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74,626 | d38c74dd2051642a3ef58ebd1d78cfccd3d1ae24 | A death row inmate told relatives and a criminal profiler he killed Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman while O.J. Simpson waited nearby, a new documentary claims. O.J. Simpson was tried and acquitted in the June 12, 1994, stabbing deaths of his ex-wife and her friend, although the actor and football legend was found liable in a civil wrongful death trial. Glen Rogers, who has been sentenced to death for murdering women in Florida and California, was arrested in November 1995 -- a month after Simpson's murder trial ended -- and charged with killing five women in several states. He told investigators at the time that he had killed at least 70 women, police said. "I'm absolutely certain that my brother Glen killed Nicole Simpson and Ron Goldman," said Clay Rogers, who narrated the film "My Brother The Serial Killer," which will debut on the Investigation Discovery channel Wednesday. "I know my brother did it because I've seen proof that he was there." Fred Goldman, the father of Ronald Goldman, immediately rejected the film's contention. "The overwhelming evidence at the criminal trial proved that one, and only one, person murdered Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman," Goldman said in a statement to CNN. "That person is O.J. Simpson and not Glen Rogers." "The fact that O.J. Simpson was acquitted was a travesty of justice that tarnished the criminal justice system," he said. "Now every guilty person prays to the altar of O.J. Simpson for deliverance from their crimes. A [hundred thousand] screaming Glen Rogers, packed in the Los Angeles Coliseum, all confessing in unison, would not absolve O.J. Simpson of the murders he committed." Simpson prosecutor now a novelist . Ronald Goldman's sister lashed out at the Investigation Discovery channel and film producers. "I am appalled at the level of irresponsibility demonstrated by the network and the producers of this so-called documentary," Kim Goldman told CNN. "I'm disappointed at the way this story was handled. Is this a confession?" David Monaghan, the film's producer, did not immediately respond to a CNN request for comment on Goldman's criticism. A spokesman for the Los Angeles Police Department said the department would investigate Rogers' claims but does not believe he was involved in Simpson and Goldman's killings. "The LAPD is quite confident that we know who killed Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman. We have no reason to believe that Mr. Rogers was involved," Commander Andrew Smith said. "Nevertheless, in the interest of being thorough in this case, our robbery homicide detectives will investigate his claims." Much of the documentary's support for the claim that Rogers killed Simpson and Goldman came from statements he purportedly made to his brother. Glen Rogers was a drifter in 1994 when he arrived in Los Angeles after the Northridge earthquake to work on a repair crew, according to the film. One job took him to Simpson's house as a painter, it said. "Glen told me, when he called, 'Guess who I'm partying with? Nicole Simpson,'" Rogers said, describing a call he said happened just a few days before the killings. "Actually, what he told me, he says, 'They got money, they're well off and I'm taking her down.'" The brother also claims that Glen Rogers took a gold angel pin off of Simpson's lifeless body and mailed it to his mother in Ohio the next day. Their mother wore the pin, at her son's request, at one of his murder trials, Rogers said. Criminal profiler Anthony Meoli, who exchanged dozens of letters with Glen Rogers and visited him on death row, said Rogers explained to him that O.J. Simpson had hired him to break into his ex-wife's condo to steal diamond earrings he had given her. "Glen told me that O.J.'s instructions were that 'You may have to kill the bitch,'" Meoli said. "Those were his exact words." Simpson told him about a spare key to the condo hidden outside the door, according to Meoli's description of Rogers' account. The attack happened on steps outside, though, when Goldman unexpectedly arrived, he said. The documentary includes a graphic re-creation of how Rogers described the attack to Meoli. Simpson, who was waiting in his car nearby, walked onto the bloody sidewalk to check Rogers' work, thus leaving his footprints at the crime scene, Meoli said. Los Angeles prosecutors matched a shoe print taken from the scene to the sole of an expensive Italian shoe they contended O.J. Simpson owned. Rogers began a cross-country killing spree that included about 70 female victims after the Simpson and Goldman murders, the film said. He was captured in Ohio in November 1995, weeks after O.J. Simpson was freed from jail. Rogers was sentenced to death in Florida after a jury convicted him of killing a woman in a Tampa motel. He was later convicted of murdering a California woman, which resulted in a second death sentence. No other states have tried him. He is awaiting execution in Florida and has no more appeals, according to the film. Assistant District Attorney Pat Dixon, who prosecuted Rogers in the 1990s, said Glen Rogers may have an ulterior motive for claiming to have killed Simpson and Goldman. "Rogers is on death row in Florida and California. If he's close to execution in Florida, he may be hoping that California will bring him back here which would postpone the execution," Dixon said. The Simpson and Goldman killings did not match Rogers' other killings, Dixon added. "Rogers and O.J. Simpson's cases don't match except that all the victims were stabbed. Rogers was a good-looking guy. He would go to bars, pick up women, court them, sometimes live with them a while, then kill them. The one victim he murdered in L.A., he killed the night he met her. I'm not aware of any instance of violence outside that pattern. What happened to Nicole Brown was totally different." O.J. Simpson is serving a 33-year sentence with the possibility of parole after nine years after being convicted of 10 charges related to an armed confrontation over sports memorabilia in a Las Vegas hotel room. He was convicted in 2008. CNN was unable to immediately reach Simpson or his lawyer for a response. | "I'm absolutely certain that my brother Glen killed Nicole Simpson and Ron Goldman," Clay Rogers says .
Glen Rogers was sentenced to death for murdering women in Florida and California .
Simpson and Goldman's killer "is O.J. Simpson and not Glen Rogers," Goldman's father says .
"My Brother The Serial Killer" debuts Wednesday on Investigation Discovery channel . |
195,978 | 89a0ad21c1c407000579e15ebac8a5489415507d | BERLIN, Germany (CNN) -- U.S. presidential contender Barack Obama used a speech Thursday in Berlin -- the German city that once symbolized Cold War division --- to warn about the dangers of allowing new walls to come between the United States and its allies. Barack Obama presses the flesh in Germany after his speech in Berlin's Tiergarten Park. Obama highlighted what he sees as common transatlantic goals while also accepting the differences of the Bush years. He is on the latest leg of an international trip intended to bolster his foreign policy credentials at home and set out his vision for a new era of transatlantic cooperation. In an echo of former President Ronald Reagan's speech when he demanded the Berlin Wall be pulled down, Obama said: "The walls between the countries with the most and those with the least cannot stand. The walls between races and tribes; natives and immigrants; Christian and Muslim and Jew cannot stand. These now are the walls we must tear down." Obama introduced himself to the Berlin crowd as a proud U.S. citizen and a "fellow citizen of the world." He said: "This city, of all cities, knows the dream of freedom. And you know that the only reason we stand here tonight is because men and women from both of our nations came together to work, and struggle, and sacrifice for that better life." Watch Obama in Germany » . He touched on issues that have generally divided Europe and the U.S. such as climate change as well as comparing Berlin's Cold War struggle with today's international challenges like fighting terrorism. "People of the world - look at Berlin, where a wall came down, a continent came together, and history proved that there is no challenge too great for a world that stands as one," he said. Obama said: "While the 20th century taught us that we share a common destiny, the 21st has revealed a world more intertwined than at any time in human history." He said the fall of the Berlin Wall offered hope as the world faces up to international challenges such as terrorism, climate change and loose nukes . "In this new world, such dangerous currents have swept along faster than our efforts to contain them. That is why we cannot afford to be divided," Obama said. He also addressed differences between the U.S. and Europe but added: "In Europe, the view that America is part of what has gone wrong in our world, rather than a force to help make it right, has become all too common. "In America, there are voices that deride and deny the importance of Europe's role in our security and our future. Both views miss the truth... "In this new century, Americans and Europeans alike will be required to do more - not less. Partnership and cooperation among nations is not a choice; it is the one way, the only way, to protect our common security and advance our common humanity." Turning to global warming, Obama said: "This is the moment when we must come together to save this planet. "Let us resolve that we will not leave our children a world where the oceans rise and famine spreads and terrible storms devastate our lands. Let us resolve that all nations - including my own - will act with the same seriousness of purpose as has your nation, and reduce the carbon we send into our atmosphere." CNN's Christiane Amanpour said despite the pro-Obama crowd who gathered at the Victory Column in Berlin's Tiergarten Park hours before the speech, many had serious questions about his policies. Tucker Bounds, a spokesman for Obama's Republican rival John McCain, said: "John McCain has dedicated his life to serving, improving and protecting America. Barack Obama spent an afternoon talking about it." Obama earlier played down suggestions he was delivering a campaign speech but conceded that his performance was intended as much for an American audience as for the gathering German crowds. He had originally hoped to speak in front of the iconic Brandenburg Gate, where U.S. President John F. Kennedy was photographed during a visit in 1963 shortly after the Berlin Wall had been built. Expressing solidarity with the people of the divided city during the same trip, Kennedy declared "Ich bin ein Berliner." The gate was also the site of a speech by U.S. President Ronald Reagan in 1987 in which he memorably urged Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev to "tear down" the wall. But use of the landmark was apparently vetoed by German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who a spokesman Wednesday said disapproved of plans to co-opt it as a "campaign backdrop." CNN European Political Editor Robin Oakley said Obama enjoyed widespread popularity in Europe, partly because of his optimism and partly because he is not President George W. Bush. Watch how Europe compares the two candidates » . But Oakley said Obama needed to prove to Americans that he could defend U.S. interests abroad. Republican rival John McCain's campaign team has frequently criticized Obama as being inexperienced on foreign policy and a recent poll suggested just 48 percent of Americans thought he would make a good commander in chief, compared to 72 percent for McCain. Germany's ties with the Bush administration have warmed since a fallout over the Iraq war, which Germany opposed. Germany and the U.S. have also disagreed over NATO member Germany's refusal to send troops into combat zones in southern Afghanistan. Oakley said European leaders would be seeking confirmation that Obama, if elected, would be a "listening president." In addition to Merkel, Obama is slated to meet with British Prime Minister Gordon Brown and opposition leader David Cameron as well as French President Nicolas Sarkozy. Obama's arrival in Europe follows earlier stopovers in Afghanistan, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Israel and the Palestinian territories. He says he is making the trip as a U.S. senator rather than a presidential contender. | U.S. presidential candidate Barack Obama gives speech in Germany .
Obama: Berlin's history offers hope for the future .
Obama: Remove walls between religions, races, and the rich and poor .
Trip is intended to shore up Obama's foreign policy credentials . |
118,011 | 246484dd1a2d0fd5c38265658476ffa57a6c79a1 | By . Richard Shears . PUBLISHED: . 03:41 EST, 18 January 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 10:35 EST, 18 January 2013 . As Britain shivered today the Australian city of Sydney is experiencing its hottest day on record. Thousands rushed to the beaches in and around Sydney as the city recorded its hottest-ever day – 45.8°C, 0.5°C above the previous hottest day in 1939. At Sydney airport, the temperature was even higher - 46.4°C. Scroll down for videos . Cooling down: Party-goers try and escape the 44 plus degrees temperatures by standing under a fire hose at the Sydney Big Day Out . Hot weather warning: Thousands of revellers at the Big Day Out at the Sydney Showground were also warned to drink plenty of water and wear protective clothing and sunscreen . Reclining on Sydney's Bondi Beach, British tourist Jamie Watson, 22, from Manchester, took pity on 'the folks back home.' 'You've . got to feel sorry for them,' he said. 'I've been reading how cold it is . back there. Yes, it's very, very hot here but all I have to do is run . into the surf and I cool down immediately.' The . heat wave caused traffic chaos, with traffic lights breaking down and . there were major delays on the city’s rail network after critical power . units succumbed to the heat. Australia's Met Bureau has extended its forecast map's temperature range (far right) to 54 celsius in anticipation of record temperatures as wildfires continue to rage across south east Australia . Record breaking: People sunbathe and swim at Dee Why beach n Sydney, Australia. Sydney temperatures reached 45.8 celcius degrees today, breaking the previous record of 45.3 set in 1939 . Fun in the sun: Thousands rushed to the beaches in and around Sydney as the city recorded its hottest-ever day . Heat: It was so hot that CityRail put out warnings to passengers saying that if they began to feel unwell on a train they should seek help ¿ or get off at the next stop and look for assistance . Battling: The rising heat,caused by reduced cloud cover over central and western Australia in recent weeks and which allowed a very hot air mass to build, has brought added problems to firefighters battling bushfires . Powerful: Marc Austin is helped after the extreme heat took its toll during the Youth Olympics Triathlon at Penrith Regetta in Sydney . It was so hot that CityRail put out . warnings to passengers saying that if they began to feel unwell on a . train they should seek help – or get off at the next stop and look for . assistance. Everyone was advised to carry a bottle of water with them. Race . meetings in New South Wales were called off and golf courses were empty . – but public swimming baths were filled to capacity. Thousands of revellers at the Big Day Out at the Sydney Showground were also warned to drink plenty of water and wear protective clothing and sunscreen. Quick dash: A kangaroo crossing a road in Gippsland, Victoria, Australia, as it escapes from a bushfire . Burnt sky: Bushfires burn out of control, tearing through Victoria nearly destroying the township of Heyfield . Raging: In the region homes are being evacuated and many have already been lost . The rising heat,caused by reduced cloud cover over central and western Australia in recent weeks and which allowed a very hot air mass to build, has brought added problems to firefighters battling bushfires in Victoria and New South Wales. In the Coonabarabran district in north west NSW, firefighters were trying to stop a massive bushfire that has destroyed 51 homes since it ignited last week end. Burning bright: A bushfire burns in Cessnock, about 120km (75 miles) north of Sydney . Destroyed: Burnt out caravans at Glenmaggie where bushfires razed the district east of Melbourne . Continue for days: Reports state that a bushfire burning mainly in forest country about 200km east of Melbourne is 'as bad as it gets' and could continue for days or even weeks . A 44,500-hectare fire is reported to have cut off the small town of Licola in eastern Victoria after blocking its sole access road. Officials said dozens of people had been evacuated but 10 locals were still there. Firefighters and Sydney residents . were hoping relief from the heat would come on Saturday when a cool . change was expected to blow in from the south, bringing with it the . chance of showers. Emergency effort: Helicopters water bomb as Rural Fire Service volunteers battle spot fires threatening the homes and heading towards the Newell Highway . Battle: Fire crews attend a bushfire near Lovett Bay in the Ku-Ring-Gai National Park, about 30 km (19 miles) north of Sydney's central business district . Change: Firefighters and Sydney residents were hoping relief from the heat would come on Saturday when a cool change was expected to blow in from the south, bringing with it the chance of showers . Effort: Rural Fire Service volunteers back burn to protect properties near the north western NSW town of Coonabarabran . Damage: Australian Prime Minster Julia Gillard stands in front of what remains of the bushfire during a tour of the devastated area near the north western NSW town of Coonabarabran . Feeling hot, hot, hot: British Foreign Secretary William Hague (second right) looks as though he is struggling in the heat alongside Australian Defence Minister Stephen Smith, and Australian Foreign Minister Bob Carr as they lay wreaths . Rob Gilder, a sheep farmer, said he and two employees had found themselves trapped on their farm and were 'in grave danger'. 'I am very worried. But I am hopeful that one of those helicopters will come and get us but I think the smoke might beat them.' Earlier this week Australia’s meteorologists were forced to create a new weather chart as they prepared for the . worst wildfires on record, with national parks evacuated and homes . continuing to burn. The . Bureau of Meteorology added deep purple and pink to their weather . chart's colours as its range was extended to 54°C from a previously . capped 50°C, in anticipation of record temperatures. | Temperatures in Sydney hit 45.8°C breaking 1939 record of 45.3°C .
At Sydney airport, the temperature was even higher – 46.4°C .
Firefighters are still battling dozens of wildfires sparked by the intense heat . |
39,699 | 701733f73b4223c967bc1f7021b7a81af4f23388 | (CNN) -- After a fine display against Manchester City in the Champions League, Barcelona couldn't back it up in La Liga. Combined with Real Madrid's victory, it means Barcelona was knocked off top spot in Spain. Barcelona suffered just its third league loss of the campaign when it was beaten 3-1 at Real Sociedad, with manager Gerardo Martino sent off for complaining to the referee. When Lionel Messi equalized in the 36th minute, most everyone must have thought Barcelona would go on to claim all three points. But two goals in a five-minute spell early in the second half handed Sociedad -- now unbeaten in four games -- all three points. For once Barcelona failed to convert its possession -- 65 percent -- to goals and midfielder Andres Iniesta admitted Sociedad was the better side. "Real played really well," Iniesta told Barcelona's website. "They were better than us, we were always trailing them. "I don't know if this is a step back, but the feelings after the match aren't good. We didn't interpret the game like we were supposed to, and we paid for it. Real had a better approach. "This defeat shouldn't make us give up. We have to work hard and turn this situation around. There are many points left, and we have games against direct rivals." Atletico Madrid can join city rival Real Madrid atop the standings and on 63 points, three more than Barcelona, if it wins Sunday. Barcelona defender Gerard Pique wasn't too concerned, though. "We're just one game off being league leaders so it's not too troubling," he said. "These things can happen. When you attack it's possible for them to score. Sometimes you don't feel comfortable on the pitch." Cristiano Ronaldo served the third game of his three-game suspension for Real Madrid but it didn't stop Real Madrid from easing past Elche 3-0 at home. Gareth Bale, who has struggled since moving to Spain from England's Tottenham, scored his team's second goal with a long-range effort into the top corner. "Bale didn't have confidence before scoring his great goal and after that he was totally different," Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti told reporters. "I am satisfied because we didn't concede. Our play could have been better but at this stage of the season we need to be solid and we were." Hamburg stunner . Hamburg escaped the relegation zone in Germany in style, thumping fading Borussia Dortmund 3-0 at home in Mirko Slomka's debut. Slomka replaced Dutchman Bert van Marwijk, who was sacked after Hamburg lost seven straight in the Bundesliga. Hakan Calhanoglu scored one of the goals of the season when he shot past keeper Roman Weidenfeller from near the halfway mark -- on a free kick. "I practice (free kicks) every single day," the Turkish under-20 international told the league's website. "If you don't, then you lose or forget your shooting technique. That's why I knew I could do it. I just thought to myself, 'Focus and hit it like in training.' "It was the best goal of my career." Nurnberg scored two goals a minute apart in the second half to down last-place Eintracht Braunschweig but the game was notable for this: Three penalties were missed, a first in Bundesliga history. Bayer Leverkusen's 3-1 loss to Wolfsburg meant idle Bayern Munich maintained its hefty 16-point lead in first. In Italy, Roma moved to within six points of leader Juventus with a 1-0 win at relegation threatened Bologna. | Barcelona suffers a rare defeat in Spain, losing at Real Sociedad .
Lionel Messi scores for Barca but it's not enough to prevent a 3-1 reverse .
Real Madrid leapfrogs Barcelona after coasting past Elche .
In Germany, a wonder goal helps Hamburg sink Borussia Dortmund . |
90,995 | 0106087ba646557a589f07ce84c4b8cf03a808e7 | (CNN) -- L'Wren Scott, a notable fashion designer and longtime girlfriend of Mick Jagger, killed herself by "hanging," New York City's chief medical examiner's office announced Wednesday. "The manner of death was determined to be suicide," said Julie Bolcer, a spokeswoman for the office. Scott's remains have been claimed, according to Bolcer, though it was not immediately known by whom. Wednesday's announcement makes official what was suspected after news came out about the 49-year-old woman's death. Business woes may have triggered suicide . A law enforcement official familiar with the investigation earlier said Scott's assistant -- after responding to a text to "come by" -- found the designer hanging from a door knob with a scarf around her neck on Monday morning. The lanky former model transitioned to become a stylist and eventually a designer. She designed costumes for films such as the 1996 remake of "Diabolique," 2000's "Mercy" and 2007's "Ocean's Thirteen." In addition to her haute couture creations, she designed a collection for Banana Republic that was introduced late last year. Madonna, Allison Williams and Christina Hendricks were among her celebrity clients. But she was most closely associated with Jagger, 70 -- not just for designing the iconic rocker's duds for the Rolling Stones' 50th anniversary tour, which began in 2012, but for being his longtime companion. The couple had been dating since at least 2003. "I am still struggling to understand how my lover and best friend could end her life in this tragic way," read a statement on the singer's website, MickJagger.com. "We spent many wonderful years together and had made a great life for ourselves. She had great presence and her talent was much admired, not least by me." People we lost in 2014 . CNN's Shimon Prokupecz and Elizabeth Landers contributed to this report. | New York medical examiner determines that L'Wren Scott died of suicide .
Her remains have been claimed, an office spokeswoman says .
The notable fashion designer was Mick Jagger's longtime girlfriend . |
114,442 | 1faeec472b6a88e6dfda04a73adab3ec9e9b149c | By . David Kent . Stoke City defender Robert Huth insists players who cry should be handed a three-match ban after Luis Suarez broke down at full-time of Liverpool's 3-3 draw at Crystal Palace. Having thrown away a three-goal lead, Suarez's Liverpool look to have lost nearly all hope of claiming their first league title in 24 years. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Suarez during happier times recently winning the PFA Player of the Year award . Hard man: Robert Huth is known for his rough tackling on the pitch and his harsh words off it . Broken: Luis Suarez was reduced to tears as Liverpool were held to a 3-3 draw having lead 3-0 after 60 minutes . The Uruguayan covered his face with his shirt and was comforted by Steven Gerrard at full-time, after Liverpool had been 3-0 up with 12 minutes remaining. Huth said on Twitter: 'Still maintain that crying on the pitch should warrant a 3 match ban.' Having had the title race in their own hands just over a week ago, Liverpool now must rely on Manchester City losing one of their two remaining home games against Aston Villa and West Ham to win the Premier League. Unstoppable: Dwight Gayle came off the bench to score twice as Crystal Palace recovered to get a point . Inconsolable: Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard lead Suarez away after the end of the match at Selhurst Park . Tussle: Huth (right) playing against Liverpool's Daniel Sturridge earlier in the season . | Tweet was posted after Liverpool's dramatic 3-3 draw at Crystal Palace .
Luis Suarez was left in tears at full-time .
Robert Huth said on Twitter: 'Still maintain that crying on the pitch should warrant a 3 match ban.' |
249,594 | cf083ced55d005d6fb8138abe586f8a3b926048a | Prince Andrew is to be promoted to the naval rank of Vice Admiral just weeks after he became mired in a teenage sex slave scandal. The Queen has approved the appointment, which is timed to mark her second son’s 55th birthday next week. Buckingham Palace last night said the move was a ‘long-standing convention’ that enables Andrew, who served as a Sea King pilot with the Royal Navy in the Falklands War, to be promoted in line with peers still serving in the military. Scroll down for video . Birthday present: The Duke of York has been promoted to vice-admiral by the Queen for his 55th birthday next week . Having fun: Andrew, pictured during a visit to Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton, Somerset, last month, joined the Royal Navy at 18 and served in the Falklands . Sources stressed that the move also recognised the ‘enormous amount of work that HRH does in support of the Royal Navy’. The honorary appointment comes after a difficult few weeks for the Duke of York. Last month he was publicly accused by Virginia Roberts of knowingly having sex with her when she was just 17, which he has continued to deny vigorously. In court papers US citizen Miss Roberts, now a married mother of three, claimed that she was forced to sleep with the prince on three occasions by his close friend, convicted paedophile Jeffery Epstein. A photograph showing Andrew with his arm around Miss Roberts’ bare midriff when she visited London with Epstein was also submitted as part of the case. Andrew has already admitted a grave error of judgment on his behalf on continuing his friendship with Epstein after he was released from prison for soliciting a minor. In 2011 he was forced to step down as special UK trade envoy after being photographed with the shamed billionaire financier the previous year. Allegations: Virginia Roberts (right) has claimed that she was forced by financier Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender, to have sex with Prince Andrew when she was 17, pictured together in early 2001 . Denial: Prince Andrew spoke for the first time last month to deny the sex accusations at the World Economic Forum in Davos . Buckingham Palace has vehemently denied the latest claims on the prince’s behalf, saying they are ‘categorically untrue’ and lack ‘any foundation’. And in a speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos earlier this month, Andrew, who continues to undertake royal duties funded by the Queen, stressed his innocence. The Queen has privately made clear she wants to stand by her second son and earlier this week allowed him to publish a photograph of her in her private apartment. The image, posted on the prince’s public Facebook account, was seen by some as a clear sign of her support. Now she has rubber-stamped his honorary promotion with the Royal Navy. In 2009 it was agreed that Andrew – who formally left the service in 2001 after 22 years – would enjoy ‘age-related’ promotions on par with colleagues who had remained in the service. Under the agreement, the prince was promoted to Rear Admiral when he turned 50 in 2009 and will become Vice Admiral on his 55th birthday on Thursday next week. He is due to become Admiral at 60 but any honorary rank after that would be at the behest of the Queen. The latest appointment was announced in the London Gazette. A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: ‘This was approved by the Queen in line with long-standing convention covering military promotions for members of the Royal Family.’ A Royal Navy spokesman added: ‘Following his active service, His Royal Highness has been hugely supportive of the Royal Navy and has undertaken a vast amount of work for the service over many years.’ A source added: ‘The Duke of York does a huge amount of work for the Royal Navy and in order for him to remain in step in terms of rank with his contemporaries... the Royal Navy established a policy in 2009 by which he is promoted in line with his peers.’ Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article. | Duke of York has been promoted in time for his 55th birthday next week .
Prince joined Navy at 18 and fought in the Falklands before retiring at 41 .
Andrew still carries out official naval duties from the Armed Forces .
Royal is under pressure after being engulfed in underage sex scandal . |
110,516 | 1a77b18b4c8c83dd7828a0a738aca1e3355fb507 | (CNN) -- An election-year Democratic measure designed to ensure that women don't face pay discrimination was blocked Tuesday by Republicans who complained that the bill was politically inspired and would reward trial lawyers at the expense of employers. The motion, which needed 60 votes to succeed, got only 52, not one from a Republican. President Obama issued a statement criticizing Republicans for putting "partisan politics ahead of American women and families." Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nevada, standing at a news conference with pay equity advocate Lilly Ledbetter, accused Republicans of "wanting to stick their heads in the sand" about the longstanding issue of women being paid less than men. "But it's clear where Democrats stand," Reid said. The bill, which Democrats said would close loopholes in the 1963 Equal Pay Act, would require employers to prove that differences in pay were related to job performance, not gender; would prevent employers from forbidding employees from sharing salary information with each other; and would allow women who believe they were discriminated against to sue for damages. Democrats acknowledged privately that they expected to make political gains with women by pressing to close the pay gap, which they said has women earning just 77 cents on the dollar compared with men. Republicans, fearful that Democrats were trying to portray them as insensitive to women, argued that they oppose pay discrimination but disagree with the Democrats' bill, which was written without their input. Republicans remained largely silent about the issue in the days leading up to the vote, even as Democrats, led by the president, made an all-out push for the legislation. Only one Republican senator, Dean Heller of Nevada, who is in a tight re-election race against Democratic Rep. Shelley Berkley, spoke on the floor against the bill. In his brief speech, Heller proposed an alternative bill to combat the problem, but Democrats criticized it as insufficient. Off the floor, a few Republicans spoke about the bill, but only when asked by reporters. "We think it is the wrong way of going about dealing with this issue," said Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the minority leader, who described the measure as a reward for pro-Democratic trial lawyers. "This is just politics. This should be called the trial lawyers bonanza bill," complained Sen. Mike Enzi of Wyoming, the top Republican on the Senate labor committee. "It has nothing to do with the women. They will get very little out of it. What it allows is huge class-action suits with very little defense by any employer." Even the retiring moderate Republican senator from Maine, Olympia Snowe, whose support Democrats hoped to win, called the Democrats' bill "regrettable" and an "overreach." "I think there are other ways (of) addressing these issues, and this legislation goes too far," Snow said. The bill "would put a tremendous burden on employers through lawsuits, class-action lawsuits." Sen. Barbara Mikulski, D-Maryland, the chief sponsor of the pay equity bill, vowed to return to the bill until it passes. "We will be back," she said. "Though we lost the vote today, we are not giving up for equal pay, for equal rights." | Democrats say bill would ensure that women don't face pay discrimination .
Republicans counter that it would reward trial lawyers at employers' expense .
Sponsor vows to bring measure back until it passes . |
276,726 | f27eb8f53bebdfbf6fd364837798c9c42baa0830 | A federal judge on Friday ruled that Michigan's prohibition on same-sex marriage violates the U.S. Constitution, ordering the state to stop enforcing the ban. "Today's decision ... affirms the enduring principle that regardless of whoever finds favor in the eyes of the most recent majority, the guarantee of equal protection must prevail," U.S. District Judge Bernard Friedman wrote. Michigan is the latest state in which federal judges have struck down state constitutional bans on gay marriage. Similar rulings recently have been issued in Texas, Virginia, Kentucky, Oklahoma and Utah, though in those cases judges have put off enforcement of the decisions until higher courts can weigh in. Friday's decision is different in that it opens the door for same-sex couples to get marriage licenses in Michigan very soon. Barb Byrum, the elected county clerk for Ingham County and a Democrat, said she is eager and ready to do so once her office opens at 8 a.m. Monday. "This is a wonderful decision," Byrum said. "Many Michiganders have been waiting for equality in our great state, and I look forward to the opportunity to issue marriage licenses to all loving couples." That day may not come so fast. Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette, a Republican whose term expires later this year, announced Friday evening he's filed an emergency request for Friedman's order to be stayed and appealed. "In 2004, the citizens of Michigan recognized that diversity in parenting is best for kids and families because moms and dads are not interchangeable," Schuette said. "Michigan voters enshrined that decision in our state constitution, and their will should stand and be respected." He was referring to the year that voters in Michigan, along with those in 10 other states, passed state constitutional amendments restricting "marriage or (a) similar union" to between one man and one woman. Whether same-sex couples should be allowed to wed was a hot-button issue then and in subsequent years, with polls showing that most Americans favored restrictions. But public opinion shifted over time. An ABC News/Washington Post survey released earlier this month found that 59% of Americans favor allowing gay or lesbian couples to legally wed. Michigan's amendment, specifically, states the rationale for its restrictions is "to secure and preserve the benefits of marriage for our society and for future generations of children." Friedman -- like federal judges in other recent, similar cases -- ruled Michigan's ban violates the Equal Protection Clause in the U.S. Constitution's 14th Amendment. He said, "The court finds the (Michigan Marriage Amendment) impermissibly discriminates against same-sex couples in violation of the Equal Protection Clause because the provision does not advance any conceivable state interest." The plaintiffs in the Michigan case, April DeBoer and Jayne Rowse, sued in part because Michigan law also "restricts adoptions to either single persons or married couples." They had hoped to jointly adopt three children under their care. Friday's ruling, then, would seem to open the door to same-sex couples jointly adopting children, since now they could be legally married. In the ruling, Friedman cited the Supreme Court's landmark decisions last June rejecting parts of the Defense of Marriage Act while ruling same-sex spouses legally married in a state may receive federal benefits. The justices didn't go as far as saying that all states must allow such marriages to take place within their borders, but a number of lower federal courts did subsequently step into the fray. In addition to United States v. Windsor, Friedman also pointed to Loving v. Virginia -- in which the Supreme Court ruled that Virginia's ban on interracial marriages was unconstitutional. "Both the Windsor and Loving decisions stand for the proposition that, without some overriding legitimate interest, the state cannot use its domestic relations authority to legislate families out of existence," the judge wrote. Keeping their own family together is and was DeBoer and Rowse's No. 1 goal, they said. "Jayne and I do want to get married, but this case is about the protection of our children," a joyful DeBoer said. "It is not about individuals, it is not about her or my relationship. It is about ensuring that our children will remain together no matter what happens to her and I." | Winning plaintiff says, "This case is about the protection of our children"
Federal judge: Michigan state amendment barring gay marriage is unconstitutional .
Michigan is the latest state in which a federal judge has taken action .
Its attorney general files appeal to stay, overturn judge's decision . |
285,980 | fe8a594e9bab05cf0f5db4f5b91fca2ecc57a2f9 | Mehdi Benatia has revealed he turned down Manchester City and Chelsea to join Bayern Munich. The central defender joined the German giants from Roma in a £20million deal last month after rejecting the Premier League duo. The 27-year-old also spurned offers from Real Madrid and Barcelona and says he is very happy to be a part of Pep Guardiola’s squad. VIDEO Scroll down to see Benatia's new team mate Alonso talk about Pep Guardiola . Spoilt for choice: Mehdi Benatia has revealed he turned down offers from Chelsea, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Barcelona to join Bayern Munich in a £20m move from Roma over the summer . New colours: Benatia poses with daughter Lina and a Bayern strip at his unveiling press conference . Roar: Benatia in action for his former club Roma before the switch to German champions Bayern . ‘Manchester City and Chelsea wanted me, while there were also approaches from Real Madrid and Barcelona,’ Benatia was quoted as saying by Kicker. ‘I discussed my future with Roma sporting director Walter Sabatini. He told me that the club wanted to hold on to me, but that they needed the money from a sale. That annoyed me, because I initially wanted to stay put. ‘But let it be clear, I was happy to join Bayern Munich. I like Munich – even if it’s a bit cold here.’ | Mehdi Benatia revealed he turned down Premier League giants Manchester City and Chelsea before opting to join Bayern Munich .
Real Madrid and Barcelona also made approaches for Roma defender .
But he joined the Bundesliga giants last month in a £20m deal .
Bentia insists he is happy to be in Munich, despite the cold weather . |
135,739 | 3b9c297964b8b1df38c28ddab511eaa0635f15e8 | By . Sophie Jane Evans . PUBLISHED: . 09:02 EST, 22 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 09:07 EST, 22 November 2013 . Warning: Scottish secretary Alistair Carmichael has warned that Scotland will be forced to quit the sterling if it votes for independence next year . Scotland will be forced to quit the sterling if it votes for independence next year, the Scottish secretary has warned. Alistair Carmichael said the country could not guarantee a currency union with the UK after becoming independent. It is the most prevalent warning yet for Scottish voters to remain in the UK in the referendum on September 18 next year. Speaking about the possibility of keeping sterling, Mr Carmichael told The Financial Times: 'George Osborne has said ... it is highly . unlikely. 'Most people in Whitehall understand that if George Osborne . says something is highly unlikely, it is not going to happen.' And when asked if he believed an independent Scotland would be excluded from the currency, he simply replied: 'Yes'. Mr Carminchael's comments come as the Scottish National Party prepares to unveil its blue-print for its the vision of an independent Scotland. If the country achieves independence, party leaders are expected to insist that it should be able to keep the sterling as an 'asset' that is partly owned by Scotland. This would allow the country to continue sharing the benefits of the Bank of England. Earlier this year, George Osborne warned that Scotland could end up 'like Panama' if it gains independence, but keeps the pound. Poll: Voters in Scotland will have their say on independence in a referendum on 18 September next year . George Osborne, left, said it was 'unlikely' the rest of the UK would want an independent Scotland to keep the sterling, while Carwyn Jones, right, declared he would try to veto any attempt to create a currency union . The Chancellor said it was ‘unlikely’ the rest of the UK would want to enter a currency union with a separate Scotland. However, he has refused to rule it out - claiming he would not 'prenegotiate' the terms of the country's exit from the union. The First Minister of Wales has also declared that he would try to veto any attempt to create a currency union with Scotland following independence - claiming it was a 'messy' solution that could have a detrimental effect on Wales. | Independent Scotland can not keep the sterling, warns Alistair Carmichael .
Claims separate country can not guarantee currency union with the UK .
Scottish referendum will take place on September 18 next year . |
166,790 | 63ad10c2cd21386bc4186299348ffe1e57dde30e | The flecks of grey hair betray his advancing years but, even at 37, Emile Heskey does not have to think too far back for his last appearances in a Liverpool shirt. November. Two games against a Singapore Select XI and Thailand Over 30s. Heskey was playing for a Liverpool Legends team and the pre-match preparations were, let us say, not quite what they were in his Anfield heyday. ‘It was different,’ says Heskey, breaking into laughter. ‘I’m used to going to bed at a certain time, especially before a game. Emile Heskey trains with his Bolton team-mates, including Eidur Gudjohnsen (second from the left) Heskey enjoys himself during a recent press conference ahead of his return to Anfield . ‘Robbie Fowler asked if I wanted to play and I thought, “yeah, I’m not doing anything, I’ll come out”. There was me, Robbie, Didi (Hamann), Macca (Steve McManaman), Stephane Henchoz, David Thompson and Patrik Berger. Who kept me up? Everyone.’ Two months on and there have been no more late nights as Heskey, an FA Cup winner with Liverpool 14 years ago, returns to Anfield to face his old club in the fourth round on Saturday as a Bolton Wanderers player. The last few weeks have, he admits, ‘been a bit of a whirlwind’. ‘At 37, would I have been thinking I’d be playing against Liverpool at Anfield? Probably not, but I’m going to relish every moment. ‘It’s going to be great. You get into football for the love of the game and to win trophies, and I managed to do that at Liverpool. I had a wonderful time.’ Heskey’s thoughts were turning to the beach in Antigua when a chance meeting with Neil Lennon, an old Leicester City team-mate, led to an invitation to have a trial for Bolton in an Under 21 game. After leaving the Premier League, Heskey went to play in the A-League with Newcastle Jets . But a chance meeting with former Leicester City team-mate Neil Lennon earned him a move to Bolton . The 6ft 2in former England striker had not played properly for six months since being released by Australian club Newcastle Jets. He was training at Blackburn but Lennon saw enough in the first 15 minutes to know that he could still play in the Championship. Heskey signed a short-term deal on Christmas Eve and scored for his new club against Blackburn two days later, assisted by Eidur Gudjohnsen, another veteran enjoying a new lease of life at Bolton. ‘I tried to sign Emile for Celtic but the big bugger wouldn’t come,’ says Lennon. ‘He didn’t have a choice this time once I got a grip on him.’ Heskey’s career peaked at Liverpool. A battering ram of a centre forward, he scored 60 goals in 223 games after signing for a then club record £11million, and was part of Gerard Houllier’s Treble-winning side that lifted the FA Cup, League Cup and UEFA Cup in 2001. That year he also scored England’s fifth goal in a 5-1 World Cup qualifying win over Germany in Munich. ‘It was a great year and a great time to be playing football,’ he recalls. Success did not follow quite so easily after that, however. In the next eight years, Heskey scored only 38 goals for Birmingham, Wigan and Aston Villa. The former Liverpool striker shakes hands with Arsenal legend Thierry Henry back in 2000 . Heskey playing for current club Bolton (left) and during his days as a Liverpool striker (right) When he retired from international football after the 2010 World Cup, in which he was made the scapegoat for England’s failure under Fabio Capello, he had just seven England goals in 62 games. His advocates point out that he was a target man who brought out the best from a succession of strike partners including Michael Owen and Wayne Rooney. To others he became a figure of fun. When Heskey scored for Bolton last month, local comic Paddy McGuinness had to make good on a bet and clean the striker’s boots. Even the fans’ version of Walking in a Heskey Wonderland includes the line ‘he used to be s***e but now he’s all right’. Lennon is not alone in believing that his old friend has a point to prove, but Heskey says his record speaks for itself: ‘Four League Cups, FA Cup, UEFA Cup, Super Cup, Charity Shield, played in two World Cups, two Euros. That’s not bad. I’m happy. ‘If I could have got more goals, I would have loved to. But it never hindered me from achieving and winning trophies. Heskey scores for Bolton against Blackburn after being set up by fellow veteran striker Gudjohnsen . Heskey revealed he hopes to play for one more year and will enjoy every minute he has left playing . ‘Between 2004 and 2008 I didn’t get picked for England. Then I came back at 30 and played until 32. People asked why I was being picked again but managers were picking me and they were happy.’ Heskey still looks in shape but he is reminded that his new Bolton team-mate Zach Clough was born on the same day that he made his Premier League debut for Leicester in 1995. In the Under 21 trial against Reading, he faced Martin Keown’s son Niall. Did Keown Jnr kick him as well? ‘He tried,’ says Heskey. ‘When I was growing up, everyone was saying that you’re finished at 35. You’ve got that in your mind and when I got to 35, I thought I was finished. ‘But you realise you can play to whatever age you want as long as you change your game and your legs hold out. ‘I’ve seen many players do it. You’ve got Frank Lampard doing it, Didier Drogba, Eidur... Steven Gerrard is 35 in May. Teddy Sheringham played until he was 42. It’s how you live your life. ‘I feel I can play another year. Whether that happens is another thing.’ | Emile Heskey signed for Bolton Wanderers this season .
The former Liverpool man was brought to the club by Neil Lennon .
The two had played together at Leicester City .
Heskey will face his old club Liverpool at Anfield in the FA Cup . |
114,992 | 20674c320087e2457ca239687f60238a0845e058 | Michael Essien has backed teammate Fernando Torres to score 'lots of goals' at AC Milan after the former Chelsea pair were reunited at the San Siro. The Spain international's time at Stamford Bridge will always be classed an expensive mistake after he failed to live up to his prolific reputation following a £50million move from Liverpool in 2011. However, Essien claims that the 30-year-old has been working hard in training and will rejuvenate his stalled career with the Serie A side. Torres takes on Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal in Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus . Spain international's time at Stamford Bridge will not be remembered as a success . 'I really hope he does well for Milan and for himself because he's a top striker and we'll benefit from his goals. 'He's a hard worker both in games and in training and that can also serve him well at Milan,' Essien told fifa.com. 'One thing Milan can expect to see is 100 per cent all the time from him. I am convinced we'll see lots of goals from Fernando,' he added. Essien's final seasons with the Blues were equally lacklustre after the Ghana international struggled to recover from a series of career threatening injuries before signing for the Rossoneri on a one-and-a-half year contract in January. Michael Essien (L) left Stamford Bridge after seasons struggling with form and fitness . Jose Mourinho has created a team in his own image that can be a force in Europe for next decade . The midfielder, known as 'The Bison', bears no ill feeling towards his former club and believes influential manager Jose Mourinho has constructed a team that can be a force in Europe for the forseeable future. Asked how he thinks Chelsea will perform this season, Essien said: 'I think they'll do well as always. Jose has rebuilt the team in his own image now and they'll fight for everything this season. 'They have to ability to win things and that’s what they'll be doing. Chelsea have become a football force in Europe in the last ten years and I can see that carrying on for the next ten years or more.' | Michael Essien backs Fernando Torres to score goals at AC Milan .
Former teammates both moved to the Serie A side from Chelsea .
Torres failed to live up to his reputation after £50m move from Liverpool .
Essien believes Jose Mourinho has created a Blues team that can be a force in Europe for a decade . |
119,485 | 2657dc8695d0c225b243a5223923b28619adc90f | A 64-year-old man miraculously survived with his head trapped underneath his overturned snowmobile for 20 hours overnight in running water as the temperature fell to 13 below freezing. Volunteer rescuers close to the Canadian border in Maine, discovered Paul Lessard lying in a stream with his head underneath the heavy machine's rear storage rack at 7.45am on Wednesday morning. He had been stuck there since around noon the previous day and temperatures had fallen to 8F (-13C) overnight. Although conscious he was showing signs of hypothermia. Survivor: Paul Lessard, 64, (centre) spent 20 hours trapped underneath his snowmobile before being rescued by volunteers Phil Corriveau and his son Tyler . Mr Lessard, known locally as 'Moses, had overturned the machine and landed in a watery ditch adjacent to the trail after setting off for a ride near Black lake in Maine's St John Plantation on Tuesday morning. He was eventually found by Phil Corriveau, owner of the local Arctic Cat snowmobile dealership, and his son Tyler, who had volunteered to join the search. Speaking to Maine's Bangor Daily News, Mr Corriveau said: 'We saw a track that went in but that did not come back out. 'I was pretty sure it was an Arctic Cat track, so I told my son, "Let’s go see." We could not see [Lessard] at all, The sled was on top of him. 'He moved his arm and said, "you found me.” We told him to hang on.' Mr Lessard crashed as he rode the snowmobile near Black Lake, close to the Canadian border in Maine . Tyler Corriveau called wardens on his cellphone and the two men attempted to move the sled to free Lessard, but it was too heavy. They managed to shovel away enough snow to free Lessard’s head. Mr Corriveau added: 'It’s just plain luck we found him there. It was only 8 degrees this morning.' Mr Lessard of Milford, Massachusetts, had been reported missing around 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday by his friend Nelson Gagnon who was expecting to meet him for supper. The initial search was called off at 2.30am. Mr Lessard was taken to Northern Maine Medical Center in Fort Kent and subsequently transferred by ambulance to Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor where he was in stable condition. | Volunteer rescuers discovered Paul Lessard lying in a stream .
His head was trapped underneath the heavy machine's rear storage rack .
