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95,104 | 06323936dec07880e9fc2a226797b37f16956593 | Steven Gerrard accused Mario Balotelli of showing 'disrespect' for taking the penalty which earned Liverpool a 1-0 Europa League win over Besiktas ahead of Reds captain Jordan Henderson. Balotelli tucked away the spot-kick to earn the hosts' a narrow first-leg lead, but only after an apparent disagreement with Henderson, the captain on the night, and Daniel Sturridge over who would take it. Gerrard, who is injured, was working as a pundit for ITV for the match, and criticised Balotelli for his behaviour. Daniel Sturridge (left), Mario Balotelli (centre) and Jordan Henderson argue over Liverpool's awarded penalty . Balotelli (right) picks up the ball after team-mate Jordon Ibe wins a penalty late on against Besiktas . Sturridge (centre right) pulls Henderson (right) aside to complain about Balotelli taking the penalty . Sturridge (left) and Henderson (centre) watch on as Balotelli puts the ball down on the penalty spot . The Italy international coolly stepped up to the penalty spot before finishing with aplomb to score . The 24-year-old watches on as his penalty sends the Besiktas goalkeeper the wrong to put Liverpool ahead . 'Jordan should have taken the penalty. Rules are rules. It should have been Henderson. Mario has been a bit mischievous,' the former England captain said on ITV. 'Credit to Mario, he's scored, but it's not nice to see when footballers are arguing. I think Jordan has handled the situation very well. He can see that Mario really wanted to score. Jordan walked away at the right moment and handled his post-match interview very well. 'Jordan is the captain and Mario showed Jordan a bit of disrespect there, but he's scored a very important goal. I think six or seven players would have wanted to take that penalty so if they all say they are taking it, what happens then? Rules are in place for a reason.' Henderson tried to play down the disagreement after the match, saying: 'I wanted the penalty, Mario felt confident and he has taken big penalties before. Everyone wants to take them. I felt confident in Mario, he has taken big penalties before and he got the nod.' After the match Balotelli took to social media to diffuse the situation and thank Henderson for letting him take the spot kick. Balotelli sticks out his arms in celebration in front of the cop as scores his second goal in three games . Alberto Moreno (front left) tries to comfort Sturridge over the penalty incident amid the celebrations . The England international looks less than impressed though despite his side's lead . Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard believes Balotelli has disrespcted Henderson over taking the penalty . The injured Reds skipper was speaking on ITV as TV pundit for the Europa League tie on Thursday night . 'Thank you hendo for let me take the penalty.. Stop drama now. We won that's what it count. We are a team and expecially we are Liverpool. Come on guys,' he posted on Instagram with a picture of the pair celebrating his goal in front of the Kop. He then added on Twitter: 'And .. Thank all of you supporters . Thanks with all my heart. You are great. Now let's think about sunday match.' [sic] . Speaking shortly after his £16million summer acquisition's arrival, Reds boss Brendan Rodgers insisted that he made it clear to Balotelli that he would not be taking penalties when Gerrard was in the team. 'He's brilliant at them - and he knows it,' Rodgers said on the situation in August. 'But Steven Gerrard's the penalty taker. Simple.' The 24-year-old has a formidable record from the spot, not having missed one in 26 attempts for club and country until last September. | Liverpool beat Besiktas 1-0 in their Europa League last 32 first leg tie .
Mario Balotelli scored a late penalty to give the Reds the win on Thursday .
Balotelli was seen arguing with vice-captain Jordan Henderson and Daniel Sturridge over who should take the penalty .
Regular captain and penalty taker Steven Gerrard is currently out injured .
Gerrard was speaking as a TV pundit for ITV at Anfield . |
279,451 | f6064105a59fc52323c6f6e077b998e48e812488 | By . Phil Vinter . PUBLISHED: . 08:53 EST, 11 June 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 11:25 EST, 11 June 2012 . An intricate watch concealed within a gleaming £5 gold coin that was a love gift from King Edward VIII to his first mistress is expected to sell for thousands when it goes under the hammer next week. The young Prince of Wales gave the beautiful token of his affection to Freda Dudley Ward some years after he had a passionate affair with the married socialite in 1918. The pair had romantically met in a doorway in London’s Mayfair as they sheltered from a Zeppelin raid during the First World War. Intricate: This watch hidden inside a gold coin which King Edward VIII gave to his first mistress Freda Dudley is expected to fetch at least £15,000 when it is auctioned in London next week . Artistic: The beautiful front and back of the coin watch. Edward had met Freda Dudley-Ward in doorway as they sheltered from a bombing raid . Beautiful: Prince Edward was presented with the wafer-thin watch created inside the 1902 £5 gold coin when he opened the Scottish Motor Exhibition in 1927 . The Prince of Wales broke off the relationship in 1934 when Wallis Simpson came into his life - the relationship which sparked the dramatic abdication crisis. Prince Edward was presented with the wafer-thin watch, created inside the 1902 £5 gold coin, when he opened the Scottish Motor Exhibition in 1927 and had it engraved with the initials ‘F’ and ‘D’, for his pet name David, and presented it to his secret lover. Auctioneer James Grinter said: 'This watch is a unique piece of Royal history linked to the man who became the Duke of Windsor and we are expecting a lot of interest from collectors around the world.' Lovers: King Edward VIII, left, with his mistress Freda and her husband Liberal MP William Dudley-Ward . The watch is due to go under the . hammer a week tomorrow at Colchester auctioneers Reeman Dansie’s sale of . Royal memorabilia which includes items from the Queen, Princess Diana, . the Queen Mother, the Duke and Duchess of Windsor and other monarchs. It is estimated to reach between £10,000 and £15,000. Mr . Grinter said: 'The watch has a beautifully-made, extremely thin . 18-jewel movement by Stablis of Switzerland so it can actually be closed . on a hinge inside the £5 coin. 'The . Prince was obviously impressed by the concept because he later bought a . very similar £5 gold coin watch from Cartier for Wallis Simpson and . that sold two years ago at Sotheby’s for £27,500.' Controversial: Edward VIII broke off his affair with Freda after he met Wallis Simpson, pictured left, the woman whom he eventually married after abdicating from the throne . The Prince of Wales and Freda Dudley Ward were both 23 when they met in 1918 and began their affair. She had already been married for five years and had two daughters by a husband 16 years her senior, but that didn’t stop the Prince bombarding her with extravagant gifts - including the watch. Next week’s Royal sale also includes a rare dinner menu from the Canadian steamship RMS Lady Somers signed by the Duke of Windsor and Wallis Simpson as they sailed to the Bahamas in August 1940, where the Duke was due to take up his post as Governor. The signed menu, which is estimated at £250 to £350, shows the couple dined on dishes including Canapes de Langouste Rossini and Roast Quarters of Lamb a la Menthe. Reeman Dansie’s Royal memorabilia sale is in Colchester on June 19. | King Edward VIII started affair with first mistress after doorway meeting during bomb raid .
Originally given to King in 1927 at opening of Scottish Motor Exhibition .
Royal sale also includes dinner .
menu signed by Duke of .
Windsor and Wallis Simpson . |
271,474 | eba1918a3ccbe80fabe2f82aab2b4d3a31ba9d3f | (CNN Student News) -- May 10, 2011 . Download PDF maps related to today's show: . • Mississippi River • Japan • Normal, Illinois . Transcript . THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED. CARL AZUZ, CNN STUDENT NEWS ANCHOR: Hello, everyone! This Tuesday on CNN Student News, we're taking you under the big top. First, though, we're headed down the mighty Mississippi. First Up: Flood Waters Rising . AZUZ: That would be the Mississippi River, which is causing floods up and down its path through the United States. Want to take you down the river now to check out some of what's been going on. We're gonna start in southern Illinois, in the city of Cairo. You see it right there on your screen. Flooding was threatening to wipe out the entire town. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers came up with this plan to help Cairo and some other communities nearby. And that brings us down into Missouri. What the Corps did was intentionally blow up a levee, a barrier that's designed to actually prevent flooding. That helped the towns up in Illinois, but it purposely flooded some parts of Missouri, some farms. And a lot of people, especially farmers, angry with this plan. One farmer said she felt like she was suffering for somebody else. The flooding has followed the Mississippi's path through Arkansas and down into Louisiana, as you see here. Yesterday, engineers opened a spillway north of the city of New Orleans. The goal here is to help ease the pressure on the river, hopefully lower the flood levels, keep the water away from New Orleans. But just to get an idea of how much water we're talking about, a commander with the Army Corps of Engineers offered an analogy. He said the water that's rushing through the Mississippi right now, in one second, could fill up an area the size of a football field 44 feet deep. We're also seeing flooding in states that the Mississippi branches off to, like Tennessee. Holly Firfer has more on the situation there. (BEGIN VIDEO) HOLLY FIRFER, CNN NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Tennessee's largest city is in the cross hairs. Memphis now has the "most high-risk population" for flooding, according to the Army Corps of Engineers. On Tuesday, authorities expect the Mississippi to crest at 48 feet outside the city, less than a foot shy of the record level set in 1937. With the Mississippi swollen by a month of abnormally high rainfall, its tributaries are overflowing, with nowhere for their water to flow. At least 1,100 homes and trailers in and around Memphis have been evacuated. 400 residents of Shelby County are currently in shelters. On Sunday, officials went door to door to alert others that they may also need to leave their homes. The mayor of Memphis is confident that all those who need to escape the rising waters will be evacuated. MAYOR AC WHARTON, MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE: We'll get them out. Some are holding out to the last minute, but we think in the end they're going to come on out. FIRFER: Officials say while there is great pressure on the levees around Memphis, they are currently performing as expected. (END VIDEO) Is This Legit? TOMEKA JONES, CNN STUDENT NEWS: Is this legit? The United States and China have the world's largest economies. Legit! That means these countries have a lot of influence when it comes to global finances. Economic Talks . AZUZ: Well, the global economy is one of the big issues ahead as representatives from the U.S. and China meet in Washington this week. This is the third set of meetings between the two governments. Last week, one Chinese economic official said, "To be frank, we have different views that make discussion necessary." Some of those different views have to do with the economic policies of the U.S. and China. Since they're the world's biggest economies, what each country does -- its economic practices, the decisions it makes -- can have a pretty big impact on the other nation. Some other subjects are likely to come up during the meetings. That includes human rights, concerns about North Korea's nuclear program, and the U.S. and China working together to fight terrorism. Reactors . AZUZ: Moving to Japan, where officials are shutting down a nuclear power plant. Not the Fukushima Daiichi plant, the one we've talked about since Japan's earthquake and tsunami in March. No, the one we're talking about today is the Hamaoka plant. The owner announced it's being shut down after Japan's prime minister warned that Hamaoka was vulnerable to natural disasters, like the ones that damaged the Fukushima plant. Hamaoka's owner says safety is his company's first priority. Meanwhile, workers went back inside one of the reactors at the Fukushima plant yesterday. They were checking on a ventilation system that was installed last week. The system is filtering out radioactive substances so that engineers can go in and shut down the reactor. Shoutout . MATT CHERRY, CNN STUDENT NEWS: Today's Shoutout goes out to Miss Abromitis' class at the Sarah Rawson Smith School in Atlanta, Georgia! What is the scientific name for a fear of heights? Here we go! Is it: A) Agoraphobia, B) Aurophobia, C) Acrophobia or D) Arachnophobia? You've got three seconds -- GO! Fear of heights is acrophobia, from the root word acro, which means height. That's your answer and that's your Shoutout! Gamma Phi Circus . AZUZ: That's also where we get the word acrobat, like tightrope walkers and trapeze artists; the kind of folks you'd see in a circus. Ted Rowlands visited a school in Illinois where students can train to be part of the show. It's not clown college. It's a regular university where the person sitting next to you in Chemistry 101 could be double-majoring in Circus Studies. (BEGIN VIDEO) UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Is our identity going to become more external than it has been internal? TED ROWLANDS, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Sarah Bowden is a sophomore at Illinois State University. UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Boys and girls, children of all ages. ROWLANDS: She is also a circus performer. Sarah is part of Illinois State's Gamma Phi Circus, a school-sponsored circus team that dates back to 1929. It's the oldest of two college circus programs in the country; the other is at Florida State. SARAH BOWDEN, CIRCUS PERFORMER, ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY STUDENT: So, this is the basic way to get up into the lyric hoop. ROWLANDS: Sarah was a gymnast in high school, but like most of her teammates had no circus experience. What do your parents think of all this? BOWDEN: My parents are really supportive. You know, the minute I joined the circus, they're like, "What, you joined the circus?" MARCUS ALOUAN, CIRCUS DIRECTOR, ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY: I think any one of us who has ever come through Gamma Phi Circus has had that conversation with their parents where they're trying to explain that it's still a part of the university, but it's something in addition to going to classes. ROWLANDS: Marcus Alouan, a former student at Illinois State and circus performer, is now the director of the circus program. ALOUAN: For the most part, we look for somebody who's strong, hardworking and coachable. ROWLANDS: And doesn't have a fear of heights? ALOUAN: That certainly helps. Although, actually, we have a lot of people who seek us out because they want to overcome that. ROWLANDS: Senior Nena Woo, who broke her arm in a trapeze fall, says after graduating, she wants to join a professional circus. NENA WOO, CIRCUS PERFORMER, ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY STUDENT: I'm graduating with a degree in public relations. If I can do that with a circus company or somewhere in entertainment, I'd love to do that. ROWLANDS: The circus team has about 75 members. They don't compete, but they do perform every spring. Dating back more than 80 years, Gamma Phi Circus puts on a series of shows at the university. This was Sarah's first performance. BOWDEN: Not in a million years did I think I'd be in a circus. So, I am so happy that I did it, though. ROWLANDS: Ted Rowlands, CNN, Normal, Illinois. (END VIDEO) Blog Report . AZUZ: A school without grade levels: We talked about this last Wednesday. You're talking about it right now! Alexis starts us off: "It would help with discipline problems, but with everybody working at their own pace, some students won't get the push they need." Avery is home schooled, but thinks students shouldn't be grouped by age but by knowledge. "Some students in a class grouped by age may be behind or ahead and thus ignored." Clive says it could be a good idea. "Teachers won't have to worry about leaving students behind who struggle or giving students who are ahead lessons on what they already know." From Meg: "A big part of school is the social part. All kids deserve to be with kids who are going through the same things." Celeste writes, "students who usually get caught behind will have a better chance to truly learn the material rather than sit in a class they don't understand." But Alex argues, "It could make kids feel like they aren't as smart as their classmates, which would degrade their work. Some might get picked on because they aren't at the same level." Before We Go . AZUZ: Before we go, we want to show you some baby pictures. Never said they were gonna be human. This mini-me here is the newest addition to a safari park in Florida. Her name is Laini, and she's a southern white rhinoceros. It's usually not polite to talk about a lady's weight, but Laini -- who's less than two weeks old -- already weighs 50 pounds! One thing's for sure: she does not have a dry wit, or any kind of a sense of humor, really. Goodbye . AZUZ: You can go ahead and ask her. Are you wry? No, serious. Rhi-no-cerus. It wasn't our best pun, but will it be our last? Rhi-no, no it won't. I'm Carl Azuz, and CNN Student News will be herding back your way tomorrow. | Follow the path and impact of flooding along the Mississippi River .
Find out why officials are shutting down another Japanese nuclear plant .
Visit a university in Illinois where students study the circus arts .
Use the Daily Discussion to help students understand today's featured news stories . |
106,817 | 15c949359cb930d34e1b5bfe7cb43d151e224c2e | Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith said the introduction of the 'under-occupancy penalty' is not designed to punish pensioners . A 'bedroom tax' being introduced by the Government could force pensioners to move into smaller houses. The measures, which are part of the new universal credit scheme, will mean that those with a spare bedroom will be penalised. Around 600,000 are expected to be affected by the reforms, which are expected to result in a cut of approximately £14 a week. The plans are aimed at those renting council housing or housing association properties and not those in private properties. The changes are an attempt to encourage those who have spare bedrooms to downsize. Pensioners currently living in council properties will not be affected by the changes, which will come into effect in April. But those entering the benefit system will face deductions in benefits due to the 'under-occupancy penalty'. The Government has made concessions in the plans, excluding existing elderly claimants where somebody of working age also lives in the property. But it is understood the exemption will cease to exist for new claimants in mixed-age homes after October, despite mixed homes previously being exempt after the plans are introduced in April. DWP guidance, seen by the Sunday People, says: 'New housing benefit claimants who are mixed aged couples and claiming pension credit will not be exempt when they transfer on to Universal Credit.' Cuts: Around 600,000 are expected to be affected by the reforms, which are expected to result in a cut of approximately £14 a week . Shadow work and pensions secretary Liam Byrne said that the Prime Minister needed to 'get a grip fast' and warned that the scheme could 'descend into chaos' Shadow work and pensions secretary . Liam Byrne criticised the plans, saying: 'Ministers promised to protect . pensioners from the bedroom tax, but thousands are set to lose out.' He added: 'David Cameron had better get a grip fast, before this scheme descends into total chaos.' Iain Duncan Smith, however, said that pensioners would not suffer because of the plans and said that the application of the rules had yet to be finalised. Speaking on The Andrew Marr Show, he said: 'The reality is that they are looking at universal credit further down the road. 'It is not our intention that pensioners in any way will suffer.' He added: 'This is not about punishing people. This is about trying to reallocate the housing. It is about getting the balance right.' | Around 600,000 people expected to be hit by reforms .
£14 deducted every week per empty bedroom as part of new universal credit scheme .
Iain Duncan Smith said plans were not intended to punish people .
But Labour said that the PM 'had better get a grip' |
174,956 | 6e716c6fdb98f9936daade76b46de7dd5f3a9025 | Few ancient civilizations have left an architectural footprint quite as indelible as the Nabateans did in Petra, southern Jordan. Majestic temples, burial chambers and homes still stand, carved around 2,300 years ago from the rose-hued landscape. Logic would dictate that the relics strewn throughout the 2.8 million square feet of Petra Archaeological Park would provide historians with a bounty of information about the ancient culture. In fact, surprisingly little is known about ancient Nabatean life and traditions. An estimated 85% of the area has never been excavated, and there is precious little in the way of written records. "I don't think we really understand what significance some of these structures truly had," says Megan Perry, an associate professor at East Carolina University's department of anthropology. Recently, a team of archaeoastronomers sought to gain some insight into the function of these ancient structures by measuring their celestial alignments. Their findings, which were published in the Nexus Network Journal, suggests that the Nabateans purposefully built Petra's most sacred structures to align or light-up during celestial phenomena, including the summer and winter solstices and the equinoxes. Juan Antonio Belmonte, the study's leader at the Institute of Astrophysics of the Canary Islands (IAC), notes that the effect is particularly stunning at Ad Deir, also known as The Monastery -- one of Petra's most visited attractions. "The lighting is spectacular; the sun setting through the gate perfectly illuminates the sacred areas of the deep interior," he says. "Apart from the beauty of the situation itself, the effect -- which would have been observable only a week or so before and after the winter solstice -- also gives you information about the purpose of the building." Indeed, there's been much debate in the archeology community over the exact function of Ad Deir. Why was it built? Was it a tomb? A temple? Prior to Belmonte's study, there haven't been any clear answers. "With such an alignment, it's now clear that it was certainly a temple with an astral religious character," says Belmonte. "This can help us understand the religious beliefs of the Nabateans, and also their way of controlling time. It shows they could monitor the lunar calendar by solar and lunar observation. We're really finding a lot of utility in these kind of measurements," he adds. Perry, who was not involved in the study, but who co-heads The Petra North Ridge Project, says that while she finds the findings plausible, she's not entirely convinced by the methodology employed. "I think the idea that the Nabateans could have done this is actually not that surprising; it sort of goes along with other aspects of their religion, and potentially their understanding of place and space," she says. Perry has spent a lot of time studying the layout of monuments in Petra for clues as to whether the city was laid out organically, or -- as Belmonte suggest -- if it was planned. "The tombs seem to be based on natural topography. Nothing in terms of their layout suggests a tie to any kind of solar orientation. If there was one, they'd all be facing the same way, but they surround the city and face in an infinite number of directions," she notes. Belmonte, who measured the alignment of over 30 Nabatean monuments, both in Petra and at other sites throughout Jordan and Israel, says his measurements are too consistent to be a coincidence. "When you study the alignments, you produce a histogram that has a certain credibility from a statistical point of view. If this is by chance, the probability is very small," he says. Interactive: Do camel bones discredit the bible? | A new study claims the ruins at Petra, Jordan were built to align with the sun during the solstices and equinoxes .
Despite the breadth of the ruins, only 85% have ever been excavated .
Little is known about the function of many of Petra's structures .
The study's leader hopes his findings will shed new light on how Petra functioned . |
269,748 | e960738caa9d39737f459e39923b20160f73f258 | By . Eddie Wrenn . PUBLISHED: . 11:33 EST, 15 May 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 01:38 EST, 16 May 2012 . He's back! Furby - one of the biggest Christmas crazes - is returning for 2012 . Parents were warned today to prepare for a Furby invasion this Christmas. Yes, that furry mechanical friend, which resembles a malevolent hamster crossed with a chimp, has had its first makeover in six years. Makers Tiger Electronics aren't giving anything away, just this image of the next generation friend called Taboo. Whether the company can keep the spoilers away from this newfangled Internet age - and whether the toy will cause the same check-out chaos as it did in 1998, when online shops like Amazon were still building their brands in the UK, is up for debate. Until then, the Furby world is ready to speculate. Toy expert Peter Jenkinson of www.toyology.com said: 'The image suggests that the moving facial parts have been entirely replaced by an LCD screen. 'This will prompt lots of talk, not all of it intelligible, on Furby forums.' Other experts are predicting WiFi connectivity, allowing Furbys to livestream children's video content and interact with other friends' Furbys online. The original, which sold 40million in three years, is a collector's item. When it first went on sale for around £24 in 1998, it was in such short supply that it could be resold for as much as three times that. The Furby's appeal was attributed to its ability to learn English. It started off speaking a form of gibberish, called Furbish, which could be deciphered with the help of a dictionary that came with it. Flashback: A sales clerk holds a Furby toy as shoppers wait in line at 6am in the morning to get one of the last Furbys . More from 98: Furbys almost wiped out every other toy from the shelves - and perhaps they will do the same again this Christmas . But over time, the Furby could be trained to start replacing key phrases with English, making it an adorable part of the family - for the children at least. Other interactive features were induced by patting its back, which made it purr. You fed it by sticking your finger in its mouth which produced an endearing: 'Yuuuuummm!' | First image of next-generation Furby released .
Can Furby tackle Amazon's bestseller list in the same way he tackled the bricks-and-mortar world of 1998? |
166,266 | 62fcc0e36778b43ce56bb4ea0d5e0135a3f65d97 | (CNN) -- Every year, a combination of power, performance and perfection brings over 200,000 motorsport devotees to an English country estate for the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Motorsport fans have long regarded Formula One as the pinnacle of all racing cars and F1 car designers have responded by pushing the boundaries of speed since the Championship started in 1950. In the 1970s, Renault's designers pioneered the turbo engine for use in F1. The visceral acceleration of the turbo cars was well known, the speed intoxicating for both the drivers and the fans but it was not widely well received by some in the industry. Four-time world champion Alain Prost began his Formula One career at the start of the turbo-engine era, and says it was something of a laughing stock when Renault unveiled its RS01. "When Renault introduced the first turbo engine everybody was laughing -- especially in England," Prost told CNN. "The turbo engine was very different to other engines. You had more power -- more top-end power. But the weight of the car was much bigger," explained Prost. "We were learning all the time. The team was getting more and more experienced and being very curious, working very close with the engineers, I really loved it." Turbo technology was slow to take off, but once it did, it paved the way for an exciting new era in F1 racing. It wasn't until 1979 -- two years after its launch -- that Renault's turbo-charged car finally won the French Grand Prix, driven by Jean-Pierre Jabouille. "As much as I loved experimenting with the new design, it was a very frustrating time too," said Prost. "We very often blew up the turbo, blew up the engine, but it was part of the time and I think everyone has accepted it. However their domination in the sport was relatively short-lived following safety concerns. After a raft of restrictions, the Formula One governing body, FIA, eventually banned turbo-equipped engines in 1988. It seems though that Renault will have the last laugh as from next year, all F1 cars will be required to have turbo engines. Some are saying that it involves the biggest rule change in the sport's history. Gone will be the current 2.4-litre normally aspirated V8s, which have been in service since the start of 2006, and in their place will be 1.6-litre turbo V6s. Each engine will also be limited to 100 kilograms of fuel per hour, putting an emphasis on performance combined with greater fuel economy. Renault's new turbo engine, dubbed "Energy F1-2014," may have evolved since the early days of turbo technology, but it still owes a debt to the engineers who revolutionized racing with the world's fastest "teapot." Editor's note: An earlier version of this article contained a number of inaccuracies, for which we apologise. Christina Macfarlane and Rachel Wood, who prepared the television story, were in no way responsible for those inaccuracies. You can watch their report at the top of this article. | When Renault unveiled its first F1 turbo-charged car in 1977, became a laughing stock .
Nicknamed 'yellow teapot' due to bright color and cloud of steam .
Throughout 1980s turbo engines dominated F1, later banned due to safety concerns .
Now turbo engine set to make a comeback, with F1 ruling all cars must convert in 2014 . |
147,744 | 4b0c99848c04fa08bd16cb5d938ba5f89b55b8ba | PUBLISHED: . 06:28 EST, 27 March 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 06:29 EST, 27 March 2012 . Friends of a Taiwanese woman pleaded with her not to kill herself as she chatted to them live on Facebook, giving them a running commentary of her own suicide. But not one of them alerted the authorities as Claire Lin, 31, told them she was inhaling poisonous fumes. Police in Taipei said her final Facebook entries show her chatting with nine friends, describing her gradual asphyxiation. Chilling: Claire Lin, 31, used Facebook to chat to nine friends as she inhaled poisonous fumes . One picture posted from her mobile phone shows a charcoal barbecue burning next to two stuffed animals. Another shows the room filled with fumes. Police officer Hsieh Ku-ming said today that Miss Lin took her own life on her birthday, March 18. Family members reported the suicide soon after her death but were unaware of the online conversations that accompanied it. One friend, identified as Chung Hsin, told Miss Lin: 'Be calm, open the window, put out the charcoal fire, please, I beg you.' She replied: 'The fumes are suffocating. They fill my eyes with tears. Don't write me anymore.' Her last words, written in Chinese, were: 'Too late. My room is filled with fumes. I just posted another picture. Even while I'm dying, I still want FB [Facebook]. Must be FB poison. Haha.' Miss Lin's chilling messages indicated she was unhappy because her boyfriend was ignoring her, and had failed to return home to be with her on her birthday. He found her body the following morning and alerted her family. Mr Hsieh said he regretted that none of Miss Lin's friends called the police for help during the 67-minute episode. But he added: 'It could be true that it would be hard to track down a Facebook friend without her address or phone contact.' Chai Ben-rei, a sociologist at Taiwan's Feng Chia University, said the incident reflected social isolation in the internet age. 'People may have doubts about what they see on the internet because of its virtual nature, and fail to take action on it,' he said. | Claire Lin, 31, gave a running commentary to nine friends - but not one of them alerted the emergency services .
Police in Taipei say she was upset after her boyfriend failed to return home on her birthday . |
49,754 | 8ca700a05d47666100b0a465bc4e28e78fd54d94 | (CNN) -- Three Americans rescued last week from captivity in the Colombian jungle left a medical center for their homes Saturday, hoping for some time out of the spotlight as they reconnect with loved ones. Left to right, Thomas Howes, Keith Stansell and Marc Gonsalves address reporters before flying home Saturday. Keith Stansell, Marc Gonsalves and Thomas Howes -- hostages of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia for more than five years -- left the Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas. "There's family members that are waiting for us, and just imagine if you hadn't seen your family in 5½ years," Stansell said, asking the media to allow the former captives some space. "Let us go home and be family men again." "We're going to come out and we're going to talk, but right now, what we want to do is rest," Gonsalves said. All three were headed home to Florida, and Stansell and Howes flashed their new Florida driver's licenses before they boarded a plane. The three men had been undergoing a reintegration process at the medical center. FARC had held the three U.S. government contractors since February 2003 after their plane went down in a remote region of the South American country. They and former Colombian presidential candidate Ingrid Betancourt were among 15 hostages rescued on July 2 in a Colombian military operation. The three Americans arrived at Brooke Army Medical Center later that day. The three Americans urged the media not to forget the hundreds of other hostages still held by FARC. "Don't forget the people that are still there," Stansell said. "There are fellow hostages that are still there. Some have 10 years [as a hostage]," he said. "Right this minute, they're in chains, looking for food, and they're on the run. And their families haven't seen them in 10 years." It is estimated that FARC holds some 750 hostages. The leftist rebel group took up arms in 1964 and grew from a rag-tag band of 48 fighters to a self-styled "people's army" of more than 21,000 combatants in 2001, according to Colombian government figures. The government now estimates the FARC fighting force has dwindled to around 8,000 after a wave of desertions. On Saturday, the rescued Americans talked of looking forward to spending time with their relatives. "We're going to go home now. We're going to rest, we're going to unwind for about a month and a half," Gonsalves said. | Ex-FARC hostages leave Texas medical center 10 days after rescue .
Freed men ask for privacy, saying they want to spend time with relatives .
Men ask media to not forget about hostages who still held in Colombia . |
205,955 | 969bb95f08296406d24ca6d1a0995ebd656a3c0e | (CNN) -- Barry Manilow told CNN's Piers Morgan that when he first got into show business, he had "no eyes to be a performer. I had no ambition to be on the stage singing, singing and dancing around the stage." Manilow, who has sold over 80 million records worldwide, had 35 consecutive Top 40 hits and five albums simultaneously on the charts, is the guest on Thursday's "Piers Morgan Tonight." The show was taped before a rare in-studio audience, and the renowned singer-songwriter played the piano and sang some of his hits. "When I got up there to promote my first album," said Manilow, "I really didn't know what to do with my legs. I was able to get up from the piano, and then I really didn't know what else to do, because I had never, ever thought about standing up on a stage and entertaining. And, I thought I was dreadful. But the audiences didn't. And I think they were able to connect with a guy who was telling the truth." Manilow recalled that his first real shot at the spotlight was given to him by Bette Midler in the early 1970s. "I was her conductor and arranger," said Manilow. "And I had an album out. And she allowed me to do a couple of songs." During the 1960s and 1970s, Manilow worked as a commercial jingle writer. He composed the songs for State Farm Insurance ("And like a good neighbor, State Farm is there... "), Band-Aid ("I am stuck on Band-Aid, 'cause Band-Aid's stick on me!") and McDonald's ("You deserve a break today") among others. Manilow pointed out that the State Farm and Band-Aid jingles still air to this day. The Brooklyn-born-and-raised Manilow recalled that on the day he was presented with his first $1 million check, which he calls "The 'Mandy' check," he had actually bounced a check he'd written out to AT&T that same morning. "Mandy," which was recorded in 1974, was Manilow's first No. 1 hit. "I used it as a bookmark," said Manilow. "I mean, that's where I was at, you know. I didn't take money seriously. I was never doing it for the money." Manilow also recounted the lashing he got from critics who bashed "Mandy," despite the song's success on the charts. "I've got my feelings on my sleeve," said Manilow. "I've made a career out of it, you know? This is who I am, this is what I feel and I think that was one of the reasons I had such trouble with the critics. They didn't like to see that from a guy. They'd much rather see a guy being angry on the stage." Manilow's first album of original songs in more than a decade, "15 Minutes," is out. The singer-songwriter has been the resident headliner at The Paris Hotel in Las Vegas for two years; prior to that he headlined at the Las Vegas Hilton for five years. Now in his seventh year in Vegas, Manilow may soon beat Elvis Presley's record of Las Vegas longevity. The album name is a nod to the expression coined by artist Andy Warhol in 1968: "In the future, everyone will be world-famous for 15 minutes." Manilow, who has been world-famous for nearly 40 years, told Morgan that the rewards of fame depend on how it is handled. Manilow said that he fears for people who become famous on shows such as "American Idol" and "X Factor" without having paid their dues. "They do have talent," Manilow said. "But, you know, before you know it, they are household names. And they haven't worked in the bars that we worked in. They haven't played the bar mitzvah, they haven't gotten dressed in the men's room." However, Manilow pointed out there's a dark side to fame today and that stars often pay a price that he didn't have to pay. In particular, he referenced Britney Spears' psychological issues and troubles with paparazzi and said, "I don't know whether anybody brings that kind of thing on themselves. It seems to me that she was trying to live her life. "This didn't happen to me. Not that. They didn't follow me around wherever I was going." He said he worries about young celebrities today because "just being famous is a very dangerous thing to do if you are not grounded." Manilow also pointed out that celebrities today open their private lives to the public via Twitter, YouTube and reality shows, saying "they invite people in, you know. For me, that's one place I lock the door unless I invite you in. It's my one thing that I finally have to myself, man. Which is my life and you can't come in unless I invite you in." Morgan told Manilow that he agrees that "we know too much" about famous people's lives, and that he finds the musician more interesting because he keeps his private life private, invoking "the old mystique from celebrity." Manilow recalled coming up in "that world of Sinatra's" where "we didn't see then what we do see now. "I'm a private man, and I'm a gentleman," said Manilow. "And I'm proud of it." When Morgan asked Manilow to tell the now-famous story of how Bob Dylan publicly came to his defense, Manilow said, "He said some really great things when I was out at dinner and he gave me a real compliment. He said, 'Keep doing what you're doing, man.' And those were the years that I really needed to hear that." What's Manilow's favorite Barry Manilow song? "There's so many songs," Manilow said. "There's been 30 years of music, but 'One Voice' comes to mind." Manilow said the song remains an inspiration to him because the words and music came to him in a dream one night. He wouldn't disclose his least favorite Barry Manilow song. How did Manilow feel about being "the greatest showman of our generation" by Rolling Stone magazine? "That's really a beautiful thing to go through my life with, because I work real hard on that stage. I try to do the best work I can." Watch Piers Morgan Tonight weeknights 9 p.m. ET. For the latest from Piers Morgan click here. | Barry Manilow got his start as Bette Midler's musical conductor and arranger .
He also wrote commercial jingles early in his career, most notably State Farm and Band-Aid .
Manilow on first $1 million check: "I used it as a bookmark"
Manilow: "I'm a private man, and I'm a gentleman. And I'm proud of it." |
96,695 | 0870cee22628a5e0aa5fabedc628810e4da2fb29 | One of the main features Apple devices are missing is the option to easily increase an iPhone and iPad's built-in storage. But now a company from California has created a USB flash drive that connects to Apple's Lightning connector. It’s not the first flash drive to feature a Lightning connector, but it is the first to be approved by Apple and can be used to stream films when there's no web connection, or easily transfer files to a PC. Scroll down for video . Called iStick, the device, pictured, was created by . San Francisco firm HYPER. It’s not the first USB drive to feature a Lightning connector, but it is the first to be approved by Apple and can be used to stream films when there's no web connection, or easily transfer files to a PC . Capacity: 8GB, 16GB, 32GB, 64GB and 128GB . Connectors: Standard USB 2.0 and Apple MFi-Certified Lightning Connector . Dimensions: 51.6 x 28.6 x 9.1mm . Weight: 10g . Colours: White, black, gold and silver . Compatibility: iPhone 5, 5S and 5C, iPad (4th generation), iPad mini, iPad mini with Retina display, iPad Air, iPod touch (5th generation) Early Bird Prices (50% off retail price): $65 (£3) for 8GB, $85 (£50) for a 16GB model, $100 (£59) for 32GB, $150 (£89) for the 64GB version and $199 (£118) for 128GB. Called iStick, the device was created by San Francisco firm HYPER, which currently makes portable power packs for Apple’s Macbook, as well as other Apple accessories. Storage options range from 8GB to 64GB and Early Bird Kickstarter prices, which offer 50 per cent off the retail price, start at $65 (£38). Other prices include $85 (£50) for a 16GB model, $100 (£59) for 32GB, $150 (£89) for the 64GB version and $199 (£118) for 128GB. The drive can be used to store files, including films, music, photos and documents, and transfer these files to a computer or any device with a USB connector. At the moment, the best way to increase storage on an Apple device is to upload it to the cloud, but this is less secure than a USB drive and becomes near-on useless without a web connection. The iStick, pictured, removes the need for this connection and means users can stream films on a plane, for example . At the moment, the best way to increase storage on an Apple device is to upload it to the cloud, but this is less secure than a USB drive and becomes near-on useless without a web connection. The iStick removes the need for this connection and means users can stream films on a plane, for example. Once the Kickstarter project ends on 17 June, prices are expected to rise to $129 (£77) for 8GB, $169 (£100) for 16GB, $199 (£118) for 32GB, $299 (£177) for 64GB and $399 (£237) for 128GB. The iStick is due to be shipped by August and shipping costs outside the U.S will add an extra $10 (£6) to the price. To use iStick, owners will additionally need to download an iOS app, which will be available after the stick has launched. The iStick is due to be shipped by August. It will be available in white, black, gold and silver and will be compatible with the iPhone 5, 5S, pictured left, 5C, pictured right, the iPad (4th generation), iPad mini, iPad mini with Retina display, iPad Air, pictured centre, and iPod touch (5th generation) | The iStick was created by San Francisco accessory firm HYPER .
One end houses a Lightning connector, while the other includes a USB .
It is the first flash drive with Lighting connector to be approved by Apple .
Storage options range from 8GB to 128GB and prices start at $65 (£38)
It can be used to store files and transfer data to a PC and Mac .
Kickstarter campaign has already hit its $100,000 (£59,300) target . |
78,064 | dd48f9e6c2c76578c50a03f9b2d8a8073711f30c | (CNN) -- A Connecticut State Police dive team was searching a lake in Bristol, Connecticut, Monday for an item linked to the case of former NFL player Aaron Hernandez, who is charged with murder in Massachusetts, a law enforcement source told CNN. Hernandez, though he lives in the Boston area, is a Bristol native. The lake is about a mile from his uncle's Bristol home, which police have searched several times while investigating last month's shooting death of Odin Lloyd. Law enforcement sources declined to say what was being sought in the lake. Authorities have accused Hernandez, a 23-year-old former New England Patriots player, of orchestrating the shooting death of Lloyd, the 27-year-old boyfriend of Hernandez's fiancée's sister. The former standout NFL tight end has pleaded not guilty to murder. He is being held without opportunity for bail. Authorities have said Hernandez and two other men picked Lloyd up from his Boston apartment in the early morning of June 17. Surveillance cameras showed the car at an industrial park near Hernandez's North Attleborough, Massachusetts, home. Lloyd's body was found in the North Attleborough industrial park later that day. The Patriots released Hernandez, who had been one of their top offensive players, shortly after his arrest but before he was charged in court with murder. Authorities have said they've yet to find the gun they believe was used in the shooting: a Glock .45. The other men who were allegedly in the car with Hernandez around the time of Lloyd's death are behind bars as well. One of them, Ernest Wallace, has been charged with accessory after the fact to murder and has pleaded not guilty. The other, Carlos Ortiz, has pleaded not guilty to a weapons charge. CNN's Jason Hanna and Greg Botelho contributed to this report. | Lake is mile from Connecticut home of Hernandez's uncle .
