restored by way of an election in Mali," she said. The U.N. Security Council authorized a one-year military peacekeeping mission in the country in December. Members of ECOWAS, the Economic Community of West African States, pledged thousands of troops, and the Security Council has urged other nations to contribute forces as well. A French colony until 1960, Mali had military rulers for decades until its first democratic elections in 1992. It remained stable politically until March, when a group of soldiers toppled the government, saying it had not provided adequate support for them to fight ethnic Tuareg rebels in the country's largely desert north. Tuareg rebels, who'd sought independence for decades, took advantage of the power vacuum and seized swaths of land. A power struggle then erupted in the north between the Tuaregs and local al Qaeda-linked radicals, who wound up in control of a large area as the Tuaregs retreated. The United Nations says amputations, floggings and public executions -- like the July stoning of a couple who had reportedly had an affair -- have become common in areas controlled by radical Islamists. They applied a strict interpretation of Sharia law in banning music, smoking, drinking and watching sports on television, and damaged Timbuktu's historic tombs and shrines. CNN's Antonia Mortensen and Saskya Vandoorne contributed to this report. | French airstrikes hit behind Islamist rebel lines while troops bolster Bamako, minister says .
France now has about 800 troops on the ground, the French defense minister says .
Nigeria says it's sending 190 troops in the next 24 hours, with 700 more in coming days .
World and regional powers are concerned about the advance of Islamist militants . |
31,542 | 59b397011c77d5ac24d17379c7520dccecf9b6dd | By . Kieran Corcoran . A husband who shot his terminally ill wife before turning the gun on himself left a tape recorded message saying 'I can’t live without her', an inquest heard. Father-of-three Peter Seager, 69, and his 62-year-old wife Daphne Seager, were both found dead at home by their children with wounds to the head, a hearing into their deaths was told. In a dictaphone recording played to the inquest, retired gas fitter Mr Seager said: 'We were always meant to be together and always be one. Found dead: Peter and Daphne Seager were found at their home on this street in Dagenham, Essex, by their grown children, who had been left messages explaining their actions, an inquest heard . 'But life hasn't dictated that for us and we’re faced with being left alone and we don’t want to be alone. 'No pain, no problems, no nothing. Please don’t think down on me, that I took your mum away from you. It’s our choice, it’s what we want. Please forgive us for what we are going to do.' Police discovered two guns next to the couple. Mr Seager left the message for his family after killing his wife, a retired dinner lady, on the day she was due to return to a hospice. After Mr Seager finished speaking his wife also left a message, in a weak and barely audible voice. She said: 'I'm sorry for what I'm going to do. I love you, I love you lots. Bye.' Mrs Seager, of Dagenham, Essex, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011. But just months before her death in June 2013 shed was told it had spread to her brain. Because she was left weak and bed-ridden she stayed at St Francis Hospice in Romford from April 21 before returning home two months later. Walthamstow Coroner’s Court heard Mr and Mrs Seager lived at home with their two sons, Derrick and Nicholas. Nicholas found a note alongside the dictaphone in the early hours of June 4 in his room, which told him not to go downstairs. In a statement read to the court Derrick Seager, who discovered his parents’ bodies, said: 'Around 3:45am Nicholas found a note in his room and a box. 'It told him not to go downstairs and he came and told me. After my father had said "we will never be apart" it was running in my mind.' Describing the moment he went downstairs, Mr Seager said: 'I saw the blood and thought dad has done something. I closed the door, because I didn’t want it to be the last image I saw of them.' Mrs Seager’s daughter, Susan Stirman, said her mother had begged to be allowed to return to the hospice because she would be more comfortable there. Return: Mrs Seager was due to return to St Francis Hospice in Romford, pictured, when she died . Ms Stirman told the court: 'She just said: "You’ve got to get me out of here, I’ve not had a bath in two weeks."' When it had been arranged to take Mrs Seager back to the hospice, Mrs Stirman went to visit her mother at home to tell her the news. She said: 'When I left, she just thanked me for arranging to move her into the hospice. 'She just touched my arm and said that she loved me. She then sort of put her thumbs up and said: "See you in the morning."' Asked what her mother’s state of mind was on the day, Mrs Stirman said: 'I would say she was happy.' When asked what her father's reaction to his wife moving back into the hospice was, she said: 'I didn't talk to him at all.' However, she did say that she heard him mention that they would 'never, ever be apart'. She told the hearing: 'I always knew my dad would be lost without my mum, but I didn’t think he would go to the extremes of what happened. 'If my mum died first, I had thought he may have killed himself.' She added: 'He was a bit like Jekyll and Hyde, you never knew what to expect, or whether he would be happy or not. He was a control freak.' She described her mum as a real family person, adding: 'She was most happy when she had all her family around her.' Eileen Tall, Mrs Seager's sister, told the court that she had received a phone call from Mr Seager just months before the couple’s deaths. She said he told her: 'I can’t see her in pain and I will kill her to put her out of the pain.' She added: 'Then he said that he shouldn't have told me that.' She confirmed to Coroner Nadia Persaud that Mr Seager has said he would kill himself if anything happened to Daphne. Dr Vinnie Nambisan, a consultant at the hospice, said he did not believe Mrs Seager would be able to kill herself with the weapons. The inquest continues. | Peter and Daphne Seager were found dead at home with wounds .
Left message for their grown children at home in Dagenham, Essex .
Mrs Seager was due to return to a hospice due to her terminal cancer .
Inquest at heard Mr Seager had spoken before of killing his wife .
Mr Seager 'told sister-in-law "I will kill her to put her out of pain"' |
282,137 | f9743bb5c88b874829135f9c25d36b15eb1aa3b1 | Aston Villa have offered teenage sensation Jack Grealish a new four-year deal at the club. The 19-year-old has attracted interest from Chelsea and is in the final 12 months of his current contract at Villa Park. Grealish was handed his first-team debut at the end of last season against Manchester City after impressing on loan at League One outfit Notts County, where he featured 38 times. Attracting interest: Aston Villa youngster Jack Grealish . Rising star: Villa are keen to tie Grealish to a new long-term deal . The winger has forced his way into Paul Lambert's first-team plans and featured as a substitute in the Premier League wins against Stoke and Hull City. Grealish has also represented the Republic of Ireland at Under 21 level and his representatives recently held talks with Martin O'Neill about his international future. The Bodymoor Heath academy graduate has been with the club since the age of six and Villa are keen to tie down his long-term future. Making progress: Grealish has forced his way into Paul Lambert's first-team plans . | Talented teenager offered new four-year contract at Villa Park .
Grealish is attracting the attention of Premier League rivals Chelsea .
Young winger has featured in the wins against Stoke and Hull City . |
97,405 | 0956e9acc401ab09f8c8dd8eb091d31fa5dc341d | By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 18:28 EST, 7 March 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 06:59 EST, 8 March 2014 . Suspended: Detroit police officer Deon Nunlee has been charged with raping a woman who called 911 . A Detroit police officer is accused of raping a woman who had called 911 to report being assaulted by her boyfriend. Deon Nunlee, 39, was arraigned on Friday on second-degree criminal sexual conduct, assault and misconduct charges, according to the Wayne County prosecutor's office. Prosecutors said Nunlee and his partner responded to a domestic disturbance complaint at a home on Detroit's northwest side about 3am on October 30. A 31-year-old woman told investigators that after the police arrived she was taken to an upstairs bedroom by one officer while the other remained downstairs with her boyfriend. The woman said she was sexually assaulted in the bedroom by the officer, who told her he would return later that morning, prosecutors said. DNA evidence connected Nunlee to the sexual assault, Police Chief James Craig said on Friday afternoon. 'This is the type of misconduct that should never happen,' Craig said. 'This does not reflect the work the Detroit Police Department does each and every day.' 'I would go out and say that I think the majority of the public has a great deal of confidence and faith in this police department,' Craig added. 'And people should never lose sight that when we hire police officers we hire from the community, and you all know that there's people in our community that commit crimes. They make bad choices, make bad decisions, and police officers are no different.' Nunlee has been with the police force since 2008. When the woman made her accusations on October 31, he was put on desk duty. Emergency: The alleged victim had called 911 on October 30 to report being assaulted by her boyfriend . 'Bad choices': Police chief James Craig said this type of misconduct should never happen . On February 10, DNA collected in a rape kit was linked to Nunlee, who was then suspended without pay, Fox 2 reported. He remains suspended without pay and faces an April 17 preliminary examination. Nunlee was not the only Detroit officer to appear on the wrong side of a courtroom in recent days. Suspended officer Dana Bond was arraigned on Tuesday on charges of failing stop at an injury accident, failing to stop at an accident that caused property damage and driving with a high blood alcohol content. Authorities said Bond tried to drive away after a crash on Sunday, but struck a snow bank. Another officer, Johnny Ray Bridges, 46, was charged this week with unlawful imprisonment, assault with intent to do great bodily harm, domestic violence and reckless discharge of a firearm. A 31-year-old Detroit woman was punched and kicked in the face and body on Tuesday during an argument. At some point during the argument, a handgun was fired into the air. The woman said she escaped by breaking out a window and fleeing to a nearby restaurant. Bridges was off duty at the time. | Deon Nunlee has been suspended without pay after being charged with criminal sexual conduct .
Victim claims she was assaulted by Nunlee while a second officer was in a different room of her house . |
84,938 | f0f58d67e36e7be21f5fcc5c7a9a8c0f4a1f0452 | Figures showing David Cameron has spectacularly failed to meet his promise to cut immigration will today be ‘buried’ under a slew of reports about the Jimmy Savile scandal. Ministers were last night accused of ‘cynically’ timing the release of the Savile investigations by two government departments to coincide with the migration statistics. Both will be released at 9.30am – with reports into the Savile’s paedophile abuse in at least 12 NHS hospitals and 21 children’s homes and schools certain to get blanket coverage. Immigration figures scheduled for release tomorrow are expected to show that net migration has risen again to more than 260,000, despite the coalition pledging to cut it to 'tens of thousands' The publication of the 16 reports from locations around the country will be accompanied by a live press conference. The migration statistics will be released without fanfare or a press conference by the independent Office for National Statistics. They are expected to show that net migration has risen again, to more than 260,000. The date has been fixed for months, with spin doctors acutely aware the figures could deliver a serious blow to the Prime Minister’s credibility. The government is also expected to release 16 reports into Jimmy Savile. The papers have been ready for months and are already overdue . The Savile reports could have been released at any time and are already overdue. Whitehall officials and MPs are convinced the date has been chosen deliberately. One said: ‘It is an open secret that’s what is going on.’ Unlike the immigration figures, no blame for the Savile affair can be laid at the Coalition’s door. Last night Ukip deputy leader Paul Nuttall said: ‘Thursday, it is clear, is, for this Government, a good day to bury bad news. ‘By burying the latest immigration figures under the Savile news, they know that the statistics will be masked. One just has to wonder what else will be released across Whitehall tomorrow?’ Mr Cameron made reducing net migration to the ‘tens of thousands’ a key 2010 election promise. Yet, despite some initial progress, it had reached 260,000 in the year to June 2014. Experts believe today’s figures could be even worse – and will leave the Tories fighting the election with net migration higher than the 244,000 figure inherited from Labour. Last week, the separate Labour Force Survey showed migrant workers were continuing to pour into the UK in huge numbers. Over 12 months, the number of Eastern Europeans rose by almost 200,000. On Tuesday, David Cameron appeared to prepare the ground for a humiliating failure. He admitted he should cut benefits and tax credits for immigrants more quickly to stop Britain being such a ‘massive draw’. | Figures expected to show another rise in net migration to 260,000 .
Coalition had previously pledged to cut number to 'tens of thousands'
Data will be unveiled at same time as reports in abuse by Jimmy Savile . |
150,692 | 4ed53b2ca953d6cecc108749f6da33e38de852dc | By . Louise Boyle . PUBLISHED: . 20:57 EST, 22 August 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 20:57 EST, 22 August 2012 . A former University of Virginia lacrosse player convicted of killing his ex-girlfriend lost his bid for a new trial today when a judge concluded there was ample evidence to support his conviction of second-degree murder. George Huguely V sat impassively during the two-and-a-half hour hearing as a judge rejected all defense motions seeking a new trial in the May 2010 slaying of his on-again, off-again girlfriend Yeardley Love, who also was a lacrosse player at the school. Huguely was convicted in February of beating to death the 22-year-old student from Baltimore. He was also convicted of grand larceny for the theft of her computer. Piled on the pounds: George Huguely V is escorted to court in Virginia today (left) where he lost his bid for a new trial. The murderer looking visibly slimmer ahead of being convicted in February (right) On the murder charge, Charlottesville Circuit Judge Edward Hogshire said on Wednesday: 'I think there was overwhelming evidence to support the conviction.' Huguely is scheduled to be sentenced on August 30 on the two charges, which could send him to prison for 26 years. Attorneys for Huguely cited what they argued were pretrial and trial errors in arguing for a new trial. Hogshire, who presided at Huguely's trial, said he found no reversible errors. Huguely, of Chevy Chase, Maryland, killed Miss Love after a day of golf and drinking, incensed that she had had a relationship with a North Carolina lacrosse player. Denied: The judge in Charlottesville said today that there was 'overwhelming' evidence that the 22-year-old had killed his on-off again girlfriend . He kicked a hole in Love's door to get in her bedroom and left her to die, according to trial testimony. The young woman's right eye was bashed in and she was hit with such power that her brain was bruised. She also had wrenching head injury that caused bleeding at the base of her brain stem. A coroner concluded she died of blunt force trauma. Defense and prosecution experts offered different medical opinions on the lethal consequences of her injuries. Huguely's attorneys said he only went to Love's apartment to talk before the encounter quickly turned physical. He said she banged her head against the wall of her bedroom, and she only had a bloody nose when he left. During Huguely's trial, jurors heard testimony from lacrosse players who told of his escalating drinking problem and public spats between the two. Close bond: Yeardley Love (left), at the beach with her sister Lexie, was murdered in 2010 just before she was due to graduate from college . Stolen life: Yeardley Love, 22, (left) and her boyfriend George Huguely (right) who murdered her at the University of Virginia in May 2010 . Those included Huguely putting Miss Love in a chokehold while on his bed, and one time when she accused him of flirting with two high school girls. Friends and fellow players said the two were unfaithful to each other and had a fiery relationship. In a police interrogation video viewed by jurors, Huguely said he simply wanted to discuss their sputtering, two-year relationship. Huguely admitted he may have shaken her but insisted he didn't grab her neck or punch her. Members of the Huguely and Love families attended the hearing and refused to comment as they left the courtroom. Opposing attorneys also declined to talk to reporters. Huguely, who was dressed in a black-and-gray jail jumpsuit and restrained at the wrists and legs during the hearing, appeared to have piled on weight since his trial, during which he appeared gaunt compared to his playing days at university. He had also let his hair grow over his ears. He occasionally glanced at his family, offering a meek smile. Clutching at straws: Huguely's defense team Francis McQ. Lawrence, left, and Rhonda Quagliana, right, had each of their attempts for a new trial thrown out by a judge today . Huguely's attorneys Rhonda Quagliana and Francis McQ. Lawrence argued motions relating to jury selection, questioning and Quagliana's brief illness during the trial, which they said should have warranted a continuance until she could return to court. 'We were co-counsels in this case,' Ms Quagliana told the judge. 'He has a right to be represented by the counsel he chooses.' Hogshire 'strenuously' objected to the suggestion he rejected a defense bid to continue the trial until Quagliana was fully recovered. On another defense motion - the sequestration of jurors - Hogshire said: 'How do you sequester a jury in the 21st century? How do you do that?' The judge also rejected defense arguments that a juror with long University of Virginia affiliation should have not sat on the jury, arguing he would never be able to pick jurors in this college town. Miss Love's death had a statewide impact, leading to legislation that made it easier for possible abuse victims to get a restraining order in Virginia. The General Assembly passed a law that expands criteria under which people can seek protective orders. The young woman's family has filed two wrongful death lawsuits seeking almost $60 million. The suits name the state, University of Virgina and Huguely's former coaches. | University of Virginia lacrosse player found guilty in February of beating to death ex-girlfriend Yeardley Love .
Defense team tried for a new trial but judge told court there was 'overwhelming' evidence against Huguely .
Killer, who has piled on weight, sat impassively during hearing .
He faces 26 years in prison when sentenced later this month . |
258,934 | db22401f911d4173c10773e32deeda20bcf78677 | (CNN) -- Carlos Tevez marked his Juventus debut with the winning goal, but it was not enough to put the Italian champions top of Serie A after the opening day of matches. That honor went to Verona following the promoted side's shock 2-1 victory over AC Milan earlier Saturday. However, Juve's bid for a 30th scudetto began with few scares against the only team to have beaten the Turin side home and away last season. Tevez, a $15 million arrival from English club Manchester City in preseason, started up front while fellow new forward signing Fernando Llorente was on the substitutes' bench. The Argentina international was denied a first-half goal by keeper Angelo Da Costa, who also saved from Kwadwo Asamoah's header, but he made no mistake from close range in the 58th minute after being set up by Paul Pogba. It was Tevez's second goal for the club, having also netted in last Sunday's 4-0 Italian Super Cup win over Lazio. That match was marred by racist chanting by some home fans, and as a result Lazio's opening home match this season against Udinese will be played with a section of the stands closed. Sampdoria had substitute Paolo Castellini sent off in time added on for a foul on Stephan Lichtsteiner. Llorente was given a brief debut when he came on for Mirko Vicunic in the 89th minute, while Tevez gave way to Sebastian Giovinco. Verona celebrated the end of the club's 11-year wait for a top-flight match, as veteran former Italy striker Luca Toni headed two goals to defeat last season's third-placed team Milan. The seven-time European champions, held 1-1 by Dutch club PSV Eindhoven in last week's Champions League qualifier, took the lead in the 14th minute when Mario Balotelli set up midfielder Andrea Poli. However, Toni headed home a corner just before the half-hour mark and the 36-year-old repeated the feat from Bosko Jankovic's cross in the 53rd minute. Balotelli had two strong shouts for a penalty, but the Italy striker ended up with just a booking for his efforts after complaining bitterly when denied on the latter occasion. | Serie A season kicks off Saturday with champions Juventus beating Sampdoria .
New signing Carlos Tevez scores the only goal for the away team .
Promoted Verona cause big upset with 2-1 victory against AC Milan .
It marks Verona's first match in the top flight for more than a decade . |
191,520 | 84038ccf99670adfbd99f1d54c0ea9ba6be2cd8b | (CNN) -- This will be the first Memorial Day since my buddy from the Marine Corps committed suicide last June. As the holiday draws closer, the series of text messages I received from our mutual friend on that spring day keep pushing their way into my mind. "I'm sorry for the text, man. But I just can't do any more phone calls today." There was a moment of silence before he continued to write that our friend "blew his brains out yesterday. The funeral is Saturday in New Jersey. That's all I know at this point. I'll give you a call tomorrow." I remember looking out the car window at the lights of random buildings flashing by as I sat in the passenger seat on the way home from my niece's wedding. My heart pounding as the familiar sense of violent death and loss worked its way into me. In the years since I fought in Iraq and Afghanistan, Memorial Day has always had a certain type of sting to it. It has been a day for quiet reflection and thoughts of friends who'd fallen. Men like Marine Capt. Robert M. Secher, or "Cubby," as we affectionately called him, who was killed by a sniper in Hit, Iraq in 2006. Brothers who now, still, years later, I think of every day. Rob, along with others I've known, fell while serving as U.S. Marines engaged in combat with an enemy who was trying to kill them. But this year things already feel different. Because my buddy died by his own hand. So it became clear that the cost of a war is even greater than I could imagine. Because war has such an insatiable appetite for death that it continues to kill Marines and soldiers long after they're done actively participating in it. Iraq war vet introduces military suicide prevention bill . The day he took his own life, my friend posted a picture of himself on Facebook. The photo has since been removed, but the look in his eyes has been burned into me forever. I thought I could see a mix of sadness and anger in his eyes. And I can still feel a silent and private hopelessness. I remembered how in my own dark time after the war -- it lasted nearly two years -- my soul felt like it had been shot to pieces by things I saw. The things I smelled. And the things I did. I recalled how life becomes somehow smaller as you systematically isolate yourself from those you love. And those who love you. What is wars' true toll on the spouses and children? Then there's a slide down a slope that begins with feelings of confusion, then moves along to anger and then finally, indifference. And somewhere in that dark and heavy indifference lies the point of emotional exhaustion where you find yourself standing at the edge of an abyss. Soothed by the fact that once you jump in, all feelings will end. In a 2012 suicide data report, the Department of Veterans Affairs estimated that on average, 22 veterans a day commit suicide. The problem is so prevalent that the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) -- which is, in my opinion, the most effective, relevant and impactful organization representing my generation of veterans -- has made combating suicide their No.1 priority for 2014. Why suicide rate among veterans may be more than 22 a day . I believe there is a stigma within our society when it comes to seeking mental health care. As a result, I fear that many who would benefit from treatment choose to stay silent. Yet, in an IAVA survey, 77% of the veterans who responded said they "sought care when it was suggested that they do so by a friend or family member." Opinion: Suicide on the homefront in military families . So if you know someone who may be struggling, please let him or her know that it's OK if they're not OK and there's no shame in it. Reach out to them and urge them to seek help. Because unfortunately, as is the case 22 times each day, that person's life may depend on it. Help for veterans and their families is available at the Veterans Crisis Line 24/7. Call 1-800-273-8255 or send a text message to 838255. You can also chat online. Another option is calling the Vet2Vet hotline: 1-877-VET2VET (838-2838). | Mike Scotti was deployed in both Iraq and Afghanistan .
He struggled with isolation, anger and depression after coming home .
An estimated 22 veterans commit suicide every day .