He landed in a watery ditch by the trail after his snowmobile overturned . |
260,198 | dcee429d4cb1dec0e724765e245723cd6047844c | By . Shari Miller . PUBLISHED: . 11:46 EST, 5 April 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:54 EST, 5 April 2013 . A prolific criminal, who broke into a house to steal onion bhajis from the kitchen, was caught after he was found asleep in the garden. John Stalker, 59, from Workington, Cumbria, who has been found guilty of burglary, also stole apple juice and a slice of birthday cake from the home of Marie Mulla, last October. The owner had gone out for the evening with her 16-year-old daughter. Prolific criminal John Stalker, 59, was found guilty of breaking into a house and stealing food from the kitchen at Carlisle Crown Court . After taking the food, Stalker went outside the house in Silloth, Cumbria and fell asleep in a garden chair, where he was later found by Mrs Mulla's son, Lewis. The 18-year-old had noticed food was missing from the fridge and while the birthday cake and apple juice were found beside Stalker, there was no sign of the onion bhajis. Stalker, who is a prolific petty criminal with 98 previous convictions, pleaded guilty to burglary and was jailed for 81 days. Because of the time he has already spent in prison on remand, he will be released almost immediately. Carlisle Crown Court heard the break-in happened on the morning of October 2, after Stalker had been on a night out. After he was abandoned in Carlisle by the two men he had been with, Stalker hitchhiked as far as Abbeytown before walking through the night - and the rain - to Silloth. Following the break-in, Stalker stole the food items before falling asleep in the garden chair and wrapped himself in a canvas canopy. But Stalker was soon discovered by the teenager when he looked outside and saw the intruder asleep. He managed to wake him 'with some difficulty'. Stalker then threatened to kill the youth if he dared follow him over the hedge through which he escaped. Stalker was arrested five hours later in the nearby village of Blitterlees. The court heard Mrs Mulla now feels unsettled and insecure in her own home, and is plagued by thoughts of what might have happened if her son had confronted Stalker inside the house. In mitigation defence advocate Mark Shepherd - who described it as 'the most unsophisticated burglary imaginable' - said Stalker had been so exhausted after his long walk that the police who arrested him had sent him to hospital, because they were so worried about him. His 'sheer exhaustion' meant he could not remember going into the Mullas' house, he said. 'He has no recollection of it, but having been presented with the evidence he accepts he did it,' he said. Passing sentence, Judge Robert Brown told Stalker he shared Mrs Mulla's worries about what might have happened if her son had confronted him inside the house. He said: 'One is left wondering how you would have reacted had Lewis come downstairs at the time you were in the kitchen. 'In view of the threats you made to him when out in the garden, It is at least possible that there might have been a physical altercation.' | John Stalker, 59, found guilty of breaking into house and stealing food .
The prolific offender has 98 previous convictions for petty crime .
Homeowner's teenage son discovered intruder asleep in garden chair .
Stalker's defence called it 'the most unsophisticated burglary imaginable' |
226,451 | b1370203b46394e7d7461b158be5d1a1f679e87d | By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 16:12 EST, 28 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 17:21 EST, 28 January 2014 . Victim: Elizabeth Thomas, 17, was stabbed to death on Friday in Oxted, Surrey . The devastated family of an A-level student who was stabbed to death have spoken of their loss, saying 'we have lost our Sunday child'. Elizabeth Thomas, 17, died from a stab wound at a property in Oxted, Surrey, last Friday. A 16-year-old boy, arrested on suspicion of murder has been sectioned under the Mental Health Act. In a statement issued through Surrey Police, her family said: 'Elizabeth was a kind, caring, loving and gentle girl and her death has left our lives broken beyond repair, we have lost our Sunday child. 'Throughout her GCSEs, Elizabeth studied hard and did very well. She was now working towards her A-levels and we were all extremely proud of what she had achieved. 'Following Elizabeth's death we have been truly overwhelmed by the messages and support we have received from everyone who knew her.' They paid particular tribute to Elizabeth's friends and friends of her younger sister, saying they had shown 'a great sense of maturity and respect'. In the traditional folk song Monday's Child, 'the child who is born on the Sabbath Day. Is bonny and blithe and good and gay.' Detectives from the Surrey and Sussex major crime team have previously said the death of Elizabeth was an 'isolated incident'. They said the property where Elizabeth was found stabbed would be the focus of police activity for 'the coming days'. Elizabeth, who grew up in West Wickham, south-east London, was a student at Oxted School, a mixed comprehensive with more than 2,000 pupils, one of the largest secondary schools in the country. Detailed search: Forensics officers carry out an investigation at the building in Oxted, Surrey where Elizabeth was killed . Students were told about the tragedy this week and counselling was being made available to them, according to executive head Rhona Barnfield. Ms Barnfield said this week that the school community was 'deeply saddened and upset' by the death of Elizabeth. In a statement, she said: 'We are deeply . saddened and upset by the tragic news about the death of one of our . students and we extend our sincere condolences to her family at this . very difficult time. The victim's parents described her as 'a kind, caring, loving and gentle girl' 'We have informed our students and made counselling and support available to any of them who have been especially distressed. 'As a police investigation is ongoing, there is nothing more we can add at this time.' One neighbour said the suspect suffered from autism, adding: ‘I often see him. He never speaks, he always just keeps his head down.’ . The victim’s body was discovered in a flat above a supermarket in Oxted, Surrey, by police shortly after 5pm on Friday. Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Claire Pridgeon said: 'This is a complex investigation which will no doubt continue for some time. 'We believe this to be an isolated incident and that there is no risk to the further community. 'I would like to thank the community of Oxted who have assisted with the investigation so far.' Shocked neighbours described how police suddenly descended on the street shortly after 5.20pm on Friday evening. One said: 'It's a very unusual occurrence in a place like Oxted. It's shocking and sad a young girl has lost her life.' The 16-year-old boy was initially arrested on suspicion of murder under Section 2 of the Mental Health Act. He has been transferred to a secure hospital while he remains on police bail, a spokesman for Surrey Police has said. | Elizabeth Thomas, 17, died from a stab wound at a property in Oxted .
Her family said her death had left their lives 'broken beyond repair'
16-year-old boy, arrested on suspicion of murder, has been sectioned . |
13,797 | 27223f0c1bb99931a9da43e716968a9d2d3df3d0 | A mother has broken her silence and revealed her heartbreak about her daughter's 'horrific' death at the hands of a 'friend' she had taken pity on. Kailee Clapp's still-burning body was dumped in a cemetery by Stathis Kirkpatrick in January 2011. The 14-year-old was so badly charred she had to be identified by her dental records. He had lured her to her death by promising her a present – then stabbed her and set her alight while she was still alive. Stathis Kirkpatrick, right, was sentenced to life in prison after he killed Kailee Clapp, left, and dumped her still-burning body was dumped in a cemetery in January 2011 . Kirkpatrick was sentenced to life in prison in December 2012. He refused to explain why he killed Kailee – but gave his family the thumbs up as he was jailed. Now Kailee's mother Nora Clapp, 51, of McCook, Nebraska, has spoken out about her heartbreak. 'The truth about what had happened to Kailee was horrific. It turned out Stathis began texting her just after 3am on the night she disappeared in January 2011,' she said. 'He told my daughter he had a belated Christmas present for her, and lured her from her bed. 'One of Kailee's last text messages to him was to say she'd meet him at the top of the alley by our house. 'There Stathis attacked her, stabbing her cheek and chin. He bundled her battered body into his car and drove her to the cemetery. 'While she was still breathing, he doused her in petrol and set her on fire. Kailee was so charred she had to be identified from her dental records.' On September 6, 2012, Kirkpatrick, then 20, of McCook, Nebraska, appeared in Red Willow County District Court and pleaded 'no contest' to first degree murder. Kailee's mother Nora Clapp, 51, of McCook, Nebraska, has spoken of her heartbreak and says she doesn't understand how anyone could be 'so evil' The court was told Kailee had initially been badly mutilated. Afterwards – while still alive – she had had petrol poured on her and was then set alight. Mrs Clapp said she believed Kirkpatrick targeted her daughter because he fancied her and she was not interested. 'Imagining what she went through and how scared she must have been, was just unbearable,' she said. 'I still don't understand how anyone could be so evil. But I think Stathis was bitter Kailee had rejected him and murdered her out of spite. 'I wish she had never gone to meet him that night. But she was so friendly she probably didn't have the heart to tell him to go away. He took advantage of my girl's kindness to kill her.' Mrs Clapp told how Kailee had initially met Kirkpatrick when he was 18 and they attended the same school. He had moved to Nebraska from New Mexico. 'Kailee said he'd moved in with his aunt because he's been struggling to get along with his family in New Mexico,' she said. 'She told me, 'he hasn't had the best start in life, but he's a great person'. 'It was typical of her to see the good in everyone. 'But they were only friends. Kailee was dating another boy who she went to school with and who was lovely.' Mrs Clapp believes Kirkpatrick targeted her 14-year-old daughter, pictured, because he fancied her and she was not interested . One Thursday evening, in January 2011, Kailee was watching television with her mother and sister Karen, now 17, when she went to bed around 10pm. Her mother checked on her later and she was asleep. It was the last time she saw her daughter. 'Karen said she wasn't in bed,' Mrs Clapp said. 'I called her mobile but it was switched off. 'I was frantic and called the police. They immediately searched for her. But the hours ticked by and there was no news. 'I went to Kailee's school and began questioning the kids in her class. No-one seemed to have a clue. 'While I was walking home, I was passing an alleyway near our house when I froze – I noticed blood stains on the ground and I instinctively knew it was Kailee's blood.' 'I felt sick with dread as I phoned the police.' Mrs Clapp said she told police: 'It's Kailee's blood.' But it was hours before they had news. Kailee's body had been found in a cemetery 20 miles from her home, mutilated and torched. 'Police told me they'd arrested Stathis in connection with Kailee's disappearance. 'I was so confused. I didn't know what he had to do with her disappearance. 'The next few months were torture. The police couldn't tell us why Stathis was suspected of murdering Kailee. Mrs Clapp, pictured center, said the family remember Kailee, left, everyday, but added: 'Our family will never be the same again' 'Some of her friends had a theory about why he might have done it. They told me Stathis had a crush on Kailee but she told him he wasn't interested.' Mrs Clapp said she remembers Kailee every day, but added: 'Our family will never be the same again.' She said: 'We think about Kailee every day and talk about constantly. 'Last summer, Karen graduated from high school. In her speech, she told her classmates about her little sister. ''She was my best friend. She'll always be with me.' 'Now, every year on the anniversary of Kailee's death, we hold a candlelit vigil for her in the park. 'Kailee's death has left an empty hole in my heart. But I'm determined to keep her memory alive.' | Stathis Kirkpatrick dumped Kailee Clapp's burning body in a cemetery .
The 14-year-old was so charred she had to be identified by dental records .
Now, Kailee's mother Nora Clapp, 51, has spoken of her heartbreak .
Kirkpatrick, of McCook, Nebraska, was sentenced to life in prison in 2012 .
Mrs Clapp said: 'I still don't understand how anyone could be so evil' |
234,773 | bbef8567b13bc726719371bf0f1cbe7c786503dd | By . Daily Mail . PUBLISHED: . 19:50 EST, 10 January 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 19:50 EST, 10 January 2013 . While HRT is very effective, Dr Tong says soy, red clover and black cohosh, can also be very effective in relieving menopausal symptoms . Herbal and complementary medicines are a viable alternative to hormone replacement therapy for postmenopausal women who fear the possible side effects, according to new research. Soy for instance, the most common plant containing oestrogen, can reduce hot flushes by more than half, says a scientist who carried out a review into previous studies. Red clover, a legume also containing the female hormone, and black cohosh, a plant originating in the US and Canada, also ease symptoms. Women's primary care specialist Dr Iris Tong, of Brown University, Rhode Island, who led the review, said: 'Up to 75 per cent of women use herbal and complimentary medicines to treat their postmenopausal symptoms. 'Therefore, it is vitally important for healthcare providers to be aware of and informed about the non-pharmacological therapies available for women who are experiencing postmenopausal symptoms and who are looking for an alternative to HRT.' The menopause is associated with an oestrogen deficiency and can cause an increase in hot flushes, vaginal dryness, sexual dysfunction, frequent urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence and joint pain as well as sleep and mood disturbance. About two in three postmenopausal women experience hot flushes and a fifth for up to 15 years, writes Dr Tong in the journal The Obstetrician and Gynaecologist (TOG). Oestrogen deficiency can also lead to cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis and while many drugs are available, a number of non-pharmacological alternatives are sometimes preferred. Dr Tong found HRT is the most effective treatment of hot flushes, improving symptoms in 80 to 90 per cent of women. Oestrogen deficiency after the meonpause can cause sleep and mood disturbance, hot flushes and frequent urinary tract infections, amongst other things . But she says there are possible . health risks associated with HRT such as links to breast cancer, blood . clots, stroke and cardiovascular problems. Dr Tong said due to these possible . risks, other treatment options may be equally effective such as . behaviour modification and herbal and complimentary medicines. The review states that as many as 50 to 75 per cent of postmenopausal women use herbal options to treat hot flushes, and of the complimentary therapies, soy, red clover and black cohosh have been the most investigated. Soy, found naturally in food and supplements, has shown a reduction in hot flush symptoms ranging between 20 to 55 per cent. Dr Tong recommends it, as well as red clover and black cohosh, as there are no significant adverse side effects associated with them, as long as they are used in women with no history of breast cancer, are not at high risk for breast cancer and are not taking tamoxifen. But she warns herbal medicines are not regulated in many countries, and therefore the contents of a given product may vary from sample to sample. TOG's editor in chief Jason Waugh added: 'Postmenopausal symptoms can be very distressing and it is important to review the advantages and limitations of the non pharmacological treatments available as well as the pharmacological ones. 'Even simple behaviour modification can make a difference to postmenopausal symptoms, including keeping the room temperature cool, wearing layered clothing, relaxation techniques and smoking cessation.' | Women's health specialist Dr Iris Tong agrees HRT is very effective at reducing symptoms .
But says many women are concerned about using it .
And that red clover, soy and black cohosh may help . |
7,818 | 1624e66ac5788155eb6fae9940f12a0edb9229c1 | A newly-released document has revealed that after the top secret mission to kill Osama bin Laden the head of U.S. special forces ordered all photos of his body be either turned in or destroyed. The e-mail was sent by then-Vice Admiral William McRaven two weeks after the secret seek and destroy operation found the Al Qaeda leader. A conservative campaign group which requested its release has claimed the e-mail, which is almost entirely redacted, 'may have been in violation of the law'. Dated May 13, 2011, it said: 'One particular item that I want to emphasize is photos; particularly UBLs remains. At this point -- all photos should have been turned over to the CIA; if you still have them destroy them immediately or get them to the [redacted.]' Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden, along with with members of the national security team, receive an update on the mission against Osama bin Laden in the Situation Room of the White House . Osama bin Laden was killed in a special forces raid on his hideout in Abbottabad in Pakistan . CNN reports the e-mail was obtained by Judicial Watch, which has called for the public release of photos of the raid in Pakistan that killed the al Qaeda leader. The e-mail, which was almost entirely redacted, was released under a Freedom of Information Act request. Days before McRaven's instructions, Judicial Watch had filed a request for such photos, and hours before, they filed a lawsuit, according to the group's president, Tom Fitton. 'Despite there being multiple requests for this information, and a lawsuit for this information, there was a directive that was sent out, to who knows who, to destroy records,' he said. 'It may have been in violation of the law,' he said. It is not clear whether any photos of bin Laden's remains were actually destroyed. Through a spokesman, McRaven declined to comment, CNN reported. Retired General James 'Spider' Marks, a CNN military analyst, says if McRaven ordered photos deleted, he may have been trying to protect operational secrets, sources and methods and trying to make sure no commandos kept any photos or video of the covert raid that they were not authorized to keep. U.S. Marines of Regiment Combat Team 1 watch TV as President Barack Obama announces the death of Osama Bin Laden . The hideout of Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden following his death by U.S. Special Forces in a ground operation in Abbottabad . Found: An aerial view of the Abbottabad compound Bin Laden was hiding in . 'It wouldn't be surprising if they shook them down, and they said 'OK, I want to make sure you don't have something that's hidden away someplace,' ' he said. In the days after the raid, President Barack Obama said he would not authorize the release of any images of bin Laden's corpse, saying it would create a security risk. 'It is important for us to make sure that very graphic photos of somebody who was shot in the head are not floating around as an incitement to additional violence, as a propaganda tool,' the president told CBS news magazine '60 Minutes.' People gather in Times Square New York shortly after the announcement from the President Obama announced that Al Qaida mastermind Osama bin Laden was dead and the United States has his body . Former FBI Assistant Director Tom Fuentes said he would have similar concerns if photos of the terrorist's body were made public. 'You would see those images forever on television,' he said. 'That could lead to more recruitment of future al Qaeda members, making him a martyr.' Fitton is not persuaded by that argument. 'Americans' right to know about what their government is up to should be circumscribed because we don't want to offend terrorists and their sympathizers? That to me is unbelievable,' he said. 'This is a historic raid. People have a right to this information.' But so far, the courts have not sided with Judicial Watch on that question, and the Supreme Court declined to hear the organization's appeal. The U.S. raid on bin Laden's compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan, was conducted on May 2, 2011. | E-mail was obtained by the conservative activist group Judicial Watch .
It orders special forces to turn on or destroy all pictures of the mission .
But Judicial Watch claim order 'may have been in violation of the law' |
26,304 | 4a920193fb4c8bb5ae82f0f4444a27eb37facff5 | Match of the Day pundits Danny Murphy and Martin Keown have been hit with tax bills of up to £2.5million after investing in a suspected tax avoidance scheme. A string of celebrities and sports stars each paid a minimum £100,000 to invest in a movie venture that promised to combine box office hits with tempting tax breaks. Former England and Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy, 38, has been told to pay back £2.5million while ex-Arsenal centre back Martin Keown, 48, also faces a seven-figure bill. HMRC has told them the cash is due by the end of the month. Mr Keown, who writes for Sportsmail, said today: 'I can confirm I did invest in the film-finance scheme Ingenious, which has recently resulted in me receiving a retrospective tax bill. 'I have always paid my taxes and dealt with this new bill swiftly.' Tax Bills: Former footballers turned Match of the Day pundits Danny Murphy, pictured with Joanna Taylor, and Martin Keown have been told by HMRC they a huge amount in unpaid tax, it was revealed today . Gary Lineker, Bob Geldof, Anne Robinson, David and Victoria Beckham, as well as Andrew Lloyd Webber are among around 1,000 household names believed to have put cash in to the same scheme. But they are believed to face having to pay the taxman a total of £1billion after HMRC decided they avoided tax. The Ingenious Film Partners 2 LLP scheme had qualified for tax breaks under rules designed by the last Labour government to stimulate the British film industry. Life of Pi (2012) Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011) The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011) X-Men: First Class (2011) The A-Team (2010) Percy Jackson & the Lightning Thief (2010) Avatar (2009) Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003) Hit movies such as Life of Pi, Avatar and Girl With a Pearl Earring all benefited from their investment and tax relief. But HMRC now argues such schemes were not legitimate investment opportunities but a means of avoiding tax - and have asked the stars to repay them. MailOnline understands neither Mr Murphy or Mr Keown have settled with HMRC yet but are likely to do a deal and pay back at least some of the money tax collectors have demanded. Both are currently unavailable for comment. But source close to Danny Murphy told The Sun: 'He will be on six figures at the Beeb but paying off £2.5million would be a struggle for anyone. The megastars on big wages are able to pay but for others it is proving a huge struggle.' A string of celebrities including David and Victoria Beckham may face having to pay the taxman a total of £1 billion in a dispute over a suspected tax avoidance scheme . Big names: Stars like Gary Lineker and Bob Geldof are also among the 1,000 household names affected . Ingenious used cash invested to help finance some Of Britain's most successful movies under rules devised by the last Labour Government. Murphy and Martin Keown are listed as directors between 2005 and 2011. Other household names who invested in the firm's ventures include the singers Geri Halliwell and Annie Lennox, television presenters Ant and Dec and Davina McCall, and England football manager Roy Hodgson, along with football stars Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerrard. Those who have spoken about their investment believe they have done nothing wrong. Last year Lord Lloyd-Webber said he was advised that he was being 'almost philanthropic by investing in the British film industry, and that this was a scheme to promote British films', adding: 'At no time did I consider it solely a tax scheme.' Proud: Ingenious has said HMRC's demands were 'indiscriminate and unfair' and also said their financing of films like Avatar and Life of Pi created £1billion in taxable income for the UK Treasury . Ingenious has said HMRC's demands were 'indiscriminate and unfair'. A company spokesman said: 'The film partnerships run by Ingenious Media have already generated over £1bn in taxable income for the UK Treasury, with more to come over the lifetime of the films they funded. They helped to bring movies including Avatar, the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, the Girl with a Pearl Earring, Vera Drake, Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz and Hotel Rwanda to the screen and are clearly run for profit. 'Accelerated payment notices are based on retroactive legislation and are inherently unjust. As regards the Tribunal, the hearing is ongoing and Ingenious remains confident of the outcome'. James Robinson, a spokesman for Ingenious Film Partners LLP, has said that a tax tribunal case against HMRC is expected to finish in February. A ruling on whether it counts as tax avoidance will follow later this year. These companies helped pay for box office hits all over the world like Life of Pi, Avatar or Rise of the Planet of the Apes (pictured) The Labour government encouraged the setting up of movie production companies as a way of promoting the British film industry. These businesses helped pay for box office hits all over the world like Life of Pi, Avatar or Rise of the Planet of the Apes. But it was also feared they were being exploited for tax avoidance purposes and HMRC has since pursued investors. The terms of the arrangement allowed the investors - believed to have put in at least £100,000 each - to claim tax relief against virtually the total sum ploughed into the film by the partnership - not just the amount that they had personally put in. The partnerships were normally arranged under a two-for-one basis, meaning that if a celebrity put in £100,000 it would be matched by £200,000 from a film's other backers - but the celebrity could claim tax relief on the full £300,000. The rebate had to be paid back over 15 years, but by investing the cash wisely investors could beat the taxman. The films did not have to qualify as British. Experts believe investors could make more money out of the delayed tax payment than they were eligible to pay. But HMRC is now pursuing members and sent them accelerated payment notices - which were brought in last summer and allows the Treasury to claw back money quickly. They believe the investors have gained an 'unfair tax advantage' and owe the treasury an amount 'relating to the tax advantage that the use of the avoidance scheme tries to achieve', HMRC says. The guidance says 'If the person does not pay the full amount shown in the notice by the date specified we may charge you a penalty'. That is initially five per cent of the total balance and could become at least 20 per cent on top of the bill within a year. Many schemes like Ingenious Film Partners, who have been deemed by HMRC to be producing a tax advantage for members, have asked a court to overturn this decision. But the Treasury reserves the right to hold on to any tax paid back even if they lost because they believe 'if we were successful with our appeal, you would not then pay the amount you owe'. | 1,000 invested around £100,000 in the Ingenious Film Partners scheme .
Television football pundits Danny Murphy and Martin Keown among them .
Mr Murphy said to owe £2.5m and Mr Keown seven-figures in unpaid tax .
Scheme helped finance films Avatar and Life of Pi and offered tax breaks .
David Beckham, Gary Lineker, Wayne Rooney said to be among investors .
Previous Government changed tax rules to help the British film industry .
But HMRC has sent out bills because scheme constituted 'tax avoidance'
Mr Keown said he paid bill swiftly when it arrived and 'always pays taxes' |
265,548 | e3ec0aadf11ff4d56f40fc6283a9ffd4a1c9d1d0 | By . Toni Jones . PUBLISHED: . 12:08 EST, 9 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 13:31 EST, 9 August 2013 . A range of child restraints that trap youngsters to prevent them from moving has appeared in toy stores in Brazil. The brightly coloured collection includes the Baby Trap Chair; a high chair with wrist and ankle manacles with the tagline 'The end of suffering at meal times'. The Happy Heavy Ball is a simple ball and chain for the ankle, albeit coloured bright orange and with a smiley face on the ball. It claims 'No more running around the house'. And the Lovely Straight Jacket, which is exactly as described and suits both tearaway boys and girls, offers to 'keep your children's hands away from your home's beautiful and expensive decoration'. A range of child restraints that trap youngsters have appeared in a toy shop in Brazil . The Lovely Straight Jacket is a unisex design that suits both unruly boys and tearaway girls . The toys might seem a harsh way to discipline unruly offspring, and in fact the 'Control Toys' were only created to promote the Brazilian version of the Super Nanny TV show. But that didn't stop visitors to a toy shop being fooled by the seemingly real display of traps for toddlers. A hilarious video shows parents reacting with horror when they realise what the cheerful boxes contained. The brightly coloured collection includes the Baby Trap Chair; a high chair with wrist and ankle manacles with the tagline 'The end of suffering at meal times' The cheery products are aimed at boys and girls aged 3plus . Copywriter Luis Felipe Figueiredo . helped create the successful ads with Antonio Correa, Art Director for . Sao Paulo advertising agency Publicis. Luis . explains: 'The inspiration for the campaign came from TV show itself. By watching it, we realised that most of those kids seemed like little . devils. They were completely out of control as if they were possessed. The Happy Heavy Ball is a simple ball and chain for the ankle, albeit coloured bright orange and with a smiley face on the ball. It claims 'No more running around the house' The toys might seem a harsh way to discipline unruly offspring, and in fact the 'Control Toys' were only created to promote the Brazilian version of the Super Nanny TV show . 'So we put ourselves in parent's place for a minute thinking what we could do to control them and the idea came as a joke. Then we thought, well it's a joke but maybe it's what we need to get their attention. In fact, we even bet that some parents would consider the possibility of buying those crazy toys. Also, it couldn't have a better place to talk to that target than toy stores.'The campaign became TV spots, where we pretended to be selling those products and also print ads with the same approach. Then the packages were placed in the stores of one of the biggest toy store chains in Brazil, where we got those reactions on the video.'In the end, Super Nanny TV show ratings were a lot beyond than expected, making the client really happy with the results. But most importantly, it showed that sometimes to sell a product, a service or a TV show, betting on daring ideas indeed works.' Visitors to the toy shop were fooled by the seemingly real display of traps for toddlers . The creators say that the inspiration for the campaign came from TV show itself as the children featured seemed like little devils . | The collection of 'Control Toys' has appeared in a toy store in Brazil .
The range includes the Happy, Heavy Ball and the Lovely Straight Jacket .
Shop display is actually a stunt to promote a new series of Super nanny .
Hilarious video shows unaware shoppers outraged at the products . |
214,262 | a178c43bd7642bbb279487407042a42d8a221c66 | (CNN) -- Opener Shane Watson hammered a world record 15 sixes in a one-day innings as he helped Australia defeat Bangladesh by nine wickets in their second one-day international in Dhaka. Watson, who went on to make a career-best 185 not out, also smashed 15 fours in his 96-ball innings, as Australia needed just 26 overs to reach 232-1 in reply the hosts' 229-7 in their 50 overs. The all-rounder bettered by three the previous sixes mark of 12 held by Xavier Marshall of the West Indies against Canada in 2008. The 29-year-old also broke the record for the most runs scored via boundaries (150) in a single innings, beating the previous mark of 126 set by South African Herschelle Gibbs. Watson's innings was also the highest by an Australian in one-day internationals, beating the 181 not out by Matthew Hayden. "It was a nice day today as everything came off," Watson told reporters. "I had no idea of the sixes record. "I was pretty tired and didn't want to run too much. It was hot and humid, so I tried to limit my running and it worked out nicely." Australian captain Michael Clarke added: "That's probably the best innings I've ever seen. He hit the ball so cleanly from the start." The third and final one-day international will be played in Dhaka on Wednesday with the visitors unbeatable with a 2-0 lead. | Opener Shane Watson hammers a world record 15 sixes in a one-day innings .
Watson beats the record of 12 set by Xavier Marshall of the West Indies in 2008 .
Watson's score of 185 not out also a record one-day total by an Australian .
The 29-year-old helped Australia defeat Bangladesh by nine wickets in Dhaka . |
150,183 | 4e2d0a0c440987969e68474cf9e69a13900c6968 | Rickie Lambert is expected to come up against a defender who once cheered him from the stands at Southampton when Liverpool face Bournemouth in the Capital One Cup. Baily Cargill had a season ticket at St Mary’s and celebrated on the pitch after Lambert helped secure his club promotion to the Premier League with a 4-0 win over Coventry in April 2012. The 19-year-old, on Southampton’s books between 2006-08, is aiming to inflict misery on his hero at Goldsands Stadium however, in a quarter-final tie that is shaping up to be huge for Brendan Rodgers. Baily Cargill (left) had a season ticket at Southampton and celebrated on the pitch when the club won promotion to the Premier League in 2012 . Cargill could come up against Rickie Lambert and Adam Lallana, whom he used to cheer from the stands . The 19-year-old defender (left) has played every minute of Bournemouth's league cup run . Cargill is yet to feature in the Championship, but has played every minute of Bournemouth’s League Cup run so far and is hoping for the chance to test himself against Lambert and fellow ex-Saint Adam Lallana. ‘When I was a scholar I’d go to every home game and I watched Southampton get promoted to the Premier League. I was on the pitch that day,’ he says. ‘My family are all mad Saints fans too, especially my little brother. They’ll enjoy watching me if I play against the likes of Lambert and Lallana.’ He adds: ‘It’s a big match for them and a big match for us. It’s probably come at a good time because we’re on a good run of form – we haven’t lost in 12 games – and Liverpool obviously aren’t doing as well as they’d like to be doing. Liverpool need the win and we’d obviously like to win too.’ If manager Eddie Howe does select Cargill, it would represent a remarkable personal progression. Little more than a year ago Cargill was facing Braintree during a loan spell at Welling in the Conference. Rickie Lambert moved to Liverpool in the summer and has endured a difficult start to life on Merseyside . Lambert (centre) spent five hugely successful seasons at Southampton between 2009-14 . Rather than stick to Under 21 football, he elected to mature among the gnarled battlegrounds of non-League. ‘Experiencing that side of the game was definitely a massive help in my development,’ he says. ‘It will stand me in good stead for the rest of my career. ‘We played Braintree away in only my second game and they had a striker called Jordan Cox. They played a lot of long balls and in that game I went up for at least 20 headers – that was a tough physical battle. There were a few arms flying about. ‘I’ve come a long way since then and definitely got better as a player. If you had told me when I was playing Braintree away that I’d have a chance of facing Liverpool the following season I’d never have believed you.’ Eddie Howe's Bournemouth take on Liverpool on Wednesday for a place in the Capital One Cup semi-final . Adam Lallana joined Lambert in making the move from St Mary's to Anfield in the summer . Impressive performances against Exeter, Northampton, and Cardiff – with three clean sheets – preceded a 2-1 victory over West Bromwich Albion in the last round as Victor Anichebe, Brown Ideye and Saido Berahino all failed to score. That earned Cargill a call-up to Aidy Bothroyd’s England Under 20 side for the match against Canada in November – and he scored a powerful header in the 2-2 draw. Manchester United striker James Wilson featured in that youth international and was selected by Louis Van Gaal to start up front against Liverpool on Sunday. ‘I like seeing other lads my age do well, because it makes you realise as long as you get an opportunity and take it then you should play,’ Cargill says. ‘The gaffer is terrific. The training sessions are always really good and with him being a centre-half he can give me tips. He is really keen on you developing into the best player you can be.' | Bournemouth take on Liverpool in the Capital one Cup quarter-final .
Baily Cargill was on Southampton's books between 2006-08 .
The defender also had a season ticket holder at Saints and celebrated on the pitch when the club won promotion to the Premier League in 2012 . |
32,041 | 5b323394a565fe9a0603dc4a316e9bd2fe7d1b7e | The rebel seizure of the capital of the volatile Central African Republic has sent the president packing and prompted the nation's suspension from the continent's top political entity. President Francois Bozize fled and ended up in Cameroon after rebels took Bangui on Sunday, Cameroon state TV said Monday, reporting a government communique. The ousted president sought refuge in Cameroon, where he is hoping to move to another country, the report says. The African Union -- which represents nations across the continent -- took the action against the Central African Republic after the insurgents captured Bangui. In a communique published on the AU's website, the union said the rebels violated a January cease-fire agreement and peace deal that had called for rebels to form a unity government under the nation's president. Seleka rebels call Bozize the former president . A written statement from an official with the Seleka rebels referred to Bozize as the country's former president and urged residents of the landlocked country to remain calm and prepare themselves to welcome rebel forces. A wave of unrest started in December, when the Seleka rebel coalition launched its offensive. The rebels accused Bozize of reneging on a peace deal and demanded that he step down. The rebel group, based in the country's north, managed to take control of several towns and move toward Bangui in the following weeks. The Seleka and the government brokered a new peace deal in January, agreeing to form a unity government led by Bozize. But that peace deal also fell apart. Swift world condemnation . France condemns rebels' "use of force" to capture Bangui and said any political transition in the former French colony should be governed by the January peace deal, according to Philippe Lalliot, spokesman for France's Foreign Ministry. British Foreign Secretary William Hague, speaking in neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo, expressed concern over reports of casualties and looting. He called for restraint and a "swift return to democratic rule." Catherine Ashton, the European Union's foreign policy chief, urged "all parties to cease hostilities immediately" and called on "armed groups to respect and protect the civilian population." She urged rival parties to engage in negotiations. "Violent or unconstitutional changes of government remain unacceptable," she said. | Bozize is hoping to jump to another country from Cameroon .
The African Union has suspended the Central African Republic .
Britain, France and the European Union express concern . |
167,897 | 652762a8707afe728a8afde96dc6a022d7362bce | These are the horrific images that hammer home the very real dangers of crystal meth. But they are not the familiar compare-and-contrast images of junkies who have lost their looks. Instead, they show the huge risks involved with making methamphetamine either at home or on the road. The photos, which include a car in flames and an exploded house, have been released as researchers warn of a crude new method of manufacturing meth that poses a risk even to those who stay away from the drug. In flames: A car lies on the side or a Tennessee road after an explosion occurred due to a passenger making 'shake-and-bake' methamphetamine. The crude new method of making meth is posing a risk even to those who never smoke the drug . Charred remains: The accident took place outside Clarksville. So-called shake-and-bake meth is produced by combining raw, unstable ingredients in a two-litre bottle . It is filling hospitals with thousands . of uninsured burn patients requiring millions of dollars in advanced . treatment - a burden so costly that it is contributing to the closure of . some burns units. So-called 'shake-and-bake' meth is produced by combining raw, unstable ingredients in a two-litre bottle. But if the person mixing the noxious . brew makes the slightest error, such as removing the cap too soon or . accidentally perforating the plastic, the concoction can explode, . searing flesh and causing permanent disfigurement, blindness or even . death. A survey of key hospitals in . America's most-active meth states showed that up to a third of patients . in some burns units were hurt while making meth, and most were . uninsured. The average treatment costs $6,000 per . day, but the average meth patient's hospital stay costs $130,000 - 60 . per cent more than other burns patients, according to a study by doctors . in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The influx of patients is . overwhelming hospitals and becoming a major factor in the closure of . some burns wards, according to the Associated Press report. Highly explosive: Firemen tackle a blaze from a shake-and-bake meth lab explosion in Union, Missouri, in 2010 . Tell-tale signs: Police found these shake-and-bake meth ingredients inside the house in Union . At least seven burns units across the . U.S. have shut down over the past six years, partly due to consolidation . but also because of the cost of treating uninsured patients, many of . whom are connected to methamphetamine. Burns experts agree that the annual . cost to taxpayers is well into the tens if not hundreds of millions of . dollars, although it is impossible to determine a more accurate number . because so many meth users lie about the cause of their burns. Larger meth labs have been bursting into flames for years, usually in basements, backyard sheds or other private spaces. But those were fires that people . could usually escape. Using the shake-and-bake method, drug-makers . typically hold the flammable concoction up close, causing burns from the . waist to the face. Jason Grellner of the Franklin County, Missouri, Sheriff's Department, said: 'You're holding a flame-thrower in your hands.' Also known as the 'one-pot' approach, . the method is popular because it uses less pseudoephedrine - a common . component in some cold and allergy pills. It also yields meth in minutes rather . than hours, and is cheaper and easier to conceal. Meth cooks can carry . all the ingredients in a ruck sack and mix them in a bathroom stall or . the seat of a car. The improvised system first emerged . several years ago, partly in response to attempts by many states to . limit or forbid over-the-counter access to pseudoephedrine. Since then, the shake-and-bake recipe has spread to become the method of choice. The interior of a home in Clarksville, Tennessee, damaged by a shake-and-bake meth lab explosion last month . A danger to neighbours: The damaged exterior of the same home . By 2010, about 80 per cent of labs . busted by the federal Drug Enforcement Administration were using . shake-and-bake recipes, said Pat Johnakin, a DEA agent specialising in . meth. So instead of a large lab that . supplies many users, there are now more people making meth for their . personal use. The consequences are showing up in emergency rooms and . burns wards. Dr Michael Smock, director of the . burns unit at Mercy Hospital St Louis, said: 'From what we see on the . medical side, that's the primary reason the numbers seem to be going up - . greater numbers of producers making smaller batches.' It is impossible to know precisely . how many people are burned while making shake-and-bake meth. Some avoid . medical treatment, and no one keeps exact track of those who go to the . hospital. But many burns centres in the most . active meth-producing states report sharp spikes in the number of . patients linked to meth. And experts say the trend goes well beyond . those facilities. In Indiana, about three-quarters of . meth busts now involve shake-and-bake. And injuries are rising sharply, . mostly because of burns, said Niki Crawford of the Indiana State Police . Meth Suppression Team. Highly addictive: Known as 'ice', methamphetamine crystals are smoked through a pipe . Indiana had 89 meth-related injuries . during the ten-year period ending in 2009. The state has had 70 in the . last 23 months, mostly from shake-and-bake labs, Ms Crawford said. What's more, meth-related burns often sear some of the body's most sensitive areas - the face and hands. Dr Lucy Wibbenmeyer, of the burns centre at the University of Iowa, said: . 'I don't think a lot of these patients will be able to re-enter . society. They'll need rehab therapy, occupational therapy, which is very . expensive.' Researchers at the University of Iowa . found that people burned while making meth typically have longer . hospital stays and more expensive bills than other burn patients - bills . that are frequently absorbed by the hospital since a vast majority of . the meth-makers lack insurance. Doctors at Bronson Methodist Hospital . in Kalamazoo, Michigan, performed a five-year study of meth patients in . the early 2000s, then a follow-up study in 2009-2010. Their investigation concurred with . the Iowa findings. The Kalamazoo study also found that meth burn victims . were more likely to suffer damage to the lungs and windpipe, spent more . time on ventilators and needed surgery more often. That report also found that only about . 10 per cent of meth patients had private insurance coverage, compared . with 59 percent of other patients. And in many cases, their injuries . leave them unable to work. | Crude manufacturing method is filling hospitals with uninsured burns victims .
Burden is so costly it is contributing to the closure of U.S. burns units . |
9,771 | 1bacf68f049bed1e61bc6bfb4e8380612e6df87d | Tragic: Alexander Denk, 26, from Munich, was found eight days after he died in his room in Cardiff . A university student lay dead in his room for eight days until his worried family raised the alarm. Alexander Denk, 26, was living with eight University of Wales undergraduates in a shared house when he mysteriously died in early November. But he went undetected for more than a week until his family became concerned that they had not heard from him. Police forced their way into his locked room in Roath, Cardiff, on November 8 and found his body. The German-born student was last seen on October 31, an inquest heard. Due to the time lapse, pathologist Gareth Leopold said the circumstances of death were unclear. He told Cardiff Coroner's Court Mr Denk could have been a victim of Sudden Adult Death Syndrome. Drinking too much caffeine to stay awake could have also been a factor, Mr Leopold said, adding: 'Consuming a large amount of caffeine has been known to cause death by a condition called arrhythmia, in which the heart beats too fast.' Sudden Adult Death Syndrome, known in medical circles as Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndrome, is the term given to an unexplained heart attack in healthy adults, also linked to so-called 'cot deaths'. Alexander moved to Cardiff from Munich last year to study for his masters degree in international business management at the University of South Wales. Undetected: Mr Denk lived in a house in Roath, Cardiff, with other students . Unexplained: Pathologist Gareth Leopold said the delay meant the cause of death is difficult to determine . Hard worker: His father, Raimund, paid tribute to Alexander, who worked hard on his MA at the University of Wales and loved sports . His father Raimund last saw his son at home in Munich in August, and spoke to him on the phone on October 29. He said: 'I knew he had a lot of pressure in relation to his studies and I told him he should take care of himself. He was very ambitious.' Coroner Thomas Atherton recorded an open verdict. | Alexander Denk, 26, lived in shared house in Cardiff with 8 undergraduates .
Munich-born student's cause of death unclear due to delay, inquest heard .
Pathologist suggested Sudden Adult Death Syndrome or too much caffeine .
Father paid tribute to son who 'worked hard' on his University of Wales MA . |
145,731 | 486f0c658114ffbe61f10dc8ebef18095bef0356 | By . Lizzie Edmonds . Freeze: The Department of Health has suggested it wants to call an end to NHS pay rises (library image) The Government is today facing threats of industrial action after signalling it wants to call a halt to NHS pay rises. Instead of using funding set aside for a 1 per cent pay rise for staff, the Department of Health (DoH) is proposing it is spent on the modernisation of pay structures. In its submission to the NHS pay review body, the department said the NHS was facing the biggest financial challenge in its history. The submission read: 'Despite real terms growth in its budget in successive years, it needs to continue to secure improved value from the taxpayers' investment, if it is to meet the growing pressures it faces in the years to come both from an ageing and growing population and the need to improve the quality of care provide.' Unions reacted with anger, saying that even raising the prospect of a pay freeze would demoralise staff. Rehana Azam, national officer of the GMB trade union, said: 'GMB members in the NHS are already totally fed up with this Government's cuts to NHS services and jobs, which staff know is putting patient wellbeing at risk. 'If the Government now wants to attack NHS staff pay while offering tax cuts to married couples it will be the final straw that will lead to calls for industrial action.' Peter Carter, general secretary of the Royal College of Nursing, said: 'It is demoralising for nursing staff to discover that while senior managers have enjoyed a pay increase of 13% since 2009, the Government are asking frontline staff to take another pay freeze to save the NHS money. 'It is completely unfair to say a pay increase of just 1%, following years of real-terms pay cuts, will prevent employers from recruiting more nurses and put patient safety at risk. 'It is simply wrong to imply that regular pay rises are awarded to NHS staff simply for time served, when this is not the case. 'Increments are only paid when a nurse can demonstrate their experience and skills have improved. It is the responsibility of employers to ensure this appraisal system is working properly.' Phil Gray, chief executive of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, said: 'This is a very disappointing move that shows contempt for the principle of working together in partnership to produce a fair deal for NHS staff. Fight back: Unions say the Government's call for a pay freeze for NHS staff would lead to calls for industrial action (library image) 'Those hard-working and dedicated professionals have suffered a real-terms pay cut of up to 12% in recent years and only stood to gain 1% from April. 'The Government should step back from this ill-judged position and allow next year's pay rise to go ahead.' The health department said the dilemma is 'either pay staff more, accepting that this may do little to improve the quality of care for patients and is likely to restrict the number of staff employers can afford to employ, or, to reform contracts to enable employers to use their pay bill, as part of their overall employment offer, to maintain safe staffing levels, with stronger links to performance, quality and productivity'. It claimed the 1 per cent pay rise was not affordable alongside the current NHS system which sees incremental salary rises linked to length of service and performance. Announcement: George Osborne said public sector pay rises in 2015/16 'will be limited to an average of up to 1 per cent' in his June spending review . In his spending review in June, Chancellor George Osborne said public sector pay rises in 2015/16 'will be limited to an average of up to 1 per cent'. But he also said the Government would reform 'antiquated' systems of automatic pay progression that were seeing some salaries rise by 7 per cent 'regardless of performance'. He told the commons: 'Progression pay can at best be described as antiquated; at worst, it's deeply unfair to other parts of the public sector who don't get it and to the private sector who have to pay for it. 'So we will end automatic progression pay in the civil service by 2015-16. And we are working to remove automatic pay rises simply for time served in our schools, NHS, prisons and police.' The DoH quoted the Chancellor's words in its submission to the pay review bodies, and said the national medical pay frameworks meant rises worth around £200 million a year. It said: 'This is out of step with our wider policy on public sector pay and the ambitions the Chancellor set out in the spending round.' 'The 1 per cent that the Government has made available for pay in the spending round would, in our view, be best deployed in supporting the modernisation of national pay frameworks. 'In particular, that the reform of medical contracts should seek to improve the quality of patient care and therefore outcomes by ensuring there is a better balance between pay, performance, and productivity rather than time served. 'Substantial reforms to progression pay will be taken forward or are already under way across the public sector. 'The priority for this pay round therefore, should be support for continued reform of national contracts so that they deliver improvements in performance and productivity, are affordable and fit for purpose. 'Putting patients at the heart of everything the NHS does means ensuring services are available seven days a week and that staff are rewarded for what they do for patients, not time served.' | Department of Health says money for pay rises should be spent on reform .