Hernandez, a former NFL player, is charged with murder in Massachusetts .
Hernandez charged in death of man who dated the sister of Hernandez's fiancée. |
196,040 | 89b7a96241747627c3073dce7bb4112fc61ac0d8 | By . Daily Mail Reporters . and Associated Press . An ex-Ohio doctor was sentenced to 36 years in jail on Friday for the rape and involuntary manslaughter of an expectant mother forced into prostitution to support herself and two children. Former ER doctor Ali Salim, 44, pleaded guilty to administering the fatal heroin overdose of Deanna Ballman, 23. Ballman was nine months pregnant with a girl she planned to call Mabel when she died. Delaware County Judge Duncan Whitney . said in sentencing him that the crime in July 2012 was the worst he's ever seen and . that it was unthinkable that as a man of medicine, Salim allowed her to die. Guilty: Ali Salim, right, apologizes for the death of Deanna Ballman with his attorney, Sam Shamansky, left, on Friday in Delaware. Salim, an ex-doctor, was sentenced to 36 years in jail for the involuntary manslaughter and rape of the 23-year-old in 2012 . Tragic: Deanna Ballman, pictured, was nine-months pregnant and had turned to prostitution for extra cash . Behind bars: Ali Salim waits for an elevator to take him back to jail after the sentencing . Salim had faced up to 37 years in . prison. He was given nearly that with a sentence of 36 years and four . months; a few months are likely to be subtracted because of time he's . already served. When victim Ballman disappeared in July 2012, her family initially said she had answered a housekeeping ad on Craigslist. Instead, . investigators determined the 23-year-old woman had taken up . prostitution when she moved back to Ohio after a divorce and with no . financial means. The ad she . responded to: '$200 for a girl in need,' an online euphemism for . prostitution, assistant Delaware County prosecutor Kyle Rohrer said in a . court filing last week. 'That decision unknowingly but ultimately cost her and Mabel their lives,' Rohrer said. Ballman . died of a fatal heroin overdose, which investigators say Salim . administered at his house in an upscale central Ohio neighborhood. Rohrer says there is no evidence Ballman used drugs. Desperate measures: The 23-year-old was said to be in a 'difficult financial situation' after moving home to Ohio from Colorado . A mother's grief: Lori Ballman, mother of slaying victim Deanna Ballman, is sworn in before giving a victim impact testimony at the sentencing of ex-Ohio doctor Ali Salim, far right . In a court filing Thursday, Salim's . attorneys contended that Ballman injected herself with the heroin, but . Whitney rejected that, saying her character had no bearing on the crime. They acknowledged that Salim recorded himself having sex with the incapacitated woman and later moved her body. But they also said Salim met Ballman intending only to have sex, not to hurt her or her unborn child. The . defense said the court should consider Salim's previous background as a . doctor in good standing with no criminal history. They argued he . shouldn't receive the maximum sentence. Salim, . a former emergency room doctor, used Craigslist extensively to meet . sexual partners, with many references in his ads to exchanging drugs for . sex, including heroin, Rohrer said. Many . of the women were young, drug-addicted prostitutes, with several . alleging they were drugged against their will and others saying they . were sexually assaulted, Rohrer's filing said. Salim . also wrote prescriptions for hard drugs for women with whom he had . sexual relationships, and also bought heroin that he gave women who . visited his house. Salim . pleaded guilty to two counts of involuntary manslaughter in October. He . also pleaded guilty to tampering with evidence and abuse of a corpse. Happy family: Miss Ballman pictured with her two children, was about to give birth to a little girl called Mabel . He . entered a type of guilty plea to a charge of rape under which he . maintained his innocence but acknowledged prosecutors had enough . evidence to convict him. In . its filing, the defense denied the allegations that other women were . drugged and sexually assaulted. Defense attorneys also submitted . Craigslist postings and emails that they say show Ballman solicited sex . online. Salim told . investigators that Ballman was alive when she left the house and he . drove her to a nearby grocery store parking lot where he gave her . directions to get home. Salim . claims he then walked back to his house, according to Rohrer. Ballman's . body was found the next day in the back of her car on a rural road a . few miles from Salim's house. Investigators . say video evidence shows Ballman nude and unconscious on Salim's bed, . apparently suffering distress consistent with a heroin overdose, Rohrer . said. She didn't leave . the house alive, according to the court filing, which said Salim left . to get heroin in a neighboring suburb that evening while Ballman was . still in the house. Rohrer's filing notes that Salim neglected his professional duty to help Ballman. 'Without . regard for mother or child, he dumped their bodies in a remote location . as if he was taking out his trash,' the filing said. Loss: Deanna's mother Lori Ballman holds a tribute to her late daughter, at her home in Pataskala, Ohio . Whitney . has ordered video, audio and photographic evidence destroyed after . criminal and civil cases against Salim end, agreeing with prosecutors . they are obscene and depict acts that Ballman couldn't have consented . to. Salim used Craigslist . extensively to meet sexual partners, with many references in his ads to . exchanging drugs for sex, including heroin, the filing said. Many . of the women were young, drug-addicted prostitutes, with several . alleging they were drugged against their will and others saying they . were sexually assaulted, the filing said. Salim . also wrote prescriptions for hard drugs for women with whom he had . sexual relationships, and bought heroin that he gave women who visited . his house in an upscale neighborhood. A message was left for Salim's attorney, Sam Shamansky, who previously alleged Ballman was a prostitute feeding a drug habit. Ballman, 23, died of a fatal heroin overdose, but there is no evidence she was a drug user, Rohrer said. Crime scene: Ballman's body was found in her car, pictured, in a wooded area near New Albany in 2012 . | Ali Salim, 44, jailed for over three decades for the involuntary manslaughter of pregnant Deanna Ballman, 23, and her unborn baby .
Mother-of-two was found dead in her car in August 2012 after Salim gave her a lethal heroin injection, raped her, then dumped her body .
Ballman had recently left her husband and moved states .
She was about to give birth to a baby girl called Mabel when she was killed .
A prosecutor said she turned to prostitution to make ends meet .
Judge said that the crime was the worst he's ever seen and that it was unthinkable that as a man of medicine, Salim allowed the woman to die . |
247,342 | cc167697f8f0ed37fb2110b1920e234102ccf143 | By . Bianca London . Given up chocolate for lent and hoping to stick to it once Easter has passed? Well, one butcher's twist on the classic Easter egg may help you steer clear. Graham Eyes has created a bizarre range of Scotch Creme Eggs - a Cadbury’s Creme Egg wrapped in . sausage meat - or not, for those watching their waistlines - and . flavoured with a variety of seasonings. Graham, from Southport, Merseyside, has created the wacky Easter-themed snacks in a bid to entice more customers through the doors of his shop. Quirky: Graham Eyes, pictured with his son Harry, has created a Cadbury's Creme Egg, wrapped in sausage meat - or not, for those watching their waistlines - and flavoured with a variety of seasonings . The 53-year-old is renowned for his unusual concoctions and after the success of last year’s Cadbury’s Mini Egg sausages, he decided to put his thinking cap on once again. Graham, who opened his first butcher shop more than 30 years ago, said: 'So far I have had mixed reactions from people about the Scotch Creme Eggs. 'Some of my customers can’t wait to try them but other people think they just sound disgusting. 'Personally I think they are really tasty, I really like them - they’ve got a really interesting taste. 'You’ve got the sweetness from the chocolate, contrasting with the chilli and lime that we use in the coating - but the flavours go really well together.' Tasty treat? The creative butcher has created the wacky Easter-themed snacks in a bid to entice more customers through the doors of his shop . The sweet treats are sold ready to be cooked at home and can be cooked in the oven or deep fat fryer. Graham has even dreamed up four different variations of the strange snack to make sure that there is something for everyone. The first is a Scotch Creme Egg coated in breadcrumbs, and for the slimmers there is an offering without any breadcrumbs. For the more adventurous eaters, there is a Scotch Creme Egg coated in sweet chilli. And finally Graham has created one using his special ‘wonder sausage’ mix with a crushed creme egg inside. Joker: Graham has even dreamed up four different variations of the strange snack, including chill and lime, to make sure that there is something for everyone . Bizarre: Graham and his team try to do something unusual for every special occasion - they've already got something in the pipeline for Wimbledon and for St George's Day . He added: 'We always like to do something a bit funky to get people talking. I just wanted to do something to keep the customers coming into the shop by offering them something they can’t pick up in the supermarkets. 'And last year we had a lot of success with the Easter egg sausages, especially with children. 'So we had a think about what we could do this Easter and came up with the idea of the Scotch Creme Egg. 'We try to do something unusual for every special occasion, and we’ve already got something in the pipeline for Wimbledon and for St George’s Day.' The innovative butcher has even offered his loyal customers the chance to name the one of a kind invention. Fulfilling the customer's needs: Graham said he wanted to do something to keep the customers coming into the shop by offering them something they can't pick up in the supermarkets . Long-standing: Graham, who opened his first butcher shop more than 30 years ago, said: 'So far I have had mixed reactions from people about the Scotch Creme Eggs' 1. Pre-heat your oven to 190 C / 375 F / Gas Mark 5. Unwrap one 34g Cadbury’s Creme Egg.2. Take two 60g pork sausages and remove the outer casing, before mixing together.3. Encase the Cadbury’s Creme Egg inside the sausage meat.4. Rub the encased egg in a blend of finely chopped chilli (deseed if necessary to reduce heat) and lime juice.5. De-crust two slices of white bread and place in a blender. Blitz for 30 seconds or until it becomes a fine texture.6. Rub the encased egg in the breadcrumbs and place on a baking tray.7. Cook for 35 minutes.8. Lightly dust chocolate powder to finish. Serve with whipped cream or custard. | Graham Eyes created wacky treat .
Cadbury’s Creme Egg wrapped in .
sausage meat - or not, for those watching their waistlines .
Flavoured with variety of seasonings .
Hopes it will entice customer's to his butchers .
Last year, created Cadbury’s Mini Egg sausages . |
180,522 | 75b37c50d1ebfda075f9bfb7f2e8e2b403623300 | Dedicated; Steven Sotloff pictured on assignment in Libya in 2013 . Executed . Steven Sotloff held joint US-Israeli citizenship but managed to hide . his faith from his ISIS captors claims a fellow captive of the . journalist who is now free. The . 31-year-old kept his Judaism and his dual nationality secret from his . ISIS kidnappers for the entire year he spent in captivity before his . death and even managed to fast for Yom Kippur by feigning an illness. The lengths that Sotloff went to as he practiced his faith were revealed after ISIS released grisly footage of Sotloff's beheading on Tuesday, two weeks to the day reporter James Foley was murdered in the same way by the terror group. The . Israeli media was aware that Sotloff had moved to Jerualem in 2008 and agreed . to keep hidden his links to the country in case ISIS dished out brutal . treatment to their prisoner who was kidnapped while working in Syria in . August 2013. 'We . refused to acknowledge any relationship with him in case it was . dangerous for him,' said Avi Hoffman, editor of the Jerusalem Report . The . acknowledgement that Sotloff's religion and Israeli citizenship was kept . secret explains the huge gaps in his public biography that until yesterday went blank . between 2005 and just before his capture as a freelancer. During . his captivity, Sotloff, who was devout, would use his Muslim captors . who were praying towards Mecca to gauge where Jerusalem was for his . daily worship the unidentified fellow captive told the Report. Sotloff also managed to fast on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calender, which occurred in September of 2013. 'He told them he was sick and didn't want to eat,' his friend said. Scroll Down for Video . Grieving: Murdered American journalist Steven Sotloff's mother, Shirley Sotloff returns to her home in Miami on Wednesday . Sotloff, who was born in Miami, arrived in Israel in 2008 to . become an undergraduate of the Interdisciplinary Center in Herzliya. according to the Times of Israel. From . there he went to freelance at the Jerusalem Post and the the Jerusalem . Report and from there moved onto Foreign Policy and Time. His editor at the Jerusalem Report in 2011-12, Illene Prusher, called him fearless. 'He was an excellent journalist, and he filed great work,' she said to the Times of Israel. 'He . was our only guy who was filing from the region, and he was filing for a . bunch of different places… In addition to covering Libya, he was . covering Arab uprisings. 'I . felt like he really cared about it, he thought it was extremely . important. He was very conscientious, enterprising and brave.' As a freelancer, Sotloff traveled the Arab world and eventually arrived in Syria in August, 2013. The Times of Israel said that they knew he was Jewish, but kept it secret in case his kidnappers found out. Sotloff wrote reports from Bahrain, Egypt, Libya, Turkey and Syria. The . Jewish journalist - who held joint American and Israeli citizenship - . spoke fluent Arabic and had a showed a deep love for the Islamic world . before he was captured by ISIS militants in Syria in 2013. He was . executed by them on Tuesday. Sotloff, 31, grew up Miami with his mother Shirley (pictured) - whose parents were both Holocaust survivors - and father Art . Arthur Sotloff, father of slain journalist Steven Sotloff, leaves their family home in Pinecrest, Florida, on Tuesday . Pinecrest police officers are positioned at the Sotloff family home following Steven Sotloff's execution in Syria . Police officers are pictured outside the house, where family and friends are mourning the death of Mr Sotloff . Sotloff, . 31, grew up in Miami with his mother Shirley - whose parents were both . Holocaust survivors - and father Art before attending the Kimball Union . Academy boarding school in New Hampshire from which he graduated in 2002 . He then studied at the University of Central Florida. On Wednesday, Sotloff's mother left her Miami home without making any comment. Shirley Sotloff briefly waved to the media outside her home in south Miami before getting into a friend's car and driven away. The Sotloff's had received a steady stream of visitors to their home with some carrying flowers and others baskets of food. Police have kept guard out die the home with up two patrol cars parked in the driveway. University . of Central Florida President John C. Hitt said on learning of his . death: 'Our UCF family mourns Steven’s death, and we join millions of . people around the world who are outraged at this despicable and . unjustifiable act.' While . at Kimball, Sotloff was an avid rugby player and on moving to UFC began . working for the student newspaper the Central Florida Future. He left the paper in 2005 and began to pursue his dreams of journalism full time. 'The . guy lit up a room. He was always such a loyal, caring and good friend . to us,' said Josh Polsky to the New York Times. Polsky had shared a . dormitory suite with Sotloff. Respected: . During his time in the Middle East, Sotloff, 31, was published in TIME, . World Affairs, National Interest and the Christian Science Monitor . 'If you needed to rely on anybody for anything he would drop everything on a dime for you or for anyone else.' After his death on Tuesday, his friends across the world were devastated. 'A . million people could have told him what he was doing was foolish, it . seemed like it to us outsiders looking in, but to him it was what he . loved to do and you weren’t going to stop him,' said his friend, Emerson . Lotzia. 'Steve said it was scary over there. It was dangerous. It wasn’t safe to be over there. He knew it. He kept going back.' Lotzia, . now a Florida sports reporter, tweeted his horror after his friend’s . execution: ‘Devastated and crushed. Steve was an amazing friend. Lucky . to have him in my life. Heart is heavy for his family. Please keep them . in your thoughts and prayers.’ Sotloff . wrote about the lawlessness in Libya after the fall of Colonel Gaddafi, . and criticized the attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi wrote the . New York Times. Mr Sotloff was the grandson of two Holocaust survivors. Above, a police car is parked outside his family home . With . no security organizations to ensure order and an ineffective justice . system unable to prosecute suspects, Libyans fear their country is . slowly crumbling around them.' During . his time in the Middle East, Sotloff was published in TIME, World . Affairs, National Interest, World Affairs Journal and the Christian . Science Monitor. Sotloff . 'is known to us as an honest and thoughtful journalist who strives to . understand the story from local perspectives and report his findings . straightforwardly,' World Affairs said last month. Foreign . Policy editor David Kenner said he would remember Sotloff 'as a brave . and talented reporter' while colleague Tom Coghlan recalled him as 'a . really good writer and humane journalist'. An . avid user of social media, he sent out his last tweet on August 3 last . year about his hometown basketball team the Miami Heat. He is believed . to have been kidnapped by Isis the following day. According to his Twitter account, he was based in Benghazi, Libya, at the time. In . a tweet from June last year he wrote: 'Is it bad that I want to focus . on #syria, but all I can think of is a #HEATFinals repeat?' A friend puts a consoling arm around Steven Sotloff's father Art on the day that he found out his son had been brutally executed by ISIS militants in Syria . 'Steven . embodies what it takes to report from combat zones,' said Bill Roggio, . managing editor of the Long War Journal, a news website for which . Sotloff wrote in 2011 from Cairo. 'He . has that courage and little bit of craziness that you need to take . risks to observe and understand a story in dangerous places.' Speaking to The Miami Herald before the apparent beheading, she insisted that Sotloff was 'no war junkie'. He was, she said 'committed to the Arab Spring and very respectful of Islamic culture'. Sotloff's family had previously been advised not to go public with news of his disappearance. But a family friend wrote about Sotloff last December, saying he had gone missing on August 4 and to pray for his return. 'Steve . Sotloff lived in Yemen for years, spoke good Arabic, deeply loved the . Islamic world.. for this he is threatened with beheading,' friend Anne . Marloe tweeted after the release of the first video. | Steven Sotloff's dual nationality kept secret during his year-long captivity .
Israeli media did not mention Sotloff lived in the country since 2008 .
Kept Judaism secret from captors by feigning illness when he had to fast .
Studied in Jerusalem and worked for two Israeli newspapers before his kidnapping in August 2013 . |
27,589 | 4e30a289fac01343b33ab3f65cc17cab471eafa0 | (CNN) -- A disputed maritime border. Long-standing tensions. And Tuesday, a sharp escalation of hostilities. North and South Korea fired at each other for about an hour on an island that sits off a disputed border. The deadly skirmish raised fears of war between the two rival nations, once again spiking tension in the entire region. How did the latest hostilities begin? South Korea said North Korea fired artillery Tuesday toward the border between the two nations. Two South Korean marines were killed and 18 soldiers and civilians were wounded. South Korea had been conducting maritime military drills, which the North called "war maneuvers." The North accused the South of "reckless military provocation" for firing dozens of shells inside North Korean territory around the South Korean island of Yeonpyeong. Plumes of smoke billowed from the island of 1,300 people but it was not immediately clear how much damage was incurred. Many residents were fleeing to the South Korean port of Incheon. Why did this happen? Tension has been running particularly high in the Korean peninsula after the March 26 sinking of the South Korean warship Cheonan. Tuesday's incident, however, is one of the most serious that has occurred in recent years. The hostilities come as North Korea is undergoing transition -- the ailing and reclusive leader Kim Jong Il is believed to be in the process of transferring power to his son Kim Jong Un. Some analysts believe upcoming internal changes have prompted North Korea to flex its military muscle in recent days. Tuesday's violence was also preceded by the revelation of a North Korean uranium enrichment program. Has this happened before? Yes, Yeonpyeong Island has come under attack before. Last January, South Korea reported that the North had fired shells that fell in waters north of the Northern Limit Line, the de facto inter-Korean maritime border. North Korea wants that border redrawn farther south. Over the past six decades, small-scale skirmishes have flared repeatedly along both land and sea borders as each state aims to reunify the peninsula according to its own terms and system of government. Deadly naval clashes occurred along the demarcation line in 1999, 2002 and 2009. What is the history of conflict? After Japan's defeat in World War II, Korea became a divided nation, the capitalist South supported by the United States and its Western allies and the communist North an ally of the Soviet Union. Cold War tensions erupted into war 1950, devastating the peninsula and taking the lives of as many as 2 million people. The fighting ended with a truce, not a treaty, and settled little. Technically, the two Koreas are still at war. Besides the border skirmishes, other incidents also have proved provocative. In 1968, North Korea dispatched commandos in an unsuccessful attempt to assassinate South Korea's president. In 1983, a bombing linked to Pyongyang killed 17 high-level South Korean officials on a visit to Myanmar. In 1987, the North was accused of bombing a South Korean airliner. What happened with the Cheonan? South Korea said a North Korean torpedo last March sent the warship Cheonan to the bottom of the Yellow Sea off the Seoul-controlled island of Baengnyeong. The sinking, also in the border area, killed 46 South Korean sailors. South Korea was outraged by the incident. North Korea vehemently denied any responsibility, even after an international investigating team blamed North Korea. The United Nations Security Council statement condemned the attack but stopped short of placing blame on the North. Will the two nations go to war? South Korea put its military on high alert following Tuesday's exchange of fire. But whether that will translate into further military action is impossible to predict. Events in the past few months suggested a slight thawing of icy relations. North and South Korea had begun discussions on the possible resumption of reunions of family members separated by the Korean War, and North Korea has requested military talks. In early September, the South offered food aid to the impoverished North for the first time in three years. Given the closed nature of North Korean politics, it's hard to tell what changes the new leadership of Kim Jong Un will entail or whether re-engagement is on the table. Another wild card is the influence of China; some South Koreans fear a Chinese takeover in the event of a North Korean collapse. Some analysts viewed Tuesday's exchange as North Korea flexing its military muscle in the light of its leadership transition. Others said it was related to the nuclear issue. How will nuclear talks be affected? Washington accuses Pyongyang of running a secret uranium-based nuclear program. The United States, along with the two Koreas, Russia, Japan and China, have been involved in what is called the Six Party Talks. But those talks have been slow, arduous and in limbo since 2008. And after the revelation of the North Korean uranium enrichment facility a few days ago, the resumption of talks seemed to be in jeopardy. Stephen Bosworth, the U.S. special envoy on North Korean denuclearization, said Tuesday's hostilities will prove a further obstacle. Choi Jin-wook, senior researcher at the Korea Institute of National Unification, said the North is "frustrated with Washington's response to their uranium program, and they think that Washington has almost given up on negotiations with North Korea." "I think they realize they can't expect anything from Washington or Seoul for several months, so I think they made the provocation," Choi said. Journalist Andrew Salmon contributed to this report. | Tension has been high since the sinking of the South Korean warship Cheonan .
A changing situation inside North Korea and the nuclear issue may also be factors, analysts say .
Yeonpyeong Island also was at the center of a skirmish in January . |
276,302 | f1fc2c01b6d5966967591f6072cad7fc9323ed69 | Gov. Andrew Cuomo beefed up New York's gun-control laws on Tuesday by signing into law a new package of firearm and mental health regulations that mark the nation's first since last month's massacre in Newtown, Connecticut. Cuomo, a self-described gun owner, said the December 14 tragedy spurred lawmakers to action and called it a "common sense" measure before enacting what are widely seen as America's toughest gun laws. "You can overpower the extremists with intelligence and common sense," he said before inking the deal in Albany. The laws fortify New York's existing assault weapons ban, limit the number of bullets allowed in magazines and strengthen rules that govern the mentally ill, which includes a requirement to report potentially harmful behavior. Oregon sheriff: 'Unconstitutional' gun control laws won't be enforced . Both the GOP-controlled Senate and Democrat-dominated Assembly approved the measure by overwhelming margins just one week after Cuomo spelled out the proposals in his annual State of the State address. The first-term Democratic governor had called for a tightening of the assault weapons ban, background checks for people who purchase guns privately and more restrictions on high-capacity magazines. But the new measures drew ire from the nation's largest gun lobby over the speed with which the bill was passed in the new legislative session. The National Rifle Association accused Cuomo and other state lawmakers of orchestrating "a secretive end-run around the legislative and democratic process." After two days of voting in the state Legislature, Cuomo signed the deal around 5 p.m. before telling reporters that speed had been essential so as not to create a rush on the gun market. "There has been all sorts of reports that even the contemplation of this law caused an increase in (gun) sales," he said. "That would have been the exact opposite of what we were trying to achieve." Related: Details of Obama's proposals . The new laws include a statewide gun registry and a uniform licensing standard, altering the current system in which each county or municipality sets its own standard. Residents are now restricted to purchasing ammunition magazines that carry seven bullets, rather than 10. Related: NRA's shooting video prompts outrage . It remains unclear what effect the measures will have on New York's already stringent approach to gun control. "The changes in New York are largely cosmetic," said CNN legal analyst Paul Callan, who described existing regulations as "the toughest gun laws in the United States." "The one change that arguably will have the greatest impact is the amendment to Kendra's Law, which will permit closer monitoring of the mentally ill." That 1999 law grants New York judges the authority to require residents to undergo psychiatric treatment if they meet certain criteria. Related: Gun control support rises but divide remains over what to do . The new measures will extend Kendra's Law through 2017, expand outpatient treatment from six months to a year and require reviews before such treatment is allowed to expire. New York's mental health professionals will be governed by a new and controversial set of rules that require them to report their patients to the state should those patients exhibit behavior suggesting that they could be harmful to themselves or others. "We're opening up an unprecedented window into what goes on in the therapy room," said Dr. Paul S. Appelbaum, director of the Division of Law, Ethics, and Psychiatry at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. "It would effect a major change in the usual presumptions of confidentiality." The bill creates mandatory life sentences for anyone who murders certain first responders, a provision that comes after two firefighters were killed in an ambush as they battled a blaze in upstate New York. The vote coincides with a series of recommendations put together by Vice President Joe Biden meant to address the nation's gun violence. Lawmakers in at least 10 other states are reviewing some form of new gun regulations in the new year. | NRA decries speed of bill .
Gov. Andrew Cuomo signs gun-control bill into law .
Law limits ammunition magazines to seven bullets, down from 10 .
Measure includes a statewide gun registry, uniform licensing standard . |
34,130 | 60fa216e4c0bbd9b6eac943c0eb8be73639506ff | (CNN)After days of anti-government protests in Haiti, the country's prime minister is resigning. Laurent Lamothe announced his resignation Saturday night, the country's Ministry of Communications said on Twitter. "I leave the position of prime minister this evening with a feeling of accomplishment," Lamothe said in a televised speech. The resignation comes after violent anti-government protests calling for elections and for both Lamothe and President Michel Martelly to step down. The United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti denounced the violence in the nation's capital, Port-au-Prince, and also said it is investigating a report of excessive use of force. Haiti has been mired in extreme poverty and instability for years. It is still grappling with the aftermath of a catastrophic 2010 earthquake that killed more than 230,000. In 2011, the year Martelly was elected, the President gave a sobering account of Haitian politics: . "We are ruled by corruption," he said at the time. "The people have no confidence in their government." CNN's Moni Basu contributed to this report. | Laurent Lamothe says he is stepping down as prime minister .
Protesters have called for the resignations of Lamothe and President Michel Martelly .
Haiti has been mired in extreme poverty and instability for years . |
77,253 | db0b17870a2cc5bec64b307e953499ce861f6f54 | By . Kieran Gill . Follow @@kie1410 . Aaron Ramsey is eager to 'get better and better' and thinks he gave his critics a taste of what he is all about last season. The Arsenal midfielder is off the back of his best season yet, having scored 16 goals last year despite being sidelined for three months with a thigh injury. One of those goals was the extra-time winner in the FA Cup final over Hull City, which ended Arsene Wenger's nine-year wait for a trophy, and the 23-year-old was glad to prove the doubters wrong. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Theo Walcott lifting weights ready for Arsenal's pre-season . All smiles: Arsene Wenger and Aaron Ramsey laugh but it will be all systems go when the season starts . Training: Ramsey is off the back of his best season yet, having scored 16 goals, including the FA Cup winner . BORN: Wales, December 26 1990 (age 23) 2006-2008: Cardiff (16 apps, 1 gl) 2010-2011: Nottingham Forest (loan) (5, 0) 2011-2011: Cardiff (loan) (6, 1) 2008-NOW: Arsenal (127, 17) 2008-NOW: Wales (30, 8) 'I've . been through a lot in my short career so far,' Ramsey told the club's . official website. 'I've had a bit of everything so it was nice to have a . good season, score the number of goals that I did and be recognised a . lot more. 'I've always believed in myself and what I can do, . and I think a lot of people realised that last year and that's what I'm . more happy about.' Wenger and his team appeared in good spirits as they were put through their paces on Wednesday. The French boss, having captured the Chilean forward Alexis Sanchez from Barcelona for £30million last week, took to Arsenal's training base at London Colney. And Ramsey says it can set the wheels in motion for a good season. 'It's always important to get a good pre-season in you,' added Ramsey. 'I want to keep on working on my game. 'Hopefully . I can keep improving and get better and better. That's my target now - . just to improve on my game and keep on building every season.' Leading the line: Carl Jenkinson, Ramsey, Mathieu Flamini and Tomas Rosicky enjoy a gentle jog . On the ball: Abou Diaby will be hoping for an injury-free campaign, and (right) Flamini and Rosicky shake hands . Raring to go: Kieran Gibbs jostles for the ball with Flamini. The new Premier League season kicks off in August . | Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey scored 16 goals last year - his best yet .
Ramsey bagged extra-time winner in FA Cup final over Hull City last year .
Welshman vows to 'keep improving and get better and better' |
130,575 | 34ddd49c0da4affe931e3e8dc23377d7fbaffb43 | Little Rock, Arkansas (CNN) -- Former President Bill Clinton suggested on Saturday that the fall in Hispanic turnout for Democrats in 2014 was partly due to President Barack Obama's decision to not issue an executive order on immigration. At a Politico event with Mike Allen in Little Rock, Clinton and his former aides reminisced about the past but with a clear eye on how their decisions in the 1990s could be implemented in the future. Clinton also handicapped the disastrous midterms for Democrats. "There was a collapse of the youth vote, the African-American vote held fairly steady," Clinton said. "We had a little bit of a loss of the Hispanic vote, perhaps because the President didn't issue the immigration order. But it was a tough call for him because had he done so, a lot of others would have lost by even more. It was a difficult call." Latinos made up 10% of the electorate in 2012, according to CNN's exit polls. In 2014, that number was 8%. In September, Obama decided to postpone issuing an executive action on immigration until after November's elections because it would be "more sustainable" then. Clinton said the biggest problem for Democrats -- who lost their majority in the Senate and fell deeper into the minority in the House -- was that "the people who were against us felt more strongly than the people for us." The former president also suggested that a national advertising campaign -- that Democrats "didn't have" -- on an economic message and other issues could have "made all the difference in a couple of close races." Clinton's recollections came during a celebration around the 10th anniversary of the Clinton Presidential Center. A steady stream of former campaign and administration aides were in town for a weekend that has seemed part reunion, part party and part pep rally for the future. For the Clinton confidants in Little Rock this weekend, that future, while not expressly addressed, is Hillary Clinton's all-but-certain presidential run in 2016. Hillary Clinton spoke earlier in the day at an event for the Clinton Foundation's "No Ceilings" initiative. Unlike other events during the week that looked back at the Clinton administration, the former first lady's event was forward looking on how to increase women's participation in the workforce. At the Politico event, Bill Clinton looked to the future while talking about the past by arguing that his administration "showed the importance of policy." "We can do this again," he said to a room full of Hillary Clinton fans. | Bill Clinton suggests that Barack Obama's decision to hold off on immigration reform hurt Democrats with Hispanic voters .
Fall in Hispanic turnout came "perhaps because the President didn't issue the immigration order"
"The people who were against us felt more strongly than the people for us," Clinton says .
His remarks come at a weekend retrospective on his administration . |
285,085 | fd681b41264fc01d7556ea9a913d5ff8ef330823 | (CNN) -- Either Mitt Romney got really popular last weekend, or something funky was going on with his Twitter feed. The Republican presidential nominee's account on the site, which had been gaining followers at a clip of about 3,000 to 4,000 a day, appears to have gained more than 116,000 followers Friday and another 24,000 on Saturday. That's according to Twitter Counter, an online tool that charts the number of followers that Twitter accounts have over time. Other tools show slightly different numbers and space the gains out differently over a three-day period. The spike was noticed by Zach Green, who runs 140elect.com, which monitors social-media activity in politics. He charted the growth as 23,926 new followers on Friday, 93,054 on Saturday and 25,432 more on Sunday. With political campaigns increasingly using social media as a tool to communicate with supporters, a strong presence on sites like Facebook and Twitter is regarded as a measure of relevance. As such, some politicians have been accused of using tricks to artificially inflate their online presence. For example, Romney's opponent in the primaries, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, was dinged by a report that as few as 8% of his 1.3 million Twitter followers were real. The rest were drummed up by a program that creates fake accounts to swell someone's follower ranks, the report said. (The campaign denied it.) Romney had about 807,000 followers Tuesday morning, up from about 670,000 four days ago. The Romney campaign says it had nothing to do with the spike in the former Massachusetts governor's follower list. "We have reached out to Twitter to find out additional information regarding the rapid growth," campaign spokesman Zac Moffat told BuzzFeed. The campaign did not immediately respond to CNN's message seeking comment for this story. Green told Mashable, a CNN content partner, that someone else may have added fake followers in an effort to embarrass the Romney campaign. He said the new followers don't appear to come from any legitimate increase in popularity. Green's analytics didn't show any increase in Twitter mentions, retweets or other signs that typically would accompany organic growth on the site, he said. Several online services offer clients the chance to "buy" Twitter followers, although their sites are vague about where the followers come from or how they are acquired. One such service, BuyTwitterFollow, promises to supply 25,000 new followers for a fee of $225. Even with the bump, Romney remains far behind President Barack Obama on Twitter. Obama has about 17.8 million Twitter followers -- and, it should be noted, the built-in advantage of having been president of the United States for the past 3½ years. | Mitt Romney sees a large increase in the number of his followers on Twitter .
The Republican's account gained more than 140,000 followers in just two days .
The campaign denies gaming the numbers, which some say appear artificial .
Analyst says spike could have been faked to embarrass Romney . |
116,683 | 22a4e7db9ed3e610b8d2781200375792b19c075d | It really is puppy love in one household! Tara Rodabaugh from Polk County, Florida, couldn't believe it when her Boxer, Roxy, gave birth to 14 puppies on Wednesday. The dog was one shy of breaking the world record, with the largest litter for her breed. Scroll down for video . Happy family: Tara Rodabaugh from Polk County, Florida, couldn't believe it when her Boxer Roxy gave birth to 14 puppies this week . New mom: The dog was one shy of breaking the world record with the largest litter for her breed . Exhausting: It was a lengthy birth for the pup and she was in labor for 12 hours . It was a lengthy birth for the pup and she was in labor for 12 hours. Ms Rodabaugh said she was 'shocked' when the puppies kept coming. 'We thought she was done at eight,' she told Fox News. Dinner time: A video released shows new mother Roxy feeding her babies at home . Bonding: As they nestle around her, she affectionately gives them a lick . Moving on: In a few weeks, the puppies will be looking for homes . Indeed, according to the website purebredpups.org, the average litter size for Boxers is six. A video released shows new mother Roxy feeding her babies at home. As they nestle around her, she affectionately gives them a lick. Closer to Christmas, they will be looking for homes. | Boxer Roxy, a Boxer from Polk County, Florida, gave birth to 14 puppies on Wednesday .
Her labor lasted 12 hours .
The new mother and her brood are doing well . |
278,872 | f54abd46eb8f821fa6992b7c3568ac4a192d68c0 | By . Kieran Corcoran . PUBLISHED: . 11:38 EST, 6 March 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 03:29 EST, 7 March 2014 . A mother taking her two young daughters to school was elbowed to the floor by a woman who shouted at her and two other parents for blocking the path. Kirsty Livingstone, 28, was standing with other mothers and their pushchairs on a street in Southborne, Dorset, when she was knocked down by 34-year-old Telicia Henry. Miss Livingstone suffered whiplash, a chipped shoulder bone and severe bruising from the fall. Attacked: Kirsty Livingstone was elbowed to the floor by Telicia Henry in Southbourne, Dorest . Bruising: Miss Livingstone suffered painful injuries as a result of her fall . Seconds before, Henry, who had recently emerged from an off-licence, started shouting and swearing at the group before angrily barging past. After the assault, she continued to school and picked up her children Lillie, five, and Ella, seven, before calling police. Attacker: Telicia Henry, pictured, pleaded guilty to common assault . The pain from the injuries gave Miss Livingstone sleepless nights and has made her nervous of going outside, a court heard. Officers arrested Henry, of no fixed abode, who later appeared at Bournemouth Magistrates’ Court where she pleaded guilty to common assault and received a six-week suspended prison sentence. Mark Price, defending, said: 'When this offence happened she was faced with a crowd of mothers and pushchairs and couldn’t get past. 'So she forced her way through forcefully - it wasn’t a reckless assault.' In a statement read to the court, Miss Livingstone said the assault left her unable to sleep for three nights because of the pain and she lost her confidence when out walking. Henry was told: 'This offence was committed in a group of ladies with children around. 'The abusive language you used was totally unacceptable and resulted in the lady being totally and utterly intimidated.' After the case Miss Livingstone, a part-time shop assistant, said: 'I was with some other mums and we had seen the woman go into an off-licence. 'We had about 20 minutes until we had to pick up the children from school. 'Then the woman came down the road and approached us. She elbowed me so hard that I fell over. 'I was in absolute shock, she could have easily avoided me but she knew what she wanted to do. 'I went to collect my children from school and when I got there I burst out crying and had a cup of tea with one of the teachers who called the police. 'The next day I went to hospital and discovered I had severe whiplash and a chipped bone in my shoulder. My arm was in a sling for two weeks because of it.' School run: Miss Livingstone was heading to school to collect her daughters Ella, seven (centre) and Lillie, five (right) | Kirsty Livingstone, 28, was knocked down in Southbourne, Dorset .
She was walking to school to collect daughters Ella, seven, and Lillie, five .
Telicia Henry, 34, started shouting and swearing before the attack .