For ways to help veterans in need, visit CNN.com/Impact . |
203,030 | 92dc1ceabb2f37866561b802ff3dfd346e2a3869 | Among Lucia Terui's first diving experiences was an encounter with Nomura's jellyfish, the graceful giants of the sea that grow up to 6ft 6in in diameter. Perhaps understandably the sighting inspired an obsession for Terui, 40, to one day photograph the creatures, which are 100 times the size of an average jellyfish and are most commonly found in the waters between China and Japan. And when the Brazilian photographer achieved her goal on a diving trip into the waters of Echizen, Fukui province, Japan, she said she felt 'pure joy'. Scroll down for video . A giant Nomura's jellyfish dwarfs a diver in this image captured by Brazilian photographer Lucia Terui in the waters off Echizen, Japan . Nomura's jellyfish can grow up to 6ft 6in in diameter and are found most commonly in the sea between China and Japan . After seeing the giant jellyfish, Lucia says she 'became obsessed with them and getting the perfect shot, and years later I got my moment' Photographer Lucia Terui encountered the creatures on her diving trip . 'On one of my first ever diving trips I had the privilege to dive with this particular jellyfish,' says Lucia, now of Hamamatsu, Japan. 'I was delighted and it was an incredible experience, but on that particular occasion I didn't have the underwater photography equipment to capture the images in the way I wanted. 'From then on I became obsessed with them and getting the perfect shot, and years later I got my moment.' Lucia was able to photograph the enormous five-foot jellyfish in all its glory. She spent three days diving with her husband, Alexandre Shimoishi, 40, on the lookout for the incredible creature. Lucia says: 'I had to dive deep into the open sea to be able to find one, but it was worth it in the end and I felt pure joy when I did. 'It was a dream of mine achieved, the jellyfish are so beautiful and inoffensive, and because of that I wasn't afraid at all. 'A lot of patience was needed, as there were lot of jellyfish in the sea but most of them were hurt or almost dead, I wanted one that was healthy and a beauty to shoot.' The Nomura's jellyfish is classified in the same category as the lion's mane jellyfish, the largest cnidarian in the world. The diameter when fully grown is slightly greater than the height of an average man, with the ability to grow up to 6ft 6in. Although their stings are generally very painful, they are not known for causing any major damage to humans. Despite their formidable size, Lucia loves photographing nature's gentle giants. She says: 'It's funny because most of the time my friends call me crazy, but they like and admire my photographs and so that really makes me happy. 'It's important that we respect and protect nature that is all around us, I believe this is our duty to life and the future of our planet.' | Photographer Lucia Terui became obsessed with snapping Nomura's jellyfish after seeing them when diving .
The 40-year-old took these amazing photographs while diving off Echizen in Japan's Fukui province .
She photographed an estimated 4ft 9in creature, but the Nomura's jellyfish can grow up to 6ft 6in in diameter . |
262,434 | dff21f3c0b8952b567502b51ec6bdc05d8f5bd73 | By . Mark Duell . Last updated at 5:26 AM on 1st March 2012 . A father killed his wife and 16-month-old daughter then fled 1,100 miles across the U.S. before committing suicide in a hotel room, police said. Daniel Johnston, 29, of Oklahoma City, allegedly killed his wife Tara, 29, and daughter Allison, and was later found dead in Las Vegas, Nevada. After flying west on Sunday, Johnston committed suicide in the hotel room last night. He did it by cutting his wrists and ankles, his father claimed. Scroll down for video . Mystery: Daniel Johnston, 29, of Oklahoma City, allegedly killed his wife Tara, 29, left, and daughter Allison, right, and was later found dead in Las Vegas, Nevada . Marriage: The motivation for the devastation caused to the apparently happy family is unclear . Tragic: The bodies of the mother and daughter Allison, pictured, were found around 8am on Tuesday after police were contacted with an anonymous tip-off . ‘It was clearly, clearly, a double homicide,’ Oklahoma City Police Sergeant Gary Knight said. ‘And it was also clear that the guy killed himself.’ Police had been looking for Johnston after they found his relatives’ bodies on Tuesday morning. Their times of death are currently unclear. Authorities are also probing any potential motive. Johnston’s only bad mark on his record before the alleged killings was a traffic ticket. ‘How an adult or someone could harm a child is unbelievable to us,’ the victims' next door neighbour Al Fielder told CBS affiliate KWTV. ‘They seemed very happy. They would . walk up and down the street, walking their baby in the stroller. This is . the most unlikely thing.’ Scene: The home where the bodies were found, in far northeast Oklahoma City, is near the boundary that separates the city from nearby Edmond . Father and baby: Police uncovered the tragedy in Oklahoma and Nevada on Tuesday after two bodies were found at the home in Oklahoma City . Smiles: Neighbours said the couple seemed 'very happy' and were often seen out and about, walking their baby in a pram . One of Mrs Johnston's colleagues paid tribute to her 'happy and positive' co-worker, who was never daunted by misfortune. 'She loved her daughter,' the colleague continued. 'Allison was her life.' 'They seemed very happy. They would walk up and down the street, walking their baby in the stroller. This is the most unlikely thing' Al Fielder, neighbour . The turbulent end to her life seems . to have come out of the blue, as just two weeks ago she was publicly showing . affection to her husband. 'Happy Valentine's Day to the most wonderful husband in the world!!', she wrote on her Facebook profile. Mrs Johnston's best friend Christina . Kalabic also spoke warmly of her, and added that she found it difficult . to blame Daniel Johnston for his actions. 'It's hard for me to talk bad about him,' she said, 'because I knew him as well and . it's hard for me to say he was a bad guy because I really don't think he . was.' The bodies of the mother and daughter were found shortly before 8am on Tuesday after police were contacted with an anonymous tip. The home where the bodies were found, in far northeast Oklahoma City, is near the boundary that separates the city from nearby town Edmond. See video here . | Daniel Johnston 'killed wife Tara and 16-month-old daughter Allison'
Flew from Oklahoma City to Las Vegas to kill himself .
Police ponder motive as neighbours call them 'happy' and recall family walks .
For .
confidential support call the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90, visit a .
local Samaritans branch or see www.samaritans.org .
In the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255 . |
73,383 | d00c82a21e3fdc7b826fec488c82ccfecdefac39 | By . Meghan Keneally . PUBLISHED: . 17:56 EST, 8 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 08:07 EST, 9 January 2014 . Accident: State representative Leslie Combs was cleaning her gun when it went off in her office on Tuesday afternoon . A state representative in Kentucky caused a security scare when she accidentally fired her gun while cleaning it in her office at the state legislature. But Leslie Combs has brushed off the accident, claiming that it comes with the territory of gun ownership. 'I'm a gun owner. It happens,' she said today after news of yesterday's accident broke. The Democratic representative was cleaning her semi-automatic handgun inside her office when it accidentally fired and a bullet ricocheted, hitting a bookshelf. Local station WHAS 11 reports that a colleague, representative Jeff Greer, was also in the room at the time of the accident but neither of them were injured. 'I was purposely disarming it to put it up because I didn’t like it and I didn’t want to use it any more,' she said. 'I had had it in my purse I carry usually, and I thought "I’m going to put that sucker away."' State police Sgt. Jason Palmer told The Courier Journal that the single bullet was fired at 2.30pm on Tuesday and was reported to police two hours later. The investigation has been concluded and they found no suspicious evidence to suggest that it was anything beyond an accident, nor did they find any fragments outside of the office. Though guns are not allowed inside many government buildings, the law that put that in place in Kentucky expired in 2003 and since Ms Combs has a concealed weapons permit, she did nothing wrong by having it with her. Government property: An earlier law banning guns from the Kentucky State Capitol expired in 2003 . Legal: Ms Combs has a conceal-carry license meaning she did nothing illegal by having the gun in her office . Fellow state senator Mary Lou Marzian proposed legislation to ban guns from the building 'several years ago, and it did not meet with success,' she told the Courier-Journal. 'I’m certainly not wanting to take guns away from people, but maybe keep them in our cars if people have them to not bring them around to where there are going to be children walking up around the halls,' Ms Marzian said. Ms Combs also maintains that she is a strong supporter of gun rights. 'I obtained my concealed-carry permit several years ago to better protect my safety, as I travel widely and sometimes at night. I strongly support our Second Amendment rights and our state’s concealed-carry law, and believe just as strongly that gun safety and education must be part of that equation,' she wrote in a post on Facebook addressing the incident. 'I urge everyone to be extremely cautious with their firearm. I know from personal experience how easy it is to discharge a firearm accidentally. | State Rep. Leslie Combs had a conceal-carry license so she was legally allowed to have the gun in the Capitol building .
Said she was cleaning it because she wanted to put it away since she felt she didn't need it anymore . |
74,995 | d499a9d74ccd4bb9dc5ad380cce8312e8e390a3c | PUBLISHED: . 09:47 EST, 1 April 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 01:32 EST, 2 April 2013 . The eccentric Australian billionaire behind plans to recreate the Titanic has revealed his latest project - a Jurassic Park style theme park filled with robotic dinosaurs. Clive Palmer has ordered more than 100 mechanical dinosaurs from China, to install in his Palmer Coolum Resort. He already has a life sized T-Rex, with a 20-metre long and 3.5-metre high Deinosuchus, a crocodile-like creature, due to arrive by the end of next month. The 20-metre long, 3.5-metre high Deinosuchus undergoing final construction in China. It will be one of 165 robotic dinosaurs shipped to the Australian Palmer Coolum resort. A life sized T-Rex has already been installed at the resort, where the Australian PGA is set to held later this year. The Deinosuchus, whose name . translates as ‘terrible crocodile’, was one of the biggest prehistoric . crocodiles that ever lived. Apart from its sheer size, the Deinosuchus . is very similar to today’s crocodiles, illustrating how little evolution . has taken place in the species over millions of years. Today’s saltwater crocodiles possess the strongest bite of any living animal with a maximum force of over 16,000 newtons. The bite force of the fearsome Deinosuchus is believed to have exceeded 18,000 newtons. The animals, which will be displayed in the woodlands around the resort, will sway their tails, heave their chests and blink. 'At . @PalmerCoolum resort we'll have the world's biggest dinosaur exhibit, . with 165 animatronic dinosaurs,' the mining magnate tweeted. Mr Palmer made an application to the . Sunshine Coast Council last year to turn part of the Coolum resort's . golf course into a dinosaur park. The first dinosaur to be installed, called Jeff, widely seen as a dig at Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney, oversaw the 2012 PGA Championship at Coolum. Mr . Palmer said the next shipment would include a 1200 kilogram . brachiosaurus and a 7 metre tall mamenchisaurus - both tall plant-eating . reptiles. 'The Deinosuchus, whose name translates as 'terrible crocodile', was one of the biggest prehistoric crocodiles that ever lived,' the statement announcing the latest addition said. 'Apart from its sheer size, the Deinosuchus is very similar to today's crocodiles, illustrating how little evolution has taken place in the species over millions of years.' Jurassic Park: The 1993 classic starred (l-r)Jeff Goldblum, Richard Attenborough, Laura Dern and Sam Neill . Some of the stars of Jurassic Park III: Robot versions are set to be installed in an Australian theme park . The . first remains of a Deinosuchus were discovered in North Carolina in the . 1850s, but fossils of the massive predator have been found in Mexico . and ten US states, including Texas, Montana, and many along the east . coas . The massive reptile will begin the journey to his new home in Coolum this weekend and is expected to arrive by the end of April. Earlier this year the mining magnate from Australia has . announced plans to build an exact replica of the original Titanic ship . with a view to offering holiday cruises on the ill-fated liner's . original route from Southampton to New York. The original: The Titanic, pictured here leaving Belfast in 1912 for sea trials, was dubbed the 'unsinkable ship' before it sank off the coast of America killing more than 1300 passengers . The . nine-deck, 840-room ship will be constructed to the same dimensions as . the Belfast-built White Star Liner - 270 metres long, 53 metres high and . weighing 40,000 tonnes. Built . in China, Titanic II will also remain faithful to the classifications . of the original ship with passengers able to buy first, second and third . class tickets. A maiden voyage is planned for 2016 from Southampton to New York. Palmer said: 'Since we announced our plan in April we've had a huge amount of . interest, particularly from people wanting to know how they can secure a . booking for the maiden voyage, along with commercial sponsors.' Titanic II will seek to closely match the design of original vessel, which sank on the fifth day of its maiden voyage in April 1912, killing more than 1,500 passengers and crew. Clive Palmer poses in front of an artist impression of the Titanic ll at MGM Studios in Los Angeles, California . It will boast the same interiors, and even the same onboard gymnasium, complete with Edwardian exercise machines. The . grand staircase, smoking room, Cafe Parisien and various dining rooms . will also be recreated, as will the reading and writing room, the . swimming pool and Moorish-influenced Turkish baths. More . than 1,300 passengers perished when the Titanic hit an iceberg on its . maiden voyage on April 12, 1912. Earlier this year, a memorial cruise . carrying relatives of Titanic victims among its 1,309 passengers, the . same number as on the doomed ship – set sail from Southampton for the . Titanic’s wreck site. | Clive Palmer is also behind plans to rebuild the Titanic .
Has ordered 165 life sized robotic dinosaurs from China for his Palmer Coolum Resort . |
237,988 | c008701097d42624fd48f1ded181382417f00a17 | Washington (CNN) -- Your hotel, health club and neighborhood pool can remain open this weekend without fear of violating the law. The Justice Department said Thursday it is delaying for 60 days a new law that requires all public pools to install "lifts" or provide other means to make pools accessible to disabled individuals. The law was passed in 2010 and was scheduled to take effect Thursday. But in recent months, there has been widespread confusion about what sort of pools are required to make the change, whether pools must install permanent lifts or can use cheaper portable lifts and whether one lift could service more than one pool. As the Thursday deadline neared, hotels and other pool operators nationwide unleashed a torrent of calls and letters to industry associations and politicians, saying the rule threatened to close pools from coast to coast. Several Republican lawmakers charged the rule was an example of unwieldy government regulation. And scribes even gave the debacle a name: "Poolmaggeddon." A hotel industry association said the government originally indicated portable lifts were acceptable, but reversed itself in a legal interpretation released early this year. It also said the government is requiring a separate lift for every pool, greatly increasing the costs to facilities with numerous pools. Permanent lifts are costly because they must have electrical grounding work, which requires installers to "tear up" a pool deck, said Marlene Colucci, executive vice president of the American Hotel & Lodging Association. "You have to do electrical grounding requirements anytime you're within five feet of water, and that's required by the government. And this was not at all contemplated by the Department of Justice when they issued this further guidance," Colucci said. Permanent lifts also are an "easy attractive nuisance" for children, she said. "Children see it, they look at it and say, 'This is a diving board. This is something to play with. And we're very concerned about injuries that result from that." Colucci said portable and permanent lifts range in cost from $4,000 to $10,000, but permanent lifts have additional installation costs. Pool operators said there is also widespread confusion about language in the law that says they must accommodate disabled individuals to the extent that it is "readily achievable" to do so. The Justice Department said the "readily achievable" language has been in the Americans with Disabilities Act since 1992, and is an acknowledgment that it is not always possible to remove all architectural barriers in an existing building at the outset. "Readily achievable" means that it is "easily accomplished" and can be done "without much difficulty or expense." Asked by CNN Thursday whether the rule requires permanent, "fixed" lifts, a Justice Department spokesman gave the following response: . "An existing pool must do what is readily achievable (affordable and easy). If a fixed lift is affordable and easy for that hotel, they need to provide a fixed lift. If only a portable lift is affordable and easy for that hotel, they can use a portable lift. If they already have a portable lift, they should explore whether it is affordable and easy to attach the lift. If no lift is achievable, they should make a plan to achieve access when it becomes readily achievable for them." That language seemingly gives wide latitude to pool operators. But Colucci says it also creates problems. "By having a definition that's so broad, you really don't give anybody any certainty," Colucci said. "Which means that you end up having to litigate the definition of what is 'readily achievable.'" In a press release Thursday, the Justice Department conceded there were "misunderstandings" about the pool law and extended the deadline 60 days. It also held open the possibility of even longer delays and said it will accept public comments on a possible six-month extension. CNN's Lizzie O'Leary contributed to this report. | Law requires "lifts" or other means to make public pools accessible to disabled people .
Confusion, fear of high costs, widespread closures emerged in recent months .
GOP lawmakers called "Poolmaggedon" an example of unwieldy government regulation .
Dept. of Justice says it will accept public comments on a possible six-month extension . |
190,281 | 825fcf12fee0039a5d1ef6e1caf06c15fa3e9651 | Maracana, Rio De Janeiro (CNN) -- The pressure suffocated those toiling on the grass, the gravity of a World Cup final adding weight to the air like plumbing a great depth in the ocean. That pressure was only intensified by the anxiety rolling down the terraces of the Maracana stadium, perhaps world football's holiest site. After four grueling weeks, across 64 games -- where 32 of the planet's best soccer nations scrapped and shot and passed and passed and passed each other to elimination -- it had come down to this. An estimated one billion people were watching, gripped, as the drama unfolded including a lucky, enthralled, 80,000 spectators in the seats of the arena. Two teams, forged on different sides of the planet, had been locked in combat for 90 minutes without significant advantage. Defenses had stood resolute, goalposts had been rattled, endeavor had created opportunity that even the great Lionel Messi had failed to capitalize on. Normal time had made way for extra time and -- with every energy-sapping minute played -- the Russian roulette of a penalty shootout edged ever closer. The legion of spectators that stood in the bowl were emotionally intoxicated and called on all superstitious and religious powers at their disposal to deliver them from doom. But not all in the arena had lost hope. Individual mental fortitude is difficult to attain, but at least with self growth the ability to change remains in one's own hands. A collective resilience, a communal resistance to set back, a refusal to be deterred from a group destiny requires careful nurture over years for all involved to believe in the same vision. The 2014 version of Die Nationalmannschaft had been patiently planned, engineered and inculcated. They'd waited for this moment for over a decade and now was not the time to buckle. "The lowest point came in Euro 2000 -- that was German football's nadir: very poor performances, a very poor team and very poor management," German football expert Rafael Honigstein told CNN. Germany's performance in the 2002 World Cup, where they lost in the final to Brazil, helped papered over the cracks, but it would take another two years for the real changes to the national game to filter through. "The grass roots reforms were already in place by the time Jurgen Klinnsman took over with Joachim Low in 2004," added Honigstein, referring to Germany's former and current coach. "The 10-year development you've seen culminate in Brazil benefited from two changes being made at more or less the same time. "Youth development was instilled to make sure young players were much better educated and had better facilities and coaching. "And at the same time there was a change of philosophy and footballing ideas at the very top -- after 10 years these two elements fused quite brilliantly to deliver the World Cup. "You have to credit the chairman of the German Football Association (DFB) at the time, Gerhard Mayer, who realized the needs for reform. He was able to get all the Bundesliga clubs, including the big ones, on board. "They all signed up to create academies and there was a spirit of cooperation, which was especially pronounced in those years, because Germany had won the right to host a World Cup in 2006. "There was a real fear the team and the footballing nation might embarrass themselves as hosts if they didn't make changes," said Honigstein. Germany's blueprint for change didn't come cheap and it needed the clubs to work closely with the DFB. "If everyone is pulling in the same direction it makes a big difference," added Honigstein. "You need a lot of money and you need the commitment to do it. Very few countries could replicate what Germany has done. "You have to consider they now have 366 centers of excellence for youth development throughout the country. "Bayern Munich has also been the driving force of the national team because they produce the best youngsters, and they buy the best German players and hone them, to make them even better. "It's no coincidence that when Bayern did well in the 1970s, 90s and now, the national team has benefited. "Bayern, under former president Uli Hoeness, always kept the greater good of the national team at the back of their minds and that's an important factor for the success of German football," explained Honigstein. Midfield dynamo Bastian Schweinsteiger would later dedicate Germany's final performance to Hoeness, as the man responsible for many of the players being where they are. Such long-term planning and dedication to a single goal, by the time the last match was being played in Brazil in 2014, was in the final throes of its application. The squad and the 11 men on the pitch were the fruition of a design drawn up long ago. The path to glory sewn into the psyche of everyone involved. With barely seven minutes left on the clock, Andre Schurrle, a man arguably only on the pitch due to injuries to two players selected before him, picked up the ball on the left wing, just inside of the opposition's half. With three Argentines in front of him he dared to be positive, to run forward with the ball. Navigating a slim gully on the flank he slithered past the retreating men in blue, ever nearer to the touchline. Five, 10, 20 yards he progressed until -- as defenders threatened to force him and the ball from the field of play -- he released a deft cross to the man in white on his right. Mario Gotze, one of seven Bayern players in the side and a man who entered the field of play as 88th-minute substitute, acted instinctively as if he had executed this maneuver a thousand times before. Without breaking stride he controlled the ball with a softening of his chest and then, as the near post of Sergio Romero's goal encroached, placed the ball across his body with a left-foot volley. The German-made Brazuca ball flew into the far side of the net and the three-time world champions of Franz Beckenbauer, Lothar Matthaus and Fritz Walter, were once again on top of the footballing world, this time under Philipp Lahm's leadership. It was a goal of sublime skill that epitomized all that has been good with Low's side in Brazil -- in one moment Gotze's goal ensured German dream had also come true. So what now lies ahead? Germany's future might bright but Honigstein argues they have some way to go to match the traditional global love felt for Brazil's " A Selecao." "The reality is, as soon as you start winning a lot of things people want to see you fail. "You can play beautiful football but people soon want another team to come to the fore, and accuse you of arrogance if you win too easily. "Germany can still grow as a team with some really exciting youngsters, the likes of Marco Reus and Julian Draxler, coming through," added Honigstein, referring to the Borussia Dortmund and Schalke attacking midfield players. "I think the future is bright, but will Germany be adopted as the world's favorite team? I doubt it very much." Maybe the German writer will be proved right, maybe there will always be a place in the heart of football fans for the poetry the Brazil of Pele, Zico and Rivelino invoked. But Brazil should not rest on its laurels. Cooperation for the greater good, investment and commitment to achieve the impossible was the German solution to their crisis nearly 15 years ago. As hosts of the tournament and so-called keepers of the soul of the beautiful game, it would be worth Brazilian football taking note as they experience their own nadir. Infographic: Why Brazil should have won . | Mission improbable: Germany's World Cup final win was 14 years in making .
Nadir: Poor performance in Euro 2000 prompted new German blueprint .
Solution: Emphasis and investment placed on youth development .