Says it would lead to 'stronger links to performance and quality'
Unions reacted with anger, and said a pay freeze would 'demoralise staff'
GMB said plan is 'final straw that will lead to calls for industrial action' |
95,510 | 06c046b6e26dc9586b1fc37ab3e9ddf03f9f0e50 | She says she doesn’t feel a day over 70, but the oldest person in Britain celebrated her 112th birthday today. Gladys Hooper said the secret to her longevity is ‘living a straight life’ and keeping active. She has only just taken the title of Britain’s oldest person after the death of 114-year-old Ethel Lang on Thursday, who was who the last person in the UK born during the reign of Queen Victoria. On finding out the news, Mrs Hooper, who lives in the Isle of Wight, said: ‘I am very surprised, I thought I was just the oldest person on the island.’ Scroll down for video . Milestone: Britain's oldest woman Grace Hooper turned 112 today, left, and right, Mrs Hooper at 21 . Mrs Hooper, who has a son, four grandchildren and six-great-grandchildren, added: ‘I have always been busy, I prefer being busy than being idle. ‘I have always lived a straight life, never done stupid things, I have never gone beyond the limit. I have always been active, I think always being active keeps you young. I have done what I wanted to do and helped others as much as I could. I do not feel anything like the age I am, I do not feel any different to when I was 70.’ The great-grandmother has certainly achieved a lot in her lifetime. Born in 1903 in Dulwich, south-east London, and brought up in Rottingdean, near Brighton, she became a concert pianist in London and often performed with bands in dance halls. In the early 1920s, she also started what is thought to have been one of the first car hire firms, Autodrive, and turned down a request from the founder of Hertz to be his managing director. Gladys Hooper looks at previous years' birthday cards, with three generations of her family - her son Derek (top left), granddaughter Christine (top right) and great-grandsons Matthew (front left) and David (front right) She later ran Kingscliff House School, which is now Brighton College. The theme of aviation has also run through her lifetime. She was born the same year the Wright brothers built the first successful aeroplane, and was close friends with Amy Johnson, the pioneering aviator who was the first woman to fly solo from England to Australia. Her husband Leslie, whom she married in 1922, was a pilot in the Royal Flying Corps in the First World War and in the RAF in the Second World War. Her 84-year-old son Derek Hermiston is a retired pilot. After her husband died in 1977, Mrs Hooper moved to the Isle of Wight and now lives in an apartment in her son’s house in Ryde, a town on the coast. His wife Veronica, 68, said: ‘She has done an awful lot. She is a very strong lady, a very amazing person.’ She added: ‘We are very proud of her and we have watched her go on and on, she doesn’t change. Mrs Hooper, dressed as Red Riding Hood aged four, left, and sitting on her father, William Nash's knee, right . ‘She lost her last sister three months ago, the youngest one. There were six of them altogether – five girls and one boy – she was the oldest and the longest. ‘Gladys told me that she had a very difficult birth, she came out with a misshapen head and the midwife said “I do not think she will do much”. But she was brilliant at maths and music and proved the midwife wrong.’ Mr Hermiston said she is still mentally very fit, adding: ‘I am very proud of her, she does very well since she was 100. She is a really nice person who has done a lot of good things for others during her war service.’ Members of her family travelled from Brighton, Derby and even Canada to be with her for her big day. Mrs Hooper said her special treat for the day would be to have ‘a nice birthday cake’. The oldest person in the world is thought to be Misao Okawa, a Japanese woman who turned 116 in March last year. | Gladys Hooper said the secret to her longevity is ‘living a straight life’
The new oldest person in Britain celebrated her 112th birthday today .
Taken the title after the death of 114-year-old Ethel Lang on Thursday .
Mrs Hooper has a son, four grandchildren and six-great-grandchildren . |
217,640 | a5c57ba91b8c16df7eb0cc76bc280e76e967550c | NEW YORK (CNN) -- Even the most banal question is met with an amusing and thought-provoking response from Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie, the two quipsters behind "Flight of the Conchords." Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie are a struggling musical duo in "Flight of the Conchords." "What's your favorite color?" went an innocuous query. "Transparent," replied Clement. "Umm ... bluish-red," said McKenzie. Wait, isn't that ... purple? No matter. Absurd comedy comes as easily to the duo as useless advice flows from Murray, their always-dressed-in-brown band manager (played by Rhys Darby) on their hit HBO program. Five minutes in an elevator, a hallway, or an interview room with Clement and McKenzie, and a scene worthy of inclusion on the show effortlessly unfolds. Watch the group talk about the price of fame » . Of course the native New Zealanders possess more smarts than their on-screen personas, two scrappy, clueless musicians trying -- and failing miserably -- to break into the music business in New York City. But the resemblance is as clear as the giant, idolizing blue eyes of their lone fan, Mel (Kristen Schaal). "Most of the stories are based on things that happened to us," says McKenzie. "We take one element, and then we kind of exaggerate it or twist it." Consider the series' second episode of the new season (which started earlier this month), where Bret and Jemaine squabbled over Bret's "extravagant" purchase of a new coffee mug (it cost $2.79). Could a similar scenario have played out when the pair lived together as university students in their homeland more than 10 years ago? "We were very poor," recalls Clement. "Sometimes in our flat we would have so little money that we were trying to think of schemes, like how can we make some money today so that we can have some dinner." With the economy taking a turn for the worst in recent months, "Flight of the Conchords" now seems more relevant. "We basically never set out to have the show be a credit crunch show," says co-executive producer and co-creator James Bobin. "But it seems the world has caught up with us." And CNN caught up with Clement and McKenzie (Bobin, too) to talk about writing silly songs, the sweet tooth of success and to find out why Aussies -- such as CNN's interviewer -- are always in the cross hairs. The following is an edited version of the interview. CNN: The show is a big hit around the world. Do you consider yourselves worthy cultural ambassadors for New Zealand? Jemaine Clement: I think in some ways our characters are typical of New Zealanders. New Zealand has a reputation as being one of the most boring peoples of the world. You don't know of that? CNN: I wouldn't agree with that. Bret McKenzie: Friendly. I think they're famous for being friendly. Clement: Well, I've heard boring. CNN: As an Australian, I would like to know why you make fun of Australians so much. McKenzie: Because we find them funny. Clement: We've toured in Australia and ... it always struck me when we went out to lunch with people how many times we would be made fun of because of our accents. So we stored up all that resentment and we waited years ... McKenzie: And unleashed it. Clement: We're giving it back to the Australians who made fun of us. CNN: James, what is it like to work with these two? James Bobin: It's a pleasure, obviously. We've been friends for years now. ... The show's incredibly hard work because obviously we do music and comedy at the same time and that's quite a challenge. But they're both very hardworking so it makes it easy. CNN: What's it like on set? I imagine when the cameras start rolling that a lot of what happens is improvised. Bobin: To a certain degree, yeah. We have a script that we like ... so we obviously try to nail that first. And from that position we just play with it a little bit and see where we go. Especially with Rhys, because Rhys is such a brilliant improviser and these guys and Rhys do so well together in those scenes in the band meetings. Often they go way off script. Clement: Yeah, we try and write the script with parts that we know we can improvise off. So we leave some things open-ended. McKenzie: It's between 17 and 18 percent improvised. Clement: But this interview is a hundred percent. CNN: A lot of the musical numbers from the first season you had in stock before you even made the TV show ... Clement: The songs in the second season are not worse than the songs in the first season. CNN: That wasn't going to be my question! How challenging was it to come up with a whole new set of songs? Clement: Well, I think that was the fun part of the show because playing music is fun. Bobin: Also, we had some stories in mind so this time round we could write songs to fit with the stories -- which was kind of nice because last year it was a bit harder to squeeze the songs into a storyline. It just made for very strange situations. Clement: Yeah, and having the songs in the beginning sometimes leads to boring storylines because all the songs are about girls. So when we have a whole lot of storylines about girls our episodes have to be about girls. So we could go off that a bit this time. CNN: How confident are you both in your abilities as musicians? McKenzie: 24 to 27 percent. Clement: I'm 24. He's 27. McKenzie: Combined we're mediocre. CNN: How are you enjoying the fame that's come from the success? McKenzie: Oh it's lovely. You get free desserts. CNN: Just free desserts? McKenzie: Free drinks. Sometimes some free shoes. Clement: Sometimes people invade your privacy. McKenzie: Strangers talk to you. Clement: But balanced against the free desserts, it evens out. CNN: Have you encountered any Mel-like fans? McKenzie: A lot of fans like to come up and say they're the real Mel. Or "you've actually got two fans." CNN: Did you know someone who was like Murray? Is he based on a friend or a stereotype? Clement: In some ways, our real manager in New Zealand. McKenzie: She's very maternal. I think Murray's quite a maternal figure. Clement: She gives us lists that are overly detailed. And when we were going to a new country she'd be very worried for our safety. Not that long ago Tenacious D [Jack Black's band] came to New Zealand and we were asked to open for them, and she didn't know who they were, even though they're the biggest musical comedy act ever. And that carries through to Murray. CNN: How surprised were you by the success of the show? McKenzie: I'm surprised by the diversity of the fans. Like there are people who are our age, which makes sense, and then there are people in their 70s who love the show. And then there are children who love the show. There's a scene in the show where I watch television in a box. I get a box sent over from New Zealand. And my friend's son, he watches TV sitting in a box. And he's 9. It's great. HBO, like CNN, is a unit of Time Warner. | "Flight of the Conchords" is offbeat musical-comedy duo and HBO series .
Members Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie are struggling musicians .
The New Zealanders are enjoying fame, particularly the "free desserts" |
229,375 | b5022ca53030ae9dd725a9704ed28de5cf06515f | Tokyo (CNN) -- Japan's government will offer transportation and other assistance to those in a buffer zone around the stricken Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant, a top official said Friday, noting these people have been put in a "difficult" situation. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yukio Edano said authorities are encouraging people living between 20 and 30 kilometers (12.5 and 19 miles) from the plant to leave the area voluntarily because of the challenges they "have faced in their daily lives." Those who live closer already have been ordered to evacuate because of dangerously high levels of radiation. A primary challenge for that region, he said, has had to do with commerce -- namely, the difficulty in getting needed materials in and out of the area. This is not a mandatory evacuation, Edano said. Still, he said, he could not rule out future mandatory evacuations if radiation rises to unsafe levels. Other nations, including the United States and England, have urged their citizens to stay 80 kilometers (50 miles) or more away from the embattled power plant over radiation concerns. Japan has urged those within a 20-kilometer radius to evacuate and those within 30 kilometers to try and stay indoors. Still, even those well outside the plant area are being affected by the radioactive emissions. Traces of radioactive iodine tied to the plant have been detected as far away as Sweden and the United States. Authorities have said those levels are far below what's considered harmful to humans. Two Japanese citizens -- one from Nagano and the other from Saitama, both 200 kilometers or further from Fukushima -- traveling to China were taken to a hospital after showing exceedingly high levels of radiation, China's state-run Xinhua news agency reported. A spokesman for Japan's embassy in China said Friday that the two are "fine" having left the hospital and joined their tour group. "Abnormal radiation" was also detected earlier on a Japanese ship, Xinhua said. But in Japan, radioactive materials detected in water, food and elsewhere have had a major impact. The number of banned food items is growing regularly, and has affected not only consumers, but farmers who rely on the products to make a living. One chief concern is the presence of radioactive substances in tap water. Four sites in Ibaraki Prefecture showed radiation levels above what is considered safe for babies to drink, according to government data released Friday. The affected facilities provide water for residents in the cities of Tokaimura and Hitachi. The results, from samples taken on Thursday, showed between a low of 119 becquerels of radioactive iodine per kilogram of water to a high of 230 becquerels of the same radioactive substance. Anything higher than that 100 becquerels is considered unsafe for infants under 1 year old, though the levels remain under the 300 becquerel threshold for adults. Tokyo's waterworks bureau reported Friday, based on tests conducted that morning, that there were 51 becquerels of radioactive iodine per kilogram of tap water. The previous day, Tokyo Gov. Shintaro Ishihara lifted the previously announced recommendation that babies not drink tap water after tests from Tuesday night showed levels of radiation more than twice the limit for babies. There was also positive news in the Chiba Prefecture Friday, where all five water treatment facilities had levels of radioactive iodine less than 100 becquerels per kilogram of tap water. The previous day, two plants in Chiba had reported high levels. The fate of Japan's fishing industry is also a hot topic, given fears that spreading radiation might poison fish or scare off customers. The Tokyo Electric Power Co., which operates the Fukushima Daiichi plant, said its latest readings from Thursday morning show levels of radioactive iodine 104 times higher than normal in the waters 330 meters off the facility's Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 4 reactors. "I don't know when this will end," said Seiji Nakzato, 75, a fisherman from Tokyo. "Business is down. People don't want to buy fish because they're afraid of radiation." Still, this is marked progress compared to the previous day's reading, when levels were 147 times higher than normal. The latest results also showed levels of the radioactive iodine were 28 times normal some 10 kilometers south of the plant and 13 times higher about 16 kilometers away. Agriculture in Japan has also been threatened in this crisis, with tests showing radioactive materials at levels exceeding legal limits in 12 types of vegetables grown near the nuclear plant, according to the nation's health ministry. Prime Minister Naoto Kan has also asked Ibaraki Prefecture to suspend shipments of raw milk and parsley, according to Edano. The government of Fukushima Prefecture has asked residents not to eat leafy vegetables. And on Friday, a Chinese government agency posted on its website that it had banned dairy products, vegetables, fruits and acquatic animals and products from the Japanese prefectures of Fukushima, Tochigi, Gunma, Ibaraki and Chiba. They join several other countries, including the United States, in prohibiting the import of certain food products from Japan. Radiation levels in the food would not cause health problems right away, Edano said, but if they rise, they may reach levels risky to human health. The decision to prohibit produce sales is another potentially devastating blow to a part of northeast Japan hit by the earthquake and tsunami. Fukushima Prefecture ranks among Japan's top producers of fruits, vegetables and rice. Ibaraki Prefecture, south of Fukushima, supplies Tokyo with a significant amount of fruits and vegetables, and is the third-largest pork producer in the nation. | NEW: Two Japanese hospitalized in China due to radiation are "fine," a spokesman says .
High radiation is detected in Ibaraki Prefecture water; water safe in Tokyo, Chiba .
Radiation in seawater is 104 times above normal, a drop from the previous day .
An official says Japan will provide shuttles for those within 20-to-30 km of the plant . |
171,311 | 69bc6d924d484bf6946429329a00a52e56e34a3a | Lassie the dog nuzzled and licked Able Seaman John Cowan - who was presumed dead following an attack off Lyme Regis, Dorset, in the First World War - until he stirred and was brought back to life . The little-known tale of a dog named Lassie who brought a sailor back to life by licking his face during the First World War has emerged 100 years later. The bodies of seven sailors had been laid out in the cellar of a port-side pub in Lyme Regis, Dorset, following a German torpedo attack on a British battleship in the English Channel on New Year's Eve, 1914. All were presumed dead until the landlord's rough-haired collie dog entered the basement and sat alongside the motionless body of one sailor, Able Seaman John Cowan. She proceeded to lick his face and nuzzle him for 30 minutes until, amazingly, he began to stir and rescuers rushed to his side. He went on to make a full recovery. The incredible act sounds like it could be a storyline straight from the 1950s TV series Lassie. Some people even believe the Lyme Regis dog provided English author Eric Knight with the inspiration to write his 1938 novel Lassie Come Home, which paved the way for the subsequent TV show and film. However, Lassie aficionados say there is no record of the writer being aware of the story. Now the remarkable story has been revealed in full by the late historian Rodney Legg in his book, Dorset in the First World War, which has been published posthumously. A total of 547 men perished when the battleship HMS Formidable came under attack from an enemy submarine during an exercise in Lyme Bay. About 200 men, including Able Seaman Cowan, survived the blasts from the torpedoes. Two lifeboats were lowered into the water before a loss of power prevented any more being used. While the ship was sinking, the chaplain, the Rev George Brooke Robinson, went below the decks to fetch cigarettes for the men, only to end up drowning. The following day one lifeboat washed up on the beach at Lyme Regis and those on board, who were barely alive, were taken to the nearby Pilot Boat Inn. Landlord Tommy Atkins turned his beer cellar into a makeshift mortuary and the dead, including Seaman Cowan, were placed there before the bodies could be taken away by officials. His dog, a cross-bred collie, had become used to licking the face of Mr Atkins' wife to rouse her from regular epileptic fits. She began to nuzzle the face and hands of Seaman Cowan until he eventually stirred. After recovering from his ordeal, the sailor visited members of staff at the pub and Lassie to thank them for saving his life. David Tucker, the director at the Lyme Regis Museum, said: 'The Formidable was torpedoed 20 miles off Start Point in Devon. The ship was hit at 2am on New Year's Day and then again at 4.40am before it went down. 'There was a crew of almost 800 and some of the survivors were recovered by a fishing boat out of Brixham. 'About 40 men managed to get into a small lifeboat which spent 23 hours in the sea before it reached Lyme Regis. Seven of the men died on board from exposure. 'A local policeman arranged for the survivors to go to the Pilot Boat inn about 50 metres away and they were given dry clothes, brandy and cigarettes. Lassie was a cross-bred collie owned by the landlord of The Pilot Boat (above) in Lyme Regis, Dorset, where sailors were brought back after a torpedo attack off the coast in 1914. Seaman Cowan was presumed dead . Many people believe the tale of the Lyme Regis dog inspired Eric Knight's 1938 novel Lassie Come Home which paved the way for the subsequent TV show and 2005 film (above). However, others dismiss this idea . 'The seven bodies were taken down into the cellar, including that of John Cowan. 'Lassie wouldn't leave Cowan's side and licked him and licked him until he started to show signs of life. 'There are different theories as to where the inspiration for Lassie came and ours is one of those. It is said that when people heard the story of Lassie and what she did to rescue Cowan, they told it again and again.' Author Eric Knight was born in Yorkshire in 1897 and would have been aged 18 at the time of the sinking of HMS Formidable. It means he could have been aware of the incident and potentially could have used the tale in his well-known novel. However, Ace Collins, the American author of the 1993 book Lassie - A Dog's Life maintains it was the heartbreak of Knight witnessing families sell their prized collies to buy food during the Depression of the 1930s that inspired him. He said: 'Eric Knight was inspired by a Depression-era tour of England where he saw things that were so bad people were selling their prized dogs just to raise money to feed their families. 'His own collie, Toots, served as the model for Lassie in the Saturday Evening Post short story that was later expanded into a novel. 'I spoke with his daughter when I did the research and reviewed all of Eric Knight's interviews on the inspiration. 'None of my looks through Knight's notes on the story and later the book is anything mentioned about the Lassie story from Lyme Regis. 'But who knows, maybe, while growing up in England, Eric Knight heard that story.' | Landlord's dog nuzzled face of sailor until he stirred and could be saved .
Seaman was presumed dead in Lyme Regis during First World War attack .
Tale of cross-bred collie - Lassie - has now come to light 100 years later .
Many believe story inspired Eric Knight's 1938 novel Lassie Come Home . |
180,383 | 7584d4f78cae1e76a927bb11943d937ad8040f4e | Mexico City (CNN) -- A strong 6.5-magnitude earthquake struck southern Mexico on Saturday night, about 100 miles south-southwest of the capital, the U.S. Geological Survey said. The quake, which hit at 7:47 p.m. local time, had an estimated depth of 40 miles, the USGS said. The agency earlier said it was 6.7 magnitude. There were no immediate reports of major damage in the capital, but several areas were without power, Mexico City Mayor Marcelo Ebrard wrote on his Twitter page. No injuries were reported in the quake, located in Guerrero state. Some startled residents in Mexico City ran out of their houses and into the streets. Loud sirens sounded. CNN's Jose Armigo contributed to this report. | NEW: Mexico City's mayor reports some blackouts, no major damage .
The depth of the quake was some 40 miles, the U.S. Geological Survey says .
There were no immediate reports of injuries . |
206,097 | 96ca04291265f542cd5506051ae4309ea979cb61 | (CNN) -- It was a case of déjà vu at Cheltenham on Wednesday as Ruby Walsh and Willie Mullins took the opening race for a second day in a row. Favorite Faugheen proved too classy for rivals in the Novices' Hurdle, powering away from Ballyalton and Rathvinden to land another win for flamboyant American owner Rich Ricci. "Gosh, that was magic wasn't it?" former banker Ricci told reporters. "He was just brilliant. He's been a very hard horse to keep right but Willie and Ruby have done a fantastic job with him." Sprinter Sacre, one of the brightest stars of National Hunt racing, is sadly absent from this year's Festival as vets continue to ponder his irregular heartbeat, but the magnificent Selle Francais did have a representative in the winners' enclosure in the shape of jockey Nico de Boinville. Sprinter Sacre's regular work rider got up on Whisper to deny AP McCoy on Get Me Out of Here in a photo finish in the day's main handicap. Beating perennial Champion jockey McCoy added to the pleasure for amateur De Boinville, who said:"I was very, very worried when I could see him coming up to me, but it's such a great feeling when they jump and travel as well as my horse did. I didn't have a clue that I'd won -- you don't dream this sort of thing happens." In the day's feature race, the Queen Mother Champion Chase, Sire de Grugy produced the fairytale ending that connections and neutrals were hoping for by running away with the title by six lengths from Somersby and Module. Purchased for £35,000 as a 50th birthday present for businessman Steve Preston by 50 of his friends and family, Sire de Grugy runs in silks inspired by Preston's other passion, Crystal Palace football club. It was not just the Preston family who were celebrating the win; the horse is trained by Gary Moore, who also owns a 25% share, and ridden by his son Jamie. It was Jamie, in fact, who discovered the horse at a small French breeding operation and persuaded his father to take the plunge. His insistence resulted in his first Cheltenham winner. "This means so much to me and my family," said trainer Gary. "It's something I thought could happen but these things don't happen very often. I suppose I'm very lucky to have such a great family. I'm proud of all of them." First to congratulate the Preston family was Ricci himself, whose own representative in the race, Arvika Legionnierre, was pulled up before the finish. There could scarcely be a greater contrast between first-time owner Preston and Ricci, one of the sport's most prominent figures. Ricci, of course, also owns Annie Power, one of the revelations of this jumps season. The super mare puts her undefeated record on the line in Thursday's feature race, the World Hurdle, where she will face four-time winner Big Buck's. Meanwhile, former footballer Michael Owen may not want to give up the day job just yet. On the opening day of the festival he successfully tipped three winners in a row. But on Wednesday he was notably less successful. Only one of his three fancied horses ran a place -- Shaneshill in the 5:15. Unfortunately Owen had tipped it to win. | Day Two of the Cheltenham Festival took place Wednesday .
Faugheen won the Novices' Hurdle with Ruby Walsh in saddle .
Sire de Grugy won the Queen Mother Champion Chase .
Whisper wins Coral Cup . |
179,825 | 74d56647e8c9edcf941f45dca307cd1001318f64 | President Barack Obama claims America is 'starting to realise what the beautiful game is all about' after honouring LA Galaxy for their MLS cup win. The Galaxy were honoured alongside ice hockey's La Kings in a joint ceremony on Monday in the East Room of the White House. Former Tottenham and Liverpool striker Robbie Keane was in attendance, even posing next to Obama with an LA Galaxy shirt. Barack Obama holds up an LA Galaxy shirt next to Robbie Keane (c) and Bruce Arena (l) at the White House . The President was honouring the Galaxy as well as ice hockey's LA Kings in the East Room on Monday . 'Looking forward to it': Robbie Keane posts a picture on Facebook on his way to the event . Obama has praised Los Angeles for providing two championship winning teams . The President said he may be resentful as a Chicago sports fan, but he has to give credit to Los Angeles for producing two championship teams. Obama claims Los Angeles has an 'embarrassment of riches' in sports and that he's especially impressed that a city with no snow, ice or winter can turn into a hockey town. He also gave a special shout-out to Galaxy star Robbie Rogers as the MLS league's first openly gay player. 'I want to recognise what Robbie Rogers of the Galaxy has done for a lot of people by blazing a trail as one of professional sports' first openly gay players,' he said. Robbie Rogers was also praised as one of professional sports' first openly gay players . MLS MVP Robbie Keane celebrates after scoring the winner in the MLS Cup against New England Revolution . The LA Kings defeated the New York Rangers after five games of seven to claim the Stanley Cup . 'My guess is that as an athlete Robbie wants to win first and foremost, that's what competition is all about, but Robbie, you've also inspired a whole lot of folks here and around the world, and we are very proud of you.' He wished both teams the best of luck 'when you are not playing Chicago.' Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard will join the Galaxy this summer as they look for another MLS title. | LA Galaxy won the MLS Cup after beating New England Revolution .
Stanley Cup winners LA Kings defeated the New York Rangers .
Barack Obama praises Los Angeles for their two championships .
Robbie Rogers also paid tribute to after his triumph on and off the pitch .
Robbie Keane poses with the President with an LA Galaxy shirt . |
38,361 | 6c75640a7f5d097c1674fa4175efd1767b1cfb77 | (CNN) -- Catholic faithful from Latin America cheered the historic election of the first pope from the region Wednesday. Crowds swarmed outside the metropolitan cathedral in Buenos Aires, chanting as they waved Argentine flags. Smiling immigrants and tourists praised the news on the steps of New York's St. Patrick's Cathedral. Pilgrims at Mexico City's Basilica of Guadalupe said they were thrilled. Even though about 480 million of the world's 1.2 billion Catholics live in Latin America, for centuries, the church's top job has gone to Europeans. That changed with the announcement that Argentine Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who served as archbishop of Buenos Aires, would become the new pontiff. Bergoglio, 76, chose the name Pope Francis. "I felt like crying. I felt great excitement. It is a blessing from God," said Ines Ambrosi, who spoke to CNN en Español outside New York's St. Patrick's Cathedral shortly after the news was announced. "In Latin America there are millions of Catholics and truly it has been a bit forgotten by the church. Now we feel very represented, and proud." New pope adopts the name Francis . Argentine President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner -- whose government has sparred with Bergoglio in the past -- sent a letter congratulating him as he assumed his new role. "Today is a historic day. ... For the first time in 2,000 years of the church there is going to be a pope that comes from Latin America," she said later at an event broadcast on public television. "And from our hearts we wish for Francis that he can accomplish a greater degree of fraternity between peoples and religions." Talk Back: What kind of spiritual leader will draw people back to organized religion? Argentine Martin Watson compared the new pope to another kind of celebration that has historically been far more common in his country. "The news, for us, was almost like winning the World Cup in soccer," he said. But he added that the papal pick goes beyond national pride. "For Latin America, it will be a great change. More eyes will be focused on our region, and maybe we'll have more support for our region," he said. "We have a lot of needs. We have more than 50% in each country of the region (that) are very poor. That would be a great help for them." 5 things to know about the new pope . Excitement spreads beyond Argentina . Mexico's Catholic bishops released a statement praising the news. "For the churches that are pilgrims in Latin America, it is the cause of great joy," the statement said. "For the Mexican church, it is a clear sign of love for the churches that are pilgrims in these lands." In St. Peter's Square in Vatican City, a woman from Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, told CNN's Anderson Cooper she was overcome with emotion. "I feel that Mexico has been a country that has suffered a lot, and so has Latin America, but it is a people that has always put trust in God," she said, "so it is absolutely wonderful to represent our part of the world this time around." Beside her, a woman from Mexico City said her heart jumped when she heard the announcement that a pope had been picked. A look at the life of Cardinal Bergoglio . "I'm so excited," she said. "It's a reason of being proud tonight, because Latin America is a very important Catholic area and now it's going to be totally represented here, so I'm so proud and I'm so happy today. ... It's going to help a lot, a Latin American pope, it's going to help. It's going to rebuild many things, and it's a new start." In Brazil, the secretary-general of the country's Council of Bishops said he and many others were surprised, but happy, that Bergoglio was chosen. "It is a very beautiful sign that the cardinals gave us by electing a Latin American cardinal, now our Pope Francis," said Leonardo Ulrich Steiner, according to state-run Agencia Brasil. "It shows that the church is truly universal." In Venezuela, interim leader Nicolas Maduro suggested the late President Hugo Chavez -- who died last week -- could have influenced the church's historic move. "We know that our commander ascended to those heights," Maduro said in remarks broadcast on state-run VTV. "He is face to face with Christ. He influenced something. ... Some new hand arrived, and Christ said, well, the new hour of South America has arrived." Before Wednesday's announcement, speculation had surged that the church might select its first non-European pope of the modern era. What's in a name? "It would be an enormous gesture to name a Latin American pope," Virginia Garrard-Burnett, a professor of history and religious studies at the University of Texas at Austin, said earlier this week. Because Catholicism is losing ground in the region, a pope from there could be a boost for the faith, she said. Priest: Pope gives hope and pride to U.S. Latinos . The pick is also good news for Catholic Latinos in the United States, said the Rev. Juan J. Molina, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops associate director for the church in Latin America. "He is also the son of migrants. And for us, Hispanics in the United States, this is very important. ... I think that this topic of migration is going to be very important for him," Molina told CNN en Español. "And we, the Hispanics, the Latinos that now live in the United States ... we can also take some hope and pride that this pope intimately knows and has deeply lived the life of a migrant." New pope's name choice 'precedent shattering' Bergoglio's selection also sends a significant message throughout Latin America, Molina said, where the Catholic faith has had a strong presence for centuries. "The election of a Latin American pope demonstrates that we are now empowered with this faith," Molina said. "The church in Latin America is a mature church." Even the new pope himself alluded to the fact that the church had reached farther than ever for its papal pick. In his first speech from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, he quipped Wednesday that cardinals had gone to "the end of the world" to find him. CNN's Mariano Castillo and Marysabel Huston-Crespo in Atlanta, CNNMexico and Rey Rodriguez in Mexico City, Jose Manuel Rodriguez in Buenos Aires, Juan Carlos Lopez in Washington and Rafael Fuenmayor in New York contributed to this report. | "Today is a historic day," Argentina's president says .
Priest: The pope's past as the son of immigrants could resonate with Latinos .
Mexican bishops say his selection is "a sign of love" for Latin American churches .
Pope Francis is the first pope from Latin America . |
284,271 | fc4bf5b7c8bfd61457b46341e4c2e0562da87745 | Prime Minister Tony Abbott wants to develop a 'red card' system to stop 'hate preachers' from groups like Hizb ut-Tahrir from coming into Australia. The radical Islamic group will hold a lecture against United States-led combat in Syria in Lakemba, south west of Sydney, on Friday night. Mr Abbott says the group is engaged in 'hate preaching' and members should not be allowed to enter Australia to attend such events. Scroll down for video . Prime Minister Tony Abbott wants to develop a 'red card' system to stop 'hate preachers' from groups like Hizb ut-Tahrir from coming into Australia . 'By all means let Australians who want to say stupid things to say stupid things but there's no point importing troublemakers from overseas to stir people up,' he told Macquarie Radio on Wednesday. 'I am sorry we haven't red-carded these hate preachers before but it will happen and it will happen quickly.' Mr Abbott said the current law doesn't allow the government to ban Hizb ut-Tahrir unless the group engages in terrorism, even though it campaigns against Australian values. New laws to be introduced before the end of the year will also make it illegal to promote terrorism. Mr Abbott said the current law doesn't allow the government to ban Hizb ut-Tahrir unless the group engages in terrorism . Friday's lecture, titled The War to End a Blessed Revolution, will accuse the US of attacking the 'noble Syrian revolution' by entering Iraq. 'America has initiated yet another war, rounding up its puppets and allies to attack the Syrian revolution, while using intervention in Iraq as a convenient excuse,' the lecture's brochure says. It comes after the group protested in Lakemba with signs reading 'terror raids cannot break the spirit of Muslims' and 'stop terrorising Muslims' following counter-terrorism raids last month. The radical Islamic group will hold a lecture against United States-led combat in Syria in Lakemba, south west of Sydney, on Friday night . The United States is leading an international coalition in a combat mission to suppress the activities of extremist group Islamic State. Australia has begun air combat missions in Iraq but is yet to drop any bombs. A 200-member unit of Australian special forces is awaiting approval to head into Iraq to advise and assist the local military. Mr Abbott says Australia has no plans to enter Syria and is in Iraq at the request of the Iraqi government. | Islamic group Hizb ut-Tahrir will hold a lecture against US-led combat in Syria in Sydney's Lakemba on Friday .
Prime Minister Tony Abbott says the group is engaged in 'hate preaching' and members shouldn't be allowed to enter the country for such events .
Current law doesn't allow the government to ban the group unless it engages in terrorism .
Mr Abbott said new laws to be introduced by the end of the year will make it illegal to promote terrorism . |
17,222 | 30cb674030b01014d2c87b92f09152857e249631 | By . Steve Hopkins . A cat is up for a top moggy award after tapping on a next-door neighbour's window to get their attention after his owner collapsed at home. Tomcat Slinky Malinki came to Janet Rawlinson's rescue by rapping out an SOS with his paw which alerted Mel and Stephen Sharp. Former nurse and mother-of-one Janet, of Cornholme, Lancashire, was drifting in and out of consciousness for five days after suffering a reaction to morphine she was taking for back pain. Janet Rawlinson with her life saving cat Slinky Malinky, who is up for a hero award at the Cats Protection charity's National Cat Awards which take place in London next month . But the normally aloof two-year-old cat saved the day and has now been nominated for a hero award at the Cats Protection charity's National Cat Awards in London. Ms Rawlinson, 48, credits Slinky with 'saving my life'. She said: 'Slinky was on the fence outside, trying to get the neighbours' attention. 'He was tormenting their dog as well to get their attention. When Slinky's owner collapsed the moggy tapped on his neighbours window to raise the alarm . 'They realised they hadn't seen me for a few days so tried the front door with the spare key, but my key was in the door. 'They got in through the back and managed to wake me up. My neighbour said he thought I was dead.' Ms Rawlinson, a former nurse at Royal Blackburn Hospital who had to give up work due to ill-health, said Slinky now keeps a closer eye on her. Ms Rawlinson said Slinky has become even more attentive since the incident, checking on her regularly . She said: 'If he doesn't see me go in for a couple of hours he will come into the house and find me, and if I don't see him he will tap me on the leg or arm until I respond. 'He never did that until the incident with the morphine.' Ms Rawlinson said Slinky is also playing carer to two 12-week-old kittens she has rescued. Slinky is up against two other felines for the hero award which will be announced on August 7. If he wins he will also be in the running for the overall title of National Cat of the Year. Ms Rawlinson said: 'He is like a gentlemanly uncle. That is how he treats everybody.' | Former nurse Janet Rawlinson suffered a bad reaction to morphine .
She credits her cat Slinky Malinki with saving her life .
The moggy is a cat hero finalist at the national cat awards . |
62,340 | b1177358cd2de12350702ef43ab726975103de25 | In what may be the epic battle of the summer, the White House and Republicans are assembling their armies and sharpening their bayonets for a political fight over the selling of Obamacare. On one side is the Obama administration, which is preparing to carry out the president's landmark health care reform law. It sees success directly linked to his legacy. On the other side are House Republicans, conservative groups, GOP governors and tea party affiliates. They are reading the latest polls and are determined to make the repeal or severe crippling of the Affordable Care Act their top priority before the 2014 midterms. "It's a very important battle and both sides are trying to come out on top," said Julian Zelizer, a Princeton University historian and CNN contributor. "The first stage was about whether this passes or not. ... Now the battle is over implementing it and there are all sorts of ways Republicans are trying to cause problems." Zelizer said Republicans have been aggressively promoting the program's problems in the past few weeks. "And the administration feels the pressure," he said. The next phase of the fight for the White House, according to administration officials, is a series of initiatives aimed at using social media, websites, on-the-ground efforts and targeting Spanish speakers and young people in particular to convince as many uninsured as possible to buy insurance when it becomes available on October 1. "We've got to make sure everybody has good health in this country," President Barack Obama told Morehouse College's commencement ceremonies recently. "It's not just good for you, it's good for this country. So you're going to have to spread the word to your fellow young people." Meanwhile, Republicans are continuing to whittle away at the law's impact and are hoping that Obamacare's failure could become a rallying cry. "It's going to be an issue in the 2014 midterm elections," said Sally Pipes, president and CEO of Pacific Research Institute, a conservative-leaning think tank and author of "The Truth about Obamacare." "When 2014 comes and the percentage of Americans that have employer-based insurance find out they could lose their insurance and be dumped into an exchange there will be an uproar," Pipes said. Here's a glimpse into each side's playbook and the tactics they hope will win: . What the administration wants to doThis summer, the administration will launch several initiatives in its goal to sign up as many as seven million Americans over the next year. They will hit the Internet. They plan to roll out Healthcare.gov as the go-to site for those signing up for insurance under the law, leading up to open enrollment starting on October 1. They will take it to TV. The Health and Human Services Department will soon unleash a campaign to saturate the airwaves with ads pushing people to begin shopping for health care plans. They are making it easier to sign up. To make it easier for consumers to apply for coverage from private insurers under the Obamacare rules, the administration is touting a simplified online form that takes 21 pages and boils it down to three. They will target minorities and young people. These groups are some of those most affected by a lack of insurance. This strategy will leverage Spanish language ads, public education and outreach campaigns targeting recent college graduates, young and diverse faces on its website and a heavy emphasis on digital media. They are claiming it will be cheaper. The White House is pushing a recent surprise in California, where the cost of buying health insurance through the state's exchanges -- as required by the Affordable Care Act -- are coming in as much as half the price of what was initially expected. For instance, the state will charge an average of $304 a month for the cheapest silver-level plan in state-based exchanges next year. President touts Obamacare benefits for moms . Who will pay more under Obamacare? Young men . What Republicans want to doThe GOP will continue to beat the drum on just how bad Obamacare is for the country. They continue to keep it in the headlines. House Republicans have voted 37 times to repeal the law and some critics have suggested it's a waste of time. "Well, while our goal is to repeal all of Obamacare, I would remind you that the president has signed into law seven different bills that repealed or defunded parts of that law. Is it enough? No. A full repeal is needed to keep this law from doing more damage to our economy and raising health care costs," House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, said at a recent press conference. They are linking Obamacare to the IRS scandal. Leading Republicans, such as Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Kentucky, have also suggested suspending implementation of Obamacare until an investigation in completed into the Internal Revenue Service's targeting of conservative groups. They are challenging it in the states. Several states with Republican governors and legislatures have threatened not to establish the required insurance exchanges -- and giving up millions in federal subsidies in the process -- in an effort to derail Obamacare. Opinion: Myths about Obamacare . Still, things are starting to get ugly. Repeated requests by HHS for more money from Congress to implement the law have been denied. Ranking Republicans are now calling the agency's inspector general to investigate whether Health Kathleen Sebelius violated appropriations and ethics rules when she reportedly tried to raise funds for Enroll America, an organization that is working to help put the Affordable Care Act in place. Those actions are now also under investigation by two congressional committees. The agency maintains she made "no fundraising requests to entities regulated by HHS." Public has questions . Caught in the middle is the American public. A Kaiser Family Foundation poll in April showed 49% of those surveyed didn't know how Obamacare would affect them and roughly 40 percent were unaware that the law was being carried out. "In our research looking at barriers faced by families accessing available public insurance for their kids we found that families were often very confused about the requirements and the processes for enrollment," said Jennifer Devoe, a family physician, and professor at Oregon Health and Science University of such programs as Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program. "We also found confusion among families who believed their child to be covered when the child was actually uninsured, and vice versa." A majority of Americans said they opposed the nation's new health care measure, three years after it became law, according to a CNN/ORC International poll released Monday. But looking deeper, the poll also indicated that more than a quarter of those who oppose the law said they didn't support it because it didn't go far enough. | The summer of 2013 will see both sides square off in efforts to sell or roll back Obamacare .
The administration is hoping to start signing up people for health plans October 1 .
Republicans are working hard to cripple existing measures and halt new ones .
Many Americans are still confused, according to recent polling . |
116,031 | 21c2a263f4cf1b00e0fd96f7cf5777dc476cef87 | Borno, Nigeria (CNN) -- Nigeria will proceed with national gubernatorial elections Tuesday, despite continuing violence that has raised fears that an Islamist group will step up attacks against voters. Bomb blasts Monday in Nigeria's northeastern state of Borno killed three people and wounded dozens, police said. In one of three blasts, a bomb thrown from a motorcycle on which two young men were riding detonated, resulting in the three fatalities, said Michael Zukoma, police commissioner for Borno state. Nigerian police told CNN that Boko Haram, an Islamist sect that has challenged Nigeria's government, is responsible for the attacks, which they described as an attempt to intimidate voters who this month re-elected President Goodluck Jonathan, an Ijaw Christian from the south. The explosions occurred a day after the Nigerian Red Cross reported that rural villages had held mass burials in northern Nigeria. Witnesses say that violence in the wake of Jonathan's election has resulted in hundreds of deaths, though there is no official death toll. The government has provided few details. This month's election of Jonathan, who is from the majority-Christian southern part of the country, sparked violence in the Muslim-dominated north last week. Concerns about ongoing violence led Nigerian election officials last week to delay the planned gubernatorial elections in two of Nigeria's 36 states. Voters in Kaduna and Bauchi states will go to the polls Thursday. Northern Muslims in some areas charged that the presidential election was rigged. Armed protesters in the region took to the streets chanting the name of former military ruler Muhammadu Buhari, the main opposition front-runner. The last election, four years ago, was widely condemned for rampant vote rigging, violence, theft of ballot boxes and intimidation. While this month's presidential election was marred by violence, reports of underage voting and logistical problems, observers said they considered it an improvement. After he was declared the victor, Jonathan warned that persistent post-election violence could threaten the stability of the country. "These acts of mayhem are sad reminders of the events which plunged our country into 30 months of an unfortunate civil war," Jonathan said last week. Jonathan was referring to a period of unrest in the 1960s that spawned a civil war in Nigeria. Nigeria is Africa's largest oil producer and its most populous nation, with 150 million people. | A bomb blast on Monday kills 3 people .
President Goodluck Jonathan calls for peace .
Police blame Boko Haram, an Islamist sect, for the attacks .
Northern Muslims in some areas charge the presidential election was rigged . |
91,248 | 015d385e389ed71f8b5d5f89e84d6a443a98c738 | Have you ever been to Dunstable? The whole place is like a museum. And I don't mean that in a positive way. It's not all quaint cottages, and olde-world England. Far from it. It's a grim relic of a bygone era, a town stuck in the past that may never catch up with the rest of the modern world. Charlie Mulgrew celebrates scoring for Celtic against arch rivals Rangers at Parkhead in April 2012 . Lee McCulloch (centre) grabs Scott McDonald during a heated Old Firm derby in October 2007 . The feisty Old Firm (pictured is Victor Wanyama seeing red in March 2012) is the biggest game in Scotland . I lived there briefly, I think I'm all right now though. The football equivalent of Dunstable is the Scottish domestic scene. People try to avoid it, there is nothing of interest there. And the decline of Scottish club football has been brought into startling focus with this weekend's draw for the League Cup semi-finals. When Celtic and Rangers were paired up for one of the ties, it instantly became the biggest game in the history of Scottish domestic football. That might seem ridiculous but when you think it through, it's true. The Glasgow derby games are always massive, and they're always the biggest games of the season. So that makes this one the biggest Scottish club football will see this campaign. Rangers' Graham Roberts smiles down on Celtic's Owen Archdeacon after hitting him with a tackle in 1987 . Celtic are languishing in the league under Ronny Deila, despite striker John Guidetti's good run of form . But it's so much more than that, and here are the reasons why it's the biggest fixture ever: . 1) Never before has Scotland had to wait so long for an Old Firm clash. When this semi-final takes place, it will be two years and nine months since the last time Celtic and Rangers locked horns. 2) Never before have Rangers had such a massive point to prove. The fans feel they have been let down by the previous owners of the club, and those running the game north of the border. 3) Not for many years have Celtic been in such a shocking state. Strangers to the Champions League and scrapping their way back up the table, jostling for position with the likes of Inverness Caledonian Thistle and Hamilton Academicals as they chase down Dundee United at the top. Neil Lennon preferred to be at Bolton at the foot of the Championship than slum it at Parkhead. It's a period of humiliation for the once-great Celtic Football Club. And while Rangers have been similarly humiliated, Celtic's embarrassment hasn't been imposed on them. 4) Never before has the Scottish domestic game been so moribund that literally everybody who cares about football in Scotland was desperate for this fixture to come in one of the cup competitions. The circumstances both clubs find themselves in, and the hunger for a long-awaited, hotly-anticipated Old Firm game make this, in my opinion, the biggest club game in Scotland ever. It's a sad state for Scottish football to find itself in. Neil Lennon preferred to scrap it out at the foot of the Championship with Bolton than stay north of the border . | Celtic play Rangers in the Scottish League Cup semi-finals .
The Old Firm derby is the biggest game north of the border .