She pleaded guilty to common assault at Bournemouth Magistrates' Court . |
246,817 | cb6c4b8f63adbdf538ce4f3c649b424853758a7d | By . Ian Garland . PUBLISHED: . 08:10 EST, 23 May 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 08:47 EST, 23 May 2012 . A family home has been reduced to rubble in a huge explosion, just three days after residents of the same street were told the gas they could smell was 'nothing to worry about'. Miraculously no one was killed in the explosion on Argyle Street, Stoke-on-Trent on Tuesday afternoon. Two people suffered minor injuries and a pregnant neighbour was taken to hospital but was later released unharmed. Rubble: The remains of the house after the explosion ripped through it on Tuesday afternoon . Mystery: The National Grid maintain there's still no evidence of a gas leak - even after the explosion . Fire crews from Hanley and Longton, the Urban Search and Rescue Unit from Greater Manchester and a team from West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service attended the incident. Initially work was halted because the building was so unstable and it was not safe to proceed. About three hours after the explosion, two sniffer dogs searched the scene but did not discover any casualties. The force of the blast was so strong, emergency crews evacuated nine homes on the same street, fearing the shock could cause them to collapse too. Resident Derek Callear, 65, said: 'I was walking down the street and suddenly I saw the whole house go up in the air. 'There was a huge cloud of smoke and rubble flying out, and I saw a man lying on the ground. 'Two people were sitting in the van parked directly outside the house; they are really lucky to be alive.' Affected: Neighbours the Qamers and the Domagalas live near to the scene of the explosion and have been left without gas or electricity . Miraculous: Emergency crews searched the rubble but found no bodies or casualties . A number of worried homeowners had called out engineers to Argyle Street on Saturday to search for the source of a strong gas smell. But they were reassured there was no sign of a leak. Mr Callear added: 'People have been reporting the smell of gas in this street for about a week. 'I called the national grid, and I know at least three of my neighbours had too, but they didn’t find anything wrong.' Another neighbour, Marie Ashton, 72, said: 'I heard this huge bang and at first I thought my washing machine had exploded. 'I went outside and everything was covered in dust.' Incredibly, tests carried out after the explosion still show no sign of a leak. A National Grid spokesman said: 'We are carrying out checks on our network but no gas has escaped in the immediate area.' The mystery has left officers at Staffordshire Police scratching their heads. Detective Inspector Steve Morrey, said: 'This type of incident is very rare. Detectives are currently investigating circumstances leading to the explosion.' | Neighbours called to complain about gas smell - but no leak was found .
National Grid insist there's still no sign of a leak after testing blast site . |
136,922 | 3d1da3797ca33ee34fee8ea697903b50d7c524db | A woman who left a childhood friend in a coma after she ran over him while drunk driving has been jailed for two years. Sharon Ball, 25, left Sean Clements with shocking back injuries after she struck him with her car while more than two-and-a-half times the legal drink drive limit. Mr Clements, of Viewpark, Lanarkshire, was sitting on a grass verge with friends when Ball sped her Peugeot 307 off the road and slammed into them. Childhood friend: Sharon Ball, pictured outside court today, left Sean Clements, pictured right, with shocking back injuries after she struck him with her car while more than two-and-a-half times the legal drink drive limit . Onlookers managed to pull the car off Mr Clements, who was trapped underneath the vehicle. The 24-year-old, who was knocked unconscious by the force of the impact, spent a month in hospital and suffered third degree burns to his lower back and buttocks from Ball's spinning tyres. He had a bruised left lung and cuts to his scalp. He also had extensive skin grafts to treat his burn injuries. Scarred: Mr Clements spent a month in hospital and suffered third degree burns to his lower back and buttocks from Ball's spinning tyres. He had extensive skin grafts to treat his burn injuries (pictured) He is now receiving counselling for post-traumatic stress and can't work. Ball, a mother-of-one, had previously admitted being drunk at the wheel and striking Mr Clement and his friend Steven Millar with the car last July. She was today jailed at Hamilton Sheriff Court and banned from driving for three years. Defence lawyer John Costello said: 'The choice here is fairly stark and she fully expects to be getting a custodial sentence. 'I would have to concede that it would be merited given the nature of the offence. 'She does though have a young child who would be affected should she be in custody. She has a great deal of regret in this matter which is genuine. 'The complainants were all friends of her when this happened and she shows no malice towards them.' Speaking after the sentencing, Mr Clements said: 'I'm happy she has got what she deserved. 'Two years is better than nothing but I could have died that night and have been left scarred for life. 'We had been having a drink together that day with other friends and there had been no arguments or anything like that. 'Sharon disappeared at one point and turned up later racing her up and down the street. 'I thought she was just drunk and trying to show off. Then at one point I turned round and all I could see was the lights of the car coming right towards me. 'I had no time to get away and that's the last thing I remember. When I woke up in hospital two days later I couldn't believe it when my mum told me it was Sharon who had hit me.' Depute fiscal Paula Russell said factory worker Ball had driven at excessive speeds on the night of the incident and given a alcohol reading of 88mcgs of alcohol. The legal limit is 35. She said: 'As the vehicle stopped both men were underneath it. 'A large number of members of the public physically lifted the vehicle off him and freed him from underneath. 'It was noted by a doctor that without quick treatment Mr Clements' injuries could have been life threatening.' Sheriff Vincent Smith told Ball her early plea had persuaded him to reduce her jail term from 30 months. Struck: Mr Clements, of Viewpark, Lanarkshire, was sitting on a grass verge with friends, pictured, when Ball sped her Peugeot 307 off the road and slammed into them. Onlookers had to lift the vehicle off Mr Clements . He said: 'You drove in a particular fashion which went way beyond what could be described as dangerous driving. 'You were under the influence of alcohol and you drove a vehicle at speed and you were asked to slow down. 'You then mounted the pavement and persons who you were earlier with were on a grass verge. Two people ended up under the vehicle. 'The victim was taken to hospital and the doctors were of the opinion that had he not had treatment then he would have died. 'I would have imposed a period of 30 months but given the plea that will be reduced to 24 months.' | Sharon Ball, 25, struck Sean Clements as he sat with friends in Lanarkshire .
He suffered third-degree burns to his lower back and buttocks from tyres .
The 25-year-old also had a bruised left lung and cuts to his scalp .
Ball, who was more than two-and-a-half-times legal limit, was jailed today . |
169,073 | 66be4110158e0ae14be5917236ddd46cfacf1b58 | By . Victoria Woollaston . PUBLISHED: . 06:18 EST, 9 October 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 07:06 EST, 9 October 2013 . Following reports the average person looks at their phone 110 times a day, a doctor has warned that too much smartphone use could actually be damaging our spines. Slumping over phones and tablets reading messages or playing games - dubbed 'iSlouching' - can cause the head to sit further forward and add pressure to a person's spine. Florida-based Dr. Matt Herba claims that many people, especially children, are already reporting neck problems and, long-term, this damage could become permanent. Slumping over phones and tablets - dubbed 'iSlouching' - can cause the head to sit further forward and add pressure to a person's spine. Florida-based Dr. Matt Herba claims many people, especially children, are already reporting neck problems and this damage could become permanent . A study published in the International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics found 53 per cent of mobile phone users suffer numbness or neck aches - dubbed 'text neck'. Another study by San Francisco State University discovered 83 per cent of people have experienced 'some hand and neck pain during texting'. These people also displayed other signs of tension, like holding their breath and increased heart rates. 'Studies now show that as the head starts to go forward, it can add up to 10 pounds of pressure to the spine,' said Dr. Herba, a chiropractor from Winter Springs, Florida. He told News 13 young people are experiencing neck pain from leaning forward over their mobiles, and this could lead to irreversible damage to the cartilage and tissue between the vertebrae. The report also found orthodontists are . seeing a rise in children grinding their teeth, and damaging their jaw, while . playing games - dubbed 'iGrinding'. Long-term, Herba believes this will lead to increasing back and neck pain among older people, and as it can take years for the symptoms to be fully revealed, advises people to limit the amount of time they spend using their devices now. Mobile operator O2 added: 'O2 is aware . continuous or excessive texting or game playing with a mobile phone can . have the potential to cause harm. Herba claims iSlouching will lead to increasing back and neck pain among older people. As it can take years for the symptoms to be fully revealed, he advises people to limit the amount of time they spend using the devices now to prevent future problems . 'Users must be aware of the risks of repetitive strain injury (RSI), for example. RSI is an umbrella term referring to various kinds of injuries to muscles, tendons or nerves caused by repetitive movement of a part of the body. 'It has not been scientifically proven that texting and playing games on a mobile phone can cause RSI, however, we recommend that you do not grip the phone tightly and hold the phone up in front of you to reduce flexing of the neck.' A study published in the International . Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics found 53 per cent of . mobile phone users suffer numbness or neck aches - dubbed 'text neck'. Another study by San Francisco State . University discovered 83 per cent of people have experienced 'some hand . and neck pain during texting'. These people also displayed other signs of tension, like holding their breath and increased heart rates. | Slumping over phones to see texts or play games is dubbed iSlouching .
Rise in iSlouching, especially in children, said to be causing spinal damage .
Chiropractor believes this adds 10lbs of pressure to a person's neck .
Children also found to be grinding their teeth when playing games . |
132,948 | 37e85a449b93996189f4b8a75692cec34963d282 | CRYSTAL LAKE, Illinois (CNN) -- Karin Kubacki no longer buys clothing or toys for her 7-year-old son, Max. Karin and Chris Kubacki are cutting back to make her severance and unemployment pay last a year. She avoids driving her 8-year-old Honda Civic unless absolutely necessary and has no plans to repair a second vehicle, an 11-year-old Ford F-250. Bubble baths and Hershey bars are now her few luxuries. These are among the cost-saving measures Kubacki is taking to make her 13 weeks of severance pay last a full year. Kubacki, the family breadwinner, was laid off July 1 from a job she loved -- software project manager at Accenture, where she had worked for 15 years. At first, she was stunned. "I had this impression that someone had grabbed a big vacuum and sucked all the air out of the room. It was like I couldn't get my breath," she said. Her husband, a former schoolteacher who is a stay-at-home dad and a woodworker, feared for the family's financial future. "At first there is the panic, 'Oh my gosh, we are going to lose the house tomorrow and live in a cardboard box,' " Chris Kubacki recalled. Watch the Kubackis discuss how they've handled Karin's job loss » . Yet his wife was determined to make her loss an opportunity to spend more time with the family while taking time to find another job she would love as much as the one she had just lost. So the Kubackis are trying to make Karin's severance, unemployment checks and some extra cash Accenture provided to pay for an extension of her health insurance last a full year. They are determined to keep paying the mortgage on their home in Crystal Lake, Illinois, a Chicago suburb, and not dig into savings -- all on an expected pre-tax income of $54,000, a little less than half of the family's normal earnings. "We have been frugal people, and we have tried to save as much as we can, and that is one of the reasons why I have been able to stay home with Max," said Chris, who builds wooden toys for his son. But never have the Kubackis been as frugal as they are now. For the first time, the family is living by a strict budget. They are saving by: . • Biking and walking rather than driving, whenever possible . • Rarely going out to restaurants . • Finding enriching community activities for their child that cost little or nothing . • Taking out books from the library . • Purchasing only absolute necessities and buying what's on sale. "There are no luxuries now. Before, we had a lot more where we could say, 'Let's go do this.' Now it's a lot more careful," Karin said. "When I had a job, when I shopped, I would make impulse purchases. Now, no way." Not only is diminished consumption not as painful as it might seem, the Kubackis say, but the change has also brought a fuller and more enjoyable lifestyle than at any time when Karin was earning a regular paycheck. "We can have all kinds of fun doing things that don't cost anything," Chris said. Chris concedes he has felt internal pressure to get a job, but the couple agrees that for now, they prefer to avoid that to be able to spend as much time together and have Chris available for Max. After adopting a frugal lifestyle, the Kubackis say they now really appreciate life's little luxuries. "If you pick just a couple of luxuries like Hershey bars, then you really enjoy 'em. And if you have a lot of luxuries, then they become necessities. But if you only have a couple, boy are they terrific," Karin said. Even though neither Karin nor Chris now hold jobs, they are still giving 10 percent of Karin's unemployment check to their church. Living only a few doors from the neighborhood food pantry, they see frequent reminders of their blessings. "So I don't have a job right now," Karin said. "We've got a house. We've got cars, we've got food. We have nothing to complain about." Are you fighting the recession, using innovative techniques to stay ahead in this economy or overcoming financial adversity? Share your story with us by sending an e-mail to [email protected] , and you could be profiled in an upcoming segment on CNN. | Chicago-area couple start cost-saving measures after breadwinner loses job .
They hope to make 13 weeks' severance last all year while still paying the mortgage .
Among their tactics: avoid driving when possible, buy only necessities when on sale . |
140,506 | 41b032f748bed8d0442c9d350893189791e171f7 | A well-respected physical education teacher from Virginia landed behind bars for allegedly trying his hand at styling hair on an unsuspecting friend. Melvin Hunt, 61, a gym teacher at the private Riverside School in Chesterfield County, has been charged with misdemeanor assault in connection to the bizarre incident. The victim, a 44-year-old psychical education and health teacher from Elizabeth Davis Middle School, told police that Hunt chopped off 8 to 12 inches of hair on the right side of her head while hugging her in a school parking last week. Melvin Scissorhands: Physical education teacher Melvin Hunt, 61, has been charged with misdemeanor assault for allegedly cutting 8-12 inches of hair from a friend's head while hugging her . According to a police report obtained by Richmond Times-Dispatch, the Riverside School employee arrived at his friend’s place of work at around 3.30pm Friday to set out on a planned trip. While sitting in his car, Hunt informed the teacher that he no longer needed her to go with him. He then asked for the keys to the woman's car so he could place a letter inside for her to read later. The 44-year-old middle school gym teacher handed him the keys, and Hunt went over to the vehicle to put the note on the passenger seat. The court document states that when he returned to his car, he asked the woman for a hug. According to the complaint, as the couple embraced, Hunt firmly grasped the woman's ponytail and cut several inches of hair. She only realized what happened after she saw her chopped tresses fall to the ground. Educator: Hunt has been teaching physical education at Riverside School in Virginia for many years . The 61-year-old suspect then tossed his friend’s car keys over a fence and took off in his car, according to investigators. Police said Hunt and the women know each other but have not been dating, but in her request for an emergency order of protection the 44-year-old listed her relationship to Hunt as ‘girlfriend.’ Mr Hunt showed up for work Monday morning after his release from jail, but he has since been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation. In 2007, the veteran gym teacher won the Virginia Middle School Physical Education Teacher of the Year. | Melvin Hunt, 61, charged with misdemeanor assault over the unsolicited haircut .
The physical education teacher from Virginia is accused of cutting hair from a female gym teacher's head in a school parking lot .
The pair were supposed to go on a trip together, but Hunt canceled on the woman and then asked her for a hug . |
146,322 | 49354383e73aba4f943b21f17e2396c36fe17c68 | (CNN) -- English Premier League side Liverpool are a "sinking ship" under current coach Rafael Benitez, according to one of their players. Albert Riera joined the Anfield club in September 2008 on a four-year deal but has been a peripheral figure this campaign. Liverpool finished second in the Premier League behind Manchester United last season but the 18-time title winners haven't won a trophy since 2006. The club are currently in sixth place, 15 points behind league leaders United, were knocked out of the European Champions League in the group stages and dumped out of the FA Cup by second tier side Reading. Now Riera has laid the blame at Benitez's door in an interview with Spanish radio station Marca: "When the coach says nothing to you and you are well, with no physical problems and training well, you cannot help but think it must be something personal. "If I'm doing something badly and you are my boss, and you value me, then you are going to come and tell me what I have to do to play again. This is what hurts me. When you see a ship is sinking and don't do anything. "It's a little frustrating because you see that you can help. I've been here two years and I know how he (Benitez) is. He's never sorted out a situation with a player by talking with him. He thinks he's in charge and everything else falls on deaf ears. His dialogue with the players is practically nil." His comments were later criticized by former Liverpool and Germany international Dietmar Hamann, who made 283 appearances for the club between 1999 and 2006. He suggested to the UK Press Association that Riera wasn't in the team because his form hasn't been up to scratch since joining from Espanyol. "I didn't read too much into the comments because he's a player who has not played too much football over the last six to eight months," Hamann said. "He is clearly frustrated but you have to say since he signed for Liverpool he has not done enough to really have an opinion on the manager. "If Riera is not in the team it is probably because he is not doing enough in training or in games. You have players these days who complain about managers and I think these players should look at themselves." Riera is concerned that his lack of first-team football will affect his chances of going to the World Cup with Spain, and he says he is considering offers from Russian clubs. He added on Marca Radio: "I would like to be here for the rest of my career, but players live to play. My objective is to go to the World Cup and for this I have to play. "Right now the only market open is the Russian one, I have offers from two teams and, looking at my situation, that has made me reflect a lot." | Liverpool are a "sinking ship" according to winger Albert Riera .
Riera says coach Rafael Benitez rarely talks with players .
Liverpool are having a poor season by their standards .
Riera is worried his lack of playing time will affect World Cup chances . |
230,014 | b5dbec8ca426780ba08e70e93aabad5aece914e1 | By . Alexandra Klausner . A father from Houston, Texas is in tears after learning the nine-year-old daughter he thought was still alive was discovered dead in the refrigerator at his ex-girlfriend's home. A neighbor called police to the Happy Home apartments in the 10100 block of Club Creek at 6 p.m. on Monday after finding the girl Ayahna Comb dead and wrapped in blankets in the refrigerator. The neighbor told reporters she grew worried when he hadn't seen the child in a while. When the paramedics arrived at the home of mother Amber Keyes, they determined that the child must have been dead for at least a month. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . Ayahna Comb, 9, was discovered dead in the refrigerator at her mother's home where paramedics say she was dead for at least a month . The dead girl was found in the refrigerator of a home at The Happy Home Apartments (pictured) in Houston, Texas . The girl's father Armand Comb told KHOU that his daughter suffered cerebral palsy and even though she couldn't communicate or walk, she was always happy. Comb last saw his daughter two months ago and she appeared to be in good health. 'Last . time I saw her, she was looking good. It looked like she was gaining . weight. Her cheeks were kind of fat. I would never, never suspect that,' he said. When . Comb spoke to his ex-girlfriend on Monday, the day his daughter was . discovered, 'She was talking like she was there with them,' he said. For the time being, child services has taken away his second daughter younger daughter. 'Hopefully she will come back home tomorrow, or go to my cousin’s house,' he said. I just want to know what happened man, why? I was right here I would’ve helped. I would’ve done anything.' It's still unclear how the little girl died. The Mail Online contacted Houston police who said that Keyes was being cooperative with police. Relatives say that Keyes turned herself in. Police have not yet filed any charges against the mother. Ayahna Comb suffered from cerebral palsy and was confined to a wheelchair (pictured) and was still bottle fed by her mother when she was alive . The girl's father Armand Comb said that he had no idea his daughter was dead and that he would have done anything he could to stop it . | A neighbor discovered Ayahna Comb, 9, after becoming worried about her because she hadn't seen her in a while .
The girl's father Armand Comb had no idea that his daughter, who suffered from cerebral palsy, was dead .
The child lived with her mother and Comb's ex-girlfriend Amber Keyes .
Relatives say Keyes turned herself in but police could not confirm whether or not she was a suspect nor did they say how the girl died .
The girl had a five-year-old sister who has been taken into custody by Child Protective Services for the time being . |
92,016 | 025a2cea9941df1ef4d30f5e95625d2340012f96 | Former AC Milan and Croatia star Zvonimir Boban has laid into Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini, claiming the £27.5million man 'can't play football' after Belgium's goalless draw with Wales on Sunday. Fellaini, who played the full 90 minutes for Belgium against Chris Coleman's Wales side, was involved in a controversial incident when he appeared to elbow Liverpool's Joe Allen. The United midfielder managed to avoid going into referee Pavel Kralovec's book but was unable to escape Boban's public criticism. Marouane Fellaini, pictured clashing with Joe Allen, has been told he 'can't play football' by Zvonimir Boban . Fellaini landed a dangerous elbow to the face of Wales midfielder Allen during a second-half tangle . Former AC Milan and Croatia star Boban does not appear to be a fan of United ace Fellaini . Boban, who played for AC Milan for 11 years and won four Serie A titles and one Champions League, said: 'Fellaini can't play football. Seriously he can't play football,' reported the Daily Mirror: . The former Yugoslavia and Croatia midfielder's criticism comes just as Fellaini has started to look settled in United's starting line-up following his return from an ankle injury. The 26-year-old has been a regular in Louis van Gaal's plans since he came off the substitutes bench to score his first competitive goal for his current club against West Brom. Fellaini struggled for form during his first season at Old Trafford but recently revealed he felt he was being used as a scapegoat during his time under former manager David Moyes. The former Everton star will be hoping to be involved from the start against Arsenal at the weekend. Fellaini looks away as Allen lies on the turf after the incident in Belgium on Sunday night . Liverpool and Wales midfielder Allen had to receive treatment on the field after the elbow . Fellaini scored his first competitive goal for Manchester United against West Brom in October . Like our Manchester United Facebook page. | Marouane Fellaini elbowed Joe Allen during Belgium's 0-0 draw with Wales .
Zvonimir Boban is not a fan of the Manchester United midfielder .
Premier League star Fellaini has started United's last three league games . |
192,302 | 84fbb9a5f5e02abc603e97f0a05f0fec1ba8dc30 | Qunu, South Africa (CNN) -- The coffin carrying Nelson Mandela's body arrived Saturday in his ancestral village of Qunu, where he'll be buried Sunday amid the lush green hills of his boyhood. After a plane carrying his casket touched down in Mthatha, the closest airport to Qunu, it was taken in a procession past mourners who lined the roads to his rural home. The mood among the crowd was a celebration of his life, as well as sadness for his passing. The nation's first black president had often said he felt most at peace here at his rural home in the southeastern corner of the nation. "Look, he loved these hills," his daughter, Maki Mandela, told CNN in an exclusive interview. "He really believed this is where he belonged." His burial Sunday comes after 10 days of mourning. Before Mandela's journey home, the ruling African National Congress bid him farewell Saturday morning at an air force base in Pretoria. Members of the ruling party stood, bowed and prayed around his black, flag-draped casket. "Icon of our struggle. Father of our nation," read a giant poster bearing a picture of a smiling Mandela. His wife, Graca Machel, sat in the front row, dabbing her eyes with a handkerchief. "We will miss him, he was our leader in a special time. Go well, Tata," President Jacob Zuma said, using the Xhosa word for father. "You've played your part. You've made your contribution. We'll always remember you." Helicopters hovered overhead as soldiers carried the casket into the military plane. It then took off for Qunu -- followed by fighter jets. 'He really wanted to die here' Thousands of mourners lined the streets from the airport as Mandela's remains were brought to the remote village where he spent much of his childhood. Mandela relished his time at the village, which is marked by endless open fields and velvety grass. It's where he herded cows and goats as a child; where his relatives are buried at the family farm. "Even when my father was in jail, he had the most fondest memories of Qunu," Maki Mandela said. "And he really wanted to die here." Intimate tributes . The Rev. Jesse Jackson, the U.S. civil rights leader, told CNN that Saturday was "a day of painful celebration." "People are beginning to realize what they've lost, but they know they've got so much left," said Jackson, referring to the sweeping political and social change achieved by the anti-apartheid leader. "They know what he left in place stays in place." He was planning to attend Mandela's funeral Sunday, where the tributes were expected to be more intimate. The military handed over his remains to elders at his home. And, in a symbol of the return of one of their own, the national flag that had covered his coffin was replaced with a lion skin, a traditional symbol of the Xhosa people. At dusk, tribal leaders and men in his family held a private vigil to honor traditions of his native Thembu clan. His casket was to lie overnight in his bedroom, which overlooks the hills and his grave site. What to expect as Nelson Mandela is laid to rest . Small village, giant spotlight . Mandela died last week at age 95. Events leading up to the burial included a memorial service Tuesday followed by three days of public viewing at Pretoria's Union Buildings, where he was sworn in as president in 1994. About 100,000 people paid homage to Mandela during the three days he lay in state, government officials said. The airport in East London, south of Qunu, will be used for their arrival and departure of dignitaries, with access closely controlled. Thousands were expected to make the trip to Qunu for the burial, thrusting the remote village into the international spotlight. The guest list of foreign dignitaries included Britain's Prince Charles, talk show host Oprah Winfrey and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. A private family prayer service will be held Sunday morning at Mandela's home. The funeral will take place in a white tent set up at the family farm. The Mandela family, Zuma and the Cabinet members will be present along with local and foreign dignitaries. About 4,500 people are expected. The military will again be charged with draping the flag over Mandela's coffin. Members of the military will perform a salute, and play the national anthem. The burial . About 430 family and friends will walk to the grave site to say goodbye to the man many consider to be the father of their nation. Mandela will be buried in the rocky soil of his childhood home. The burial area has been built for him; some of Mandela's relatives are already buried there. Security . Zuma has authorized nearly 12,000 members of the South African National Defence Force to serve alongside the police force. A tight military cordon is expected around the funeral site. As South Africa prepares to bury Nelson Mandela, young Africans are optimistic about the future . CNN's Robyn Curnow reported from the Mandela compound in Qunu, Faith Karimi wrote and reported from Atlanta and Laura Smith-Spark from London. CNN's Kim Norgaard contributed to this report. | Nelson Mandela's casket arrives in Qunu, where he spent much of his childhood .
"Even when my father was in jail, he had the most fondest memories of Qunu," daughter says .
In Qunu, the military hands over his remains to his family .
Mandela will be buried Sunday after a funeral service . |
182,307 | 78135a713ecdafb26a5170819ad8c6eb06a4ab9e | By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 19:13 EST, 30 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 19:13 EST, 30 January 2014 . A pensioner has died after deliberately setting himself on fire inside a dental surgery. The 66-year-old doused himself in lighter fuel and set himself ablaze in the reception area of the Little London Dental Care surgery in Chichester, West Sussex. Anthony Chase was sprayed with fire extinguisher foam following the incident on Monday afternoon and when paramedics arrived he was still conscious and able to walk and talk. The 66-year-old doused himself in lighter fuel and set himself ablaze in the reception area of the Little London Dental Care surgery in Chichester, West Sussex . But he died two days later at Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead. Police said they were not treating the death as suspicious and that the matter had been left with the coroner. A police spokesman added: ‘It is understood that the incident may have involved a can of cigarette lighter fluid, but the exact circumstances of how a fire came to be ignited have not yet been established. 'The fire was small and short-lived and was confined to the man’s clothing. Anthony Chase was sprayed with fire extinguisher foam following the incident on Monday afternoon and when paramedics arrived he was still conscious and able to walk and talk. But he died two days later at Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead . A post-mortem examination took place but the exact cause of death awaits a report from the pathologist.' Controllers from South East Coast Ambulance Service sent two crews to the surgery, which arrived within five minutes. They treated Mr Chase man at the scene and left at 3.50pm for the short journey to St Richards Hospital. Southern Dental, the group which owns the surgery, has not yet commented on the incident. | Anthony Chase sprayed with fire extinguisher foam following incident .
Had doused himself in lighter fluid and set alight at Dental surgery .
He died two days later at Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead . |
38,214 | 6c0ebc0dc1f9de41ad3e3ea34e90a91d5690f1d1 | (CNN) -- Brazilian authorities have confiscated food "not fit for consumption" from two hotels that will host the English and Italian national teams during the upcoming World Cup competition in Brazil. According to Procon, the Brazilian consumer protection agency, inspectors found food past its consumption date at the Portobello Hotel in the city of Mangaratiba, a suburb just west of Rio de Janeiro. The Italian national team is expected to stay at the Portobello. In a surprise inspection Monday, Procon said, inspectors found 25 kilograms (about 55 pounds) of expired pasta, shrimp, salmon and margarine. At Portobello, inspectors also seized 24 kilograms (about 53 pounds) of steak, sauces, beef heart, cheese, sugar and fish without expiration labels. Fabio Domingos, head of Procon in Rio de Janeiro state, told Agencia Brasil, the state-run news agency, that he's very concerned about the number of establishments that have violated sanitation rules. "It is unacceptable for a hotel like Portobello to store expired food. It's one of the two largest hotels in Rio state that will be hosting international teams and it's storing expired shrimp, meat and pasta. All of the expired food has been disposed of by our agents," Domingos said. In a statement, Juliana Castanheira, a Portobello Hotel press representative, said executives there "are taking measures to fully comply with the law." "This was an exception to our practices," Castanheira said. "Since our team has had to work hard to meet high demand from the public, there was a failure in the disposal of food which expired the day before the visit by the inspection agency. However, no expired or unsafe food was served to our customers." Last week, in another surprise inspection, Procon inspectors found food past consumption quality at the Royal Tulip Hotel in the São Conrado neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro. That hotel is expected to host the English national team during the World Cup. Inspectors there found 2.36 kilograms (about 5 pounds) of expired lard, Parma ham and salmon. The hotel released a statement to CNN saying, "Rio de Janeiro's Royal Tulip would like to make it clear that it follows all external and internal standards of quality control of its food and drinks and is investigating this incident." All establishments with violations have 15 days to explain to contest the charges. Otherwise, they face a fine. As part of stepped-up effort to improve food safety, hotel and tourist services during the World Cup, Brazilian authorities launched Operation Shirt 10, named for the jersey number worn by iconic Brazilian star Pelé, whos real name is Edson Arantes do Nascimento. Out of 13 establishments that have been inspected so far, eight have been cited and fined for expired food and other violations. The establishments where inspectors found sanitation and other violations include restaurants, supermarkets, bakeries, stores and hotels. But a Procon statement said the Caesar Park Hotel, where the Dutch national team will stay, passed inspection without a problem. Brazil will host the World Cup from June 12 to July 13, with its team among 32 squads from around the world competing for the championship. Games in the 2014 World Cup will be played in twelve Brazilian cities: Belo Horizonte, Brasilia, Cuiaba, Curitiba, Fortaleza, Manaus, Natal, Porto Alegre, Recife, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, Sao Paulo. | Surprise inspections turn up food that was past consumption dates .
Expired food was confiscated at two hotels where World Cup teams are to stay .
One hotel says the food had expired the day before the inspection, and was not served .
The other hotel says it follows quality control standards, and is investigating . |
121,122 | 2891f3da0cc4d1fa0b36054ede828e6725f11be4 | Tokyo (CNN) -- Japanese police have arrested a man after the dismembered body of a missing six-year-old girl was found in several plastic bags near her home in Kobe City. Through DNA testing, police identified the remains as those of first-grade student Mirei Ikuta, missing since September 11, police from Hyogo prefecture told CNN. The remains were found Tuesday afternoon by police searching bush near the girl's home. Police said a 47-year-old local man, Yasuhiro Kimino, was arrested Wednesday afternoon in relation to the disposal of the body. Local media reported the man's hospital ID card had been found in the bags. Japanese news agency Kyodo quoted an investigation source as saying the bags, one containing the victim's head and another the victim's hand, was found about 100 meters from her family home in central Japan. Local media reported Mirei was last seen at her grandmother's house on September 11, before leaving to see a friend. Two brothers re-arrested in Pakistan for cannibalism . | The remains of missing 6-year-old Mirei Ikuta has been found in Kobe City, Japan .
Police have arrested a 47-year-old man from the area over the disposal of her body .
Ikuta was last seen on September 11 .
Her dismembered remains were found in several plastic bags, police said . |
200,990 | 9035f7deb79a0b3f1feb7449784bf1172636c461 | By . Nick Enoch . PUBLISHED: . 10:42 EST, 1 April 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 01:58 EST, 2 April 2013 . A village shop which has been run by the same family for more than 200 years is for sale for the first time - with strict measures that it is preserved under a rare covenant. King George III was on the throne when Thompson's began trading in 1786 and since then it has been passed down the family until it reached sixth generation Grace Thompson in 1943. She was forced to retire nine years ago but, concerned that the landmark building might be converted into a house or a cafe, she has won the backing of local town chiefs to place a condition on the sale meaning that the new owner has to run it as a shop. Scroll down for video . For sale: King George III was on the throne when Thompson's began trading in 1786 and since then it has been passed down the family until it reached sixth generation Grace Thompson in 1943. She is the child pictured behind the bicycle in this photo from the 1930s . Grace Thompson retired in 2004 and has now ensured that a condition on the sale means the new owner has to run Thompson's as a shop. She is pictured (left) with her mother in the 1960s in the store . Her actions have ensured that this remarkable piece of architectural and social history will be preserved. And villagers are hoping that whoever buys it, at an auction guide of £200,000, will keep the vintage shop front and signage along with the period cabinets and delivery bicycle. The family's ancestor, Edward Thompson, started retailing from the front room of his home in Osmotherley, North Yorkshire, but the entrepreneurial Georgian soon built his small enterprise into a general store and each successive generation has added to it. In 1880, Edward D. Thompson started selling newspapers and by 1935, the store was described as 'a veritable mini Harrods'. Thompson's, in Osmotherley, North Yorkshire, is set to fetch £200,000 at auction . Villagers are hoping that whoever buys it will keep the vintage shop front and signage along with the period cabinets and delivery bicycle . Miss Thompson was 16 and left grammar school to help run the business after her father died and, along with her mother and her uncle, she worked from dawn until dusk . A newspaper article from that era . reveals that all the proprietors were born in the same room of the . property and even records snatches of conversation from the counter. 'A pound of rice for my mummy,' said a little girl; 'an ounce of cut plug [tobacco],' said the farmer. 'I should like to see some boys' shorts and have you got anything to cure the flu?' says the housewife. Back then, the shop billed itself as a grocer, general drapers, tea dealers and provisions merchant plus wholesale and retail tobacconists, newsagents and fancy dealers. It also sold medicines, ironmongery, postcards and was a post office for a time. Miss Thompson was 16 and left grammar school to help run the business after her father died and, along with her mother and her uncle, she worked from dawn until dusk. Goods in sacks and tea chests were collected from the railway station by horse and cart. Her uncle died in 1961 and her mother in 1982, leaving Miss Thompson, now 85, to run the shop alone until she retired in 2004 after a fall. Her friend Pat Duggan said: 'The shop was her whole life and she kept it going as long as she could. In 1880, Edward D. Thompson started selling newspapers and by 1935, the store was described as 'a veritable mini Harrods' 'It was difficult as she and her mother couldn't drive, which meant they couldn't go to the wholesalers like other shopkeepers. 'She was still delivering the newspapers in the village herself until she was 75 and everyone loved her. 'The only thing she wouldn't do was sell caps for toy guns to girls. She didn't think that was right. 'She is very proud of her family and rightly so - Thompson's is famous, even in America and Australia.' Estate agent Robin Jessop is selling the property at auction on May 15, along with the family's two-bedroom cottage next door, which has a guide price for £100,000. He says: 'It was Miss Thompson's wish that it should remain a village shop and the parish council and the York North Moors National Park have both supported the restrictive covenant. 'It is an iconic property with a tremendous position and a lot of history. It must be the oldest grocery store in North Yorkshire and perhaps beyond.' In the 19th century, the shop billed itself as a grocer, general drapers, tea dealers and provisions merchant plus wholesale and retail tobacconists, newsagents and fancy dealers . The shop is in need of renovation but has 2,000 sq ft of space, including living quarters with four bedrooms, outbuildings and a 0.6 acre grass paddock. The contents of Thompson's were sold at auction in January. There were old tins, medicine bottles, postcards and advertising displays spanning over two centuries. The most exciting lot was a set of large, domed tin tea caddies with painted oriental scenes which were valued at over £1,000. The sale also included a two-and-a-half foot tall HP sauce bottle made from tin from about 1910. 'She is very frail now,' said Ms Duggan, 'but I do hope Grace gets the pleasure of seeing Thompson's re-open as a shop.' | Thompson's in Osmotherley, North Yorks, began trading in 1786 .
Sixth generation owner Grace Thompson took over in 1943 until she retired nine years ago .
In 1880, Edward D. Thompson started selling newspapers and by 1935, the store was described as 'a veritable mini Harrods'
General store set to fetch £200,000 at auction . |
206,531 | 9766a19565138a004e3e96ed8dff82d3066a0f60 | They are the fashionable way to keep disease at bay. But expensive fish oil supplements may be doing little for our hearts while putting sharks in peril. Conservationists have warned that our appetite for omega-3 supplements and capsules has led to rampant fishing of deep-sea sharks, whose huge livers are oozing with valuable oils. Deep sea sharks, including the goblin shark (pictured), are being killed for the oils found within their livers . With some species taking decades to mature, the deep-sea dwellers are extremely vulnerable to over-exploitation. The charity Oceana Europe claims that 'pirate' fisherman are taking full advantage of laws that allow shark oil extracted from species caught outside the EU to be sold here. The liver oils, including omega-3, is 'the new gold,' said the charity. Marine wildlife scientist Allison Perry said: 'The omega-3 tablets that we buy comes from lots of different sources but there are some that are shark liver oil. Salmon (pictured right) and mackerel (left) are also high in Omega-3 . 'There are some vessels actively targeting deep-water sharks.' The . fats, which are particularly abundant in oily fish such as salmon and . mackerel, are credited with boosting the health of the heart, body and . brain, with studies linking them to staving off ills from heart attacks . to dementia and depression. But several recent studies, including two large-scale round-ups, have questioned whether they help heart health. In demand: Omega-3 supplements and capsules (such as the one pictured) come from many sources but some are shark liver oil . The most recent, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, crunched together the results of 20 studies involving almost 70,000 people. The review’s Greek authors said that omega-3 fats may help the heart by lowering levels of harmful blood fats, stopping harmful changes in heart rhythm, keeping the blood thin or lowering blood pressure. However, with studies coming to different conclusion, there was a need to clear up confusion. Their analysis found that those who took omega-3 were no less likely to die of a heart attack or stroke than others. The University Hospital of Ioannina researchers, however, did not completely dismiss the idea of supplementation. They said that while their results do not back wide-scale use of omega-3, more research is needed on the impact on different types of heart problems. Dosage should also be investigated further. A second-round up, by South Korean researchers in May, reached a similar conclusion. And two years ago, the New England Journal of Medicine reported that heart attack patients who took omega-3 were no less likely to go on to have a second heart attack than those who did not supplement their diet. Craze: Demand for omega-3 fish oils is putting sharks in peril . Others say that fish’s health benefits may lie elsewhere. Professor Tom Sanders, of King’s College London, told the Sunday Times: ‘There is a beneficial effect from fish and it be fish oil or it may be something else. ‘Heart disease rates have fallen a lot in the past 50 years anyway. ‘The biggest problem is people thinking that if they do take a supplement, they can do everything else wrong in terms of diet and lifestyle.’ But some experts believe the benefits to the brain are undisputable. Dr Alex Richardson, an Oxford University academic who has spent years researching the effect of omega-3 on behaviour, learning and mood, said: ‘It is an irrefutable fact that the brain tissue needs fatty acids.’ | 'Pirate' fishermen take advantage of laws allowing shark oil extracted from species caught outside the EU to be sold here .