Result: Germany wins 2014 World Cup final with 1-0 victory over Argentina . |
267,076 | e5ef27db9f80eebb36b0839734bcc18c362732fe | Northampton produced a mighty finale to topple arch-rivals Leicester in a thundering Premiership semi-final on Friday night. A try two minutes from time by England flanker Tom Wood gave Northampton a Twickenham final later this month after Leicester had led 17-6 at half-time. Northampton did it the hard way after they had prop Salesi Ma’afu sent off for flooring England hooker Tom Youngs 17 minutes into the second half. Wood, who crashed over wide out on the left, sent Northampton’s fans delirious as their team ended a four-year period without a win over champions Leicester. Late blow: Tom Wood scores the match-winning try in the semi-final for Northampton over Leicester . Elation: Saints celebrate as they take the lead for the first time in the match to win through to the final . Northampton: Foden; Collins (Mercey 58), George Pisi (Wilson 67), Burrell, North; . Myler, Fotouali’i; Alex Waller (Corbisiero 52), Haywood, Ma’afu, Manoa, . Lawes, Wood, Dowson (capt) (Clark 52), Dickinson (Fotuali’i 63). Sent off: Ma’afu 57. Tries: North, Wood . Penalties: Myler (3) Conversions: Myler . Leicester: . Tait (Mafi 61); Morris, Tuilagi, Bowden, Goneva; Flood (Williams 63), . Ben Youngs; Ayerza, Tom Youngs, Mulipola, Deacon, Slater (capt), Gibson . (Briggs 58), Salvi, Crane. Sin bin: Goneva 29, Bowden 46, Tom Youngs 57. Tries: Tuilagi, Youngs . Pens: Flood, Williams Conversions: Flood (2) Referee: JP Doyle. Attendance: 13,591 . ‘That was the most intense match I’ve . ever played in,’ he said afterwards. ‘We left it late but we got the job . done. That was a proper game. It was so physical and credit to the . Leicester lads for making it as hard as it was.’ The . last-gasp victory was delivered by 14 men after Ma’afu was dismissed . in brawl which also brought a yellow card for Youngs from referee JP . Doyle. Youngs was one of . three Leicester players to be sin binned and their director of rugby . Richard Cockerill admitted his team’s lack of discipline cost them. ‘The . penalty count speaks for itself,’ he said. ‘It was nearly double . theirs. The indiscipline cost us. Dan’s yellow card gave them the . impetus and we could not get out of our own half.’ Jim . Mallinder, Northampton’s director of rugby, said: ‘I think we deserved . it. We were down at half-time but we kept moving their front five around . and to turn it around was a massive testament to the character of the . side.’ These two . arch-rivals would have a fierce tussle even if the only thing at stake . was local bragging rights. Over the past five years these contests, . dominated by Leicester’s success, have become hugely intense, heightened . by the large number of England players involved. Head-to-head: Saints prop Salesi Ma'afu and hooker Tom Youngs face off after a clash on the ground . Over the top: Ma'afu delivers an overhand left onto Youngs' chin, that gets him sent off . Crunch: Youngs is powerless as powerful Ma'afu clocks him on the chin . Off: Referee JP Doyle is given no choice but to show Ma'afu a red card, meaning he'll miss the final . Manu . Tuilagi has spent most of the season watching the rise of Northampton’s . Luther Burrell while the Leicester centre recovered from a torn . pectoral muscle. He had already rocked Burrell backwards in the move . which led to him finishing off a smart attack which put Leicester in . charge. Mat Tait’s half . break, which was followed by him gaining valuable metres on the floor, . cracked open the Northampton line, allowing fly half Toby Flood to work a . big overlap on the right. Flood kicked the conversion to add to his seventh-minute kick which had put Leicester in front. Stephen . Myler equalised in the 21st minute as Northampton enjoyed their best . period of the half thanks to the inventiveness of scrum-half Kahn . Fotuali’i. His running power had helped earn the penalty by catching out the Leicester defence as they trundled backwards. In the same period, a try by Phil Dowson was ruled out by the referee for a dummy jump before the ball was thrown in. Walkover: Leicester's Manu Tuilagi celebrates scoring the first try of the semi-final against Northampton . Breakthrough: England centre Tuilagi get the final touch on a slick backline move for the Tigers . Try-saver: Saints Kahn Fotuali'i is cut down short of the try line by an outstanding Matthew Tait tackle . The . disallowed try looked to be a crucial turning point as, apart from . another kick by Myler following a sin bin offence for Goneva in the 29th . minute, the rest of the half went Leicester’s way. After . Tuilagi had nimbly finished off for the opening try, Leicester’s second . came from blunt forward power. Prop Logovi’i Mulipola stormed forward . off a line-out and Leicester camped on the Northampton line. Ben Youngs, . who needs no second invitation to use his pace and power, darted over. Flood . added the conversion and Leicester turned round 17-6 and looked in . control. But Northampton came out swinging and, despite the loss of . Ma’afu for his punching of Youngs, the home team dominated the half. Away fans: Tigers' travelling supporters show their approval of their team's efforts early in the match . All-in: A melee breaks out on the sideline in a predictably spirited affair between the old rivals . A . third penalty from Myler in the 46th minute rewarded early pressure in . the half before the match exploded when Ma’afu and Youngs traded blows. Northampton kept on the pressure and worked North over for a try in the . 65th off a well-executed move. Myler converted to cut Leicester’s . deficit to 16-17. Owen Williams, who had replaced Toby Flood, edged Leicester further ahead at 20-16 thanks to a 65th-minute penalty. But . Northampton returned to the attack and the pressure eventually forced . Leicester’s defence to crack when Wood finished on the left. Myler, who . had contributed 11 points, missed the conversion but the one-point . advantage was enough to seal a famous win. Crunch: Saints' fullback Ben Foden is bought down by Tigers' rampaging centre Vereniki Goneva . Power play: Ben Youngs gives a fist pump after scoring while his Tigers were a man down . | England flanker Wood scored try in dying moments to give Saints lead .
Northampton now face the winner of Saracens and Harlequins in the final .
Tigers' Niki Goneva, Dan Bowden and Tom Youngs were shown yellow cards .
Saints finished the match with 14-men after Salesi Ma’afu was sent off .
Tries came through Manu Tuilagi and Ben Youngs for Leicester and George North and Wood for Northampton . |
95,465 | 06b2201ef3a30701e88cb93b4e6471e8fdf3b51a | By . Liz Hull . Victim of thugs: Grandmother of five Gillian Dudley-Smith . A retired teacher collapsed and died of a stroke after teenage thugs set fire to her car in the middle of the night, an inquest heard. Gillian Dudley-Smith, 78, a talented botanical artist, dialled 999 after a passing taxi driver alerted her to the Ford Fiesta ablaze on her driveway. As she stood helplessly watching the car go up in flames from her window, the grandmother of five suffered a massive stroke. She died a few hours later in hospital. An inquest was told two boys aged 14 and 15 were arrested in connection with the arson attack outside the £250,000 North Wales home that Mrs Dudley-Smith shared with her husband of 50 years, Eric. But they were later released without charge and no-one has ever been brought to justice for the crime. Coroner John Gittins said the stress of the blaze led to Mrs Dudley-Smith’s stroke. ‘Whoever set fire to the car on that night has played a part in her death,’ he said. The inquest heard there had been a spate of cars being set on fire in the Caia Park area of Wrexham where the couple lived. Mr Dudley-Smith, 81, usually parked his wife’s car in the garage overnight. But he had recently had back surgery and decided to leave it in the driveway on the evening of November 13 last year. Shortly before 4am Mrs Dudley-Smith, a regular churchgoer, was woken by a taxi driver who knocked on the front door to say the car was ablaze. She dialled 999 and stood watching the fire from their window. Mr Dudley-Smith said: ‘She sat down on the chair and suddenly, without warning, seemed to subside and slipped down the chair onto the floor.’ He told the court that a few days earlier his wife, who suffered from high blood pressure, had been upset after their garage and car were broken into. Police officer Michelle Robertson, who attended the scene, said the mother of two was showing symptoms of a stroke. Mrs Dudley-Smith was taken to Wrexham Maelor hospital, where she died a few hours later. A post-mortem examination confirmed the stroke caused her death. Two youths seen running from the scene were arrested but told police they were in bed at the time. ‘Following an extensive investigation a decision was made that there was insufficient evidence to prosecute,’ said Mr Gittins, coroner for North East Wales. Returning a narrative verdict, he added: ‘It is probable that the stress of the event led to the development of this condition and hence to her death. This is a very tragic case.’ Mrs Dudley-Smith was an acclaimed botanical artist at Ness Botanic Gardens in Wirral, and had exhibited her work across the country. Her husband described her as a ‘truly wonderful wife and mother’. Last night neighbours condemned the behaviour of the yobs who set fire to her car. Louise Ban, 49, who runs her own cleaning firm, said: ‘This was a horrible incident and an indictment of our society today.’ | Gillian Dudley-Smith died after Ford Fiesta was set ablaze on her driveway .
Two boys aged 14 and 15 were arrested in connection with the arson attack .
But they were later released without charge and crime has gone unpunished . |
97,526 | 0984a8356c0cf0d59122fd23d44c134c62f65963 | Spanish part-timers Cornella can look forward to a visit to the Bernabeu in December but it will be strictly tourism in the capital after Real Madrid all but confirmed their passage into the Copa del Rey quarter-finals with a convincing win in Wednesday night’s first leg. Cornella’s 27-year-old journeyman centre forward Oscar Munoz, whose career has taken him to 14 clubs, scored a memorable first-half goal but it was not enough to keep the tie alive. Third-tier side Cornella – led by captain and dentist David Garcia – gave a good account of themselves in the first half but conceded twice from corners scored by Real’s France centre back Rafael Varane and were taken apart in the second half as the Cup holders got into their stride. Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane leaps above Cornella's defence to score against Copa del Rey opponents Cornella . Cornella striker Munoz (left) scored a shock equaliser in the 20th minute but the underdogs did not stay on level terms for long . Varane doubled his tally for the night by beating Cornella goalkeeper Jose Manuel to the ball . UD Cornella: Manuel, Marin, Marti, Pelegri (Tapia 57), Tobella, Garcia, Gomez, Plazuelo (Gallar 58), Caballe, Xemi (Gaudioso 72), Munoz. Subs not used: Alberto, Boniquet. Goal: Munoz 20 . Real Madrid: Navas, Arbeloa, Varane, Nacho, Carvajal, Khedira, Illarramendi, Isco (Tomas 77), Rodriguez (Marcelo 61), Hernandez, Benzema (Medran 77). Subs not used: Pacheco, Romero. Goals: Varane 10, 36, Hernandez 53, Marcelo 75 . That will not take the shine off the second leg but it will be a night for swapping shirts and taking in the sights as opposed to repeating the heroics of third division side Alcorcon in the 2009 season, who they knocked Manuel Pellegrini’s Real Madrid out of the competition at this stage. Real never looked in trouble here. They scored on 10 minutes when a corner from James Rodriguez was headed in by Varane. Cornella were on level terms 10 minutes later when Muñoz took advantage of indecision in the Madrid defence to beat Keylor Navas for the equaliser. But the dream died on 36 minutes when Varane got on the end of another corner, this time from Isco, to head Madrid in front. In the second half Javier Hernandez scored Madrid’s third with a cross shot leaving Jose Segovia in the minnows’ goal helpless. Playing at Espanyol’s stadium because their own ground holds only 1,500 fans, Cornella had effectively lost home advantage and although Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti left Cristiano Ronaldo resting back in the capital along with Iker Casillas, Sergio Ramos and Luka Modric there was still enough talent on display to see off Cornella with Rodriguez controlling things in midfield. Hernandez could and should have got the fourth from Isco’s pass but couldn’t reach the midfielder’s pass at the back post. Marcelo came on as a second half substitute in place of Rodriguez and with a licence to play further forward took full advantage by getting on the scoresheet to make it 4-1. Isco’s shot was saved by Segovia and Marcelo fired the rebound into the roof of the keeper’s net. There were somersaults in his celebration for his 20th career goal for Madrid. The rest of Spain’s last-16 cup games will be played in December but with Madrid off to compete in the World Club Cup later that month they have been given special dispensation to play their first leg early. Sevilla, who they will play in a rearranged league match when the rest of Spain plays its first leg ties, were also allowed to bring forward their match. Varane is mobbed by his Real Madrid team-mates after putting his side in the lead with 10 minutes on the clock . Javier Hernandez, James Rodriguez and Sami Khedira all congratulate the France defender . Real Madrid centre back Varane scored his first two goals of the season against the third division outfit . Varane's effort heads towards the goal while Cornella's defenders look on in hope that the ball does not nestle in the back of the net . Carlo Ancelotti named Isco in a strong Real Madrid side alongside the likes of Karim Benzema, Rodriguez and Hernandez . Hernandez scores Real Madrid's third to put the first leg of the Copa del Rey encounter beyond doubt as Benzema captained the side . Hernandez receives a hug from Rodriguez after the Manchester United loanee scored in the 53rd minute . Real Madrid's No 14 looks to the sky after scoring his fourth goal since sealing a season-long loan move to the Bernabeu . Real Madrid ace Hernandez celebrates his goal by raising his hand in the air . Marcelo celebrates his fourth goal of the match and 20th career goal for Real Madrid with an acrobatic flip . The Brazilian full back, pictured celebrating his side's fourth goal, replaced Rodriguez in the 61st minute . VIDEO Ancelotti certain Ronaldo will win Ballon D'or . | Raphael Varane netted two goals in the first half of his side's Copa del Rey encounter against Cornella .
Oscar Munoz cancelled out Varane's opener before Real Madrid moved into second gear .
Manchester United loanee Javier Hernandez and substitute Marcelo completed the rout . |
92,953 | 0394f59082fbbef9747a02d9fffed5782ade6f3a | By . Sam Greenhill . PUBLISHED: . 16:35 EST, 12 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 01:35 EST, 13 May 2013 . If they were slow starters on the property ladder, Tony and Cherie Blair are certainly making up for lost time. After adding a seventh home to their portfolio only last September, they have already registered the purchase of property number eight. Like the previous £1.35million house, cash was again paid when they snapped up a £600,000 cottage for the former prime minister’s younger sister, Sarah Blair. Woodland retreat: The £600,000 cottage situated near the village of Wotton Underwood in Buckinghamshire was purchased by the Blairs in February for the former PM's younger sister Sarah . Close family: Tony Blair , pictured centre after his election as the Labour MP for Sedgefield in 1983 with his sister Sarah, left, father Leo, mother Olwen and older brother Bill, right . The pretty woodland retreat – about a . mile from the Blairs’ Buckinghamshire mansion for which they paid . £5.75million in 2008 – was bought three months ago on Valentine’s Day. Land . Registry documents show it is owned jointly and ‘equally’ by Sarah and . Cherie Blair. The homes the Blairs bought for their children are also . co-owned by Mrs Blair. Nestling on the edge of a wood, the picture-postcard cottage has three bedrooms and an expansive lawn with views across the grounds to stately home Wotton House. The cottage was sold by the Gladstone family, descendants of Victorian prime minister William Gladstone, who own Wotton House. In 2011, the cottage was available to rent unfurnished for £1,350 a month. An estate agent’s photographs showed spacious rooms decorated in buttermilk yellow, with wrought iron fireplaces and chandeliers. Yesterday the cottage was swarming with builders carrying out a refurbishment. Miss Blair, 56, was said to be abroad while the work was being done, and preparing for a freelance career in publishing. She recently left her job as chief executive of a small London publishing house specialising in the field of equal opportunities. Mr Blair, 60, is said to be protective of his sister, who is unmarried, has no children and shuns publicity. He has said that they and their brother Bill were all very close and that he would often turn to his siblings for emotional support. Until recently Miss Blair lived in a £450,000 flat in Islington, North London. The Blairs also lived in Islington until the 1997 election when they moved to No 10 and sold their home only to see it rocket in value. Now the combined estimated value of the eight properties in their portfolio is nearly £21million. Mr Blair reputedly earns £20million a year from government advisory work, speeches and consultancy work and has amassed a fortune of up to £60million. Yesterday, neither the Blairs nor Sarah Blair wished to comment. Tony and Cherie Blair have come under fire after it emerged that their charities were given nearly £1million from the US government’s foreign aid budget. The grants came while Mrs Blair’s friend Hillary Clinton was Secretary of State and would have been responsible for the cash. In December the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women was given £405,000. In 2011, the African Governance Initiative, one of Mr Blair’s charities, was given £550,000. The Blairs have denied their relationship with Mrs Clinton had anything to do with the awards. But the National Taxpayers Union, a US campaign group, has called for an investigation, saying ‘more transparency is needed’. Impressive portfolio: Tony Blair and his wife Cherie, pictured at Baroness Thatcher's funeral last month, now own a total of eight properties . Investment: The Blair purchased a Georgian town house in Westminster, London for £3.65million . | Three-bedroom property in Buckinghamshire was bought on February 14 .
Cottage is jointly owned by Cherie Blair and her husband's sister Sarah .
Combined estimated wealth of the Blairs' property portfolio is nearly £21m . |
39,326 | 6f1f25365bd131c0caf19acf0f4fd02a3535f538 | ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (CNN) -- A military offensive to rid Pakistan's northwest of al Qaeda and Taliban fighters has killed more than 1,000 militants since it began in full force earlier this month, the country's interior ministry said Sunday. A Pakistani girl displaced by the offensive against the Taliban rests at a camp Saturday north of Islamabad. Officials also said that only 2 percent of the North West Frontier Province remains under Taliban control as a result of the operation. Both claims were difficult to verify independently. The government did not say whether the operation resulted in civilian casualties, or how many people it displaced. The United Nations said Saturday that more than a million people have been displaced as a result of the two-week-old offensive. The U.S-led coalition and NATO -- based in Afghanistan -- have long said Pakistan is not being proactive enough in battling militants who are launching attacks from Pakistan's swath of tribal areas along the border. Pakistan has denied the claim. But the country's military launched an intense operation to rout out militants from the area after Taliban fighters took control of a district just 60 miles from the capital, Islamabad. The control of the Buner district brought the Taliban closer to the capital of the nuclear-armed country than it had been since it mounted its insurgency. Watch car bomb, drone attack in Pakistan » . | Pakistani troops fighting to oust Taliban militants from volatile province .
U.S-led coalition and NATO, based in Afghanistan, have long criticized Pakistan .
Islamabad, coalition says, not effective in halting border attacks from inside Pakistan .
Pakistan has denied the claims, has launched operations to rout out militants . |
136,583 | 3cae9d65a05e904d0703c1dbb0d42e2af1f70275 | Lee Tomlin pulled off the prank of the transfer window, as he hinted at a move away from promotion-chasing Middlesbrough on deadline day - only to later insist it was just a joke. The 26-year-old, who has been in impressive form for Aitor Karanka's side so far this season, gave some Boro fans a bit of a shock after a series of Tweets from his Twitter account indicated he was on his way to Premier League outfit Leicester City. Tomlin started it off by posting 'It's snowing bad in Leicester', prompting some panicked fans to reply back in less than favourable terms to the midfielder. Lee Tomlin scores a disallowed goal for Middlesbrough in their FA Cup win against Manchester City . The 26-year-old has been in good form for Middlesbrough so far this season . Although some realised that Tomlin was having a laugh, he continued with the joke later tweeting 'Sorry pal @liammoore93 took your spot in the changing room' and 'Huth is bigger than I thought'. He eventually put some worried Boro fans out of their misery tweeting: 'Hahahah only joking lets get promoted this season we can do it #UTB'. With Leicester currently fighting against relegation in the Premier League and Middlesbrough flying high near the top of the Championship - just one point off the joint leaders Bournemouth and Derby - such move would have come as a surprise, anyway. | Lee Tomlin teased fans that he was moving to Leicester on deadline day .
The Middlesbrough midfielder made out he was on the move on Twitter .
Some worried fans were far from happy with Tomlin's tweets .
However, Tomlin's tweets were all in good jest .