But this takes on added importance after two years without a clash . |
154,258 | 535c2d0c0c203cd7b1d3b2e990f7adb0f8fe65e0 | A 12-year-old schoolgirl threatened to kill herself after internet trolls urged her to take her own life on the controversial website Ask.fm. Kierah Gowers was targeted by anonymous bullies after signing up to the website a year ago. The Latvian-based social network was previously linked to the death of teenager Hannah Smith, from Leicestershire, who killed herself after months of bullying online. Kierah Gowers (pictured) threatened to kill herself after she was urged to take her own life by anonymous trolls on controversial website Ask.fm . Now Kierah's mother Kerry Gowers, 32, from Blackpool, Lancashire, has called for the site to be shut down after her daughter received a series of spiteful messages. One message read: 'If you don’t kill yourself now I will do it for you... kill you, your family and everyone that you love.' Another post said: 'There is no point in you being alive... I honestly think the world would be a much better place if you were gone.' A third said: 'Go drink bleach it will kill you or you could cut really deep.' Kierah Gowers was targeted by anonymous bullies after signing up to the website a year ago . Kierah's mother Kerry Gowers (right) has now called for the site to be shut down after her daughter (left) received the messages . Kierah today said: 'I felt like I . wanted to hurt myself. I felt like someone out there wanted me not to be . here, so I would make it happen.' Ask.fm is not covered by British online safety regulations as it is based in Latvia, which could make it difficult for the British Government to intervene. It has more than 60million users worldwide and lets anyone see the names, photographs and personal details of boys and girls as young as 13. Users post comments that range from innocent questions, to insults to threats of violence. It has been heavily criticised by anti-bullying charities because it allows users to post anonymous comments or questions – often of a sexual or insulting nature. Charity BeatBullying said one in three young people were bullied online and Ask.fm is among the worst offender. She . added: 'The messages started off with people asking questions and my . opinion on stuff, and about half way through the year it started getting . nasty. People were telling me I should drink bleach. 'That was the worst message I had, as well as one threatening my family. They were two weeks ago. It’s horrible there are people out there who can say things like that. I would like to see it shut down.' Kierah, a pupil at Highfield . Humanities College, in Blackpool, stopped going on to the website when . the messages started, but because the site was linked to her Facebook . account, she got regular updates of what people were writing. She has . now closed her Ask.fm page down. Mrs . Gowers said: 'We don’t know who these people are or why they are doing . it, but they have made her life a hell to the point where she threatened . to kill herself. 'Nobody should have access to the site, . it should be shut down. You shouldn’t give kids a tool like this where . they can threaten to kill someone’s family and tell them to slash their . wrists and drink bleach. Kierah (left, on holiday with family in York in 2009) said it was 'horrible there are people out there who can say things like that'. Her mother Kerry (right) said the online bullies had made her daughter's like 'a hell' Hannah Smith, 14, killed herself after months of bullying online . Hannah Smith, 14, was found hanged in her bedroom in August after months of abuse on the Ask.fm website, whose users are able to hide their identities. The teenager, from Lutterworth in Leicestershire, was told to drink bleach and cut herself by users of the website. The Latvian based website has been linked to the deaths of four other teenagers including Daniel Perry, 17, from Dunfermline in July and Josh Unsworth, 15, from Lancashire in April. Specsavers, Vodafone, Laura Ashley, EDF Energy and charity Save the Children all pulled adverts from Ask.fm amid the controversy surrounding Hannah’s death. Kierah’s headmaster Ian Evans said staff were working on a new cyber bullying awareness project in school. He added: 'There must be some regulatory action to take with this unfiltered, anonymous website. It is in nobody’s interest that it is allowed to continue.' A spokesman for Lancashire Police said: 'We urge anybody who feels they have been a victim of internet abuse to contact police. Every case will be treated on its own merit and we will take all necessary and proportionate action.' | Kierah Gowers was targeted by anonymous bullies on website Ask.fm .
Her mother has now called for the site to be shut down following messages .
Site was linked to death of teenager Hannah Smith who was bullied online .
If you or a family member have contemplated suicide, contact The Samaritans on 08457 909090 . |
43,941 | 7bf49e9d6bb98c0d2c0232a528dfbe31dc499ce1 | Tony Morley, the man who struck the most famous cross in Aston Villa history, was in the press room at the KC Stadium on Tuesday night poring over some statistics. He observed in the matchday programme how his club still holds the fourth highest total of major honours in the history of English football, with only Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal collecting more silverware. Villa have won seven First Division Championships, seven FA Cups, five League Cups, and of course, in 1982, one European Cup. In the final against Bayern Munich, Morley delivered the ball converted by Peter Withe to seal forever a moment to cherish for Villa fans. Joe Cole (left) and Christian Benteke (right) look dejected during Aston Villa's defeat to Hull City . Goalscorer Peter Withe (l) and Nigel Spinks (r) pose with the European Cup after beating Bayern Munich 1-0 . Paul Lambert is under pressure at Aston Villa with the fans on his back . Derby have been able to call on £65,000-per-week Bent, who has commanded almost £50m in transfer fees during his career, during a loan spell in the Championship. The England international has scored four goals in five games, after Paul Lambert lost trust with the striker, who cost Villa £24m. Throw in the European Super Cup secured the following season and it is 21 genuine trophies, one ahead of Chelsea. Those positions will surely be reversed by this season’s close. Two clubs going in opposite directions, much of Villa’s success came many years ago – six league crowns before 1910. Eleven of Chelsea’s honours have come since July 2003. It does not take the sharpest brain to spot the correlation between that growing trophy cabinet and Roman Abramovich’s enormous investment. Villa believed they had their own sugar daddy when American Randy Lerner came to town in August 2006. Initially, they very much did. Lerner pumped in many millions during Martin O’Neill’s reign, signing the likes of Ashley Young, James Milner and Stewart Downing for eight-figure fees. Three consecutive top six finishes followed and a place among the gilded corridors of Champions League football seemed close, as recently as 2010. But Lerner felt compelled to run his ship on more streamlined terms, falling out with O’Neill in the process. Still, Darren Bent arrived for a club-record transfer, initially worth £18m, in January 2011 under Gerard Houllier. Even out on loan at Derby County, Villa pick up more than two thirds of his £65,000 per week wages. Darren Bent fell out of favour at Aston Villa but has scored four goals in five games for Derby County . Aston Villa spent many millions during Martin O'Neill's reign, including on Ashley Young from Watford . The Villa fans present a 'Lambert Out' banner at the KC Stadium on Tuesday night . Overall Lerner is estimated to have ploughed into the club £300million of his own money – racking up sizeable Villa losses. These funds have declined in recent years as Lerner has lost interest, but he has opened the cheque-book on occasions too. Paul Lambert’s record purchase is £7million Christian Benteke. Tom Cleverley would have been bought for £8m had Everton’s late interest not materialised forcing the loan option. Carles Gil arrived for £3.2m this January. Frees such as Joe Cole, Philippe Senderos and Kieran Richardson were brought in for this season, and Scott Sinclair’s January move from Manchester City stalled at the £2.5m asking price, before an initial temporary switch was agreed. Demba Ba’s £80,000 per week wages were not even countenanced, but a £5m bid for Rickie Lambert was made on deadline day. Lambert’s net spend at Villa stands at £44m, with much dribbled away on European gambles such as Aleksander Tonev, Nicklas Helenius, and Antonio Luna. That total is more than Everton have paid and recouped over the same period, more than Tottenham. Villa’s failure to sell any players of great significance over this time is key, and Lambert cannot compete with the wages on offer at White Hart Lane. (Steve Bruce’s Hull have a net spend greater than £60m.) Villa slipped into the relegation zone of the Premier League after the defeat . Dame N'Doye of Hull City celebrates after scoring the second goal of the game . Lerner wants out, make no mistake. After searching privately for many months, he publicly placed the club up for sale last May and, despite claims he subsequently became ‘re-energised’, continues to invite a buyer. Just who would be interested at the £200m price Lerner wants as Villa dip below the dotted line of relegation remains to be seen. These are critical times and an asset in the Championship plunges in value, particularly in light of the astronomical domestic television deal struck by the Premier League worth £5.1billion. Quite when Lerner will study Villa’s utterly rudderless 2-0 defeat at Hull City from his residence across the Atlantic is uncertain. He last attended a Villa match in September, the visit of Arsenal when Lambert’s side had won three, drawn one of their opening four Premier League fixtures. That was Lerner’s first game in person in two years and it seems unlikely he will be returning to ‘enjoy’ his club any time soon. They have not won in ten Premier League games, failed to score in 15 all season. Randy Lerney has only been present at one game this season, the 3-0 home defeat to Arsenal . Lerner installed a new chief executive last summer in Tom Fox, drafted from Arsenal, to raise the commercial pull of a club rich in history. The idea was for Lambert to push Villa up the Premier League table while Fox implemented changes to make the club self-sustainable. That plan is under serious threat. Lambert faced renewed calls for his head from Villa fans at the KC Stadium, a banner unfurled reading “Lambert Out’ and chants to the same effect. After the game, a group of travelling supporters waited by the team bus to confront the squad. Villa will remain in the bottom three for ten days at least, with Leicester in the FA Cup next on Sunday. Fox said it was a ‘false narrative’ to blame the manager, but that provided little succour to supporters long starved of aspirations. Villa are in a downward spiral with a shortage of hope. While this trouble has been a long-time coming, something now has to change, and quick. ASTON VILLA OVER THE LAST THREE SEASONS (Premier League - only teams present in all three seasons) | Aston Villa hold fourth highest total of major honours in English football .
But club are now languishing in the relegation zone of the Premier League .
Fans unveiled 'Lambert Out' banner in 2-0 defeat to Hull City on Tuesday .
Owner Randy Lerner hasn't visited a Villa game since September .
Villa's statistics over the last three years aren't for pretty reading . |
245,091 | c9379c82db500d6bfb382bb560ed0446c58e0987 | By . Hayley Peterson . PUBLISHED: . 09:10 EST, 15 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 09:58 EST, 15 August 2013 . A local television news station in San Diego has called for Mayor Bob Filner to resign in a controversial music video parody of pop artist Robin Thicke's 'Blurred Lines.' The video by U-T TV, the cable affiliate of the Union-Tribune newspaper, features the station's young, female morning news hosts dancing in low-cut shirts and denying the advances of a gyrating man meant to represent Filner, who has been accused of sexual harassment by 14 women. Filner's face is superimposed on the man's head in the video. U-T TV, a local news station in San Diego, has called for Mayor Bob Filner to resign in a controversial music video parody of pop artist Robin Thicke's 'Blurred Lines' The video by U-T TV, the cable affiliate of the Union-Tribune newspaper, features the station's young, female morning news hosts dancing in low-cut shirts . The station changed the lyrics of Thicke's 'Blurred Lines' to say, 'If you can't hear what San Diego says, if you can't tell we're in a different age, maybe it's time you left, maybe you should resign, Mayor Filner you are terrifying.' While the Filner character gyrates and rubs up on the women in the video, the words 'CREEPER' and 'RESIGN' flash across the screen. 'You don't need that grabber,' the lead singer chants. 'That man is not your mayor.' 'He thinks you want it, but you don't want it,' the song continues. 'It makes us vomit... The man's a bully, he's just a creeper. And we would prefer if you resign. The nation's laughing.' The video has sparked a bit of outrage in the journalism community, with some of the harshest criticism coming from the Voice of San Diego news site, a U-T competitor. While the Filner character gyrates and rubs up on the women in the video, the words 'CREEPER' and 'RESIGN' flash across the screen . The station changed the lyrics of Thicke's 'Blurred Lines' to say, 'If you can't hear what San Diego says, if you can't tell we're in a different age, maybe it's time you left, maybe you should resign, Mayor Filner you are terrifying' Some commenters on the U-T's video said the video objectifies women, while others said the lyrics portrayed Filner's alleged victims as strong for standing up to him . The managing editor of the site called the video 'vapid and embarrassing' in an interview with the Los Angeles Times. Dean Nelson, director of the journalism program at Point Loma Nasarene University, told the Times that the 'the only thing a news organization has is its credibility in reporting the news' and 'this doesn't help.' Some commenters on the U-T's video said the video objectifies women, while others said the lyrics portrayed Filner's alleged victims as courageous strong for standing up to him. San Diego Mayor Bob Filner speaks during a news conference at city hall in San Diego on July 26. More than a dozen women have claimed that he sexually harassed them . Opponents of Filner hold placards during a 'Not Welcome Back' rally calling for him to resign at the Civic Center Plaza in downtown San Diego on August 12 . 'Whomever made this video failed completely,' wrote on commenter. 'First, the original music video has nude women prancing around. Second the song itself much like the person you guys are parodying, objectifies women. Lyrics doesn't change the fact that this song has baggage that negatively affects your message. Entertaining, yes but I wouldn't have chosen this song for the parody.' Another wrote in support of the video: 'The lyrics have been changed from lyrics degrading to women to lyrics of empowerment.' U-T San Diego responded to that comment, saying, 'Thanks for understanding... We are just trying to entertain with this video. That's all!' | Sandy Diego Mayor Bob Filner, 70, is rejecting calls for him to resign after 14 women have come forward and accused him of sexual harassment .
Filner finished a therapy session last week reportedly aimed at helping him learn to respect women .
TV news station U-T San Diego made the music video parody starring their morning anchors .
'Blurred Lines' has been No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for nine consecutive weeks . |
48,472 | 88c75435d262644dc6a868c8129e67d0358940bf | By . Rob Cooper . UPDATED: . 10:40 EST, 2 April 2012 . Five members of Osama Bin Laden's family have been jailed for staying in Pakistan illegally - but they will be released in just 45 days. Three of the terror leader's widows and two daughters have been held behind bars since the Al Qaeda terror leader was killed in his compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan last May. The group were all living with Bin Laden when his base was raided by U.S. Navy Seals. Ladies' man: Three of Osama Bin Laden's wives, including his youngest bride Amal (right), have been jailed in Pakistan for just 45 days . Pakistani authorities formally . arrested the women on March 3 and they will serve another two weeks . behind bars before they are deported to their homelands along with the family's younger children, said their lawyer, Mohammed Amir Khalil. Two of the widows are Saudi and one is Yemeni, he said. Khalil said Yemen has consented to the woman being returned, but he is still in discussion with Saudi officials. Saudi Arabia stripped Bin Laden of his citizenship in 1994 because of his verbal attacks against the Saudi royal family. As well as being jailed, the five . women were also ordered to pay a fine of about £70 each. The lawyer does . not plan to appeal the court's ruling. Yemen-born Amal Al-Sadeh, the youngest widow, and her four children were among 16 people detained by Pakistani authorities after the raid, which also included two other wives. Pakistan was outraged by the raid on Bin Laden's compound because they were not informed it was happening beforehand. Home: Bin Laden's three wives and two daughters lived with him in the Abbottabad hideout just 200 yards from a military base which was raided last year . Going, going, gone: The compound was destroyed last year to prevent it from becoming a pilgrimage . Officials have said they had no idea . the Al Qaeda chief was in Abbottabad, something many in Washington found . hard to believe because his compound was located close to Pakistan's . equivalent of the Sandhurst military academy. The U.S. has not found any evidence indicating senior Pakistani officials knew of Bin Laden's whereabouts. But details uncovered recently from . the interrogation of his 30-year-old Yemeni wife, Amal Ahmed Abdel-Fatah . al-Sada, raised fresh questions about how Bin Laden was able to remain . undetected for so long in Pakistan after the September 11 attacks, . despite being the subject of a massive international manhunt. After leaving Afghanistan, Bin Laden . lived in five safe houses over the course of nine years while on the run . in Pakistan and fathered four children - two of them born in government . hospitals, according to al-Sada's interrogation report. Al-Sada's account says she flew to . Pakistan in 2000 and traveled to Afghanistan where she married Bin Laden . before the September 11 attacks. Safe house: Afghan refugees gather outside the house in Haripur, Pakistan, where Pakistan's intelligence agency believes Osama bin Laden lived for nearly a year until he moved into the villa where he was eventually killed . After that, the family 'scattered' and she traveled to Karachi in Pakistan. She later met up with Bin Laden . in Peshawar and then moved to the Swat Valley, where they lived in two . houses. They moved one more time before settling in Abbottabad in 2005. According to the report, al-Sada said . that two of her children were born in government hospitals, but that she . stayed only 'two or three hours' in the clinics on both occasions. The . charge sheet against the three women says that they gave officials fake . identities. Meanwhile, new pictures have emerged . which purport to show the house where Bin Laden lived for a year before . he moved to the mansion where he was killed. It's an ornate but not lavish two-storey house tucked away at the end of a mud-clogged street. This is where Pakistan's intelligence agency believes Osama bin Laden lived for nearly a year until he moved into the villa in which he was eventually killed. The residence in the frontier town of Haripur was one of five safe houses used by the slain Al Qaeda leader while on the run in Pakistan, according to information revealed by his youngest wife. Retired Pakistani Brigadier Shaukat Qadir, who has spent the last eight months tracking bin Laden's movements, said he was taken to the Haripur house last November by intelligence agents who located it from a description they got from al-Sada. | Five arrested after Bin Laden was shot dead in Pakistan compound .
Three widows and two daughters also fined £70 .
They will be deported back to their homelands at the end of their sentences . |
26,103 | 49f876b356e51be99528c32fecb8f7815155cb3c | By . Lydia Warren . Duck Dynasty star Alan Robertson has come to his homophobic father's defense in an impassioned speech, branding him a '21st Century prophet' who is being punished for speaking 'truths'. Following in the footsteps of his father's religious rants, Alan, the oldest son of Phil Robertson, made the comments in an address at the Watchmen on the Wall conference in Washington D.C. last week. He explained that the outcry at his father's December interview in GQ magazine - in which he likened homosexuality to . bestiality - had not changed his views. 'It hasn't changed us one bit, who we are, what we believe and what we teach other people. And it won't,' he told the audience in a video of the speech. Scroll down for videos . Defense: Alan Robertson, son of Duck Dynasty patriarch Phil Robertson, defended his father in a speech last week and branded him a '21st Century prophet' for maintaining his beliefs despite outcry . In a bizarre move, he then compared his father to John the Baptist, saying the two men looked alike, lived similar lives and were both attacked for speaking the truth. 'My dad, Phil Robertson, has the heart and the mindset of a prophet… long hair, long beard, naturally camouflaged, he ate off the land and he pointed people to Christ,' Alan said, RadarOnline first reported. '[John] also lost his head for speaking the truth in a culture that really wasn’t prepared to hear truth. 'And yet, you know what - that doesn't change dad's view at all. Prophets tend to not care about their public image, they tend to talk about judgment as if it’s real and they speak what God gives them to speak and that's what my dad does. He is in that sense a 21st Century prophet.' In hot water: Robertson, 68, was briefly suspended from Duck Dynasty last December following an interview . Alan was a pastor for two decades before he went back into the family business making duck calls. He and his wife Lisa joined his parents and siblings on Duck Dynasty last year. Alan Robertson . Despite A&E briefly dropping Phil Robertson from the show after the scandal in December, he has not kept quiet about his homophobic views. Just last month, he was filmed giving an Easter Sunday sermon at Whites Ferry Road Church in his hometown of West Monroe, Louisiana on April 20, according to a video on YouTube. In the footage, the 68-year-old expresses his anger at the outcry over his December interview. 'They were mad at me,' he tells the congregation in the video. 'You say, "why'd they get mad at you?" Cuz instead of acknowledging their sin, like you had better do, they railed against me for giving them the truth about their sins. Don't deceive yourselves.' Rant: In an Easter Sunday sermon at his Louisiana church, Duck Dynasty patriarch Phil Robertson complained about the outrage against him following his homophobic comments last year . It emerged just five months after Robertson, a born-again Christian, gave the controversial GQ interview. 'Everything is blurred on what’s right and what's wrong. Sin becomes fine,' he said in the interview. 'Start with homosexual behavior and just morph out from there. 'Bestiality, sleeping around with this woman and that woman and that woman and those men... Neither the adulterers, the idolaters, the male prostitutes, the homosexual offenders, the greedy, the drunkards, the slanderers, the swindlers - they won't inherit the kingdom of God.' His homophobic comments also included such insights as: 'It seems like, to me, a vagina - as a man - would be more desirable than a man's anus. 'That's just me. I’m just thinking: There’s more there! She's got more to offer. I mean, come on, dudes! You know what I'm saying? But hey, sin: It's not logical, my man. It's just not logical.' On the show: Alan, a former pastor, is pictured renewing his parents' vows in season four of Duck Dynasty . Family: Alan is the only non-bearded member of the Robertson family, who made their millions from duck calls . He also grouped homosexuals with terrorists, saying, 'We never, ever judge someone on who's going to heaven, hell. That's the Almighty's job. We just love 'em, give 'em the good news about Jesus - whether they're homosexuals, drunks, terrorists. We let God sort 'em out later, you see what I'm saying?' After the interview emerged, Robertson was put on indefinite hiatus from Duck Dynasty. While his removal was lauded by gay rights organizations, fans of the show denounced it as a violation of his right to free speech. Conservative . supporters included Sarah Palin, who wrote in a Facebook post: 'Free . speech is an endangered species. Those intolerants' hatin' and taking on . the Duck Dynasty patriarch for voicing his personal opinion are taking . on all of us.' A&E . initially said his views were 'disappointing' but two weeks later, they . announced that Robertson would be included when they began filming . again in the new year. Uncertain future: Duck Dynasty (the cast is pictured) has seen lower ratings since the tirade last year . 'After discussions with the Robertson family, as well as consulting with numerous advocacy groups, A&E has decided to resume filming Duck Dynasty later this spring with the entire Robertson family,' the network said in a statement. Robertson also released a public apology saying, in part: 'I would never treat anyone with disrespect just because they are different from me. 'We are all created by the Almighty and like Him, I love all of humanity. We would all be better off if we loved God and loved each other.' Whether or not this latest rant will affect his position on the show - which has suffered falling ratings since the first tirade - has yet to be seen. The show is scheduled to begin its sixth season on June 11. See below for video . | Alan Robertson, a former pastor, spoke in Washington D.C. last week and said outcry at his dad's homophobic comments had not affected his views .
'He has the heart and mindset of a prophet,' he said .
Phil Robertson was briefly dropped from A&E show Ducky Dynasty last year after he compared homosexuality to bestiality in an interview .
He was also filmed expressing the same beliefs in a sermon last month . |
62,129 | b07fb2fc71ed3fe86dd275127091b35a900898d1 | Tennis ace Victoria Azarenka has candidly opened up about her battle with depression following her split from music star Redfoo. After two years and a series of engagement rumours, the 25-year-old parted ways with Redfoo in June 2014 and her career took a nosedive. Azarenka, from Belarus in Eastern Europe, said she was left broken-hearted when she split from X Factor Australia judge Redfoo and turned to the unlikely hobby of painting to get her through the tough times, she told the New York Times. Scroll down for video . Tennis ace Victoria Azarenka (pictured at Hozier Lane in Melbourne) has candidly opened up about her battle with depression following her split from music star Redfoo. A foot and knee injury restricted the tennis star to only 24 matches in 2014 leading to a disaster year, both professionally and romantically. 'I did get my heart broken; I really did. I'm over it, but it was broken. And I'm not afraid to admit that it was, but it's life,' she said. 'I think the toughest part is to admit that you weren't O.K. Somebody asked me at one stage, 'Are you depressed?' And I said: 'Are you kidding me? I'm not depressed.' But you know what? I was. I was, but I just didn't realize it, because all these things happen, and you just don't know how to deal with emotions.' After two years and a series of engagement rumours, the 25-year-old Belarusian athlete parted ways with Redfoo in June 2014 and her career took a nosedive . Azarenka, who admits that she cried a lot last year, was hitting rock-bottom and was searching for a new hobby to take her mind off her troubles. With her mother being a professional painter, it was only right that she would try her hand at the brush and before she knew it she was getting compliments on her work. She started crying during her first painting class and threw the brush down. Using her hands, she smeared the paint across her shirt, creating what she thought was a mess. 'I was upset, and I was lazy, and I just wiped my hands on my shirt, just everything on my shirt, on my pants. And I woke up the next day and had a meeting in this restaurant with Nike people, and I didn't feel like dressing up. I just put on that shirt and those pants, and I come into the restaurant. And the Nike people, they're like: 'Oh my God, that's a cool shirt. Where did you buy it?' ' she said. Speaking to the New York Times , Azarenka said she was left broken-hearted when she split from X Factor Australia judge Redfoo and turned to an unlikely hobby to get her through the tough times . Azarenka is pictured in Hozier Lane in Melbourne. The tennis star had a disaster year in 2014 . Speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald, Azarenka said painting is all about expressing yourself and felt it was a great outlet for her at the time. 'I don't consider myself as a great painter; I just feel that art is about expressing your emotions and expressing your feelings, and music is the same way, you can see what other people are going through. If you listen to some songs, I never understood some of the lyrics, and then I was like 'oh my God, this is what I'm going through! Did you write it for me'?' Azarenka reveals that she found a shoulder to cry on in good friend and fellow tennis star Caroline Wozniacki. Wozniacki had just been jilted by golfer Rory McIlroy when Azarenka and Redfoo called quits on their relationship and she was also feeling the strain of her personal problems. Azarenka, who admits that she cried a lot last year, was hitting rock-bottom and was searching for a new hobby to take her mind off her troubles. With her mother being a professional painter, it was only right that she would try her hand at the brush and before she knew it she was getting compliments on her work . Redfoo and Azarenka were together for two-years before they split, They are pictured here at Madison Square Garden in 2013 . 'We were both in Monaco when her situation happened and everything with me happened, and we were just having dinner and crying on each other's shoulders.' The young star said she has never looked at the official numbers and does not take any heed of where she ranks on the world table in tennis, despite having only made one final last year and ending her season with a loss in Tokyo. 2015 kicked off with a disappointing loss for Azarenka at the Brisbane International before a tough training week at Melbourne Park. However Azareka is set to come back fighting this year for the Australian Open in January. The young star (pictured at Hozier Lane in Melbourne) said she has never looked at the official numbers and does not take any heed of where she ranks on the world table in tennis, despite having only made one final last year and ending her season with a loss in Tokyo . | Tennis ace Victoria Azarenka has opened up about her split with singer Redfoo .
The couple split in June 2014 after two years together .
She has revealed her disastrous year left her depressed and she turned to painting .
Her foot and knee injury restricted her just 24 games in 2014 .
She says she is not ashamed of admitting she suffered from depression . |
232,968 | b9a08727024656ccaab15173e19faab223bf297a | Few things irritate great coaches more than suggestions that their teams are unsophisticated. It undermines everything they like to think they stand for. It pricks their ego. With this in mind, the moment Louis van Gaal walked in to a press conference room holding four pieces of A4 paper on Tuesday, it was always likely that an interesting 20 minutes or so lay ahead. The print-outs were Prozone stats sheets, breaking down the play from Manchester United's draw at West Ham on Sunday. The intention was to debunk the theory - raised by West Ham's Sam Allardyce after the weekend's game - that United had resorted to long-ball football at Upton Park. Louis van Gaal brandishes his dossier as he attempts to prove that Manchester United are not a long ball side . Van Gaal looks unimpressed as the Dutchman tells a packed press conference about his tactics . 'When a colleague of mine is saying this kind of thing then, yeah, you have to see the data and you have to put the data in the right context,' said Van Gaal. 'I have made an interpretation of the data for this game and then I have to say that it is not a good interpretation from Big Sam. It is not so difficult to read that. 'I give it you, you can copy it and then maybe you can go to Big Sam and he will get a good interpretation.' This sheet suggests United had a 56 per cent success rate of their 41 'long and forward' passes during the match at West Ham. The blue arrows indicate a successful pass . West Ham made just 11 of their 32 'long and forward' passes during the match, according to boss Van Gaal . Van Gaal claims United made 49.9 per cent of 'long passes forward' in comparison to West Ham's 71 per cent . This page suggests United played 12 long passes after 76 minutes of their 1-1 draw at Upton Park on Sunday. Eight of them were successful. Van Gaal's argument on Tuesday was clear. His team's long passes were, he said, aimed at spreading the play wide. They were not long, high deliveries up field. That only started, he added, when Marouane Fellaini came on with 20 minutes to go. 'We scored from that, so I think it was a very good decision of the manager,' Van Gaal added. It was a clear argument and one that didn't actually need the bits of paper and the red and blue arrows to explain. In truth, the whole intriguing spectacle perhaps said more about Van Gaal himself than it did about his team's football. An immediate comparison was made by many to Rafael Benitez's infamous 'facts' tirade back when his Liverpool team were challenging Sir Alex Ferguson's United in 2009. Benitez referred to a piece of paper that day, too. United's change of tack came after 6ft 4in Fellaini was brought on in the second half, Van Gaal claimed . Van Gaal, pictured leaving the Upton Park pitch at half-time, flanked by Ryan Giggs and Albert Stuivenberg . On that occasion, however, Benitez just looked like a man buckling under pressure, a coach frazzled by the intensity of the duel with his great rival. Tuesday seemed to be about something else entirely. It seemed more like a coach seeking to protect a reputation forged by years spent at Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich. It was as dismissive as it was carefully constructed. 'When you have 60% ball possession do you think that you can do that with long balls?' asked Van Gaal rhetorically. 'Yeah, long balls, in the width, to switch the play. You have to look at the data and then you will see that we did play long balls, but long balls wide, rather than to the striker. 'A ball straight up to the forward is long ball play. I am sorry, but we are playing ball possession play and after 70 minutes we did not succeed, in spite of many chances in the second half, so then I changed my playing style.' Whether Van Gaal's performance on Tuesday looked a little over the top is certainly a pertinent question. Only some improved football from his team will end an argument that is actually a lot wider than Van Gaal allowed it to be. The current issue about United's football is not restricted to the distance of their passes. It is more general than that. It is about entertainment and a coach's ability to get the best from his players. Is Van Gaal currently doing that? Few would say so. Daley Blind scores a late equaliser for Man United at Upton Park to rescue a 1-1 draw for Van Gaal's side . Cheikhou Kouyate opened the scoring for West Ham in their Premier League match against Man United . When a colleague of mine is saying this kind of thing then, yeah, you have to see the data and you have to put the data in the right context I believe. I think the media is also coming to the match and you have a lot of opinion about me, or the game, or the players and now you say that you have no opinion. When you have 0 per cent ball possession do you think that you can do that with long balls? Yeah, long balls, in the width, to switch the play. You have to look at the data and then you will see that we did play long balls, but long balls wide, rather than to the striker. A ball to the forward striker is mainly caused by long-ball play. Because I expected this question, I have made an interpretation of the data for this game and then I have to say that it is not a good interpretation from Big Sam. It is not so difficult also to read that. I am sorry, but we are playing ball possession play and after 70 minutes we did not succeed, in spite of many chances in the second half, then I changed my playing style. Then, of course, with the quality of Fellaini we played more forward balls and we scored from that, so I think it was a very good decision of the manager. But, when you see overall the long ball, and what is the percentage of that, then West Ham have played 71 per cent of the long balls to the forwards and we 49. So, I give you this and you can see that the blue ones are the good ones because long balls are also very difficult, which is why I began with the explanation of ball possession. When you have 60 per cent ball possession you cannot play long balls. So again, they did it 71 and we 49, and I give it you, you can copy it and then maybe you can go to Big Sam and he will get a good interpretation. Wayne Rooney, for example, is currently playing in midfield and on his worst United scoring run since 2006. He may be relieved, at least, to hear Van Gaal say that his days as a striker are not necessarily over. 'No, it's dependable on the circumstances,' said the 62-year-old. 'How we are satisfied, or not, how he is satisfied, or not. It can change every week.' Asked next if entertainment was a priority Van Gaal was categorical. He said: 'You know that when you see my career I think that it is enough answer. 'I think we have played attractive games and less attractive games. With every club I think this is the case, so there's no discussion. 'In this world you have to win and play attractive, but that's not so simple. We do our best. Of course, we have never played with the same team because of injuries. Wayne Rooney was pushed out wide and into midfield by United boss Van Gaal at Upton park on Sunday . 'Still, when you see the fans against Cambridge United, there were a lot of them so they are obviously enjoying the games. 'When I am on the streets they show that to me, so I don't think that we are not playing attractive enough for the fans. 'I always applaud, so I think that everyone is still happy.' One interesting sub-plot ahead of Wednesday night's game against Burnley at Old Trafford is that in Opta's table of 'long passes', only the Lancashire club have played more than United this season. It's a label that irritates Burnley manager Sean Dyche, too. He referred to it as 'media myth' after his team's draw with West Brom on Sunday. It seems, then, that the thorny issue of long-ball football is one that raises the hackles of managers at both ends of the age and pay scale. Dyche has not resorted to bits of paper to defend himself, though. Not yet anyway. | Louis van Gaal produced a dossier at his press conference on Tuesday .
He was responding to criticism from Sam Allardyce about his gameplan .
The intention was to rubbish claims he deployed long-ball tactics .
A comparison was made by many to Rafa Benitez's infamous 'facts' tirade .
CLICK HERE for all the latest Manchester United news . |
178,403 | 72fc76e3089515ec0540eb385d899ef1f4499610 | Langley, Arkansas (CNN) -- One person remained missing Monday from last week's flash flood at an Arkansas campground that left 19 dead, and "there's still a possibility there could be others," Gov. Mike Beebe told CNN. Rescuers found a 19th body over the weekend about half to three-quarters of a mile downstream from the campground, Arkansas State Police Capt. Mike Fletcher told reporters. Eighteen of the 19 bodies recovered so far have been identified, Fletcher said. A wall of water swept through the Albert Pike Recreation Area before dawn Friday, when most campers were sleeping. The park is located along the Caddo and Little Missouri rivers, and the flood struck so quickly there was little chance for campers to escape, officials said. "I don't think any of this has been a good day," Fletcher said. "I think we need to keep these families in our thoughts and our prayers." But, he said, "We're just going to keep on doing what we do and come to a conclusion on this." More than 100 people combed the rugged woodlands of the Ouachita National Forest until nightfall Sunday, said Mike Quesinberry, the head of the rescue effort for the U.S. Forest Service. Fletcher said one searcher was overcome by heat exhaustion in Sunday's sweltering temperatures, which ranged into the mid-90s with high humidity. Quesinberry said the last two bodies found have been in piles of wood, rock and other debris along the riverbanks, and those are now the focus of the search. Six dog teams were included in the rescue effort, and authorities were planning to bring in more dogs and new equipment, he said. "Some of these piles are just massive amounts of rock and debris," Quesinberry said. "It's unsafe to get individuals in there with chainsaws and those type tools, so we've got heavy equipment coming in." Funerals for two of the victims killed in the flash floods at a federal campground in Arkansas were scheduled for Tuesday. Services for Kylee Sullivan, 7, will be Tuesday morning, while her grandmother, Julie Freeman, will be buried that afternoon, Texarkana Funeral Home Director Kendall Hudson said. Authorities released the names of 15 of the dead Saturday, with six children among the victims, including one girl as young as 2 years old. Ages of the adult victims ranged from 23 to 69. Several groups of people with the same last name were listed. The victims identified were largely from Texas and Louisiana, with one person from Foreman, Arkansas. The warning system intended to notify campers on federal land about potentially devastating weather will be re-examined in Arkansas and throughout the nation, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said Saturday. | NEW: "There could be others" as search for flood victims goes on, governor says .
19 dead, 1 missing after Arkansas flood .
Debris piles hide bodies .
Funerals for two victims set for Tuesday . |
254,554 | d581468d16186622bbd9f5ada332d0e5854045e9 | England planned to welcome back an old friend on Sunday when Andrew Flintoff was due to join them at their practice at the Gabba for his first involvement with the national team since he limped away from the 2009 Ashes. Flintoff’s extraordinary comeback, which started with Lancashire last season and extended to the Brisbane Heat Big Bash team, now includes him putting in an appearance at England’s practice ahead of their tri-series game against India. Before anyone gets too carried away it should be stressed that Flintoff has been asked to join the England team by coach Peter Moores not to bowl but to chat to the younger players and allow them to pick his brains. Andrew Flintoff, pictured playing for the Brisbane Heat, will join England for a practice session on Sunday . Flintoff bays during the Big Bash League match between the Heat and Perth Scorchers . Flintoff remains one of the best death-ball bowlers in international one-day cricket over the last 20 years . It is felt that Flintoff, who has hinted that his comeback will come to an end after the Big Bash is concluded next week, will be a positive presence for a young England team still rebuilding after the upheaval of the last year. It is unclear whether Flintoff, who has struggled to make an impression with Brisbane, was going to take part in training but he remains one of the best death bowlers in one-day cricket of the last 20 years and could surely pass on a tip or two. The appearance of one of the legends of the 2005 Ashes series would give England a boost after their defeat in the tri-series opener against Australia and with them now desperately needing to beat India at the Gabba on Tuesday. Ian Bell (left) walks off after being dismissed during England's opening tri-series loss to Australia . They received another setback yesterday when it was revealed that Gary Ballance broke the little finger of his right hand during fielding practice in Canberra ahead of the tri-series against Australia and India. While it must be considered unfortunate that a player who has not featured in the first three games of this tour should pick up an injury England will not replace Ballance even though he is unlikely to be fit for the rest of the tri-series. England are confident that their reserve batsman will be fit for the World Cup so will give James Taylor every chance to cement his place at No3 rather than rush in a replacement player just for the last three matches of this series. Flintoff holds the 2005 Ashes aloft following the Oval Test match after the famous series . Eoin Morgan, England's one-day captain, top scored during the loss to Australia with 121 runs . Someone who still maintains he would welcome a call-up, unlikely though it is, is Kevin Pietersen, who yesterday became the highest scorer in the Australian Twenty20 competition this season when he hit 67 from 42 balls In Melbourne Stars victory over Sydney Thunder. Yet there was no rush here to call in Pietersen to a net session as Moores and Stuart Broad, who extended the invitation, have done with Flintoff. Meanwhile Yorkshire, the county champions, face a battle to keep hold of their highly rated coach Jason Gillespie as it emerged that South Australia want to take the former Australia fast bowler home to Adelaide. Gillespie has been an outstanding success at Headingley and is settled in Leeds with his family but will face a severe test of his loyalty to his adopted county if South Australia follow up their interest with a firm offer. England batsman Gary Ballance has fractured his finger but will play in the forthcoming World Cup . Jos Buttler (left) appeals unsuccessfully for the wicket of David Warner, who went on to reach a century . | Andrew Flintoff will join an England practice session on Sunday .
Ex-England all rounder will offer advice to young bowlers at the Gabba .
Gary Ballance has broken his finger and will miss remainder of tri-series .
England play India in Brisbane in second ODI of series on Tuesday .
Kevin Pietersen smashed 67 not out for Melbourne Stars on Saturday . |
45,404 | 7ff758da4ecbe45eca9627e0ddff6885bd5710e3 | By . Paul Revoir . Fed-up viewers have told the BBC to stop moving events from channel to channel, saying it is wearing them out trying to keep up. Some sports such as the cycling road races and gymnastics have been switched from BBC1 to other channels, such as BBC3, or viewers have been redirected to one of the corporation’s 24 dedicated Olympics channels. Critics claim that once the broadcaster starts showing a sport on a channel, it should stick with it. Switch-over: Gymnastics has been one of several events where viewers have been asked to change channel to continue watching mid-way through the excitement . Others admitted they had not realised the sport they had been watching had been switched and they ended up missing large chunks of it. The BBC is operating 24 dedicated channels showing all the action from every event on satellite and cable. But many viewers access the coverage through the two main channels – BBC1 and BBC3 – which have been changing events in the middle of the coverage. One viewer wrote on the BBC’s message-board: ‘I’m trying to watch the bike race here! It started on BBC 1, moved to BBC 3 and now is moved to the Red Button! ‘Stop doing that! I feel like I’m participating in the Olympics, chasing after the TV channel.’ Another said: ‘This is becoming a nasty habit with the BBC and I absolutely hate it! It’s like watching a TV with your kid in charge of the remote.’ Others took to Twitter to complain. One sports fan tweeted: ‘Ughhh, was streaming the gymnastics on BBC1 and it switched to BBC3 and the stream I have for that doesn’t work.’ Another added: ‘Didn’t realise gymnastics switched to BBC3, been watching horse riding for about 20 minutes.’ A BBC spokesman said: ‘Every event is live and uninterrupted on the BBC’s 24 Olympic channels, which have proved enormously popular and are being watched by millions. ‘On BBC1 and BBC3, we go to the best of the action, which occasionally means we will switch events between channels. ‘But this is the first time people can use the red button to find full live coverage of anything they choose and that can also be recorded.’ | Critics claim once broadcaster starts showing event, it should stay on same channel .
BBC operating 24 dedicated channels showing all the action from every event . |
264,244 | e24202fcc4f70b7abadb9cc7e19269241aa58177 | A young koala is in recovery after suffering second-degree partial thickness burns on all four of his paws from the devastating bushfires in South Australia. Heartbreaking images of Jeremy the koala have gone viral since he was treated at Australian Marine, Wildlife Research and Rescue Organisation (AMWRRO) yesterday. It was a timely reminder that the bushfires have also destroyed the homes of our native wildlife. While carers say it's too early to predict whether Jeremy will make a full recovery, he is currently 'doing very well and is in great spirits'. Scroll down for video . A young koala is in recovery after suffering second-degree partial thickness burns on all his four paws from the raging bushfires in South Australia . Heartbreaking images of Jeremy the koala have gone viral since he was treated at Australian Marine, Wildlife Research and Rescue Organisation (AMWRRO) yesterday . Aaron Machado from AMWRRO told Daily Mail Australia Jeremy, aged about two-years-old, is still in a critical condition. 'He's in a lot of pain and severely dehydrated but he's stabilised and doing okay for now,' he said. 'So he's being closely monitored by carers at this stage. 'We're unsure whether we can expect a full recovery from him. But he certainly has the potential.' Aaron Machado from AMWRRO told Daily Mail Australia young Jeremy, aged about two-years-old, is still in a critical condition . While carers say it's too early to predict whether Jeremy will make a full recovery, he is currently 'doing very well and is in great spirits . This comes as Wednesday saw the biggest firefighting effort since the fire began on Friday afternoon, with a total of 31 aircraft and 110 trucks on the ground. There were 600 firefighters worked to battle 40 degree temperatures and 30 kilometre per hour winds on Wednesday, in an effort to take control of the raging bushfires. Country Fire Service chief officer Greg Nettleton confirmed that 95 per cent of the fire has been contained by Wednesday afternoon, with only two ‘hotspot’ areas of concern remaining. Over 12,500 hectares of land has been destroyed or damaged in the blaze so far, including 32 homes, 125 other buildings and four businesses. As of Wednesday morning, over $13 million worth of insurance claims had been lodged by vicitms. | Jeremy was suffering second degree, partial thickness burns to all his paws .
He was treated at Australian Marine, Wildlife Research and Rescue Organisation yesterday .
The koala is now being closely monitored by a carer and is doing okay .
The sixth day of the inferno was see the biggest firefighting effort since the fire began on Friday afternoon, with 31 aircraft and 110 trucks .