Fats are thought to boost heart, body and brain health, though some scientists have questioned this . |
67,994 | c0ed38f3ac94fd2d7cc0e9d363f5ca71ebc28f96 | Editor's note: CNN.com has a business partnership with CareerBuilder.com, which serves as the exclusive provider of job listings and services to CNN.com. On average, voice actors make $47,000. If you have a highly recognizable voice, you'll probably get paid more. Every now and then, I come across an occupation that makes me wish I was in a different line of work. Don't get me wrong, I love my job -- but some professions really seem too good to be true. Recently, for example, I came across an article about a man named Julian Jones, whose job is essentially as a babysitter -- to all-star athletes. "Part companion, part publicist, part chaperone and part guardian angel, Mr. Jones, who lives in Las Vegas and works for a pair of casino owners, specializes in setting up elaborately arranged outings for athletes where every detail from transportation and tickets to the members of the entourage is premeditated," writes Hannah Karp of The Wall Street Journal, in an article about Jones. He got the gig when he met Gavin Maloof, who with his brother Joe, owns the Sacramento Kings and the Palms Casino Hotel in Las Vegas. Maloof first offered Jones a job as a personal assistant -- entertaining athletes was not in the job description. "Nowadays, armed with a complimentary suite at the casino, the keys to Mr. Maloof's Sacramento home and an allowance for first-class travel, Jones is free to perform his wingman role almost exclusively," Karp writes. "'We pretty much let J.J. go on his own,' says Mr. Maloof." While not everyone has the luck of meeting millionaires as Las Vegas, Nevada, parties, there are other (more realistic) cool jobs out there. Don't believe me? Take a look at these 10 awesome jobs: . 1. Cruise director . Cool factor: Aside from getting to travel the world on a cruise ship, these guys have the ability to make or break a cruising experience. They are essentially the face of the cruise line, planning and coordinating daily activities and excursions for passengers, on and off shore. If you love making plans and organizing activities but don't have strong sea legs, have a go at event planning. Average annual salary: $21,219* . 2. Doll doctor . Cool factor: We all had a favorite doll or something similar when we were young -- and we were devastated when something happened to it. Doll "doctors" can make that desolation go away for little ones. They examine dolls to determine the extent of damage and the repairs needed, and then restore them to the best condition possible. If you like to sew and/or fix things but aren't into dolls, look into careers in textiles, apparel and furnishings. Average annual salary: $24,413 . 3. Foley artist . Cool factor: Foley artists use whatever they can find to create and record the noises used to make the sound effects in films, like heavy footsteps, rolling thunder or creaking doors. If you're more interested in mixing music than sound effects, look into a job as a sound engineering technician. Average annual salary: $55,959 (sound technicians) 4. Food critic . Cool factor: What could be cooler than getting paid to taste everything from gourmet dishes to bar food -- for free -- and then publishing your opinion for others to read? If you're more interested in getting paid per word than per calorie, try your hand as a reporter. Average annual salary: $58,704 . 5. Pet psychologist . Cool factor: When a veterinarian can't diagnose an animal's condition, a pet psychologist might be called to diagnose the issue. If, for example, if a dog has been acting different since he came home from boarding, the psychologist works with the owner to resolve the issue. Not to be mistaken for a pet trainer, this occupation requires a high level of education and training. If you'd rather help animals through medical treatments than behavioral remedies, look into what it takes to be a veterinarian. Average annual salary: $19,220 (animal behaviorist) 6. Route setter . Cool factor: These folks are like modern-day trailblazers; they change the routes in various settings, such as indoor climbing walls, foot trails and running races. Interested in running but not so much in setting the routes? Look for careers in nonprofits and fundraising, which often help put on races. Average annual salary: Unknown . 7. Shoe designer . Cool factor: Shoes are a fetish for millions of men and women around the world -- to be the mastermind behind the look of the cutest/hippest/most unique shoes on the market would be a pretty sweet gig. Not interested in design but love shoes? Try your hand in shoe manufacturing or repair. Average annual salary: $67,247 . 8. Storm chaser . Cool factor: Remember the movie "Twister"? Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton tempt Mother Nature by chasing life-threatening storms through Oklahoma. While storm chasers aim to track tornados, they also study cloud formations and severe thunderstorms, too. Keep in mind that storm chasing can be very dangerous; if you'd like to pursue storms in a safe environment, check out careers in weather forecasting and meteorology. Average annual salary: $60,968 . 9. Video game tester . Cool factor: For eight hours a day, five days a week, all these folks do is play video games. They repeat levels, games and characters, looking for any bugs and/or glitches in the software. If you're not interested in playing the games, look into designing, developing or programming them instead. Average annual salary: $44,600 . 10. Voice actor . Cool factor: Everyone knew Don LaFontaine, the infamous voice behind thousands of movie trailers, TV advertisements and network promotions. Voice actors also loan their chops to movies and cartoons. Wouldn't it be neat to have your voice be familiar to the whole world? If you'd like a less publicized career in television, look to work behind the scenes in advertising. Average annual salary: $47,000. If you have a highly recognizable voice, you'll probably get paid more. *Salaries according to CBSalary.com . Copyright CareerBuilder.com 2009. All rights reserved. The information contained in this article may not be published, broadcast or otherwise distributed without the prior written authority . | Julian Jones' job is essentially to baby-sit all-star athletes .
Food critics get paid to eat gourmet food and drink expensive alcohol .
When a veterinarian can't diagnose an animal, a pet psychologist is called .
Video game testers repeat levels, games and characters, looking for any bugs . |
221,332 | aa8028cadfcc3794eec9afb00565fb37b227a3bb | (CNN) -- This November, the Obama administration is expected to move forward with long overdue safeguards that would finally protect our families from mercury pollution. As the mother of four children, I can only say it's about time. The EPA was first charged with limiting toxic air pollutants such as mercury during the Bush administration -- the first Bush administration. I don't know how many children have been exposed to dangerous levels of this neurotoxin during the subsequent 20-plus years of foot-dragging, but I do know that my eldest daughter was one of them. When Sophie was 4 years old, we discovered that her mercury levels were elevated. We were already concerned because her learning had leveled off and in some notable ways even backslid. But it was only by chance that we realized she was being poisoned. Because we lived in an old house with lead paint, we had been following our pediatrician's advice to have our children tested regularly for lead and other heavy metals. Only because of this were we lucky enough to learn about our daughter's elevated mercury levels before it was too late. How does a healthy, well-nourished child get mercury poisoning in her own home? By far the most common exposure to mercury comes from eating contaminated fish. Sophie adored tuna fish sandwiches and ate one or two a week. That was a small amount but enough to cause her harm. When, on a doctor's advice, we took fish out of her diet, her mercury levels declined. We're thankful that our daughter suffered no permanent damage, but thousands of other parents are not so fortunate. Exposure to mercury in utero can contribute to birth defects, including neurological and developmental disorders, learning disabilities, delayed onset of walking and talking, and cerebral palsy. The EPA estimates that as many as one in 12 American women of child-bearing age have enough mercury in their bodies to put a baby at risk. That means that every year more than 300,000 babies could be born at risk of serious disabilities caused by mercury poisoning. Mercury is one of the most potent of the many toxic heavy metals that come from the emissions of coal-fired power plants. If just one-seventieth of a teaspoon enters a lake every year, it is enough to raise mercury levels in the fish. And yet the EPA reported in 2005 that coal-fired power plants, the largest domestic source of unregulated mercury emissions in the United States, pumped 48 tons of this toxin into the atmosphere each year. The technology to filter mercury and other toxic heavy metals from power-plant smokestacks is widely available and, in fact, some plants already have it in place. Under the EPA's proposed new protections, all plants would have to upgrade, and mercury emissions would be reduced by more than 90% (along with cancer-causing metals such as arsenic, chromium and nickel). It would prevent hundreds of thousands of illnesses and up to 17,000 premature deaths each year. Why has it taken more than 20 years to do something? Because corporate polluters don't want to pay up to clean up, even though thousands of Americans pay dearly every year as a consequence. Worse, their economic arguments are baseless. By cleaning up the coal plants, the new EPA protections will actually result in a net gain for the U.S. economy. Heart disease, learning disabilities and premature deaths are expensive, too. No parent should have to discover, as I did, that she is feeding her child poison in the sandwiches she packs in her lunchbox. After more than two decades, it's time to stop dumping poison into the atmosphere and pretending there are no consequences. The opinions in this commentary are solely those of Ayelet Waldman. | Ayelet Waldman: EPA was supposed to limit toxic pollutants like mercury 20 years ago .
Waldman's daughter had high levels of mercury, a neurotoxin, in her blood .
Waldman: Mercury contributes to birth defects, nerve disorders, learning disablilites .
It's time to seriously limit mercury emissions that poison environment, she writes . |
191,481 | 83f6467682d366cac9ac7aba0295c920c7b00c9c | By . Mark Duell . Last updated at 10:07 PM on 9th August 2011 . One woman is the subject of public hatred after being acquitted of her daughter's murder - and the other is just trying to promote a new book. But L. Concetta Graves, of Orlando, Florida, is having a torrid time of late because she keeps being mistaken on the street for Casey Anthony. Ms Graves looks similar to acquitted murder suspect Anthony, 25, and was even involved in attack by three men before scaring them away with a gun. Scroll down for video . Mistaken: L. Concetta Graves, left, of Orlando, Florida, keeps being mistaken on the street for Casey Anthony, pictured right with her lawyer Jose Baez . She is an author and actually thought at first the extra attention she was receiving was from fans of a new book she published with her brother. Anthony was released from jail last month after her acquittal on a murder charge connected to her two-year-old daughter Caylee's death in 2008. Although their faces certainly look different, the comparisons have come when Ms Graves goes out wearing a baseball hat and sunglasses. ‘At the post office, some guy flung the door open real violently and fast and said: 'Oh my God, is that Casey Anthony?”’ Ms Graves told NBC. Troubles: Ms Graves, left, looks similar to acquitted murder suspect Anthony, 25, right, and was even beaten up by three men before scaring them away with a gun . But the worst moment for Ms Graves while she was walking with her brother, D.M. Blade, and three men jumped out of a truck. Tuesday would have been the sixth birthday of Caylee Anthony. There will be a memorial event near where her body was found in 2008, reported People magazine. Balloons and butterflies will be released in memory of the toddler. They shouted ‘baby killer’ at them, Mr Blade was pushed to the ground by one of the men and he suffered two black eyes in the attack. ‘I was scared to death,’ Ms Graves told NBC. ‘I don't know if they had guns. I didn't know what was going to happen, if someone was going to stab him.’ But because she had a gun she was able to scare them off. Now friends are saying she should either stay at home or dye her hair. Authors: The worst moment for Ms Graves, right, was while she was walking with her brother, D.M. Blade, left, and three men jumped out of a truck . She has decided to start wearing her hair down instead and ‘dressing a little differently’ to avoid any more unfortunate comparisons. 'At the post office, some guy flung the door open real violently and fast and said: 'Oh my God, is that Casey Anthony?"' L. Concetta Graves . Messages of support have been posted on her Facebook wall. 'Glad to see you are keeping your head up! Stay positive and don't stop having fun,' Jason Parsons wrote. 'You have an army of support!' The book the siblings authored together is called ‘Elrey Rockford and the Jaxius Prophecy’ and is available on Amazon for $19.99. Elsewhere Casey . Anthony, 43, of Pennsylvania, has been getting bombarded by stalkers mixing . him up with the acquitted suspect Anthony. Watch video here . Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy . | L. Concetta Graves mistaken for Anthony in Orlando .
Problems happen when she wears hat and sunglasses .
Claims she scared away three attackers with a gun .
Today would have been Caylee's sixth birthday . |
72,980 | cef30d0ab1b3c6bcd082dffc4dbfbe952d82961d | Schalke have poked fun at fierce local rivals Borussia Dortmund after Jurgen Klopp’s side slumped to the bottom of the Bundesliga at the weekend. Schalke’s official Twitter account posted a mock-up league table with the club in sixth place and Dortmund languishing down in 18th before quickly deleting it. League leaders Bayern Munich are the only other side to feature in the table with caption: "Keep scrolling. You'll see them soon #MindTheGap," to rub salt into Dortmund's wounds. Borussia Dortmund manager Jurgen Klopp comforts his Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang after their latest loss . Schalke's official Twitter account posted this tweet mocking the league position of rivals Borussia Dortmund . The Ruhr derby is one of the fiercest rivalries in European football, first played back in 1925, and Schalke are clearly enjoying their bragging rights having won the most recent clash 2-1 in the Bundesliga back in September. As for Dortmund, they have amassed only 11 points from 13 games. Even their ardent fans, who have stuck by the team throughout this troubled season, began to jeer their players after the Eintracht Frankfurt defeat. On Sunday evening, Borussia Dortmund director of sport Michael Zorc conceded the club are 'in the middle of a relegation fight', as Klopp desperately needs to turn around his side’s fortunes, and very quickly. Ex-Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo is now in charge at Bundesliga side Schalke . Dortmund's team walks to their fans after losing their latest Bundesliga match against Eintracht Frankfurt . Dortmund must pull themselves from the relegation zone in Germany as going down would be disastrous . | Borussia Dortmund are bottom of the Bundesliga after a dismal run .
Jurgen Klopps side lost 2-0 against Eintracht Frankfurt on Sunday .
Ruhr rivals Schalke post tweet mocking their position before deleting it .
Dortmund won the league in 2012, and were runners up in 2013 and 2014 . |
265,439 | e3c8d065979d2223309c224104a7e212d613033d | NEW YORK (CNN) -- The Federal Reserve banks need to better prevent conflicts of interest, according to a new government report that highlights transparency issues with financial executives serving on the banks' boards. All 12 reserve banks should more "clearly document the roles and responsibilities of the (board) directors," according to a Government Accountability Office (GAO) audit released Wednesday. The report focuses on scenarios in which executives pose apparent conflicts of interest by serving on boards that regulate financial houses where they also have business relationships. An example, it notes, occurred when then-chairman of the New York Fed's board of directors Stephen Friedman owned shares in the investment firm Goldman Sachs, but in September 2008 provided it and other banks billions of dollars in federal funding in response to the unfolding financial crisis. Friedman was granted a waiver by the Federal Reserve Board in January 2009, the report said. But the board was unaware that he had purchased additional shares in Goldman Sachs through an automatic stock purchase program. The former chairman, who resigned in May 2009, could not be immediately reached for comment. The GAO, meanwhile, said that "without more public disclosure of governance arrangements, such as board of director bylaws and director eligibility and ethics policies, there may be continued concerns about Reserve Bank governance and the integrity of the Federal Reserve System." It did not identify actual conflicts of interest. However, it indicated the appearance of a conflict could cast broader concerns about the health of the overall reserve bank system. The GAO is the investigative arm of Congress charged with examining matters relating to the receipt and payment of public funds. Sen. Bernard Sanders, a Vermont Independent, said the agency's findings point to "exactly the kind of outrageous behavior by the big banks and Wall Street that is infuriating so many Americans." "The most powerful entity in the United States is riddled with conflicts of interest," he said in a written statement. Despite government regulatory efforts, Wednesday's audit says directors with affiliations and business relationships with banks "continue to pose reputational risks to the Federal Reserve System." The report also called for reserve boards to boost diversity levels by broadening their candidate pool. "Specifically, in 2010 Reserve Bank directors included 78 white men, 15 white women, 12 minority men, and 3 minority women," it noted. The Federal Reserve Board said in a response included in the report that the recommendations "all have merit" and it "will work to implement them." The audit was conducted as a result of a mandate by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, an 848-page bill meant to root out causes of the 2008 financial crisis. | A government audit shows apparent conflicts of interest on Federal Reserve banks boards .
The banks should more "clearly document the roles" of directors, the report says .
The report also criticizes the boards' lack of diversity . |
281,088 | f82113372a3246ec926d91d53887b526660e3cb1 | Spanish newspapers have been reacting to the news that Fernando Torres is set to return to his boyhood club Atletico Madrid. The 27-year-old is currently on a two-year loan at AC Milan from Chelsea, but has failed to impress so far and the deal is set to be cut short so he can return to Spain. Alessio Cerci, meanwhile, is preparing to move in the opposite direction. Front page of Spanish newspaper Marca reacting to the news that Fernando Torres is set for a return to his boyhood club Atletico Madrid after leaving there in 2007 to join Liverpool . Spanish paper Marca is one of the papers to have led their post-Christmas news with Torres, referring to him as 'el delantero, y symbolo rojiblanco', which translates as 'Atletico symbol and striker'. Torres joined Milan in the summer as he looked to rebuild his career following a largely unsuccessful few years at Chelsea, but failed to impress at the San Siro with just a single goal in 10 appearances. Spanish paper AS also delivers the news that Torres is set to return to Atletico Madrid . Elsewhere, fellow Spanish paper AS has also reported that Torres is set for the move, with a deal that will run until the summer of 2016. The 30-year-old first left Atletico to join Liverpool in 2007, and was one of the best strikers in the Premier League and Europe as he scored 81 goals in 142 games in all competitions. A record £50million move to Chelsea followed in January 2011, but he struggled to show the same form at Stamford Bridge as he did on Merseyside and, following the arrival of Diego Costa in the summer, was deemed surplus to requirements. | Fernando Torres set to rejoin Atletico Madrid on 18-month deal .
30-year-old is currently on two-year loan from Chelsea and AC Milan .
But he has failed to impress at the San Siro since signing in the summer .
Set to return to his boyhood club after leaving them for Liverpool in 2007 . |
248,374 | cd5ce08c4e05f15f1cc0ddcd212fa8bf21423970 | Two Americans stole adult and infant body parts from a museum inside a Bangkok hospital and tried to ship them to Las Vegas, Thai police say. The two men, identified as Ryan Edward McPherson and Daniel Jamon Tanner, told police they wanted to surprise their friends back home, Royal Thai Police Deputy Commissioner Gen. Ruangsak Jritake said. It was not immediately clear whether McPherson or Tanner had attorneys. A delivery company intervened in the shipment. On Saturday, a DHL office in Thailand's Pathum Thani province called police after workers there were scanning shipments and discovered the body parts inside three packages. The packages contained five acrylic plastic boxes, Jritake said. One box contained an infant's head; another contained a baby's left foot, which was sliced into three pieces, the police official said. The other acrylic boxes contained an adult heart and adult skin. "We have talked with an American who was trying to send the parcels to the USA, but we could not press any charges on him and we are not quite sure which laws we can apply to him." Bang Pongpang police chief Col. Adisorn Semsawat said over the weekend. At the time, police said the American told them he found the infant body parts at a night flea market and that he had paid about $100 for them -- though he could not remember where the market was located. But on Monday, authorities revealed more details on the case. All the body parts were stolen from the Siriraj Medical Museum within Siriraj Hospital, the largest hospital in Thailand, Jritake said. The body parts were taken from the forensic medicine museum and anatomical museum. Police said closed-circuit video from the hospital showed two men identified as McPherson and Tanner. A Thai criminal court approved arrest warrants for the two men on charges of theft from a government hospital, police said. If convicted, McPherson and Tanner could face up to seven years in prison or a fine of up to 500,000 Thai baht ($15,200). But the Americans have already left Thailand for Cambodia. Thai officials may have to seek the two men's extradition. Thai police say they've been in touch with the U.S. Embassy. Not the first time . The bizarre discovery is not the first time infant remains have been found in Thailand. In 2010, more than 2,000 illegally aborted fetuses were recovered at a Buddhist temple in Bangkok. Infant body parts can be bought on the Thai black market. Some Thais practice black magic and believe that supernatural power comes from infant body parts, if the rites are performed by monks or sorcerers. They believe that having the items provides protection and business success and can ward off bad luck. Police say in 2010, the smell of decay led investigators to the Phai-nguern Chotinaram temple in central Bangkok, where they discovered more than 2,000 illegally aborted fetuses. Three people were arrested, including two morticians who were charged with hiding bodies. According to the hospital museum website, for 120 years "Siriraj Hospital has collectively gathered an enormous compilation of medical equipments and tools, anatomical and clinical specimens including important artifacts and archives relating to the history of medicine in Thailand." | If convicted, the two Americans could face 7 years in prison or be fined $15,200 .
The packages included an infant's head, a sliced foot and an adult heart .
Thai police: Two Americans said they wanted to surprise their friends back home .
Officials: The body parts were stolen from a hospital; video shows the two Americans . |
129,700 | 33aafd1585e3f6ca216378c61a8e42ab14844faf | By . Ap Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 11:49 EST, 5 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:43 EST, 6 December 2013 . One of Michelle Obama's favorite colors has been chosen by Pantone Inc. as the color of the year for 2014. Following this year's pick of emerald green, the purple hue of an orchid, officially known as Radiant Orchid, is set to pop up in everything from fashion and beauty to home design and other consumer products. 'It's a little different, it's a little off the beaten path, and it's not a primary color,' said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. One of First Lady Michelle Obama's favorite colors, a radiant jewel-toned purple, has been chosen by Pantone Inc. as the color of the year for 2014 . 'It's an invitation to innovation. The purple family offers (an) opportunity to do creative things,' she added. The First Lady is already well versed in the power of purple. From her black tie gowns to her shift dresses and skirt suits, Mrs Obama has made no secret of her love for jewel-toned color. 'People associate purple with creativity and originality -- and those are very valued today,' explains Ms Eisemen. Pantone sets color standards for commercial use by design industries. Twice a year the company hosts, in a European capital, a two-day meeting of representatives from various nations' color standards groups to select a color of the year. Following this year's pick of emerald green, the purple hue of an orchid, officially known as Radiant Orchid, is set to pop up in everything from fashion and beauty to home design and other consumer products . The First Lady is already well versed in the power of purple. From her shift dresses to her back tie gowns and skirt suits, Mrs Obama has made no secret of her love for jewel-toned color . 'It's a little different, it's a little . off the beaten path, and it's not a primary color,' said Leatrice . Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute (pictured: Michelle Obama in an Roksanda Ilincic belted dress) The result is published in Pantone View, an index that fashion designers, florists, interior designers and many other consumer-oriented brands use to help guide their planning for future products. Ms Eiseman expects people will take to it quickly because it is a flattering color for many skin tones and complementary neutral colors, but it will also look like something people haven't seen in a while. 'This is an opportunity to look at what you've already got in your closet and add to it. It will feel like the right amount of change,' she said. The runways and red carpet have already had a few orchid moments; even menswear has seen hints of it, with Salvatore Ferragamo and Ermengildo Zegna incorporating it into ties and trims. 'It's very relevant for spring, but I . think even going into next fall it can be very pretty,' said Colleen . Sherin, senior fashion director of upscale department store Saks Fifth . Avenue. The runways and red carpet have already had a few orchid moments; even menswear has seen hints of it, with Salvatore Ferragamo and Ermengildo Zegna incorporating it into ties and trims . 'It's very relevant for spring, but I . think even going into next fall it can be very pretty,' said Colleen . Sherin, senior fashion director of upscale department store Saks Fifth . Avenue . 'In ready-to-wear, it mixes with other tones like chocolate browns, and burgundy or Bordeaux makes for a deeper, richer tonal story.' Ms Sherin has invested the retailer's resources in orchid, and an orchid-colored Gucci handbag has already been photographed for a Saks ad. It will translate just as well into lip color and eye shadow, and in home furnishings, she said. 'I would love it in velvet. It would look so luxurious.' It is also a paint color and could be used in everything from upholstery to kitchenware and even menu choices. 'We're seeing more of these infused desserts and cocktails, and I can see them embellished with orchid flowers.' Ms Eiseman said the sign of success in her world is when she sees a color on a coffee maker, and one in orchid is already in the works. | The chosen color, Radiant Orchid, is set to pop up in everything from fashion and beauty to home design and other consumer products . |
219,565 | a8374eaeda87ccc6fc0ce9fc356f946fa525904f | She might be a member of one of Europe's leading royal dynasties but Queen Letizia of Spain is happy to forgo most of the trappings. The 42-year-old arrived for a cancer charity event this morning on foot, having been dropped off in a nearby car park alone and without security guards. Despite the lack of frills, she was every inch the style queen in her Tyrian purple coat and fashionable aviator sunglasses. Low key: Queen Letizia arrives for a meeting held by the Spanish Association Against Cancer in Madrid . Carrying a black briefcase, the royal looked businesslike as she made her way into the meeting held by the Spanish Association Against Cancer, a charity of which she is patron. Her low key approach is yet another sign of the increasingly Scandinavian style of the Spanish monarchy, which has so far seen Felipe prioritise being seen as 'normal' over the lavish lifestyle enjoyed by his father King Juan-Carlos. His latest move came last Thursday, when he banned senior royals, including himself, his two daughters and Letizia, from accepting expensive gifts. The new rules, which also apply to Juan-Carlos and his wife Queen Sofia, come into effect on New Year's Day and are intended to avoid 'compromising the dignity of the institution'. Felipe's move comes after his father's reign was blighted by accusations of extravagance - not helped by his habit of accepting gifts that included an €18m (£14m) yacht. Alone: She was dropped off in a nearby car park ahead of the event and arrived without a security detail . Businesslike: She teamed her Tyrian purple coat with a pair of fashionable aviator sunglasses . New look: Husband King Felipe recently banned any member of the Spanish royal family from accepting gifts . Fortuna, which Juan-Carlos was forced to stop using last year in a nod to austerity, became a regular plaything of the Spanish royals, who used it during summer holidays in Mallorca. Felipe's new-look Spanish monarchy is closer in style to the Scandinavian system, which sees members of the royal family live relatively low key lifestyles. As part of his drive to modernise the institution, the 46-year-old royal also banned members of his family from working in the private sector and insisted that all must behave in an 'exemplary manner' likely to 'earn citizens' appreciation, respect and trust.' Despite boasting fewer staff and less money than their British and Spanish counterparts, the Norwegian, Danish and Swedish monarchs and their families do accept gifts, although like the British royals, most have to be declared. Transformation: King Felipe is attempting to remodel the Spanish royal family along Scandinavian lines . Change: His move comes after King Juan-Carlos' reign was blighted by accusations of extravagance . In the case of the UK royal family, gifts either become part of the Royal Collection and are displayed during the summer exhibition season or are donated to the relevant museum or institution. Although the Queen is yet to benefit from a free flight or a yacht like Juan-Carlos, she has received a number of unusual gifts on state visits, including a collection of shells, a set of lacrosse sticks, sunglasses, a pair of sandals, pineapples, eggs, a box of snail shells, a grove of maple trees, a dozen tins of of tuna and 7kg of prawns. The Queen has also been given a number of horses, among them her favourite mount, Burmese, and a series of exotic animals, including a canary, jaguars, sloths and an elephant called Jumbo, all of which were given to London Zoo. | Letizia, 42, was attending an event on behalf of a Spanish cancer charity .
Was dropped off in a car park around the corner without security .
Low key style characteristic of husband Felipe's new-look monarchy .
Last week, banned royal family members from accepting lavish gifts .
King Juan-Carlos was given a £14m yacht called Fortuna in 2000 . |
230,479 | b674767c5ba9810289b04b5e502cd430e9978f06 | By . Hugo Gye, Ryan Kisiel and Emily Davies . PUBLISHED: . 01:14 EST, 27 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 06:36 EST, 27 August 2013 . The culling of badgers in the countryside to prevent the spread of bovine tuberculosis has begun, the National Farmers' Union said this morning. Militant hunt saboteurs have vowed to disrupt the cull by infiltrating animal rights groups planning peaceful protests. Police have increased patrols in the countryside fearing violent clashes between farmers and hardcore opponents following the start of the cull. The Environment Secretary today insisted that the cull was necessary for the health of badgers as well as livestock, saying that he was concerned for the animals' welfare as he used to have pet badgers - but added that it could take 25 years before the work of the cull is completed . Outrage: A protester expresses her opposition to the badger cull at a vigil in Minehead, Somerset . Plans: Protesters crowd around a map as they embark on a walk around the proposed cull zone . In a letter to farmers today, NFU . president Peter Kendall revealed that culling had already begun in west . Gloucestershire and west Somerset. He . said that the move, which will see around 5,000 badgers killed over the . next six weeks in two pilot schemes, was 'an important step not just . for cattle farmers but for the whole farming industry'. He . continued: 'We cannot go on culling tens of thousands of cattle every . year because of TB while knowing the disease exists in wildlife . uncontrolled. 'Badger . control remains a controversial subject and we understand that some . people will never agree with controlling badgers in this way. 'I . am confident however that through the combined efforts of farmers, the . NFU and government over the last year to illustrate the impact TB has on . farms, and the scientific basis for badger control, more people than . ever recognise the need to address the disease in badgers.' Arrest: Protester Jay Tiernan is arrested while trying to gain access to a Defra compound in Gloucestershire . More than 500 protesters are expected . at the sites of the cull, with even some of those planning to . demonstrate peacefully saying they are prepared to run from footpaths . into the line of fire of the farmers culling the badgers to force them . to put down their arms. But . Mr Kendall insisted: 'I hope that when time shows that these culls have . reduced TB in cattle - just as has happened in Ireland - that even more . people will understand that while sad, these culls are absolutely . necessary. 'I hope that you . will continue to show support for those farmers who are facing the . nightmare of TB on farm and especially for those who are in the culling . areas.' The cull is an attempt to tackle bovine . TB which is transmitted by badgers and has led to the death of 305,000 . cattle in the UK over the past decade. 'I've . actually had pet badgers as a child, and I want to see healthy . badgers,' Environment Secretary Owen Paterson told Sky News. 'If . we had a workable vaccine, we would use it. A badger vaccine would have . no effect on the high proportion of sick badgers in TB hotspots who . would continue to spread the disease. 'We . are working on new badger and cattle vaccines but they are years away . from being ready and we cannot afford to wait while TB gets worse.' Protest: A vigil was held in Minehead, Somerset last night to demonstrate against the badger cull . Vigil: Somerset Badger Patrol claimed that more than 200 people attended the event hours before the start of the cull . He added: 'The intention is to roll out this policy in other areas next year subject to these two culls proving effective, efficient and humane. My target is that the UK should be TB free in 25 years. 'We know that, despite the strict controls we already have in place, we won't get on top of this terrible disease until we start dealing with the infection in badgers as well as in cattle. That's the clear lesson from Australia, New Zealand, the Republic of Ireland and the USA. 'That is why these pilot culls are so important. We have to use every tool in the box because TB is so difficult to eradicate and it is spreading rapidly.' Labour claimed the coalition had cut spending and research on vaccines for badgers and cattle, and said the Environment Department's official assessment of the pilot culls had revealed it would cost £4million to police the two schemes. Shadow environment secretary Mary Creagh said: 'The Government's divisive badger cull will cost more than it saves and will spread bovine TB in the short term as badgers are disturbed by shooting. 'We need a science-led policy to manage cattle movements better and a vaccine to tackle TB in cattle. Ministers should listen to the scientists and drop this cull which is bad for farmers, bad for taxpayers and bad for wildlife.' March: Animal rights activists paraded in the area where the cull was due to take place in a last-minute protest . Anger: Passionate protesters have vowed to block the cull from going ahead this week . Police have said militant campaigners . have infiltrated local campsites and have been spotted patrolling . farmers’ fields wearing balaclavas at night. One group, Bristol Hunt . Saboteurs, said it would trespass on to sites with large horns to scare . the badgers away and remove bait left by farmers. Last night Somerset Badger Patrol held a vigil event in Minehead against the cull. A . statement on its Facebook page after the event said: 'Over 200 people . tonight at the procession, thank you all so much for coming... We fight . on, knowing that we are right helps.' It comes as a protester, named as Jay Tiernan, was arrested yesterday . for allegedly trying to break in to a Department for Environment, Food . and Rural Affairs site in Stroud, Gloucestershire. Joe . Mossman, of Bristol Hunt Saboteurs, said ‘extensive research’ had been . carried out to find out where the badgers’ setts are and where peanut . bait had been laid by farmers. He . added: ‘The intention is to just turn up in large numbers, making lots . of noise, getting in the way and having a massive presence. We will try . to locate the shooters, which will involve trespass if necessary. Protest: The sign yesterday outside an anti-cull camp near Watchet in Somerset . Controlling disease: 5,000 badgers could be killed in two trials culls . ‘Spoiling bait is one of the most effective ways you can sabotage the cull, because if the bait’s not there the badgers won’t be drawn away.’ Dozens of people have also set up a camp, dubbed Camp Badger, on the outskirts of the sleepy harbour town of Watchet, Somerset. Mostly members of campaign group Stop The Cull, they intend to carry out nocturnal patrols looking to document evidence of wounded badgers. Protest: Animal rights groups say badgers should be vaccinated instead of culled . Carla Kidd, 39, a gardener from Penzance, Cornwall, said: ‘If it came down to it and I was in the killing zone, then yes, I would run in front to try and stop the shooting. That would be my natural reaction.‘It’s your natural instinct to protect an animal as if it was a pet or your own child.' 'Our intention is to carry out peaceful protest while on patrol at night and stick to the footpaths, but I couldn’t say that I’d stick to that if I saw culling. Our main task is about raising awareness.’ Miss Kidd added that protest groups had been buoyed by recent anti-fracking protests in Balcombe, West Sussex, when hundreds of activists were able to stop exploratory drilling temporarily. The past 15 years has seen a boom in bovine TB which is spread to cattle when badgers urinate on grass which is eaten by cows. The trial scheme is due to continue every year for the next four years, and is predicted to cut bovine TB by 16 per cent. Two . companies have been given the licence to carry out the culling in the . counties, but both Defra and Natural England, the public body . responsible for the operation, have kept their identities a secret in . case activists target them directly. Last . week the National Farmers Union was granted an injunction in the High . Court barring anti-cull activists from approaching farmers’ homes, . business premises and cull sites. Animal . rights groups, which include support from guitarist Brian May and . actress Dame Judi Dench, say the authorities should vaccinate badgers . instead. | Badger culls have now started in West Gloucestershire and West Somerset .
Farmers say it is necessary to stop spread of bovine tuberculosis .
Police are expecting violent clashes between farmers and campaigners .
Bovine TB must be controlled with 'every tool in the box', says minister .
Environment Secretary says he 'used to have pet badgers' but warns that it will take 25 years to eradicate spread of disease .
Protester arrested while 'trying to break in to Government compound' |
42,767 | 7899727e2e1cd93aa92ea149e097a019f6a6f964 | By . Emma Glanfield . Two people have died in a house fire following a possible gas explosion in Leeds. One man was found dead at the scene after the blaze broke out at a property in the Garforth area of the city at around 6.30pm. Another man was taken to hospital with serious burns and was described as being in a ‘critical condition’. However, police confirmed he later died from his injuries. Large flames and thick, black plumes of smoke could be seen pouring from the property in Garforth, Leeds, at the height of the blaze at around 6.30pm . Two people died after fire tore through the semi-detached house in Garforth, Leeds, this evening . Forensic experts were working at the property in Fairfield Court, Garforth, Leeds, tonight to establish the circumstances surrounding the blaze which killed two people . Officers are investigating the cause of the blaze and are looking into whether it was sparked by a possible gas explosion. The fire service said the initial call to the emergency services, believed to have been made by a neighbour, reported a fire and ‘explosion’ at the two-storey semi-detached property in Farfield Court – where houses cost an average of £200,000. Northern Gas Networks confirmed emergency gas engineers were sent to the scene and it is understood the gas supply in the area has been isolated. A spokesman said: ‘As the area’s gas emergency service our engineers are in attendance. ‘We are on hand to support the emergency services as required.’ More than 30 firefighters from across the Leeds area were sent to tackle the early evening blaze. At the height of the fire, large flames and thick, black plumes of smoke could be seen from several hundred yards away as the fire service battled to get the burning property under control. Firefighters were called to the scene of a house fire in Garforth, Leeds, at around 6.30pm . Officers are investigating the cause of the blaze and are looking into whether it was sparked by a possible gas explosion . Detective Chief Inspector Paul Fountain, of West Yorkshire Police¿s Protective Services Department, said investigations were underway into the cause of the blaze . Residents have been evacuated from their homes in the quiet street and the property remains cordoned off this evening as police and firefighters work to investigate the cause of the blaze. A spokesman for West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service said the fire had ‘gutted and destroyed’ the house and had left it ‘structurally unsound’. However, firefighters managed to contain the blaze to the property and stopped it from spreading to any neighbouring properties. Detective Chief Inspector Paul Fountain, of West Yorkshire Police’s Protective Services Department, said investigations were underway to establish the cause of the blaze. Although the cause of the fire is not yet known Northern Gas Networks confirmed emergency gas engineers were called to the scene . A police investigation is underway to establish the cause of the house fire which killed two people . The property in Garforth, Leeds, remains cordoned off this evening and police and firefighters are working at the scene to investigate the cause of the blaze . He said: ‘We are working closely with the fire service to establish the cause of this incident, which has left two people dead. ‘Enquiries are still at a very early stage, but I would ask anyone with any information to contact 101.’ A fire service spokesman confirmed the cause had ‘not yet been determined’. | Two people have died after a blaze broke out in the Garforth area at 6.30pm .
One person found dead at scene while a second was in a 'critical' condition .
Man was taken to hospital with serious burns but later died of his injuries .
Initial call to emergency services reported 'fire and explosion' at house .
Police investigation is underway to establish the cause of the blaze .