He later tweeted that he was only joking and that he is looking forward to the rest of the season as Middlesbrough look to earn promotion . |
237,679 | bfa0861301b942b889162fd289e3fc0c1bb57a8d | Washington (CNN) -- When President Barack Obama steps in front of cameras Wednesday, he'll be addressing a nation that's simultaneously war-weary and ready for more military action against ISIS; critical of Obama's handling of the crisis yet largely supportive of his commitment to keep combat troops out. Those currents of public opinion, however convoluted, will shape how Obama frames his strategy for "degrading and ultimately defeating" the Islamic State militants in Iraq and Syria, which Americans now believe pose a real threat and must be combated. Here's what the polling suggests Americans are listening for when Obama speaks Wednesday: . What's your plan? When Obama admitted to reporters his administration lacked a strategy for combating ISIS in Syria, Americans largely agreed with him. More than two-thirds said in CNN's most recent survey the President lacked a clear plan for dealing with the militant jihadists. Countering that perception will be Obama's main challenge on Wednesday, and aides say he'll point to both the ongoing U.S. effort in Iraq and new efforts to train and equip local forces as evidence of a clear plot to go after the terrorists. He's open to airstrikes in Syria, officials say, and wants a broad coalition of allied countries to back him up. That puts him in agreement with the nearly three quarters of Americans who say they're ready for a broader air campaign to defeat ISIS in Iraq and Syria. Certain specifics of the Obama plan, however, may be hard to come by -- on Tuesday, the White House said Obama would offer neither a timeline for his strategy in defeating ISIS nor a price tag. "I wouldn't expect something that's quite that detailed," Press Secretary Josh Earnest said. "But the President is very interested in communicating clearly with the American public about what our priorities are and what our plans include." Analysts say whatever strategy Obama announces -- be it airstrikes, broader training, or both -- must have a clearly articulated goal. "The biggest mistake would be not presenting a strategy that's decisive," said retired CENTCOM commander Anthony Zinni. "I think he has to clearly lay out what the objectives are. If it's the destruction of ISIS, that has significant meaning." Obama: U.S. to "start going on some offense" Is ISIS a threat in the United States? Americans are worried about ISIS -- two-thirds told CNN in a poll the group posed a very or fairly serious threat. The White House agrees, saying the Islamic militants could threaten "core American interests." But as recently as Tuesday, the White House maintained ISIS had no current plans to attack the U.S. at home. "There is no evidence to indicate that ISIL right now is actively plotting to hit the homeland," Earnest said, using the administration's name for the terror group. "It is important for people to understand that." So without a specific looming threat, Americans will want to hear the President's reasoning for ramping up U.S. military effort against the group -- particularly after the rhetoric used to begin the last war in Iraq turned out to be false. A majority of Americans do say they were upset by the ISIS beheadings of Americans journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff, and Obama has warned of Western-born foreign fighters who have the potential to return to the U.S. to stage terror plots. The timing of the speech -- on the eve of the September 11 attack anniversary -- will only serve to remind Americans of how terrorism can hit at home, even as federal officials maintain there's no current risk of attacks from ISIS. And while terrorism still ranks well below the economy as the issue most important to Americans, it is rising in standing. Just two years ago only 3% of Americans said it was their top issue; now 14% say it's what they care most about. Analysis: ISIS threat to U.S. mostly 'hype' Why not have Congress approve? When Obama was last considering airstrikes in Syria -- one year ago following President Bashar al-Assad's use of chemical weapons on civilians -- he scrapped his plans when it became clear Congress wasn't on board. This time around things are different. Any action Obama announces Wednesday night won't require authorization from Congress, the White House announced, though they're still looking for support from lawmakers. The past 12 months in Syria have created a new dynamic. It's now clear al-Assad isn't leaving power, having turned over his chemical weapons to international control. The terror groups that Obama predicted would gain a foothold in Syria have. And Congress is now closer to midterm elections in which a vote for broad military power could be politically harmful. That means the President will use his existing powers to go after the jihadist group which now controls land spanning the border between Iraq and Syria. The current air campaign in Iraq relies on Obama's ability to order strikes that protect American interests and help alleviate potential humanitarian crises. Airstrikes against ISIS in Syria, an option Obama is open to, would require those parameters to be broadened -- and that will require some explaining to the American people. CNN's poll showed a large majority -- 72% of Americans -- want Congress to sign off on new military force against ISIS. But even some lawmakers themselves aren't so sure. The top Democrats in Congress -- Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi -- both said they agreed with the White House decision to forgo Congressional approval. Related: CNN Poll finds most Americans alarmed by ISIS . Are U.S. troops heading in? The short answer is no. Obama, having been elected to office partly on his pledge to draw down the American combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, has adamantly maintained he won't be sending American troops back into war. "You also cannot, over the long term or even the medium term, deal with this problem by having the United States serially occupy various countries all around the Middle East. We don't have the resources. It puts enormous strains on our military. And at some point, we leave. And then things blow up again," he told NBC News last week. "We've got to have a more sustainable strategy, which means the boots on the ground have to be Iraqi. ... And in Syria, the boots on the ground have to be Syrian." But there is an asterisk. A few hundred American troops are on the ground in Iraq to advise and help the military there. Such cooperation would be extremely difficult in Syria, where the President called long ago for the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad. | President Obama will lay out his plan to deal with ISIS in Iraq and Syria .
CNN's poll suggests Americans are alarmed at the prospect of a terror attack .
But the public does not support putting American troops on the ground .
It is unlikely Congress will need to vote to authorize military action . |
171,133 | 697f53574dcad2160e63a2dbc9405ec9ccce08c4 | By . Kimberly Lavey . PUBLISHED: . 12:09 EST, 7 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 08:55 EST, 28 November 2013 . He has been labelled as one of the most stylish men in the world, and has a string of designer collaborations under his belt. Now David Beckham is set to take on further global wardrobe domination by joining British fashion label Belstaff. The retired footballer has just been announced as the new face of luxury brand Belstaff’s 2014 advertising campaign. Shot on UK soil in Buckinghamshire the creative concept behind the shoot captures a ‘band of brothers traveling across the English countryside’ led by Beckham. Scroll down for video . David Beckham poses with his band of brothers in the latest campaign shot for Belstaff. The star was today announced as the new face of the luxury British brand . David, 38, can clearly be seen in the centre of the shot lying across a hay bale as poses naturally for the camera. The black and white portrait – captured by renowned German photographer Peter Lindbergh – shows off Beckham‘s modelesque physique. He still manages to look rugged enough to be a biker boy though as he frowns in to the camera surrounded by the rest of his biker gang which includes models Andreea Diacounu, Tom Firth, Christian Gajdus and Will Bowden. The father-of-four looks casually fabulous in the label's classic leather jacket, a simple T-Shirt and biker trousers. In the past Beckham has noted his love for riding bikes and it seems this dream has become a reality for the luxury campaign. Model moment: Beckham is no beginner when it comes to modelling. Here the ex-footballer is seen left, posing for his body wear range at H&M and right, in a vintage inspired leather jacket . In September Beckham appeared at the Belstaff store opening in Bond Street where he commented how he loved ‘being able to work with a brand that has so much history and is very British’. He said: ‘I began wearing a lot of Belstaff a few years back when I started riding bikes. I actually found my first [Belstaff jacket] when I was shopping in a vintage store, funnily enough, about six or seven years ago and I still wear that when I'm riding.’ Beckham has also famously modelled in the past for brands such as Armani and of course to promote his own underwear range for H&M. Suave: David Beckham looks fab as he dresses up in a tailored suit . | Global icon named as new face of Belstaff .
Beckham opened Bond Street store in September .
Superstar has modelled for Armani and H&M in past . |
182,028 | 77b1970f1399bfe958dbcb7838b762f489142ce4 | By . Liz Thomas . PUBLISHED: . 19:56 EST, 11 April 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 03:36 EST, 12 April 2012 . Downsizing: When Mark Thompson took on the role in 2004 he had a basic salary of £609,000 and a further £10,000 in pension top-ups and bonuses . The new BBC director general will not be eligible for a bonus or pension top-ups and will have a salary under £500,000. In a sign that the corporation has heeded public anger at inflated salaries, the corporation has dramatically scaled back the perks of the job. When Mark Thompson took on the role in 2004 he had a basic salary of £609,000 and a further £10,000 in pension top-ups and bonuses. By 2010 his total remuneration package was at a high of £838,000 before he agreed to curb is pay as part of rigorous cost-cutting measures. Thompson, 54, now earns £671,000 a year but one senior insider said it would be “a surprise” if the new director general is paid more than £450,000. The BBC has now begun its search for a replacement, unveiling an advert for the role on its website calling for an 'inspirational' leader to take the helm. Despite the job being both chief executive and editor-in-chief of one of the biggest news providers, broadcasters and producers in the world, it is not a 'must have' for applicants to have journalistic or programme-making experience. The advert said: ‘Experience as a journalist and/or programme maker would be desirable but is not essential,’ the ad states. ‘Understanding of new platforms and technologies (for example, online and mobile) is essential. Experience of harnessing these to transform business performance would be valuable.’ Odds on: The BBC's chief operating officer Caroline Thomson is favourite for the role according to bookmakers William Hill who have made her 5/2 on to get the job . It also stipulated the new boss needed to 'be able to admit quickly when in the wrong... but stand up to huge pressure without bending when s/he believes that it is right so to do.' Mr Thompson announced he was stepping down last month and said he would go 'once the Olympics and the rest of the amazing summer of 2012 are over.' He said he wanted his successor to “have time to really get their feet under the table” before the next review of the BBC charter which will take place before the end of 2016. The advert states: 'The Trust is looking for an inspirational leader with the strong, clear vision that will take the BBC through the next review of the Corporation’s Charter, ready for the world as it will be in 10 or 15 years time.' The BBC’s chief operating officer Caroline Thomson is favourite for the role according to bookmakers William Hill who have made her 5/2 on to get the job. Finish line: Mr Thompson announced he was stepping down last month and said he would go 'once the Olympics and the rest of the amazing summer of 2012 are over' Other contenders include George Entwistle - director of BBC Vision - who is 11/4 and current ITV boss Peter Fincham who is 12/1. BBC Trust chairman Lord Patten has made clear that whoever takes over - they will not be paid as much as Mark Thompson. He said in a recent interview: ‘The biggest issue for the public is senior executive pay, because what’s happened does seem to fly in the face of public service ethos. ‘And I think we can deal with all that; and if we do so, we’ll deal with one of the most toxic reasons for the public’s lack of sympathy for the BBC as an institution, even though they like enormously what it does.’ One suggestion he made was capping senior salaries but he has made clear that he feels there should be a limit to the number of BBC executives who are paid more than the Prime Minister’s £142,500 a year. The advert states that 'remuneration will reflect the unique challenge and privilege of leading the BBC, as well as the fact that it is financed by licence fee payers.' Big move: Mr Thompson also oversaw the move to Salford which has seen around 2,500 staff move north and some high-profile faces, including BBC Breakfast presenter Sian Williams, refuse to go . It adds that there will be a “annual base salary” but no “variable component” which refers to bonuses and pension top ups. Applicants have until May 7 to throw their name into the hat and it is hoped that a successor will be found by the summer. Mr Thompson’s time in the top job saw the BBC hit by scandals including Sachsgate which saw a public outcry over obscene messages left by Jonathan Ross and Russell Brand on Andrew Sachs’ answerphone which were then broadcast on Brand’s Radio 2 show. In 2007, there was also Crowngate which saw Mr Fincham, then BBC1 controller, resign after misleading footage appearing to show the Queen storming out of a photoshoot was used in a trailer. Issues of excessive pay, salaries for top talent and the treatment of older women presenters also caused problems. Mr Thompson also oversaw the move to Salford which has seen around 2,500 staff move north and some high-profile faces, including BBC Breakfast presenter Sian Williams, refuse to go. Successes include the launch of the iPlayer which has been a huge hit and allows viewers to catch up on shows via internet-connected TVs, computers and mobile phones. Mr Thompson also oversaw the Delivering Quality First process which saw the BBC commit to saving billions of pounds from its budget after the annual licence fee was frozen at £145.50 for six years. | Corporation has heeded public anger at high salaries, and has dramatically scaled back the perks of the job .
BBC’s chief operating officer Caroline Thomson is favourite for the role according to bookmakers . |
168,293 | 65aafbb5692feaf9128a7d35419d358f6273fc6b | When Newcastle United signed Siem de Jong for just £6 million in July, Alan Pardew hailed the capture as a 'coup'. Once again the club's transfer model – headed by chief scout Graham Carr – was lauded as the envy of Europe. But De Jong was no secret – he was, after all, a title-winning Ajax captain and Holland international who had scored three times against Manchester City in the Champions League. Newcastle United midfielder Siem de Jong has been ruled out for at least eight weeks with a collapsed lung . The former Ajax star signed for Newcastle last summer for a £6million fee but has struggled with injuries . Why, then, did Newcastle land the attacking midfielder virtually unopposed and at a seemingly bargain price? Perhaps now we know. Worryingly, Newcastle should have known in the summer. It was confirmed on Tuesday that De Jong will miss the next two months because of a collapsed lung, the second time in 18 months he has been hospitalised with such a serious problem. Now a collapsed lung is scary enough, a recurring collapsed lung is terrifying. This isn't a calf, hamstring or thigh strain – although he has suffered from each of those – this is a vital organ breaking down, again. The 26-year-old was only days away from a return to action after five months out with a torn thigh muscle when the Magpies revealed he had undergone surgery on his lung. Before the thigh problem he had missed much of pre-season with a calf injury. Indeed, De Jong has made just one start and one substitute appearance in the Premier League for United. It was in August, 2013 that he was first sidelined with a collapsed lung. He returned but his progress was hampered by niggling muscle strains. In addition to his lung problems, De Jong's career has been blighted by a series of recurring muscle strains . Before his injury-hit 2013-2014 campaign, De Jong had scored over 15 goals in four consecutive seasons . Interestingly, Newcastle had been watching the player for 14 months before bringing him to Tyneside – Carr, Pardew and Peter Beardsley had all checked in on the elegant playmaker. They were prepared to discount last season and instead focused on his undoubted pedigree – for he'd barely missed a game during the previous four campaigns in which he scored north of 15 goals on each occasion. But De Jong's own comments about his initial lung episode – and his subsequent struggle for fitness – should read as a warning, and perhaps concern, for United going forward. 'It (the collapsed lung) was quite scary,' he said. 'It happened at the beginning of the season, and after that I had to be in bed for a couple of weeks. 'Looking back afterwards, we didn't focus enough on my entire body and focused too much on the lung. 'The lung was good after three weeks but the rest of the body just wasn't strong enough to play games, and that's what we forgot a little. 'During the season I had some other small injuries which was part of not being strong enough.' While playing for Ajax, De Jong scored three times against Manchester City in the Champions League . De Jong won four back-to-back Eredivisie titles between 2010 and 2014 and has six caps for Holland . And that is the worry for Newcastle, not only the fear of a recurrence, but the impact a collapsed lung has on the strength of the body. There is a precedent in these parts. Former Durham cricketer Mark Davies – brother of Bradford City defender, Andrew – twice suffered a collapsed lung during his career and was plagued by other injuries, eventually forcing his retirement last year. De Jong is unlikely to feature until the final weeks of this season, meaning his campaign will have been written-off by injury. Having signed him to a six-year contract, Newcastle can only hope we aren't writing that again. Newcastle fans will hope that the man hailed as Yohan Cabaye's replacement can return to full fitness soon . | Siem de Jong has been ruled out of action for at least eight weeks .
He has suffered a collapsed lung for the second time in his career .
Newcastle signed the former Ajax captain for £6million in the summer .
But the midfielder's injury-prone past was no secret . |
214,683 | a1f5960f01bd86ba5c11f1f4784d4d2747e77c8f | By . Alex Finnis for MailOnline . A solitary, strangely-shaped building known by locals as the 'doughnut' is all that will ever exist of what the Spanish hoped would become an ambitious 'Legal City' in Madrid. The Madrid Regional Government has cancelled the 500 million-euro project with just one building erected, due to lack of funding. Around 19 million euros had already been invested in the plan, which is the latest in a number of Spanish projects forced to be cancelled because of the financial crisis. The doughnut - more officially known as the Legal Medical Institute - is now nothing but an abandoned reminder, and has a sign outside banning people from entering. The sorry building site is beside Barajas Airport, and also close to the Madrid Four Towers skyscrapers and Real Madrid sport city. Spain was hit extremely hard by the recession, and this has resulted in a number of half-finished buildings being dotted around the country. They include the InTempo skyscraper in Bedidorm - a 47-storey block of flats which was left without a lift - and the Nou Mestalla - a 61,500-seater football stadium designed to be the new home of Valencia, where construction started in 2007, but still sits unfinished. What a doughnut! The Legal Medical Institute has accrued an unfortunate nickname from locals and now sits useless and abandoned . No entry: There is a sign outside the building banning people other than construction workers from going in, as weeds build up outside . All alone: The building was supposed to be the first stage of a proposed 'Legal City' - a project which would have cost 500 million euros . What a waste of money: The project had to be abandoned for financial reasons after 19 million euros was already spent on getting it up and running . Now what? The abandonment of the project has left a huge empty space in the Madrid suburbs, and is one of many failed building ideas in Spain . A meaningful sundown: The sun sets over the Legal Medical Institute and also on Spain's plans for an ambitious 'Legal City' The long road to nowhere: A solitary cyclist pedals along the road in front of where other buildings in the 'Legal City' were supposed to stand . | Spanish had planned for a 500 million-euro 'Legal City' to be built in outskirts of Madrid beside Barajas Airport .
Project had to be cancelled after 19million spent and just one building erected - the Legal Medical Institute . |
118,607 | 2524e103ce4d33d20d34bb065a757e0993722992 | (CNN) -- The floral, serene surrounds of London's Chelsea Flower Show seem a million miles from the screeching, full-throttle action of Formula One. But the two worlds have merged in a unique and award-winning way thanks to the Williams F1 team and a British tree nursery. "The Williams Story" is a topiary display which depicts the history of the nine-time constructors' champions, from their origins in 1977 to Pastor Maldonado's historic victory at the Spanish Grand Prix earlier this month. And, in keeping with the green shoots of recovery which were visible during Williams' first race win in eight years, the piece features a life-sized topiary Formula One car. The eye-catching display, which also boasts a pit crew sculpted from living trees, has been handed a gold medal at the prestigious annual British horticultural event. "Winning the gold medal is a fantastic achievement," Williams founder and team principal Frank Williams said. "I saw it for the first time (this week) and was taken aback by its scale and attention to detail. "The Chelsea Flower Show is a uniquely British occasion and to be successful at this illustrious event is a great honor. I hope the public enjoy the display as much as the judges." The topiary took over three years to complete and was sculpted using a fast-growing plant native to south-west China. The honor provides Williams with a timely boost ahead of this weekend's Monaco Grand Prix, with the team looking to build on Maldonado's win -- the first by a Venezuelan in the history of the sport. Williams' celebrations were cut short by a fire in the team garage, a blaze which left seven people in hospital. The incident also resulted in Williams losing vital parts and equipment, but the team's chief operations engineer Mark Gillan moved to thank the other F1 manufacturers for the support they have shown. "The team's preparations for Monaco have been somewhat hampered by last Sunday's garage fire," Gillan said on the official F1 website. "But the impact of the fire has been mitigated by what can only be described as a Herculean effort by the factory and our suppliers to restock both the damaged equipment and car parts. "We would also like to thank the generous offers of help from the other teams, highlighting once more the excellent sportsmanship that exists in Formula One and high levels of camaraderie throughout the pit lane." | Williams the subject of a topiary display at the Chelsea Flower Show .
"The Williams Story" features a life-size topiary Formula One car and pit crew .
The display has been awarded the annual horticultural event's prestigious gold medal .
Williams have thanked other F1 teams for their help following garage fire in Spain . |
27,193 | 4d18b0b27edc856cb68adccf5fbd45ea417887f2 | By . Derek Lawrenson . The formidable task of trying to win a third tournament in a row at The Open Championship is the sort of problem Justin Rose will happily take on. It is certainly a great deal preferable to the fool’s gold scenario he was wrestling with when the Claret Jug was last contested at Royal Liverpool in 2006. Never mind the hottest player in the field at Hoylake. Back then, his game was so stone cold he could not even make the starting line-up. Instead of the old-world charm of the Dee Estuary he was living the life of Reilly with the millionaire set off the coast of the South of France in a luxury boat — and rather wishing that he wasn’t. Relaxed: Justin Rose says he has nothing to prove ahead of The Open at Hoylake . VIDEO Rose looking to complete Open hat-trick . ‘That was certainly a strange week,’ he recalled. ‘I was half having a great time, living in the most lavish of environments, but people were asking me who was going to win The Open. There was a major going on, and so I didn’t really want to be in St Tropez.’ He is exactly where he wants to be this week. Brimming with confidence before the event that has become his No 1 priority. And so after the various failures, from the rugby to the cricket to the tennis to the football to the cycling, the hopes of a British sporting summer now lie with this quiet 33-year-old who first came to light at The Open in 1998 when he finished joint fourth as a 17-year-old amateur. With that stunning performance at Birkdale in mind Rose once said he would not feel his story was complete unless he won the Claret Jug. If truth be told, the millstone of that mental burden he placed upon himself has manifested itself in his poor record since, with not a single top-10 Open finish as a pro. But he has a more rational take now. ‘I did say that, didn’t I?’ he chuckled ‘I don’t think like that any more. A lot of that feeling went away when I won the United States Open last year. I’ve won my major now, and so it means I’m not going to The Open with any sense of having to prove myself. Teenage kicks: Rose celebrates finishing fourth at Birkdale in 1998 with mother Annie and late father Ken . ‘I’m over that part of my life. I feel the years of having to live up to what I did at Birkdale, or surpass it or justify it or whatever — that’s gone. It’s just part of my story.’ We met on the eve of the Scottish Open last week. Rose was hosting a clinic for TaylorMade, one of his sponsors, and, bogged down with allergies, he was feeling dreadful. It just sums up what a player he has become that he could go from that state to turn in such a commanding performance over the following four days to win the event. His victory in his previous start in the Quickens Loans National in America’s capital had been all about guts and determination. At Royal Aberdeen he showed all the class of a man now ranked rightly in the world’s top three golfers. ‘I went to Washington feeling like it had been a slow start to the year,’ said Rose. ‘I had played some good golf but nothing had really happened. ‘And then, on the first day, I was four over par after nine and obviously not playing well. To end up winning was unbelievable. It was an out-of-the blue win if ever there was, and what has given me so much confidence are the putts I holed on the 17th and 18th holes. ‘I’d never holed a good putt to win a tournament. I’d always had two putts for it, or a tap-in. So now I’m standing over this 20-foot putt and Fooch (his caddie, Mark Fulcher) has spelled out that this is one I have to make. ‘Now I’m developing the belief that when I need to make some putts I can make them. It started at the Ryder Cup at Medinah against Phil Mickelson in the singles and now this win. Now the whole year has been tipped into a more positive light. I can relax and freewheel a bit, knowing I’ve got wins under my belt, I don’t have to worry about the Ryder Cup and I’m grateful for the lift. These wins gave me a boost in all sorts of ways.’ Rose began the Scottish Open last week seeing it purely as a tune-up for The Open. ‘As the week went on that all changed,’ he said. ‘I hung around on day one and then played really well in the second round and started to really enjoy myself. ‘It’s a great event in its own right on a great course. I’d never won a tournament in Scotland, the home of golf, so it was a fabulous week.’ Great Scot: The world No 3 was delighted to win north of the border for the first time . He knows what comes next. Hype and expectation ramped up to the Nth degree. It’s an unequivocal blessing to have a home crowd in many sports but in golf, when you have so much time to think between shots, it can be a negative. ‘It’s the best feeling in the world if you’re playing well but if you’re off your game a bit you can sense the crowd getting edgy and you have to be careful that doesn’t affect you mentally,’ he said. Rose took in Wimbledon recently and was delighted to bump into Jack Nicklaus. Like Rory McIlroy two weeks earlier, he was eager to pick the great man’s brain. ‘I’m always interested in talking to him about how he prepped for majors,’ said Rose. ‘How can you not learn from him? We talked about the patience you need over the first three days and just trying to put yourself in position. My favourite stat about Jack is not that he won 18 majors but he finished second in 19 more. That’s over nine years of his life that he finished first or second in majors. Isn’t that incredible?’ Winning three tournaments in a row is an awful lot to ask when you’ve never previously won two but again, Rose will turn back the clock to 2006 for perspective. By Royal appointment: Rose, sitting next to rugby legend Brian O'Driscoll, at Wimbledon earlier this month . ‘If you’d panned my life out while I was sitting on that boat in exactly the way it has unfolded I would definitely have taken that,’ he said. ‘Dealing with the challenge of trying to win three tournaments in a row is the one all pros want. ‘When you’re not playing majors and you haven’t got your form, that’s the hard part. It feels such a long way back before you’re playing well again. Now I can just turn up and be myself. I don’t have to play great all week or play out of my skin. I need to do a good job over the first three days, see where I am and give myself a chance. If that happens I believe in myself now to go on and win. It’s so much more fun when you reach this stage and a more relaxed way of going into majors.’ Could he turn out to be the unlikely hero of this British sporting summer? Wouldn’t that be a victory for modesty and decorum? Rose offers a lovely, wry response. Nothing to prove: The Englishman lifts his first major trophy at last year's US Open . ‘It has been the opposite of last summer so far, hasn’t it, when Andy (Murray) did his thing at Wimbledon and the Olympics and all the other successes? So let’s hope the law of averages plays its part. ‘We’ve been through all these disappointments, whether it be in rugby, football, cricket or the Tour de France. ‘Let’s just hope the pendulum has swung in our favour.’ Justin Rose was speaking at the anniversary of the #1 Driver on Tour – the TaylorMade SLDR. To find out more about SLDR and the innovation behind Loft Up visit: http://www.taylormadegolf.co.uk/ . VIDEO 'New feeling' for defending champion Mickelson . | World No 3 Justin Rose has won his last two tournaments .