A total of 32 houses, 125 other buildings and four businesses have been damaged or destroyed so far and 134 people have been injured . |
71,345 | ca37b6e917c0f3e6a40ba0f4ddfe6af533c8de50 | (CNN) -- A bill that requires cruise ships to tighten security measures and report alleged crimes is awaiting President Obama's approval. The Senate on Wednesday passed the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act, after it received broad bipartisan support in the House with a vote of 416-4 last year. Peepholes on cabin doors, rails no lower than 42 inches and information packets on how to report crimes are some of the changes commercial cruise passengers can expect to see after the legislation takes effect. Ships built after the legislation's passage also must be equipped with security latched and time-sensitive key technology. The bill, authored by Rep. Doris Matsui, D-California, and Sen. John Kerry, D-Massachusetts, applies to all ships that dock in U.S. ports. Those ships will also be required to immediately report incidents to the FBI or the U.S. Coast Guard, whether the incident occurs on the high seas or at port. "Current law doesn't pass the test of providing common-sense security measures to the traveling public or to help protect them from crimes committed aboard ships," Matsui said in a statement Wednesday. "Moreover, current law does not provide the support victims and their families need in the event of a disaster. This legislation is critical to providing the security and safety measures that all Americans need and deserve." The legislation originated with a letter from one of Matsui's constituents, who said she was raped during a Royal Caribbean cruise by a crew member in February 2006. Laurie Dishman, who has gone public with her story before Congress, claims representatives of the cruise line made her collect sheets and clothing from her room and put them in a plastic bag. They did nothing more to help her, she said, and the FBI later told her that it would not investigate further because without proper evidence, it was simply a "he said/she said" case, according to her testimonial on the internationalcruisevictims.org. Since then, a number of high-profile alleged assaults, disappearances and homicides have helped earn support for the legislation, Matsui spokeswoman Mara Lee said. Last year, a Los Angeles-area man was charged in July with murder in the death of his wife while on a cruise along the Mexican coast, and an Alabama woman celebrating her 50th birthday disappeared from a Carnival Holiday cruise ship. Among the provisions in the bill related to sexual assaults: Ships are required to carry rape kits and a supply of medications to prevent STDs, along with medical staff trained to deal with assaults. The legislation also requires cruise ships to provide passengers with free, confidential access to 24-hour sexual assault hot lines. Vessels also must keep a log of incidents and contact the nearest FBI field office "as soon as possible" after a homicide, kidnapping, assault or disappearance of a U.S. national is reported. "Safety protections in this bill will significantly reduce passengers' risk of sexual assault and expand the rights of those sexually assaulted on board," said Scott Berkowitz, president and founder of the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network. "By connecting cruise passengers with the support services available through the National Sexual Assault Hotline and Online Hotline, this legislation provides a vital lifeline for victims on cruise ships." Matsui's office worked with the cruise ship industry in crafting the legislation, spokeswoman Lee said. "Having a law that's not going to be carried through wouldn't make sense, so we've worked with them to make very common-sense requirements that they can put in place," she said. Many of the requirements have already been implemented by the cruise ship industry, which has been working for years to improve passenger safety, said Oivind Mathisen, editor and co-publisher of the trade publication Cruise Industry News. "This basically means that procedures that they have been implementing for the last several years have been formalized," he said. "The industry supports it because it's in its best interest that procedures are set down, so in case something happens, everybody knows what to do and there are no gray areas." Mathisen said negative backlash against the industry generated by the disappearances of newlyweds and young revelers is undeserved at times, considering that anywhere from 12 million to 15 million people board commercial cruises each year. "If you look at the total numbers, relatively few people are lost at sea. In the big picture, the numbers are small. But we understand that when you lose a loved one, there's not enough the industry can do to prevent it from happening again." | Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act calls for peepholes on cabin doors, higher ship rails .
Ships must carry rape kits, STD medications, medical staff to treat sex assault victims .
Bill also requires cruise ships to quickly report incidents to FBI, keep detailed logs .
Legislation applies to all commercial cruise ships that dock in United States . |
64,921 | b85528e4837cb3a6452bb5af5a395518126a68f5 | Singer Chris Brown and a bodyguard were arrested Sunday morning and charged with felony assault, the Washington Metropolitan Police Department said. The arrest could have serious legal consequence for Brown, 24, since he is serving probation for the felony domestic violence conviction relating to his 2009 attack on former girlfriend Rihanna. Brown and bodyguard Christopher Hollosy allegedly attacked a man with their fists outside the W Hotel in downtown Washington at 4:25 a.m. Sunday, police said. The police incident report obtained by CNN identified the alleged victim as Isaac Adams Parker, 20, of Beltsville, Maryland. Parker did not immediately respond to a CNN call for comment. Parker told police that he tried to jump into a photo that Brown was posing for with a female fan on the sidewalk when the singer said, "I'm not down with that gay s--t" and "I feel like boxing," the police report said. Parker said that Brown then punched him in the face with his closed fist, the report said. Parker said Brown's bodyguard -- who stands 6-foot-5 and weighs 240 pounds -- stepped between them and punched Parker in the face, the report said. The bodyguard then grabbed Brown by his arm and pulled him toward his tour bus, which was parked near by, it said. Brown and the bodyguard were taken into custody and were being held at the Second District police station, police said. Both men were later transferred to a central jail cell block for processing, police said, . Parker was treated and released at a hospital for treatment for a bruised and swollen face, police spokesman Anthony Clay told CNN. Brown was in Washington to host a "homecoming party" at The Park at Fourteen nightclub Saturday night, according to his Twitter feed, just four blocks away from where he was arrested Sunday morning. His representative and lawyer did not immediately respond to CNN calls for comment Sunday. Brown is on probation in California for a felony domestic violence conviction involving Rihanna. Any arrest could be considered a violation of that probation, which could result in jail time. Prosecutors filed probation violation charges against him twice in the past year, resulting in the judge ordering him to complete an additional 1,000 hours of community service. In August: Brown ordered to 1,000 hours community labor . Brown was arrested in February 2009 for punching Rihanna inside a rented Lamborghini on a Hollywood street. The altercation left the face of Rihanna, also a chart-topping singer, bruised and bloody on the eve of the Grammy Awards. He entered a guilty plea seven months later and was sentenced to serve five years probation and ordered to spend more than 1,400 hours in "labor-oriented service." His probation reports were glowing until the past year, when the district attorney's office accused him of not completing the 1,400 hours of community labor, which he was allowed to do in his home state of Virginia. Brown calls out Jay-Z in new interview . He was also accused of hit-and-run after a minor traffic crash earlier this year. The driver of the other car told investigators that Brown "went ballistic" and screamed at her after his Range Rover rear-ended her Mercedes on a Los Angeles street. In August, Brown's lawyer reached a settlement with prosecutors to end their efforts to revoke his probation. The deal called for Brown to complete another 1,000 hours of community service. Probation rules require Brown to stay out of all legal trouble. Even an arrest that does not lead to a conviction could result in a probation violation charge. He is scheduled to appear before Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge James Brandlin on November 20 for a probation status hearing. Chris Brown thinking of quitting music? | Alleged victim says he was attacked when he tried to get into a photo with Brown .
Brown allegedly said "I'm not down with that gay s--t"
Brown and a bodyguard were booked at D.C.'s Second District police station .
Brown is on probation for a felony domestic violence conviction involving Rihanna . |
60,647 | ac5f7e8313cc5263872b549fa7946395961d63b5 | DUBLIN, Ireland (CNN) -- Irish voters are going to the polls again Friday -- to vote on a treaty they rejected just over a year ago. Prime Minister Brian Cowen gets out the 'vote yes' message in Tullamore. But this time round, opinion polls indicate the "yes" campaign to adopt the Lisbon Treaty and its rules for governing an expanded European Union will be successful. The EU has made assurances to Ireland that the Lisbon Treaty will not affect the country's abortion laws or its neutrality and that Ireland will keep a European Commissioner. In the weeks leading up to the vote, Dublin was awash with posters for both sides of the emotional argument. "Yes" posters reminded voters how much Ireland has benefited financially from being inside the European Union. "No" placards questioned whether Ireland will lose its military neutrality, its anti-abortion laws and its minimum wage despite the EU assurances. Just more than half -- 53 percent -- of Irish voters said "No" to the Lisbon Treaty in June 2008, throwing the future structure of the European Union into doubt as all member states have to ratify the treaty before it can be adopted. Lisbon is the plan to modernize the EU's structure after it expanded to 27 members, with most of the new member states coming from Eastern Europe. Ireland has just one percent of the EU's population but its "no" vote effectively stopped adoption of the Lisbon Treaty across the continent. So, the Dublin government is holding another referendum Friday in the hope of this time getting a "yes" vote. No other EU citizens have been allowed to vote on the treaty as national parliaments have ratified the treaty. And to date only Poland and the Czech Republic governments have held up the final passage of the treaty in their own countries. But Ireland's constitution mandates citizens must be allowed to vote on any major changes to its own governmental structure. A handful of Dublin taxi drivers told CNN they would vote no because they see no reason to give to Brussels the powers that Ireland fought hard to wrestle away from Britain. "No" campaigner Brendan Young, from a group called People Before Profit, put it bluntly: "People having had experience of benign British presence don't want to be going fighting Britain's wars, or anybody else's." But the "no" campaign is a rag bag of groups that have little in common. Young says he is pro-Europe but does not want Irish tax money to pay for Europe's military structure. To illustrate the diverging political viewpoints in the "no" campaign, Young was not happy that the United Kingdom Independence Party was in Dublin and on his side. UKIP is an anti-European Union, British party and it finds itself on the same side as Sinn Fein, the anti-British, nationalist party. Conservative anti-abortion catholic groups also press the "no" case. "When I see the UK Independence Party join up with Sinn Fein and religious extremists, I must be on the right side," laughed Michael Wall, a "yes" campaigner. He said he volunteered to hand out leaflets because he says last year the pro-Lisbon Treaty lobby took a "yes" for granted. He says by talking about what is actually in the treaty -- a document most people last time round admitted they had not read -- he has changed minds. "I have met a lot of people on the campaign who voted no the last time. Voted no out of anger, voted no because of the arrogance of politicians who put their faces on the posters when the issue wasn't about, say, local elections," Wall said. "A lot of people have changed their mind and I think they should be given that opportunity" by getting to vote a second time. But Ireland is going through one of the worst recessions of any developed nation since the 1930s. There are no green shoots on the emerald island. Property prices have collapsed, unemployment doubled in a year and for the first time in nearly 20 years, emigration is back. The government is very unpopular and the business community worries this will influence voting. "The biggest concern is that it will be a "no" on the basis of people's anger about domestic policy issues rather than the treaty itself," says Patricia Callan, of the Small Firms Association. Business is at the fore of the "yes" vote this time around. At the U.S. tech giant Intel, Jim O'Hara, its General Manager of Ireland, said he had to persuade his boss this vote was critical. "I had to go and convince the Intel Corporation," he said. "And quite frankly Paul Otellini, when I spoke to him, the CEO, wasn't that particularly interested in the issues. I convinced him that it was good for Ireland and good for our business in Ireland." Results are not expected until Saturday. | Ireland votes on treaty covering expansion of European Union .
Voters rejected treaty in 2008 but have new EU assurances this time .
A 'no' vote would delay, and possibly kill, implementation of the treaty EU-wide .
Opinion polls indicate the 'yes' campaign will succeed this time . |
106,952 | 15f61008fa0ec7f7ab34d0922fa1d0104c7d85eb | Athletes and spectators from Britain will be the target of ‘Russia’s Osama Bin Laden’ at next month’s Winter Olympics, a secret intelligence report warns. The document, drawn up by Canadian counterterrorism agencies and shared with British intelligence, says Doku Umarov poses the greatest terror threat for the Games at Sochi in southern Russia. Umarov, 49, is the Chechen jihadist leader blamed for the two suicide bombings in Volgograd in Russia over Christmas. A document, drawn up by Canadian counterterrorism agencies and shared with British intelligence, says Doku Umarov poses the greatest terror threat for the Games at Sochi in southern Russia . The warlord leads Imarat Kavkaz (IK) – an armed group fighting to impose Islamic rule in Russia’s North Caucasus, the mountainous region that borders Sochi. The heavily-redacted report, compiled by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service and seen by The Mail on Sunday, says Umarov has called for attacks on what he calls the ‘satanic games’. The report warns: ‘Doku Khamaiovich Umarov is a fervent Islamist who espouses AQ’s [Al Qaeda’s] ideology of global jihad. ‘His view that Israeli, US and UK interests are legitimate targets raises concerns that any Westerners could be targeted.’ It adds: ‘Umarov appears to have consolidated his leadership but questions remain over the extent cells will follow his lead – especially as some IK commanders eliminated by Russian counter terrorism efforts are being replaced by younger, less experienced fighters.’ Umarov, 49, is the Chechen jihadist leader blamed for the two suicide bombings in Volgograd in Russia over Christmas . Russian emergency workers and investigators at the site of the wreckage of a trolleybus after an attack by a suicide bomber . British intelligence, led by MI6, is now working closely with Russian intelligence organisations to counter the threat. Britain broke off security co-operation with Russia in the wake of the murder of Russian spy Alexander Litvinenko in 2006. But in November this year, MI6 confirmed they were now working with the FSB, Russia’s security service, ahead of the Sochi games. A Whitehall source said that security surrounding British citizens attending Sochi was of ‘paramount concern’ and confirmed Britain and Russia were working closely on the issue. Last Tuesday Sebastian Coe, the British Olympic Association chairman, revealed the BOA was monitoring ‘closely’ events in Russia after 31 people were killed in the two explosions in Volgograd. | Doku Umarov 'poses the greatest terror threat for the Games at Sochi'
Claims made in a document by Canadian counterterrorism agencies .
Report says Umarov called for attacks on what he calls ‘satanic .
games’ |
100,978 | 0e1ecab0d12f831cf082b2e4eeafaa172340bd0c | One young woman's first experience of a music festival ended in tears on Saturday when she left the event with blood-soaked clothes and four stitches in her head. Sarah Watts Glidden was attending the Adelaide Stereosonic festival at the weekend, dancing in the crowd with her friends while listening to electronic artist Uberjakd play his set. Out of nowhere, the 19-year-old was hit with a flying glass bottle leaving her with a nasty gash on her forehead from which she was quickly losing blood. 'I didn't see anything at all but just felt and heard the big smack on my head,' Ms Glidden told Daily Mail Australia. Scroll down for video . Sarah Watts Glidden was at Stereosonic music festival in Adelaide on Saturday when she was hit by a glass bottle, presumably thrown into the crowd by another partygoer . The wound was 'gushing' and 'squirting' blood, and resulted in Ms Glidden being given four stitches in her head . 'I can't recall what I was thinking but I put my hand on the wound and blood was gushing absolutely everywhere.' Covered in her own blood the teenager said she was rushed out of the crowd by two of her friends - Ashley and Stacey - when the trio were fortunate enough to bump into first aid officers. They took Ms Glidden to the medical tent but paramedics had trouble stopping the bleeding, estimating she had lost more than half a litre of blood due to the injury. A medic put four stitches in her head on the spot, and the 19-year-old will likely be left with a permanent scar from the injury. The teenager was attending the second day of the two-day festival, and had planned to take it easy as she was heading overseas the next morning . However she was left covered in her own blood and will likely have a permanent scar from the injury . The paramedic that treated the teenager said the injury caused arterial bleeding, while Ms Glidden's friend Ashley said 'at one point when I took my hand off (the wound) that it legitimately squirted'. 'Looking back on it it's terrifying. I was really just having a great time and out of no where it happened,' the Adelaide woman added. 'I guess because of the shock I didn't notice any pain to start off with, it was really the sound and the feeling that hit me. 'Seeing the blood down my arm and legs made me understand the seriousness off it. During the time I was pretty light headed and dizzy as well.' Paramedics had trouble stopping the bleeding and estimated Ms Glidden lost more than half a litre of blood . The injury has ruined her family holiday to Bali, and means she wont be able to participate in any activities she was looking forward to . Ms Glidden said Ashley saw the bottle that hit her - identifying it as a small container of Jack Daniel's whiskey. Aside from ruining her first music festival experience, the injury has also put a dampener on the woman's overseas holiday. Ms Glidden had decided not to drink and instead drove herself to the event as she was heading on holidays with her family the next morning. On Sunday morning she left for a trip to Bali with her family to celebrate her brother graduating high school, but she will no longer be able to take part in many activities she was looking forward to doing. Mr Glidden (left) said she was simply enjoying herself with friends when the bottle 'came from nowhere' 'I can't really swim as I can't get any of their water on the laceration,' she revealed. 'I won't be able to wash my hair, we are going to Water Bom Park (a water amusement park) but I'll again have to watch or go in areas where I can't get wet.' In a post to Facebook Ms Glidden urged others to think about their actions when taking glass into festivals - something that is banned at such events due to its potential to cause such harm. 'Please please please, think twice about what you smuggle. And if you're gonna do it - put the glass in a bin,' she wrote. 'If you're going to throw something then you're simply an idiot. Please consider the repercussions of your actions,' the post concluded. | Sarah Watts Glidden was at Stereosonic music festival in Adelaide .
While dancing in the crowd she was hit in the head by a flying glass bottle .
Friends rushed her to the first aid tent where she was given four stitches .
Ms Glidden left her first ever music festival soaked in her own blood . |
109,704 | 19672a38cc5259854acf16e3c4fd30ac388ee2b2 | By . Joe Bernstein . and Sami Mokbel . Follow @@SamiMokbel81_DM . Luke Shaw will seek talks with Southampton over his future after their final game of the season against Manchester United on Sunday. Shaw, 18, is the subject of interest from several leading clubs in the Premier League and abroad and wants to know whether Southampton will allow him to leave. The left-back is valued at £30million and is a candidate to be named in Roy Hodgson’s England World Cup squad on Monday having made his international debut earlier this year. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Luke Shaw serenaded by Southampton fans . Talks: Luke Shaw will discuss his future with Southampton after the final Premier League game of the season . So far, Shaw has put speculation about his future to the back of his mind to concentrate on playing for Southampton but with the season drawing to a close, he doesn’t want a summer of uncertainty and is now seeking clarification from his current club. Chelsea and Manchester United are expected to lead the bidding for the young defender who has already played 66 first-team games even though he doesn’t turn 19 until July. Liverpool, Manchester City and Real Madrid also have an interest in Shaw, who is believed to be keen on a new challenge though he will want to be confident of playing regularly at any club he joins. The teenager has shown huge loyalty to Southampton in recent years, making a name for himself as one of the brightest talents in the country in the process. Wanted: Shaw, pictured challenging Wayne Routledge, is high on the radar of both Man United and Chelsea . But with England's elite clubs, in particular Chelsea and Manchester United, in the market for left-backs this summer, there is a feeling that this will be the summer he finally departs. The urgency to sign Shaw is unlikely to be as intense beyond the summer transfer window if Chelsea and United sign alternative left-backs, an issue that his advisors are aware of. Sevilla's Alberto Moreno and Atletico Madrid's Filipe Luis have been scouted by both clubs. Scouted: Atletico's Filipe Luis and Sevilla's Alberto Moreno have both been watched by Chelsea and United . Southampton may be forced for financial reasons to break up the impressive young squad they have assembled at St Mary’s. The club posted a net loss of £7.1m in their last set of financial figures and will enter the summer window owing £27m in outstanding transfer fees. A bill of £30million will also be due for their new training ground and director Han Hofstetter has admitted: ‘It is a burden that has to be covered and will be covered.’ An added complication is the future of manager Mauricio Pochettino. The Argentine, very popular with Southampton’s players, has just one year left on his contract on the south coast and is on Tottenham Hostpur’s shortlist to be their new manager. Italian giants AC Milan are also interested in Pochettino. Popular: Southampton boss Mauricio Pochettino is on Tottenham's shortlist to be the club's new manager . | Luke Shaw is valued at £30million .
Shaw wants to know whether Southampton will allow him to leave .
Youngster is a transfer target for several leading clubs in the Premier League and abroad .
Left-back is a candidate to be named in Roy Hodgson's England World Cup squad on Monday . |
233,136 | b9d3c45a6b8db6b97ec2a157133e2c16755bdf2a | A relaxed Saturday morning atmosphere reigned at Camp David today as ten of the world's most powerful people huddled in a log cabin in the Appalachian Mountains. Gone were the ties and furrowed brows of a busy week, cast aside for open-necked shirts and cosy woollens as the likes of David Cameron, Barack Obama and Russia's Dmitri Medvedev sat back amid the idyllic Maryland setting. Looking at the pictures from today's meeting, it is almost hard to believe these were the leaders of the G8 nations grappling with the problems of soaring oil prices and the eurozone on the brink of collapse. Dress down: The eurozone may be in crisis but David Cameron looked remarkably laid back at the G8 Summit, pictured alongside a grinning Russian PM Dmitri Medvedev and German chancellor Angela Merkel . The Prime Minister and his U.S. counterpart kicked off their weekend in typically sporting fashion, taking to President Obama's gym for a bout of treadmill diplomacy. The president was said to have called for Mr Cameron at around 7.15am at his cabin - called Maple - at the picturesque retreat. After a session pounding the treadmills, the two men emerged still deep in conversation. They were seen walking back to the cabins around 7.50am. Officials attending the summit were coy about which man had been the more athletic performer - instead emphasising the intellectual content of their encounter. It seems Mr Cameron is not one to let the pressures of running the country get in the way of a little downtime. A new book describes his leisurely weekend lifestyle, which apparently finds him indulging in the odd frame of snooker, a few glasses of wine with Sunday lunch or even a spot of karaoke. In the biography, entitled Cameron: Practically a Conservative, a friend says of the PM: 'If there was an Olympic gold medal for ‘chillaxing’, he would win it.' Idyllic setting: Talks begin between the leaders of (clockwise from lower left) Japan, Italy, Canada, France, the U.S., the UK, Russia, Germany, the European Council and the European Commission . Relaxed: (from left) Italian Prime Minister Mario Monti, U.S. President Barack Obama, David Cameron and Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev listen cheerfully to German Chancellor Angela Merkel during the G8 Summit at Camp David, Maryland . True to this casual outlook, Mr Cameron met with his fellow world leaders in a grey jumper with a checked collar underneath, while on either side of him, Mr Obama and the Russian Prime Minister Mr Medvedev sported blue, open-necked shirts. The first working session of the G8 Summit came after officials had worked through the night to find an agreed form of wording on the eurozone issue for the final summit communique. Following his preparatory talks with Mr Obama, the Prime Minister signalled that the G8 leaders were ready to tackle soaring oil prices. Mr Cameron said action was needed to protect world economies. 'We are addressing here the two biggest threats to all our economies and that is, of course, the eurozone crisis but also the very high oil prices that translate into high prices at the pumps,' he said. 'We are making progress on both.' Picturesque: Angela Merkel and her aides arrive at Camp David, set high in the Appalachian Mountains, for a bilateral meeting with Mr Medvedev . Back to nature: Chancellor Merkel (second from right) and Mr Medvedev (right) hold talks over coffee in Camp David's idyllic woodland setting . Mr Cameron said the summit - which brings together the leaders of Britain, the United States, Germany, France, Italy, Japan, Canada and Russia - was an opportunity for the non-eurozone nations to press the currency bloc to resolve its problems. 'Particularly on the eurozone, what is required is a sense of urgency and then clear actions for strong banks, strong deficit reduction plans, strong governance and strong contingency plans for whatever might happen,' he said. 'On all those things I think there's a good sense of talks taking place and a good sense that action needs to follow. 'The G8 can't instruct the eurozone what to do but why meetings like this matter is that eurozone countries can hear from countries outside the eurozone whose economies are affected. Enjoying the view: President Obama shows his fellow leaders round the Camp David retreat on a sunny G8 Summit Saturday . Keep up, Cameron: Mr Obama and Angela Merkel (in purple) lead the pack as the G8 representatives stroll through Camp David . New addition: Recently elected French President Francois Hollande (left) shares a joke with the U.S. President as Angela Merkel and David Cameron line up on the lawn . 'It's very important these messages get across but I would say there is a growing sense of urgency that action needs to be taken, contingency plans need to be put in place and the strengthening of banks, governance, firewalls, all of those things, need to take place very fast.' Mr Cameron refused to be drawn into criticising German Chancellor Angela Merkel for blocking a rescue package for the eurozone. However, he indicated that he would like to see the European Central Bank do more to stimulate demand. 'I think the German chancellor is absolutely right that every country needs to have in place strong plans for dealing with their deficits,' he said. 'Growth and austerity aren't alternatives. You need a deficit reduction plan in order to get growth in order to have the low interest rates that we have in Britain and are vital for the future of our economy. 'But clearly, just as Britain benefits from a strong government with a strong deficit reduction plan and strong banks but also an independent monetary policy giving us low interest rates, helping to push demand in the economy, so the eurozone, I believe, needs that approach as well.' First ladies' meet: As the Group of Eight gathered in Camp David, Michelle Obama hosted some of the leaders' spouses for a tour of the White House in Washington, DC . Houseproud: Mrs Obama shows off some of the artwork kept at the President's residence. The tour marked a first appearance for Valerie Trierweiler (right), partner of the new French president Francois Hollande . | Eurozone crisis tops the G8 Summit agenda at President Barack Obama's mountain retreat in Maryland . |
183,119 | 792fae89be0567623205f908142adf6f2bfdc708 | By . Beth Stebner . PUBLISHED: . 19:38 EST, 25 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 21:54 EST, 25 March 2013 . They’ve handled every kind of horsepower – from race horses to revved engines. A gas station in Queens, New York has remarkably been open for 145 years and has changed throughout the centuries from a blacksmith shop to an auto body shop, and is now run by the founder’s great-great grandson. John Farrington, 56, co-owns Farrington Service Station with his brother Michael and said it has been a pleasure to be an institution in the neighborhood for nearly a century and a half. Fuel for thought: Farrington's Service Station in College Point opened in 1868, three years after the end of the American Civil War . Old timey: John Farrington's great-grandfather pictured with his race horse; the station began as a blacksmith shop that made custom horseshoes for race horses . New management: A picture of the station when it was operated under Sinclair . Speaking with MailOnline from his home in College Point, Mr Farrington was bursting with pride to speak of the family business, which was established only three years after the end of the American Civil War. ‘The gas station was started by my great-great grandfather William Farrington, but my great-grandfather John Farrington stands out the most,’ he said, adding that it was his great-grandfather who is in the majority of pictures that line the shop’s interior. The business started out as a blacksmith where Farrington would create specialized racing horseshoes and fit them to the horses’ hooves. The owner was also an avid racer himself, and owned several horses. The first John Farrington was born in 1873, and took over the family trade around the turn of the 20th century. It was this Farrington who saw the surge in popularity with the new-fangled ‘horseless carriages,’ which, of course, evolved into the modern-day motorcar. The service station, as it exists now, is not the original building, Mr Farrington said. ‘We think from the things we’ve seen on the records that around 1917 to 1920, they converted to a gas station, because cars started taking over in the area.’ When MailOnline visited the site, Mr Farrington was not at the shop, which was staffed by brothers Doug and Fred Otto, who have worked at the station for the last 30 years, Fred as Farrington's Service Station Manager and Doug as a pump attendant. Somewhere out there: The service station is located in the College Point neighborhood of Queens and is only accessible by car or bus . If walls could talk: The interior of the station shows dozens of old black and white pictures documenting the station's rich history . Brotherly love: Doug, left, and Fred, right, are brothers who have worked for Farrington's Service Station for the last 30 years; Fred as Farrington's Service Station Manager and Doug as a pump attendant . He said they ripped down the old blacksmith shop to build the new gas station. A second building was constructed next door during the Great Depression to house more vehicles. Mr Farrington said that his luck has everything to do with the common sense that previous generations taught him. ‘We’ve gone from horses to gas stations, we’ve gone through depressions and recessions. We believe in putting (money) away in good times and saving it for the bad times.’ He continued: ‘My grandfather used to always say, you always gotta run scared, because it’s when you don’t worry about something that you forget about the lean times. 'They came through the Depression, and they never forgot those kinds of things. If we ever had money for business, my grandfather would always pay it off twice as fast.’ The Farringtons have a history in New York spanning several centuries – before the U.S. had even been formed. Mr Farrington said that 10 generations back, a Farrington served as Magistrate for the area that is now College Point. Varied history: Fred Otto, Farrington's Service Station Manager, has worked for Farrington's for the last 30 years . Hot to trot: Specialized racing horseshoes made by the first John Farrington are displayed in the building . On the job: Fred Otto answers a call at the station . Growing up in the working middle-class neighborhood, Mr Farrington remembered spending his childhood alongside his brother at the gas station while their father, George, ran the business. 'My grandfather always said never sell your luck, so we have no intentions of getting rid of the station.' ‘It was nice,’ he said. ‘In the 60s, when they had the Hot Rods and the racing cars, and everybody came in with their fancy Nomads, the GTOs. They used to come into the gas station – we loved that because we’d go for rides.’ The gas station, he explained, became a popular hang-out spot, where car owners could get a tune-up, a check-up, or even $2 worth of gas, which in the day, went a lot farther. ‘When I was really young, gas prices were all over the place. I remember at one time 35 cents a gallon, probably in the late 60s. I remember going out as a kid, asking for $2 of gas. The pumps then were so slow, you felt like you were standing there forever,’ he said. Then: The station after they switched to Gulf as a fuel provider; they've also operated under Sinclair and BP . Now: An exterior view of Farrington's Service Station and George Farrington's home behind the station . Their father passed away this Valentine’s Day at the age of 83. The son said that he is running the family business to pay homage to him. The station has also been through several providers, beginning with Sinclair, moving on to BP, and finally settling on Gulf. He told the New York Post that things began getting tough in the past few years, with skyrocketing delivery costs through Gulf that threatened to put the family-owned business in the red. But Mr Farrington found a friend who sells him gas directly, allowing him to sell his 70,000 or 80,000 gallons per month at 10 to 15 cents lower than any of his competitors. It's electric: A neon sign showing the establishment date is displayed in the window; Mr Farrington said that he'll wait and see what the future brings with the advent of electric and hybrid cars . Major award: The College Point Board of Trade presented this plaque to the station in 2001 after 133 years of support to the community . Give or take: Doug, one of Farrington's Service Station pump attendants, wears a Farrington's jacket with a Ford Model T embroidered on it, saying it was founded before the Civil War . ‘It’s been beneficial for us to work together,’ Mr Farrington said. ‘Gasoline doesn’t make you a lot of money today, but we did it for our customer’s sake,’ he said, adding that generations of College Point residents look to the family business as a neighborhood institution. He said he doesn't know of any other gas station in the city with such a long and unique history. As far as the future is concerned, Mr Farrington said he’s waiting to see what happens with hybrid and electric cars. ‘It’s too vague right now for the future, but we own the property. If everything changes and we start landing helicopters, or if it’s like the Jetsons with flying cars whizzing down the street, we’ll adapt to it,’ he said, noting that his family has been malleable to the changing times. ‘My grandfather always said never sell your luck, so we have no intentions of getting rid of it.’ | Farrington Service Station has been owned and operated by same family since its opening nearly 150 years ago .
Now in its fifth generation within Farrington family .
Opened as blacksmith shop that outfitted racing horses but transitioned to gas station in early 1920s . |
246,776 | cb5e10d952be3251b9f6ac5413e46ec4b9437051 | Kabul, Afghanistan (CNN) -- Former warlords, village elders and women are among the members of an Afghan peace council designed to spearhead "serious, substantive dialogue" efforts with the Taliban opposition. The Afghan government Tuesday announced the members of the High Peace Council that will spearhead reconciliation efforts. "They will be the sole body to take care of the peace talks and the government of Afghanistan will respect their mandate and will not try to create back channels or to try to duplicate the work of the high council for peace," Waheed Omar, Afghanistan's presidential spokesman, told CNN. A U.S.-led invasion overthrew the Taliban government after the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks on the United States, carried out by the al Qaeda terror network, which was harbored by the Taliban. As the war ground on, talk emerged of contact between both sides. "So far as contacts are concerned, yes -- over the past years there have been signs and signals from the armed opposition. There have been contacts on both sides but all of that remains on the level of contacts and signs and signals," Omar said. "There is no substantive negotiations or substantive dialogue with the armed opposition. And we hope that after the establishment of the peace council which was established today, we will enter into a serious substantive dialogue with the opposition." Sixty men, eight women and two other women still to be named will serve on the panel, which was set up to help end the long war between coalition and Afghan forces and militants from the Taliban. President Hamid Karzai recently announced the creation of the panel. The presence of women on the board is significant because the Taliban persecuted women when the movement controlled the country and have targeted institutions such as girls' schools during the insurgency. Rachel Reid, an analyst for Human Rights Watch, said the list contains "too many names here that Afghans will associate with war crimes, warlordism and corruption." "This is a disappointing outcome for Afghan women and girls," said Reid. "Women are once again being short-changed. The government had promised them more robust representation than this." Omar said the group is "large" because the mandate is big. "I'm sure that once the peace council starts working, they will have specialized groups working in different directions," he said. | Women are part of the Afghan peace council .
One analyst said too many names will have negative connotations .
There have been contacts between both sides . |
8,186 | 172a83e31be04816afa95453ee5395518a2d1771 | An al-Qaeda linked terror group has issued a chilling propaganda video threatening Western shopping centres and singling out 'Jewish owned' Westfield malls as targets. In a 76-minute long message issued overnight, a masked militant purportedly from the al-Shabaab organisation encouraged Islamic fundamentalists to strike at shopping centres around the world. Dressed in military fatigues, the spokesman named complexes owned by Frank Lowy's Australian group as among potential targets, dwelling on two Westfield malls in East and West London. 'If just a handful of mujahideen fighters could bring Kenya to a complete stand-still for nearly a week, just imagine what the dedicated mujahideen could do in the West to American or Jewish shopping centres across the world,' he said. Scroll down for video . Chilling: A new video, apparently released by Al-Shabaab, calls for 'Westgate-style' attacks on shopping centres including two malls owned by the Australian company Westfield in London . Westgate siege: Donning a camouflage jacket with a headscarf covering his face, the fighter threatens action and refers to the group's 2013 siege on Kenya's Westgate Mall (pictured), in which more than 60 people died . Return fire: Shortly after the Westgate Mall incident in September 2013, Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for the attack. More than 60 people died, while around 200 people were injured. Above, police in the shopping mall . ‘What if such an attack on the Mall of America in Minnesota or the West Edmonton mall in Canada or in London’s Oxford Street. Or any of the hundred or so of the Jewish owned Westfield shopping centres. ‘Take the Westfield shopping centre in (London's) Stratford or White City for example, what would be the implications of such an attack, one can only imagine. ‘All it takes is a man with firm determination, of which our Muslim ummah (community) has plenty of. ‘So hurry up and hasten to Heaven and do not hesitate.' A Canadian shopping complex and the Mall of America - the United States' biggest shopping centre, - were also listed as targets. No specific threats were made to Australian shopping centres. Fighter: Sitting in front of a black background, the unidentified militant (pictured) says: 'If just a handful of mujahideen fighters could bring Kenya to a complete stand-still for nearly a week, just imagine what the dedicated mujahideen could do in the West to American or Jewish shopping centers across the world' Running to safety: In the newly-released video, Al-Shabaab describes the attack, complete with images of terrified men, women and children running through the mall for their lives. Above, people escape the mall . Terrifying: Shoppers are pictured crawling across the floor as they try to escape the mall in September 2013 . Westfield was co-founded by Sydney resident Mr Lowy and operates scores of complexes in Australia, the United States and United Kingdom. Daily Mail Australia has approached Westfield for comment about whether any precautions are being taken in Australian centres. Shortly following the bloody September 2013 attack, al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for the Westgate siege which left 67 people dead and hundreds injured. In the newly-released video, al-Shabaab runs a documentary-style account of the deadly attack, complete with images of terrified men, women and children running for their lives through the mall. The footage, posted online by the terror group, includes images of terrorist activity and discusses Kenya's military intervention in Somalia. The masked militant then appears on-screen and suggests a range of attacks on the Western targets. U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson has warned visitors to the Mall of America to remain vigilant. 'If anyone is planning to go to the Mall of America today, they've got to be particularly careful,' he told CNN. Targeted: The Mall of America (pictured) in Bloomington, Minnesota, is America's largest shopping center. It boasts 40million visitors a year and contributes nearly $2billion in annual economic activity to Minnesota . Crowded: 'I would say that if anyone is planning to go to the Mall of America today, they've got to be particularly careful,' Mr Johnson said on CNN's 'State of the Union.' Above, the busy interior of the mall . Popular: The militant also encouraged radicalised Muslims to target Oxford Street (pictured) in London, England . Mentioned: The masked militant also calls for assaults on West Edmonton Mall (pictured) in Alberta, Canada . | Westfield shopping centres singled out in terror group video threat .
Threat was released by the al-Shabaab jihadist organisation who were responsible for the bloody 2013 Westgate siege .
The Australian shopping company co-founded by Frank Lowy owns scores of stores in Australia, the UK and the United States .
'Just imagine what the dedicated mujahideen could do in the West to American or Jewish shopping centres across the world,' jihadist said .
Malls in America and Canada were also listed as potential targets by the group . |
84,491 | efb2fb9e915a2efbc57598944d9dbcde9b889d31 | By . Sarah Michael . A student in New Zealand has photographed two mysterious objects floating in the night sky above Otago Harbour, which he believes may be UFOs. Terence Huang, 25, took the images in Dunedin in the country's south on Monday night but only noticed the two objects when he uploaded the photos to his laptop on Tuesday. Mr Huang, originally from China, said he was with a friend when he set up his camera to take about 20 photos, but he didn't look as the images were snapped. Terence Huang, 25, took photos of what he believes could be two UFOs floating above Otago Harbour in Dunedin on Monday night . 'I had a brief look at the photos last night, but it was late and cold so we went home,' Mr Huang told the Otago Daily Times. Mr Huang, originally from China, said he set up his camera to take about 20 photos but he didn't look as the images were snapped . Mr Huang said he had always believed in UFOs and the photos only strengthened his theory. 'Maybe in the future we will take more photos there to see if there is anything in them,' he said. Australian Skeptics UFO spokesman Steve Roberts said photos featuring UFO-like objects were usually the result of a 'lens flare' from a source of light. 'Especially with digital cameras you get all sorts of effects,' Mr Roberts told MailOnline. 'It can be light from the sun bouncing around in the lens. 'You especially see it at night, even more so from a street light or any sharp, bright source of light.' Mr Roberts said these 'orbs' were not visible to the naked eye and only showed up in photos. | Terence Huang snapped mysterious objects floating above Otago Harbour .
The 25-year-old student, who lives in Dunedin, believes they may be UFOs .
Mr Huang set up his camera but didn't look as the images were snapped . |
243,364 | c6f51766f1cd538f52055681e75dc2e15b237b05 | BEIJING, China (CNN) -- Every day, tens of thousands of fertilized hen eggs are delivered to Sinovac laboratories in Beijing. Each egg is infected with the H1N1 virus, then incubated for three days. White-coated employees examine every egg individually before the virus is extracted and used to make a vaccine. Vials of H1N1 vaccine before they are labeled and packaged. Sinovac Biotech Ltd. was the first company in the world to successfully complete clinical trials for an H1N1 vaccine. It was also the first company approved by the Chinese government to produce millions of doses for the public. China is set to become the first country to begin mass inoculations sometime around the beginning of October. According to Sinovac CEO Yin Weidong, the secret lies in years of vaccine research and development. Sinovac was the first and only company ever to create a vaccine for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), the worldwide pandemic that left almost 350 people in China dead. The SARS vaccine was never used. By the time it was discovered, the outbreak had subsided. However, the breakthrough has enabled Sinovac to stay ahead of the curve. Watch as the H1N1 vaccine is produced » . "The SARS vaccine helped us achieve the H5N1 (bird flu) vaccine, which helped us get the H1N1 vaccine," says CEO Yin Weidong. "That's why we could be so fast and be the first." Since Sinovac's success, at least two other Chinese companies and several around the world have also produced H1N1 vaccines. China has reportedly ordered 3.3 million vaccines from Sinovac, 4 million from Hualan Biological and another 3 million from the Shanghai Institute of Biological Sciences. According to Yin, the main challenge for China will be providing enough vaccines for everyone. "A country with 1.3 billion people needs 1.3 billion vaccines," he says. Watch report on China's inoculation preparations » . The Chinese government has long warned an outbreak of H1N1 could be catastrophic in a massive country with an underdeveloped health system. In recent weeks, the instances of H1N1 infections have risen dramatically throughout the mainland. There have been more than 9,000 cases of the H1N1 virus in China so far, and more than half of them have happened in the last few weeks alone. "It's basically affected all provinces of China and we're worried because of the sheer number of people involved," says Vivian Tan, communications director for the World Health Organization in China. "It's moving from the urban and coastal areas into more rural remote areas." According to the WHO, the rapid acceleration of H1N1 is occurring in part because flu season is starting, the weather is cooling down and school is back in session. More than 80 percent of China's swine flu cases have occurred in schools or due to school-related activities. China has had perhaps the most extreme and active response to the virus than any other country in the world. For months, masked Chinese officials have boarded international flights upon arrival, checking all passengers' temperatures and administered health surveys before granting entry. Thousands have been quarantined, including entire flights and school groups. Health authorities have heavily publicized the risks posed by the virus and rolled out a Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatment plan, as an alternative to the vaccines produced by Sinovac and others. Yet, some Chinese citizens remain skeptical that a vaccine is even necessary in the first place. "It doesn't seem like my baby is going to catch the swine flu," says one mother at a hospital in central Beijing. "And what if it affects his health in the future? I'm just going to avoid crowded areas." Like any vaccine, the WHO has warned the H1N1 vaccine may have negative side effects. Sinovac plans to track and test patients for several years after vaccinations are administered to determine if there are any dangers. Ultimately, in China, the central concern remains that the H1N1 virus itself could expand and spin out of control. According to Tan of the WHO, "I think one of our biggest fears is that (the H1N1 virus) could re-assort with the H5N1 avian flu virus that's out there, to create this 'superbug' which is both easily transmissible, quite lethal and quite deadly." | Inside the Chinese lab that has created world's first H1N1 vaccine .
Sinovac Biotech Ltd is first company approved by the Chinese government .
The company will now produce millions of doses for the public .
Sinovac got headstart after creating a vaccine during SARS pandemic . |
216,342 | a41297010612611a48a63e499ea8d099a1f34eb2 | (CNN) -- Detroit police have arrested a man suspected to be the rapist who "terrorized" women on the city's Northeast side, the police chief said Monday. Raynard Coleman, 31, was taken into custody without incident last Wednesday, after DNA evidence tied him to six of seven assaults that have taken place in the city since January 1, Chief Ralph Godbee said. Police believe the suspect targeted the females, ages 17 to 33, as they waited at or were walking near bus stops. The victims were taken to nearby vacant buildings and assaulted, according to the chief. Detroit police set up a 24-hour operational command post, which was manned by a specialized joint task force, to receive tips about the attacks, Godbee said. Tips also came in on Facebook, he said. The police chief credited teamwork from people in the community and the combined efforts of local, state and federal law enforcement agencies for helping in the search for the rapist. "Every person in this department, community, outside of the community, they were extremely engaged in this process," the chief said. "There is no person in the Detroit metro area that this didn't touch." Godbee also recognized the victims for coming forth to report the crimes. Without their descriptions, he said, police would not have been able to release a composite sketch to the public. The charges against Coleman, who has no history of sexual crimes, include kidnapping, aggravated assault, criminal sexual conduct, armed robbery and felony with a firearm, according to Jerry Dorsey IV, with the Wayne County prosecutor's office. If convicted, Coleman could be sentenced to life in prison, Dorsey said. | Raynard Coleman, 31, is accused in six assaults in Detroit, the police chief says .
Coleman targeted females waiting at or walking near bus stops, Chief Ralph Godbee says .
Charges against Coleman include kidnapping and criminal sexual conduct, official says . |
107,152 | 162fff074409f8c478af5c6533db201a7b17a379 | By . Kerry Mcqueeney . PUBLISHED: . 08:36 EST, 8 October 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 11:29 EST, 8 October 2012 . TV host David Letterman sparked anger when he suggested Presidential candidate Mitt Romney was a 'felon' over his taxes. The Late Show host told his audience 'we have a felon running for president' during a discussion over poll results which showed 6 per cent of Americans wanted to see Romney's tax returns. His comments came in spite of recently released IRS documents showing that Romney paid almost £2milliion in 2011 alone. Controversy: David Letterman, left, sparked anger when he suggested on his chat show that Mitt Romney, right, dodged taxes . He said: 'Yeah, . we want to get a look at those tax returns because I believe we will . discover that the man has not paid a nickel in United States federal . income tax. 'That’s right, we have a felon running for . president.' In black and white: The letter from Price Waterhouse Coopers which was released by Mitt Romney . Rebuff: The letter showed that Romney paid an average of 20 per cent in taxes every year between 1999 to 2009 . It is not the first time such severe accusations have been made about Romney's tax status, Fox News reported. Stephanie Cutters, Obama's deputy campaign manager, suggested in July that it would be a 'felony' if Romney misrepresented information on federal documents when he left his company Bain Capital. In the same month, Romney was accused of not paying any taxes for 10 years by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, who cited an anonymous source and has not revealed where his information came from. However, in response to this, Romney released a letter from Price Waterhouse Coopers showing he paid an average of 20 per cent in taxes every year between 1999 to 2009. | TV host claims Presidential candidate 'has not paid a nickel' in federal income tax .
Letterman was discussing a poll which said 6% of Americans want to see Romney's tax returns .
His comments come in spite of recently-released IRS documents showing Romney paid $2m in tax 2011 . |
98,554 | 0ae60029858cf3e48b08bd423fa643b3d07c7f1f | (CNN) -- Keegan Bradley rounded off a triumphant rookie season by claiming the PGA Tour's Grand Slam of Golf in Bermuda Wednesday. Bradley held off a charging Charl Schwartzel of South Africa to win the prestigious end-of-season title by a shot after carding a level-par 71 on the Port Royal Golf Course. It left the American on four-under 138 for the two-round tournament which brings together the season's four major winners. Masters champion Schwartzel produced a best of the day six-under 65 but was ultimately undone by his first round three-over par 74. U.S. Open champion Rory McIlroy started the day in the joint lead with Bradley after their first round 67s, but fell away in blustery conditions to card a four-over 75 to finish in third place on level-par 142. McIlroy's Northern Ireland compatriot Darren Clarke was way off the pace as the British Open winner closed out a second round of 74 for nine-over 151. The 25-year-old Bradley, who turned professional in 2008, has enjoyed a remarkable first season on the PGA Tour, claiming the Byron Nelson Classic before his triumph in the PGA Championship where he beat Jason Dufner in a playoff. Remarkably, it was his first appearance in a major, only one of three golfers to achieve the feat. He kept his nerve as Schwartzel drew level through the turn after picking up five straight birdies. Bradley, who had bogeyed the opening hole, birdied the 10th to open up a one-shot lead over Schwartzel which he kept to the finish to claim the $600,000 first prize. "It was a lot more intense than I thought it was going to be," Bradley told gathered reporters after his victory. "Coming down the stretch, it felt like any other tournament that I played in. It was very, very intense, and I was nervous over that 5-footer to win." | Keegan Bradley wins PGA Grand Slam of Golf in Bermuda .