Northern Gas Networks said emergency engineers were sent to the scene . |
67,489 | bf78c9702357164e31130c7284a41544d11975e3 | Concerns about even remote chances of Ebola exposure rippled Friday from a U.S. airline to a cruise ship off Belize, with Frontier contacting hundreds who flew with an infected nurse and Carnival quarantining a health worker only tangentially linked to an Ebola patient's care. The airline's move relates to Amber Vinson, a Dallas nurse who treated an Ebola patient and then was diagnosed with the virus this week after flying round trip between Dallas and Cleveland. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention official said Thursday she could have had symptoms earlier than believed -- a period possibly covering her two flights on Frontier Airlines. Frontier spokesman Todd Lehmacher said that, by early Friday evening, airline officials had contacted as many as 800 passengers, including those on Vinson's October 10 flight to Cleveland, her October 13 return flight to Dallas and five other trips taken by the latter plane before it was taken out of service. The CDC, even as it said these passengers have an extremely low chance of getting Ebola, is reaching out to those on Vinson's flights. Vinson is one of two nurses at Dallas' Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital who became ill with Ebola while treating Thomas Eric Duncan, a Liberian man who was the first person diagnosed with Ebola in the United States and died October 8. She was hospitalized Tuesday, one day after her return flight from Ohio, where she was visiting family and planning her wedding. Vinson was moved Wednesday to Atlanta's Emory University Hospital. The other nurse, Nina Pham, is being treated at a National Institutes of Health facility in Maryland. Authorities initially said Vinson had a slightly elevated temperature of 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit (37.5 Celsius), which was below the fever threshold for Ebola, but didn't show any Ebola symptoms on her Monday flight. This is significant because a person isn't contagious with Ebola, which spreads through the transmission of bodily fluids, until he or she has symptoms of the disease. Her uncle, Lawrence Vinson, said Thursday night his niece didn't feel sick until the morning after her return to Dallas. And the CDC's Dr. Chris Braden said Friday that Vinson didn't have classic Ebola symptoms like a sore throat, fever or muscle aches on her trip. But Braden said that she may have started feeling off on October 11, and investigators couldn't rule out her illness starting the previous day -- when she flew from Texas to Ohio. "She rested for a long time on some days; she said she felt funny," he said of Vinson's state during her trip. "Those types of things, but nothing specific." Ebola in U.S.: Who has it, who doesn't, who might . Belize refuses to let possible Ebola case disembark . The Frontier passengers and crew members aren't the only ones to find themselves thrust into the Ebola story. So, too, are 16 people being monitored in northeast Ohio -- including two employees at a bridal store Vinson visited -- because they were in the vicinity of or had contact with her, health officials there say. There also are 48 people who had contact with Duncan in Texas before he was hospitalized. Their 21-day monitoring period, during which their movement has been restricted, will end Sunday, at the latest. "Monday afternoon is when we're going to start piecing our lives together," Aaron Yah said. Yah said he is the husband of Youngor Jallah, the daughter of Duncan's fiancee. Yah said he hadn't been able to go to work the past three weeks. Then there are the 76 health care workers involved in Duncan's treatment, one of whom is now in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico and a diplomatic kerfuffle. That Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital worker did not have direct contact with Duncan, but "may have had contact with his specimen," the U.S. State Department said on Friday. It has been 19 days since that may have happened -- two days shy of the maximum 21-day Ebola incubation period. Carnival CEO Arnold Donald told CNN's Richard Quest the woman is a lab supervisor and "has no symptoms whatsoever." Even so, she was isolated on the ship. "We have a lot of experience in the cruise industry," said Donald, citing diseases such as SARS, H1N1 and the flu. "... The CDC has protocols in place; we're following those protocols." The vessel is heading back to Galveston, Texas, with the passenger on board. But that's not what the U.S. government wanted. U.S. State Department spokeswoman Marie Harf said the plan was for the passenger to get on land in Belize, then be flown back to the United States. The Belize government refused to let the passenger leave the ship, given the potential Ebola exposure, despite a plea from U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry to Belize Prime Minister Dean Barrow. "There's a lot of misinformation out there and a lot of fear about this disease, much of it not rooted in actual facts," Harf said, adding that Belize authorities "could have handled (this situation) differently." Belize's government responded Friday night, in a statement in which it also announced it is barring travel from Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea and Nigeria, by saying it "regrets (being) unable to move" the Dallas hospital worker "and her traveling companion" onshore for evacuation from an international airport. "This decision was made out of preponderance of caution for the welfare of the citizens and residents of Belize," said the government, which didn't dispute that the passenger was low risk. Nurse: My neck was exposed . All but a few of the thousands of documented Ebola cases originated in West Africa. Yet it's the two cases that spread here -- Vinson and Pham -- that have caused a fury in Texas, fueling fears and complaints about the procedures meant to keep health care workers safe. One of those affected is Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital nurse Briana Aguirre. She said Thursday that the Dallas hospital didn't give her proper gear while she cared for Pham, even though it was more than a week into the Ebola response there. Aguirre told CNN's Anderson Cooper that the gear she was given -- when she cared for Pham for one day -- included a Tyvex suit, gloves and booties that covered most of her body, but not her neck. "I just told them, 'Why would an area so close to my mouth and my nose ... be exposed?' " Aguirre told Cooper. "And they didn't have an answer." She said she asked supervisors about new gear and was told it had been ordered. But she said the better equipment should have been procured more quickly, and raised concerns for her colleagues who were more involved in Ebola care. "I just know that the (two) nurses that have been infected, they were dealing with the same equipment while they were dealing with so much more than I dealt with personally," she said. "They put their lives on the line and without the proper equipment." She also said that prior to Duncan's arrival in late September, nurses at the hospital had no mandatory Ebola training and only an optional seminar. The hospital has said its professionals wore equipment consistent with CDC guidelines at the time. Dr. Tom Frieden, the CDC's director, admitted at a congressional hearing Wednesday that "some forms of" health care workers' protective equipment "did allow exposure of some parts of the skin." Given such concerns and the fact Pham and Vinson got Ebola at work, the CDC "very soon" will put out updated guidelines on putting on and removing protective gowns, masks, gloves and other gear, agency spokeswoman Barbara Reynolds said Friday. Kerry: 'We have to do more' in West Africa . There have been eight confirmed cases of Ebola in the United States: Duncan, three missionaries, an NBC News freelance cameraman and a World Health Organization doctor infected in Africa, plus the two Texas nurses. The missionaries have all been released from hospitals, while the others are being cared for at Atlanta's Emory University Hospital, Nebraska Medical Center and the National Institutes of Health hospital in suburban Washington. U.S. authorities' response goes well beyond providing medical care. Federal, state and local governments, Customs and Border Protection, various health agencies and even the U.S. military have all played a part in the response so far. Thousands of American troops will help in West Africa, performing duties such as flying in supplies, building field hospitals and helping local authorities with logistics. Several U.S. military officials told CNN on Friday that the Defense Department is considering sending anywhere from a dozen to 100 of its health care professionals to help CDC officials in the region. The Obama administration also will appoint Ron Klain -- former chief of staff to Vice Presidents Joe Biden and Al Gore -- as his "Ebola czar" in an effort to help streamline America's response. There's also a press to recruit other countries to devote their own resources and money to help stem the months-long outbreak in West Africa, where all but a few of the roughly 9,200 reported Ebola cases and 4,555 deaths have occurred, according to the World Health Organization. Kerry, the U.S. secretary of state, expressed disappointment Friday in the international response, saying "we are barely one-third of the way" to hitting the United Nations' $1 billion fundraising goal for the Ebola fight. "We have to do more and we have to do it quickly," Kerry said. "... If we don't adequately address this current outbreak now, then Ebola has the potential to become a scourge like HIV or polio that we will end up fighting -- all of us -- for decades." | Belize: Passenger with Ebola link not let in "out of preponderance of caution"
Kerry calls Belize's leader to ask if cruise passenger can disembark, is rebuffed .
2 Dallas nurses contracted Ebola while caring for patient Thomas Eric Duncan .
Spokesman: Frontier done contacting up to 800 on flights linked to one nurse . |
260,376 | dd2da277469be3089813fbba87daa8b78e449fa8 | By . Emily Allen . Last updated at 10:02 PM on 6th January 2012 . Labour leader Ed Miliband faced embarrassment yesterday after he bungled the task of sending a tweet to mark the death of Bob Holness. A tribute to the Blockbusters host on his Twitter account read: ‘Sad to hear that Bob Holness has died. A generation will remember him fondly from Blackbusters.’ Within minutes, the message was removed and replaced with the correct spelling of the game show. The mistake suggests the Labour leadership might still have Thursday’s race row on its mind, when shadow minister Diane Abbott apologised for tweeting that ‘white people love playing divide and rule’. Just minutes ago the Labour Party leader took to Twitter to pay tribute to Blockbuster host Bob Holness, typing 'Sad to hear that Bob Holness has died. A generation will remember him fondly from Blackbusters' Correction: Ed Miliband hastily corrected his gaffe with the right spelling of Blockbusters . Mr Miliband’s gaffe has sparked a . Twitter storm, with a competition establishing itself on the internet to . come up with other fitting mistakes based on game show titles. Examples included ‘Ready Steady . Cock-up’, ‘Come Diane With Me’, ‘Mock the Weak’, ‘Bland Gate’ and ‘Eight . out of Ten Cuts’. Some concentrated on his thorny relationship with . leadership rival and brother David Miliband, such as ‘Family . Misfortunes’ and simply ‘Big Brother’. Other genuine titles that tweeters . suggested might be appropriate for Mr Miliband included ‘I’m Sorry I . Haven’t A Clue’, ‘Are You Smarter Than A Ten Year Old?’ and ‘The Weakest . Link’. Then there were more suggested spoofs, . including ‘Dancing on Thin Ice’, ‘Mastermindless’, ‘Blackety Black’, . ‘Universally Challenged’, ‘Dole or No Dole’, ‘Wheel of Misfortune’ and . ‘Balls Eye’. At one point yesterday, the competition was the most . popular subject on Twitter. Meanwhile, Miss Abbott became . embroiled in yet another race row yesterday after it emerged she had . accused taxi drivers of racism in another tweet earlier in the week. Ed Miliband quickly deleted his mis-spelled tribute to Bob Holness, who died today at the age of 83 . Who's that ringing? An unrepentant Diane Abbott takes a call and the Labour leader tells her to apologise . Whoops! Ed Miliband's tweet has been trending on Twitter this afternoon . London cabbies attacked her suggestion . that they do not pick up black passengers. She had tweeted: ‘Dubious of . black people claiming they’ve never experienced racism. Ever tried . hailing a taxi I wonder?’ Steve McNamara, a spokesman for the . Licensed Taxi Drivers Association said Miss Abbott was indulging in the . ‘stereotypes of the 1960s’, and that many drivers now were black and . Asian. ‘At worst she is racist and at best she is stupid in making comments like that,’ he said. ‘Either way, she should go.’ Mr Miliband has endured one of his . most difficult weeks as Labour leader – being attacked in print by his . guru and criticised by one of his frontbenchers. On Tuesday, academic Lord Glasman, who . received a peerage on Mr Miliband’s recommendation last year, wrote . that the leader had ‘no strategy, no narrative and little energy’. A day later, a memo written by Labour . spin doctor Tom Baldwin was reduced to claiming that Mr Miliband was not . as bad an Opposition leader as Iain Duncan Smith. And on Thursday, it emerged that the . party’s defence spokesman, Jim Murphy, was distancing himself from . Labour’s attacks on Government spending cuts. He told The Guardian that . Labour’s credibility depended on rejecting ‘shallow and temporary’ populism. Abbott's comment about 'divide and rule' caused a Twitter storm and led to calls for her resignation . The full conversation between Diane Abbott and freelance journalist, Bim Adewunmi following the sentencing of Stephen Lawrence's killers . Miss Abbott responded, saying that her comment had been 'taken out of context' | Comes after he was forced to phone Diane Abbott yesterday to demand she apologise for Twitter comments about white people .
#Blackbusters now third most popular Twitter topic today . |
191,388 | 83d70d54baabcc37f2f92dc854792577c6c977fe | By . Daniel Miller . PUBLISHED: . 14:33 EST, 12 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 03:29 EST, 13 December 2013 . Expensive tastes: Benefits cheat Johura Begum screamed as she was taken down to the cells . A benefits cheat, who claims she did not know her husband owned a £400,000-a-year restaurant, or that her parents owned the property she was claiming housing benefits for, was dragged screaming to jail. Johura Begum, 32, spent £130 a time at the hairdressers despite wearing a burka and splashed out on designer clothes and handbags, while claiming a car accident had made her unfit to work. She said her husband Mohammed Chowdhury was earning as little as £30 a week as a waiter, when in fact he owned the successful Spices Tandoori restaurant in Colchester. Begum was jailed for eight months after being found guilty of fiddling £82,000 and had to forcibly led to the cells by security officers at the Old Bailey. ‘Prison?’ she pleased. ‘I’ve got two children. Please let me speak to my lawyer.’ One of the officers told her: ‘You can speak to him in the cells,’ as she was pulled from the dock. The court heard Begum and her husband Mohammed Chowdhury, 33, began making fraudulent claims in 2007. Begum said she had twice been involved in car accidents when her husband was driving. ‘She claimed a medical condition had made her unfit for work,’ said prosecutor Pauline Thompson. ‘Eight days after that claim was successful, Chowdhury applied for housing benefit and council tax benefit.’ But the couple failed to mention was that her mother owned the property they were living in at Inworth Walk, Colchester, Essex. The fraud continued for five years, even when the couple moved in with her parents at Willis House, in Hale Street, Poplar and Begum claimed for £1,150 in rent. On the dole forms Begum would claim she had nothing in her bank account when she had taken out up to £800 on that very day. ‘There were extensive shopping expeditions including trips to the hairdresser which cost her £130,’ said Ms Thompson. Denial: Begum said she had no idea that her husband Mohammed . Chowdhury owned the successful Spices Tandoori restaurant in Colchester . ‘She had a penchant for visits to the high end shops in Canary Wharf. This was a lady who purchased her groceries in Waitrose. ‘She also spent £400 at Burberry and £200 at Reiss.’ During this time Chowdhury owned the Spices Restaurant in Butt Road, Colchester, but claimed he could only get around 16 hours waiting work a week for which he was paid between £30 and £40. Begum of Poplar admitted seven charges of fraud and fraud by false representation. After her arrest she has continued insist she had no idea her husband ran his own restaurant or that her parents owned a property in Ipswich. The court heard Begum, who has previous convictions for shoplifting, was born in Bangladesh but came to the UK when she was a child. Her father Abdul Mannan has lived here for 40 years but does not speak a word of English. Warrant: Mohammed Chowdhury was due to be sentenced with his wife but failed to turn up at court . Mannan was originally charged with his daughter but the case was dropped by the prosecution. Chowdhury admitted one count of fraud, and five counts of fraud by false representation. He was due to be sentenced with his wife but failed to turn up at court and a warrant is out for his arrest. Begum’s barrister Girish Thanki claimed Chowdhury was a drug addict and a gambler who had married his wife bigamously. He said Chowdhury would not let his wife go out to work - even though she was desperate to get a job. ‘She went along with this fraud. She was in genuine fear,’ Mr Thanki said. He claimed Chowdhury also forced to have an abortion when he did not want to have another child. ‘She accepts there was an element of extravagant spending by her. She was able to buy the fashion items,”Mr Thanki added. ‘She did this because the money was there. ‘She did not know that he was running a restaurant because his life was a complete mystery to her.’ ‘She was a dutiful wife. She knew what was going on but there was very little opportunity to do anything.’ He asked for a suspended sentence but Judge Richard Marks was unimpressed. ‘The amount that this fraud obtained was in the region of £82,000,’ the judge said. ‘The length of time this fraud spanned together with the sums concerned make it a fraud of considerable seriousness. ‘Benefits fraud of this type is unhappily prevalent and costs the taxpayer billions of pounds.’The judge told Begum: ‘It is apparent from the bank evidence that certainly on a number of occasions you enjoyed expensive shopping expeditions including a trip to the hairdresser for £130, shopping at Waitrose, spending £400 on Burberry and a spend of over £200 on Reiss. ‘You knew exactly what you were doing you played a full part on it and you benefited from it.’ | Johura Begum spent £130 a time at the hairdressers despite wearing a burka .
She also splashed out on Burberry clothes and designer handbags .
Claims she had no idea that her husband owned a successful restaurant .
Said she didn't know parents owned home she claimed housing benefit for .
Her husband was due to be sentenced also but failed to turn up at court . |
110,193 | 1a12fed4f546acebe1b5f85a801bc68e9b2834bf | By . Dana Gloger . PUBLISHED: . 18:01 EST, 25 August 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 19:41 EST, 25 August 2012 . They're the jeans every woman’s been waiting for – making you look a dress size skinnier without having to diet. Celebrities including Miranda Kerr and actress Melanie Griffith have already been spotted creating the illusion, thanks to a dark panel down the side of the trousers. Now all British women will get a chance to try out the effect, thanks to a £16 version on sale at Asda. Optical Illusion: Jeans that make you look a dress size smaller, popularised by celebrities like Miranda Kerr (left), are now available to all women thanks to a £16 Asda version, worn (right) by MoS reporter Dana Gloger . The beige Illusion Jeans are designed to slim and elongate legs by drawing the eye down the length of the body. Asda created the jeans, available in sizes 8 to 24, for its George range after a quarter of women aged 16 to 70 said their legs were their main body hang-up. Designer Kausar Mitha said: ‘The panel is slightly wider at the top, around the hip and thigh area, and then tapers down the leg. ‘This is because women’s widest point is at the top of thigh. The panel draws the eye in and then follows the contour of the body, which creates an illusion of slimmer legs and hips. ‘We tried five different-sized panels and this was the one that made the wearer look most svelte. The jeans are also made from stretch cotton, which gives a more toned look. The vertical panel adds an illusion of extra length.’ Hourglass figure: Kate Winslet kicked off the trend for optical-illusion clothing when she wore a white-and-nude dress with black panelling at the Venice Film Festival last September . The trousers are Asda’s latest addition to a line that began with the Illusion dress in April. The frock, which sold out within a week, was followed by the Illusion swimsuit in May. Next month, the retailer will launch a pair of Illusion jeans in blue with a black stripe on the inside thigh, for those who feel this is their problem area. Victoria’s Secret model Miranda Kerr was spotted last month in a pair of beige-and-black trousers similar to the Asda jeans, while actress Melanie Griffith was recently pictured in a black-and-white version. Kate Winslet kicked off the trend for optical-illusion clothing when she wore a white-and-nude dress with black panelling to the premiere of Mildred Pierce at the Venice Film Festival last September. Since then, a host of celebrities – from Kate Moss to actress Liv Tyler – have donned the flattering dresses. Ms Mitha said: ‘We have had lots of customer demands for slimming clothes. Legs are always a focus point that people are not happy with so we wanted to give them a product that made them appear a dress size smaller and gave a smoother silhouette. ‘Lots of celebrities have been wearing illusion clothes recently. We wanted to give our customers something similar but affordable.’ George brand director Fiona Lambert said: ‘Shopping for jeans that look and feel great can be hard for women. George has come to the rescue, using clever design to create something flattering in a staple wardrobe item for every woman.’ However, critics last night labelled the burgeoning market in slimming clothing ‘dangerous’. Image consultant Angela Marshall, owner of Appearance Management, said: ‘There is a lot of pressure to be thin. Even very slim celebrities are wearing clothes designed to make them look even smaller. This sends out a dangerous message. ‘The trend for slimming clothes has gone too far. A lot of designers don’t even know how to make clothes for a curvy shape. ‘I wish the fashion industry would let people be what they are born with. We need to start celebrating healthy bodies.’ | Asda brings out budget version of optical-illusion garment loved by celebs . |
216,719 | a492128aeb317bf6fb39733d6b8b7f191cb6ee0b | The United States dismissed a report that an agreement had been reached between Iran and world powers to begin implementing a deal that requires Tehran to limit its nuclear program. The announcement followed a report in state-run Iranian media that a deal had been reached in negotiations between Tehran and the six world powers, including the United States, to begin implementing the agreement in late January, . "We've made progress in our discussions, and the teams have taken a few outstanding points back to capitals," State Department deputy spokeswoman Marie Harf. "The two sides expect to finalize the implementation plan soon." A senior administration official characterized the talks as ongoing. "We're getting close but just not quite there yet," said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the negotiations. A senior Iranian negotiator, Hamid Baeidinejad, told Press TV that an agreement had been reached following two days of talks in Geneva between Iran and the United States, Britain, France, China, Russia and Germany. The two sides managed to reach an understanding on the implementation of the agreement and now, their views and interpretations (of the Geneva deal) are the same," Baeidinejad told Iranian state-run Press TV. The nuclear deal struck in November between the world powers, collectively known as the P5+1, and Iran calls for Tehran to limit its nuclear activities in return for a relaxation of sanctions that have crippled the Iranian economy. The deal has been widely hailed as a successful interim measure to stave off an unwanted conflict over Tehran's illicit nuclear program. But after initially celebrating a diplomatic success, Iran has reportedly lashed out at the United States for releasing a modified version of the agreement to the American people that does not reflect its interpretation. Just last week, Iranian lawmakers drafted a bill that would force the government to enrich uranium up to 60% if new sanctions are imposed, state media reported Wednesday. The move came less than a week after bipartisan legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate that would authorize new economic sanctions on Iran if it breaches an interim agreement to limit its nuclear program or fails to strike a final accord terminating those ambitions.. The United States and other western powers believe Iran is attempting to build a bomb through uranium enrichment. But Tehran says its nuclear intentions are peaceful. | "We're getting close but just not quite there yet," a U.S. administration official says .
Iranian state-media reported Tehran will implement a nuclear accord in late January .
The accord was reached in November, and requires Iran to limit its nuclear program .
In exchange for limiting its program, some sanctions placed on Iran will be lifted . |
34,361 | 61a6017737928ad3742b89e7e97890a44bde8718 | (CNN) -- After six days of protests that packed the state capitol, Wisconsin's major teachers' union called on members to start returning to work Monday but keep fighting a proposed rollback of union protections for public employees. "To educators whose contracts do not recognize Presidents' Day, we call on them to return to duty by day -- and find ways to be vocal and visible after their workday is done," Mary Bell, president of the nearly 100,000-member Wisconsin Education Association Council, told members in a statement issued Sunday afternoon. "To those whose contracts recognize Presidents' Day as a holiday, we call on them to return to Madison." But other unions said they plan to continue demonstrations into Tuesday, and not all members of Bell's union had decided to follow her lead. Members of Madison's WEAC local, the MTI Teachers Union, have voted to remain at the capitol on Monday at least, its president, Mike Lipp, told CNN. "I think every teacher in here wants to be back with their students, but we also understand that there are important points to be made," Madison high school teacher David Olson told CNN. "And so far, we've done a good job of using our collective action to force the issue and to make sure people understand why we're fighting. It's an important fight to continue." Wisconsin's new Republican governor, Scott Walker, is pushing a state budget bill that would severely curtail collective bargaining for public employees. Walker says the measures are needed to head off a $3.6 billion budget shortfall by 2013 that could result in thousands of layoffs. But the issue has triggered widespread resistance from unions, even those that won't be affected by the plan, and the 14 Democrats in the state Senate have fled Wisconsin to stall a vote on the plan. "It is not about specific negotiation points," Matthew Kearney, a member of the Teaching Assistants Association and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, told CNN on Sunday. "It's about the existence of unions, the fact that this bill would make it impossible for public unions to exist in Wisconsin. That's what's it's designed to do, to destroy public unions." The demonstrations caused schools districts to cancel classes in Milwaukee and Madison for much of last week as large numbers of teachers took the day off work to protest. Some teachers have been given doctors' notes to excuse their absences from physicians sympathetic to their cause, protesters told CNN. And an estimated 55,000 people turned out for Saturday rallies at the capitol, mostly in opposition to Walker's plan. Several thousand more packed the building on Sunday, sending up a rousing cheer when a group of firefighters -- who, along with police, are exempt from Walker's proposed bill -- joined them in a show of support. Speaking on "Fox News Sunday," Walker denied complaints that he was trying to break up public employee unions. But he said that collective bargaining has hindered local governments' efforts to manage their finances "time and time again." "The difference is, unlike those other states, I want to give those local governments the tools they need to balance the budget now and in the future," he said. "They can't do that with the current collective bargaining laws in the state." Walker called on the fugitive Democrats to come back home, telling them, "If you want to participate in a democracy, you've got to be in the arena." But the senators said they'll stay away unless Walker agrees to negotiations over his proposal, arguing that teachers have already agreed to pay more toward health care and pensions. "In return, they ask only that the provisions that deny their right to collectively bargain are removed," state Senator Jon Erpenbach, a Democrat, said Saturday. CNN's Casey Wian and Chris Welch contributed to this report . | Unions have protested for 6 days in Madison .
The largest teachers' union calls for a return to work .
Madison's teachers' local says it will keep protesting Monday . |
144,879 | 47637f102912693094112420aa09ee9f32b4cf6f | A 31-year-old man has been identified as the main suspect in the deaths of three teenage girls who were killed in a hit-and-run while trick-or-treating in California. Jaquinn Bell allegedly crashed his Honda CRV into twins Lexi and Alexandra Perez and their friend Andrea Gonzalez, all aged 13, at speed as they crossed the road in Santa Ana on Halloween. The victims, who were reportedly dressed in dark costumes and black leggings, were thrown more than 100 feet down Fairhaven Avenue, according to authorities. They all died at the scene . But despite the girls' fates, Bell, from Orange County, reportedly sped off, before abandoning the damaged 2001 truck in the parking lot of a strip mall around a quarter of a mile from the scene. Scroll down for video . Main suspect: Jaquinn Bell (pictured) allegedly crashed his Honda CRV into twins Lexi and Alexandra Perez and their friend Andrea Gonzalez, all aged 13, at speed as they crossed the road in Santa Ana on Halloween . Twins: The girls, who were reportedly trick-or-treating dressed in dark costumes and black leggings, were thrown more than 100 feet down Fairhaven Avenue. They all died at the scene. Above, Lexi and Alexandra . Tragic: Andrea (pictured) was the third girl killed by the hit-and-run driver at around 6.45pm last Friday . The suspect and his two children, aged 14 and 17, who are also believed to have been traveling in the black vehicle at the time, then fled on foot, a witness told KTLA. Bell was arrested outside a Motel 6 in the 7400 block of Katella Avenue, Stanton, on Sunday following a surveillance operation by investigators, Santa Ana Police Chief, Carlos Rojas, said. He was later booked on suspicion of carrying out a felony hit and run at around 6.45pm last Friday, causing death, the news station reported. He is apparently being held on $500,000 bail. Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Mr Rojas said the Honda CRV belonged to 'somebody associated with Mr Bell' and had been found by police sporting 'significant damage'. When asked if Bell was aware he had been involved in a collision, the police chief replied: 'I’m not going to comment on what he might have known at the time.' But he added: 'There’s no doubt in my mind that anybody who was driving in a vehicle that impacted three individuals... probably knew they hit something.' Too young: After the hit-and-run, Bell, from Orange County, reportedly sped off, before abandoning the damaged 2001 truck in the parking lot of a strip mall. Above, Lexi and Alexandra in a more recent photo . Dumped: The Honda CRV was later discovered in the parking lot around a quarter of a mile from the scene . Devastating: Andrea (pictured), Lexi and Alexandra were all pronounced dead at the scene after the crash . On Sunday, Corporal Anthony Bertagna said: 'Witnesses say the vehicle was traveling at a high-rate of speed. I didn't see any skid marks, so it doesn't appear they slowed down whatsoever. 'They left these three young women laying in the street, and left without calling, without stopping, without rendering aid. It's hard to even fathom doing that.' Bell's detainment followed the arrests of four others in connection with the deaths of Lexi, Alexandra and Andrea, who were struck by the Honda CRV in front of Easthaven Elementary School. The other suspects - two adults and two minors - have not been publicly identified. However, they are believed to be Bell's mother and half-sister, and the two children who were traveling with him. Vigil: Brianna Diaz, 12, left, and Sandra Anderson, 13, light a candle at a street-side memorial at North Jacaranda Street and Fairhaven Avenue in Santa Ana . Memorial: Billy and Rose Weatherley offer silent prayers at a make-shift memorial where three 13-year-old girls were hit . The adults have been released following their arrests at around 11am on Sunday, while the minors have been placed into protective custody. Following Bell's arrest, Andrea's brother, Josafar Gonzalez, told KTLA: 'The people who did this left them there as if they were nothing. They’re finally in custody and have to answer to justice. 'That brings such a sigh of relief not just to my parents, not just to the twins’ family, but just to the whole community.' On Saturday, Magaly Huerta, the twins' aunt, said her family was in complete shock at having lost 'what we lost the most'. Speaking to ABC 7, she said: 'Why couldn't they stop the car when they saw my nieces? Why they couldn't do anything? I know God will punish them sooner or later.' Lexi and Alexandra's mother added: 'I cannot believe this.' The Alexandra and Lexi Perez Huerta Memorial Fund Facebook page was created on Saturday and asked for donations for the girls' funeral expenses. Family, friends and residents left flowers and lit candles for the trio following the tragic incident. Some remained at the memorial site all day as they tried to come to terms with the loss. Rachel Emenakes brings flowers to a street-side memorial in Santa Ana, California for the three teenage trick-or-treaters killed. She hopes the outpour will help the family . Scene: The trio who were hit were all said to be in costume and carrying candy bags at the time . Sharon Stewart, who cuts hair at a nearby barber shop, told the Los Angeles Times that she was eating outside last Friday when she heard what sounded like a terrible crash and screaming. She said she turned around and saw a car leaving and people yelling, so she got in her car and followed. Stewart said she saw a young man run from the scene and heard him yelling at what she thought was his companion. Maria Ramirez, 14, who lives about a half block from where the hit-and-run occurred, told The Orange County Register that she attended middle school with the twins. She last saw them at school on Halloween, she said. Police cordon: Witnesses said they heard the squealing of tires and ran over to see tarp sheets already over two of the girls . 'I can't believe it happened,' Miss Ramirez said of the deaths of her friends, while she gathered late Friday night on the sidewalk with dozens of onlookers. 'They were fun, good girls.' Jeff Evans, who was trick-or-treating with his eight-year-old daughter nearby at the time said he heard squealing tires, looked over and saw the gruseome scene. He told the O.C Register: 'When we got over here, there was already a tarp over two girls,' Evans said. Briana Magana, 13, said she attended Santiago Charter Middle School with one of the victims. Response: Paramedics rushed to the crash site but two of the girls were pronounced dead at the scene. The third died while she was being taken to hospital . She told the paper the pair had attended a school dance earlier in the day and had later gone for lunch at McDonald's. 'It's unbelievable how something like this could happen,' Briana said. 'She always had a smile, she would light up the room, and she was just a really good student.' The Orange County district attorney's office is reviewing Bell's case. | Twins Lexi and Alexandra Perez, 13, killed crossing a road in Santa Ana .
Friend Andrea Gonzalez also died in the hit-and-run on Halloween night .
Police made multiple arrests on Sunday after a Honda SUV was dumped .
Now, Jaquinn Bell, 31, from Orange, has been identified as main suspect .
Bell allegedly abandoned the truck and fled on foot with his two children .
He was arrested outside Motel 6 in Stanton following police investigation .
Charged with hit-and-run causing death; he is being held on $500,000 bail .
Other four suspects - two adults, two minors - released from custody . |
40,455 | 7232b07cf52288eb5519c918bf380bd5ecedb553 | (CNN)It's an unseasonably warm day in Oakland, California, a perfect morning for Jennifer and Dave Simon to take their baby, Livia, out for a walk. But her stroller sits idle, and Livia is stuck inside the house -- as she has been for nearly a month. Livia isn't sick, but doctors fear she might become the 53rd person to contract measles in a recent Disneyland outbreak. Now she's in a 28-day quarantine, because of a family that refused to vaccinate their child. Opinion: Heed the lesson from Disneyland measles outbreak . It started January 2, when the Simons took Livia, who had a cold, to the pediatrician. Two days later, the doctor's office called to say that a child with measles had been in the office that same day. The Simons feared the worst. One of the most contagious viruses on Earth, measles can hang in the air or on surfaces for hours. If she'd contracted the disease, Livia could become deaf or even die. "We were really freaking out and really worried," Jennifer Simon said. Then the Simons learned from a doctor that the child in the doctor's office had contracted measles because his parents had refused vaccination. Livia, just 6 months old, is too young to be vaccinated. "I'm angry," Simon said. "I've been upset that someone else's personal choice has impacted us so much." In Alameda County, where Simon lives, nine infants were in quarantine as of Tuesday night because of the measles outbreak, a spokeswoman said. Simon said she hopes families who opt not to immunize their children realize the full impact of their decision. "Their choice endangered my child," she said. She points out that vaccine refusers rely on other people to protect their children. It's called herd immunity. If the rest of the community is immune to disease, it helps keep the disease from spreading to those who are unvaccinated. "You're basically relying on society but not giving back," she said. Livia's quarantine ends Friday. A happy baby, she doesn't seem to mind being at home, but it's disrupted the Simons' life and cost them money, as the couple had to miss work for several days and then bring Jennifer's mother in from Houston to stay home with Livia. When asked what she would say to parents of the unvaccinated child, she said she would first ask whether their child was doing OK. Then she would ask them a question: "Hey, you guys, what do you think about vaccines now?" 5 things to know about measles . | A California baby too young to be vaccinated went to the doctor with a cold .
Another child in the office had measles; its parents had refused vaccination .
"Their choice endangered my child," mother says . |
88,446 | fb086a9de3641139e23e8c2acce64160560301a2 | Imagine, for a moment, the pressure Tyler Blackett found himself under. To one side, his new manager Louis van Gaal was watching intently. Around him, meanwhile, were seasoned trophy-winning professionals headed by Wayne Rooney, who wondered if he would deliver. This, for the 20-year-old, was a completely new situation. But it was not on the pitch in front of 75,000 expectant fans at Old Trafford, Blackett’s first big Manchester United examination came 38,000 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. Scroll down for video . Promise: Tyler Blackett is expected to win his first England Under-21 cap against Moldova on Tuesday . ‘All the young players did one tour,’ says Blackett, taking up the story about how he was initiated into United’s squad this summer. ‘We had to get up, one by one and sing it over the speaker of the plane. I did a song by Drake [an American rapper], called Hold On, We’re Going Home. ‘It was quite fitting really, as we were on our way back [from Miami after beating Liverpool in the International Champions Cup]. Luke Shaw went first and he did a speech, answering questions from all the senior players. Darren Fletcher and Wayne were behind it. It was all in good spirits.’ If the defender passed that light-hearted examination, an altogether more serious one was presented to him on the opening day of the new Premier League campaign, when Van Gaal handed him his senior debut against Swansea. Chance: Blackett has played in all three of Manchester United's Premier League games . Blackett responded in the 2-1 defeat with a display of some promise and he has now played in each of United’s three Premier League games. Another first is around the corner as he is expected to win his first England Under-21 cap when Gareth Southgate’s side play their final Euro 2015 qualifier in Moldova on Tuesday. For some, the new-found scrutiny and profile would be difficult to handle but Blackett, a lifelong United fan who has been with the club since he was seven, is studious and grounded. He epitomises the type of character that Southgate wants. ‘You have to be disciplined with it and be able to criticise yourself,’ he says during his first interview with a national newspaper. ‘It’s not an easy thing to do and can be quite difficult, especially if you are going to watch a game where you know you have not played your best. But I feel it is something you have to do if you want to improve. It is especially helpful when you are trying to learn how to play a new system [playing three at the back] like we are at United now. ‘We all watch and analyse performances together after matches. You have to study performances on your own too. I’ve not only done that at United. I did it when I was on loan at Blackpool and Birmingham [last season] as well. I get the broadcasts of my games from the media guys at the club. I take them home and watch them on my laptop. ‘Watching the games lets me know where I need to improve. I was watching one game at Carrington recently when Gary Neville walked past. He stopped, shook my hand, said “well done” and left me to it.’ Sing song: Blackett performed Drake's Hold On, We’re Going Home . Challenge: Blackett had to perform in front of United's senior players like Wayne Rooney . Neville is not the only former United great charting his progress. Rio Ferdinand, now with Queens Park Rangers, would take Blackett to one side to offer pointers, while the confidence Van Gaal has given him is clear to see. ‘I still speak with Rio now and he texts me after games,’ says Blackett. ‘He would take me for training sessions on my own where he would give me tips. ‘As for the manager, he said from day one that he was always going to help our cause and give young players a chance. It gave all the young players at the club a lift.’ | Tyler Blackett had to perform in front of new manager Louis van Gaal and senior pros like Wayne Rooney .
The United defender performed Drake's Hold On, We’re Going Home on return flight from Miami .
Blackett is expected to win his first England Under-21 cap against Moldova on Tuesday . |
101,205 | 0e6ec601f4b01f9e4b7e3780484aa3ab82893d72 | A building collapsed today after a woman who was being chased by police crashed a stolen SUV into the side. The female driver of the vehicle was extracted by emergency crews following the crash at 10:30 a.m. in downtown Kansas City. She was taken to hospital, but her injuries were not considered life-threatening. A building collapsed today after a woman who was being chased by police crashed an SUV into the side . The female driver of the vehicle was able to get out of the car following the crash at 10:30 a.m. in downtown Kansas City . The white SUV was reported stolen on Thursday and was spotted running stoplights and stop signs at speeds up to 80 mph, police said . The white SUV was reported stolen on Thursday and was spotted running stoplights and stop signs at speeds up to 80 mph, police said. The woman, who has not been identified, lost control, hit a fire hydrant and plowed into the building. The corner of the building collapsed on top of the woman's vehicle and a vintage car which was stored inside the building came crashing down nearby. The woman lost control, hit a fire hydrant and plowed into the building . 'She didn't stop driving like crazy,' said Kansas City Police Capt. Chris Sicoli . Bystanders survey the damage from the speeding car - police have launched an investigation . 'She didn't stop driving like crazy,' Kansas City Police Capt. Chris Sicoli told Kansas City Star. Kansas City Fire Battalion James Garrett said she had to be removed from the vehicle and that she is lucky she did not suffer any life-threatening injuries. 'If you can see all the bricks and the building on top of the car, as well as the other vehicle, the party actually had to be extricated,' he told FOX4KC. 'They're very worried the entire building has been weakened by the collapse,' Garrett said. The building could be demolished once the structure has been examined. | Woman crashed her SUV at 10:30 a.m. in downtown Kansas City .
She was extracted by emergency crews and taken for hospital treatment .
The car was reported as stolen and was running stoplights at 80mph .
The building which was weakened then collapsed - it was vacant . |
178,479 | 7313f498939eda9b9c6e61c5d4646139aa7068fd | (CNN) -- Pakistan were indebted to an inspired bowling performance from their captain to survive a major scare from minnows Canada and maintain their 100 per cent record at the Cricket World Cup. Shahid Afridi took five wickets in a devastating spell as Canada were bowled out for 138 chasing a modest Pakistan total of 184. At 104-4 Canada looked to be on target to match Ireland's stunning win over England on Wednesday before Afridi decimated their middle and lower order, adding a superb run out to his five wickets. Canada lost their final six wickets for just 36 runs as Pakistan surged to the top of Group A with three wins from three matches. But it could have been a very different story had Afridi not rescued his side after they toiled against Canada's bowling attack.. Pakistan lost wickets at regular intervals in their innings with their top three batsman failing to make more than 16. Misbah-ul-Haq and Umar Akmal put together a partnership of 73 before the latter fell for 48 to the bowling of Balaji Rao. Afridi added 20 off 17 balls before he was dismissed by Rizwan Cheema. Harvir Baidwan was the pick of Canada's bowlers, recording figures of 3-35. Balaji Rao, Rizwan Cheema and Jimmy Hansra took two wickets each. Canada were reduced to 16-2 in their reply but recovered to 104-4 with Hansra well set. But Afridi changed the game with a ruthless display of spin bowling. He accounted for Ashish Bagai, Hansra, Cheema, Tyson Gordon and Baidwan before removing Balaji Rao with a direct hit as the batsmen attempted a single. Wahab Riaz polished off the match by bowling Henry Osinde. Earlier, South Africa thrashed the Netherlands by 231 runs as they recorded their second victory in the competition to top Group B. Hashim Amla and AB De Villiers both hit centuries as South Africa raced to an impressive 351-5 off their 50 overs. In reply the Netherlands were bowled out for just 120 as spinner Imran Tahir took three wickets. Robin Peterson and Jacques Kallis took two apiece. | Pakistan survive a scare from Canada at the Cricket World Cup .
Canada bowled out for just 138 chasing Pakistan total of 184 .
Shahid Afridi takes five wickets to make it three wins from three for Pakistan .