British hopes rest on Rose at The Open after poor summer for football, cricket, rugby and cycling .
Rose finished joint-fourth at Birkdale in 1998 as a 17-year-old .
Rose has not finished in the top 10 at The Open since .
Won his first major trophy at last year's US Open . |
271,209 | eb4ed361308b2142a60aa093bd861a7617fb783f | Tegucigalpa, Honduras (CNN) -- U.S. Vice President Joe Biden vowed Tuesday to help Honduras and other Central American nations defeat drug traffickers and fight corruption. But at a meeting with Central American presidents in Honduras, Biden stopped short of supporting a proposal that has gained growing attention in the region in recent weeks: drug legalization. Guatemalan President Otto Perez Molina said last month that he supported measures to decriminalize drug production, trafficking and consumption. On Tuesday, Central American leaders announced plans to debate the idea at a meeting later this month. Biden "said that he was in favor of an open and genuine debate about the decriminalization of drugs as long as the procedures and possible results are analyzed," according to a Honduran government statement distributed to reporters after Tuesday's meeting. "Resources cannot be wasted if they are not going to achieve concrete results," the statement said, quoting Biden. "Resources must be focused on integrated, conclusive strategies and programs." After meeting with Mexican President Felipe Calderon on Monday, Biden said there was no chance the Obama administration would change its policy opposing drug legalization, according to Mexico's state-run Notimex news agency. "In every country that has experimented with the legalization or decriminalization of drug consumption, the part of the population that consumes illegal substances grows," he said, according to Notimex. In an interview with CNN en Español last month, Perez Molina defended his position. "What I've done is put the topic back on the table. I think it is important for us to have other alternatives and to talk about decriminalization. ... We need to talk about decriminalization of the production, the transportation and, of course, consumption," he said. On Tuesday night, Honduran President Porfirio Lobo said Central American leaders meeting in Tegucigalpa "listened with attention and interest to the proposal of the president of Guatemala about the search for alternative mechanisms for the fight against drug trafficking" and would debate the issue at a meeting in Guatemala on March 24. Honduras is a key drug trafficking corridor and has the world's highest murder rate, with 82.1 murders per 100,000 inhabitants in 2010, according to the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime. Lobo and other Central American leaders have repeatedly argued that drug use in the United States fuels escalating violence throughout the region. On Tuesday, Biden told reporters the United States "shared responsibility" but also noted that Central American countries must work to stop drug production. He pledged that the United States would provide economic assistance and training to Honduran law enforcement and judicial officials. "One of the areas in which we will hopefully be of help is in vetting the police, the prosecutors and the judges," Biden said. "My experience has been: The people of the country have to be able to have confidence in the integrity of each of those institutions, if progress is going to be made." Journalist Elvin Sandoval and CNN's Patricia Janiot contributed to this report. | NEW: Central American leaders will debate drug legalization on March 24 .
Joe Biden says he supports debate over drug legalization, but U.S. won't change stance .
The vice president says the U.S. shares responsibility for security problems in the region .
Guatemala's president has said he supports decriminalization measures . |
214,546 | a1cd8328d243a9e15a52aee6f0dba0623b0216c2 | Dover, New Hampshire (CNN) -- The Tuttle farming legacy may come to an end soon. Since 1635, the Tuttle farm has been passed from father to son and after years of thought, Will Tuttle has put what's known as the country's longest family-run farm up for sale. As the 11th generation Tuttle man to farm this now 134-acre plot of land in New Hampshire, Will Tuttle says he has no regrets. "I'm not a museum curator, I'm a farmer," Tuttle says. He's tall, lean and tanned from head to toe, apart from his red cheeks and white beard. Shaking his head underneath the beating sun, he adds, "I wasn't the first one. I may be the last one. You can't live anybody else's dream, and 57 years is enough." Tuttle, now 63, left the farm to attend Tufts University in the 1970s. But after graduation, he grew tired of his job as a salesman and says he was drawn by the feeling of "self-reliance, satisfaction at the end of the day" that farming gave him. "The variety of our lives here, as on every farm, is incredible," Tuttle says. "Being out in the fresh air, being tired when I get home, that's all good stuff," he says, sighing, and adding that those also are the worst parts about farming. Tasking work . Tuttle wakes up at 4:30 a.m. and says he works anywhere from 12 to 17 hours a day. He says he's learned to "survive on less sleep" but admits he longs to spend more time with his children. As he trudges along rows of tall, ripe corn, Tuttle recalls what his grandfather once told him. "He said be careful where you set foot on this farm because that footprint is going to be there for the rest of time, you're gonna leave your mark on this farm," he says. But in the end, Tuttle admits he "had to take the weight of our ancestors off the decision, they're not here to advise us. I think probably most of them died with their boots on." Tuttle says his health has been compromised by decades of farm work; he ruptured his Achilles tendon a couple of years ago and he says he suffers from neck and back problems. Standing next to her big brother Will, Lucy Tuttle confesses she has mixed feelings about selling the family's land and says it will be a tough adjustment. "I feel a great sense of continuity here with the family," she says, "To be standing there hoeing or weeding and to think about my father doing that or my grandfather doing that ... is just an incredible feeling." But Will Tuttle says his two grown sons were not interested in running the family business and he couldn't make the decision for his two younger sons to carry on the tradition. "I believe it would be unfair of me to say ... one of my kids is going to run it. I can't decide for them," he said. Customers and condolences . On a tour of Tuttle's Red Barn store, youngest sister Becky Tuttle, 58, points to a heap of fresh radishes, proudly noting "everything that says 'our own' on the sign was grown here." The air-conditioned shop resembles a modern grocery store, but with freshly picked vegetables of all sizes and colors as the main attraction. Abundant varieties of squash and lettuce are lined up on shelves near a mound of the Tuttles' "famous" sweet corn. Fresh cucumbers are added as soon as they are scrubbed clean. Many regulars recognize Becky Tuttle and they ask about her family. They also offer their condolences. Kathleen McShera, a lifelong customer who shops at the store at least once a week, says the thought of the Tuttles selling their farm brings tears to her eyes. "I've got goosebumps. It's really sad. It's a tradition. It's been here forever," she says. In 1956, when the Tuttles' parents started the farm stand store, Becky Tuttle says, "This place became a destination for people, where they could come and know they were getting fresh, homegrown, quality vegetables." Since then, she says, "Supermarkets have caught up to speed" on offering fresh vegetables and gourmet products and they have competitive prices that are hard to match. "Places like Walmart and even the supermarkets with their buying power, to buy the products we sell, they are able to buy them cheaper at wholesale than we can," she says. That results in retail prices that are often cheaper than the Tuttles' wholesale prices. Fresh ideas, fresh backs . Although the Tuttles will not be working on the farm once it's sold, the three older Tuttle siblings remain hopeful about the land's future. As a first step of the selling process, the family went through a conservancy to ensure the farm would be worked and viable for generations to come. "I believe it's not psychologically possible for the three of us to sell this farm for residential or commercial development," Will Tuttle says. "The fact that it's going to remain open in someone's gentle care, in some form or another is very comforting to me." Though they've booked showings already, Tuttle says the farm's sale is not imminent. "This is not going to sell in one day," he says. "Its may take a long time to sell it. We're prepared to battle it out until that time and spend what's left of our energy, so I can keep this place as vital as it can be." Becky Tuttle adds that for now, "The business still will remain open, and the corn is still as fresh and sweet as ever." What's needed to make the farm thrive for years to come? Tuttle says the farm needs a "fresh approach, fresh ideas and fresh legs and backs to do that." | The oldest family farm in U.S. -- the Tuttle farm in New Hampshire -- is up for sale .
After working for up to 17 hours a day, Will Tuttle says he has health problems .
His grown sons aren't interested in farming and he won't pressure 2 younger sons .
Conservancy will ensure farm would be worked and viable for generations to come. |
4,022 | 0b94113887ed48b0ec4a84b0b36c1dc05acdeb96 | This is the Ugandan aircraft that Africa hopes will thrust it right into the space race. Constructed amidst the rubble of his mother's backyard, ambitious Chris NSamba believes the African Skyhawk will lead to his continent launching its first astronaut into orbit. The African Space Research Programme founder has been helped by 600 volunteers in partially achieving the first stage of his dream - the creation of the plane that will penetrate the edge of space by flying at 80,000ft. Scroll down for video... Ambitious: This is the Ugandan aircraft, the Africa Skyhawk, that Chris NSamba hopes will thrust the country right into the space race . The African Space Research Programme founder has been helped by 600 volunteers . And once the African Skyhawk has had a successful test flight sometime next year, the 28-year-old plans to turn his hand to building the continent's first space shuttle. He firmly believes it will launch in the next 'four to six years'. But given the condition of his project at the moment, he might be advised to buy a gigantic rubber band to help it on its way. The former astronomy student said: 'It isn't about money, it isn't about competition or pride. 'The mission is about advancement in space technology as a continent and what we can contribute towards that growth. 'We are trying to have Africa participate in the contribution of knowledge into mankind's destiny.' The cynical may question how NSamba can launch his own space programme without any money, and be entirely reliant on donations. Is he mad? Chris NSamba's mother, Sarah Lugwama, watches as the African Skyhawk is constructed in her backyard . The former astronomy student said: 'We are trying to have Africa participate in the contribution of knowledge into mankind's destiny.' Chris Nsamba leans against the wing of the Skyhawk. He is confident the Skyhawk's test flight will take place next year, and he will have a fully fledged space shuttle in operation in 'four to six years'. They may also ask how it can be achieved, seeing as Uganda has no history of space exploration and he is teaching the aspiring astronauts himself. But he said he was confident the Skyhawk's test flight would take place next year, and he would have a fully fledged space shuttle in operation in 'four to six years'. He added: 'This is not a one-man mission. We work jointly to achieve goals. 'I have trained my crew (in) advanced astronomy. They are very good at astronomy in regards to calculations and identifications of various space objects.' And when asked how he plans to simulate zero gravity for training, he said it would be 'easy'. He added: 'I've got a jet engine on order so I'm planning to build a tunnel, put the engine at one end and when I throw a guy in he'll float in a similar way to how he would in space.' NSamba, who admits that 'one time or another every successful scientists has been called a madman' has been toiling away in his mother's backyard, in the Kampala suburb of Ntinda, for three years. But despite the challenges he faces, he said was confident his space shuttle, dubbed The Dynacraft, would be ready sooner rather than later. And he cited funding from foreigners, and the promise of cash from the Ugandan government, as markers to their ongoing success. He said: 'It will first operate in Earth's lower orbit then advance with time. We might not have money in our system but we do get our homework done.' | African Skyhawk will soar to 80,000ft sometime in 2012 .
Plans for space shuttle launch in next four years . |
80,363 | e3d464d5adaf1e6410d613a2bbd4127272320c99 | By . Kerry Mcdermott . PUBLISHED: . 10:37 EST, 10 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:27 EST, 10 August 2013 . Chaotic violence that erupted during loyalist riots in Belfast left 56 police officers injured and parts of the city centre wrecked. Protestors who ran amok through the streets and attacked police with missiles including scaffolding poles and paving stones ripped up from a main shopping area are guilty of 'mindless anarchy', Northern Ireland's Chief Constable said. The region's top officer Matt Baggott said the militant protestors had scarred Belfast's reputation. Scroll down for video . Clash: In total 56 police officers were injured when violence erupted in Belfast as protestors attempted to block the route of the Anti-Internment League parade . Missiles: Demonstrators threw scaffolding poles, paint bombs and bottles at police officers trying to restore order . The . region's top officer issued a challenge to politicians and community . leaders to act like 'statesmen' in the wake of the disorder and . unequivocally condemn those responsible. The violence erupted in the . Royal Avenue area, a usually busy commercial street close to City Hall, . as more than a thousand loyalist demonstrators gathered to protest at . the republican rally to mark the introduction of internment without . trial in Northern Ireland during the Troubles. Four officers required . hospital treatment. Police, who deployed water canon and 26 plastic . baton rounds in a bid to quell the unrest, have arrested seven people so . far, and warned that many more will follow. Attacks: A police officer is carried on a stretcher after being injured during the rioting . 'Mindless anarchy': Violence erupted in the Royal Avenue area as more than a thousand loyalist demonstrators gathered to protest at a republican rally in Belfast . Violence: Demonstrators hurled missiles including scaffolding poles and paving stones ripped up from a shopping area at officers in the city . 'I know that 99%, if not more, of the population will stand with me in utterly condemning those who scarred the reputation of our beautiful city last night,' said Mr Baggott. 'Those people had no intention of peaceful protest, they lack self respect and they lack dignity.' Mr Baggott, who warned that the 'prisons would be bulging' once the police had identified and arrested those responsible, added: 'The only voices we should hear now are those unequivocally condemning the violence and supporting fully the actions of the police and the rule of law and I don't want to hear any excuses for the disgraceful scenes that took place last night, because quite frankly there aren't any.' 'Disgraceful scenes': Police officers deployed water cannon in a bid to quell the unrest on the streets of Belfast . Protest: A loyalist is arrested by riot police as violence erupted in the city centre on Friday night . The trouble broke out as the city hosts thousands of international visitors attending the World Police and Fire Games. Northern Ireland Secretary Theresa Villiers condemned the rioters. 'Last night's violence and attacks on police officers were shameful,' she said today. 'After success for Northern Ireland this summer as host to both the G8 Summit (in Co Fermanagh in June) and the World Police and Fire Games, disorder on the streets is a hugely regrettable step backwards.' Last night's violence spread from the Royal Avenue area as the Anti-Internment League parade, which was sanctioned by the Parades Commission adjudication body, approached from north Belfast. Some direct clashes with loyalists and republicans ensued close to the entrance to the unionist Shankill Road, and police said they came under attack from both sides, but officers have stressed that loyalist protesters were responsible for the vast majority of the violence. Aftermath: A man walks past a burned out shop today as the clean-up operation continued on the Shankill Road after a night of chaos . Sheer thuggery: A burned out van stands in the Shankill Road today in the aftermath of serious disturbance in Belfast last night . A number of parked vehicles were set on fire in the nearby North Street area and police have revealed that some rioters took to the roof tops of city buildings and houses and tried to set them on fire. The parade did not pass down Royal Avenue as intended. After a significant delay, it did finally proceed along the outskirts of the city centre and onward to west Belfast. Police stressed that the parade was not re-routed by their officers with organisers voluntarily deciding to take another road. The Parades Commission had authorised the parade and permitted six notified protests, including one by the Orange Order. Assistant Chief Constable George Hamilton heavily criticised those who arranged the demonstrations.'There was absolutely no organisation, no co-ordination, no leadership around any of those protests,' he said. The officer said it was clear that a large number of the protesters arrived with 'violent intent'. 'There was no attempt whatsoever, that we could see, of any organised or coordinated protest activity in keeping with that which had been notified to the parades commission.' Mr Hamilton characterised the violence in Royal Avenue as 'very severe'. 'There were all sorts of weapons and equipment being used against police, including scaffolding, masonry, people were pulling up the paving stones from the busiest shopping precinct in Belfast and were destroying our city and taking that masonry and throwing it at our police officers who put their lives on the line to try and keep people safe. 'There was nothing lawful about this protest, there was nothing peaceful about it - it was sheer thuggery.' The assistant chief constable said officers had almost cleared Royal Avenue of protesters when the parade organisers decided to take another route. 'It's perhaps understandable that they would do that,' he said. 'But the police did not re-route the parade away from Royal Avenue and in fact we were within minutes of having Royal Avenue cleared to allow the parade go through.' Mr Hamilton added: 'We would call on anyone with any influence to stand up and be counted, actually to show some leadership around what is a difficult set of circumstances for us, but we actually need those with influence within the community to use that for good, so that we don't resort to the violent scenes that we saw last night.' | Protestors pelted police with scaffolding poles and stones in Royal Avenue .
More than 1,000 loyalist demonstrators descended on republican rally .
Northern Ireland's Chief Constable has condemned the violence . |
150,162 | 4e24db1f23de0a795d6ef15d9d020fbbc7f2a242 | 'It absolutely must be defended': Tine Fey responded to the shooting at French satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo today, saying it's a reminder of the importance of defending free speech . Funny woman Tina Fey turned serious this morning when she was asked to weigh in on the tragic shooting at French satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo. The attack, which has left a dozen dead so far, is believed to have been carried out by Muslim radicals furious with the publication's parody of the prophet Mohammed. 'Obviously, that news is terrible and tragic and upsetting,' Fey said Wednesday morning, at a television press event in Pasadena, California. 'You look at that and you look at the controversy surrounding The Interview, it makes you think about how important free speech is and how it absolutely must be defended. '[We] cannot back down on free speech in any way. We all have to stand firm on the issue of free speech,' she said. Both Charlie Hebdo's cartoons and The Interview have been criticized for their base humor, which some have argued is not worth the controversy they sparked. But Fey says it doesn't matter the quality or type of humor, all speech should be defended no matter what. 'We’re Americans,and even if it’s dumb jokes in The Interview, we have the right to make them,' Fey said. A reporter went on to ask Fey if she had ever felt pressure to censor herself when dealing with controversial topics. She responded that she often dealt with such topics anchoring Weekend Update on Saturday Night Live. 'But even that was a different era, because in a social media era where you make a joke on American TV and it can go worldwide, it’s a different environment,' Fey detailed. During her time writing and starring on long-running comedy 30 Rock, Fey also parodied the North Korean regime by casting actress Margaret Cho to play Kim Jong-il, current DPRK leader Kim Jong-un's father and ppredecessor . Fey spoke on the first day of the Television Critics Association winter tour in order to promote her new series on Netflix, Unbreakable Kimmie Schmidt. Senseless: Parisians march in the streets following the horrifying shooting at the offices of satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo on Wednesday . Fey (left) attended the press conference Wednesday to promote her new Netflix series Unbreakable Kimmie Schmidt. The series starts Ellie Kemper (right), best known for her part on The Office . | The former 30 Rock star was asked to respond to the shooting in Paris this morning, while attending a press conference for her new Netflix show . |
180,387 | 7585e8e74f8eb7f8ef814f3988b19ddb892890e7 | Government planned to sell port to help pay off record debts . Transport minister Simon Burns cited public opposition in his decision to keep it . Dame Vera Lynn supported campaign to keep Dover 'forever England' By . Hayley Dixon . PUBLISHED: . 07:26 EST, 21 December 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 09:09 EST, 21 December 2012 . For generations Dover has stood as an indomitable symbol of Britain's . freedom and independence. And now residents have proved they have earned the reputation after forcing the government to remove the port from their list of assets up for grabs. The town, with its white cliffs, port and sprawling castle stood at the very edge of the nation's frontier with the Continent but it was nearly flogged to our former age-old enemy - France. Scroll down for video . Dover, Europe's busiest port, was going to be sold off to help pay of the Government's record debt levels but was saved after massive local opposition . But now Dame Vera Lynn can relax as in the face of public opposition the port has been saved from the prospect of falling under French control as the government scrapped plans to sell it off to the highest bidder – rumoured to be the local authority of Calais. Transport minister Simon Burns withdrew Dover from the table of trophy assets - including the UK's air traffic control . system, the student loans company and the Tote bookmaker - which are being sold to help cut the country's record £1.1trillion debt . Europe's busiest passenger port Dover handles 13 million passengers and 5milion vehicles, transporting £50billion worth of goods year on year. In a ministerial statement accompanying the decision Mr Burn's said he could not guarantee 'sufficient level of enduring community participation in the port' if it was sold off. Transport minister Simon Burns announced that the port was no longer on the table and referred to petitions and campaigns in his letter of explanation . He wrote in a letter explaining his decision: 'The secretary of state also noted the strength of local opposition to the proposed sale and that this might create uncertainty about a sale at this time. 'It is uncertain what price would be achieved in the current climate.' The leading bidder was rumoured to be Nord-pas-de-Calais regional council, which also owns Calais. The French port is just 21 miles away across the Channel . The Dover People’s Port Trust Ltd, which demonstrates the local opposition, has some 1,200 paid up members and 97.5 per cent of them opposed the sell off plans. They campaigned for "Keeping the nation's gateway forever England" and had a string of celebrity supporters including Dame Vera . Mr Burns also recognised that more than 770 people and organisations had made formal representations and more than 6,500 had signed three separate petitions against the sale when making his decision. The letter said key concerns were 'security, immigration and its historic significance'. In order to avoid the port falling into foreign hands some of the local residents had clubbed together to propose buying it for the community. Dover's Conservative MP, Charlie Elphicke, told the Guardian that the town's "magnificent victory" saving the port for the nation was the "best Christmas present the people of Dover could have". He said: "The port of Dover is the gateway to our nation and should be forever England as much as Stonehenge and Buckingham Palace. The whole community is absolutely delighted that it won't end up owned by the French or the Chinese or anyone else. "Think of the port and the white cliffs and you think of freedom and victory over tyranny." The chalk cliffs at Dover are treasured natural landmarks and were once named in a poll as Britain's fifth greatest natural wonder . But the chief executive of the Port of Dover, Bob Goldfield, warned that the would have brought a £10million winfall to the local community and brought in millions more over the next few years. The Dover Harbour Board, which own the port, had applied for privitisation in 2010 and it is said the cash was needed to invest in infrastructure. When Gordon Brown first announced proposals to sell the port he was greeted with an angry reaction and accused of having "no sense of the history" but it was believed it could have netted up to £ 350million for the Treasury. Since the decision was announced the local residents have fought long and hard to keep the port in the hands of the British. The sale to the French company . would have marked a dramatic reversal in the fortunes of the two towns. Calais was captured by the English under Edward III in 1347, and the . occupation lasted for more than two centuries. From 1536, the town sent . MPs to Parliament but the French recaptured the town in 1558. Other major ports were sold off under the 1991 Ports Act, but Dover was . retained because of uncertainty over how construction of the Channel . Tunnel might affect it. | Government planned to sell port to help pay off record debts .