Rookie professional cards a level-par 71 for four-under 138 .
Charl Schwartzel one-shot back after brilliant second round 65 .
Bradley claimed PGA Championship in Atlanta to earn invite to prestigious event . |
141,228 | 42a0b77bf3bc9455fd3679e4d58d7c94a28b94c2 | By . Meghan Keneally . PUBLISHED: . 14:16 EST, 31 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 17:58 EST, 31 January 2014 . Laura Bush has spoken out against the superficial scrutiny given to the First Ladies and hopes the eventual First Gentlemen is given the same treatment. She said that while she thinks too much attention is paid to a first lady's hair and make up, 'I don't think we can get around it'. 'Maybe when we finally have a first gentleman. And maybe we should be that way about the first gentleman also, and really critique the way they look all the time—their choice of tie or their hairstyle or whatever. Or maybe their weight,' she said. Looking back: Former First Lady Laura Bush said that the first spouse should 'Stand back and be quiet' 'It'll be interesting when it finally happens what the First Gentlemen will do. I hope they take on men's health perhaps,' she said, making an underhanded slight at the pattern of initiatives that are seen as 'appropriate' for First Ladies to handle falls mostly in the realm of women's and children's health. Mrs Bush was interviewed by C-SPAN as part of their ongoing series of interviews with former First Ladies. In the clips released ahead of the full program, which will air on March 2, Mrs Bush dismissed the theory that those married to the President should receive a salary. 'I don't think so. There are plenty of perks, believe me!' she said. 'A chef, that was really great! I miss the chef. Highlight: Mrs Bush said that one of her favorite moments during her husband's terms was when she unexpectantly took over the speech at the White House Correspondents Dinner in 2005 . 'I think the interesting question really is not should they receive a salary but should they be able to work for a salary at their job that they might have already had and I think that's what we'll have to come to terms with. 'Certainly a first gentlemen might continue to work at whatever he did- if he was a lawyer or whatever he did. So I think that's really the question she should ask is should she have a career in those years that her husband is president in addition to serving as First Lady.' She talks at length about questions of protocol that will arise when a woman is elected president and her husband is given the title of First Gentlemen- but doesn't once mention the most likely candidate: former President Bill Clinton. She did have one key piece of advice for any first spouse, however. Breaking the mold: In her interview, Mrs Bush never explicitly names Bill Clinton as the potential 'First Gentleman' but he seems like the most likely candidate (with the Clintons and Mrs Bush seen here at a 2004 event at the White House) 'Stand back and be quiet,' she said with a smile. Mrs Bush is just the latest to be featured in the ongoing series, and her mother-in-law's turn came out earlier this month. In it, the elder Mrs Bush said that while she 'loves' Bill Clinton but not his politics. If she had her way, neither her son Jeb Bush nor Hillary Clinton would run for the White House in 2016- even though they are among the most likely candidates for their respective parties. 'I think this is a great American country, a great country, and if we can't find more than two or three families to run for high office that's silly because there are great governors and great eligible people to run,' she said in a new interview. 'I think the Kennedys, Clintons, Bushes- there are just more families than that.' Twice is enough: Barbara Bush said that should her younger son Jeb decide to run for president in 2016, that would be pushing the amount of time that one family had been in the White House . | Former First Lady also said that the President's spouse should not receive a salary for their work while in the White House .
Said that too much attention is paid to the First Lady's looks but 'I don't think we can get around it' |
138,319 | 3ee3b79889054a4310e7c34bc97f44912c3cd3e9 | Wilson Palacios stares at the ground and rarely looks up for half an hour. Conversations about the kidnap and murder of his youngest brother are a dreadful necessity in his life. ‘Things must change,’ he says. ‘We have to deal with these gangs.’ And that is why he talks. He speaks slowly and quietly to a translator. Across a long and painful discussion with Sportsmail, he will relive the nightmare of Edwin’s kidnapping by gangs in Honduras in 2007, the failed ransom exchange, the silence and the discovery of Edwin’s body 19 months later. Wilson Palacios took time to speak to Sportsmail about the kidnapping ordeal that changed his life . Palacios' brother was taken in 2007, and later murdered by a gang of kidnappers . He will also reveal for the first time that this ordeal was followed by a second kidnapping, when his sister-in-law and two nephews were taken hostage for a week in 2012. ‘There was no ransom paid that time,’ he says. ‘The police were getting close and we got my sister-in-law and nephews back after a week.’ He adds: ‘It is uncomfortable to talk about but I must because I want people to understand.’ The gang situation in Honduras is critical and Palacios believes the terrible details of stories like his – awfully common in Honduras – can help spread awareness and draw support. It is why he has requested this interview and why he has joined Kenco’s campaign to lure the teenagers of his homeland away from gangs and into coffee farming. Palacios moved to England in 2007, playing first for Birmingham, and then latterly for Stoke (pictured) The Honduran footballer has not only had to deal with one kidnapping - in 2012 his sister-in-law and two nephews were also taken for a fortnight . ‘I lived in La Ceiba and there is a gang there – 18th Street Gang - which is very active and one of the biggest gangs in central America,’ he says. ‘A lot of my friends ended up being part of it. They ended up there because there were no opportunities for these young people. No work, or hope - nothing. It was the easiest opportunity for a lot of people.’ In the context of a UN report from this year, Honduras has by far the world’s highest murder rate and 60 per cent of their population live below the poverty line. It’s a country through which 70 per cent of the US’s cocaine passes and is home to an estimated 36,000 young gang members. Palacios says: ‘Lots of my friends from school ended up like this. They had either been forced to join a gang or did it voluntarily because there was no other opportunity for them. A lot of them are dead now. ‘Often when friends disappeared for long periods of time, we would ask “Where is he?” It would become clear that they were in a gang or dead. ‘I had a stable, middle-class family. My father was a factory manager and my mother was a teacher. And I had football as a passion and possibility. If I didn’t it might have gone differently.’ Palacios challenges Stewart Downing to the ball during a Premier League match for Wigan in January 2008 . When his brother was kidnapped, Palacios and his family paid a ransom reported to be around £330,000 . The gang entered his life in October 2007, just months after the publicity of Palacios’s big opportunity in England. One of five brothers, four of whom became professional footballers, he left Honduras aged 23 for a trial at Arsenal. Then, on the back of Arsene Wenger’s endorsement, he was given a six-month trial at Birmingham. ‘My family were not particularly wealthy but because the gang perceived them to be wealthy they targeted them,’ he says. ‘It happened three months into my trial at Birmingham.’ Five gunmen broke into the family home, tied up Palacios’s parents and took Edwin, the youngest brother at 15, from his room. ‘I was training one morning and I remember very clearly,’ Palacios says. ‘I suddenly had a strange feeling in my gut. Palacios played for Wigan between 2008 and 2009, pictured here (right) tackling Emmanuel Adebayor . From Wigan, Palacios moved to Tottenham for £12 million, where he stayed until August 2011 . ‘I went to the dressing room and turned on my phone and saw I had missed a call from my older brother. I called and he told me our brother (Edwin) had been kidnapped. He said I had to stay calm. I said I am coming home but he thought that might make it worse. ‘I stayed but a month later I couldn’t deal with it and had to leave. I asked Steve Bruce for permission and he let me. I stayed there in Honduras for three months and negotiated with the kidnappers. ‘Negotiations lasted a year. They would put my brother on the phone. It was so hard. But we paid the ransom after a year and then we heard nothing.’ The ransom is reported to have been approximately £330,000. Palacios says: ‘My family went to a spot to pick him up – I was back in England by then. The kidnappers told us to drop the money and they would release him. We left the money but they never released him. My family waited for hours.’ In England, Palacios had followed Bruce from Birmingham to Wigan and then on to Tottenham for £12m in 2009. Palacios (left) challenges Man City's Javier Garrido in September 2008 . Palacios (right) challenges Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher in a Premier League match . ‘I played on without knowing what had happened to my brother,’ he says. ‘One day the police got in touch and told us they had possibly found the body. I was about to play an important game (away at Everton) in 2009 and I had to come back to Honduras.’ The call had come at 1am on May 9 and he waited in the team hotel’s lobby for six hours until Harry Redknapp was awake to ask permission to leave. Redknapp was left speechless by the gesture. Palacios has since rebuilt his life, naming his three-year-old son after his late brother. He revealed he went through the nightmare of a kidnapping again two years ago when his brother Jerry’s wife and their two sons were taken but released. Palacios’s career has hit a bump, though. The 30-year-old has not appeared for Stoke since playing at the World Cup in the summer and plans to leave in January. Palacios played at the World Cup in the summer for Honduras, pictured (left) against France on June 15 . Palacios, now at Stoke, has struggled to find first-team football under Mark Hughes and will look to move on . ‘In January I will be looking at other teams, hopefully in London,’ he says. ‘I think the team is doing well, but when the trainer (Mark Hughes) does not see eye to eye with someone it is difficult to play. I have no issues with the manager, this is just how football is sometimes. ‘There is not a lot I can do about it.’ The gang situation, or so he hopes, is a different matter. He runs his own initiatives at home and is paid no money to endorse Kenco’s campaign and relive awful memories. ‘Talking about what happened to my family is hard,’ he says. ‘But it is OK if it helps stop this problem that I know so well. Things must change.’ For more information on Kenco’s campaign, visit www.coffeevsgangs.com . | Wilson Palacios was born in Honduras, and has played football in England since 2007, when he joined Birmingham after a trial .
Just months after his introduction to professional football in England, his younger brother Edwin was kidnapped from the family home .
Five gunmen broke into the house, tied up Palacios' parents and took his 15-year-old brother .
Palacios and his family paid a ransom to the kidnappers reported to have been approximately £330,000, but his brother was murdered regardless .
That ordeal was followed by a second kidnapping, when his sister-in-law and two nephews were taken hostage for a week in 2012 .
Palacios has joined forces with Kenco's 'Coffee vs Gangs' campaign, unpaid, to raise awareness and help to try and deal with the gangs . |
232,703 | b94e4fdea15a8c725093889e15370933e0458600 | Seven men sought by police investigating racist chanting at a mainline station following a Chelsea Champions League football match earlier this month have all been identified, police said. Britsh Transport Police (BTP) said they would be interviewed in due course. BTP had released images of seven men taken at St Pancras International station in London at around 8pm on February 18. The British Transport Police released images of seven men, believed to be Chelsea supporters, who arrived back in St Pancras Station following their return from Paris after last week's Champions League footage . Officers confirmed they had identified seven men in the CCTV footage and will interview them 'in due course' Passengers travelling through the station complained over the allegedly racist chants as Chelsea fans returned to London following their Champions League match against Paris St Germain. It is the second investigation into allegedly racist chanting involving Chelsea fans attending the same game. This was the day after an incident on the Paris Metro before Chelsea's match with Paris St Germain when a man was subjected to alleged racist abuse. In a statement today, solicitor John Kaye, who has been engaged by Chelsea fan Jamie Fairbairn, 23, said his client had accepted being among those in the carriage of the Metro train in Paris during the incident involving a black man, Souleymane Sylla, on the evening of February 17. He added that Mr Fairbairn denies preventing Mr Sylla from boarding or using words of a racist or threatening nature, and also denies saying anything of a racist nature during his visit to Paris or later at St Pancras. He said Mr Fairbairn was not even present during the alleged racist chanting incident at St Pancras. The solicitor added that media interest in the story had forced Mr Fairbairn to move away from his home and he had been suspended from work. 'On behalf of Mr Fairbairn, I have been in contact with the Metropolitan Police to offer Mr Fairbairn's assistance as a witness,' Mr Kaye said. | British Transport Police issued CCTV grabs of seven men for identification .
Police wish to speak to the men about allegedly racist chanting in London .
The men were returning from Paris following last week's Chelsea game .
BTP confirmed they have identified the seven men and will speak to them .
This follows a separate probe into an alleged racist incident in Paris . |
125,937 | 2ece3be8a41404213e466c69d7fa8084f448ff5e | Paul Lambert has spoken to Roy Keane over the phone and remains firm friends with his former assistant at Aston Villa. Keane reportedly turned up at Tom Cleverley’s house to confront the midfielder over claims a bust-up with players led to his departure from the club. But Lambert has also spoken to Cleverley, ineligible for Saturday’s match against Manchester United, and been told the incident did not happen the way it has been reported. Paul Lambert (left) remains good friends with his former assistant Roy Keane (right) Keane reportedly confronted Tom Cleverley over reports about the manner of his exit from Villa Park . Keane (left) pictured in his role as assistant manager of Republic of Ireland with Martin O'Neill . The Villa manager, who has repeatedly stressed as nonsense speculation that a row preceded Keane leaving, had a conversation with Keane on Wednesday night, and a brief word with Cleverley on Thursday morning. Lambert said: 'I think if Roy took a strand from his beard it would be a story. Roy’s a good pal of mine and there’s no problem. 'I spoke to Tom for probably three seconds. He assured me that things hadn’t happened in the way they have been portrayed. 'Tom assured me there’s no problem. He’s perfectly relaxed about it. It’s finished.' | Roy Keane left Aston Villa role to focus on job with Republic of Ireland .
Keane allegedly had a number of bust-ups with senior players .
Keane reportedly tried to confront Tom Cleverley over the allegations . |
266,425 | e514798b86fded2980fa92609c8bb47c179acad5 | Buyers snapped up more than £200million worth of property in the hours after George Osborne announced sweeping changes to stamp duty. The Chancellor’s reforms on the transaction tax in his Autumn Statement sparked one of the busiest periods for estate agents in 25 years. One overseas buyer saved £1.4million in stamp duty when contracts on a £30million house in Surrey were exchanged just 15 minutes before midnight on Wednesday – after which the new rules applied. Scroll down for video . Books editor Louise Bolotin will pay just £99 in stamp duty following a complete reform of the tax system. The first-time buyer is in the process of buying a spacious £129,950 one-bedroom flat in a Grade II listed converted warehouse in Manchester’s city centre. At 53, Miss Bolotin was only able to buy her own home when she inherited some money. Saving: Books editor Louise Bolotin (left) is in the process of buying a spacious £129,950 one-bedroom flat in a Grade II listed converted warehouse (right) in Manchester’s city centre . She said that now her stamp duty bill had been slashed from £1,290 to just £99, it will make the moving process less painfully expensive. Miss Bolotin, an editor for financial books, said she will use her windfall of almost £1,200 to buy a new bathroom. She said: ‘This has come at the perfect time for me. The offer was agreed two or three weeks ago and I have just started the conveyancing process. ‘I am a massive winner from this. I knew I needed to do up the bathroom but now I can buy more expensive fittings. I’m very happy about the changes, as you might imagine.’ The sale of a second £30million house – in upmarket Hampstead in London – went through at 11.30pm. Estate agents are predicting a property boom in the run-up to Christmas and into the New Year as families raise their offers and first-time buyers realise they could afford to buy sooner. The new system will replace the unpopular ‘slab structure’, that led stamp duty to be labelled ‘the worst designed tax in Britain’, with a gradually increasing rate. The changed rules – said to benefit 98 per cent of buyers – mean the so-called ‘cliff edge’ where the tax was charged on a whole value of a property is replaced by gradually rising charges in a string of bands. It means someone buying an average-priced home worth £273,000 will be about £4,500 better off. Yesterday the switch triggered a flood of calls to solicitors and estate agents as sellers and buyers rushed to capitalise on the change. First-time buyers Chris Pacey and Katie Vincent were delighted to discover they will save £780 after their stamp duty bill was reduced. The couple have had an offer accepted on a £172,000 three-bedroom home in East Leake, Loughborough, and hope to exchange contracts on Monday. Lab technician Miss Vincent, 30, and her boyfriend, a manager of a food store, have been living with her parents for three years to save enough money for a deposit. Bill reduced: First-time buyers Chris Pacey and Katie Vincent were delighted to discover they will save £780 . The couple have had an offer accepted on a £172,000 three-bedroom home in East Leake, Loughborough . But after finding their dream home, a three-bedroom detached house, they felt annoyed about paying a stamp duty bill of £1,720 – 1 per cent of the value of their home. Now, they will pay 2 per cent on only the portion above the threshold of £125,000, which comes to £940. Mr Pacey, 27, said: ‘We can use the extra money on home improvements. I think the new system is much fairer.’ Sellers who had been previously forced to undervalue their home to keep the price below stamp duty bands of £250,000, £500,000 and £1million are hoping to increase the sale price. Nick Riddle, at estate agents Eadon Lockwood and Riddle in Sheffield, said: ‘We have already received calls offering asking prices on 15 properties that had previously received lower offers. New mortgage rules caused a shock slowdown in the housing market, official figures have revealed. The small print of a report issued by the Office for Budget Responsibility describes how home loan regulations introduced in April caused sales to plunge by almost 10 per cent more than expected. Though the OBR does not say why this happened, previously experts have blamed banks and building societies for making it too difficult for borrowers to get a mortgage. Since April, homebuyers have faced a forensic probe into their personal finances before they are allowed to take out a loan. The shake-up, known as the Mortgage Market Review, was supposed to ensure that the irresponsible lending that led to the 2008 crisis was not repeated. But in its economic forecasts, the OBR said: ‘It appears that the regulations have had a larger and more persistent effect than we had assumed.’ Critics say the Mortgage Market Review has gone too far. The changes mean that instead of simply providing three months of bank statements as they did previously, borrowers must now go through a three-hour interview where every aspect of their savings and spending is probed. Brokers have reported borrowers being quizzed about how often they have friends over for dinner and if they ate steak. Banks say they are frightened of falling foul of the new rules. But the FCA has accused lenders of misinterpreting the rules and defying ‘common sense’. ‘Now that buyers aren’t burdened in the same way by outdated stamp duty fees, they are better placed to pay what the property is really worth.’ Kevin Hollinrake, of Hunters estate agents, based in North and East Yorkshire, said: ‘Minutes after the changes were announced we had two or three people on the phone increasing their offers by £5,000 or more because of the stamp duty saving. ‘We were working late last night and received well over 100 calls from clients within the first hour and a half of opening.’ While most buyers will be better off, stamp duty for homes over £937,500 has risen. Lawyers were paid bonus fees of up to £10,000 to get the paperwork finished before midnight to save their clients vast sums of money. Beauchamp Estate Agents said it pushed through sales on homes worth a combined £100million between the delivery of the Autumn Statement and midnight. Those who failed to exchange contracts on their property before midnight now face hefty stamp duty bills. A £2million home will cost £53,000 more than it would have two days ago. One buyer buying a £7.5million home in Knightsbridge faced huge disappointment after attempts to rush through a sale before midnight failed, costing them £288,000, according to Rokstone estate agents. But many more were successful. Mark Pollack, of London’s Aston Chase estate agents, said his team managed to get three multi-million-pound deals through before midnight. He said: ‘The last time I can remember a day of so much anxiety was when interest rates went up to 15 per cent in the 1980s.’ Simon Rose, of Strutt & Parker’s Chelsea office, said it was the busiest night that he could remember for 25 years, rushing through four sales of multi-million homes at the last minute. Trevor Abrahmsohn, of Glentree International, said sales of luxury homes would fall because of the 12 per cent stamp duty on homes over £1.5million. Instead, there would be a ‘boom’ in basement conversions as the rich chose to extend their homes rather than move. Your stamp duty bill may be reduced, but also getting the right mortgage is essential to making sure buying a home is as affordable as possible. There . are hundreds, if not thousands, of options out there, so, as well as . doing your own research, this is an occasion to search out expert . opinion from a good mortgage broker. First, read Mail Online's award-winning money section This is Money's regularly updated What next for mortgage rates? This outlines the current state of the market and highlights the current best buy deals. Then also check the top mortgage deals on offer currently in our best buy mortgage tables, or click through by using our helpful table (right). You should now be armed with some knowledge about what is on offer and you can use our True cost mortgage calculator to compare how different deals stack up. You should also talk to a mortgage broker. There is no obligation to go through with their recommendation and so . they may not end up actually arranging the mortgage for you, but they will be able to explain your options and . help you to find the best deal. Go a broker who offers advice from the whole market. Avoid . brokers who offer a restricted service based on products from a limited . number of lenders, and don't just simply go to your bank - unless you . get lucky, you will be unlikely to find the best deal this way . This . is Money has a carefully chosen partnership with mortgage broker London . and Country. We have picked them because they offer a good service, . with no upfront fees. Find about more about London & Country's fee free mortgage advice here. - Amy Andrew, This is Money . | An overseas buyer saved £1.4m in stamp duty on £30m house in Surrey .
Contracts exchanged just 15 minutes before midnight on Wednesday .
Sale of a second £30m house - in Hampstead - went through at 11.30pm .
Estate agents are predicting a property boom in the run-up to Christmas .
Families raise offers and first-time buyers realise they can afford to buy . |
46,347 | 829b1357ffc2d62f6d60c38ac623d99b48fc6e33 | Nottingham Forest defender Danny Fox has released a picture on Instagram of his newly-dyed beard, which he hopes will raise awareness for Cystic Fibrosis. The 28-year-old has made 12 league starts this campaign as his Forest side look to secure promotion to the Premier League. However, off the pitch, Fox has been an ambassador for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust since May 2012, and has taken the radical step of dying his facial hair orange to draw attention to the trust and the work they do. Danny Fox has dyed his beard the colour of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust logo to raise awareness . Fox's friend Paul Williams died of the disease at only 26 . Fox joins the Forest players on their visit to the Queens Medical Centre in Nottingham . The players have brought some much-needed cheer to the children . The players posed for pictures and sat with the children at the centre . Fox and his team-mates brought presents to hand out while on their visit . Fox was joined by the likes of Andy Reid (fourth from left) at the centre . Speaking after joining the trust, Fox explained his personal reasons for undertaking such a role. 'My really good friend Paul Williams died from this horrible condition at just 26 years' old in November 2012, the same age as me,' Fox said. 'We were devastated. Adam Clayton famously died his beard in his club's colours . Tim Howard has been in the Premier League a number of years, but has recently neglected his shaver . USA soccer star Alexis Lalas is as famous for his facial hair as his playing . The much-travelled Abel Xavier had some interesting facial hair while in England . 'It is through Paul's grit and determination not to let cystic fibrosis define him that I realized I should do everything I can to change things. 'I want to help raise awareness and funds to stop cystic fibrosis from cutting people off in the prime of their lives.' | Fox is an ambassador for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust .
He posted a picture of his dyed beard on Instagram .
The Scotland defender lost his best friend Paul Williams to the disease .
Forest will release details of a JustGiving page next week .
Cystic fibrosis affects over 10,000 people in the UK . |
278,508 | f4c7242ddadcf006b72b24023a1c1187463ffd82 | By . Luke Salkeld and Keith Gladdis . PUBLISHED: . 12:52 EST, 19 March 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 07:10 EST, 20 March 2012 . Could face jail: Liam Stacey, 21, admitted making racially offensive remarks about Fabrice Muamba on Twitter after the Bolton Wanderers footballer collapsed on the pitch during an FA Cup match . This is the university student facing jail for writing shocking racist internet messages after footballer Fabrice Muamba collapsed with heart failure. Liam Stacey admitted posting the comments on Twitter, which were forwarded to police by disgusted fellow users. The 21-year-old undergraduate could be thrown off his biology degree course after his fellow students launched a campaign to have him kicked out. Today Swansea University bosses confirmed they were investigating whether he should be disciplined. After pleading guilty to inciting racial hatred yesterday Stacey was released on bail on condition he stays off Twitter and other social networking sites. And he was warned by magistrates that all options would be considered when he is sentenced next week. His messages – which started with ‘LOL [laugh out loud]. **** Muamba. He’s dead!!!’ – provoked widespread revulsion and a furious reaction from several Premier League stars. Bolton player Muamba has been in intensive care since collapsing during Saturday’s FA Cup tie between his side and Tottenham. As the 23-year-old’s family monitor his condition, a wave of insensitive tweets have caused outrage. Yesterday Stacey appeared close to tears in court as the details of his comments were relayed to magistrates. Prosecutor Lisa Jones told a court: ‘Fabrice Muamba collapsed on the pitch and was believed to have died. Shortly after, Stacey posted on Twitter: “LOL [laugh out loud], **** Muamba. He’s dead.” ‘A number of persons on the site took issue with the posting and he responded to them furthering his message.’ She went on to describe Stacey’s racist comments directed at other Twitter users – some of who were black men – and which are too offensive to print. Former England footballer Stan Collymore, who was one of many who passed on Stacey’s messages to police, yesterday told his Twitter followers that officers were investigating other offensive material posted online. One user, registered as Chet Walken, from Houston, Texas, wrote a series of racist messages which provoked several footballers to call for his profile to be removed. QPR defender Anton Ferdinand and Sunderland defender Titus Bramble both appealed for their followers to petition Twitter to ban him from the site. Upsetting: Fabrice Muamba is treated by medical staff on Saturday after collapsing. A court heard that Liam Stacey, 21, posted mocking tweets as the midfielder was treated on the pitch . Shock: . Bolton manager Owen Coyle (left) walks alongside the stretcher as . medical staff take Fabrice Muamba off the pitch before he was transferred to hospital . Walken then responded bizarrely: ‘Why . am I getting all this hate mail? Makes me wish the USA would have just . let Hitler have his way with you ungrateful heathens.’ Former Liverpool striker Ryan Babel . accused Twitter itself of being racist if it didn’t suspend Walken’s . account within seven days. Another user, going by the name of . SuperAlex707, left a message saying ‘lets [sic] all lol at muamba [...] . hahahahahahah’. His profile had yesterday apparently been withdrawn from . the site. Stacey told police he had written his . own vile messages after drinking while celebrating the Welsh rugby . team’s Grand Slam victory on Saturday. He was arrested in the early . hours of the following morning at his home in Swansea. Magistrates heard how the student attempted to ‘distance himself’ from the comments by saying his account had been hacked into. And he sent a text message to a friend . saying: ‘I said something about Muamba that I shouldn’t have and . tweeted back to some people who abused me. ‘Getting police on me now which isn’t good at all.’ He later tried to delete his Twitter page. Swansea University said it . strongly disassociated itself from any racist tweets and had begun its . own formal disciplinary process into the matter. A spokesman said: 'We are an equal opportunities university and strongly disassociate ourselves from any racist tweets. 'We will of course co-operate fully with the police investigation. We have also begun our own formal disciplinary process.' A petition calling for him to be chucked out of the University now has more than 200 signatures. Twitter user Elliot Pawley said: 'Hopefully Liam Stacey will get kicked out of Swansea uni, people need to realise that what they can’t say/do anything on the internet!' The student union also distanced themselves from Stacey and his racist remarks. Student President Luke James said: 'We have a strong record of campaigning against racism. Our students have been united in condemning these comments.' 'God is in control': Shauna Magunda, right, . Fabrice Muamba's fiancee, has urged her Twitter followers to keep the Bolton . player in their prayers as he fights for life . | Liam Stacey is told he could be sent to prison for his comments on social networking site .
Swansea University student pleaded guilty to a racially-aggravated public order .
offence to incite violence .
Campaign launched to have him thrown off his course and university confirm they are investigating .
21-year-old's initial message on Twitter was posted just moments after Muamba had collapsed .
His tweets were reported by a number of Twitter users - including former England and Liverpool striker Stan Collymore .
Biology undergraduate .
admitted to police he had sent the tweets after getting drunk watching .
Wales v France in the Six Nations rugby match . |
180,001 | 750e1fc85b5403f8a52dd4449e6420bcbb13e5fd | (CNN) -- Mario Colao jolted out of bed at 3 in the morning. He was covered in sweat, his left arm was completely numb and his heart was pounding violently. He started crying because he was terrified of what was happening to him. That night in January 2010 was the third time in two weeks his sleep had been interrupted by heart attack-like symptoms, and he thought he knew why. "It's sad to say, but I felt like I deserved this because I never took care of myself," Colao says. He was 28, weighed 460 pounds and wore size 6X clothing. He knew his habits of binge drinking, smoking two packs of cigarettes a day and overindulging in food were slowly killing him. "I asked God to give me another chance," Colao says, "and I passed out." The Chicago native had been overweight since childhood. He was born into an Italian family where food was at the center of everything. His parents worked long hours, so his grandfather played a large role in raising him. In school, Colao was bullied because of his weight, and his grandfather was his only friend. But when Colao was 9, his grandfather died. He turned to food to comfort the loneliness he felt. "Food became a total escape," he says. "I always considered it my drug." The weight kept piling on through adolescence and beyond. At 18, he started smoking. He began to drink heavily when he was 22. All the while he continued to eat unhealthy foods day and night. On his blog, I've Said It All Before, Colao gives examples of some of his regular meals at the time. One included two burgers, a large soda, large French fries and chicken nuggets, totaling more than 2,400 calories. By 2010, Colao was drinking up to 10 drinks in one night and smoking two packs of cigarettes a day. But after those scary symptoms kept waking him up, he made a pact with himself to change. "I quit smoking and stopped eating everything that was bad," he says. Colao's parents bought him a treadmill because he was uncomfortable exercising in a gym. "That's what really helped me the most -- being able to gain the physical and mental stability and work out on my own," he recalls. He started by walking and slowly worked his way up to jogging and weightlifting. Colao overhauled his diet as well. He stopped eating fast food, fried food and red meat and drinking soda. He forced himself to get accustomed to healthy alternatives while allowing himself to indulge in small things so he wouldn't feel overwhelmed. He was motivated to change his eating habits by realizing how much time he would have to exercise to burn off the foods he was consuming. Over the first couple of months, Colao dropped 50 pounds. The loss drove him to continue, and he set a goal of losing 200 pounds. When he had lost down to 305 pounds, Colao went through a difficult breakup and eased up on his calorie counting and exercising habits. Six months later, he had gained back 40 pounds. Scared he would continue gaining weight, he got back on the wagon. "I ended up being so angry at how bad I had gotten again, that I forced myself to get back on track," he remembers. He began monitoring his caloric intake again and started exercising two hours a day, five days a week. As a reward for reaching his goal of a 200-pound weight loss, Colao booked a trip to Philadelphia to run up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art and re-create a famous scene from the movie "Rocky." He was on course to hit his goal when a foot fracture sidelined him for a few weeks. When the trip to Philadelphia approached, Colao had lost 185 pounds and was just shy of his goal. Regardless, he decided to go and run up those stairs. Colao finally hit his goal weight of 260 pounds in October. He still wants to lose another 20 to 30 pounds, but his focus has moved toward challenging himself with new exercises. He's also weightlifting to tone up some loose skin that has developed around his arms and stomach. Through his journey, Colao has found support and motivation in his parents and girlfriend, Julia Gonzalez. He says he still struggles to see himself in his slimmer body, and Gonzalez pushes him to look on the bright side. "I'm always going to be a positive voice for him to remember what a great thing he's accomplished," she says. "He inspires so many people. People see him, and they realize that they can do it, too." Colao is using his experience to become a certified personal trainer. "My main desire is to help people like me -- people that are obese and feel hopeless about the situation," he says. Four years ago, Colao could not tie his shoes without losing his breath. A few weeks ago, he did a push-up for the first time. In two months, he hopes to be a certified personal trainer and well on his way to helping others reach their weight-loss goals. | Mario Colao has lost 200 pounds in just under four years .
Three nights of heart attack-like symptoms made him realize he had to make a change .
He stopped smoking two packs of cigarettes a day and quit drinking excessively .
Colao plans to be a certified personal trainer and wants to help people like himself . |
220,125 | a8e8c5a78884f83289f20a2c1bd199a3347779f9 | ISIS admitted Tuesday it released a video of a man being beheaded before it was supposed to, it has emerged. Vocativ reported that the video - which allegedly shows the killing of Steven Sotloff - was shared through a Twitter account. @Khattabyaz warned the first account there had been a mistake, and failed to stop the beheading video from being disseminated, the website reported. According to the news site, ISIS then wrote on Justpaste 'A clarification about the mistake was made by "Uyun al-Ummah" account, that has published the video before the official time. 'The user saw a tweet with the video and thought it was published officially. We tried to remove the video after we understood that his was published by mistake, and we are sorry to the followers of the Islamic State.' In a later Twitter message, those responsible apologized and asked fellow jihadis not to 'reproach' them. Scroll down for video . Beheading: ISIS released a video which allegedly showed the beheading of freelance journalist Steven Sotloff before it was supposed to. The group later apologized to its followers . Retaliation: The fighter who apparently beheads Sotloff in the video calls it retribution for Obama's continued airstrikes against the group . The video footage - depicting what the U.S. called a sickening act of brutality - was posted two weeks after the release of video showing the killing of James Foley and just days after Sotloff's mother pleaded for his life. In the video, the man who appears to be Sotloff says 'I am Steven Joel Sotloff. I'm sure you know exactly who I am by now and why I am appearing before you. And now this time for my message: . 'Obama, your foreign policy of intervention in Iraq was supposed to be for the preservation of American lives and interest. So why is it that I’m having to pay the price of your interference with my life? Am I not an American citizen? 'You’ve spent billions of U.S. taxpayers dollars and we’ve lost thousands of our troops in our previous fighting against the Islamic State. So where is the American people’s interest in reigniting this war? From what little I know about foreign policy I remember a time when you cannot win an election without promising to bring our troops back home from Iraq and Afghanistan and to close down Guantanamo. 'Here you are now Obama nearing the end of your term and having achieved none of the above and seemingly marching us the American people into a blazing fire.' Barak Barfi, a spokesman for the family, said that the Sotloffs had seen the video but that authorities have not established its authenticity. 'The family knows of this horrific tragedy and is grieving privately. There will be no public comment from the family during this difficult time,' Barfi said. Sotloff, a 31-year-old Miami-area native who freelanced for Time and Foreign Policy magazines, vanished in Syria in August 2013 and was not seen again until he appeared in a video released last month that showed Foley's beheading. Dressed in an orange jumpsuit against an arid Syrian landscape, Sotloff was threatened in that video with death unless the U.S. stopped airstrikes on the Islamic State. In the video distributed Tuesday and titled 'A Second Message to America,' Sotloff appears in a similar jumpsuit before he is apparently beheaded by a fighter with the Islamic State, the extremist group that has conquered wide swaths of territory across Syria and Iraq and declared itself a caliphate. In Washington, State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said U.S. intelligence analysts will work as quickly as possible to determine if the video is authentic. 'If the video is genuine, we are sickened by this brutal act, taking the life of another innocent American citizen,' Psaki said. 'Our hearts go out to the Sotloff family.' Psaki said it is believed that 'a few' Americans are still being held by the Islamic State. Psaki would not give any specifics, but one is a 26-year-old woman kidnapped while doing humanitarian aid work in Syria, according to a family representative who asked that the hostage not be identified out of fear for her safety. The fighter who apparently beheads Sotloff in the video calls it retribution for Obama's continued airstrikes against the group. 'I'm back, Obama, and I'm back because of your arrogant foreign policy toward the Islamic State ... despite our serious warnings,' the fighter says. 'So just as your missiles continue to strike our people, our knife will continue to strike the necks of your people.' The killer specifically mentions the recent U.S. airstrikes around the Mosul dam and the beleaguered Iraqi town of Amirli, making it unlikely that Sotloff was killed at the same time as Foley, as some analysts had speculated. Over the weekend, Iraqi government forces with help from U.S. airstrikes broke the Islamic State's two-month siege of Amirli, a town where some 15,000 Shiite Turkmens had been stranded. The video footage - depicting what the U.S. called a sickening act of brutality - was posted two weeks after the release of video showing the killing of James Foley and just days after Sotloff's mother pleaded for his life . In a statement Tuesday evening from U.S. Central Command, military officials said an airstrike conducted Monday against Islamic State militants near the Mosul Dam damaged or destroyed 16 armed vehicles. The SITE Intelligence Group, a U.S. terrorism watchdog, first reported the video's existence. The Islamic State has terrorized rivals and civilians alike with widely publicized brutality as it seeks to expand a proto-state it has carved out on both sides of the border. In its rise to prominence over the past year, it has frequently published graphic photos and gruesome videos of bombings, beheadings and mass killings. Last week, Sotloff's mother, Shirley Sotloff, pleaded with his captors for mercy, saying in a video that her son was 'an innocent journalist' and 'an honorable man' who 'has always tried to help the weak.' Around the world: Sotloff is seen in Libya in this 2011 file photo . Mother: Shirley Sotloff pleaded with his captors for mercy last week, saying in a video that her son was 'an innocent journalist' and 'an honorable man' who 'has always tried to help the weak' Sotloff grew up in the Miami area, graduated from Kimball Union Academy, a prep school in New Hampshire, and then attended the University of Central Florida, which said he majored in journalism from 2002 to 2004 but apparently left without graduating. Just how Sotloff made his way from Florida to Middle East hotspots is not clear. He published articles from Syria, Egypt and Libya in a variety of publications. Several focus on the plight of ordinary people in war-torn places. In a statement, Foreign Policy magazine said it was saddened by news of his death and called him a 'brave and talented journalist' whose reporting 'showed a deep concern for the civilians caught in the middle of a brutal war.' Time Editor Nancy Gibbs said Sotloff 'gave his life so readers would have access to information from some of the most dangerous places in the world.' House Foreign Affairs Chairman Rep. Ed Royce, a California Republican, said the new video demonstrates the Islamic State's 'barbarity across the region - beheading and crucifying those who don't share their ideology.' He said the U.S. and allies need to step up military action against the group, including through airstrikes. At Sotloff's parents' home in Pinecrest, Florida., two police vehicles blocked the driveway Tuesday, and officers advised journalists to stay away. Friends of the family could be seen coming and going. 'Everyone's been concerned. Everyone is grieving,' neighbor Pepe Cazas said. 'It's terrible. I've been praying for him.' | ISIS admitted Tuesday it released a video of a beheading before it was supposed to .
The video - which allegedly shows the killing of Steven Sotloff - was shared by a Twitter account .
A separate account failed to stop the video from spreading before its intended release time .
ISIS wrote in an apology 'we are sorry to the followers of the Islamic State' for the error .
The U.S. has called the video a sickening act of brutality .
Sotloff, a freelance journalist, vanished in Syria in August 2013 and was not seen again until he appeared in a video released last month that showed James Foley's beheading . |
42,456 | 77b6da05980d9656f8c6bad558d900cdbd6ec64c | By . Rob Cooper . PUBLISHED: . 04:58 EST, 8 June 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 09:20 EST, 8 June 2012 . Two cage-fighting brothers who ran a drugs and racketeering empire in their hometown through 'fear' have been jailed for a total of 32 years. Anthony Diprose, 27, and his brother Jason, 26, exploited their terrifying reputations in the ring to build up their drugs network with 'iron fists'. Both men live a glittering high life and, according to police, had 'iconic' status in their hometown of Lancaster. Jailed: Jason Diprose, 26, left, and his brother Anthony, 27, who ran a drugs and racketeering empire in Lancaster, ruling the town through fear . Teetotal fitness fanatic Anthony - who 'regarded his body as a temple' - drove a Range Rover Sport and a BMW Five series and regularly went on holiday to Malaga, Spain. He spent £7,500 on a chunky gold chain, £5,000 on a Rolex watch and bought his fiancee a £5,500 diamond ring. He also wore Armani and Gucci clothes and rented a three-storey townhouse which was lavishly furnished and filled with designer items and a 50 inch television. Despite running a drugs empire, Anthony would regularly stop and talk to police officers on the beat, apparently believing he was untouchable. His younger brother Jason - who once caused the death of a four-year old boy dead in a hit and run crash - acted as Anthony’s enforcer and kept three fearsome Pit bull dogs. The brothers used military-style paraphernalia including pistols, Rambo-style hunting knives, Nato flak jackets and gold three-bladed knuckledusters as they ruled the Skerton and Ryelands estate in Lancaster. Arrest: Jason Diprose is put into the back of a police car as officers from Lancashire Police carry out coordinated raids on members of the gang. They have been jailed for a combined total of 67 years . Lavish: Anthony Diprose's Range Rover which he bought with the proceeds of his crime. He also drove a BMW Five Series and lived in a three-storey bachelor pad . Weapon: A blank-firing handgun which was seized by police as they raised properties across Lancashire . Chilling weapon: A samurai sword discovered by police which was used by the gang during their reign of terror across Lancashire . The pair encouraged children to shout: '*** the law' at police in the street and on the Ryelands estate was littered with graffiti inspired by the rap group NWA. In a text message Diprose boasted: 'I don’t trust no-one except my brothers. All the rest just do as I say and want to be me.' But the pair were arrested in raids on their homes in 2010. Eighteen other people were held and 14 of them were charged with various criminal offences. Anthony was found guilty of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs and an offence under proceeds of crime laws after a 14 week trial. Father-of-two Jason admitted conspiracy to supply class B drugs, conspiracy to supply class A drugs and fraud by false representation. The pair were given 16 years behind bars each. Superintendent Andy Webster, from Lancashire Police, said the pair operated a 'sophisticate drugs network'. 'Anthony Diprose is a muscular individual who put himself up as a cage fighter and used his aggression to intimidate people,' he said. Grim: The Ryelands Estate in Lancaster where brothers Anthony and Jason Diprose ran their drugs empire . Drugs haul: Some of the illegal substances recovered in Lancaster as police carried out their raids in July 2010 . 'Jason was very much seen as his enforcer. Both were living a lifestyle significantly beyond their means. 'Anthony lived a lavish lifestyle, he spent over £5,000 on family holidays to Spain and spent a significant amount of money on jewellery. His Range Rover Sport was expensive and luxurious. 'Yet was quite clear that he had no honest source of income. He had no tax returns yet the way he said he earned his money was a sham. 'He said he was a car dealer but when he was asked the mile per gallon for a Range Rover he couldn’t give the correct answer. 'He drove around Lancaster every day in his car and would go to the best jewellers in Lancaster. Anthony thought he was too far up the ladder to be caught and I think that is a good example of his arrogance and his belief that he was unattainable. 'He was the head and ran the group on fear and intimidation and his gang members were forced to do their job. Weapons were used to intimidate and to threat. They were used as enforcements if people did not pay for drugs. 'Anthony would go to the gym on a daily basis and spend two to three hours weight training and working on his muscles. Paraphernalia: A drugs press which was also seized in the raids. Jason and Anthony Diprose who ran the drugs network have been jailed for a total of 32 years . Enforcement: A flak jacked used by the brothers which was recovered by Lancashire Police officers during the raids . Haul: A Rolex watch that belonged to one of the Diprose brothers, left, and, right, a knuckleduster with a skull and crossbone on it . 'He would think nothing of pulling over at the side of the road and chatting with police officers as he honestly thought he was publicly that far removed from the gang’s activities. 'The Preston house was like a bachelor flat. He didn’t drink or smoke and his body was very much a temple. He was a fitness fanatic and did not go to casinos or clubs.' 'The gang had an iconic status but we built up the intelligence and had a very clear picture about the hierarchy of the group. We identified the safe houses, money launderers and dismantled it from the bottom up.' The brothers would use the same mobile phones for four weeks before switching them to avoid being detected. But CCTV footage showed a meeting between Anthony Diprose and two associates in his black Range Rover where large piles of cash were seen being passed over to him. Accomplices: Kenneth Smith, 23, who got four years in prison, and Brian Coulton, 20, who got five years, for their role in the drugs and racketeering network . Behind bars: Andrew Gunningham, left, who got seven years, and Aiden Higgins, right, who got four years . Locked up: David Threlfall, 28, who got 18 months, while Liam Parkinson, right, got seven years . During 12 raids officers recovered three firearms, ammunition, imitation firearms and a stash of cocaine. Gang member: Liam Wiper who got six years and nine months . Officers also recovered 'tick lists' which were effectively the dealers’ diaries and they would list all the people who wanted drugs. Superintendent Webster added: 'We have had really positive feedback from the public as the brothers’ activities have been going on for almost three years and has had a huge impact on the area. 'The estate now sees a low level of crime and feedback says there has been a change in the atmosphere in the area because we have been able to tackle this crime group. Andrew Gunningham, 30, Brian Coulton, 20, Kenneth Smith, 23, David Threlfall, 28, Aiden Higgins, 21, Liam Wiper, 24, and Liam Parkinson, 24 were convicted of conspiracy to supply drugs. Gunningham and Parkinson were each jailed for seven years, Wiper got six years nine months, Coulton got five years, Smith and Higgins each got four years and Threlfall got 18 months. Katie Noon, 24, a cousin of the Diprose brothers and her husband Paul, 30, their uncle Paul Lynch, 45, and his wife Rachel, 41, were all found guilty of money laundering. The Noons were both given six month suspended jail terms and each ordered to complete 50 hours of unpaid work. The Lynches were given a two year community order, a two year supervision order and 40 hours of unpaid work. | Anthony Diprose, 27, and his brother Jason, 26, ruled their estate in Lancaster through fear .