South Africa thrash the Netherlands winning by 231 runs to top Group B . |
117,245 | 23673b320dfd960b4917463d750404a624c9a3f0 | 'You're doing this through text message????' That was the message 38-year-old Christa M. Clark sent in response to a text message she received from her now-ex-fiancee, Buffalo, New York, restaurateur Louis J. Billittier Jr., when he ended their 14-month engagement via-text in July of 2012. But the message Billittier sent next ended up costing him the $53,000 engagement ring he bought for his now-jilted ex-fiancee. 'Parting ring': A text message Louis Billitier (pictured) sent his ex-fiancee referring to her engagement ring as a 'parting ring' cost him more than $50,000 . Prenup: Billittier called off his engagement to Christa Clark (pictured) after the 38-year-old nail technician refused to sign a prenuptial agreement . A New York State Supreme Court judge last week awarded Clark - a nail technician who met Billittier at golf tournament in 2009 - the white gold, 2.97-carat diamond ring, or its fair, market value, based on a text Billittier sent Clark after their breakup, in which he referred to the pricy ring as a 'parting ring,' implying that it was a gift. Billttier reportedly ended the engagement after his much-younger would-be-bride refused to sign a prenuptial agreement. However, Clark's attorney, Beverly Braun, tells MailOnline that isn't true. '[Clark] did agree to the prenup,' Braun says. When asked why Billittier ended the engagement - if Clark agreed to the prenup - Braun said she '[doesn't] want to speculate.' 'The decision speaks for itself,' she said. Billittier's attorney, Richard Sullivan, tells MailOnline that he is 'surprised [Braun] would even say something like that' when told that Braun claims her client agreed to sign the prenup. However, Sullivan says his client has 'no reaction to the [judge's] ruling.' Under the law, courts are typically inclined to side with the groom in disputes over engagement rings - legally, the groom is still entitled to the ring, even if he is the one who calls off the wedding. And just weeks after calling off the wedding - and despite his assurance that it was a 'parting ring' - the 55-year-old co-owner of Buffalo's Chef's Restaurant wanted the ring back. However, because Billittier responded to Clark's outrage over being dumped in a text message by telling her 'plus you get a $50,000 parting ring. Enough for a down payment on a house,' Judge Russell P. Buscaglia ruled that the ring had become a gift, and was no longer part of a contract for marriage. Ladies man: Billittier claimed that the text calling the ring a 'parting ring' was a joke, like a game-show contestant's parting gift . Just weeks after ending their engagement, Billittier began sending Clark text messages threatening to take back the ring if she continued to insult him following the breakup. 'Keep it up, and I will take back the ring as well,' he wrote in one text message dated July 20, 2012. After deciding he wanted the ring back, Billittier sent Clark a text message stating that 'by law have to give it back. You’re nowhere near the person I thought you were. You don’t deserve it.' In his ruling, Judge Buscaglia said that messages were further proof that 'the ring had been re-gifted,' according to BuffaloNews.com. The judge found that Billittier's text messages demanding the ring back indicated that he was suffering from 'giver's remorse,' but that didn't mean he was entitled to the ring. The law typically favors the groom in disputes over engagement rings, even if it is he who calls off the wedding . 'Many gifts are given for reasons that sour with the passage of time,' Buscaglia said in his ruling. However, gift law doesn't entitle to the gifter to recoup the gift just because feelings have changed, Buscaglia ruled. 'Once a gift is given, it is irrevocable,' the judge concluded. Of the text referring to the 'parting ring' - the text that ultimately cost him more than $50,000 - Billittier claimed in court that he meant it as a joke. 'I was being sarcastic, like a game show host – you get a parting gift,' Billittier said. | Buffalo restaurateur Louis Billittier Jr. called off his engagement to his 38-year-old ex-fiancee in a text message after she refused to sign a prenuptial agreement .
The attorney for his jilted former fiancee, Christa Clark, tells MailOnline her client never refused to sign the agreement .
Billittier told Clark that she could keep the engagement ring as a 'parting ring,' implying that it was a gift .
State law usually sides with the would-be groom in disputes over engagement rings .
However, a judge ruled that because Billittier referred to the ring as a 'parting ring,' it is implied that it is a gift, and he was simply suffering from 'giver's remorse' |
64,787 | b80481578fe1246126816e12d058c70cec040ad9 | (CNN) -- A federal judge on Friday gave final approval to a settlement between BP and as many as 100,000 plaintiffs who allege they were sickened or injured by the 2010 Gulf oil disaster. The medical settlement, which covers clean-up workers and residents who lived within a certain area of the spill zone, provides medical compensation and consultation and a health outreach program. "Without a settlement, Plaintiffs face significant further expenses in time, money, and resources -- with no assurance of recovery," U.S. District Judge Carl Barbier wrote in his ruling, which did not list the amount of compensation. Geoff Morrell, a spokesman for BP, said the company is "pleased" with the settlement. "These settlements are historic resolutions that avoid years of lengthy litigation, and today's decision by the Court represents yet another critical step forward for BP in meeting its commitment to economic and environmental restoration efforts in the Gulf and in eliminating legal risk facing the company," he said in a statement. The oil spill -- the worst in U.S. history -- began after a rig explosion aboard the Deepwater Horizon in the Gulf. Eleven workers died. Roughly 205 million gallons of oil spewed into the sea for nearly three months before a cap was placed on the BP-owned Macondo well, nearly a mile beneath the surface. CNN's Vivian Kuo contributed to this report. | The settlement covers clean-up workers and residents within the spill zone .
BP says it is "pleased" with the settlement .
The oil spill, the worst in U.S. history, occurred in 2010 . |
40,732 | 72ea6a7de84d157a37257b7661369ddcc99a550b | A group of incensed passengers prevented a top Pakistani politician from boarding a flight after they were kept waiting on the runway for two hours until he arrived. A video clip shows Senator Rehman Malik, the country’s former Interior Minister being ejected from the Islamabad-bound Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight on Monday evening. Dr Ramesh Kumar Wakwani, a Member of National Assembly, was jeered in his seat and also forced to leave the plane. Disgruntled passengers can be heard referring to the men as ‘so-called VIPs’ as they wait for the two delayed politicians aboard the aircraft, while members of the flight’s cabin crew are seen attempting to calm the travellers down. ‘No, no, no, sir,’ one of the passengers responds. ‘We've taken it for too long. For 68 years. Are we going to take it for another 68 years?’ When Senator Malik finally appears, the angry passengers immediately begin hurling abuse forcing the politician to hurriedly retreat to the terminal building. ‘You should go back,’ shouts one. ‘You should apologise to these passengers. You should be ashamed of yourself, 250 passengers have suffered because of you. It is your fault, sir.’ Mr Malik initially appears to remonstrate but his comments are barely audible as they are drowned out by the furious passengers. Pakistan's former interior Minister Rehman Malik was blocked from entering the plane by angry passengers . The video grab that went viral shows passengers aboard Pakistan International Airlines flight PK-370 from Karachi booing and ridiculing the lawmakers, and forcing Rehman Malik off the flight . As Malik argues with the passengers, one traveller replies, ‘You are not a minister anymore!’ Rehman Malik was Pakistan's Interior Minister between 2008 and 2013. Meanwhile, Dr Ramesh Kumar Wakwani had already managed to board the plane when furious passengers also forced him out of his seat after chanting ‘shame, shame, shame’. Rehman Malik later took to Twitter to defend himself and insisted that PIA should be blamed for the flight's delay and not himself . Mr Malik eventually boarded another plane to Islamabad after being refused entry to his initial flight . As he left the aircraft, most of the 250 passengers applauded. Monday night's Pakistan International Airlines flight from Karachi to Islamabad eventually took off without the two men. ‘There are times when something you dream of actually happens, like Senator Rehman Malik getting booted off that Pakistan International Airlines flight,’ wrote Rabia Ahmed in a blog post for Pakistan's Express Tribune. However, a spokesperson for PIA said that the delay was due to a technical issue and that they had informed people of this via text message. Rehman Malik later took to Twitter to defend himself and insisted that PIA should be blamed for the flight's delay and not himself. He later wrote: ‘I hv right to defend myself agst the allegation. PK370 /1900hr was delayed b/c tech reasons/was expected to leave at 2030. So no delay for me. In a second Tweet, he wrote: ‘Aam now leaving by pk 300 and now in the plane.50 minutes delay has been announced who shd be blamed for this delay. PIA or me? Obviously PIA. | Senator Malik forced to turn back as he attempts to enter the plane .
Dr Ramesh Wakwani, a Member of National Assembly, was also ejected .
Pakistan International Airlines insist the delay was due to a technical issue . |
103,899 | 12131d3a76990ebea8be505cac3744516ee4dd34 | By . Sara Malm . PUBLISHED: . 20:59 EST, 15 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 21:01 EST, 15 March 2013 . Although humans come in all shapes and size, the lifeless plastic dolls used to advertise the clothes we wear rarely do. So when a photograph of a fuller-figured mannequin emerged on Facebook earlier this week, the internet gave a standing ovation. The photograph, taken at a Swedish department store, shows a 'larger-than-average' clothing doll wearing a purple lingerie set, next to one of ‘normal-size’. 'Real-life sized': The photo of the Swedish mannequin was posted on Facebook earlier this week and has been shared more than 17,200 times . The photo was posted on Facebook page Women’s Rights News earlier this week with the caption: ‘Store mannequins in Sweden. They look like real women. The US should invest in some of these’ Since Tuesday the photo of the Swedish mannequin has received more than 56,000 likes. It has been shared over 17,200 times and nearly 3,000 people have left comments, a majority of which are raving about the Scandinavian retailer’s choice to use a mannequin the size of a ‘real woman’. The original poster, 29-year-old Rebecka from Malmo, found the dummy in department store Åhléns in 2010 and wrote about her discovery on her blog. The norm: Mannequins in the petite shape we are used to, at the launch of Versace's collection for H&M . ‘The mannequin to the right actually . reminds you of the size of a real human being. So nice! She is still . skinny, but it looks healthy.’ She also points a finger at Swedish retail success H&M, calling their mannequins ‘insanely skinny’ adding that the High Street giant’s dolls has ‘a waist like my shin’. H&M is not the only retailer to be critiqued for their skinny mannequins. In 2011 Gap launched their ‘always skinny’ campaign to promote a new jeans cut, accompanied by dummies with stick-thin legs. The campaign was followed by a huge online backlash where the high street brand was accused of promoting anorexia. | Picture of mannequin that 'looks like a real woman' goes viral .
Doll larger than the average dummy found at Swedish department store .
Facebook post of lingerie mannequin amass 56,000 likes in four days . |
201,862 | 91563e26e5a9a7ee09c8ca4f4bba6bea6eb13d86 | (CNN) -- Concertgoers at the Indiana State Fair panicked and fled in the immediate aftermath of the concert stage collapse. But just as quickly, they returned, offering what they could during the moments that mattered. "I'm a nurse. I'm a doctor. I'm a trained EMS responder," they said, according to Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels, whose voice broke with emotion as he recalled the extraordinary efforts of ordinary people. "The individual Hoosiers ran to the trouble, not from the trouble," he said, using the name for Indiana residents. "It's the character that we associate with our state. People don't have to be paid to do it." The stage collapse at the Indiana State Fair Saturday night killed five people and injured 40 others. Video showed the blue canvas top fraying and flapping just seconds before the steel scaffolding gave way, sending a heavy bank of stage lights and metal onto fans closest to the outdoor stage. Ivan Gratz, a professional videographer, witnessed the event and filmed what happened after the collapse. "Everybody ran away from the stage," he said. "And then as soon as the stage, like it was stable on the ground, everyone turned around and they ran back. And that's what was incredible in the pictures where you see the people grab a hold of the stage and they're lifting it up." "Just amazing," said Gratz. Allison Hoehn, another concertgoer, said that many attendees rushed to help those trapped after the stage crumbled. "We tried to get down to help, but no one was moving," Hoehn said. "The storm came on so fast and the stage just snapped like a toothpick." Spectators grabbed parts of their seats to assemble makeshift stretchers, Hoehn said. "Everyone rushed to help, and we saw people searching and pulling people out," she said. "(I) saw five people go away on stretchers. It was amazing how many people ran in to try to lift the scaffolding." Video broadcast by CNN affiliate WISH showed people heaving heavy equipment and working with great care as they moved one of the injured. Some concertgoers supported the scaffolding as others pointed, appearing to direct the response. "It was a tough scene. I've been a photographer for 30 years but to see something like this ... it was (a) pretty tough situation for a lot of people," said Gratz. | Video of the scene show concertgoers returning to help .
They fashioned chairs as stretchers and lifted scaffolding .
Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels said people "ran to the trouble, not from the trouble"
"It's the character that we associate with our state," he said . |
216,798 | a4aa60554d141b621a8f267890b9c60c0e26a212 | (CNN) -- Twenty-nine pilot whales that were part of a pod that was stranded off the Florida coast are still missing, and scientists are asking the public for help in finding them. The missing whales were among 51 stranded on the edge of Everglades National Park last week, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Twenty-two of those whales are confirmed dead, and scientists are performing necropsies to figure out why. The only commonality so far is that all the dead adult whales are female, scientists said. Eleven dead whales were spotted Sunday in the lower Florida Keys, and 11 others were found dead last week. Some whales were spotted alive on Friday, when a pod of 20 was seen five nautical miles offshore, moving inshore and in a southward direction. They were reportedly swimming slowly and in a disorganized fashion, which might suggest exhaustion, dehydration or malnutrition, according to NOAA. Pilot whales are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, but they are not endangered. Mass strandings by pilot whales are not uncommon in Florida. In 2012, nearly two dozen pilot whales stranded and beached themselves. In 2011, 23 pilot whales stranded and beached themselves. Anyone who spots the whales in the waters off southern Florida are asked to call 877-WHALE-HELP. | 29 pilot whales that were stranded are still missing off the Florida coast .
Scientist call on public for help in spotting them .
The whales were last sen alive on Friday, swimming slowly . |
208,246 | 99997baa150be8a4098b66208ec2ceda79670926 | By . Jennifer Smith . Eight members of the same British family fought in the First World War and miraculously lived to tell the tale. The Lord brothers from High Wycombe in Buckinghamshire, all escaped from battle with minor wounds and gas poisoning. So eager were they to serve their country, the youngest brother, who was just 14, borrowed his sibling's birth certificate to enlist. William (left), Arthur (top left), Gilbert (top centre), Ted (top right), Frank (right), Jim (bottom left), Sidney (centre) and Len (bottom right) fought in the First World War and miraculously all survived . Their service was acknowledged by King George V himself, who wrote to the men following the death of their army sergeant father. The monarch wrote to brothers Sidney, Gilbert, Ted, Will, Arthur, Frank, Len and Jim, to say he was 'much gratified to hear of the manner in which they so readily responded to the Sovereign and their country.' Jansen Lord, the son of the third eldest brother Frank, said it was down only to sheer luck that all eight survived. 'It really is remarkable when you look back through the history of the war that they did all survive. I think it is absolute pure luck none of them were killed. 'One of them was wounded in the leg and one of the others was slightly gassed - which actually caused his death a long time afterwards - but other than this they were all healthy. 'They never really spoke of the war but one thing my father did tell me is that he had a very close call one day. The youngest brother, Ted Lord, was just 14 when he borrowed his brother's birth certificate to enlist . The boys' father, Sgt Arthur Lord, was the last person in High Wycombe to be given a full military funeral (pictured) 'He was in the trenches and was very close to another Wycombe man who was shot and blinded.' The eldest brother, Sidney Lord, had one of the most dangerous roles as a special reconnaissance officer in the Royal Naval Air Service. Once in an air balloon high above ground, he would have to try to identify the enemy base and determine whether or not they were attacking. Jansen Lord, 92, said: 'My uncle told me that as soon as he was in the air the enemy would start shooting at him and he would have to shout "for God’s sake pull me down!" 'I do not think people realised at the time what they were going off to fight for. 'But it is great to see the start of the war being commemorated like it is.' The soldiers' father, Sgt Arthur Lord, died during the war. He had signed up years before the conflict and was the last person to receive a full military funeral and parade in their home town. | The Lord brothers returned from the Great War with minor wounds .
Youngest, who was 14, borrowed brother's birth certificate to enlist .
King George V wrote the family a letter to thank them for their service . |
246,901 | cb84629949184bdce0c70aaa2b1926504ab85f94 | By . Jaymi Mccann . PUBLISHED: . 12:40 EST, 18 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 13:18 EST, 18 March 2013 . The body of a baby found dumped at the side of a country road was that of a girl, police confirmed today. Officers were called to Ox Hey Lane in Lostock, Bolton, shortly before 4.55pm on Thursday after the body was discovered by a man and woman out walking their dog. The body was wrapped in clothing and plastic bags, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said. Investigation: Police forensic officers search the undergrowth on Ox Hey Lane in Bolton after the body of a newborn baby was discovered found dead and abandoned . Worrying: A cordon has been set up around a path where the child was found, close to fields used by Bolton Wanderers' academy players . Officers also recovered a note which requested that the baby receive an Islamic burial. A post mortem examination has been carried out and the cause of death remains unascertained. The age and ethnicity of the baby are still unknown and it remains unclear whether the baby was live or stillborn, police said. Further tests will now be carried out. Chief Inspector Carol Martin, said: 'We can now confirm the baby was a little girl but there are still a number of questions that remain unanswered. Death: The scene is close to this football academy . Discovery: Forensic officers set up tents to search for evidence . 'Chief among these questions is the . identity of the mother. Our priority remains to trace the mother who we . imagine must be having an extremely distressing time. 'We are still very worried about the parents’ physical and emotional state.' It is likely the mother in . particular will require some form of medical attention and I want to . appeal directly to both parents or anyone who knows them to contact . police or visit your GP or local hospital.' Ms Martin added: 'It is vitally . important that I stress support networks are in place and are waiting . and on hand to help the parents. Grim: The dead body of a newborn baby was found abandoned near to a Bolton Wanderers training ground. The location is also a mile away from the team's Reebok Stadium, pictured . 'People will notice an increased . police presence in the area this Thursday as it will be a week on from . this sad discovery. If you have any questions or concerns then please . approach the officers - they are there to help.' Police have appealed to residents in . the Lostock area who perhaps use Ox Hey Lane for running, cycling or . walking on a frequent or daily basis for information. Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 5599 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 . | Police confirmed that she is a little girl but not her age or ethnicity .
A group of walkers made the grim discovery on Ox Hey Lane in Lostock .
It is just over a mile from the Reebok Stadium .
Police are 'deeply concerned' for the welfare of the mother . |
75,089 | d4e21b1f646b9bbbc337a0a20d024b01708fb456 | Dallas Cowboys running back Joseph Randle offered an officer $100 for a massage while he was being booked into a Texas jail for stealing underwear and cologne. The 22-year-old joked with officers, accused others of drink driving and showed concern over how is mugshot looked after he was arrested and fined $29,500 for shoplifting from a Dillard's store. Video footage from inside Frisco City Jail obtained by CBS DFW shows the NFL star wearing a white sleeveless shirt and calling his agent saying he had been 'jammed up' and needed 'bond' so he could make it to practice the following day. He also appears to be disrespectful to officers and admits that he hopes his arrest isn't on the news. Arrested: Video footage of Dallas Cowboys running back Joseph Randle being booked into Frisco City Jail in Texas shows him joking with officers while wearing a white sleeveless shirt . Disrespectful: The 22-year-old then asks a female officer whether she will give him a massage for $100 . Plea for help: He also calls his agent saying he had been 'jammed up' and needed 'bond' so he could make it to practice the following day . Appearance: Randle also asked to see his mugshot once it was taken, concerned at how it may look . 'Hey, is this going to be on the news, you think?' he asks. As the officer is going through his health history, Randle then jokes about taking medical marijuana and compares his case to the arrest of Ray Rice. Listing his personal belongings, the officer states that he has more than $300 in cash on him and a number of credit cards. The items he stole cost substantially less. Following the arrest, he was controversial offered a deal with an underwear company. The 22-year-old landed the contract in a bid to atone for his crime, revealing he will donate $15,000 of the brand's apparel to children in need. 'There is no excuse for my mistake last week, and I take full responsibility for my actions,' Randle said, via ESPNDallas.com. 'I let down my coaches, teammates, and family. 'My agent and I have spent a lot of time looking for ways I can turn my situation into a learning experience for young people. 'Partnering with MeUndies allows me the opportunity to give back to others less fortunate than myself, and spread a positive message of not making the same mistake twice.' Randle, who signed a four-year, $2.35 million contract last year, was charged with Class B misdemeanour theft of underwear and cologne between the value of $50 to $500. Police attended the Dillard's store at Stonebriar Mall in Frisco, north of Dallas, at 8.17pm, after the young NFL star was detained by security staff. A police spokesman told the Dallas Morning News that Randle tried to take a pack of two black Polo underwear valued at $39.50 and a small bottle of Gucci Guilty Black cologne priced at $84. Dallas Cowboys' Joseph Randle was arrested for shoplifting at a Dillard's department store in Frisco, Texas . Randle, 22, was arrested on Monday and released after posting £220 bail on Tuesday morning . The running back is accused of trying to steal underwear worth £25 and cologne priced at £53 . Randle, whose base salary this season is $495,000, was released from custody on Tuesday morning after posting bail of $350, police confirmed. Although behind DeMarco Murray in the Cowboys' pecking order, Randle played a key role in their side's win over defending Super Bowl champions Seattle on Sunday. Against the league's top rushing defence, Randle rushed for 52 yards in their 30-23 win at CenturyLink Field. Randle came to the Cowboys as a fifth-round draft pick from Oklahoma State in 2013 and it is hoped he can take pressure off Cowboys' workhorse superstar Murray. | Dallas Cowboys running back Joseph Randle fined $29,500 for shoplifting .
Video of his booking in Frisco City Jail shows him joking with officers .
Also shows concern over how his mugshot looks whether he will be cut .
He then calls his agent asking to get him out so he can make practice .
Jokes about smoking medical marijuana and compares his situation to that of Ray Rice - arrested and suspended after punching his wife .
Player had $300 in cash and credit cards on him at the time of his arrest .
The items he stole reportedly cost substantially less . |
266,131 | e4b3fa52d86ab4c3090c74b117d90ce33380cf67 | It can be hard to tell whether an animals is content in its surroundings, but scientists have now discovered how goats express emotions. The findings could help farmers gain a better insight into the wellbeing of their stock and turn boost welfare. They believe the animals express contentment with a stable bleat and small ear movements. Scientists have examined how goats express subtle positive emotions, which could lead to greater understanding of their welfare. They discovered that goats are more likely to point their ears forward (stock image pictured) and keep their tail up when they are in a positive state . While it can be easy to spot an animal in distress, it is often harder for people who work closely with animals to know when they are content. Dr Alan McElligott and Dr Elodie Briefer of Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) studied goats at Buttercups Sanctuary for Goats in Monchelsea, Kent. They wanted to get a clear understanding of how the animals express their emotions through sound and behaviour in positive in mildly positive and negative situations. The researchers discovered that the goats were more likely to point their ears forward and keep their tail up when they were in a positive state. They also produced more ‘stable’ calls that varied less in frequency. The scientists hope that by studying how different animals portray their emotions, they can ensure that they are happy in their surroundings, which is of importance not only to animal welfare groups but to consumers who try and buy free range meat, for example. The scientists hope that by studying how different animals portray their emotions, they can ensure that they are happy in their surroundings, which is of importance not only to animal welfare groups but to consumers who try and buy free range meat, for example. Free range chickens are pictured . ‘It is often relatively easy to identify negative emotions in animals but we know little about how they show that they are experiencing positive states,’ Dr McElligott said. ‘Subtle hints from goats like small changes in their calls, their heart rate or the position of their ears tell us about what state it is in and could indicate whether their environment is good for their welfare or not.’ Dr Briefer, who is now at ETH Zurich, said: ‘In this study, we were able to identify not only indicators of emotional arousal, but also whether emotions were positive or negative. ‘Such indicators are important for the welfare of the animals, because they tell us when the animals are experiencing a negative versus a positive emotion, and we can thus adapt the environment to avoid negative emotions and promote positive ones.’ Horses look at each other's ears to read emotions (stock image) and when they are interested, their ears prick up . Just like humans, horses read each other’s faces. But, unlike us, they gain important information by specifically examining the ears, according to a study published in August. It seems that when a horse is interested in something, it pricks up its ears and swivels them towards whatever has caught its attention. When a horse's ears are flopping down, it means the creature is relaxed, but when they are pinned back, the horse is expressing anger. The movements are so important that, if its ears are covered up, another horse struggles to know what it is thinking. The finding comes from University of Sussex researchers who studied what makes one horse pay attention to another horse. Researcher Jennifer Wathan, a PhD student said: ‘Although horses have very mobile ears, they can only swivel them round, point them forward, pull them up or flatten them back. Cats and dogs have more movements.’ She added that a greater understanding of how horses communicate could help improve their welfare. | Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have examined how goats express subtle positive emotions - though calls and behaviours .
They are more likely to point their ears forward and keep their tail up when they are content, while their calls are more variable when they are unhappy .
Experts say understanding small cues such as these could be used by farmers to improve animal welfare . |
250,732 | d07e8c98489a4ee01bed1ad508402aadfcbc5b16 | By . Lizzie Parry . A new survey of women aged 31 has found the majority would consider freezing their eggs in the interests of their careers or waiting to find the right partner . Nine in 10 women say they would consider freezing their eggs in the interests of furthering their career, or to give them the time to find the perfect partner, new research has revealed. The survey showed almost half of women would consider the move to preserve fertility, while the majority of those taking part supported the treatment. Dr Camille Lallemant and her team at the Princess Anne Hospital's Complete Fertility Centre in Southampton, Hampshire, questioned 973 women of an average age of 31 in the UK and Denmark via an anonymous online survey. Results showed the majority of respondents - 83 per cent - had heard of egg freezing - known as oocyte freezing - and nearly all of them - 99.4 per cent - considered it acceptable for medical reasons, such as before the start of cancer treatment. Almost as many - 89.1 per cent - considered it acceptable in order to delay the start of their family until social and domestic circumstances were more appropriate. And 19 per cent of respondents in the survey said they were actively considering oocyte freezing treatment themselves, with another 27 per cent interested in the technique. Dr Lallemant said: 'Until very recently, no options for preserving fertility in order to delay childbearing existed, but vitrification has revolutionised oocyte freezing and made it effective and convenient. 'However, before the launch of this study, we were still not clear to what extent women were aware of its possibilities and limitations, or of attitudes towards its use or the circumstances in which they might consider it.' The researchers also found women were more concerned with their biological clock than their careers. The main reasons identified for women . wanting to freeze their eggs were being under 35 years old, not having a . partner by that age, childlessness and a history of infertility. The main reasons identified for women wanting to freeze their eggs were being under 35 years old, not having a partner by that age, childlessness and a history of infertility, the survey of women in the UK and Denmark found. File picture of eggs being frozen . Dr Lallemant said: 'In terms of personal circumstances, career aspirations remain less important than the biological clock and having found a partner by age 35.' In the UK, oocyte freezing is still described as a relatively new development, with fewer than 20 live births reported by December 2012. Dr Lallemant added: 'While both our clinics in Southampton and Copenhagen receive many inquiries about options for fertility planning, few women as yet have actually chosen oocyte freezing for this purpose, though we are however seeing growing interest in the technique.' The findings were presented today at the annual meeting of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology in Munich. | Study at the Princess Anne Hospital in Southampton found majority of women were in favour of freezing their eggs before cancer treatment .
90% said they would consider the move to delay starting a family for social and domestic reasons - including their career and partner .
Study of 973 women age 31 in UK and Denmark found biological clock was the most important factor to those taking part . |
117,445 | 23a7a0d6d2a46ae93f46325dd899dadaae99ab91 | Las Vegas (CNN) -- More than 400 million people trust Google with their e-mail, and 50 million store files in the cloud using the Dropbox service. People manage their bank accounts, pay bills, trade stocks and generally transfer or store huge volumes of personal data online. Who is ultimately in charge of making sure all this information is secure: the government, the companies or the users? At a lively panel discussion at the annual Black Hat security conference in Las Vegas on Wednesday, computer security experts discussed the roll of the government in online security. The debate centered on whether the U.S. government should take the lead in setting security standards for the industry or whether companies are responsible for their own security and that of their users. "I lose my cool when I hear people from the government say people from the private sector need to stand up. Providing for the common defense is what the government is supposed to do," said security systems expert Marcus Ranum. Four ways the Internet could go down . The U.S. government is considering various security bills that address online security standards. One controversial bill, the Cyber Intelligence Sharing and Protection Act, would allow private companies to share data with government agencies when there is an attack or breach, without fear of lawsuits from customers over the shared data. However, several civil liberties groups believe the bill needs more restrictions on how the government can use that shared information. Creating laws isn't the only way the government can push for greater security. It can also use its significant financial sway on major companies. "The government is an enormous purchasing agent in our industry. Why can't the NSA come up with a security standard that they like?" asked Bruce Schneier, security critic and author. "Let them go to the operating system companies, the database companies, the cloud providers, and say if you want the government business, you have to adhere to this." Opponents of the government-control approach say corporations are responsible for their own security online, just as they would be for the physical security of their offices or property. Law enforcement is there to respond to incidents, not make sure the doors are properly locked, they contend. Homeland Security cites sharp rise in cyberattacks . Some of the enthusiasm for the government to take the initiative on cyberthreats is rooted in distrust of big Internet companies. At one point, Jennifer Granick, the director of civil liberties at the Stanford Law School Center for Internet and Society, asked the large audience of security professionals who they trusted less, Google or the government? The majority raised their hands for Google. "I fear Google more than I pretty much fear the government," said panelist Jeff Moss, the founder of Black Hat and DEF CON. "Google, I'm contractually agreeing to give them all my data." For now, mutual distrust between the government and the private sector is keeping the two sides from working together as effectively as possible, and the public could suffer because of it. "The biggest risks right now are not the bad guys," said Schneier. "They are the good guys who are not doing enough." The users do have some responsibility to protect their data online, but the panelists agreed that regular people will usually bypass any extra steps, even if they are in their best interest, in the name of convenience. Google takes on drug cartels . | Experts at the Black Hat conference debate the role of the government in online security .
Congress is considering multiple cybersecurity bills .
Individuals prize convenience over their own security online, attendees say . |
285,776 | fe4de16782c997b1fa97534d488ed00e95451e40 | A Canadian nun was abducted by a gang of armed kidnappers in the early hours of Saturday while working as a missionary in Cameroon. Fears are growing for Sister Gilberte Bissiere, as it was revealed that the gunman targeted the 80-year-old and two Italian priests, but left African religious workers behind. The group had been part of a Catholic mission to help improve water supplies and provide medical help to those with HIV and Aids. Kidnapped: Sister Gilberte Bissiere, from Canada, was abducted along with two priests in Cameroon . Armed forces in Cameroon are said to be trying to find the kidnappers, but officials have not said who was behind the abduction of Sister Gilberte and priests, Giampaolo Marta and Gianantonio Allegri. 'Doors were broken towards midnight by unknown people and the religious were taken away. We do not know where they are,' Bishop Philippe Stevens said. 'The act is not yet claimed but we imagine who is behind this kidnapping,' the Bishop, who is based in Maroua where the kidnapping took place, added. An unidentified priest from Vicenza told Vatican Radio the kidnappers seized Sister Gilberte, but left nuns from Cameroon. Vatican Radio said officials had not ruled out involvement by Islamic fundamentalist group Boko Harem. The terror group has warned Cameroon to stay out of its fight with the Nigerian . military, threatening to carry its war for an Islamic state . into the neighboring country. Pope Francis is said to be aware of the kidnapping and released a statement saying he 'hopes for a rapid and positive solution to the affair'. Abducted: Gianantonio Allegri, left, and Giampaolo Marta, right, are among the kidnap victims . Mission: Vicenza Bishop Beniamino Pizziol, center, with Father Gianantonio Alllegri, right, and Father Giampaolo Marta, left, during a mass near Maroua in Cameroon . Italy has cautioned against travel to the area, which is 20 miles from the border with Nigeria because of the risk of 'kidnappings due to presence of jihadist elements coming from Nigeria'. The priests were assigned from the Vicenza diocese in northern Italy. No one has claimed responsibility, diocese officials said. Father Gianantonio had written to his home diocese last month saying local authorities had advised him to travel with a police escort, the Catholic News Agency reported. 'Even if on the surface you do not notice anything in particular that is alarming, it is palpable in our feelings and our conversations,' he wrote in the letter dated March 12. | Canadian Sister Gilberte Bissiere was taken along with two Italian priests .
Terror group Boko Harem could be behind kidnapping, officials say . |
267,629 | e69ac4ccf204583c565b744bfedfc78800a81fd3 | A Wisconsin man had an asthma attack and died Sunday morning, after police stopped the car rushing him to the hospital. Passenger Casey Kressin, 29, was unresponsive after EMS showed up and took him to St. Joseph's Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, WEAU reported. The car he was in was spotted by police speeding and going past a red light around 2:05am, the Chippewa Falls Police Department said in a release. 'By the time that the officer was able to get close to the vehicle to make a traffic stop, it was probably about a mile later,' Wendy Stelter, the town's Chief of Police, said in an interview with the station. Scroll down for video . Passenger: Casey Kressin was suffering an asthma attack when the vehicle he was in was stopped by police for speeding and running a red light . Incident: The car Kressin was in raced through this traffic light on its way to the hospital . 'When the officer made this traffic stop, there was an adult female that exited the driver's side and there was an adult male that exited the passenger's side,' Stelter also said. The release stated that 'The operator [of the car] yelled to the officer that the man was having an asthma attack and that he needed to get to the emergency room. 'The man knelt down on the pavement near the rear of the stopped vehicle and indicated that he needed his inhaler.' The police officer contacted an emergency dispatcher, and both the cop and the female driver tended to Kressin before EMS showed up around 2:12am, Chippewa Falls police said. Stelter told WEAU 'Just about six minutes later that EMS arrived on scene and um, they then took the patient and transported him to the hospital and he was later pronounced deceased at the - at St. Joseph's Hospital.' Chippewa Falls police said that there was an autopsy at Ramsey County Medical Center in Minnesota. 'What was probably going on in that officer's mind is that "This man is sitting here and I'going to keep him calm until the ambulance arrives,"' Stelter also said. 'It's just very sad because the officer feels that he did what he should have done and I truly support him in that, and yet the family has lost a family member, obviously, and that's just very sad.' Danger: Casey Kressin was unresponsive after EMS showed up several minutes after the car was stopped. His girlfriend Leah Hryniewicki, pictured right, has claimed police did not allow her to keep driving . Emergency: Kressin was transported to St. Joseph's Hospital, where he was pronounced dead . Stelter upheld the officer's choice, and said 'I think the officer made the best decision. It's just so very unfortunate that it's how things fell out.' WQOW reported Kressin's girlfriend, Leah Hryniewicki, was behind the wheel of the car at the time of the incident. She wrote on Facebook that her daughter Paige was also present. 'we got pulled over the cop's won't let me take him to the hospital by the time the ambulance got there casey was not breathing they did cpr the whole way to the hospital and at the hospital he went into cardiac arrest,' she wrote on Facebook. She continued 'I miss him so much and I don't understand why God took 'him from us. The pain he went through waiting for that ambulance and the amount of care he didn't get from the cop's and emt I feel there was more that could of been done.' Hryniewicki had been very upset and her daughter was also one of her passengers, so the officer did not allow her to drive, Stelter told WQOW. | Casey Kressin, 29, was inside a car spotted by police around 2:05am speeding and skipping the red light .
An Chippewa Falls police officer caught up to the car, and contacted EMS when the driver told him of Kressin's asthma attack .
Kressin was unresponsive after EMS showed up and was pronounced dead at a hospital .
Police Chief Wendy Stelter has defended the officer's choice . |
153,742 | 52b0669caacb2cb818dee39984aa118a907d702c | By . Nelson Groom For Daily Mail Australia . News presenter Lincoln Humphries has said the video of him declining to take the ice bucket challege earlier this week was a private video that was never supposed to be made public. The original clip showed Mr Humphries, on the set of WIN news, declining to partake in the ice challenge and urging viewers to ‘stop wasting ice’ and donate to charities helping areas with water shortages instead. Lincoln Humphries featured featured in a viral video earlier this week in which he declined to partake in the icechallenge and urged viewers to 'stop wasting ice' The video went viral, clocking over 1.6 million views and sparking a torrent of media attention. Mr Humphries received a barrage of negative comments on his Facebook page, to which he responded with a post that read: . ‘My message was one of absolute positivity and support for some of the charities which I hold most dear. I apologise without reserve if anyone drew any offence from my comments, he said. But in a new video which aired last night on Nine news, Mr Humphries says that ‘unfortunately a couple of media outlets have ran the line that I since apologised for the video.’ Humphries said in a Facebook post he ' apologises without reserve if anyone drew any offence from my comments,' but that he 'stands by the message,' Mr Humphries says the original clip 'went viral beyond my intentions and beyond my control' Mr Humphries goes on to say ‘The only error of judgement on my part was the use of WIN materials and resources to make what was an absolutely personal statement.’ ‘I made a video and posted it to my own personal wall. I want to make it very very clear this was never intended to go to air.' Mr Humphries says ‘It went viral beyond my intentions and beyond my control.' 'I stand by the message of people doing what they can for whoever they can do it for 100 per cent, because that's what I've believed all my life and I will continue to do so.' | Mr Humphries is a sports presenter at WIN News in Queensland .
He says original clip went viral after it was accidentally made public .
Mr Humphries said it was unfortunate his Facebook apology was covered .