Transport minister Simon Burns cited public opposition in his decision to keep it .
Dame Vera Lynn supported campaign to keep Dover 'forever England' |
173,978 | 6d22fee8edf4430b7dab79421f647d0beeea7686 | (CNN) -- As winter storms continue to pound the United States, causing billions in damage and millions to be without electricity service, customers inevitably ask why doesn't somebody -- my utility, my regulator, my government -- do something about this? Why aren't power lines, for example, buried safely underground? It's not that simple. The short answer? It is expensive, requires the buy-in of multiple entities that serve the community and doesn't always solve the problem. Because it costs so much to bury power lines, it's crucial that the expense yields value for electricity consumers, who will ultimately bear all the costs associated with providing electricity service. It's easy to see why a community under siege by intense weather would want to put the lines underground: Underground lines are protected from wind-related damage as well as ice and snow. But they also may be more vulnerable to damage from water intrusion. They're popular, too, in densely populated areas and new subdivisions where utility poles and a plethora of overhead lines would cause a kind of overhead congestion. As of 2012, about 39% of the customers in the United States reported having underground electricity service. But going underground can be difficult: In the electric utility business in the United States, it is nearly impossible for the utility, regulator or government to address the question of changing how power is delivered without the sign-on and cooperation of the others. Frum: Why we should bury the power lines . Let's start with the utility company: It is closest to the challenge, managing the electricity system, but cannot spend the money to change the power line configuration without the assurance from its regulator, whether it is the state public service commission or a city commission, that it will recover its investment through the rates it charges to its customers. For its part, the regulator cannot directly fix the power lines but still must ensure that any money the utility spends provides value for consumers. Finally, the government, or the other voice for the consumers, must determine whether consumers are willing to pay for such a change. (The state of Florida's reaction in the wake of the 2004-2005 hurricane seasons provides a model for this type of cooperative effort, as utilities, regulators and government officials meet every year to address the efficacy of Florida's storm hardening efforts, including the potential undergrounding of power lines.) Then there are two major challenges associated with relocating power lines underground: . First, it is very expensive. Burying power lines costs roughly $1 million per mile, but the geography or population density of the service area can halve this cost or triple it. In the wake of a statewide ice storm in December 2002, the North Carolina Utilities Commission and the electric utilities explored the feasibility of burying the state's distribution lines underground and concluded that the project would take 25 years and increase electricity rates by 125%. The project was never begun; the price increase was not seen as reasonable for the consumers. A 2010 study on undergrounding a portion of the electricity system in the District of Columbia for the Public Service Commission found that costs would increase rapidly as utilities tried to underground more of their service territory. The study concluded that a $1.1 billion (in 2006 dollars) investment could improve the reliability for 65% of the customers in the utility's service territory, but an additional $4.7 billion would be required to affect the remaining 35% of customers in outlying areas. That is, over 80% of the costs for the project would be required to benefit roughly one third of the customers. Burying the lines raises another potential problem: reduced accessibility of the lines, making it more difficult to repair the system. So while customers may see fewer outages as a result of undergrounding, the duration of those outages may increase. Electric users ask: Why not put power lines underground? Other benefits of undergrounding, such as aesthetic ones, may be more difficult to quantify, but studies have shown that consumers are sometimes willing to pay more for underground service. Second, burying power lines does not always protect them from storm damage. It may mitigate damage from wind events such as flying debris, falling trees and collected ice and snow, but so can trimming trees, replacing wood poles with steel, concrete or composite ones, or reinforcing poles with guy wires. These strategies may be nearly as effective in reducing storm damage and may cost less. Finally, undergrounding power lines only shifts the risk of damage from wind events to the risk of damage from corrosive storm surge and flooding that may result from rainfall or melting ice and snow. Areas with greater vulnerability to storm surge and flooding will confront systems that are less reliable -- and at greater cost - as a result of undergrounding. In short, whether a community should go underground with its power lines is a question to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the utility, its regulator and the government. Otherwise, consumers will end up spending more for their electricity service and getting less. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Ted Kury. | Theodore Kury: When bad weather hits, people ask: Why not bury the power lines?
He says it appeals as way to prevent power outages, but difficulties include cost .
He says utility, regulators, government all must buy-in -- above-ground often easier .
Kury: Buried lines subject to flood damage and are hard to repair . |
3,886 | 0b330e583d945d6db1e0dfaef689023bdf181c18 | (CNN) -- William Adolfo Cortez -- the man suspected in four homicides in Panama, including the death of one American -- and his wife were arrested in Nicaragua on Monday, a Costa Rican official told CNN. The arrest was the conclusion of an international manhunt for the couple, whose nationality remained unconfirmed by authorities. Cortez and his wife, Jane, were on the run since the body of Cher Hughes, a native of suburban St. Louis, Missouri, was found last week on his property in Panama. The couple fled Panama to the north, traversed through Costa Rica, and were caught as they crossed the San Juan River, which acts as the boundary between Nicaragua and Costa Rica, Costa Rican Vice Minister of Public Security Jorge Chavarria said. Cortez and his wife boarded a boat and then threw the boat's driver overboard, commandeering the vessel for themselves, Chavarria said. The Nicaraguan army stopped them as they tried to enter the country. The couple was in Nicaraguan custody and was transported to a facility known as El Castillo, the vice minister said. The pair face charges of stealing a boat, but an international murder warrant out for the couple is expected to result in extradition to Panama, Chavarria said. Cortez could be American or Dutch, according to local reports, but his true nation of origin remained unconfirmed. Hughes, who was in her early 50s, was found in a shallow grave. A second body -- which has not yet been officially identified -- was found near Hughes. Panama police said they believed that Cortez's motive was to take his alleged victims' property. Hughes had lived in St. Petersburg, Florida, where she owned a neon sign business, before moving to Panama. CNN's Mariano Castillo contributed to this report. | William Cortez is wanted on murder charges in Panama .
He and his wife were caught on the border between Nicaragua and Costa Rica .
Cortez commandeered a boat to try to make it to Nicaragua .
The Nicaraguan army made the arrest . |
267,710 | e6b49fa3ce3712074986f611d09be2d53ea45cf5 | By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 08:21 EST, 9 April 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:23 EST, 9 April 2013 . A Minneapolis-St. Paul airport worker is charged with stealing more than $84,000 worth of shotguns, revolvers, and other weapons and items from passengers' luggage. David Vang, 23, faces 11 felony counts, including 10 counts of theft of a firearm after video surveillance linked him to the theft of more than 700 items stolen from passengers with connecting flights. Authorities say Vang of St. Paul scoured through the checked luggage behind closed doors, taking whatever valuables he could find including a crossbow, jewelry, iPads, laptops, cell phones and other electronics. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . Theft: David Vang, 23, and his wife Vue Xiong, 21, face felony charges after video surveillance linked him to the theft of more than 700 stolen items including firearms from airport luggage . Footage captured Vang then taking the items to an unsecured employee parking ramp where his wife, Vue Xiong, 21, was waiting in a vehicle, the criminal complaint said. His wife was charged with one count of felony theft. A search of his apartment found several boxes containing 716 items in all, the complaint said. Pat Hogan, spokesman for the Metropolitan Airports Commission, said Monday that Vang was employed by a Texas firm to maintain the belt on which checked baggage traveled. Hogan said authorities learned in September that weapons were being stolen, so they set up surveillance cameras. Caught: Video cameras set up allegedly caught Vang, seen here, going through luggage at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport before filling up his backpack . Vang was arrested in October and is no longer working at the airport, Hogan said. According to the complaint, Vang initially claimed the weapons and other items fell out of luggage as it came down the line, but later admitted to stealing, saying he had been doing it since last summer. 'When asked why he did it, Defendant Vang stated that he just wanted the items,' the complaint said. Hogan said authorities realized there was an issue when they started getting reports that weapons were disappearing during passengers' connecting flights. Firearms must be packed in separate cases and scanned as a separate piece of luggage, so authorities can determine when a case containing a weapon is removed from one airplane and placed on another. Strategy: Vang allegedly went through the checked luggage of passengers with connecting flights at the airport, pictured, before looting them and taking them to his wife waiting outside . 'In this case, only connecting bags were being pilfered,' Hogan said. 'Weapons were scanned as coming into (Minneapolis-St. Paul) but not scanned as going into the aircraft, so that's what alerted us that there was an issue here.' Hogan said thefts from luggage are rare, but the airport recommends travelers place valuables such as jewelry in their carry-on luggage. Weapons, however, must be checked. 'Fortunately, we don't deal with this kind of situation very often,' Hogan said. 'Once we found out about it, we were able to track him down and bring him to justice.' Online court records do not list an attorney for Vang. A working home phone number for Vang was not available on Monday. He will be making his first court appearance April 25 in Hennepin County. | David Vang, 23, accused of looting checked luggage of connecting flights before taking items to his wife waiting outside .
Among 716 items found stolen were 10 firearms, a crossbow, jewelry, iPads, laptops, cell phones and other electronics . |
251,728 | d1d20ea54927ec89e11d14502b8ce84f461748fe | By . Steph Cockroft . It seems fans of the cult film Zulu were not the only ones fascinated by the renowned Battle of Rorke's Drift. Queen Victoria, who was on the throne when the battle took place, was so enthralled by the celebrated battle that she ordered Lieutenant John Chard, the commanding officer, to give her a written report of what happened. But, just like in the battle itself, Lieutenant Chard went above and beyond his call of duty - and decided to draw the queen five sketches showing a blow-by-blow account of how the battle unfolded. Lieutenant John Chard - who later became a major - drew sketches to show Queen Victoria a step-by-step account of the Defence of Rorke's Drift, which took place in January 1879 . Lieutenant John Chard, who was awarded a Victoria Cross after the Anglo-Zulu War, for his part in defending Rorke's Drift . Lieutenant Chard - who later became a major - also drew one landscape sketch, complete with a key, to give Queen Victoria the full picture of what happened when Zulu Warriors surrounded a British compound. Now, those sketches have put been on display for the first time, as part of the Treasures From . the Royal Archives at Windsor Castle. In the . drawings, the lieutenant tells Victoria that the sketches are drawn . 'chiefly from memory and therefore might not be quite correct'. But he said it would give a 'fairly accurate impression' of the relative positions. In the sketches, Chard uses red dots to show where the British soldiers moved and black dots to represent the Zulus. He even includes gardens and bushes in the diagram, while showing in detail how the hospital - which, along with a supply depot, formed part of Rorke's Drift - was destroyed by fire. He uses the caption: 'Darkness - completely surrounded.' The battle, which became the subject of the movie Zulu in 1964, saw 150 soldiers fight off up to 4,000 Zulu Warriors. The film, which is still celebrated more . 50 years after it was made, saw Stanley Baker play Lieutenant John . Chard, while Michael Caine played his right-hand man, Lieutenant Goville Bromhead. The success of the hand-to-hand combat came just hours after the Zulus achieved a resounding victory over the British troops during their first engagement at Isandlwana. But this time, when some of the Zulu forces assaulted the British field station at Rorke's Drift, British soldiers repelled the attack, despite being heavily outnumbered. The Zulus eventually retreated after 351 of the men died and 500 were wounded. Rorke's Drift was the base for B Company, 2nd Battallion, 24th Regiment of Foot. Lieutenant John Chard, played in the 1964 Zulu film by Stanley Baker, pictured above, brought the battle to life through his drawings . The sketches from the battle, which was later document through the Zulu film, pictured above, are now on display for the first time at Windsor Castle . Lieutenant Chard, the commander of No 5 Field Company, Royal Engineers, found himself in charge of the men and, together with Lieutenant Bromhead, led the men into battle. He was later awarded the Victoria Cross, praised for saving the lives of all but 17 of his men. He was one of an incredible 11 men given the award. The Anglo-Zulu war began in the late 1870s, when the Zulu kingdom presented an obstacle to British imperial ambitions in southern Africa. Acting largely on his own initiative, the British High Commissioner presented the Zulu king Cetshwayo with an ultimatum with which he could not comply, subsequently sending a force to invade Zululand. The exhibition, which includes dozens of other historic letters and pictures, opens today. | Lieutenant John Chard drew sketches to document Battle of Rorke's Drift .
Queen Victoria asked for account of the battle from the commanding officer .
Lt Chard, played by Stanley Baker in the 1964 Zulu film, drew five sketches .
Battle of Rorke's Drift saw outnumbered British soldiers repel Zulus' attack . |
227,866 | b312da5955c8fcdfa335585d3323475aeb2b713b | (CNN) -- A Georgia man accused of trying to extort Paula Deen by threatening to divulge "true and damning" information about the embattled celebrity chef appeared in federal court Tuesday and pleaded not guilty. Thomas George Paculis, 62, was arrested on a criminal complaint by FBI agents in Ithaca, New York, earlier this month. The former Augusta and Savannah, Georgia, resident appeared before a U.S. magistrate judge in Savannah, Georgia, Tuesday morning for arraignment. The federal charges were filed on June 24 in the U.S. Southern District of Georgia. Paculis entered a plea of not guilty and was placed under $10,000 bond, according to court documents from the hearing. A federal judge in New York released Paculis on bond a day after his arrest, said Stephen Emmett with the FBI's Atlanta office. Savannah is where Deen built her business and brand into what many consider the folksy face of Southern cooking. But she's been on her heels after admitting, in a deposition related to a lawsuit brought by a former employee, that she's used the "N-word" in the past. Former employee Lisa Jackson alleged that Deen and her brother Bubba Hier committed numerous acts of violence, discrimination and racism that resulted in the end of her five-year employment at The Lady and Sons, and Uncle Bubba's Oyster House, two Savannah restaurants run by Deen and her family. Deen's accuser: 'This has never been about the N-word' In the media firestorm that followed, Deen lost at least nine lucrative endorsements and her Food Network cooking show, while the publication of her eagerly anticipated cookbook was canceled. According to a criminal complaint, Paculis interjected himself on June 24, five days after details of Deen's deposition became public. On that day, he sent an e-mail to Deen's lawyer vowing that he was "about to go public" with information about the chef's use of the "N-word" at Lady and Sons, according to a copy of the e-mail cited in the criminal complaint. "The statements are true and damning enough that the case for Jackson will be won on it's merit alone," Paculis wrote, according to the FBI. "As always ... there is a price for such confirmation. "You can contact me here if you feel it is necessary," he said, referring to his e-mail address, the criminal complaint states. "Or I can go public and we will see what happens then." Greg Hodges, Deen's lawyer, exchanged e-mails with Paculis and the two talked over the phone two days later, according to the FBI. It was then that Paculis allegedly asked for $250,000 "net" -- or total, with taxes having already been paid -- in exchange for not talking, the criminal complaint states. The two conversed a second time by phone June 27 when, "at the direction of the FBI," Hodges negotiated the hush money payment down to $200,000. The next day, Deen told FBI agents that she didn't recognize Paculis's name or face, based on photographs. In tearful interview, Paula Deen slams 'horrible lies' Hodges declined comment on the alleged extortion arrest. Nancy Aldridge, who was married to Paculis for four months around 1986, told CNN that he once had his own restaurant in Savannah though she hasn't had much direct contact with him in recent years. Meanwhile, according to the FBI's criminal complaint, Paculis had also reached out to Jackson's lawyer. In fact, the agency alleges that the 62-year-old first reached out to Matt Billips by e-mail and phone on the same day -- June 24 -- that he contacted Deen's lawyer. Billips said his staff conducted its own investigation of Paculis. Paculis asked Jackson's lawyer how much he'd pay for derogatory information about Deen, the complaint claims. "I have pushed the opposing firm to (give) me an amount of money, in cash to never been heard of again and to never utter Paula Deen's name in public or private ever again," Paculis allegedly wrote, according to an e-mail to Billips excerpted in the FBI complaint. "Now the burning question is," he purportedly added, "do you want in." CNN's Elwyn Lopez contributed to this report. | Thomas George Paculis, 62, is accused of allegedly trying to extort Paula Deen .
Paculis allegedly asked Deen's lawyer for $250,000 not to go public with information .
An ex-wife of Paculis says he once had a restaurant in Savannah .
Deen has been scrambling after testifying she had used "N-word" |
210,461 | 9c922cf9e85f041d84c260155698e30122951e80 | Washington (CNN) -- On the day he shot President Ronald Reagan, 25-year-old John Hinckley Jr. left in his hotel room a letter addressed to young actress Jodie Foster, with whom he was infatuated. The letter began: . "Dear Jodie. There is a definite possibility I will be killed in my attempt to get Reagan." See letters Hinckley sent to Foster . But on March 30, 1981, Hinckley survived. His gun empty after he fired six shots at the president in less than two seconds, Hinckley was tackled by police and Secret Service agents. He was rushed away and all but disappeared into custody for the past three decades. On Wednesday, a federal judge will begin a week and half of hearings on whether Hinckley eventually should be released from the mental hospital where he has been a patient since his 1982 trial ended in a jury verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity. Doctors at St. Elizabeth Hospital, a federal mental facility in Washington, have petitioned the court for approval to grant Hinckley convalescent leave if all goes well in series of extended visits to his mother's home. Hinckley is now 56, his hair turning gray. In the last court hearing two years ago, U.S. District Judge Paul Friedman acknowledged hospital doctors' testimony that his mental problems were in remission. The court has steadily granted Hinckley greater freedoms over the years. The government's response for the hearing describes Hinckley as "a man capable of great violence" and argues that there are still concerns "that this violence may be repeated." His mother, JoAnn Hinckley, a widow who is now 85 but in good health, lives in a gated resort development near the James River in historic Williamsburg, Virginia. Hinckley has been allowed several visits in recent years. A next-door neighbor, signing as T. Richardson, wrote a month ago in a letter to the editor of the local newspaper, The Virginia Gazette, that upon moving in during the 1980s, Mrs. Hinckley phoned to say that "They would never bring John to Williamsburg." Yet, the letter writer said, Hinckley had been allowed to roam the streets alone on long walks during those recent visits. Hinckley's proposed release, the writer concluded, "is not terribly reassuring to me living next door." Much of the eight-day hearing will involve contrasting testimony from psychiatrists on either side, as did Hinckley's trial. Hinckley did not testify then, and whether he will do so this time remains in dispute. The U.S. attorney's office has told the judge that if Hinckley does take the stand at the hearing, it wants the right to question him. Hinckley's lawyer, Barry S. Levine, replied that Hinckley will testify only if the judge does not allow any cross-examination. The hospital motion for Hinckley's eventual release was filed under seal, unavailable to the public. However, in answering that, the government said the motion proposes a series of eight new visits of 17 to 24 days each to Hinckley's mother's home. After that, the government said, the hospital wants "the sole discretion to place Hinckley on convalescent leave" and to do so "without any further review by this court." No immediate decision is expected during the court hearing. In the past, the judge has taken some time before issuing a written ruling. Hinckley came within an inch of killing Reagan: That's how close the last bullet came to penetrating the president's heart. The president lost half his blood supply as his left lung was flooded. Had the Secret Service not gotten Reagan to a hospital within minutes, doctors said, he might well have died. Watch agent show where bullets struck the presidential limo . Hinckley wounded a police officer, a Secret Service agent and Press Secretary James Brady before his sixth and final shot ricocheted off the presidential limousine and struck Reagan beneath his left armpit as agents shoved him into the back seat of the vehicle. Brady, shot in the head, survived against the odds but was so severely injured he was never able to return to his White House duties. Hinckley had left numerous letters and notes for Foster, a freshman at Yale University, after seeing her in a breakthrough role as a child prostitute in the movie "Taxi Driver." One of his last notes, shoved under her dorm door a few weeks before he shot Reagan, echoed a line from that movie: "Just wait. I'll rescue you soon." The day after the shooting, Foster said she did not even know who Hinckley was. | Letter by mother's neighbor expresses unease about possible release .
After John Hinckley shot Reagan, he was found not guilty by reason of insanity .
Hearing may determine whether to eventually free him from mental hospital .