Anthony wore designer clothes, drove a Range Rover Sport and a BMW Five Series and lived in a lavishly-furnished three-storey bachelor pad .
Brothers used pistols, hunting pistols and Nato flak jackets as they ruled their estate through fear .
Brazen Anthony used to pull over and talk to police officers at the roadside - believing he was untouchable .
They are sentenced with 11 gang members for a combined total of 67 YEARS .
Brothers given 16 years in prison each at Preston Crown Court . |
126,276 | 2f3531ba6c51e5d5281bec835e2869745b746570 | (CNN) -- Chelsea's worrying mini-slump came to an end on Saturday, but it was not new signing Demba Ba or $80 million man Fernando Torres who fired the London club back up to third in the English Premier League. It was another forward who did the damage -- not only to his reputation, but also to Stoke's longstanding unbeaten home record. Jonathan Walters became just the fourth player to score two own-goals in a Premier League match, and possibly the first to also miss a penalty, as Chelsea cruised to a 4-0 victory at the Britannia Stadium. It lifted the pressure on manager Rafael Benitez after successive home defeats to the EPL's bottom team Queens Park Rangers and then in the first leg of the English League Cup semifinals against Swansea on Wednesday. "It was a difficult game, especially in the first half. We knew it would be," Benitez told reporters after his team closed to within 11 points of leaders Manchester United, who face Liverpool on Sunday. "We knew it would be physical and intense, but we were ready for that. The goal changed the game because they had to go forward and left space, which meant little by little we could control the game." The scores were level until first-half injury time, when Walters headed a cross from Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta past his own keeper. It got worse for the Republic of Ireland international in the 62nd minute, as he again headed past Asmir Begovic from Juan Mata's corner. Mata was brought down soon after, allowing veteran midfielder Frank Lampard to continue his scoring run with a penalty, and Eden Hazard sealed it with a superb long-range effort. There was still time for Walters to gain some redemption in his 100th EPL appearance but, given the chance to net his sixth league goal for Stoke this season after being fouled by the returning John Terry, the 29-year-old blasted his injury-time penalty against the crossbar. "Jon's fine. We look after people at the football club. It wasn't our day today, it was Chelsea's day," said Stoke manager Tony Pulis, whose 10th-placed team lost at home for the first time since February, a run of 17 games. Terry came on as a second-half substitute, having been out for two months with a knee injury. "I was trying to give him some minutes to see how he was," Benitez said. "I watched him in the reserve team but this is totally different, so we played five at the back and tried to protect him a bit. "We will see how he trains and if he has no problems, it is a question of fitness now." Fellow central defender Gary Cahill missed the match to be at the birth of his son. "The baby is fine and they are happy," Benitez said. Tottenham failed to stay in third place after being held 0-0 at QPR, now managed by former Spurs boss Harry Redknapp. It was Emmanuel Adebayor's final appearance for Tottenham before leaving for the African Cup of Nations, having patched up his differences with Togo officials. Despite two strong results against top-four teams, Redknapp's side are now two points adrift at the bottom of the table following Reading's 3-2 win at home to seventh-placed West Brom. The promoted side scored three goals in the last 10 minutes, with the winner from Russia striker Pavel Pogrebnyak, after on-loan Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku netted twice in the first half. Everton stayed fifth, three points behind Tottenham, after being held 0-0 by ninth-placed Swansea. Southampton moved out of the bottom three with a 1-0 win at Aston Villa that dropped the home side into the relegation zone, putting more pressure on manager Paul Lambert. Striker Rickie Lambert scored the only goal from the penalty spot for his ninth league goal this season. Sunderland moved up to 14th with a 3-0 win over West Ham that left the London side in 11th, above Norwich on goal difference. Norwich drew 0-0 at home to struggling Newcastle, while Wigan moved above Aston Villa on goal difference after coming from behind to draw 1-1 at 13th-placed Fulham. | Jon Walters scores two own-goals and misses a penalty as Chelsea bounce back in EPL .
Striker's nightmare sends Stoke to a 4-0 defeat, ending 17-match unbeaten home run .
Chelsea back up to third in table after Tottenham's 0-0 draw at bottom club QPR .
Captain John Terry makes his Chelsea return after two months out with a knee injury . |
215,454 | a2e3baeb393832206be4cedac914a01196021651 | (Oprah.com) -- Here are some dispatches from the outer limits of clutter: . You can take it with you . Worried about leaving unwanted furniture after you die? Fear not: Maine-based company Last Things creates bookcases that -- when the time comes -- double as coffins. Lost . Last August the body of Billie Jean James was found buried under mountains of junk in her Las Vegas home, four months after she'd gone missing. This despite the early deployment of search dogs -- and the fact that her husband still lived in the house. Trashistan . A Netherlands-based architecture firm is proposing a habitable, floating recycled island built from plastics caught in the Pacific trash vortex -- an accumulation of debris currently estimated to be the size of Texas. Much of the trash has been broken down to microscopic size by photodegradation, while larger material regularly ensnares about 100,000 marine animals a year. The designers believe their massive habitat could not only help clean the ocean but house some of the estimated 200 million "climate refugees" who may be displaced by changing weather patterns in the coming decades. Oprah.com: How to get back-to-basics and live with less . Hoarders in history . Last year a stash of 52,000 coins was discovered in Somerset, England, some stamped with the face of Marcus Aurelius Carausius, a third-century A.D. Roman military leader. Turns out burying your family's valuables -- never to retrieve them -- might once have had religious significance. Bacon was a pig . If you think your workspace is messy, you should see the late British painter Francis Bacon's studio in London. Bacon, whose Triptych 1976 sold for $86 million in 2008, reportedly could not work in tidy spaces. Old photos show every floor and table surface drowning in a sea of debris -- papers, paintbrushes, wood, clothing, Champagne boxes, and more -- leaving little room to even stand. After his death, the scene was lovingly dismantled and reconstructed in a museum in Dublin (where it took three years to re-create the mess). Oprah.com: 4 reasons to live without . Humble abodes . One way to forcefully de-clutter is to move into a home the size of a parking space. The Small House Movement -- which has been featured on the Oprah show -- is thriving, according to Kent Griswold, author of tinyhouseblog.com. Griswold recommends Tumbleweed Tiny House company, whose models (with names like "Weebee") range from 65 to 840 square feet and cost less than $20,000. "I've traveled from Canada to Mexico with my small homes," writes Griswold. "Can you do that with your current home?" Organize it like Beckham . One celebrity whose organizational skills are praised consistently -- by no less an authority than his wife -- is soccer star David Beckham. Victoria Beckham has revealed that Becks color-codes the contents of the fridge, vacuums the carpet in straight lines and gets upset when anyone walks on it, and has a separate bathroom because he can't stand her clutter. Oprah.com: Organizing guru Peter Walsh's quicker clean-up tips . | One company creates bookcases that can double as coffins .
Francis Bacon's messy studio in London took three years to recreate .
The Small House Movement -- with spaces ranging from 65 to 840 square feet -- is thriving . |
40,554 | 726d026db342aa6b0d05b44af290d185d87b3930 | American pop stars Miley Cyrus and Justin Timberlake could be forced to cancel Finnish concerts due to U.S. sanctions against the venue's owners. Both singers are due to play dates at the Hartwall Arena in Helsinki, one of Finland's biggest entertainment venues. But the arena's Russian owners are all close associates of President Vladimir Putin and are included on a list of visa bans and asset freezes, imposed by the United States last month. A Finnish concert by pop star Miley Cyrus could be under threat due to US sanctions imposed on the arena's owners . Now it is unclear whether the concerts can go ahead. The Hartwall Arena is owned by Gennady Timchenko, co-founder of Russia oil trader Guvnor, and brothers Boris and Arkady Rotenberg. All three were the subject of sanctions, which were issued against close allies of President Putin following the country's annexation of the Crimean peninsula from Ukraine. Mr Timchenko and the Rotenbergs bought a stake in Helsinki ice-hockey team Jokerit along with the arena, which is the team's home rink, last year. Justin Timberlake has a sold-out concert scheduled for the Hartwall Arena next month, though it could be under threat . Justin Timberlake already has a sold-out concert scheduled at the arena for May 12, while Miley Cyrus will be taking her world tour to the venue in June. Helsinki concert promoter Live Nation Finland said its lawyers were discussing with U.S. authorities whether the sanctions against the venue's owners would bar planned shows by American artists. Nina Castren, chief executive of Live Nation Finland said: 'We are examining the possibility whether this could have an impact on American artists' shows.' The Hartwall Arena's owners are close allies of Russian President Vladimir Putin. The US sanctions came following Russia's annexation of the Crimean peninsula . 'If it does, then we will need to come up with a different solution. 'But I believe that the problem will be solved and the concerts will be held.' Timchenko's and the Rotenbergs' company in Finland, Arena Events Oy, could not be immediately reached for comment. The sanctions imposed by the United States mean that Americans cannot conduct any transactions with those on the list. The U.S. Treasury Department has said that Gennday Timchenko's activities in the energy sector are directly linked to Mr Putin, who has investments in Gunvor and could have access to Gunvor funds. The Rotenberg brothers are both believed to be close childhood friends of President Putin and have held big state contracts. Arkady Rotenberg's companies won billions in road contracts in Sochi, the host of the 2014 Winter Games. | Both stars are due to play dates at the Hartwall Arena in Helsinki .
But venue owned by three Russian businessmen subject to U.S. sanctions .
Owners are all said to be close allies of Russian president Vladimir Putin .
Sanctions mean Americans cannot conduct transactions with those on list . |
205,242 | 95af2296b65f08edf832722c9ae926487eb1e79e | Arsenal were boosted with the return of Jack Wilshere and appeared to be in good spirits in training ahead of their game against Aston Villa on Saturday. Wilshere suffered an ankle injury in the Gunners' 2-0 defeat by Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday but the midfielder was back with the rest of his team-mates ahead of the game at Villa Park. Transfer deadline day signing Danny Welbeck was seen messing around with fellow England star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, with the midfielder seen climbing on the former Manchester United striker's back. Jack Wilshere (left) joined team mates Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (centre) and Santi Cazorla (right) for some sprints . New boy Danny Welbeck appears to be a hit with his team mates as he joked around with fellow England international Oxlade-Chamberlain . Wilshere returned to Arsenal training after suffering an ankle injury against Borussia Dortmund in their midweek Champions League game . Spanish midfielder Mikel Arteta also looked cheerful as he stretched out his leg muscles in training ahead of the game against Aston Villa on Saturday . Oxlade-Chamberlain (left), Welbeck (centre) and Per Mertesacker (right) look fully focused on the ball as they jostle for position in training . The muscular Oxlade-Chamberlain concentrates on his delivery in the Gunners' session on a carpet-like training pitch . German midfielder Mesut Ozil holds his hands out whilst training, having been highly criticised for his performances in the Arsenal red . Prior to the training session, Arsene Wenger hit back at the critics of Mesut Ozil in his press conference, after the German failed to impress yet again during Arsenal's defeat in Dortmund on Tuesday night. 'Why should he be a scapegoat? For what? We've lost one game since April 1,' said Wenger. 'Let's be realistic. We've come out of a very difficult preparation period with decisive games. We had very difficult games against Besiktas. I don't know a scapegoat for what? 'What is difficult to manage today is that everybody knows absolutely everything and everybody judges people definitely on one game. You have to accept that football is played by human beings who have ups and downs like you have in your life.' There has been the suggestion that Ozil's poor form is due to his manager playing him on the right, out of his most effective position.The Frenchman saw this as a side issue, however. 'That's a secondary debate in my opinion because he has freedom to play when we have the ball and go where he wants,' he added. If you look at the heat map where he plays, you will be amazed where he is all over the pitch.' Arsenal's player of last season Aaron Ramsey (right) looks to challenge Spanish playmaker Cazorla (left) Tomas Rosicky holds his balance as he looks to drive forward with the ball in Arsenal's training session . Germany forward Lukas Podolski looks up for options as he tests his leg power in Arsenal's training session . Podolski (left), in a much more relaxed pose, with his hand on hip and foot rested on the ball, also looked in high spirits during the session . Summer signing Alexis Sanchez (left) holds a low sense of gravity as he is challenged in training ahead of the Gunners' game against Paul Lambert's Villa on Saturday . Wenger also addressed the FA's proposal to cut the number of players from outside the EU. He believes that this should be carefully considered to avoid compromising the quality of the English game. FA chairman Greg Dyke's England Commission has outlined a series of recommendations to reduce the number of overseas players by up to 50 per cent, including banning clubs sending such players out on loan, preventing Football League clubs from signing them and making the appeals process much tougher. 'I read what he (Greg Dyke) said and honestly I am for the competition worldwide, but he has a point that it is difficult to get non-EU players in the youth system and then to loan them out. That's where he has a point,' said Wenger. 'You want the best players in the world to be here, but if you go for them you cannot take them and loan them out somewhere else. Maybe he has a point there. 'Do they take room in the education of the young English players? I don't think so. It is a deep debate and it is very difficult to have a definite opinion. 'What is for sure is you do not want artificial protection of the mediocrity and that's where you have to be very careful because this is a job where we're very well paid, therefore you want top, top quality. 'You want to be the best Premier League in the world so you want to be top quality and open to the best players in the world, but the best way to respond and to fulfil all the expectation of the FA is to produce good top quality young players. England is on its way but there is still a job to do.' | Jack Wilshere trains with Arsenal following return from injury .
The 22-year-old midfielder suffered an ankle injury in Arsenal's midweek game against Borussia Dortmund .
Danny Welbeck and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain were seen laughing and joking during the training session . |
227,900 | b31de18480be1f6f4c793701fa3265cf934f6007 | (CNN) -- They say that all fiction can be reduced to two basic plots: "a stranger comes to town" and "a man goes on a journey." Which suggests travel and literature make for cozy bedfellows. Here are some of the coolest hotels inspired by writers and their work. 1. The Algonquin Hotel, New York . Following the end of World War 1, a group of young writers decided to gather daily for lunch in a hotel restaurant. The writers worked for Vanity Fair at the time, and as their careers flourished, they became the literary lions of the day. They were Dorothy Parker, Robert Benchley and Alexander Woollcott, among others, and the hotel was the Algonquin Hotel. The New Yorker was founded inside its doors in 1925. The Algonquin Hotel, 59 West 44th Street, New York, New York; +121 2840 6800; $259-959 per night . 2. The Commons Hotel, Minneapolis . Located close to downtown Minneapolis, the Commons Hotel is a "geek chic" boutique hotel on the University of Minnesota campus. The hotel's quirkiest feature? Resident "book butlers" who provide guests with complimentary deliveries of a book of their choice during their stay. Guests can choose from an in-room book menu that ranges from bestsellers to classics. To keep with the theme, the hotel's nightly turndown service leaves a wise "quote of the day" on guests' pillows each evening. The Commons Hotel, 615 Washington Avenue SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota; +161 2379 8888; $120-399 per night . 3. The Hobbit Motel, Waitomo, New Zealand . This Lord-of-the-Rings-themed hotel, located in Otorohanga, New Zealand, came about entirely by accident. The owner was looking at building a property underground because the area is known for glowworm caves, and his engineer wife, who was a fan of the books, suggested that he build it "like a hobbit house." The rooms at the Hobbit Motel include kitchens and can accommodate up to six people. The Hobbit Motel, Woodlyn Park, 1177 Waitomo Valley Road, Waitomo, New Zealand; +640 7878 6666; from NZ$285 per night . More: Best affordable island hotels . 4. Les Plumes Hotel Paris . The literary theme of Les Plumes was inspired by its location -- a district dotted with the former homes of renowned writers. The hotel's cushions bear the names of the famous lovers Juliette Drouet and Victor Hugo, Paul Verlaine and Arthur Rimbaud, and George Sand and Alfred de Musset, while the décor incorporates printed portraits and quotes. Les Plumes Hotel, 10, rue Lamartine 75009 Paris; +331 5507 8800; €50-300 per night . 5. The Nines, Portland, United States . Portland is home to Wordstock, a huge literary festival, as well as Powell's Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world. The Nines was built to reflect this interest in Portland's literary culture by creating a place where guests could browse books, socialize with other literature lovers and get a sense of the city. The hotel works with Powell's and has created a lending library of more than 3,000 books for guests. The Nines, A Starwood Luxury Collection. 525 SW Morrison, Portland, Oregon; + 187 7229 9995 ; from $249 per night . 6. Library Hotel, New York . The Library Hotel's concept was inspired by its proximity to the New York Public Library, just one block away. Located on Library Way, the hotel's collection of over 6,000 books is organized by the Dewey Decimal System and each of the 10 guestroom floors honors one of the 10 categories of the system. There are six rooms on each floor and each room is uniquely decorated with a collection of 25-100 books, as well as art that explores a distinctive topic within the classification of knowledge that the floor is dedicated to. The Library Hotel, 299 Madison Avenue (at 41st Street), New York, New York; +1 21 2983 4500; from $249-749 per night . More: 7 hotel restaurants you'll be talking about for years . 7. Radisson Sonya Hotel, St. Petersburg, Russia . The Radisson Hotel Sonya was inspired by Fyodor Dostoyevsky's legendary novel "Crime and Punishment." The two suites in the hotel are named Rebirth and Ego and the pattern of the carpets contains the initial passages of the novel in both English and Russian. The corridor signage is designed to look like the spines of old books. Every guest room has its own unique door sign with quotes from the Russian classic. Radisson Sonya Hotel, Saint Petersburg, Russia, Liteyny; +781 2406 0000; from RUB 4,080 ($125) per night . 8. Hotel Le Marcel, Paris . "Traveling in space, but also in time." An ode to Proust, the Le Marcel counts travel and literature as its main inspirations. Touches of indigo, which the owners say is a major element of romantic literature, are sprinkled throughout the hotel. Le Marcel, 11, rue du 8 Mai 1945 75010; +331 7303 2222; from €104 ($139) per night . 9. The Plaza, New York . The Plaza's history is intrinsically tied to F. Scott Fitzgerald and his wife Zelda, who were both regular patrons. The Fitzgerald Suite, unveiled in May this year, is a dramatic space that makes guests feel like they're in one of Fitzgerald's novels. Designed by Catherine Martin, the co-producer of Baz Luhrmann's adaptation of "The Great Gatsby," this 700-square-foot space channels the dynamics of the Jazz Age using period-inspired pieces. Another delightful venue at the hotel is Eloise at The Plaza, a one-of-a-kind shop, reading room and event venue which celebrates Kay Thompson's iconic children's book heroine, Eloise, who in the books lives at The Plaza. The Plaza, Fifth Avenue at Central Park South, New York, New York; +188 8850 0909; The Fitzgerald Suite starts at $2,795 per night . More: 10 hotels featured in James Bond movies . 10. The Heathman Hotel, Portland . Built in 1927, the Heathman Hotel touts one of the few cataloged lending hotel libraries in the United States. The hotel's 3,000 volumes are displayed in custom-made cases in the Mezzanine Library, and many books were signed by their authors while they were guests at the hotel. The collection includes signed editions from seven Nobel Prize winners, 14 Pulitzer winners, five U.S. Poet Laureates and two former U.S. Presidents. Every Monday-Thursday, from 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., the hotel's librarian pours complimentary wine and opens the library cabinets for guests to enjoy. The Heathman Hotel, 1001 SW Broadway, Portland, Oregon; +180 0551 0011; from $229-1,750 per night . 11. Apostrophe Hotel, Paris . Located in a district rife with literary history and home to many bookstores and publishers, the Apostrophe Hotel was conceived as a poem. Each room is dedicated to a verse. The story starts with the room on the ground floor "Sheherazade" (Once upon a time...) and continues on upwards through the hotel. Apostrophe Hotel, 3 rue de Chevreuse, 75006 Paris; +33 1 5654 3131; from €149-353 ($199-472) per night . 12. The NoMad Hotel, New York . Rather random, yes, but still charming. When designing The NoMad Hotel, the owners were inspired by the idea of a great house. During the design process, owner Andrew Zobler imagined the hotel to be a place where a young woman of aristocratic French birth had gone off on her own to experience New York. The books in the hotel's beautiful library are organized by the 15 subjects that they imagined this young woman would be reading, such as "The History of New York" and "Music." The NoMad Hotel, 1170 Broadway & 28th Street, New York, NY; +1 21 2796 1500; from $395 per night . More: Palaces, castles, chateaus: 12 regal stays . 13. The Betsy -- South Beach, Miami . The Betsy is Miami's only literary arts hotel. It has a Writer's Room, which is outfitted with the latest technology, sound-proof, stocked with its own library and laid out like a New York apartment. The current writer-in-residence is exiled Zimbabwean writer Chenjerai Hove. To keep true to its literary theme, the Betsy places a bookmark with a poem, rather than chocolate, on guests' pillows every evening. The Betsy-South Beach, 1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, Florida; +130 5531 6100; from $279 per night . 14. L'Hotel, Paris . The L'Hotel in Paris was made famous by Oscar Wilde, whose last words as he lay dying in the hotel were reportedly, "Either that wallpaper goes, or I do." The bar is decorated as a library, with literary classics and photos of Oscar Wilde lining the back wall. Room 16, the Oscar Wilde Room, has walls that are lined with letters to and from Wilde and the hotel manager, disputing the writer's outstanding hotel bills. L'Hotel, 13 Rue des Beaux-Arts, 75006 Paris, France; +33 1 44 41 99 00; from €295 per night . More: 25 great skyscrapers: icons of construction . | The New Yorker was founded in The Algonquin Hotel .
Radisson Sonya Hotel in Saint Petersburg was inspired by "Crime and Punishment"
L'Hotel in Paris was made famous by Oscar Wilde, who lived and died at the hotel . |
106,018 | 14bb666f3acf138c8bc0fcf29737f698274c6953 | (CNN) -- Since the bombing of the Boston marathon -- in which three people, including a child, were killed and more than 200 injured -- attention has naturally focused on what could have been done to prevent it. Some, such as Rep. Peter King, the New York Republican who chairs the Homeland Security Committee, have argued for increased surveillance of Muslims in the United States. Local police departments "have to realize that the threat is coming from the Muslim community and increase surveillance there," he says. Others have asked whether leads were properly followed and if better sharing of information between agencies would have helped thwart the bombing. However, the government, with its $40 billion annual intelligence budget, already amasses vast quantities of information on the private lives of Muslims in the United States. The FBI has 3,000 intelligence analysts working on counterterrorism and 15,000 paid informants, according to Mother Jones. Exactly how many of them are focused on Muslims in the United States is unknown; there is little transparency in this area. But, given the emphasis the FBI has placed on preventing Muslim terrorism, and based on my interviews with FBI agents working on counterterrorism, there could be as many as two-thirds assigned to spying on Muslims. Taking the usual estimate of the Muslim population in the United States of 2.35 million, this would mean the FBI has a spy for every 200 Muslims in the United States. When one adds the resources of the National Security Agency, regional intelligence fusion centers, and the counterterrorism work of local police departments, such as the New York Police Department (where a thousand officers are said to work on counterterrorism and intelligence), the number of spies per Muslim may increase dramatically. East Germany's communist-era secret police, the Stasi, had one intelligence analyst or informant for every 66 citizens. This suggests that Muslims in the United States could be approaching levels of state surveillance similar to that which the East German population faced from the Stasi. Yet, as the Stasi itself eventually discovered, no system of surveillance can ever produce total knowledge of a population. Indeed, the greater the amount of information collected, the harder it is to interpret its meaning. In the majority of terrorist attacks in recent years, the relevant information was somewhere in the government's systems, but its significance was lost amid a morass of useless data. What is obscured by the demands for ever greater surveillance and information processing is that security is best established through relationships of trust and inclusion within the community. The real missed opportunity to intervene before the bombs went off in Boston likely came three months earlier, when bombing suspect Tamerlan Tsarnaev stood up during a Friday prayer service at his mosque - the Islamic Society of Boston, in Cambridge - to angrily protest the imam's sermon. The imam had been celebrating the life of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., which Tsarnaev thought was selling out. According to one report, Tsarnaev was then kicked out of the prayer service for his outburst. Since 9/11, mosque leaders have been under pressure to eject anyone expressing radical views, rather than engaging with them and seeking to challenge their religious interpretation, address their political frustrations, or meet their emotional needs. That policy has been forced on mosques by the wider climate of excessive surveillance, which means mosques are wary of even having conversations with those perceived to be radicals, for fear of attracting official attention. The fear is that every mosque has a government informant listening for radical talk. Unsurprisingly, this means most people are reluctant to engage with young people expressing radical views, who instead tend to be ejected from the congregation. The Tsarnaev brothers were said to be angry about U.S. foreign policy in Afghanistan and Iraq, possibly drawing parallels with their own experiences as refugees from Russia's brutal wars of counterinsurgency in the Caucasus. But because discussions of foreign policy have been off-limits in mosques since 9/11, they were unlikely to have had their anger acknowledged, engaged, challenged or channeled into nonviolent political activism. The heavy surveillance of Muslims has meant there is no room for mosques to engage with someone like Tamerlan Tsarnaev, listen to him, challenge those of his ideas that might be violent, or offer him emotional support. Instead, Muslims have felt pressured to demonstrate their loyalty to America by steering clear of dissident conversations on foreign policy. Flawed models of the so-called "radicalization" process have assumed that the best way to stop terrorist violence is to prevent radical ideas from circulating. Yet the history of terrorism suggests the opposite is true. Time and again, support for terrorism appears to increase when legitimate political activism is suppressed - from the French anarchists who began bombing campaigns after the defeat of the Paris Commune, to the Algerian National Liberation Front struggling to end French colonialism, to the Weather Underground's "Declaration of a state of war" after state repression of student campaigns against the Vietnam War. Reconstructing the motivation for the bombings is fraught with difficulty; there can be little certainty in such matters. But pathological outcomes are more likely when space for the free exchange of feelings and opinions is squeezed. As many community activists and religious leaders argued in Britain in the aftermath of the 7/7 terrorist attacks on the London transport system in 2005, the best preventive measure is to enable anger, frustration and dissent to be expressed as openly as possible, rather than driving them underground where they more easily mutate into violent forms. These activists put this approach into practice, for example at the Brixton mosque in south London, by developing initiatives in the community to engage young people in discussions of foreign policy, identity and the meaning of religious terms like jihad, in order to counter those who advocate violence against fellow citizens. It is difficult to measure the success of such programs. But many see them as having played an important role in undermining support for terrorism. In what must seem a paradox to backers of East German levels of surveillance like Peter King, more radical talk might be the best way of reducing terrorist violence. No one could have predicted from Tsarnaev's outburst that, a few months later, he would be suspected of carrying out an act of mass murder on the streets of Boston. And we don't know what would have made a difference in the end. But a community able to express itself openly without fear, whether in the mosque or elsewhere, should be a key element in the United States' efforts to prevent domestic terrorism. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Arun Kundnani. | Debate has ranged widely over how to prevent terrorist attacks .
Arun Kundnani says answer is not more and more surveillance .
He says mosque leaders are fearful of engaging in discussion with radicals .
Kundnani: Don't toss people like Tamerlan Tsarnaev out of mosques; confront them . |
153,087 | 51d59fc2da010c49add1b7d312c60618c851fcc3 | It is the perfect solution for shopaholics who are running out of room for all their fashion purchases. The Dynamic Closet is a rotating wardrobe that catalogues your clothes and can deliver your chosen item at the click of a smartphone or tablet. Instead of rifling through overloaded hangers and rummaging among fallen items before finding something to wear, the garment is produced instantly. The Dynamic Closet is a rotating wardrobe that can deliver your chosen item at the click of a smartphone . The wardrobe is operated on a circular rail meaning it can store more clothes than a normal wardrobe, in the same amount of space. The innovative system involves taking pictures of an item on a smartphone or tablet before placing it in the wardrobe. Sensors on the rails then detect which space the item is allocated and catalogues it. When the owner searches for it on their smartphone, the wardrobe automatically moves the rail to the correct place to bring them the outfit. The device’s creators say users can search by pictures, colour, type...or even the date the item was last worn. The concept was first suggested in the 1995 film Clueless in which Cher had a computer system to pick clothes . The concept was first suggested in 1995 film Clueless, in which character Cher, played by Alicia Silverstone, had a computer system to help her decide what to wear. It labelled items a match or mismatch, enabling her to create outfits. The real-life wardrobe comes in a range of finishes, including gold leaf and silver leaf, and makers MetalProgetti also offer to create a bespoke design. A basic version of the futuristic furniture costs £2,900, while a double-level model is priced at £4,300. MetalProgetti’s Amanda Tarbart said the product was ‘a very simple solution to a very real problem and is a great idea for anybody who is serious about their fashion’. | The Dynamic Closet rotates clothes, brings chosen outfit to the door .
Users can search by picture, colour, type or date to select item .
Idea first suggested in 1995 film Clueless by Alicia Silverstone's character . |
35,334 | 646d4e15f4fab99558aca0ca71bdd153fed4b5d9 | By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 14:12 EST, 20 August 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 14:17 EST, 20 August 2012 . The mother of a child beauty queen has been banned from entering her daughter into pageants in a fierce court battle for custody of the child, according to a new report. Lindsay Jackson, 30, from Mount Juliet, Tennessee, sparked controversy after she dressed Maddy, five, as Dolly Parton, complete with fake breasts and butt, for a pageant that aired on TLC reality series Toddlers & Tiaras last year. Her actions were severely criticised by her estranged partner, Bill Verst, who accused his ex of sexually exploiting their child and has since applied for custody. Custody battle: Lindsay Jackson (pictured with Maddy, five) has been banned by a judge from entering her daughter into child beauty pageants until the next hearing in a fierce war for custody of the younster . Now, RadarOnline reveals, Ms Jackson has been issued with a gag order and ordered not to enter her daughter into any more pageants until the next hearing on August 31. A source close to Ms Jackson told the site: 'What kind of . judge tells a parent what kind of extracurricular activity they can put . their child in? Pageants aren’t illegal and they’re not harming Maddy. 'This is no different from soccer or . swimming or gymnastics and it is taking away Lisa's right to parent. The . government should not be involved in this at all!' Ms Jackson, who has been entering Maddy into beauty contests since she was 13 months old, insists that her daughter loves pageants and begs to go to . them every weekend. Controversial: Maddy shot to fame after an episode of Toddlers & Tiaras last year, when she took to the stage as Dolly Parton, complete with fake breasts and butt (left). The youngster has competing since she was one . She told RadarOnline before the gag order last week: 'Maddy has been doing pageants since she was a baby and this is the first time Bill has ever said I'm a bad mother. 'He . never made an argument about it until the show aired and now he's . trying to say that she's sexualized and that I'm trying to exploit her . and I'm not!' Mr Verst has never had custody of Maddy. He is on . probation for a DUI and is a convicted felon. Ms Jackson has also accused him of failing to pay child support. Confusion: Mother Lindsay readjusts the chicken . fillet breast enhancements on four-year-old Maddy, she has now been accused of sexually exploiting her child and is now fighting her husband for custody . Curvaceous: Maddy sporting padding on her bottom, hidden under her . Barbie pink catsuit, which her mother, Lindsay, pictured, has called her . 'fake butt' She also alleges that Maddy's father . puts her in 'dangerous situations', and that she is facing a losing battle thanks . to his well-connected family, who she says is influencing the decision. 'I feel like I'm fighting a battle without bullets,' she said. 'It is my right to put my child in . pageants, it is just like any other extracurricular activity like soccer . or gymnastics or football,' she argued. 'It is not illegal to do pageants, it . is a hobby that we participate in and the government cannot tell me . that I can't put my daughter in pageants.' | Lindsay Jackson has been accused by her ex, Bill Verst, of sexually exploiting their daughter, Maddy .
She sparked controversy after she dressed the youngster as Dolly Parton, complete with fake breasts and butt, for a pageant that aired on TLC reality series Toddlers & Tiaras last year . |
281,986 | f948bf7807ced882aba048521a38fd8fca07204b | By . Kit Holden . Bayern Munich forward Thomas Muller has sent a crushing blow in the direction of Old Trafford by denying rumours of a potential move to Manchester United. The German international has been heavily linked with United in recent days, as rumours of his discontent under coach Pep Guardiola have grown. But speaking to the Austrian paper Krone, Muller played down the idea that he might leave Bayern this summer. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Five of the best goals scored by United target Thomas Muller . Denial: Thomas Muller has denied he is leaving Bayern Munich to sign for Manchester United this summer . 'I didn't make these rumours up myself, so I don't particularly want to comment on them too much, but I'm definitely not about to jump ship at Bayern,' said the 24-year-old, 'That said, I can't make any guarantees (that I'll stay at the club) for all time.' Muller's apparent frustration has stemmed from a lack of playing time in Guardiola's rotation system, with appearances being particularly sparse in the Champions League. At various points in the season, he has appeared openly annoyed in post-match interviews about having to sit on the bench. Many have speculated that, with Louis van Gaal set to take over at Manchester United, Muller might make the switch to the Premier League. The Dutchman was the man who established Muller as a first-team player at Bayern. Frustrated: Muller has not played as much as he'd liked because of Pep Guardiola's rotation system . Blow: Incoming Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal will be disappointed to learn Muller is staying put . But as rumours have grown, many prominent figures around the Munich club, most recently Franz Beckenbauer and Steffen Effenberg, have come out to discourage Muller from leaving. The native Bavarian has been described a 'rock' at Bayern, and 'unimaginable elsewhere'. The speculation around Bayern's unsettled squad will not end with Müller's comments today, however, as other players have commented about their frustration in recent days. Jerome Boateng told reporters at a sponsorship event that 'the atmosphere among the squad isn't very good anymore', while Javi Martinez openly said that he had imagined a different career path at Bayern to the one he has taken this season. Relief: Guardiola will be pleased to hear that Muller is staying at Bayern Munich for the foreseeable future . | Bayern Munich's says he will not leave Bayern Munich this summer .
The Bavarian has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United .
Muller broke into the Bayern team under former boss Louis van Gaal, who is set to take over at Old Trafford .
The 25-year-old has grown frustrated at Pep Guardiola's rotation system .
Bayern executives Franz Beckenbauer and Steffan Effenberg have urged Muller to stay at the club . |
72,540 | cdab19f2d4503636ffd787d3ea6aa07f5024847e | Bloody and bawling, they emerge from the womb to take a first, momentous breath. These intensely intimate photographs capture birth in its raw glory as each baby is delivered by caesarean section, lifted from its mother and held to the light. Taken by French photographer Christian Berthelot,each frame is shot within the child's first 20 seconds of life. The 38-year-old from Brittany, France, started project just six months after his own son was born. A new exhibition in Paris features a series of pictures of babies just seconds after they are born by caesarean section. Pictured is Mael - born December 13, 2013 at 4:52 p.m.2kg 800 - 18 seconds of life . Liza - born February 26, 2013 at 8:45 am3kg 200 - 3 seconds of life . Dr. Jean-François Morienval, an obstetrician in the hospital where his son was born, asked Christian if he would be interested in taking a series of portraits on the profession of midwifery. After a long discussion, the pair decided that the best solution would be for Christian to join the doctors and nurses in the theatre while the child was being born through c-section. The planning needed to undertake the project then took six months, with Christian needing training to work in a surgical environment, requests for permission to take photographs in the clinic and requests for permission to take photographs of the mothers. He also needed prepare mentally for what he was going to be seeing. Christian said of the first time he was in surgery to take the photos: 'I thought back to the birth of my son. The whole team was there and attentive. 'The doctor watched me from the corner of his eye, to see how I would react if I was going to faint or run away. And I did not even know how I felt. 'So I hid behind my camera and I did my job.' Louann - born April 12, 2013 at 8:40 am3kg 574 - 14 seconds life . Romane - born May 20, 2014 at 10:512kg 935 - 8 seconds of life . Christian continued: 'Everything went very quickly. It was a big slap in my face. I made photographs throughout the duration of the surgery. 'When everything was over and everything was fine, I went home. I drank coffee and waited several days. 'I knew I was not going to look at the world the same way.' After taking the five pictures that the doctor asked for over a period of weeks, Christian realised that the photographs they had worked on together provided a unique way of looking at birth. Since then, he has gone on to photograph more than 40 different babies in the first few seconds outside the womb, which is now being shown at an exhibition in Paris called the CESAR series. He said: 'My perspective on the birth has changed. I discovered the dangers of birth. 'It is for this reason that I have decided to show the beginnings of a new human being, during the first seconds of his life. I am interested in those first seconds only. 'And what continues to amaze me is that it never stops. With each passing moment, a child is born, from all over the world, all the time, births never stop. Lize - born December 24, 2013 at 8:49 am3kg 574 - 9 seconds of life . Kevin - born December 27, 2013 at 10:36 am4kg 366 - 13 seconds of life . Leanne - born April 8, 2014 at 8:31 am1kg 745 - 13 seconds of life . Christian acknowledges that some people might find these pictures difficult to look at, but he says that he sees beauty when he looks at the images. He said: 'I know there are people who react very badly, who find it disgusting, they tell me that I do not have the right to show the children in the bloodstream, some even told me that it is not real, it is not true. 'This is absurd, children are not born in cabbages or roses. 'And there are those who are fascinated, I give them the opportunity to observe in detail the violence of birth. 'But there are also people like my wife, who encouraged me to do this work, because c is beautiful birth.' CESAR is being be shown in France during the Festival Circulations' Festival Circulation Exhibition from January 24 to March 8, 2015 at Centquatre, 5 Rue Curial, Paris. www.festival-circulations.com . | Photographer Christian Berthelot captures babies born by C-section .
Inspired by his son's own first moments covered in blood and vernix .
The images capture babies less than 20 seconds after their birth . |
86,881 | f692a008a8b2b0dc8cbfe27abdbe7f76f36e8fd3 | (RealSimple.com) -- Readers share the tips and tricks that get them out of an emotional slump. For years I wanted to learn to play the drums, so it was quite a thrill when my husband bought me a set two years ago for my birthday. Since then, I've discovered that banging out a favorite tune, such as the Beatles' "You Can't Do That," improves my mood in a matter of minutes. --Karen Worth, San Antonio, Texas . I head to the gym, put on my gloves, and pound on the punching bag. As I strike it, I think about what's bothering me and come up with a solution. The bag weighs 175 pounds, so hitting it requires a great deal of strength and exertion. It feels great to work out my problems and my body at the same time. --Heidi Henriksen, Minneapolis, Minnesota . RealSimple.com: 3 quick ways to relieve stress . When I get down in the dumps, I set a timer for 20 minutes and vent -- to a friend, to the dashboard of the car, even to the seagulls at the beach. That's all it takes: Once the timer goes off, I've figured out why I am feeling low and have regained control of my emotions. --Leigh Reposa, Narragansett, Rhode Island . About 10 years ago, I was having a typically awful day: I had overslept, got caught in traffic, made mistakes at work. In the midst of it all, a friend sent me an e-mail calling for donations for autism research. I logged on to her website, contributed, and immediately felt better. Now I give to charity whenever I get grumpy. Each donation reminds me of what really matters. --Beth Surmont, New Brunswick, New Jersey . My 40s were coming to an end, and I was dreading it. Then my brother-in-law suggested I watch a "Saturday Night Live" skit starring Molly Shannon as Sally O'Malley, a 50-year-old trying out for the Radio City Rockettes. It made me laugh so hard and helped me get over my anxieties. Now whenever I'm feeling down, I view it, have a belly laugh, and move on. As Sally said: "Book 'em, Danno! I'm 5-0!" --Bonny Tillman, Acworth, Georgia . RealSimple.com: Easy ways to unwind . Songs sung by the White Stripes' lead singer, Jack White, pull me out of a dark cloud. His tunes are upbeat, jazzy, and funky. The track "We're Going to Be Friends" makes me feel happy and hopeful, while "Seven Nation Army" motivates me to get up and move. "Why Can't You Be Nicer to Me?" reminds me that I'm not the only person having a tough time. Listening to it, I feel less alone. --Cindy Karnitz, Rockford, Illinois . For me, getting out of a funk is simple. I sit on my porch and watch birds flutter around my feeders. In the spring and summer, I see fast-moving hummingbirds, red-plumed cardinals, and yellow finches, who gravitate to our cornflowers. I appreciate just how lucky I am to be able to spend my time in such a relaxing way. --Sue Gutierrez, Wesley Chapel, North Carolina . An instant antidote for a bad mood is an evening curled up in front of a movie based on a Jane Austen novel. I'm a huge fan of the BBC miniseries Pride and Prejudice, but my favorite scene is from the 1995 made-for-TV adaptation of Persuasion. When Captain Wentworth professes his love for Anne Elliot, giving her a letter that reads, "You pierce my soul. I am half agony, half hope," I always smile. It reminds me that good girls can win in the end. --Lauren DeBueriis, New York, New York . I google "funny pugs" and browse the image results. Photographs of these bug-eyed, wrinkly, expressive pups would make anyone grin. --Carin Bagguley, Milwaukee, Wisconsin . RealSimple.com: How to make positive changes in your life . Champagne, darling! In the midst of performing the dreariest task, I'll pop the cork to liven things up. Take, for example, the time I painted my basement. I hated it at first, so I placed a flute in my left hand, a roller in my right -- and finished the job with a big smile. --Nancy Brand, Petoskey, Michigan . Riding my horse always takes my mind off my grumpiness. As we gallop across a field, I leave all my troubles and worries behind. --Roberta Monnier, Richmond, Virginia . Writing letters to my friends helps me get out of an emotional rut. I'll describe what's bothering me, or I'll just ask my pals questions about their own lives. Knowing a surprise awaits in a friend's mailbox brightens my mood. So does the prospect of receiving a response. --Taylor Reyes, Clinton Township, Michigan . RealSimple.com: 9 easy ways to be happier . Talking on the phone with my young grandchildren. Jacob, five, always asks me what I ate during the day, and his little brother, William, makes kissing noises. Two-year-old Olivia invites me to visit her castle. (She thinks she owns Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World.) And the two infants just breathe -- and occasionally giggle -- into the receiver. Listening to them, I feel the purest form of love. --Linda Garcia, Plainville, Connecticut . One word: pedicure. I grab a friend who needs a few hours of relaxation and we head to the salon -- my treat. It's amazing what nail polish, a massage chair, and helping out a friend can do for your mood. --Heather Kennedy Eden, Wollongong, Australia . Looking at bright colors makes me feel better. I find it nearly impossible to remain in a dour mood after I put on a lemon yellow sweater or paint my nails neon orange. Sunny hues remind me of my childhood bedroom, which was painted goldenrod, and of umbrellas, flowers, and other wonderful elements of spring. --Susanna Cardinale, Cliffwood, New Jersey . A few years back, a devastating event took the wind out of my sails. Trying to find my footing again, I remembered the fun I had had as a kid blowing bubbles. So I went to the store, bought five containers, and started blowing. Lo and behold, I laughed and felt happy! This childhood pastime has become the way that I lift my spirits and celebrate life. For example, my grandpa passed away recently, and we blew bubbles in his honor. --Abby Smyers, Dayton, Montana . RealSimple.com: Banishing life's little annoyances . I put on scented lotion and enjoy some aromatherapy. One of my favorite fragrances is Bobbi Brown's Beach perfume. The scent reminds me of my family's vacation to Hawaii's Big Island. Goodbye, doldrums. --Karen King, Downers Grove, Illinois . Every now and then, my work gets stressful and my mood sours. To regain my composure, I quietly close the door of my office and go into a sun-salutation yoga pose, an exercise that causes you to breathe deeply, stretch, and expand your chest. After a few minutes, I find that I can handle things again. --Mary Lou Kinney, Boise, Idaho . A solo visit to a beauty-supply store always does the trick. The products, especially sparkly eye shadow, make me feel beautiful, and the time spent alone, a rare luxury with two little boys, restores me. --Gina Kain, Torrington, Connecticut . RealSimple: 5 mistakes everyone should make . Taking a cue from a song of my childhood, "I whistle a happy tune." As I do, I remember that for every minute I spend feeling down, I lose 60 seconds of joy. --Christine Cook, Rodeo, California . Get a FREE TRIAL issue of Real Simple - CLICK HERE! Copyright © 2010 Time Inc. All rights reserved. | Readers share what helps brighten their day .
Carin from Wisconsin googles "funny pugs" and browses the image results .