He stands by original video . |
208,632 | 9a23bbe9f3e1bda3798285a13099d3b408cad152 | By . Sara Malm . PUBLISHED: . 16:03 EST, 30 October 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 16:55 EST, 30 October 2013 . One of the key figures within the Muslim Brotherhood has been arrested on charges of inciting supporters to murder his opponents, Egypt's Interior Ministry have confirmed. Essam el-Erian, deputy leader of the Freedom and Justice Party, the Muslim Brotherhood's political phalanx, was taken during an early morning raid on an apartment in New Cairo . The arrest of El-Eiran, who has been on the run since President Mohammed Morsi was ousted in July, saw several violent protests break out at universities across the country, including in Cairo and Alexandria. Raid: This photo of Essam el-Erian, deputy leader of the political arm of the Muslum Brotherhood, was posted on Egypt's Interior Ministry's Facebook page, and is said to show him after his arrest today . El-Erian is also one of the defendants in the Morsi trial. He is accused of inciting Brotherhood followers to break up anti-Morsi protesters gathered outside the presidential palace late last year. In photographs broadcast on state television following his arrest, the smiling 59-year-old el-Erian is wearing a white galabiya, the traditional male robe, and a skullcap. The official state news agency MENA said el-Erian was arrested after a raid on an apartment in the eastern suburb of New Cairo, where he had been hiding. He was later transferred to the Torah prison complex in southern Cairo, where most of the group's arrested leaders are held. The agency said he will be interrogated at Torah on accusations of inciting violence in a number of anti-government protests. The prosecutors later ordered el-Erian detained for 30 days on new accusations of inciting murder and attempted murder, organizing an armed mob and inciting the possession of arms during two protests in Giza against the current government that left more than nine dead. Brotherhood leader: Essam El-Erian, pictured in May this year, has been arrested on charges of inciting supporters to murder his opponents, . Proof: Essam el-Erian, allegedly pictured at the raid of an apartment in eastern Cairo early Wednesday . While Morsi was in power, el-Erian frequently spoke publicly, often causing a stir as he turned from a moderate to a hard-line member of the group. Hours after el-Erian's arrest, pro-Muslim Brotherhood student protesters stormed the administrative building of Al-Azhar Islamic university in Cairo. They smashed windows and equipment while besieging the office of university's chief and other administrators. The assault prompted university officials to call the police to break up the rowdy protests. Riot police forces entered the campus and freed the officials, security officials said. The university, where the Brotherhood has a strong base, has been scene to near-daily protests. Wednesday's protest, however, was the first time students threatened the university president; although they had besieged the administrative building before. Mahmoud Salah, one of the protesters, denied the violence was the work of the students. He accused authorities of planting troublemakers among them to stir the violence. ‘Our protests are peaceful,’ he told reporters. ‘We are against the coup.’ Salah said police forces stormed the campus with armored vehicles and arrested students. Clashes: The arrest led to several violent student protests across Egypt, including in Cairo and Alexandria (file photo of Cairo protests) Television footage of the university showed damage inside the offices. Graffiti covered building walls, including one message inside that read: ‘CC Killer,’ referring to Egypt's military chief Gen. Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi. Clashes between Brotherhood supporters and army supporters erupted on the campuses of universities in Egypt's second largest city, Alexandria, and in the Delta city of Zagazig, leaving at least 22 students injured. In Alexandria, the clashes damaged a university cafeteria, security officials said. Following Morsi's ouster, the country's new, military-backed authorities cracked down on the group, arresting hundreds of Brotherhood figures and putting top leaders on trial. The authorities are seeking to show through the prosecutions that the Brotherhood fueled violence during Morsi's one-year presidency and after the coup. Calls for reconciliation that would return the Brotherhood - which dominated elections after the 2011 fall of Hosni Mubarak - to the political system have gone nowhere, with neither side giving ground. El-Erian's arrest came just hours after three judges presiding over a trial of nearly three dozen Brotherhood members, including its top spiritual leader and its chief financier, stepped down on Tuesday after security agencies refused to let the defendants attend the courtroom sessions. The move was a sharp pushback from within the judiciary over the conduct of the trial amid criticism by the Brotherhood that wide-ranging prosecutions of its leaders, including Morsi and the group's spiritual guide, Mohammed Badie, are only vengeful show trials. Morsi's trial is due to begin on Monday, . yet it has not been confirmed whether the 62-year-old, who has been held . at an undisclosed location since the July coup, will appear. | Deputy leader of Muslim Brotherhood party arrested on Wednesday .
Freedom and Justice Party's Essam el-Erian charged with inciting murder .
He allegedly told Brotherhood supporters to kill their opponents .
El-Erian's arrest led to protests at universities in Cairo and Alexandria . |
126,388 | 2f5784361a824802dcbd8059c3c3b70810e72438 | Lewis Hamilton has continued to make the most of his time away from the track by attending the Louis Vuitton Menswear Fall/Winter 2015-2016 show in Paris on Thursday. The 30-year-old, reigning Formula One champion, was dressed to impress in a navy suit and shiny shoes while sporting his new hairstyle. The 2014 BBC Sports Personality of the Year winner was sporting an even more daring look at the IWC 'Journey To The Stars' Gala Dinner on Tuesday. Lewis Hamilton dressed to impress on Thursday sporting a navy suit and white shirt combo . Lewis Hamilton is led to the entrance of the show with close surveillance from his bodyguard . Hamilton was all smiles as he attended the Louis Vuitton Menswear show on Thursday . There he joined forces with Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger at the glitzy gala in Geneva, while also catching up with rival and Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg. In just over a week's time the first pre-season test will be held in Jerez in preparation of the new F1 season, with Mercedes unveiling their car on the opening morning. Reigning Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton (left) posed for a picture with Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger at a glitzy gala in Geneva on Tuesday . Hamilton (left) caught up with last season's main rival and Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg . The test starts on February 1 and lasts a total of four days. Hamilton will drive the W06 on the second and fourth days, with team-mate Rosberg taking to the wheel on the opening and third days. The new season starts in March in Melbourne, with Hamilton bidding to win his third title. | Lewis Hamilton attended the Louis Vuitton Menswear show on Thursday .
The 30-year-old was dressed to impress with a navy suit and white shirt .
The reigning world champion starts pre-season testing on February 1 ahead of the new Formula One season .
The testing, held in Jerez, will last a period of four days .
Click here for more F1 news . |
47,154 | 84db92f2458fff1f9a6988be8457e0ae026c0a36 | By . Mark Prigg . PUBLISHED: . 14:55 EST, 18 February 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 14:58 EST, 18 February 2014 . King, the firm behind hit mobile phone game Candy Crush Saga, is planning a U.S. stock market debut which some analysts think could value it at more than $5 billion - and lead to a flurry of technology company listings this year. The game, which involves moving candies to make a line of three in the same color, was the most downloaded free app of 2013, and the year's top revenue-grossing app. King, the Swedish firm behind hit mobile phone game Candy Crush Saga, is planning a U.S. stock market debut . The firm has more than 180 titles in 14 languages. The most popular include Candy Crush Saga, Farm Heroes Saga, Papa Pear Saga, Pet Rescue Saga and Bubble Witch Saga. The biggest hit by far is Candy Crush Saga, has been downloaded more than 500 million times since its launch in 2012. Overall the firm has over 324 million average monthly unique users, as of December 31, 2013, across web, social and mobile platforms. It has been downloaded more than 500 million times since its launch in 2012. The basic games are free, but players need to pay for add-ons or extra lives. The successful flotation of Twitter in November and a surge in Facebook shares have fueled speculation that a string of technology firms could come to market, including Spotify, AirBnB and Square, as well as King. But some analysts question whether King can keep up its breakneck pace of growth, particularly given the difficulty some other games makers have experienced in maintaining success. Zynga, the maker of Farmville, has seen its share price halve since its late 2011 initial public offering (IPO), while Finland's Rovio has struggled to replicate the success of its 2010 hit Angry Birds. 'It's (Candy Crush Saga) a hot game and King is a fast-growing company, but obviously you have precedents for these type of companies that have been affected by the boom and bust cycles of the game market,' said Josef Schuster, founder of IPOX Schuster, a Chicago-based IPO research and investment house. The IPO prospectus offered a first glimpse into King's money-making machine, which generated $1.9 billion in revenues in 2013, or $5 million a day. It posted adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) of $825 million in the year, up from $28.5 million in 2012. By comparison, Zynga and Supercell, the company behind Clash of Clans, both earned around $900 million in revenues last year. The game's success has been described as 'staggering' "Candy Crush Saga," the maddeningly addictive mobile game that involves matching bright-hued virtual candies in a row to have them disappear, only to be replaced by more. Adam Krejcik, an analyst at Eilers Research in California, said the results in King's U.S. filing were 'staggering', but noted a slowdown in quarterly revenues at the end of 2013. 'Have we seen peak revenue and bookings for King, or can they make up for declines with other games?' he questioned. King co-founder and CEO Riccardo Zacconi said the group, which is 48.2 percent-owned by private equity firm Apax Partners, had so far launched five games for mobile phones and all had attracted substantial fan-bases. 'Mobile usage is exploding and games are commanding the lion's share of time spent," he said in the prospectus. 'Consumption habits have changed - mobile has meant that people consume more digital content than they ever have before, and they want to be entertained over short periods of time whenever and wherever they are.' Japanese tech and telecoms group Softbank bought 51 percent of Supercell late last year, valuing the firm at $3 billion, or around 6.5 times its 2013 EBITDA. Applying the same multiple to King's 2013 EBITDA would value the firm at around $5.3 billion. 'The risk here is that the company is valued beyond the $7-$10 billion range because it is a hot company,' Schuster said. 'On the first or the second day of trading the company is going to be an expensive buy and if the stock does well in the first month or so there is no room for upside.' King, which plans to list on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "KING", intends to raise up to $500 million in the listing, but the amount a company says it plans to raise in its first IPO filings is used to calculate registration fees and the final size of the IPO could be different. Founded in Sweden in 2003, King was profitable in 2005 and has not had a funding round since September of that year, when it raised 34 million euros ($46 million) from Apax and Index Ventures. In the last few months, it has made more than $500 million in dividend payments - including a $217 million payout this month - to its board of directors, its top executives and major investors. Index Ventures owns 8.3 percent of King. | Game was the most downloaded free app of 2013 .
Has been downloaded more than 500 million times since its launch in 2012 .
King plans to list on the New York Stock Exchange . |
91,966 | 024e5de6ff3e5876fd2b880962e78f1f54c95d22 | Rising star James Vince and Jonathan Trott shared a century stand to preserve England Lions' chances of drawing the second unofficial Test against South Africa A. The fourth-wicket pair joined forces still 80 runs behind, after Adam Lyth and Alex Lees had departed in quick succession following their own 77-run partnership on day three of four in Bloemfontein. Vince (61no) and Trott (53) responded by keeping the home attack at bay for almost 29 overs, the captain reaching his half-century with his seventh four off the 80th ball he faced before being lbw to Test off-spinner Dane Piedt to end a stand of 115. Jonathan Trott, pictured on Saturday during England Lions practice, scored 53 on the third day . Trott and James Vince (pictured) put on 115 runs as the rising star closed on 61 not out . Heavy rain and bad light restricted play after tea, the Lions eventually closing on 212 for four - but only 51 in front - with Vince still unbeaten, having completed his 110-ball 50 with his ninth boundary. Seamers Boyd Rankin (four for 78) and Liam Plunkett (three for 75) were earlier both in the wickets again as the hosts, resuming on 389 for seven, were all out for 421. Trott's tourists conceded a lead of 161 and were almost immediately in more trouble when Test opener Sam Robson edged Rory Kleinveldt on to his stumps for a golden duck, his second single-figure failure of the match. Captain Trott and Vince ensure England go into the final day with a realistic chance of earning a draw . Seamer Boyd Rankin took four for 78 as South Africa A scored 421 in the second innings . Opener Lyth and Lees tried to effect a lasting recovery, but the Lions were 81 for three after the Yorkshire left-handers fell in the space of two overs to teenage seamer Kagiso Rabada. Lyth edged an attempted drive to slip, and then Lees was bowled off his pads. Much therefore depended on Trott and Vince, who did not disappoint and made a stalemate marginally the most likely outcome on the final day - a result which would close out a 0-0 drawn series. | Jonathan Trott scored 53 runs on third day against South Africa A .
Rising star James Vince closed the day on 61 not out .
The pair put on 115 runs as England go into final day 212 for 4 .
The Lions lead South Africa by 51 runs going into the final day . |
241,091 | c41e846af7621add595410804df2010ba931031d | (EW.com) -- In the 1920s-set gangland drama "Lawless," Tom Hardy sheds the metal face-hugger he wore in "The Dark Knight Rises" and shows you what an eloquent actor he can be. He plays Forrest Bondurant, the leader of a family of bootleggers in the Virginia hills. Several years into Prohibition, Forrest learns that his status as a lone-wolf operator is threatened. An effete psycho played by a wildly grotesque Guy Pearce leads a band of government flunkies in bed with the Mob -- and they all want in on the action. To Forrest, though, running his moonshine racket as an independent business is his right as an American. Taking this stand means he's going to face an army of goons, and Hardy, speaking in low, flat, almost musically macho tones, has the bruiser charisma of a caveman Kevin Costner. It's not the money he's clinging to -- it's the freedom. Sage Stallone died from heart condition . "Lawless" is really a Western, with Forrest guarding his turf as fearlessly as Gary Cooper in "High Noon" or Warren Beatty in "McCabe & Mrs. Miller." The film, written by Nick Cave and directed by John Hillcoat, is a sturdy piece of traditionalism with outré touches (like Mark Lanegan's cover of the Velvet Underground's ''White Light/White Heat,'' the perfect anachronistic filigree for a story about white lightning). 'Possession' aims to seize box office crown . But "Lawless" still felt remote to me. The surrounding drama (Shia LaBeouf as the Bondurant kid brother, a greenhorn who learns to fight like a man; Jessica Chastain as a barkeep who swoons for Forrest) is stuffy and derivative. Hardy's presence is compelling, but the film comes fully alive only when it turns bloody. At those moments, though, it has the kick of a mule. Grade: B . See the full article at EW.com. CLICK HERE to Try 2 RISK FREE issues of Entertainment Weekly . © 2011 Entertainment Weekly and Time Inc. All rights reserved. | Tom Hardy is eloquent in the 1920s-set gangland drama "Lawless"
The film, written by Nick Cave and directed by John Hillcoat, is a sturdy piece of traditionalism .
Hardy's presence is compelling, but the film comes fully alive only when it turns bloody . |
284,364 | fc6b8d1c9ec01d32aa9cb01247ee4cfe27e57d07 | Former Baltimore Ravens star Ray Rice has won the appeal of his indefinite suspension and can return to the field immediately in a decision that has sparked outrage across the world. In an email to AP on Friday afternoon, National Football League Players Association spokesman, George Atallah, said: 'I can only confirm the suspension has been vacated, effective immediately.' Under the vacation, approved by former U.S. District Judge Barbara Jones, Rice is now eligible to sign with any NFL team - and can do so as soon as he receives an offer. It comes two months after the footballer was suspended from the league indefinitely after he was filmed punching his wife, Janay Palmer, with his left fist in an elevator at an Atlantic City casino. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . United front: Former Baltimore Ravens star Ray Rice (pictured arriving at court with his wife, Janay Palmer, on November 5) has won his appeal of his indefinite suspension and can return to the field immediately . Shocking footage: It comes two months after the footballer was suspended from the National Football League indefinitely after he was filmed punching Palmer with his left fist in an elevator at an Atlantic City casino . Knocked out: After this elevator security video of the altercation surfaced in September, the Baltimore Ravens released the three-time Pro Bowler, and his $35 million contract, before the NFL suspended him indefinitely . 'It is unbelievable': Within minutes of Judge Jones's decision in the appeal being publicly released, people across America, Britain and elsewhere had taken to social media to express their disgust at the verdict . Within minutes of Judge Jones's decision being publicly released, people across America, Britain and elsewhere had taken to social media to express their disgust at the verdict. Hillary Nadler wrote: 'It is unbelievable that Ray Rice is able to play again. I hope no one signs him,' while Marty Coultas said: 'Who's gonna sign Ray Rice? No one. Not happening.' Detroit-based journalist Ron Fournier tweeted: 'Any poor excuse of a man who hits a woman is kicked out of any self-respecting club. The NFL is a millionaires'/billionaires' club of enablers.' And Andrew Sheehy, from Scarborough in England, added: 'If Ray Rice plays another down in the NFL again, linebackers will line up left, right and center to hit him as hard as they can.' Outrage: Detroit-based journalist Ron Fournier (pictured) tweeted: 'Any poor excuse of a man who hits a woman is kicked out of any self-respecting club. The NFL is a millionaires'/billionaires' club of enablers' Questioning the verdict: Twitter user Marty Coultas said: 'Who's gonna sign Ray Rice? No one. Not happening' Risky business: And Andrew Sheehy, from Scarborough in England, added: 'If Ray Rice plays another down in the NFL again, linebackers will line up left, right and center to hit him as hard as they can' Suspension: NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell (left) pauses as he speaks during a news conference in New York. Right, Rice smiles on the sideline during the second half of a game against the San Francisco 49ers . However, not everyone was opposed to Rice rejoining the game, with Twitter user AJ Gould saying: 'Glad Ray Rice got reinstated... Hope Roger Goodell gets fired!' Initially, Rice was suspended by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell for only two games following the one-punch knockout of his then-fiancée in an elevator at the New Jersey-based casino in February. However, after security video of the altercation surfaced on TMZ in September, the Ravens released the three-time Pro Bowler, and his $35 million contract, and the NFL suspended him indefinitely. Criticism over the two-day action led the NFL to toughen its penalties on domestic violence, with Mr Goodell admitting in a letter to team owners that he 'didn't get it right'. On the field: During the appeal, Rice's lawyers and the union argued the league had overstepped its authority in modifying the player's (pictured) two-game suspension, saying he was being 'sentenced' twice . Couple: In addition to testimonies from both Rice and Palmer (pictured together)- who supported her husband - Judge Jones heard from NFL security chief Jeffrey Miller and Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome . During the appeal, Rice's lawyers and the union argued the league had overstepped its authority in modifying former running back's two-game suspension, saying he was being 'sentenced' twice. In addition to testimonies from both Rice and Palmer - who supported her husband - Judge Jones heard from NFL security chief Jeffrey Miller and Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome. In her decision on Friday, Judge Jones wrote: 'Because Rice did not mislead the commissioner and because there were no new facts on which the commissioner could base his increased suspension, I find that the imposition of the indefinite suspension was arbitrary. Expressing shock: Twitter user Joey D said: 'I'd be shocked if any team even went near Ray Rice this season' Difference in opinion: However, not everyone was opposed to Rice rejoining the game, with Twitter user AJ Gould (pictured) saying: 'Glad Ray Rice got reinstated... Hope Roger Goodell gets fired!' 'I therefore vacate the second penalty imposed on Rice. The provisions of the first discipline - those regarding making continued use of counseling and other professional services, having no further involvement with law enforcement, and not committing any additional violations of league policies - still stand.' Earlier this month, Palmer - now Janay Rice - spoke to ESPN about the Atlantic City incident, saying it stemmed from an 'insignificant' argument between her and her husband. She told the broadcaster: 'As we were arguing, he was on his phone and not looking at me. I went to reach for his phone, and when he grabbed it back, he spit at me and I slapped him. 'We got into the elevator and what happened inside is still foggy to me. The only thing I know - and I can't even say I "remember" because I only know from what Ray has told me - is that I slapped him again and then he hit me. I remember nothing else from inside the elevator.' After coming round in the casino lobby, surrounded by police, Palmer was taken to the police station with her husband, who kept telling her 'It's going to be okay. We'll be okay'. Explaining her decision for standing by Rice, she said although she was 'angry', she 'knew it wasn't him' and he had never acted like that before. 'No matter how long we have known each other and no matter what the circumstance is, Ray understands that violent behavior like this, even one time, is never acceptable,' she said. Another disgraced footballer: In September, Minnesota Vikings' star running back Adrian Peterson (pictured) was arrested for disciplining his four-year-old son by striking him with a wooden switch . Rice is not the only NFL player to have sparked anger among fans due to alleged violence. In September, Minnesota Vikings' star running back Adrian Peterson was arrested for disciplining his four-year-old son by striking him with a wooden switch. Peterson pleaded no contest in a Texas courtroom to a misdemeanor assault charge following his arrest and was told to pay a $4,000 (£2,550) fine and undertake community service. The NFL did not immediately comment on Rice's verdict. | Ex-NFL star filmed punching his wife Janay Palmer with left fist in elevator .
He was suspended indefinitely by league after video surfaced in September .
But on Friday, Judge Barbara Jones 'vacated' the footballer's suspension .
Rice can sign with any NFL team - and can do so as soon as he gets offer .
Decision has sparked outrage online, with many deeming it 'unbelievable' |
125,879 | 2eb88eb9a8da18b4eeab4e47349d5d2abc9c76ce | (CNN) -- John Mensah proved the match-winner for Ghana as they beat Botswana 1-0 at the Africa Cup of Nations but his side had to fight hard for their victory after the defender was sent off. Mensah struck the only goal of the game on 25 minutes but will now miss Ghana's next match with Mali after he was shown a straight red card for a professional foul. Ghana's ten-men clung onto to three points to go top of Group D, while they were later joined by Mail who beat Guinea 1-0 thanks to Bakaye Traore's goal. Mensah, who plays for French club Lyon, bundled a corner into the net with his knee after a flick on from Asamoah Gyan, who is on loan at Al-Ain in the United Arab Emirates from English club Sunderland. African ambition: Tiny nations host football feast . Gyan had a chance to double Ghana's lead soon after but he blazed over the crossbar before Botswana squandered their best chance when John Boye cleared Moemedi Moatlhaping's header. Mensah was dismissed in the 67th minute, bringing down Jerome Ramatlhokwane as the striker raced clear on goal, but Botswana couldn't force an equalizer. "We controlled the game until the red card for Mensah," Ghana coach Goran Stevanovic was reported as saying by the AFP news agency. "We created some chances but they closed down the game with 10 men behind the ball. "All the same, it was very important that we won our first game of a tournament that has already produced some surprises." Botswana coach Stanley Tshosane defended his team's defensive tactics. "I'm not happy with the result but with the performance especially in the second half," said Tshosane. "We were cautious at the beginning because we have never played Ghana before at this level and so we preferred to study how they play." Mali are also on three points after they saw off Guinea in the Gabonese capital of Franceville. The only goal of the match was scored when Bakaye Traore's long range strike deflected off a defender to loop over Guinea's goalkeeper Naby Yattara on the half hour mark. | Ghana beat Botswana 1-0 in Africa Cup of Nations Group D match .
John Mensah scores the winner for Ghana but then gets sent off .
Ten-men hang on for victory as Ghana take control of Group D .
Mali beat Guinea 1-0 in other Group D game thanks to Bakaye Traore goal . |
168,673 | 6630c6bc3576bd6da3c64a5cd82fb47c00a0dc0b | A British holidaymaker has plunged to her death in a freak accident whilst she was on a Mediterranean holiday with her husband. Kay Flitcroft, 30, fell over a wall and tumbled 30 feet whilst walking late at night on the Spanish island of Menorca after staying out with friends when her husband returned to their accommodation. Her husband Ben, 34, an executive officer manager realised something was wrong when he woke up the next morning to find his wife missing. Kay Flitcroft, 30, fell over a wall and tumbled 30 feet on the Spanish island of Menorca. Her husband Ben, 34, an executive officer manager realised something was wrong when he woke up the next morning to find his wife missing . He dashed out of his holiday apartment . only to spot an ambulance at the scene of the tragedy. Mrs Flitcroft, a . betting shop manageress was taken to hospital but died later that . night. Today . an investigation was underway into Mrs Flitcroft's death but is thought . Spanish authorities are treating it as a tragic accident. The . couple, from Blackpool, Lancs, were part way through their holiday at the resort . of Cala En Porter where they met up with her parents who had retired to . the island. Last Friday they . were in a bar near their apartment watching England play Peru on television . during the pre-World Cup football friendly. Mr Flitcroft said: 'Kay was the life and soul of the party. She never wanted to miss anything and always wanted to be the last to leave. I've lost my soulmate' The couple married at the White Church, in Lytham St Annes, on July 30, 2011 and honeymooned in Portugal. Mrs Flitcroft worked as a branch manager at William Hill bookmakers in Blackpool . After . the match Mr Flitcroft said he was going to bed, but Mrs Flitcroft said . she was staying out for a short while and it is thought she went for a . walk. In . a statement Mr Flitcroft said: 'We were having good times - eating, . drinking and having fun as we always did. We were with friends we had . met over there in previous years. 'I'd . had enough so she said the same thing she always said, 'You don't mind . if I stay out for a bit do you?' 'That was the last time I saw her, she . didn't come home. 'I . woke up at seven o'clock in the morning and she wasn't there, so I rang . round a few people here and no one had seen sight of her since the . night before. 'I heard an ambulance outside so I ran to where it was, and there she was. My world then ended.' Mrs . Flitcroft was taken by ambulance to a hospital on the island, where she . was accompanied by Mr Flitcroft and her parents Roger, 63, and Sue . Isherwood, 61. She was later transferred by air ambulance to Palma de Mallorca, on the neighbouring island of Mallorca. But . doctors were unable to save her and Mr Flitcroft received a call at . 8.30am on the Sunday morning to inform them she had died at 11.30pm the . previous night. Mr Flitcroft . added: 'Kay was the life and soul of the party. She never wanted to . miss anything and always wanted to be the last to leave. I've lost my . soulmate.' The couple, from Blackpool, Lancs, were part way through their holiday at the resort of Cala En Porter (pictured) where they met up with her parents who had retired to the island . Mrs Flitcroft - a . keen hockey player - was born and raised in Blackpool and attended the . 118 year old Arnold School where fees cost £9,060 a year and former . alumni include a Nobel Prize-winner, the founder of Jaguar Cars and . ex-footballer Jimmy Armfield. She studied at Liverpool Hope University before worked as an English teacher in South Korea. She met her husband-to-be through her brother Michael with whom he played football. The couple married at the White Church, in Lytham St Annes, on July 30, 2011 and honeymooned in Portugal. Mrs Flitcroft worked as a branch manager at William Hill bookmakers in Blackpool. Mr Flitcroft who runs his own telecoms and advertising businesses said: 'All the customers loved her and the staff loved her. She loved her friends and she's got hundreds of friends. 'People have been absolutely fantastic and she was one hell of a person. We were brilliant together and we were soulmates. She was such a good person and she was my best friend in the whole world.' Mrs Flitcroft's parents have been living on the island for the past six months after retiring from running a newsagents. It is thought they may return to live in England. The family flew back into Liverpool's John Lennon Airport on Monday night. Spanish police say it could take up to four weeks before Mrs Flitcroft's body is returned, pending investigations. In a message on Facebook, the family said: 'Kay's husband and family would like to thank everyone for their support & messages during this hard time. 'They would really like everyone's help in raising some money to cover the cost of hospital fees and bringing Kay back home so she can be laid to rest.' Louise Gamble, 30, who had been Mrs Flitcroft's best friend for 20 years. She said: 'It is just devastating and I'm shocked. She was funny, outgoing and loved life.' Paula Morris said: 'She was an amazing young lady and we loved her so much..' A spokesman for the Foreign Office said: 'We are aware of reports and are investigating.' | Kay Flitcroft, 30, fell over a wall and tumbled 30 feet at the weekend .
Her husband Ben, 34, woke up the next morning to find his wife missing .
An investigation is underway into Mrs Flitcroft's death .
The couple from Blackpool, Lancs, married in 2011 . |
29,562 | 54056eef95a0e7d6e26089ab8f57c3eeb79e2ea3 | By . Damien Gayle . PUBLISHED: . 07:04 EST, 12 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 10:57 EST, 13 March 2013 . When Jeremy Clarskon showed off his personally-designed robotic car on a recent episode of Top Gear it was described as the world's smallest. But inventors in Japan have gone one better - developing a tiny car that can automatically take passengers from A to B without them having to do a thing. Japanese tech conglomerate Hitachi today revealed its new Robot for Personal Intelligent Transport System (Ropits, for short) in the city of Tsukuba in the Ibaraki Prefecture. Mini motors: Jeremy Clarkson's P45, allegedly the world's smallest car unveiled on Top Gear last month (left), and the new robot for Personal Intelligent Transport System revealed by Japanese firm HItachi (right) No licence needed: The one man mobility robot can pick-up and drop off a passenger autonomously . No need to move: Clarkson designed the P45 himself and tested the vehicle on the streets of Guildford . The one man mobility robot can pick-up . and drop off a passenger autonomously, while, in emergencies, . passengers can seize control of the vehicle using a joystick controller . in the cockpit. Originally . developed to help those who have difficulty walking - an increasing . number of people in Japan's ageing society - Ropits is designed to be . small enough to move through pedestrian spaces. Clarkson . unveiled the P45, designed by the presenter himself, in February on the . first episode of Top Gear's most recent series. Clarkson . tested the four-wheel vehicle on the streets of Guildford, hitting . 34mph at one stage as he weaved around traffic in the tiny vehicle. Look ma, no hands! But passengers can seize control of the vehicle using a joystick in an emergency . Tomorrow's world: Autonomous, single-user public transport has long been predicted for the future . Looking uncomfortable within the car's miniscule frame, Clarkson said: 'I’m just staggered that Ford, GM, Toyota, all of the automotive giants haven’t thought to make a car like this yet.' The Japanese robot is equipped with GPS to allow it to find its way, as well as laser distance sensors to look out for obstacles and a gyro sensor to help it stay upright while negotiating uneven ground. Passengers need only specify their desired destination on a touch-screen map and the machine will automatically drive them there. Similarly, anyone who needs a ride will be able to call a Ropits vehicle from any number of computer-networked 'stops' dotted around the city. The vehicle is also equipped with 'active suspension' which controls each wheel individually to enable it to tackle curbs and uneven ground while keeping passengers comfortably upright. Squeezed in: Clarkson hit a top speed of 34mph in the vehicle and was pictured overtaking static traffic, despite looking slightly uncomfortable . Lightweight: Passengers enter the Ropits vehicle by means of a front hatch . Unruffled: The system could be the perfect answer for Japan's busy corporate class of 'salary men' | Hitachi revealed the Robot for Personal Intelligent Transport System .
Robot uses GPS to carry passengers in city of Japanese city of Tsukuba .
Jeremy Clarkson recently unveiled the P45 allegedly the world's smallest car . |
189,713 | 81ab2e3d221326b3d90e1098cb11b2dee94b182f | (Mental Floss) -- Divorce is almost always a messy business, but certain settlements between former beloveds can be somewhat absurd. Here's a look at some examples of offbeat divorce settlements. 1. Now that's a breakup record . Marvin Gaye was a tremendous singer, but he wasn't always so great at keeping track of his personal finances. He spent lavishly, which meant that he often couldn't cover his bills. He was having particularly big trouble footing the bill for his 1977 divorce from Anna Gordy, so Gaye's lawyer worked out a novel settlement: Gaye would record a new album and give all of the royalties to Gordy as alimony. Gaye headed into the studio and recorded the double album "Here, My Dear" to fulfill this deal with Gordy. Unfortunately for Gordy, critics and audiences didn't love Gaye's divorce-themed concept album; although today's critics praise the album, it was the singer's worst charting record of the 1970s. 2. Don't hassle his attorney, either . As part of actor David Hasselhoff's 2008 divorce settlement with ex-wife Pamela Bach, he got to keep total possession of the nickname "Hoff" and the catchphrase "Don't Hassle the Hoff." Mental Floss: 6 David and Goliath trademark disputes . 3. If only divorce lawyers had their own Nobel . Nobel laureates may be some of the world's smartest people, but even they can bungle their divorce settlements. Take Robert Lucas, the 1995 winner of the economics prize. As part of his 1988 divorce settlement, his ex-wife got half of the funds from any future Nobel win, so when Lucas picked up the prize in 1995, he forked over half of the cash to his ex. Lucas must have been particularly irritated that the divorce settlement clause actually expired in 1995, so if he had nabbed the Nobel in 1996 he wouldn't have had to share his brainy booty. Lucas could at least take comfort in knowing he was in good company. All of Albert Einstein's prize money from his 1921 win in physics went to his ex-wife, Mileva Maric. 4. At least this is equitable . Cambodian couple Moeun Sarim and Vat Navy had been married for 18 years when they decided to part ways last year. Husband Moeun accused his wife of infidelity, so he decided to take the whole "splitting everything 50-50" concept to its logical conclusion. Moeun had his family come over and cut away half of the couple's 20' x 24' house. While his wife's half of the marital home remained standing, he deconstructed his own portion and carried the building supplies back to his parents' home. 5. Man really gets his wife's goat . Australian Steve Killeen managed to get his ex-wife's goat in their divorce. Literally. When Killeen and his wife split, he ended up with her pet goat, which he now takes for daily walks through Sydney. 6. Let us now divide any shared organs . Earlier this year, Long Island's Dr. Richard Batista made an odd request during his divorce: he wanted his allegedly unfaithful wife to return the kidney he'd given her. Dr. Batista gave his wife, Dawnell, a kidney in 2001, and as part of the messy divorce he claimed that he would either like the organ or compensation of $1.5 million. Legal scholars were skeptical of Batista's request given that a) organ donation is legally a gift, not a loan and b) losing her ex-husband's kidney would have been ruinous for Dawnell Batista's health. The court rejected Batista's claim earlier this year. Mental Floss: 11 body parts named after people . 7. Better than hotel soaps . When hotelier Conrad Hilton married the younger Hungarian actress and beauty queen Zsa Zsa Gabor in 1942, the union raised some eyebrows. Eventually, Gabor got tired of Hilton and began sleeping with her stepson, Nicky. Hilton and Gabor ended up divorcing in 1947, and she picked up $275,000 in the process. Gabor later joked, "Conrad Hilton was very generous in the divorce settlement. He gave me 5,000 Gideon Bibles." 8. Writer keeps his ex close . Prolific Belgian author Georges Simenon requested an odd stipulation in his 1949 divorce from his wife Tigy. Simenon's ex got a large alimony, one she later said was comparable to a top executive's salary during the 1950s, but she had to live no more than six miles away from Simenon so he could always see his children. 9. Peter Sellers' timing just a little off . In 1980, Peter Sellers was in the process of divorcing his fourth wife, Lynne Frederick, when he dropped dead from a sudden heart attack at the age of 54. Unfortunately for Sellers' children, their father hadn't gotten around to amending his will to reflect his cooling feelings for Frederick, and the divorce was not yet finalized. As a result, Frederick inherited Sellers' £4.5 million ($7.3 million) estate and the rights to all of his work, while the Sellers children got a meager £750 ($1,213) each. Within six months Frederick was married again, this time to celebrity journalist David Frost, but that union only lasted a year. Mental Floss: 13 bizarre stipulations in wills . 10. Charles and Diana's divorce Is a royal pain . When Prince Charles and Princess Diana divorced in 1996, there were all sorts of odd assets to divvy up. For starters, there was the issue of titles. Diana lost the right to be called "Her Royal Highness," a move that peerage experts said was unprecedented. She did, however, retain the right to live in Kensington Palace, her jewelry, and the right to entertain at St. James's Palace with the Queen's permission. While Diana also picked up a financial settlement of $22.5 million, she lost a variety of honorary military titles as well. For more mental_floss articles, visit mentalfloss.com . Entire contents of this article copyright, Mental Floss LLC. All rights reserved. | Nothing says "gimme" like the divorce settlement process .
Marvin Gaye did an album for his divorce settlement -- it tanked .
David Hasselhoff's divorce settlement gave him catchphrase "Don't Hassle the Hoff"
One man asked for his kidney back, another got his wife's goat . |
142,217 | 43ead2bc4078ff54d8abeebb3d559dc9ce1631aa | By . John Hutchinson . Last updated at 7:54 PM on 6th October 2011 . Volkswagen is recalling 168,275 cars equipped with diesel engines because of a defect in the fuel injection system that could cause fuel leaks and fires. The recall affects certain 2009-2012 Jetta midsize cars, and some 2010 through 2012 Golf small cars, as well as some Audi A3 models from the 2010 through 2012 model years, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said Thursday on its website. Danger: Volkswagen cars, such as the Jettas pictured, are being recalled in mass numbers over a fear that certain diesel engines are faulty and can cause fires . 2009-2012 Jetta midsize cars . 2010-2012 Golf small cars . 2010-2012 Audi A3 models . Note: Not all of the above will be recalled as only certain models are likely to be affected. All are equipped with two-litre TDI diesel engines. Cracks can develop in the fuel injection system and cause fuel to leak, possibly causing fires, VW said in documents filed with federal safety regulators. However, the company said in the documents that it doesn't know of any fires, crashes or injuries caused by the problem. Fuel injectors squirt fuel into the cylinder, where it is ignited. The resulting explosion pushes the pistons, which move to power the cars. On some of the VW diesels, a vibration given off by the injectors can cause stress that eventually can lead to cracks in the injector fuel lines, VW said. Volkswagen will replace a fuel injector line in some models and install dampers to cut the vibrations on all of them. Faulty: It is back to the drawing board for many Volkswagen cars after the latest revelations regarding a faulty fuel injection system . The repairs will be made free of charge. The recall is expected to start in November, NHTSA said. The recall includes 161,144 Golf and Jetta models and another 7,131 Audi A3s. The Jettas, including SportWagens, were made from May 2008 through September of 2011, while the Golfs were made from May of 2009 through September of 2011. The A3 models were made from September of 2009 through September of 2011. About 20 percent of the cars built during those time periods will need to have fuel lines replaced, and all will the vehicles will get the vibration dampers, VW said. More than 20 percent of the Volkswagens sold in the U.S. have diesel engines. | Certain Jetta, Golf and Audi A3 models most likely to be recalled .
Fuel at risk of leaking causing engine fires .
Recall expected to start in November - and repairs will be free of charge . |
287,025 | ffe4d587f4542983b22ba1c3b227a3cf76d1ff88 | A Michigan hockey player and obvious Super Troopers fan did the 2001 cult favorite proud during a mid-game interview this week. Ray Kaunisto, of the Kalamazoo Wings, gave an on-ice interview during his team's match against the Fort Wayne Komets on November 28, managing to sneak in seven 'meows' during the 40-second chat. The goal was 10, as per an infamous Super Troopers scene where an officer bets another he can't say 'meow' 10 times during a traffic stop, in what the pair call 'The Cat Game'. 'I thought about doing it a little bit before and then I just figured just let it rip and see what happens,' Kaunisto told MLive. Scroll down for videos . Champion: Kalamazoo Wings player fan Ray Kaunisto did cult comedy Super Troopers proud during a mid-game interview this week, dropping 'meow' into the 40-second chat seven times . Almost there: The aim was to say 'meow' 10 times, as per the infamous Super Troopers scene . Profile: The 27-year-old is a five-year pro from Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan . 'I almost chickened out. I almost didn't do it, but I kind of just went with it.' And lucky he did. Not only has the interview gone viral, Kaunisto said his little game actually helped him on the ice. 'To be honest, I wasn't playing that well right before the interview happened,' Kaunisto said. 'I think that really helped me out and kept me composed. Any other time I probably would've started laughing.' In the video the interview appears oblivious what Kaunisto is doing. Infamous: This silly scene from Super Troopers created 'The Cat Game', after two officers wage a bet whether one can say 'meow' 10 times during a traffic stop . 'Right meow we came out, hit a few guys quickly there,' he said. 'We got to get into the corners meow, and maybe pass the puck a couple more times down in the neutral zone there meow. 'Right meow our focus is on banking as many points meow, but right meow, we're doing a pretty good job coming out and getting the first goal. 'Thanks meow.' | Ray Kaunisto of the Kalamazoo Wings gave an on-ice interview during match against the Fort Wayne Komets on November 28 .
Decided to play a game made famous by 2001 comedy Super Troopers .
Aim is to drop 'meow' into a conversation 10 times, as seen in the film .