Hinckley doctors: He's in remission; federal doctors: he's "capable of great violence" |
179,726 | 74b577b7ee1d48ac81e7e10b0d29f6e4e1fadbba | By . Daily Mail Reporters . PUBLISHED: . 11:24 EST, 12 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 16:23 EST, 13 May 2013 . The brothers of the Cleveland kidnapping suspect Ariel Castro spoke of how they had no idea why they were being arrested for keeping the girls in captivity for nearly a decade. They also revealed that they saw the daughter that Ariel fathered with Amanda Berry during her captivity, saying that on two different occasions they saw Ariel bring the young girl to fast food restaurants- one time at McDonald's and another at Burger King. Each time, he said that the girl was his girlfriend's daughter. Onil Castro was in the car with his brother Ariel when police pulled them over in a McDonalds parking lot and his first thought was that Ariel had run a red light. Pedro Castro was woken up at his home by police, and he thought that they were arresting him for an outstanding open container warrant. They were both far off base, as they only learned when they arrived at the police station and were questioned separately about the three young women that Ariel had secretly kept in his house. Scroll down for video . Speaking out: Onil Castro, pictured center, and Pedro Castro, right, sat down with CNN's Martin Savidge, left, in their first interview since they were accused of being involved in the Cleveland kidnappings case . Released: The brothers were accused of being involved in the abductions, but have since been released after authorities concluded they had nothing to do with it . WATCH MORE AT CNN.COM. Pedro said that once at the station, he asked what he was being charged with and a police officer wrote the word 'kidnapping' down on a piece of paper and handed it to him. 'I didn't have my reading glasses, I looked and I said, "Oh, open containers." She said 2No, read it again." And I said "Oh! Kidnapping! What's this? Kidnapping? I'm thinking kidnapping. Who did I kidnap?"' he told CNN. Pedro was similarly confused, and the only one to have a clue of what was going on was Ariel, who remains behind bars after his bail was set at $8million. 'He goes "Onil, I'm sorry. You didn't know nothing about this, Onil. I'm sorry, Onil." And that was it. And then that's when I broke down on my way over there. I said, "What did my brother do? What did he do?"' Onil told CNN. Set up: Onil Castro (seen at his arrest at left and during the interview at right) was with his brother Ariel when police pulled them over in a McDonalds parking lot, and he said that maybe Ariel wanted to be caught . 'When he walked past me, he goes, "Onil, you're never going to see me again. I love you bro." And that was it. And he put his fist up for a bump.' They consider their brother to be a 'monster' and said that one of the worst moments for them came when they realized that Gina DeJesus was one of the kidnapping victims since they are friends with her father, Felix. 'I knew him for a long time and when I found out that Arial had Gina, I just broke down its just shocking. Ariel, we know this guy for a long time and you got his daughter and you go round like nothing, you even went to the vigils, you had posters, you give his mama a hug and you got his daughters captive?' Pedro said in disbelief in the interview that aired Monday morning. Pedro told of how one time he saw Ariel bring a young girl to the local McDonalds- the girl that is now known to be Jocelyn who the 52-year-old fathered with his kidnapping victim Amanda Berry. 'I seen Ariel with a little girl at McDonald's and I asked him who's that and he said "This is a girlfriend's of mine,"' Pedro Castro told CNN. In the dark: Pedro Castro described how on the few occasions they went to their brother Ariel's house, he would keep them in the kitchen or outside on the steps . When he saw the . same young girl at Burger King with Ariel on a different occasion, he . asked where the mother was but Ariel just said she was busy. The brothers said . that they had no inkling about the years of abuse that went on at their . brother's house because they never had a thorough tour of his home on . Seymour Avenue. On . the rare occasions that they did visit his home, they stayed in the . kitchen and could not see into the other areas because Ariel had put up . curtains blocking the other rooms. He explained that it was a energy . saving technique. 'The . reason why we would go in the kitchen, because he had alcohol. And he . would take me in the kitchen, give me a shot,' Pedro said. Signs: In a photograph taken in 2001, suspect Ariel Castro stands with a former girlfriend in front of a padlocked door, which led to the basement, at his home on Seymore Avenue, Cleveland . 'House of horrors': Anthony Castro and his father stand in front of the door to the basement in 2001 . Other ways that he would keep his guests from suspecting any criminal activity was to constantly have a radio or TV on so that it would drown out any background noise, and they would never spend much time actually indoors, opting to eat out on the steps instead. The brothers, who were arrested along with Ariel Castro but later released due to a lack of evidence, say that since their release from prison, they have been faced with online death threats, a break-in at one of their homes, and vandalism. Busted: Ariel Castro is facing kidnapping and rape charges, and his brothers say they would have turned him in sooner had they known . When asked by CNN reporter Martin Savidge if the public would always suspect they had a role in the kidnappings, they answered 'yes' in unison. Onil Castro said: 'The people out there who know me, they know that Onil Castro is not that person, has nothing to do with that - would never even think of something like that. I was a very liked person [before the arrest], never had any enemies. '[There is] no . reason for anybody to think that I would ever do something like that. It . was a shock to all my friends. They couldn’t believe it.' Pedro Castro . added: 'I couldn’t never think of doing anything like that. If I knew . that my brother was doing this, in a minute I would have called the . cops; cause that ain’t right. But yeah, it’s going to haunt me down. Cause people are going to think Pedro had something to do with this and . pedro don’t have anything to do this. They said that even though Castro is their brother, they would have had no choice but to turn him in - had they known. 'If I knew, I would have reported it, brother or no brother.' The brothers spoke amid new revelations of odd behavior at the Castro house in the days prior to the women's escape. Mark Sanchez, who lives in the neighborhood and shares Castro's affinity for the bass guitar, told The Daily Telegraph that he was at Castro's home on May 2 when he heard weird thudding sounds coming from the floor above. Mr Sanchez also saw a little girl at one point whom he claimed he had never seen before. Castro explained that the child was his granddaughter. Free: A neighbor got a picture of Amanda Berry as she escaped the home last Monday with her six-year-old daughter, who the kidnapper's brothers previously saw with Ariel on trips to McDonalds . Freed: Amanda Berry (center), Gina DeJesus . (left) and Michelle Knight (right) were held captive for ten years after . being abducting from the street between 2002 and 2004 . Escape route: The women escaped through the front door of Castro's home after a neighbor helped them . Days later, he was horrified to learn about what had been going on in the house for more than a decade. Mr Sanchez told the paper that he would always have to arrange plans to hang out with Castro in advance - because he never answered the door if he showed up without letting Castro know first. He told the Telegraph: 'I have to say the guy was a demon but he played it real cool. It was the first time that I heard any noise.' Ariel Castro is suspected of holding the women captive in his home for a decade. Authorities say he kidnapped all three women - Michelle Knight, Amanda Berry and Gina DeJesus, raped them and fathered a child with one. The women were found May 6 after one escaped and called 911. The brothers were initially taken into custody but released Thursday after investigators said there was no evidence against them. View the full report online HERE . | Onil and Pedro Castro spoke out for the first time since they were arrested alongside their brother Ariel for the kidnapping of three young women .
Said they had no clue that their brother had the girls for about a decade .
Pedro saw Ariel bring a young girl to McDonald's and Burger King, not knowing that it was the girl he fathered with Amanda Berry .
Brothers had no clue why they were being arrested- Onil thought he ran a red light and Pedro thought it was for an open container warrant . |
214,095 | a14489c74d889ee5b9a6a8672bcc52ae21d7a9d8 | Sixteen under par for a fourth major and third win in as many tournaments. Rory McIlroy’s world is dominated by numbers, from his incredible scores on the course to his £6.7million mansion and £300,000 car. Here, Sportsmail takes a look at the figures that make up the successes and rare failures in the life of the world’s best golfer. VIDEO Scroll down to watch US PGA Championship highlights . Won: Rory McIlroy's world is dominated by numbers and Sportsmail looks at the life of the world's best golfer . VIDEO PGA Championship highlights . EARLY CAREER . 15 – Played in his first European Tour event, the Daily Telegraph Dunlop Masters, aged only 15. Darren Clarke secured him an invitation after McIlroy, an amateur, won the West of Ireland Championships. At the time, Clarke said: ‘Rory has a special talent and I have no reservations about seeking an invitation for him to play. I am sure he will enjoy and benefit from the experience.’ McIlroy shot rounds of 82 and 81 and missed the cut. Early on: McIlroy, pictured as an amateur golfer in 2007, was said to have 'a special talent' by Darren Clark . 18 – McIlroy turned professional aged 18 in September 2007 having won the silver medal for low amateur at The Open earlier in the summer. He played his first event as a professional at the British Masters and finished 42nd, earning £12,063. By comparison, Tiger Woods turned professional aged 20, immediately signed endorsements worth £40m and hit a hole-in-one on his pro debut at the Greater Milwaukee Open, albeit only finishing 60th in the process. Up and up: McIlroy turned professional in September 2007 after winning silver for low amateur at The Open . Leg to stand on: McIlroy's first event as a professional was at the British Masters and he earned £12,063 . £220,000 – the amount McIlroy earned in prize money in his first month as a professional. 114 – After McIlroy’s first year on the European Tour he was ranked 114 in the world. He broke into the top 100 on October 19, 2008 and entered the top 50 in November of that year. He has not left it since. BREAKTHROUGH ERA . 19 – McIlroy won his first professional event at the Dubai Desert Classic on February 1, 2009, aged 19. The win took him to 16th in the world ranking and earned him £258,000. That year he scored his first top-10 major finish, at the 2009 US Open . Never forget your first! McIlroy celebrates on the 18th green after winning the Dubai Desert Classic in 2009 . Congrats: McIlroy and Clarke, both of Northern Ireland, meet after the former won the Dubai Desert Classic . Proud: McIlroy poses with his parents, Rosie and Gerry, after he won first professional event at the age of 19 . 4 – McIlroy’s lead going into the final round of the 2011 Masters. His fourth-round 80 is the worst score in history by any professional golfer leading after the third round of the Masters. He finished 15th. 70 – 70 days later, McIlroy won his first major at the US Open, setting a US Open record low score of 16 under par. It made McIlroy the youngest US Open winner since Bobby Jones in 1923 and took him to fourth in the world. Regular sight: McIlroy won the 2011 US Open Championship after sinking his final putt in mid June . Sealed with a kiss: McIlroy set a US Open record low score of 16 under par with the victory in Maryland . Record: It made McIlroy the youngest US Open winner since Bobby Jones in 1923 and took him to World No 4 . GIRLFRIENDS . 2 – Rory McIlroy is known to have had two girlfriends over the course of his career. He broke up with childhood sweetheart Holly Sweeney in 2011 and started dating tennis player Caroline Wozniacki. £120,000 - McIlroy proposed with a diamond ring on New Year’s Eve but quite famously broke off his engagement to Wozniacki in the days after sending out wedding invitations. Rumours have since linked him to several women, though last week he said his upturn in form was down to being single and dedicating more time to golf. Old: McIlroy and Caroline Wozniacki (pictured) were proposed with a diamond ring but he famously broke it off . RECORD MAKER . 3 – McIlroy’s win at the 2014 PGA Championship makes the 25-year-old the third youngest golfer to win four major championships, after Tiger Woods (24 years and seven months) and Jack Nicklaus (25 years, two months and 21 days). McIlroy was 25 years, three months and six days. For historical conext, Walter Hagen and Gary Player won their fourth majors at 29. 20 – McIlroy is now tied 20th on the list of all-time major winners with four. McIlroy’s hat-trick of Open, WGC and PGA Championship means he is the first player since Tiger Woods in 2007-08 to win three straight PGA events, though he would need to win his next two to match Woods’s incredible five-title streak. Watch your back, Tiger: McIlroy is after any and every record set by Woods, long considered the world's best . 3 – McIlroy now ranks as the third most successful European golfer in major championship history. Only Seve Ballesteros (five) and Sir Nick Faldo (six) have won more. 14 - his number of titles, with five wins on each of the European and PGA Tours, as well as his four majors. 1 – McIlroy became world No 1 for the first time on March 4, 2012. McIlroy has held the world No 1 position for a total of 41 weeks. Woods has held the top spot for a record 683 weeks. Top: McIlroy became world No 1 for the first time in 2012 and has held the position for a total of 41 weeks so far . MONEY . £31,000 – the amount fetched at auction for the golf ball with which McIlroy won the 2014 Open at Hoylake. £14,500,000 – the amount McIlroy is believed to have earned between June 2013 and June 2014, with £12m coming from endorsements and £2.5m in prize money. That takes in one of the most disappointing spells in McIlroy’s career after he switched his equipment manufacturer to Nike. However, he has emerged as the world’s best player and that long-term Nike deal is rumoured to be worth £10m a year. In 2013, he was the 35th highest earning sportsmen, but with 2014 prize money of roughly £4.2m he will shoot up the next list. His major sponsors include Nike, Bank of Santander, Bose and Omega. £28m – The Sunday Times Rich List estimated McIlroy’s fortune to be worth £28m . £6.7m – the value of McIlroy’s Florida mansion, which has six bedrooms and nine bathrooms. He has also been pictured driving a white £300,000 Lamborghini Aventador . Rich list: McIlroy's deals with the likes of Nike mean he rakes in the money and is reportedly worth £28million . | Rory McIlroy has won three tournaments in a row including two majors after winning USPGA Championship with final round of 68 at Valhalla .
Northern Irishman has four majors - all by the age of 25 - and says: 'Never in my wildest dream did I imagine I'd have a summer like this'
Sportsmail looks at the world's best golfer and dissects his numbers . |
240,338 | c3217b57d8cc8a4315ca2924d5a702e97f1103d7 | Islamabad, Pakistan (CNN) -- Former Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf pledged in a speech Sunday to return to his country later this month, despite word from authorities that he will be arrested when he does so. "I am coming, Pakistan," Musharraf told thousands of supporters via video link in the southern city of Karachi. "Attempts have been made to scare me, but I am not afraid of anything." He pledged to return between January 27 and 30. When he does, Pakistani officials said, Musharraf will be arrested in connection with the 2007 assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. Chaudhry Zulfiqar Ali, a special public prosecutor in the assassination case, said a Rawalpindi court has already issued an arrest warrant for Musharraf. "They are bound to execute the order unless a higher court sets aside the orders," Ali said, adding that Musharraf is accused of conspiring in the assassination. Musharraf's attorney, Chaudry Faisal, said the threat of arrest is politically motivated and has no legal bearing. The warrant is being challenged in court, the attorney said. He described the claim that Musharraf could be arrested at any time upon return as "absurd." The former president said Sunday that he will return even at the risk of his life. Speaking to CNN after addressing the crowd in Karachi, Musharraf said he had declined to provide a specific date because of security concerns. He spoke about the possibility of arrest, but said he expects he will be fine, so long as "the judiciary plays its just role, and there are no interruptions." "There is a vacuum in Pakistan of trustworthy leaders, which is being filled by others. To exploit this vacuum, I have to be back now," Musharraf said. He described his support as scattered, and said he needs to build it again from the ground up. "This is a do-or-die moment for me and my party. I need to muster all the support I can," he said. Musharraf, who resigned in 2008, is expected to fly into Pakistan from the United Arab Emirates later this month, accompanied by up to 500 supporters, said Jawed Siddiqi, spokesman for the former president's All Pakistan Muslim League party. "President Musharraf told me that although the possibility of arrest is there -- there is no way of knowing what will happen, and how dangerous the situation is, until one jumps into the situation head first," he said. Elections are set to take place in Pakistan next year; Musharraf intends to run. On Sunday, he told Pakistanis that other politicians have failed leading the country, but "I succeeded 100%." "When I took charge of the country, it was surrounded in huge problems," he said. "... Today, we have to decide whether we need change or we need the same faces." Terrorism in Pakistan, he said, "is at its peak. We are alone in the world." He said he restored Pakistan's economic development, increased its global standing and strengthened the armed forces. Musharraf resigned in 2008 as the country's ruling coalition began taking steps to impeach him. He was succeeded by Asif Zardari, Bhutto's widower. In 2010, the United Nations released a report that said Musharraf's government had failed to protect Bhutto before her 2007 assassination. Musharraf has rejected such accusations, saying that Bhutto had police protection and took unnecessary risks. Bhutto's assassination turned public opinion strongly against Musharraf in 2008 and led to his resignation and self-exile in London. In 2010, Musharraf said the timing of his return to Pakistan would depend on the environment there. "My going back is dependent, certainly, on an environment to be created in Pakistan and also, I would say, with certainty, that whenever the signs of the next election comes up, I will be there in Pakistan," he said. CNN's Aliza Kassim, Shaan Khan and journalist Wajahat S. Khan contributed to this report. | NEW: Musharraf declines to give a specific return date because of security concerns .
NEW: "This is a do-or-die moment for me and my party," he tells CNN .
Musharraf plans to return to his home country sometime between January 27 and 30 .
Pakistani official: The former president will be promptly arrested upon his return . |
177,085 | 713c0c01b4da057f21c02c5afb27e072637b211d | Stewart Downing thought occasions like this had passed him by and you might say it passed him by again. First start for two-and-a-half years and then hooked after 45 minutes. Every silver lining comes with its own cloud. It just goes to emphasise how fleeting chances can be in international sport and how vital it is to grasp your opportunity when it comes and make the most of it. Take a bow Nathaniel Clyne, who has proved precisely how it can be done. Only four days into his England career and Clyne, who extinguished the threat of winger Ikechi Anya on Tuesday night, looks like he will take some moving from the right back spot. VIDEO Scroll down to see what Downing had to say on his surprise England recall . Stewart Downing made his first start for England in two-and-a-half years and was hooked after 45 minutes . Across the back four on the left, Luke Shaw offered a reminder of his talent and a warning to Leighton Baines and Kieran Gibbs, who replaced him after an hour. Shaw is strong and quick and more composed on the ball in the heat of Celtic Park than a teenager has any right to be. He will surely improve as a defender as he matures, just as Jack Wilshere has rapidly developed as a deep-lying playmaker, because he has the necessary tools and a good football brain. Wilshere has been outstanding in the last four England games, dictating tempo, organising those around him, passing the ball, biting in the tackle and controlling his instinct to dribble the dangerous areas. Nathaniel Clyne extinguished the threat of Ikechi Anya on Tuesday night in his second England game . He also produced the pass of the match for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to score the opener. It was an England goal made in Arsenal, with a little help from Southampton. Eight of Roy Hodgson’s 22-man squad have strong connections to Saints. But where the Ox flourished, with a reminder of his energy and his goal threat, Downing’s chance came and went. He did nothing wrong. He held his shape on the left of a tight midfield trio, with Wilshere and James Milner, and patrolled the areas he was expected to. But the ability to produce something special under intense scrutiny is what international football is about, especially if your role carries creative responsibilities. Luke Shaw's hour on the pitch issued a warning to left back rivals Leighton Baines and Kieran Gibbs . Adam Lallana came on and immediately the team played with a happier rhythm, with more balance. Downing is entitled to counter that the hardest part of Tuesday night’s game was the opening half-hour, where England had to be disciplined. He played his part in helping England take the lead and take a grip. They were two up within minutes of Lallana coming on, and he was able to play with more freedom. He may not have Downing’s determination to track back to the edges of his own penalty box simply to deny the opponents space, but Scotland were a wilting force by then. Spaces were starting to open up and Lallana’s fluency does not help Downing’s chances of adding to his 35 caps. At the age of 30, will he be back? Who knows who will be fit and in form by the time these players meet again for international duty in March. Downing did nothing wrong but lacked the creativity to produce something special when it matters . Downing’s confidence has been built at West Ham. The test is to return to Upton Park and impress again. According to Opta’s statistics, he has created 34 chances, more than any other English player in the Premier League this season. Modern coaches love to have tactical flexibility at their disposal and his ability to play in different roles is an advantage. It has helped him into tournament squads in the past, but it will only help again if his form holds. Too often in this match his touch let him down. It might have been nerves playing their part. He found it hard to get on the ball as Scotland disrupted England during an opening passage of play which was still reverberating from an extraordinary pre-match atmosphere featuring flames and bagpipes (together at last, although perhaps not in a way the English were hoping). Downing falls over a ducking Steven Naismith during an unimpressive performance for the West Ham star . Amid the din, Downing’s first touch was inconsistent. Poor control encouraged Shaun Maloney to snap into an early tackle which had England’s No 8 hopping around in pain. Having aggravated an injury during the warm-up at Wembley on Saturday, he did not want another setback. Perhaps this was a factor in his subdued performance. Others were able to thrive in the atmosphere and Hodgson will be delighted with the work-rate and willingness to match Scotland’s aggression and desire. Fraser Forster, another enjoying the rare treat of an international start, might have liked more activity to prove what he can do but it is a fine line for a goalkeeper . Forster was alert to save from Russell Martin, when he needed to be, but could not protect his clean sheet. As for Downing, he will hope there is another chance to come next year. If there isn’t, this was a night for all England players to savour: an England win in Glasgow. | England defeated Scotland 3-1 at Celtic Park on Tuesday night .
Stewart Downing made first England start for two and a half years .
The West Ham midfielder was replaced by Adam Lallana at half-time . |
63,480 | b444aff3f5b2cd4e6a75cf348043082acc43dc67 | By . Joel Christie . PUBLISHED: . 16:22 EST, 28 September 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 16:25 EST, 28 September 2013 . A long-haul truck driver and practicing Sikh was allegedly called a 'depraved terrorist' by police and threatened with jail by a judge for wearing a 'rag' on his head after being pulled over in Mississippi. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has filed two complaints of harassment over the case, in which Jagjeet Singh, 49, was arrested for refusing to turn over his kirpan, a three-inch ceremonial dagger that all Sikh men are required to carry as part of their faith. The blade is typically sewn into the waistband and rarely, if ever, brandished in public. Truck driver Jagjeet Singh, a devotee of the Sikh faith, was arrested in Mississippi for refusing to surrender his Kirpan (right), which local police claimed was an illegal weapon and allegedly called him a 'terrorist'. Sikh men are expected to carry a Kirpan - a small sword usually worn on the waistband - at all times, much as a Christian might wear a crucifix as a necklace. Singh was driving from California to Texas on January 16 to pick up a chicken delivery when he was stopped by two officers from the Department of Transportation (DOT) for driving with a flat tyre in Pike County, Miss. According to the ACLU complaint - which is claiming a 'disgraceful' infringement of religious rights and has been lodged with Mississippi officials - the officers 'laughed' and 'mocked' Singh when he attempted to explain his kirpan was not illegal and actually a sacred religious article. 'One officer declared that all Sikhs are depraved and ''terrorists'',' the ACLU said in a letter to the DOT. Indian Sikh devotees gather next to the illuminated Sikhism's holiest shrine, the Golden Temple in Amritsar on September 1, 2013. A recent survey found that most Americans wrongly believed Sikhism is a sect of Islam. Sikhism is a progressive religion founded in the Punjab region (eastern Pakistan and northern India) over 500 years ago by Nanak. There are approximately 30 million followers worldwide. Sikh's devote themselves to a remembrance of God at all times, honest living and equality of mankind. They denounce superstition. They follow the teachings of 10 Gurus enshrined in the Sikh Holy Book. It is largely considered one of the only religions to give equal rights to men and women, with both sexes allowed to take part in Sikh religious ceremonies. The founder Nanak (1469 - 1538) was born into a Hindu family, but said he received a call from God establishing him as a guru, making the assertion: 'There is no Muslim, and there is no Hindu.' Singh was taken into custody for refusing to obey a command and was forced to return to Mississippi on March 26 for a court hearing. At the hearing, Judge Aubrey Rimes of the Pike County Justice Court ejected Singh from the courtroom because of the turban he was wearing, stating that he would not be allowed to re-enter unless he removed "that rag" from his head. However Singh's faith mandates the covering and he believes that to unwrap it in public would be both sacrilegious and shameful. The ACLU have since made their complaints public to condemn Singh's terrible treatment. The case follows the attack of Columbia professor Dr. Prabhjot Singh, who was set upon by a hate mob in Harlem last weekend. Dr Prabhjot Singh, a Harlem practitioner, Columbia professor and practicing Sikh, was attacked by a gang in Harlem last Saturday night in what police believe was a hate crime. Dr Singh was repeatedly punched in the head and torso by a gang that approached him on bikes about 8:15 p.m. as he walked along 110th Street near Lenox Avenue in upper Manhattan. Speaking about the attack, Dr Singh who was called 'Osama' and 'terrorist', said the incident was a reminder of the need for a 'national conversation' about what it means to be American. 'Ultimately, to simply punish the individuals who've acted out on hate crimes is insufficient," he told HuffPost Live. 'More broadly, we need to have a real national conversation around who looks American, what does it mean to be American.' Earlier this month a Stanford University survey found even though almost all turban-wearers in America are Sikh, about 70 per cent of Americans misidentify them as Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus or members of the Shinto faith. The survey also found that half of Americans believe Sikhism is an arm of Islam. When contacted by the ABC for comment, a DOT spokesman said the most recent Singh case was a 'personal matter'. 'We just got the letter. We're looking into the allegations,' the spokesman, Jared Ravencraft, said. The U.S. Department of Justice confirmed they were investigating the Pike County nondiscrimination policy. | Routine delivery ends in humiliation and disgrace .