After a devastating event, Abby blew her troubles away with bubbles . |
150,562 | 4ea5f495a8ae3ff38c550d56678cf9b6478ee623 | The EU is too busy tackling eurozone economies to help David Cameron claw back powers from Brussels, the French premier Manuel Valls has said . The EU is too busy tackling eurozone economies to help David Cameron claw back powers from Brussels, the French premier said last night. Mr Cameron has promised tough negotiations to bring about an overhaul of EU rules on free movement, which he says allow thousands of migrants to come here to claim benefits. But Manuel Valls, the socialist prime minister of France, said in London that the union is too preoccupied with tackling weak growth and high unemployment to overhaul its treaties and change the terms of Britain’s EU membership. After talks with Mr Cameron and Chancellor George Osborne, he said that opening up the EU treaties would be ‘perilous’ and unpicking the right of free movement of people would be ‘to call into question the very basis of the EU’. Mr Cameron has pledged to change the rules on free movement ahead of an in/out referendum on EU membership by the end of 2017. Only last week he told the Conservative party conference: ‘I know you want this sorted so I will go to Brussels. I will not take “no” for an answer when it comes to free movement – I will get what Britain needs.’ Mr Valls, a former interior minister, suggested he was prepared to discuss the conditions for migrants settling in other countries and reducing red tape. But, speaking to journalists after meeting financiers in the City of London, he added: ‘I don’t think the EU at the moment is ready for a shake-up of its treaties and institutions. The priority is jobs and growth.’ In comments reported in the Financial Times, Mr Valls said unpicking the principle of free movement of people and workers would be ‘to call into question the very basis of the EU’. He said that in any case, member states from eastern European Europe would oppose it. A Downing Street spokesman said that at their Number 10 meeting, Mr Cameron had raised freedom of movement with Mr Valls and reiterated his view that ‘this should not be an unqualified right’. Mr Valls told journalists: ‘I don’t think the EU at the moment is ready for a shake-up of its treaties and institutions. The priority is jobs and growth’ Mr Valls’ visit came as it was claimed that France faces the unprecedented humiliation of having its budget rejected by EU officials because of sky high levels of public borrowing. Brussels bureaucrats in the European Commission could demand the country tear up and rewrite tax and spending plans for next year to comply with borrowing rules. Officials are also likely to progress with ‘disciplinary’ action against France which could result in it being fined. The commission could also give France longer to meet budget rules, according to comments from anonymous euro zone officials reported by the news agency Reuters. It would be the first time the commission had used its power to demand changes to a national budget draft under new powers given to it last year. One official told Reuters: ‘It would save face for everybody. Even if it would be a bit humiliating for France, they probably know they cannot get away without anything. Mr Valls’ visit came as it was claimed that France faces the unprecedented humiliation of having its budget rejected by EU officials . ‘And it would also save face for Germany and the others, who are concerned about the longer-term effects, about not watering down the rules, but who also want to give France and its unpopular president a fighting chance.’ Sky high levels of unemployment and sclerotic growth have left Socialist President Francois Hollande’s approval rating at an all-time low of 13 per cent. Once praised by Ed Miliband for his left wing views, President Hollande now faces making embarrassing policy reversals to try and kick start the French economy. France was supposed to have brought its budget deficit below the EU ceiling of 3 per cent of GDP last year . Last year EU finance ministers gave it a two-year extension, until 2015, because of the continued euro zone recession. But last month Paris announced it was going to miss the 2015 deadline and would only hit the target by 2017. The commission will consider whether to allow the extended timetable if concessions are made. Last week the boss of John Lewis was forced into a grovelling apology after describing France as ‘finished’. Managing director Andy Street insisted his tirade against Europe’s second biggest economy had been ‘tongue-in-cheek’ after he described Paris’s Gare du Nord train station as ‘the squalor pit of Europe’ and said even the food and drink in London was better than that he had been offered in Paris. Speaking in the City of London, Mr Valls tried to put a brave face on his country’s economic woes. He admitted France needed to follow Britain’s efforts in restoring growth and pledged to cut taxes on growth. But he claimed Britain’s deficit was ‘substantially higher’ than France’s and that Britain was facing the ‘same challenges’ as France. | Manuel Valls said EU is too busy tackling eurozone economies .
Socialist PM said that opening up EU treaties would be 'perilous'
And added that unpicking the right of free movement of people would be ‘to call into question the very basis of the EU’
Cameron has promised tough negotiations to bring about an overhaul of EU rules on free movement .
Free movement allows thousands of migrants to claim benefits in Britain . |
57,576 | a3348cb838a4215f76e3f1f609bb88322414cc77 | PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad and Tobago (CNN) -- President Obama said Friday he is seeking "a new beginning" in U.S. relations with Cuba. President Obama and Venezuela President Hugo Chavez greet each other Friday at the Summit of the Americas. Before addressing the representatives of 34 countries at the Summit of the Americas, Obama and Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez saw each other and shook hands. "Every one of our nations has a right to follow its own path," Obama told the assembly. "But we all have a responsibility to see that the people of the Americas have the ability to pursue their own dreams in democratic societies. "Toward that end, the United States seeks a new beginning with Cuba." Obama arrived in Trinidad and Tobago on Friday evening for the Summit of the Americas, a key meeting of hemispheric powers. Although it was not represented at the talks, the subject of Cuba dominated the president's speech. In prepared remarks, Obama said that "decades of mistrust" must be overcome, but noted that he has already loosened restrictions that limited Americans from traveling to visit relatives in Cuba and from sending money to them. Obama lifted all restrictions Monday on the ability of individuals to visit relatives in Cuba, as well as to send them remittances. That may be just the beginning. "I am prepared to have my administration engage with the Cuban government on a wide range of issues -- from human rights, free speech and democratic reform to drugs, migration and economic issues," he said. "Let me be clear: I am not interested in talking for the sake of talking. But I do believe that we can move U.S.-Cuban relations in a new direction." Obama's comments represent a significant shift in a U.S. policy that has remained largely unchanged since 1962, when the U.S. government imposed a trade embargo with Havana. They come a day after Cuban President Raul Castro said he was prepared to discuss "everything, everything, everything" with the United States. Castro told a summit of leftist Latin American leaders gathered in Venezuela, "We are prepared, wherever they want, to discuss everything -- human rights, freedom of the press, political prisoners," Castro said Thursday. Havana played a major role in Obama's remarks, where he called for rejection of "stale debates" that have undermined opportunities to forge new partnerships. Watch Obama speak about "a new day" » . "They would have us make the false choice between a rigid, state-run economy and unbridled and unregulated capitalism; between blame for right-wing paramilitaries or left-wing insurgents; between sticking to inflexible policies with regard to Cuba or denying the full human rights that are owed to the Cuban people. "I didn't come here to debate the past -- I came here to deal with the future. As neighbors, we have a responsibility to each other and to our citizens. And by working together, we can take important steps forward to advance prosperity, security and liberty." Chavez's press office said Obama walked up to Chavez to greet him, a meeting it called "historic." "President Chavez expressed his hope that relations between the two countries would change," the press office said, quoting Chavez as having told his U.S. counterpart, "Eight years ago with this same hand I greeted Bush. I want to be your friend." It said Obama then thanked Chavez. Chavez once referred to former President Bush as "the devil." On other matters, Obama, who said he is committed to fighting inequality "and creating prosperity from the bottom up," announced a Microfinance Growth Fund for the hemisphere and proposed creating an Energy and Climate Partnership of the Americas "to promote renewable energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions." He also vowed to "take aggressive action" to slash demand for illegal drugs, and to halt the movement of arms and money to Mexico. Obama's push for a rapprochement with Havana is supported by most Americans, 71 percent of whom said they favor re-establishing diplomatic relations, according to a CNN/Opinion Research Corp. poll carried out April 3-5. The poll had a sampling error of plus or minus 3 percentage points. | President Obama says "decades of mistrust" must be overcome .
Summit of Americas comes on heels of U.S. easing travel restrictions .
Obama: "I didn't come here to debate the past -- I came here to deal with future" |
211,504 | 9de12ad101ebbe0e84c30f26ceab31ba52af7e5e | Washington (CNN) -- All in-bound cargo on commercial flights from Europe, the Middle East and Africa -- and quite possibly other areas of the world -- is being screened twice, as a result of the recent terror threats that have closed U.S. embassies and consulates in the Middle East and Africa, according to a cargo industry official. The Department of Homeland Security late last week ordered airlines to increase the inspection of cargo at the last point of departure for the United States, said Brandon Fried, the executive director of Airforwarders Association, a trade group. "They said, 'until further notice, this is what you're going to do,'" Fried said. "Nothing unscreened gets on the plane," Fried said. "Basically they said, 'If you used one method, or several methods (of inspecting cargo), you need to do it again.' It's redundant, dual screening." TSA expanding program to speed security lines . "So now the freight is doubly secure," he said. The U.S. beefed up screening after discovering two toner cartridges packed with plastic explosives on board two aircraft bound for the U.S. in October 2010. Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula took responsibility for the plot. AQAP is involved in the communications leading to the most recent warnings that have closed U.S. facilities, U.S. officials say. Department of Homeland Security officials have declined to say what, if any, security measures have been taken as the result of the recent worldwide terror alert. Travelers must 'say something' In a statement released to the media, a DHS official said: "As always, our security posture, which at all times includes a number of measures both seen and unseen, will continue to respond appropriately to protect the American people from an ever evolving threat picture." Privately, officials say that even in the absence of specific intelligence, it is prudent to increase security in the United States, especially given AQAP's past deeds. Fried said the increased screening has resulted in some backlogs and delays, especially as some airlines have sought to clarify the rules. "We're in August, so it's not the busiest time of year," he said. "Our membership has reported sporadic delays." The impact would have been more severe had the change occurred during busier shipping seasons, he said. Skyjacked: A nation with no airline security . | Cargo entering the U.S. from Europe, the Middle East and Africa is under more scrutiny .
"Redundant, dual screening" is under way, says a cargo industry expert .
Stricter screening prompted by threats that have closed U.S. embassies, consulates . |
26,723 | 4bddd3a2af3f5ba82a4401d1af3c2c911d128c0a | By . Hugo Gye . PUBLISHED: . 09:20 EST, 8 January 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 09:20 EST, 8 January 2013 . Only one in five Britons work in the job they dreamed of as a child - less than in any other large country, it was revealed today. As little boys and girls we fantasise about becoming pilots or doctors, but the overwhelming majority of us have failed to achieve our childhood aim. Nonetheless, many people in the UK have refused to settle for a lesser career - as a third of Britons still hope to land that dream job. Dream: This graphic shows the jobs most longed-for by British boys and girls respectively . In a survey conducted by networking website LinkedIn, just 21 per cent of the site's British users said they worked in the career they had wanted in their youth. This places the UK bottom of the 17 countries surveyed - Indians topped the list, with 44 per cent saying they had the job they had always dreamed about in their youth. Other English-speaking countries also did relatively poorly, with the U.S., Canada, Australia and New Zealand all scoring less than 30 per cent. Ideal: British men fantasise about becoming pilots, while women are more likely to want to be doctors . 1. India - 44% are working in their dream job . 2. Indonesia - 42% . 3. United Arab Emirates - 35.7% . 4. Germany - 33% . 5. Brazil - 32% . 6. Austria - 31% . 7. Switzerland - 30% . 8. USA - 29% . =9. France, Canada, Sweden, South Africa - 28% . =13. Singapore, Hong Kong - 27% . 15. Australia - 26% . 16. New Zealand - 25% . 17. UK - 21% . When LinkedIn asked its users which job they had most wanted in childhood, the results showed a marked gender divide. British men said the career they had coveted most was to be an aeroplane pilot, followed by engineer, scientist or police officer. Most women, by contrast, wanted to be a doctor or nurse, with teacher, writer and singer also high up the list. Meanwhile, those in other countries have different aspirations - American men said they wanted to be Olympic athletes, while women in Sweden longed to become vets. Britons may not be all that happy with their jobs, but they have not lost hope of improving their lot, with 32 per cent revealing they still dream of getting the career they always wanted. When the 8,000 people surveyed in the UK were asked how they would define a dream job, the overwhelming majority - 75 per cent - said that 'taking pleasure in work' was the priority. Nine per cent revealed their main aim was to help others, while five per cent said they longed for flexible working conditions. 'It's never too late to land your ideal job,' said Darain Faraz, a spokesman for LinkedIn spokesperson. 'LinkedIn is a great tool for helping you to find the right job for you and at the beginning of the year when we start to look for new challenges - it's the perfect place to start looking.' | 21% of Brits are working in dream job, survey reveals .
Most UK men wanted to be aeroplane pilots or engineers, while women dreamed of working in medicine . |
160,942 | 5c1124cb350b990a7658bd57d20fcf092e16d95b | Greece's new left-wing prime minister has declared war on the country’s all-inclusive resorts, which are visited by thousands of British families every year. All-you-can-eat buffets and unlimited drinks by the pool are under threat even though that sector of tourism brings in £1.5billion a year for the Greek economy. Alexis Tsipras, leader of the triumphant anti-austerity party Syriza, believes such deals ‘alienate tourists from the local economy’ by keeping them in resorts and away from small businesses. Scroll down for video . Victorious: 'Our priority above all will be to restore the country's lost dignity,' Syriza leader Alexis Tsipras, 40, told a rally of thousands of supporters . Jubilant: Syriza supporters celebrate victory in the Greek general election, in which the anti-austerity party triumphed over ruling conservatives . He has promised to curb the type of mass tourism that Greece has developed in the last few decades. Deals to sell public land to mega-resort developers could be banned and VAT rules are likely to be changed to hit existing holiday developments with higher taxes. Mr Tsipras said: ‘We do not want to continue the current saturated model of intensive exploitation of tourism.’ The new regime says it does not support an outright ban, but wants to encourage a move away from the all-inclusive resorts back to the traditional holiday model where visitors use local bars, restaurants and attractions. Michalis Kritsotakis, the Syriza MP responsible for the party’s tourism policy, told The New York Times: ‘For the all-inclusive, our view, as well as that of the tourism industry, is that it’s not the best thing.’ There are hundreds of all-inclusive hotels on the Greek islands and on the mainland in resorts such as Agios Nikolaos in Crete and Kardamena in Kos. Deals: Holiday-makers can go all-inclusive at the Aquis Arina Sand in Crete, but prices could become unaffordable . They are popular with families on a budget who know that once they have paid, they will not face extra bills for meals, drinks and entertainment. But they are a disaster for local traders and restaurant owners because holidaymakers tend to stay behind the fences of the resorts. British tour operators have long-standing contracts with all-inclusive resorts, meaning any changes to the tax regime in Greece would be unlikely to affect visitors this year. Thomas Cook said: ‘The change in government has no impact on our operations in Greece. As a tour operator, we are there to support our customers, who can be confident they can book their holidays to Greece with us without any concern.’ Tourist chiefs in both Britain and Greece oppose any tax changes that will put up the cost of visiting the country’s resorts. All inclusive: Many families choose the all-in option to save money at locations including Blue Domes Exclusive Resort & Spa is on the Greek island Kos . Heads together: New PM Alexis Tsipras, left, with his new finance minister Yanis Varoufakis . By JASON GROVES, DEPUTY POLITICAL EDITOR FOR THE DAILY MAIL . A Marxist economist who has described austerity as ‘fiscal waterboarding’ was last night appointed as Greece’s finance minister. Yanis Varoufakis has branded the EU a ‘fundamentally anti-democratic, irrational cartel that has put Europe’s peoples on a path to misanthropy, conflict and permanent recession’. His appointment by far-left prime minister Alexis Tsipras will be seen as a signal that the new government will not back down over its demands to slash the country’s crippling debt repayments. Mr Varoufakis, an academic who has held teaching positions in Britain, says repayment of Greece’s £185billion international bailout should be linked to growth. In practice, this would mean nothing is repaid until the economy recovers. The left-wing Syriza party won a shock general election victory on Sunday after pledging to renegotiate the bailout deal and write off more than of half the debt. Mr Tsipras has formed a coalition with the anti-austerity party Independent Greeks. EU leaders have reacted with alarm to Syriza’s victory, with Germany warning Greece it must pay its debts. David Cameron warned the result would ‘increase economic uncertainty across Europe’. Vincenzo Scarpetta, of the think-tank Open Europe, said of Syriza: ‘Proving that their theories can be applied to the current political and economic reality will be a tough test.’ Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras believes such all-inclusive deals 'alienate tourists from the local economy' by keeping them behind resort gates and away from businesses and attractions . The Association of British Travel Agents said this would drive holidaymakers to other Mediterranean countries. A spokesman said: ‘The Greek government will have to consider the impact of any restrictions. ‘All-inclusive holidays continue to grow in popularity, particularly amongst the family market. The Greeks should consider that they might risk losing this slice of the holiday market to other countries such as Turkey and Egypt. 'Even though all-inclusives can be seen as a controversial option, there are pros and cons and many all-inclusives are a vital source of employment for local people, both directly and indirectly.’ Any changes made by the new Government will not affect the cost of package holidays that are currently being advertised by British tour operators as the contracts and prices have already been agreed. 'Suicide': Andreas Andreadis, the president of the Greek Tourism Confederation, said that increasing taxes on accommodation at places like SENTIDO Port Royal Villas & Spa in Rhodes would be like ‘committing suicide’ for Greece . Aquis Arina Sand in Crete is a popular location for holiday-makers, but will it still be affordable if taxes are increased . Andreas Andreadis, the president of the Greek Tourism Confederation, said that increasing taxes on tourist accommodation would be like ‘committing suicide’ for Greece. Last year, all-inclusive deals accounted for about £1.5billion of the Greek travel industry’s projected £12billion in revenue. The Greek National Tourism Organisation said tour operators were hoping the new government acts responsibly. UK director Christina Kalogera said: ‘Everyone is acutely aware of the important role tourism plays in the Greek economy and all Greek governments have always approached tourism policies with respect, which is what we expect the new Government to do once it has formed.’ Danai Badogianni, a spokesman for the new government, said: ‘The new minister for tourism will be announced today and he or she will explain our plans for all-inclusive package holidays in the coming days.’ Right behind her man: Tsipras, followed by his partner Peristera (Betty) Batziana, greets his supporters outside Syriza's headquarters after his Syriza party's win in Sunday's general election . He prefers motorbikes to limousines, refuses to ever wear a tie and lives in a block of flats in one of the most densely populated areas of Greece. Incoming Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras is regarded as a true man of the people, a world away from Greece's political elite which has been characterised by corruption. With the help of his youthful good looks and down-to-earth nature (he happily takes out the rubbish), he has swept to power on a promise to smash the EU's grip on the country's finances. Breaking the stereotype of Greek politics, Mr Tsipras is known for his relaxed attitude: travelling around Athens on motorbikes and preferring open-necked shirts to a suit and tie. He lives with his partner, Betty Batziana, an electrical and computer engineer, with their two boys - Phoebus and Orpheus - in an apartment block in Kypseli, a modest, working-class area of Athens. Their youngest son's middle name is Ernesto – a tribute to Che Guevara, one of Mr Tsipras's idols. Tsipras had never been that interested in politics, instead throwing his energy into sport at a young age until he was sidelined with a knee injury. By his side: Ms Batziana convinced Mr Tsipras to join the Communist Youth of Greece in 1990 after they had met three years earlier at high school in Athens . Humble: The ramshackle block of flats where Tsipras with his partner, Betty Batziana, an electrical and computer engineer, live with their two children in one of the most densely populated areas of Athens . But after meeting Ms Batziana, something of a firebrand student, in 1987 when they were at high school together in Athens, she convinced him to join the Communist Youth of Greece in 1990. After training as an engineer, he eventually went into politics full-time. He was a member of the youth wing of the Greek Communist Party, the KKE, rising to prominence as candidate for the mayor of Athens in 2006. Tsipras became leader of Syriza in 2008 at the age of 34 at the height of Greece's economic crisis. Syriza was formed in 2004 as a coalition of moderate Communists, Trotskyists, ecologists and other leftist groups, but has occasionally found it difficult to present a united front. He has also become the undisputed star of the radical European left, standing against Jean-Claude Juncker in May's election for European Commission president. A year later, the pair found themselves at the centre of student protests against unpopular education reforms. Tsipras spearheaded sit-in demonstrations at their school that saw students living and sleeping in the building for weeks. Ms Batzianas was right by his side then - and still is now - with many seeing her as the driving force behind her partner's leadership. According to friends from the University of Patras, where she graduated in electrical engineering, she is strong-willed, militant and dynamic. She once hauled one of her professors to court when he tried undermine her work on a doctoral thesis, it was reported by the Greek Reporter. She also hates spending hours shopping, doesn't like going for regular trips to the hairdressers and won't spend money on clothes. WISH LIST OF A CHE GUEVARA FAN . | PM Alexis Tsipras said all-in deals 'alienate tourists from local economy'
He warned that contracts with large resort chains will be reviewed .
He is understood to have already briefed major tourism operators on plans .
Estimated two million Brits who visit Greece a year already face a doubling of VAT on hotel rooms under previous government’s plans . |
248,730 | cdd91cfe374524af994b985e5151d802b21056b5 | PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (CNN) -- Nearly 100 Thai soldiers crossed into Cambodian territory Wednesday near a disputed border temple that was the site of clashes last year, Cambodian officials said. Cambodian troops guard the Preah Vihear temple late last year amid heightened tensions with Thailand. The Thai army denied the claim. Thai soldiers crossed into the area of the 11th century Preah Vihear temple about 1:40 p.m., said Phay Siphan, secretary of the Cambodian Council of Ministers. The two sides did not fight and Cambodia has asked Thailand to pull back. Thai Army Col. Sansern Kaewkumnerd said the troop movement was part of a normal rotation and that Thai soldiers had not gone anywhere they were not permitted to be. For months last year, the two countries saber-rattled over the ancient temple. The nations differ on whether some territory around the temple forms part of Thailand or Cambodia. Both countries posted troops in the area after the United Nations in July approved Cambodia's application to have the temple listed as a World Heritage Site -- a place the United Nations says has outstanding universal value. The temple sits atop a cliff on Cambodian soil but has its most accessible entrance on the Thai side. The International Court of Justice awarded the temple to Cambodia in 1962. Thailand claims, however, that the 4.6 sq. km (1.8 square mile) area around it was never fully demarcated. Thailand says the dispute arose from the fact that the Cambodian government used a map drawn during the French occupation of Cambodia -- a map that places the temple and surrounding area in Cambodian territory. The United Nations' decision re-ignited tensions, with some in Thailand fearing it will make it difficult for their country to lay claim to disputed land around the temple. Last year's flare-up began July 15, when Cambodian guards briefly detained three Thais who crossed into the area. Once they were let go, the three refused to leave the territory. Cambodia claimed Thailand sent troops to retrieve the trio and gradually built up their numbers. Thailand denied that, saying its troops are deployed in Thai territory. -- CNN's Tim Schwarz in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and Kocha Olarn in Bangkok, Thailand, contributed to this report. | Official: Thai soldiers crossed into area of 11th century Preah Vihear temple .
The Thai army denied the claim by senior a Cambodian official .
Thai army said soldiers did not go anywhere they were not permitted to be .
Both countries claim territory around the temple belongs to them . |
247,119 | cbcc47670556ae68f627eb546784d58cfc8d66bf | PUERTO MONTT, Chile (CNN) -- Nearly a week after a volcano erupted in Chaiten, Chile, disgorging its contents across a wide area of the Andes Mountains, authorities finished evacuating the area most affected. Though the eruption has been continuous, it increased at midnight Wednesday, powered by a massive explosion, then returned to its steady discharge of ash, officials said. Overnight, authorities armed with a court order evacuated the last of the holdouts -- many of whom had sought to remain to care for their cattle -- among the approximately 5,000 residents inside the 30-kilometer (18-mile) exclusion zone, said Carmen Fernandez, director of Chile's Office of Emergency. By Thursday morning, about 100 people -- primarily police, military and journalists -- remained in the immediate vicinity of the volcano, she said. In Bariloche, 300 kilometers (186 miles) from the volcano, Chilean Minister of Defense Jose Goni met Thursday with Argentine Vice President Julio Cobos to coordinate the transfer of the cows in the affected zone to Argentine territory, 60 kilometers (37 miles) away. Many of Bariloche's residents clutched handkerchiefs to their faces or wore cloth masks -- handed out by the government -- as they went about their business. Even with the masks, breathing could be difficult. Thick layers of ash covered everything like freshly fallen snow. Bariloche's airport and other regional airports were shut Thursday after satellite photos revealed that the air over the provinces of Buenos Aires, La Pampa, Rio Negro, Neuquen and Chubut was filled with ash. The most dense clouds of the material were seen over Chubut and Rio Negro, with lesser amounts in the other provinces. In all, clouds of ash covered nearly a third of Argentina, the country's meteorological service said. As of noon Thursday, ash could be seen in the sky above Buenos Aires and its suburbs, it said. "The sky appears gray, products of the presence of ashes that are moving from west to east at an altitude of about 3,500 meters," the service said. Watch volcano eruption » . "Fortunately, the composition of the ash, air and smoke that is coming out of the volcano isn't highly toxic," said Mirta Roses, director of the Pan American Health Organization. But, she said, children, older people and people with allergies or asthma are at highest risk and should make extra efforts to avoid it. Many of the evacuees were taken to Puerto Montt, a port city in southern Chile about 200 kilometers (124 miles) north of Chaiten. The volcano, which is about 1210 kilometers (752 miles) south of the Chilean capital, Santiago, began erupting early Friday, raining gray ash onto Chaiten. The small city is on the Corcovado Gulf, in southern Chile. The volcano last erupted around 7,420 B.C., according to the Smithsonian's Global Volcanism Project. Chile contains a large number of active volcanoes, including Llaima, which erupted in January, sending lava and smoke down a snow-covered mountain. CNN en Espanol's Alberto Pando contributed to this story . | Approximately 5,000 residents are evacuated, some by court order, officials say .
Authorities coordinate the 60-kilometer transfer of cows out of the affected zone .
Regional airports are shut Thursday after satellite photos show the air full of ash .
Clouds of ash cover nearly a third of Argentina, the meteorological service says . |
61,935 | aff224fff63aa8584290e4032e95e889069e53ca | By . Dan Bloom . PUBLISHED: . 05:03 EST, 30 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 06:55 EST, 30 November 2013 . It seems the spirit of Ebenezer Scrooge is alive and well... in a small town in East Yorkshire. Council officials in Goole ordered the top of a 30ft Christmas tree to be lopped off - because it blocked a CCTV camera. The tree went up earlier this month in the town centre, reaching the dizzy heights of the 90-year-old clock tower next door. Pruned: The top of the Christmas tree in Goole, East Yorkshire, was lopped off - because it blocked CCTV . Blocked: The camera had less than a good view after a 30ft conifer was placed next to it in the town centre . But the tower has a CCTV camera placed on top - which the conifer completely blocked. So Goole Town Council had the top removed, leaving many residents scratching their heads. Former trawlerman Donald Walker, 70, said: 'Why couldn't they just take a bit off the bottom before they put it up, not take the top off? Where is the star going to go? 'They took it off because the camera couldn't see the shopping precinct,' he added. 'It . looked like about five-and-a-half foot they chopped off the top, which . is a shame because it looked like the biggest tree we have had. The conifer was sourced from the . country estate of Castle Howard in North Yorkshire, an hour away, and transported specially to the town square. Lopped: The clock tower, left, and former fisherman Donald Walker, 70, with the discarded top of the tree . Town clerk Brian Robertson denied there was a problem - telling regional newspaper The Press that the tree had been 'shaped' so it would still have a triangle on top. He added: 'I wouldn't say it was five-and-a-half foot that was taken off. We sent the contractors out there with radios and they liased with the control room as to how much to take off. 'The view of the camera was totally obscured by the tree so it had to be taken off.' A town of 20,000, Goole is on the River Humber and has one of the most important ports on the east coast. Its clock tower was erected in 1926 to celebrate the town's centenary - but sits slightly unceremoniously on a roundabout. | Decision by town council left residents perplexed in Goole, East Yorkshire .
30ft tree had been sourced from a country estate and put in town centre .
Outraged resident, 70, said: 'Where is the star going to go?' |
223,194 | acefcbb66cbff82a3e114d62290951e8b8f7944a | By . Emma Innes . PUBLISHED: . 05:41 EST, 25 September 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 07:26 EST, 25 September 2013 . A young boy suffers from a rare medical condition which his parents say makes him burst into tears every time he hears stirring music. Louis Mushrow, nine, has a genetic disorder which causes him to well up if he hears a love song. The schoolboy cries floods of tears whenever he listens to moving classical music or an emotional pop ballad. Louis Mushrow, nine, has Smith-Magenis Syndrome - a rare genetic disorder caused by an abnormality in chromosome 17. His parents say the condition means he cries every time he hears stirring music . Louis’ parents say he breaks down if soulful tunes come on the radio and if he hears them being played in a shop. But Louis isn’t sad - the melodies trigger just the part of the brain which controls the emotions which cause him to sob uncontrollably. His mother Lisa, 40, said: ‘Certain music always makes him cry, especially classical music or pop songs about love. ‘People sometimes think he’s crying because he’s upset. ‘We found out it’s because certain music releases all these emotions in his brain. ‘We can’t really explain it - it’s just the way his brain is wired up.’ Louis (pictured with his mother, Lisa) cries floods of tears whenever he listens to moving classical music or an emotional pop ballad . Mrs Mushrow said: 'Certain music always makes him cry, especially classical music or pop songs about love. People sometimes think he's crying because he's upset. We found out it's because certain music releases all these emotions in his brain' Louis, born six weeks premature, was diagnosed with Smith-Magenis Syndrome which affects only one in every 25,000 people. His family, who live in Hawarden, North Wales, only realised the impact music has on him when he started crying during the Welsh national anthem. They want to raise awareness of the condition which was only discovered in the 1980s. Mother-of-three Mrs Mushrow added: ’Louis is a lovely boy but we have had some nasty comments from people. Louis (pictured with his father, Martin, brother, Adam, and sister, Hannah) was born six weeks early and was diagnosed with SMS when he was nine-weeks-old . ‘Once when we were in a shopping centre he was on the floor screaming when a gentleman said to us: “Sort your son out”. ‘I can only go to the supermarket for a few things at a time as he can’t cope with too much at once. ‘You get dirty looks and people tell you to control your child. But Louis can’t help it. ‘People don’t understand because he doesn’t look like he has special needs. People look at us and think we’re bad parents. ‘That’s why I want to raise awareness about it - there could be other parents who might not be aware their child has the syndrome. Mr and Mrs Mushrow are trying to raise awareness of SMS because they feel Louis' future will be easier if people understand his condition . ‘We were lucky that Louis had the genetic tests at nine-weeks-old and that meant we’ve been able to get specialist help for him.’ Smith-Magenis Syndrome is a genetic disability caused by an abnormality of chromosome 17. The main features of the syndrome include mild to moderate intellectual disability, disturbed sleep patterns and behavioural problems. These behaviour problems can be exhibited in a variety of ways, including frequent temper tantrums, impulsivity, anxiety, distractibility, aggression and self-hitting and self-biting. There is no cure for Louis' condition but his family hope with more research and continued education he will be able to finish school . SMS is typically not inherited and people with the condition most often have no history of the condition in their family. Mrs Mushrow, and her husband Martin, 41, recently took part in a country-wide fundraiser for the Jeans for Genes charity that raises money for children with genetic disorders. The couple have two other children Adam, 14 and Hannah, three, who are not affected by the condition. There is no cure for Louis’ condition but his family hope with more research and continued education he will be able to finish school. Mrs Mushrow said: ‘I hope that he’ll go on to college one day. I just want him to be safe and happy.’ Smith-Magenis Syndrome (SMS) is a developmental disorder that affects many parts of the body. The major features of this condition include mild to moderate learning disabilities, distinctive facial features, sleep disturbances, and behavioral problems. Individuals with Smith-Magenis Syndrome also have a short flat head, prominent forehead, broad square face, deep-set eyes, underdeveloped midface, broad nasal bridge, short nose, tented upper lip, and a chin that is small in infancy and becomes relatively prominent with age. These facial differences can be subtle in early childhood, but they usually become more distinctive in later childhood and adulthood. During infancy these children often have feeding problems, failure to thrive, weak muscle tone, prolonged napping and lethargy. Later in childhood and adulthood they can develop disturbed sleep patterns (difficulty falling asleep, regular waking throughout the night and sleepiness in the day), as well as behavioural problems. These behaviour problems can be displayed in a variety of ways, including frequent temper tantrums, impulsivity, anxiety, aggression and self-injurious behaviours including self-hitting, self-biting, and skin picking. Smith-Magenis Syndrome affects an estimated one in 25,000 individuals. The syndrome is caused by an abnormality in the short (p) arm of chromosome 17 and is sometimes called the 17p- syndrome. Source: Smith-Magenis Syndrome Foundation UK . | Louis Mushrow has Smith-Magenis Syndrome which is caused by an abnormality in chromosome 17 - it only affects one in every 25,000 people .
He wells up if he hears stirring music because 'it triggers the part of his brain which controls emotions' - but he is not upset .
The main features of SMS .
include mild to moderate intellectual disability, disturbed sleep .
patterns and behavioural problems . |
179,372 | 743f996593d48e462921dbaa7be7ef49bc01b8b4 | Carlo Ancelotti confirmed Manchester United target Angel Di Maria was dropped from Friday’s Spanish Super Cup defeat against Atletico. 'He was left out for football reasons' Ancelotti said when asked why the Argentine had not even made the bench at the Vincente Calderon Stadium. The snub for a player who Ancelotti confirmed has asked to leave the club is further proof that relations between player and club have reached the point of no return and will be a source of great encouragement to Manchester United who are weighing up a £50million bid for the Argentine World Cup star. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Cristiano Ronaldo flick Angel di Maria the V sign . Dropped: Angel Di Maria was left out of Real Madrid's squad to face Atletico in the Super Cup on Friday night . Real Madrid supporters have left the club in no doubt that they want Di Maria to stay but president Florentino Perez wants him sold to help the club balance the books after their staggering spending spree this summer with the acquisitions of Toni Kroos and James Rodrgiguez. Madrid were embarrassed by the reaction of the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday when Di Maria came on as a second half substitute and was given a huge ovation by supporters. Ancelotti confirmed on Friday that the player had turned down the offer of a new deal and asked for a move. But Di Maria’s new deal would only have seen him clear 5million euros and he wants parity with those in the Spanish capital who are in the second tier of Real’s wage structure and earn 8million net a season. Big spenders: Real are keen to offload Di Maria following the arrivals of James Rodriguez and Toni Kroos . Supporters who saw him play a huge role in Real’s Champions League success last season believe he is worth it but the club have made no second offer and he will be a United player if they find the money to meet both the asking price and the player’s wage demands. Barcelona paper Sport are suggesting that Barcelona had made a 60m euro bid for the player but the midfielder Xavi dismissed the idea Di Maria could do a ‘reverse Figo’ in moving from between Spain’s big two. ‘He’s a great player but it is very rare that that happens,’ Xavi said. A fan poll on Sport’s website revealed 80 per cent of Barca fans wanting the unlikely swoop to take place. And Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone said on Tuesday that he is ‘Real Madrid’s best player’. It seems everyone bar the Real board want the Argentine. What remains to be seen is if United want him enough and can persuade him to give up Champions League football for a season. You can Like our dedicated Manchester United Facebook page here. Fan favourite: Di Maria was given a standing ovation by Madrid supporters against Atletico on Tuesday night . | Manchester United target Angel Di Maria dropped by Real Madrid .
Argentina winger left out as Madrid were beaten by rivals Atletico .
Manager Carlo Ancelotti claimed wideman was 'left out for football reasons'
Red Devils weighing up a £50million move for former Benfica star . |
287,101 | fffc526273772fe55ebd9feb2deb5bf18e1dc258 | By . Kerry Mcdermott . PUBLISHED: . 06:15 EST, 4 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 09:28 EST, 4 May 2013 . Thousands of drivers were stuck in long tailbacks today after a chemical spillage brought bank holiday getaway traffic to a halt on the M25. Essex Police arrested a lorry driver after the spillage, which saw a section of the key route between junctions 25 and 27 closed off from 5am this morning as emergency services worked to clear up the mess. Frustrated drivers were seen getting out of their stalled vehicles as queues snaked along the clockwise M25 in the wake of the spillage, which saw around 3,000 litres of chemical fluid flowing across the carriageway near the village of Theydon Bois. Jam: Hundreds were stuck on the M25 at the start of the bank holiday weekend today after a chemical spill between junctions 26 and 27 in Essex . The incident cut off a key route for drivers making their way to Stansted Airport at the start of the bank holiday weekend. The lorry driver, a 43-year-old man from Bulgaria, was arrested on suspicion of committing motoring offences . The section of road in Waltham Abbey is not expected to re-open to traffic for several more hours. Police in Essex said they were contacted by several motorists shortly before 5am following reports that a number of containers had fallen off the back of a lorry which had struck the central reservation. Officers arrived and found approximately 3,000 litres of a chemical liquid on the road. They were forced to close the road for safety reasons and the Highways Agency began implementing diversions. Tottenham Hotspur had to delay their match against Southampton at White Hart Lane by half an hour because of the traffic problems affecting supporters making their way to the game. Spillage: Police closed a section of the key route from 5am as emergency services worked to clear up the chemical spillage in Waltham Abbey, Essex . Going nowhere fast: Stranded drivers got out of their cars on the motorway this morning . The agency said firefighters from . Essex County Fire and Rescue Service are battling to clear up the . spillage, after which an inspection will be carried out to determine . whether the motorway will need to be re-surfaced. Drivers were being diverted via the A10, A406 and the M11 this morning. The Highways Agency was advising long-distance drivers to use the anti-clockwise M25 via Heathrow to avoid the jams. | Clockwise M25 closed between junctions 25 and 27 from 5am today .
Containers fell from back of lorry and struck central reservation .
Bulgarian man, 43, arrested on suspicion of motoring offences .
Essex firefighters battling to clear up chemical spill in Waltham Abbey .
Jams affected football fans en route to see Spurs take on Southampton .
Officials delayed kick-off at White Hart Lane in light of M25 queues . |
28,081 | 4f95cc99aadffa18e904cd6fcb27a763022876e1 | The collapse of Easter Island's civilisation is often used as a cautionary tale to show the folly of humans who over-exploit their surroundings. But a group of leading U.S scientists now believe the tale - which documents how the population collapsed due to deforestation - is completely false and 'misleading'. Legend says the island's landscape was washed away by the destruction of the palm forests, which ruined the fertile soil and forced the population to descend into cannibalism. A group of leading U.S scientists says that the tale about Easter Island's demise due to deforestation and cannibalism is completely false and 'misleading' But research published yesterday says the population was actually decimated by the arrival of Europeans - who brought syphilis, smallpox and slavery onto the land. The scientists believe that many inhabitants survived perfectly well after the final tree was cut down, which goes against the wide belief that the island's inhabitants caused their own downfall. The academics reached their conclusion by looking at tools used by the islanders for farming, which were scattered around the land. They found that, instead of there being a sudden collapse in farming, there was a much more gradual decline in some areas. The findings by the Virginia Commonwealth University have now been published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The study will come as welcome news to the Rapa Nui - the indigenous name for the islanders - who have never been keen on the narrative about how their own stupidity ruined Easter Island. Easter Island is one of the most remote inhabited island in the world, more than 2,180 miles away from the coast of Chile and 1,289 miles from the nearest inhabited island . Speaking about the concept of 'collapse', Professor Sue Hamilton - who was not directly involved in the study - told The Times: 'It is a terrible presumption to say there was a food shortage.'She added: 'Starvation is not an automatic result of tree removal and neither is warfare.' Easter Island is one of the most remote inhabited island in the world, more than 2,180 miles away from the coast of Chile and 1,289 miles from the nearest inhabited island. Yet the main belief is that it is thought that shortly before 1200 AD, Polynesians sailed to the island and began to settle there. The population on the island grew quickly as settlements were formed, thriving for hundreds of years. Some scientists estimate that at its height, Easter Island's population may have been as much as 20,000 people. Some experts believe the fertile land allowed the population time to develop a rich culture and gave them time to carve the distinctive moai stone heads that the island is now famous for. Around 1200 AD, the inhabitants apparently began cutting down the island's subtropical trees and giant palms in large numbers to build canoes and to transport the giant stone statues. However, the destruction of the palm forests that covered the island led to much of the fertile soil washing away, damaging the natural wildlife. That's when people began to starve. In a last ditch effort at survival, they became cannibals. Legend says that the collapse of the island's ecology and civilization was so complete that by the time the Dutch arrived in the 1700s, Easter Island was a sandy grassland void of nearly all its native wildlife. Its human inhabitants were reduced to a starving population of 3,000 or less, scientists say. | Legend says island washed away due to deforestation and cannibalism .
But U.S researchers say the cautionary tale is false and 'misleading'
Scientists believe population wiped out by syphilis, smallpox and slavery .
Study found many survived perfectly well after final tree was cut down . |
272,098 | ec711713ecfb964c4bd185dfddc0e9d153563cb5 | If you think your commute is a living hell, then spare a thought for these subway passengers in Tokyo. Packed like sardines into sweaty, claustrophobic carriages, these passengers can barely breathe let alone move about freely. The photographs are the work of Michael Wolf, a German-born artist who has been capturing the cramped conditions of Japanese capital's transport network for 15 years. Scroll down for video . No breathing space: Michael Wolf's 'Tokyo Compression' photographs capture the cramped misery of the morning commute in the Japanese capital. The German-born photographer has spent 15 years documenting the overcrowded and sweaty conditions on a subway network used daily by 11 million people . What a squeeze! These passengers don't have an inch in which to move and are pressed up against the steamy glass windows. The one on the left stares out of the carriage, while the one on the right seeks solace in music . Tokyo is world famous for its urban density and so the public transport nightmare is hardly surprising. And despite being squeezed and stretched every day, it's the dignified way the commuters cope with the depressing daily grind that Wolf's pictures bring out. He has just released a third volume of pictures in his portfolio 'Tokyo Compression' which has been published in a book by Peperoni Books and Asia One Books. Standing on the platform as the doors snap shut, Wolf has been able to capture a whole range of expressions from his unwilling and trapped subjects. Some stare disconcertingly at the lens, others close their eyes to try and escape the brutal overcrowding, while others have their faces contorted against the steamy glass windows. Sardines: Wolf has been taking pictures of the Tokyo morning rush hour for 15 years, working Monday to Friday between 7.30 and 8.45am at the same subway station . Forty winks: Many passengers close their eyes to try and think about something other than the crush, Wolf found, while the man on the left gives out a yawn which suggests he may need a bit more sleep . Going head to head: You never know who you will be squeezing up against on the Tokyo Subway. Many frequent commuters have worked out their own personal methods of winning some space, taking advantage of anything they may have to hand - umbrellas, bags and briefcases - to make room . Wolf first experienced the Japanese subway network when reporting on the aftermath of the sarin nerve gas attack which killed 16 people and injured 6,000 in 1995. His collection of images quickly grew into a portfolio first exhibited in 2008. 'I shot six frames of faces of early morning commuters in subway windows which turned out to be very powerful images,' said Wolf to Landscape Stories of his work. 'I spent 20 days [Monday to Friday] every morning from 7.30 until 8.45 at the same subway station shooting portraits of people on their way to work.' 'The images create a sense of discomfort as his victims attempt to squirm out of view or simply close their eyes, wishing the photographer to go away,' reads the description on Wolf's website. 'Tokyo Compression depicts an urban hell and by hunting down these commuters with his camera, Wolf highlights the complete vulnerability of the city at its most extreme.' Ghostly: Some of the commuters take on a hauntingly pale complexion, giving the impression they are hopelessly trapped on their journey . Push button to exit: The trains are packed to capacity between first light and late morning in Tokyo, with the carriages appearing fit to burst as they arrive into the stations. White-gloved 'oshiya' or pushers have been employed on the network since 1955 to forcibly shove passengers into the carriages . Eleven million commuters use Tokyo's transport network every morning, with suburban and subway trains reliably packed to the brim from first light to late morning. It is a sign that Tokyo's tsukin jigoku [commuting hell] has grown steadily out of hand that the railway companies have employed white-gloved oshiya (pushers) to shove passengers into carriages since 1955. Regular commuters have become deft at performing what is known as the Tokyo pirouette, which allows them to slide into the carriage and then stand without having to make eye contact with those who have moved aside. Scuffles between frustrated commuters have become more and more common, while notorious chikan [subway molesters] take advantage of the overcrowding to fondle fellow passengers. Passengers are well trained in using whatever they have on them - bags, briefcases and umbrellas, for example - to fight for space. Police have reported a massive rise in 'commuter incidents' - injuries and assaults. Cheek to cheek: Being squashed against the glass of a subway train is a common occurrence in Tokyo, where as many as 11 million people use the creaking network to get to and from work every day . Chin up: In situations like this, all you can do is try and keep your spirits up. Wolf was surprised by the dignity and stoicism of the passengers, despite the ever-worsening transport nightmare . | Series of pictures by Michael Wolf, entitled 'Tokyo Compression' document the misery of the morning commute in the Japanese capital .
Wolf has spent 15 years documenting the cramped and sweaty conditions of a Subway network used by 11 million people every day . |
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