County judge threatens prison for wearing a turban .
Case sparks Department of Justice investigation . |
160,186 | 5b0da0d740cf6804fb21f7cb85e59eca0ed4887c | By . Kieran Corcoran . A policeman has been caught sipping a drink as he drives his patrol car through London - days after a young driver was given a 'ridiculous' £100 fine for a very similar transgression. The officer was pictured driving through London today holding a takeaway soft drink at the wheel of his Metropolitan Police car. A passer-by took the photograph this afternoon on Fitzroy Street in London as the car was moving slowly through traffic. Thirsty? The officer with the Metropolitan Police was pictured by a passer-by taking a drink as he drove down Fitzroy Street in central London . Scene: The car was photographed moving slowly down the street while its driver took a drink . It comes less than a week after 22-year-old Sophie Vaughan found herself confronted with four officers and a police van after taking a single slurp of her raspberry Slush Puppie. She was fined £100 and given three points on her licence after she was spotted drinking while stationary in South London traffic. Miss Vaughan, from Wallington, South London, said: ‘It’s so petty and ridiculous. It was only a tiny sip. I wasn’t even moving. ‘I’m outraged. And talk about overkill – to have four police officers dealing with such a petty thing is a joke.’ However, after being confronted with their own officer's conduct, the Metropolitan Police have said that Miss Vaughan was actually given the penalty for after driving without her seatbelt while using both hands to eat the Slush Puppie. A spokesman said: 'A female driver was seen driving without a seatbelt and without holding on to the steering wheel. 'She was holding a 'Slush Puppie' in one hand and a straw in the other, using the straw to spoon the ice into her mouth. 'She drove away but subsequently stopped the car in Pound Street and was spoken to by officers before being issued with a fixed penalty notice.' Penalty: Last week 22-year-old Sophie Vaughan, pictured, was given a £100 penalty for sipping a Slush Puppie while stuck in traffic . Driving away: The vehicle can be seen moving further down the street through traffic . And although she was met by the full force of the law for her breach, the pictured officer appears to have taken a different view of the law. Sat Dhoot, 31, an IT engineer who works nearby, saw the officer after reading about Miss Vaughan's fine. He told MailOnline: 'Only a few moments ago I read an article about a driver who was fined £100 by police for taking a single slurp of slush at the wheel of her car. 'To my amazement, I saw this only moments later. It's not OK for us - but they can.' The . law does not specify whether eating or drinking while driving is . illegal, and whether drivers have committed by doing so depends on how . it affected their driving. According . to advice from the RAC, drinking a soft drink while on the road is only . an offence 'if you present a significant danger' and if the police . think 'you are not in proper control of the vehicle'. A . study from Leeds University has shown that drivers consuming drinks at . the wheel went 22 per cent more slowly than average, but were also 18 . per cent more likely to show erratic lane control. Guidelines . published by the CPS do not mention food or drink in relation to . driving without due care and attention - but they mention that any act . which causes a driver to be 'avoidably distracted' could constitute an . offence. This is in . contrast to more specific laws which exist around other potential . distractions such as mobile phones - the use of which attracts an . instant penalty. | The officer was driving in central London when he was seen with the drink .
The Metropolitan Police patrol car was moving slowly through traffic .
Last week Sophie Vaughan, 22, was fined £100 while drinking a Slush Puppie .
She had been stationary in traffic but was confronted by four officers .
Man who took the photo told MailOnline: 'It's not OK for us - but they can' |
233,610 | ba6f852595fed36ae5f67ab43670ea1db0c8e514 | Adulterers are texting their way into trouble over Christmas - with divorce lawyers saying the festive season is one of the most dangerous times for getting caught out. Family get togethers mean cheating partners often rely on their mobile phones to stay in contact with their lovers. But that increases the risk of illicit relationships being found out through phones left carelessly lying around, or partners becoming suspicious of texts or calls. Found out: amily get togethers mean cheating partners often rely on their mobile phones to stay in contact with their lovers (file picture) Ayesha Vardag, named the UK’s top divorce lawyer by the Law Society, said ‘Christmas text message bustings’ have become increasingly common due to constant use of mobile phones - even during family occasions. ‘People are suddenly holed up with their family but those in any other relationship are very conscious of being shut out. ‘They are going off up the garden to try to make calls and sending messages and then the phone ends up lying around the house.’ Miss Vardag, who has acted in splits including the £100 million divorce of German heiress Katrin Radmacher, added that she first noticed the growth of ‘text message bustings’ at Christmas last year. Patricia Robinson, a senior associate in family law at Manchester-based Pannone Solicitors, said: ‘If someone is texting a lover during Christmas lunch with their partner and family then it could be said that they are asking for trouble. ‘In my experience, though, it is unusual for evidence of adultery to suddenly come to light. Christmas increases the risk of illicit relationships being found out through phones left carelessly lying around (file picture) ‘It is more often the case that a husband or wife will become suspicious and then investigate further by checking their partner’s mobile phone and social media pages. ‘It is true that the notion something may not be right does sometimes originate as a result of Christmas parties, particularly those involving work colleagues.’ Philanderers’ problems are compounded by alcohol and heightened emotions, according to Voula Grand, a psychologist and novelist whose book Honor’s Shadow charts marital betrayal. ‘It is a perfect storm – everybody has had a few drinks, everybody is talking more, you haven’t got time alone when you could communicate and the temptation is too great,’ she said. ‘You have got his intense family time but you have got two families in effect. ‘You can imagine the pull – you would want to make some contact over that period and I think people would take greater risks. ‘The other side of it is that families are home and all together, you haven’t got that time apart where it is easier for you to make contact with your lover.’ | Family get togethers mean cheating partners often rely on mobile phones .
Relationships found out through phones left lying around .
Philanderers’ problems are compounded by alcohol and emotions . |
146,619 | 499c51a58aa422203477d2a00cde8202db3701e1 | By . Simon Jones . West Ham have made a £3million offer for Nice left back Timothee Kolodziejczak. Sportsmail revealed interest from West Ham and Southampton last month but Sam Allardyce has taken the initiative with an opening bid. The 22-year-old is regarded as one of the best young defenders in France and was wanted by Manchester United while a teenager at Lens, but turned them down as he preferred to join Lyon instead. Target: West Ham have tabled a £3million offer for Nice left back Timothee Kolodziejczak . Opening gambit: Sam Allardyce has made the first move for the 22-year-old . He failed to settle though and transferred to Nice where he has started to earn rave reviews once again. Kolodziejcak, commonly known as Kolo, is a France U20 international but also qualifies for Poland through his father. Dual nationality: Kolodziejczak is a France U20s international but also qualifies for Poland through his father . | Hammers have made £3m bid for highly-rated Nice left back .
Southampton also interested in the 22-year-old .
Has played for France U20 but also qualifies for Poland . |
122,479 | 2a4dc5a33bdf21e3b1082e7c578b567e0028050c | Harry Kane enjoyed an unforgettable start to what could be a memorable 2015 for the Tottenham striker. The 21-year-old has quickly established himself as a fans' favourite at his boyhood club, where he further endeared himself with a match-winning display on New Year's Day. Kane scored twice and provided a further two assists as Spurs annihilated London rivals Chelsea 5-3, producing a complete performance which makes an international call-up seem par for the course. Tottenham striker Harry Kane (left) unleashes a powerful effort at goal to make it 1-1 against Chelsea . Kane celebrates after scoring the first of his two goals against Jose Mourinho's side on New Year's Day . It was talk the England Under 21s forward downplayed afterwards, preferring to focus on what was a match those connected to Spurs will not forget in a hurry. 'The fans were brilliant,' Kane said. 'They'll be buzzing going into the new year after beating one of their London rivals, who we have struggled against in recent years. 'I am delighted for the fans and delighted for the club as well. Hopefully we will take this into the games ahead.' Few could have predicted the manner of Tottenham's win, especially when Diego Costa put the league leaders ahead after 18 minutes. At that point it looked like Spurs would suffer yet another bad result against Chelsea, only for Kane to draw level in superb style - a 25-yard strike he called his best goal to date given 'the moment and the situation we were in'. England Under 21 striker Kane guides his shot past Thibaut Courtois for his second goal of the game . Nacer Chadli gives Kane a hug after the former Arsenal youngster had given Spurs a 4-1 lead against Chelsea . 'I am delighted to score against one of the best teams in the world,' Kane, whose side take on Burnley in the FA Cup on Monday, told Spurs TV. 'To get us back in the game and win the way we did is obviously a great night for us. 'We stayed in the game after they scored and whenever I get the ball on the edge of the box I always look to shoot. 'Thankfully it went in and then we really pushed on, built a bit of momentum. 'We finished the game and obviously got five goals against a really good defence.' Kane, pictured tussling with Chelsea's Nemanja Matic, has impressed supporters with his effort and desire . | Harry Kane scored twice as Tottenham beat Chelsea 5-3 on Thursday .
Striker believes supporters will be buzzing after win over league leaders .
Kane believes his first strike was best goal of his career so far . |
106,552 | 156c523d52fe0ae64c51a073aea20f56b40f588c | By . Ap . PUBLISHED: . 22:56 EST, 15 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 00:59 EST, 16 August 2013 . The National Security Agency has broken privacy rules or overstepped its legal authority thousands of times each year since Congress granted the agency broad new powers in 2008, The Washington Post reported Thursday. Most of the infractions involve unauthorized surveillance of Americans or foreign intelligence targets in the United States, both of which are restricted by law and executive order. They range from significant violations of law to typographical errors that resulted in unintended interception of U.S. emails and telephone calls, the Post said, citing an internal audit and other top-secret documents provided it earlier this summer from NSA leaker Edward Snowden, a former systems analyst with the agency. Busted: The National Security Agency broke privacy rules thousands of times since it was granted broad new powers in 2008 . In one of the documents, agency . personnel are instructed to remove details and substitute more generic . language in reports to the Justice Department and the Office of the . Director of National Intelligence. The Post cited a 2008 example of the interception of a 'large number' of calls placed from Washington when a programming error confused U.S. area code 202 for 20, the international dialing code for Egypt, according to a 'quality assurance' review that was not distributed to the NSA's oversight staff. In what the Post said appeared to be one of the most serious violations, the NSA diverted large volumes of international data passing through fiber-optic cables in the United States into a repository where the material could be stored temporarily for processing and selection. The operation collected and commingled U.S. and foreign emails, the Post said, citing a top-secret internal NSA newsletter. NSA lawyers told the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court that the agency could not practicably filter out the communications of Americans. In October 2011, months after the program got underway, the court ruled that the collection effort was unconstitutional. The New York Times reported that 1,904 of the incidents appeared to be 'roamers' - foreign nationals whose cell phones were being wiretapped without warrants who then came to the U.S. According to the audit, a sharp increase in such incidents in a single quarter could have resulted from Chinese citizens traveling to the U.S. to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year with family. 'We're a human-run agency operating in a complex environment with a number of different regulatory regimes, so at times we find ourselves on the wrong side of the line,' a senior NSA official said in an interview, speaking to the newspaper with White House permission on the condition of anonymity. He added, 'You can look at it as a percentage of our total activity that occurs each day. You look at a number in absolute terms that looks big, and when you look at it in relative terms, it looks a little different.' The NSA audit obtained by the Post dated May 2012, counted 2,776 incidents in the preceding 12 months of unauthorized collection, storage, access to or distribution of legally protected communications. Most were unintended. Many involved failures of due diligence or violations of standard operating procedure. The most serious incidents included a violation of a court order and unauthorized use of data about more than 3,000 Americans and green-card holders. The Leak: Edward Snowden gave documents outlining the infractions to the Washington Post earlier this summer . The documents included a level of detail and analysis that is not routinely shared with Congress or the special court that oversees surveillance, the paper said. In one of the documents, agency personnel are instructed to remove details and substitute more generic language in reports to the Justice Department and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. In an emailed statement to The Associated Press late Thursday, John DeLong, NSA's director of compliance, said, 'We want people to report if they have made a mistake or even if they believe that an NSA activity is not consistent with the rules. 'NSA, like other regulated organizations, also has a "hotline" for people to report - and no adverse action or reprisal can be taken for the simple act of reporting. 'We take each report seriously, investigate the matter, address the issue, constantly look for trends and address them as well - all as a part of NSA's internal oversight and compliance efforts. What's more, we keep our overseers informed through both immediate reporting and periodic reporting.' Director of National Intelligence James Clapper claimed during a Senate hearing that the NSA doesn't collect information on innocent Americans . President Barack Obama recently pledged to provide more transparency and oversight in the NSA surveillance programs. The issue has divided the U.S. Congress, with some representatives among them New York Republican Peter King, insisting that data collection is critical to national security, while others criticizing the intelligence agency for going to far in their efforts. Some members of the Senate Intelligence Committee, including Democrat Ron Wyden of Oregon, have been trying for some time to get the NSA to give some kind of accounting of how much data it collects "incidentally" on Americans through various electronic dragnets. The Obama administration has strongly resisted such disclosures. | The violations range from significant violations of .
law to typographical errors that resulted in unintended interception of .
U.S. emails and telephone calls .
In 2008, the NSA intercepted a 'large number' of calls placed from Washington when a .
programming error confused U.S. area code 202 for 20, the international .
dialing code for Egypt .
The most serious incidents included a .
violation of a court order and unauthorized use of data about more than .
3,000 Americans and green-card holders . |
167,273 | 6454a4248cd2e7fdecaacf8e55d84dd743e18f26 | WASHINGTON (CNN) -- When you see people at the office using such Internet sites as Facebook and MySpace, you might suspect those workers are slacking off. A social-networking site for the world of spying officially launches for the U.S. intelligence community this month. But that's not the case at the CIA, the FBI and the National Security Agency, where bosses are encouraging their staff members to use a new social-networking site designed for the super-secret world of spying. "It's every bit Facebook and YouTube for spies, but it's much, much more," said Michael Wertheimer, assistant deputy director of national intelligence for analysis. The program is called A-Space, and it's a social-networking site for analysts within the 16 U.S. intelligence agencies. Instead of posting thoughts about the new Avenged Sevenfold album or Jessica Alba movie, CIA analysts could use A-Space to share information and opinion about al Qaeda movements in the Middle East or Russian naval maneuvers in the Black Sea. The new A-Space site has been undergoing testing for months and launches officially for the nation's entire intelligence community September 22. "It's a place where not only spies can meet but share data they've never been able to share before," Wertheimer said. "This is going to give them for the first time a chance to think out loud, think in public amongst their peers, under the protection of an A-Space umbrella." Wertheimer demonstrated the program to CNN to show how analysts will use it to collaborate. "One perfect example is if Osama bin Laden comes out with a new video. How is that video obtained? Where are the very sensitive secret sources we may have to put into a context that's not apparent to the rest of the world?" Wertheimer asked. "In the past, whoever captured that video or captured information about the video kept it in-house. It's highly classified, because it has so very short a shelf life. That information is considered critical to our understanding." The goal of A-Space, like intelligence analysis in general, is to protect the United States by assessing all the information available to the spy agencies. Missing crucial data can have enormous implications, such as an FBI agent who sent an e-mail before September 11, 2001, warning of people learning to fly airplanes but not learning to land them. "There was the question, 'Was that a dot that failed to connect?' Well, that person did this via e-mail," Wertheimer said. "A-Space is the kind of place where you can log that observation and know that your fellow analysts can see that." Even though Facebook, MySpace and other social-networking sites that inspired A-Space are predominantly the domain of young people, there apparently is no such generational divide on A-Space. "We have found that participation in A-Space crosses every conceivable age line and experience line. People are excited, no matter what age group," Wertheimer said. Of course, the material on A-Space is highly classified, so it won't be available for the public. Only intelligence personnel with the proper security clearance, and a reason to be examining particular information, can access the site. The creators of A-Space do not want it to be used by some future double agent such as Jonathan Pollard or Robert Hanssen to steal America's 21st-century secrets. "We're building [a] mechanism to alert that behavior. We call that, for lack of a better term, the MasterCard, where someone is using their credit card in a way they've never used it before, and it alerts so that maybe that credit card has been stolen," Wertheimer said. "Same thing here. We're going to actually do patterns on the way people use A-Space." Yes, analysts can collect friends on A-Space the way people can on Facebook. But nobody outside the intelligence community will ever know -- because they're secret. CNN's Barbara Starr and Pam Benson contributed to this report. | U.S. intelligence agencies are urging staffers to use a new social-networking site .
Called A-Space, it's for analysts within the nation's 16 intelligence agencies .
Analysts can use A-Space to share information about al Qaeda, other issues .
Only intelligence personnel with the proper security clearance can access the site . |
92,829 | 0366425ffa19aede7f751f6506491e70e062862f | A mother says she returned home from the school run to find a gaping hole in her new extension after the new £14,000 windows had been removed and 'held hostage' by fitters in a row over payment. Phoebe Oliver, 40, says she and her husband James had paid for the floor to ceiling windows to be installed in the annex of their home in Brighton, east Sussex. But when the mother-of-three returned home from taking their children to school last week she was shocked to find they had vanished, and there was a gaping hole where the windows had been. Phoebe Oliver (pictured) returned home from the school run to find a gaping hole in her new extension after the £14,000 windows had been removed and 'held hostage' by fitters in a row over payment. She has written this message on the windows herself - police say no crime has been committed and it is a civil matter . Mrs Oliver, who runs a PR firm and is also a fitness coach, had paid in full for the windows in November, but the bi-fold doors were later removed by the company which had installed them as part of a dispute between the firm and two other companies. Now the windows are being 'held hostage' at the warehouse of window and door specialist Sussex Bifold Doors, which says it will hold them until the firm has been paid by the other companies involved. 'This is just unbelievable,' she said. 'I took the kids on the school run and came home to find my windows had vanished. On a freezing cold winter day. 'And I have done absolutely nothing wrong. The bill for the windows was settled months ago when I paid the builders doing the job. The argument here is between a load of builders who I don't even know. Sussex Bifold Doors installed the windows, and says it will not return them until the firm is paid. Mrs Oliver has written this message on the board herself. The police have made it clear that no crime was committed, and the dispute over the windows is a civil matter . Fitness coach Mrs Oliver, who also runs a PR firm, had wanted to use the new annex as a gym . 'Yet they thought they had the right to simply turn up unannounced while I was out and, for want of better word, steal my new bi-fold windows. It is outrageous. 'I was left looking at nothing but fresh air where the windows should have been. I was only out of the house for a couple of hours at most.' Mrs Oliver, who planed to use the annex as a gym area for her fitness coaching, paid for the windows to be installed at her £730,000 four-bedroom home with inheritance money she was left by her father. 'What makes this worse is the fact I used the money my dear father left me for the work when he died,' she said. 'I felt an emotional attachment to the improvements I was making anyway and this has been a terrible way to treat someone who had paid in full. 'I feel like these people trespassed on my property without my permission and its an awful feeling, like they have violated my property and my family. I have three kids, two under 11 years of age, and I feel very vulnerable now.' Mrs Oliver says she paid in full for the work three months ago. She hired a building firm, who in turn hired another company to source the windows from Sussex Bifold Doors, which installed them . Mr Oliver visited the Sussex Bifold Doors warehouse in nearby Lancing to try and get the windows returned but was told by company staff they were holding them until the dispute was concluded. A scuffle ensued which led to Mr Oliver being arrested and ordered to pay a £90 fine. He also accidentally broke his foot in the incident and spent the night in hospital. Mrs Oliver has contacted Sussex Police who said it was a civil matter. She has also contacted lawyers over legal action to get her windows back. Now the annexe has been boarded up as Mrs Oliver tried to recover her windows. A spokesman for Sussex Bifold Doors said it would be keeping the windows until paid in full by the builders involved. Brighton-based builders Armstrong White, who were paid by Mrs Oliver, claim they paid a Brighton sub-contractor D and L Property Maintenance to source the windows from Sussex Bifold Doors. Lee Clowes, director of D and L, said: 'I am caught in the middle of an akward situation and the windows are really nothing to do with me.' He said he had not been paid by Armstrong White. Armstrong White have since returned to the house to secure the building. Mrs Oliver added: 'How can it be right for someone just to turn up and take what I have paid for while I am out taking my kids to school. 'It is just a disgraceful state of affairs. I think they thought they were dealing with a woman who would be intimidated. I am deeply upset by this but I won't let them get away with it.' | Phoebe Oliver paid building firm, who hired sub-contractor for windows .
Window supplier says it never received the cash – so took them back .
Mrs Oliver's husband James went to speak to the firm, but ended up being arrested, fined and accidentally breaking his foot .
Fitness instructor, 40, 'feels vulnerable' after windows removed from home .
Police say no crime was committed and it is a civil matter . |
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