Afterwards Kaunisto said the interview helped him play better . |
217,635 | a5c3b31e11b40ce53339e61af45b936999804f67 | (CNN)Prime Minister Tony Abbott has shirt-fronted the Australian public by awarding a Knighthood to a foreigner who already has a lot silverware in the pool room: Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. As the nation choked on its cornflakes, many took to social media to express shock and dismay and repeat the question, "Is this a joke?" At an Australia Day function in Canberra, Abbott was forced to defend his decision and dismissed the reaction on Twitter as "electronic graffiti." "I think that in the media, you make a big mistake to pay too much attention to social media. You wouldn't report what's sprayed up on the walls of buildings," Abbott was quoted as saying in the Sydney Morning Herald. Of Prince Philip, Abbott said: "He's the patron of hundreds of organizations. He's the inspiration and wellspring of the Duke of Edinburgh's Awards which have provided leadership training for tens if not hundreds of thousands of Australians over the years." The 93-year-old duke is the only son of Prince Andrew of Greece, whose ancestors hail from Danish royalty. He married in Queen Elizabeth II in 1947, who is head of the Commonwealth and is required to sign off on Abbott's decision, an irony not lost on Australia's comedians. Gift for Santa? More like a gift to Republicans, some said. Abbott reintroduced damehoods and knighthoods last year, 28 years after they were retired under the leadership of Bob Hawke's Labor government. At the time, Abbott said the honor of becoming a "Knight and Dame of the Order of Australia" would be extended to "Australians of extraordinary and pre-eminent achievement and merit." "My intention is that this new award will go to those who have accepted public office rather than sought it and who can never, by virtue of that office, ever entirely return to private life," he said. So far, only one dame and three knights have been appointed, including Air Chief Marshal Sir Angus Houston, who has most recently led operations to recover lost Malaysian flights MH370 and MH17. Opposition leader Bill Shorten said Australia had entered a timewarp to extend the honor to English royalty. "It's not about him, but he's a British royal -- why would we give him our top Australian honor? He's already got a lot of them," he said. Some wondered how Prince Philip would react to the announcement. For others, it was an opportunity to revive some the Duke's famous quotes. Some thought it was sure sign Phil could take some of Australia's other top honors. And then there was the lone voice, calling for calm... sort of. At the time of writing, Buckingham Palace had yet to release an official statement. Though its Twitter account posted a link to learn more about "the Australian Royal Family." Abbott didn't take to Twitter to try to stifle the spray of e-graffiti. His contribution to the great wall of outrage was a simple. Not likely, 'Straya says. | Social media storm over Australian PM's decision to knight Prince Philip .
One of two knighthoods announced on Australia Day .
Tony Abbott dismisses social media reaction as "electronic graffiti" |
60,066 | aaa023bafcd002d57e6994eff7b65a0ec0a9abb2 | The distraught family of murdered bride Anni Dewani yesterday said the unanswered questions about her husband’s actions would haunt them forever. They spoke as Shrien Dewani was dramatically cleared of murdering Anni during the couple’s honeymoon in South Africa. The millionaire businessman was freed after a judge halted his trial. He had not even had to testify. Anguish: Anni Dewani's sister Ami weeps yesterday as she talks about the decision to free Shrien Dewani . Freed: The millionaire businessman was freed after a judge halted his trial. He had not even had to testify . Judge Jeanette Traverso ruled that the evidence against him was ‘riddled with contradictions’. But she added that it was ‘regrettable’ that so many things remained unclear surrounding the murder of Anni, who was shot in a staged carjacking as she was driven through a notorious township four years ago. Anni’s family fled Cape Town’s high court as the ruling was announced, and later wept as they declared: ‘The justice system has failed us.’ Her father Vinod has pledged to sue Dewani for not revealing his homosexuality and leading his daughter and the family into a marriage that was a sham. Dewani, 34, his hair cut neatly, remained impassive as he was formally told he was not guilty before briefly returning to the court cells where he took a selfie of himself with a police officer on a mobile phone, witnesses said. Lies: Anni's father Vinod has pledged to sue Dewani for not revealing his homosexuality and leading his daughter and the family into a marriage that was a sham . Judge: Dewani was found not guilty after Cape Town High Court judge Jeanette Traverso (pictured) ruled that the prosecution's case did not have sufficient evidence to convict him . The whole family are expected to return to their home in Bristol in the next couple of days as soon as Dewani leaves the South African psychiatric hospital where he has been held since losing his four-year extradition battle earlier this year. On the court steps, Anni’s sister, Ami Denborg wept as she said: ‘The justice system has failed us. We came here looking for answers and we came here looking for the truth and all we got was more questions. ‘We never heard the full story of Shrien. We heard that Shrien has a led double life and that Anni knew nothing about it. ‘The knowledge of not ever knowing what happened to my dearest little sister on the 13th November 2010 is going to haunt me, my family, my brother, my parents for the rest of our lives.’ Dewani, who admitted sleeping with gay prostitutes during his courtship of Anni, was accused of plotting with taxi driver Zola Tongo to arrange for two hitmen to kill his new wife a fortnight after they married at a £200,000 wedding in India. Tongo, gunman Mziwamadoda Qwabe and middleman Monde Mbolombo all told the court that she was murdered at the request of her husband for a payment of £1,200. But the judge dismissed it as ‘improbable’ testimony of ‘self-confessed liars.’ She said: ‘It contained so many mistakes, lies and inconsistencies that one simply cannot know where the lies end and the truth begins.’ Distraught: Anish Hindocha wipes away the tears with father Vinod Hindocha and mother Nilam as they address the media outside the court after the not guilty verdict . Outside court, prosecutors insisted the judge had not gone as far as declaring Dewani innocent. Spokesman Nathi Ncube said: ‘To say we’ve got an innocent man is an unfair statement because he was implicated by three witnesses and…the court can only pronounce on those witnesses.’ Anni’s uncle Ashok spoke of the family’s fury, saying they had been denied the full story and would suffer ‘sleepless nights for the rest of our lives’. He told MailOnline: ‘We will always live without ever knowing the complete events. ‘But she would not have married him if she had known about his secret sex life with male prostitutes. Neither would we have, as a family, condoned [such] a union. ‘We will now go through this case with our lawyers to confirm whether we can file a lawsuit against Shrien Dewani in the UK.’ Tongo and Qwabe are both serving reduced jail sentences for murder in return for testifying against Dewani. It will be up to prosecutors if Mbolombo faces criminal proceedings after the judge removed his immunity for being a state witness. Xolile Mngeni, the second hit man, died in jail during the trial. | Shrien Dewani cleared of murdering bride Anni on honeymoon .
Judge Jeanette Traverso dismisses case against the British millionaire .
She ruled evidence against Dewani was 'riddled with contradictions'
He did not even have to testify, to the anger of Anni's family . |
118,898 | 25894cafa616b999ff1784e7f72c6ec790f58c9a | By . Lydia Warren . PUBLISHED: . 08:26 EST, 10 February 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 14:35 EST, 10 February 2014 . Julia Mancuso has won bronze in the women's alpine skiing super combined, taking her Olympic medal tally to four - the most ever for an American female alpine skier. The 29-year-old, from Squaw Valley, California, punched the air after coming in just 0.53 seconds behind gold medal winner Maria Hoefl-Riesch of Germany on Monday. Hoefl-Riesch won with a combined time of 2:34.62, 0.40 seconds ahead of Nicole Hosp of Austria in second. Hoefl-Riesch was fifth fastest in the downhill, but her superior slalom skills gave her the gold. Scroll down for video . Winner: Julia Mancuso, 29, reacts after competing in the slalom run of the women's alpine skiing super combined event, in which she won a bronze medal. It is her fourth Olympic medal . Medalists: Austria's Nicole Hosp (left) took silver, Germany's Maria Hoefl-Riesch (center) took gold and Mancuso (right) took bronze. She told reporters she hoped to take a medal in memory of her grandfather . Mancuso's Olympic tally includes a gold in giant slalom from the 2006 Turin Olympics and silvers in downhill and super-combined in Vancouver in 2010. She also competed in the 2002 Olympics. Her number of medal wins are the most ever for an American female Alpine skier. Lindsey Vonn is behind her, having gained two medals in Vancouver in 2010. Going into Sochi, Mancuso was the . fourth-ranked female Alpine skier in the world. In 2013, she gained . medals in 10 World Cup races. Ahead of Monday's win, she said she was competing for her maternal grandfather, Denny Tuffanelli, who died little more than a year ago. Her grandmother is in Sochi to watch her compete. Success: Mancuso poses with her medal after the medal ceremony for the Women's Super Combined event . Excitement: Mancuso, who wore a tiara to the ceremony, previously said that it is a symbol of confidence and should be worn whether or not you're winning. She has an underwear line called 'Kiss My Tiara' Julia Mancuso holds the record for the number of Olympic medals won by an American female alpine skier: . Gold for Giant Slalom at Turin 2006Silver for Downhill at Vancouver 2010Silver for Combined at Vancouver 2010Bronze for Combined at Sochi 2014 . She had tweeted before the win: 'My grandpa is smiling down . at me from heaven and saying I can be proud no matter what happens! This one's for you Grandpa Denny :) #discotime' The event, which includes a downhill run and a slalom run, tests racers' all-around ability to be fast and technically correct. But the course proved to be challenging, especially on a steep slalom track as clouds hovered above. Mancuso . won the silver medal for combined four years ago in Vancouver, but . trained very little in slalom in the run up to this year's event. USA Today predicted that other women would pass her during the slalom event. 'Slalom . for me is kind of like a game of luck,' Mancuso had said a few days . ago. 'Roll the dice and it's on, or roll the dice and it's off.' Joy: After the win, Mancuso shared this photo on Instagram, writing: 'What!!!!!! #Sochi2014 #sochiselfie #bronze can't believe it' For Grandpa: Ahead of her win, she tweeted that she was racing for her grandfather, who died a year ago . Proud: Mancuso is pictured with her grandmother Sheila Tuffanelli, whose husband passed away a year ago . Before heading to Sochi, Mancuso posed in a revealing catsuit with a scooped back for a photo shoot featured in GQ. 'It's . not a shock to me when I have a good race,' she told the magazine. 'I . started to tell people I’d just worn my lucky underwear.' And . she knows a thing or two about underwear as in 2010, she designed her . own underwear line, Kiss My Tiara - merging her active lifestyle with . her dream . of becoming a fashion designer. Of . the name, she explained: 'My belief is everyone is a princess and . rocking the tiara everyday no matter if you're winning or losing is . something to just believe in yourself. It's a sign of self confidence.' In action: Mancuso looks determined as she competes in the slalom portion of the super combined on Monday . Joy: Mancuso, from California, is pictured celebrating at Sochi after nabbing her fourth medal . Baring all: She told GQ ahead of Sochi that it didn't surprise her when she had a successful run . | Julia Mancuso, 29, from California, holds the record for most Olympic medals ever won by an American female alpine skier .
She won bronze on Monday's alpine skiing super combined behind Germany's Maria Hoefl-Riesch and Austria's Nicole Hosp .
She said she was competing for her grandfather, who died a year ago . |
59,271 | a841aa59193db79a8df38c0835889a95a7df2948 | Laura Jane Thomas, 20, was killed when a lorry driver crashed into her as he looked at pornography . A lorry driver who killed a young bride-to-be while looking at pornography on his phone has been jailed for just five years. Ian Glover, 44, was flicking through pictures of women on an explicit dating website when his 44-ton Mercedes ploughed into a parked car. Teaching assistant Laura Jane Thomas, 20, and her fiance Lewis Pagett, 19, had broken down and pulled on to a grass verge with their hazard lights on. The childhood sweethearts, who had . been together since the age of 13, got out and were standing behind a . safety barrier when Glover ploughed into their Vauxhall on the A5 . between Telford and Shrewsbury in Shropshire. As a result of the smash, the car flew over the barrier, killing Miss Thomas while her fiance was on the phone to his father. Glover, . who had worked as a driver for Sainsbury’s for ten years, admitted . causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by . dangerous driving. He was jailed for just five years at Shrewsbury Crown . Court on Friday. Miss . Thomas’s mother, Lisa, spoke last night of her outrage at the short . sentence. She said Glover should have been jailed for 14 years, the . maximum sentence for death by dangerous driving. ‘A five-year sentence for killing our . beautiful daughter is just not enough in our eyes,’ she said. ‘What is . worse is he could get a shorter sentence if he’s well behaved. The crash happened when Miss Thomas and her fiancé Lewis Pagett, pictured above, broke down at the side of the road. They were standing behind a safety barrier when the lorry careered into their parked car . ‘Laura had lived just a quarter of her life and he could be out of prison in two years or so – it’s just not fair.’ The 45-year-old added: ‘I makes me . feel sick that Glover killed my girl while looking at porn. I keep . getting flashbacks of seeing her in hospital and the sheer despair of . losing her.’ Speaking after . the court case, Mr Pagett, who was left with a head injury and . fractured vertebrae, said: ‘Laura and I were looking forward to planning . our wedding together – instead, I ended up planning her funeral. ‘We were so excited to spend the rest of our lives together. ‘Laura had so much life to give, she had a heart of gold and aimed to become a teacher for disabled children.’ He said the couple were on their way . to Aberystwyth for a week by the sea. ‘I had to put my hazard lights on . and call my dad,’ he added. Laura and her fiancé Lewis Pagett were standing by their stationary vehicle on the A5, one section pictured, when the driver crashed into it. The vehicle flew over the safety barrier - killing the young teaching assistant . ‘One minute we were standing over the safety barrier on the A5 then the next thing I remember is being on the floor in a heap of rubble.’ Sentencing Glover, Judge Robin Onions said: ‘You were on these sites at the point of impact. For many miles you were not paying proper attention. This was utterly avoidable.’ The court heard Glover, of Birmingham, was travelling at between 50mph and 56mph when he hit the Vauxhall at 8.20am on July 21 last year. He told police that he could not remember what had happened before the crash. But tests on three mobile phones found in his lorry revealed that he was looking at the explicit dating sites. Prosecutor Hugh O’Brien Quinn said: ‘Mr Glover said that the only distraction in his car was the radio. ‘But two of the three phones found showed one site had been used while moving more than ten times, including while on the M54 and the A5. ‘It was a clear day and the Vauxhall would’ve been visible for a quarter of a mile but the defendant did not see it at all and drove straight into it.’ Defending Glover, Paul Rogers said he was ‘deeply ashamed’. Miss Thomas, of Great Haywood in Staffordshire, had become engaged at Christmas in 2012 and dreamed of having her wedding reception at the same venue where her school prom was staged. She was a teaching assistant at Marshlands Special School and volunteered with the Riding for the Disabled Association. | Ian Glover, 44, was browsing sex websites while driving his lorry .
Crashed in to stationary vehicle on A5 between Telford and Shrewsbury .
It then flew over the safety barrier, killing Laura Jane Thomas, 20 .
Lorry driver bowed his head in court as he was jailed for five years .
Her fiancé Lewis Pagett said Miss Thomas had a 'heart of gold' |
178,025 | 727597d9e3fceba22ef9b2f1e117253a94230974 | The best tressed: Advice from celebrity hairstylists could mean you will look like Kate Beckinsale . Most of the time, we don’t give it a second thought. It’s our hair that we notice, that bothers and perplexes us. Our scalp? Well, it’s just... there. But as hairdressers and trichologists – trained specialists who deal with hair problems – point out, the health of the scalp is fundamental to the look, feel and even the quantity of our hair. Celebrity hairdresser Julien Farel (whose salons are responsible for the tumbling tresses of A-listers Kate Moss, Rachel Weisz and Kate Beckinsale) feels strongly about this: ‘In the same way that grass can’t grow in sand, hair can’t grow in an unhealthy scalp,’ he says. So how can you keep yours in optimum condition? The answer is to tend to it as assiduously as we do the skin on our faces. The age-old problem . Scalp – and therefore hair – problems become more apparent as we get older. Farel explains: ‘As we age, our hair ages, too. With each passing year, our scalp and hair become more dehydrated while follicles become weaker. This leads to dryness, dullness, breakage and thinning.’ Dr Jeni Thomas, Principal Scientist for P&G (Procter & Gamble) Beauty, where for the past eight years she has focused her research on hair and scalp health, says: ‘At some point in their adult life, 50 per cent of adults will experience some form of scalp concern.’ ‘A healthy scalp should look similar to healthy skin; flake-free, blemish-free, not overly oily and without redness or irritation,’ says leading trichologist Philip Kingsley. ‘Most people know if their scalp is unhealthy as it will be itchy, irritated and perhaps red, scaly or overly greasy, or both. You may also find small, raised pimples on the scalp.’ Don’t be a flake . Kingsley continues: ‘Research shows that a flaky or itchy scalp can trigger or worsen hair shedding in both men and women. Simply not washing your scalp regularly enough can allow for the build-up of flakes and an imbalance of micro-organisms – both of which can worsen, or trigger, hair loss. More severe scalp conditions, left untreated, such as psoriasis and seborrhoeic dermatitis, can lead to hair breakage and secondary infection from scratching. Get your head examined . If you think you might have a problem, a knowledgeable hairdresser can give you a first opinion. Many salons that stock Phyto, a specialist hair care range, have specialised magnifying cameras (see phyto-haircare.co.uk for your nearest one). Any diseases can be identified and treatment suggested. Cleanse and moisturise . It’s the skincare mantra most of us apply to a regular face regime – but should also be used for our scalp. Firstly, take a look at what you’re washing your hair in: most shampoos contain foaming sulphate-based ingredients (commonly sodium lauryl sulphate, or SLS) which remove oil from the hair – but also from the scalp, which can end up dry and inflamed. Look for shampoos free from SLS, such as Pureology (£11; pureology-uk.com) or branch out and try one of the many new ‘Conditioning Cleansers’ in the shops. As the brand Grow Gorgeous puts it, ‘smart girls don’t strip’, a reference to the way its conditioner (£17.99 at Boots) will get your hair and scalp clean without stripping out all the oil from it. Julien Farel Anti-Ageing Haircare Hydrate Restore (£28, Selfridges.com) claims to hydrate and nourish rather like a face moisturiser. For a more budget-conscious option try Palmer’s Olive Oil Formula Cleansing Conditioner, which costs £5.99 for a big bottle at feelunique.com or Macadamia Oil Flawless (£8.75, lookfantastic.com). Exfoliate, exfoliate... Quality name: Luxury brand Kerastase offers a range of hair 'Rituals': treatments designed to nurture the hair and scalp, from £15 . In the same way that we exfoliate our faces to get rid of dead cells that clutter up the surface and make skin look dull, it’s a great idea to exfoliate your scalp. At home, try a product such as Alterna Caviar Exfoliating Scalp Facial, £32 (01925 578000 for stockists) which you use before your normal shampoo to decongest your scalp (it’s gentle, so good even for sensitive-skinned scalps) or Philip Kingsley Exfoliating Scalp Mask, £16, www.philipkingsley.co.uk). Try a hydrating ritual . Intensive hydrating treatments to cosset and soothe the scalp are increasingly popular. Luxury brand Kerastase offers a range of hair ‘Rituals’: treatments designed to nurture the hair and scalp, from £15 (kerastase.co.uk). At the Aveda Institute in Covent Garden, the Botanical Hair and Scalp Treatment (£60) combines massage with aromatherapy essential oils (avedainstitute.co.uk). In salons such as Michaeljohn, the popular celeb-hairdresser in London’s West End (michaeljohn.co.uk), you can try a Nioxin Scalp Dermabrasion service (from £15). It is designed to regenerate the scalp skin surface and reduce hair-loss. The treatment removes excess oil that builds up around the hair follicle, helping to restore the scalp to its optimum condition. Pick up a tonic . There is an array of scalp tonics on chemist shelves now. Choose one backed by clinical trials. Growth Factor Treatment Serum from Nanogen (£29.95, nanogen.co.uk) is popular with dermatologists and hair-transplant surgeons. Another top-notch option is the new Tricho 7 Daily Scalp Drops in Philip Kingsley’s Trichotherapy® kit (from £50 for the drops, £95 for the whole kit, philipkingsley.co.uk) which support hair health and growth via the scalp. Blitz the dandruff . Dandruff is the fault of a tiny organism called malassezia globosa, which we all have on our scalps and which feeds on sebum, the oil produced by our hair follicles – though we’re not all sensitive to it. If you are sensitive to malassezia, your scalp becomes irritated and sheds skin faster than it should – seen as dandruff. A shampoo containing zinc pyrithione (ZPT), such as Head & Shoulders, will do the trick nicely, which is why this is the top-selling shampoo around the world. Phyto produces the ‘decongesting’ Phytopolleine – a bracing mix of essential oils, £24.50, that will soon get clogged follicles back to normal. If that doesn’t work, see a specialist. GPs don’t have any training in hair issues, surprisingly, but a trichologist could help you (trichologists.org.uk) as can a dermatologist who specialises in the scalp. Dr David Fenton (drdavidfention.com) or Dr Jennifer Jones and Dr Vicky Joliffe (of londonhairspecialists.com) can help with problematic scalp issues. | A healthy scalp should look similar to healthy skin, hairdressers say .
Celebrity stylist Julien Farel believes: 'In the same way that grass can't grow in sand, hair can't grow on an unhealthy scalp' |
86,503 | f5881210c0e3720ba0342c3225f9ac1e2d16a199 | By . Bianca London . Girl power is alive and kicking for one family who have just welcomed yet another baby girl to their female-heavy family. Newborn Pixie-Lee is the fifth generation of a family, from Stockport, Cheshire, who can't stop having girls. Despite her efforts to keep the sex of her baby quiet, it came as no surprise when new mother Katie Moore gave birth to Pixie-Lee on February 28. Newborn Pixie-Lee is joined by mother Katie Donaldson, 24, (right), grandmother Cheryl Donaldson, 48, (back left), great grandmother Lynne Styles, 66, (back right) and great great grandmother Emily Burston, 89 . Mother's Day is now the family's biggest yearly celebration as Pixie-Lee celebrates with mother Katie, 24, grandma Cheryl Donaldson, 48, great-grandma Lynne Styles, 66, and great-great-grandma Emily Burston, 89. During Katie's pregnancy, her female relatives kept their fingers crossed for another lady and when the cry of 'It's a girl' came, they were all overjoyed. Lynne said: 'When Katie was pregnant they couldn't tell what gender the baby was because of how it was lying in the womb. 'Of course we just wanted the baby to be healthy - but we were all secretly hoping for another girl. During Katie's pregnancy, her female relatives kept their fingers crossed for another lady and when the cry of 'It's a girl' came, there really was no surprise . They women said that, of course they just wanted the baby to be healthy - but they were all secretly hoping for another girl - and their wish came true . 'We are a very close family, especially the women, and it's lovely to have another girl in the family. 'And to have five generations of living women is just unheard of. 'My mum is the head of the family, for 89 she is brilliant, and she is absolutely thrilled to have her first great-great-grandchild.' Lynne's husband John was the first to realise that the family were an unusual statistic. She added: 'It was my husband John who first pointed out that actually it was quite unusual to have five generations of women in one family. Despite her efforts to keep the sex of her baby quiet, it was no surprise when new mother Katie gave birth to Pixie-Lee on February 28 . 'We weren't sure what the odds were but after speaking to people we realised it was quite rare. 'So when Katie had a little girl we were absolutely delighted. We are all going to get together this weekend to have a big family get together to celebrate Mother's Day. 'All generations of the family will be there, and now that we have a new mum it will be a really special day.' The women are all going to get together this weekend to have a big family get together to celebrate Mother's Day . | Katie Moore, 24, gave birth to Pixie-Lee on February 28 .
Will celebrate Mother's Day with grandma Cheryl Donaldson, 48, great-grandma Lynne Styles, 66, and great-great-grandma Emily Burston, 89 .
Family were secretly hoping for another girl . |
105,376 | 13dec5aab091bc2f722ec8676c47e65781abf790 | A homeless man who sleeps at a Virginia homeless shelter is going to celebrate Thanksgiving with a couple that has volunteered to host him. Neal Shytles told WTKR earlier this month he'd hoped to not be alone on the national holiday. 'I am lonely like 365 days a year, but Christmas and Thanksgiving are like two of the worst days, and I really miss having some kind of family atmosphere around me,' he told the affiliate station. Scroll down for video . Not alone: Neal Shytles is set to celebrate Thanksgiving with Cory and Ashley McLemore this week . Helping hand: Ashley McLemore said she was touched by Shytles, because she and her husband are a military couple and are away from their family . 'It would mean the world to me if somebody took me in. Just for that one day, you know, for a couple hours, you know,' he also said. Shytles received numerous offers from willing hosts when his story was broadcast by WTKR - the first of which was made by Cory and Ashley McLemore, the television station reported. Shytles told WTKR last week of the offers 'It was like bam, bam, bam, one good thing after the other, and I was just so happy you know.' He also said of Ashley McLemore's offer 'I was crying when she called me, and I had to excuse myself because I was emotional.' More room at the table: Neal Shytle is invited to spend both lunch and Thanksgiving dinner with the McLemores . Joy: Shytles has said of the offers he's received 'It was like bam, bam, bam, one good thing after the other, and I was just so happy you know' 'They want to feed me lunch and then Thanksgiving dinner later, so I'm getting a double blessing, I guess you would say,' he also said in the interview. Ashley McLemore, meanwhile, told the television station 'He started crying and then I started crying a little bit and then we were both crying.' She also told WKTR 'Because we've been [a military couple] and I identify with having to move away from your family and not having family around for the holidays so, it kind of struck a chord with me.' 'I just look forward to having him in our house and being a part of our family for the day,' she also revealed. Shyltes expressed his gratitude via the television station, saying 'I love both you and your husband even though I haven't met you. Thank you so much. It means a lot to me.' | Homeless man Neal Shytles had told a local television station he'd hoped not to be alone on Thanksgiving .
Shytles received numerous offers from willing hosts when his story was made public - the first of which was made by Cory and Ashley McLemore . |
112,938 | 1db9604605934efad363788893b2c5db21ea0951 | After what will have seemed like an eternity to Liverpool fans, Brendan Rodgers leads his men into the Champions League for the first time in five seasons on Tuesday. No more painful evenings of sitting at home watching the likes of Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City mixing it with the best in Europe, while Liverpool toiled against the continent's second tier, or worse still had no European football at all at Anfield. But back in 2009/10, instead of leading Liverpool to their third Champions League final in six seasons, Rafa Benitez - the man in charge at the time - oversaw a disastrous third-place finish in their group with Fiorentina, Lyon and Hungarians Debrecen. And to illustrate just how much has changed at the club since the 2009/10 season, we've picked out five key points from autumn 2009 at Anfield. In just five years Raheem Sterling has gone from obscurity to worldwide fame with Liverpool and England . Star forward Raheem Sterling was just a 14-year-old trainee with QPR . Sterling might be a household name to many now with his trademark direct running and rapidly-improving link-up play, but back then the QPR prospect was so young he would have been denied entry to a 15-certificate film at his local cinema. He went on to join the Reds in an initial deal of £400,000 in early 2010 after being wowed by former Liverpool hero Fernando Torres on a visit to Melwood to check out the set-up. Back in 2009 Brendan Rodgers only surived a few months at struggling Championship Reading . Brendan Rodgers was about to get shown the door at Championship Reading . The Northern Irishman was considered a talented up-and-coming manager after a spell working with Jose Mourinho at Chelsea and helping Watford to avoid relegation in his first managerial job. But things didn't go quite so well at Reading, when the then 36-year-old rookie boss only made it to December before a poor run of results saw him leave by mutual consent. After a short spell out, the resilient Rodgers took Swansea up in his first season and comfortably kept them there before Liverpool came calling. American duo George Gillette (left) and Tom Hicks oversaw a tumultuous running of the club at that time . George Gillette and Tom Hicks were still in control of the club . The tumultuous reign of the Americans was still in full effect in the autumn of 2009 (they weren't ousted until late 2010) as Benitez found himself constantly clashing with Gillette and Hicks over the running of team affairs. Just how destabilising their control of the club had been didn't become clear to many until they'd been shown the door in dramatic fashion. Alberto Aquilani was bought in to replace Xabi Alonso in the Liverpool midfield for the 2009/10 season . Alberto Aquilani is the man entrusted to replace the hugely popular Xabi Alonso . Selling Alonso to Real Madrid in the summer of 2009 is a mistake Benitez must still rue to this day. But buying Alberto Aquilani for £20million, who was injured for the first few weeks of his Liverpool career, was arguably a bigger mistake. Aquilani only managed a handful of games for the Reds, before a number of loans in his native Italy finally brought about a permanent sale to Fiorentina at a huge loss. Even more damaging was the Alonso-shaped hope in the Liverpool midfield for some time after. Steven Gerrard, seen here in Liverpool's disastrous campaign, is one of only three surviving senior players . Emiliano Ensua (left) and Diego Cavalieri lined up for Liverpool in their last Champions League match . Steven Gerrard, Glen Johnson, Martin Skrtel and Lucas Leiva are the only remaining senior players from that period . The best way to illustrate the churn of players through the door at Anfield since that time is that the only current senior players from the 2009/10 are Steven Gerrard, Glen Johnson, Martin Skrtel and Lucas Leiva. The starting line-up in Liverpool's final match of that campaign (which they lost 2-1 to Fiorentina) included such stellar talents as Diego Cavalieri in goal, Stephen Darby and Emiliano Ensua in defence, while Andrea Dossena put his attacking skills to great effect on the left wing. Champions League winner in 2005 with Liverpool, Luis Garcia, reveals his happiness about their return . Liverpool fans will be hoping their return to the Champions League has a very different outcome to the last time they graced Europe's elite competition. | Liverpool return to the Champions League for the first time since the 2009/10 season on Tuesday .
They go up against Ludogorets from Bulgaria in their first game .
Real Madrid and Basle are the other teams in Liverpool's group .
See how Raheem Sterling and Brendan Rodgers' careers have progressed since the 2009/10 season .
Steven Gerrard, Glen Johnson, Martin Skrtel and Lucas Leiva are the only surviving senior players from that fateful season .
George Gillette and Tom Hicks were still in control of the club .
Alberto Aquilani was the player bought to replace Xabi Alonso and drive Liverpool to their third Champions League final in six seasons . |
13,535 | 26694829d84f175d7640795188ce321ff448066f | Eliaquim Mangala has been ruled out of Manchester City’s Premier League clash with Tottenham through injury – but Yaya Toure is in contention to play at the Etihad. Manager Manuel Pellegrini hopes that Mangala, a £32million summer signing from FC Porto, will be fit for Tuesday’s crucial Champions League clash away to CSKA Moscow despite suffering from a thigh problem. He said: ‘There is just a small problem with Mangala. He has a muscle injury, but I think he will be fit without any problems for Tuesday.’ Eliaquim Mangala (left) heads out to training at the Etihad Stadium with team-mate Bacary Sagna . Yaya Toure is in contention for Saturday after returning from international duty with Ivory Coast . Toure flew back immediately after Ivory Coast’s game against DR Congo in midweek in a bid to be ready to face Spurs, and Pellegrini confirmed that the midfielder is in his squad. ‘All the other players are okay,’ added Pellegrini. ‘Of course it’s not easy to see what is the best starting XI for Saturday when you have so many players arriving on different days of the week. Tomorrow we will decide. ‘Yaya arrived yesterday with Aleksandar Kolarov and Matija Nastasic, other players arrived on Wednesday and some more on Tuesday, so we’re trying to see which is the best team for tomorrow – but all of them are on the squad list.’ The issue of Toure and the Premier League’s other African players returning from West Africa has raised concerns over the Ebola outbreak, and even put the January’s African Cup of Nations in jeopardy. Pellegrini said: ‘I suppose that the people who have to decide about that have enough experience to know if they can play or not play. For me it is very difficult to give my opinion but I trust in the persons who have to decide if they can do it or not.’ Meanwhile Kolarov and Nastasic were caught up in the politically-fuelled brawl that halted Serbia’s Euro 2016 qualifier against Albania in Belgrade. City head for Eastern Europe to play Moscow next week but the match will be played behind closed doors after UEFA punished the Russian club over the behaviour of their fans. James Milner, Fernandinho, Sergio Aguero and Aleksandar Kolarov were all in action on Friday . Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany rests his hand on team-mate Sagna during training . ‘I think that affects football,’ said Pellegrini. ‘I don’t think it is the best way to play, not only for our team but for Russian team. For fans, I think football is with fans. It is the most important thing because they give an atmosphere at the stadium which is different to an empty stadium. It will be a different experience but that cannot affect our performance.’ The City boss admitted that the Premier League champions are entering a crucial phase of their season. They must beat Moscow home and away to have a realistic chance of qualifying for the Champions League knockout stage, and defend the Capital One Cup against Newcastle, but Pellegrini is trying not to look further ahead than Spurs as he looks to keep pace with leaders Chelsea. ‘We are just thinking about the next game which is Tottenham,’ he said. ‘We know that from now until the next international break we have to play seven games in three different competitions. ‘We have four games in the Premier League. It is very important for us to try not to drop points and to try and recover points from Chelsea. Toure in action for Ivory Coast against Youssouf Mulumbu of the Democratic Republic of Congo on Tuesday . Kolarov (right) was in action for Serbia in their troubled tie at home to Albania on Tuesday . ‘We also have one game against Newcastle which is final because if we don’t win we go out of the Capital One Cup. We have two games against CSKA Moscow in the Champions League that we need win to win both of them. 'The best way to think is that the next game is a final, which is Tottenham, we will try to win it and after we will see which is the best team to try and win the next final.’ City hammered Spurs 11-1 on aggregate in the league last season but Pellegrini is expecting a much tougher test on Saturday. ‘I am sure it is a different Tottenham,’ he said. ‘Last year one of the best games that we played was against Tottenham away. Here also we played very well but we are not expecting that we can score six or five goals every time we play Tottenham. ‘They are a very strong team. Mauricio Pochettino is a very good manager. Really we play in our best moment last season. We hope tomorrow we can do a very good game also.’ | Defender Mangala ruled out of Tottenham game for Manchester City .
He has a muscle injury but could be fit for midweek Champions League .
Spurs set to travel to Etihad for lunchtime kickoff on Saturday .
Yaya Toure in contention after return from international duty . |
148,877 | 4c83e20ff75e81e8a0a745df243cdf98af9f9279 | This story is part of an ongoing series of profiles by CNN about economic survival in this time of financial crisis. Leah Bird and her husband Ed Wright stand in front of their new home: a 1974 Airstream trailer. (CNN) -- They bid farewell to their beloved trips to the opera and museum, the beach and Buddhist temples. They ate one last time at their favorite restaurants serving Indian curried chicken and warm bowls of Vietnamese pho. Leah Bird and her husband, Ed Wright, have traded their comfortable two-bedroom apartment and jobs in Beverly Hills, California, for life in a trailer on a five-acre Oregon farm. No longer do the couple hear roaring fire trucks in the street or chatter from patrons dining at outdoor cafes. On this farm, the dominant silence is occasionally interrupted by the sounds of frogs and crickets. "It's not necessarily a lifestyle that has ever seemed attractive to me," says 28-year-old Bird, between tending to the farm animals: two sheep, two Nubian goats, miniature horses and geese. "I always saw myself as more of a metropolitan person, but you know, without money, this was our best option." The couple's drastic lifestyle change -- one they chose -- came last October when Wright, 48, lost his job managing life insurance portfolios for millionaires at a private firm in Beverly Hills. His niche company, which relied heavily on capital flow, had felt the pain of the credit crunch. Once making over $100,000 a year, Wright soon joined the growing number of Americans facing unemployment in the economic downturn. iReport.com: Tell us how you're surviving . With meager savings, Bird and Wright knew they couldn't maintain their costly Los Angeles lifestyle in an area where, they say, image is everything. Even if they had stayed in Beverly Hills, they would have needed to move into a smaller apartment and rely on Bird's modest salary as a financial manager. Exhausted from the rat race, Wright decided they needed another option. "I've been in Los Angeles for a long time and I've had to start over before," Wright says. "You spend two or three years getting back on your feet and then what? It's a struggle if you aren't making a lot of money." Then Wright's parents offered to let the newlywed couple live on their family farm in rural Douglas County in southern Oregon until the couple bounced back. Wright agreed immediately. He says he wanted to move there to help his elderly parents manage the sprawling property. His wife, however, was more reluctant because she still had her job. But Bird says she soon agreed to move to the farm because it was the fastest way to cut expenses. "I did it out of immediate necessity," says Bird, who grew up in more of a suburban setting near Tucson, Arizona. "I don't think I was ready to leave L.A." While Wright wanted to make the move north, he wasn't ready to move in with his parents. At Christmas, the couple purchased a 1974 Airstream trailer, shaped like an oblong silver bullet, from Craigslist for a few thousand dollars. The trailer living quarters are cramped, with about 300 square feet, a major downgrade from the couple's 1,400-square-foot apartment in California. iReport.com: From Beverly Hills to Hillbillies . The couple moved to Oregon in mid-January, after a two-day drive from Los Angeles, hopeful the farm would give them the needed break from city life and a chance to focus on finding new careers. In Los Angeles, they lived in a neighborhood with about 20,000 people. Now, the closest town has fewer than 20,000 people. "We're not going to lie to you and say everything is hunky dory," Wright says. "It's hard being out here." "I feel like a fish out of water," Bird added. "I'm so out of my element." Their mornings now begin at the crack of dawn. They clean the living space for the animals, pick up manure and fix the landscaping. Afternoons are spent job hunting, a challenging feat in a region where lumber and nursing are the two dominant fields. For now, they are spending their savings until they find employment. Their trailer's bedroom has just enough room to stuff in a queen-size bed. A narrow window by the bed looks out on the farm, where they can see deer roaming the land in the mornings. There is no dining room, a difficult adjustment for the couple, who once enjoyed entertaining guests over dinner and wine. The living room furniture consists of colorful pillows piled against the wall on the floor facing the television and a desk for their laptops. Their new kitchen has just enough space for one person to stand and work. There is one toilet , which is currently being remodeled, and no shower. The couple bathe at Wright's parents' house; they admit that they only shower a few times a week now. Most of their belongings from Los Angeles, expensive furniture and art accumulated over the years, remain in storage. While the couple miss these things, they say their new lifestyle will help them survive the troubled economy. They also hope it will teach them to live simpler lives. In many ways, Bird and Wright are enjoying the serenity of their slower-paced lifestyle. They are spending more time together, and Bird says she is getting closer to Wright's parents. After the initial culture shock in the first month, Bird says she is slowly adapting to farm life. She learned how to build a fire pit, and she plans on growing a fruit and vegetable garden in the spring. She wants to buy more productive animals like cows. With the garden and some cows, she says, the couple won't have to purchase vegetables or milk from the grocery store. Her husband is remodeling their trailer by adding amenities to the kitchen and bathroom. Wright, who has always been interested in philosophy and religion, says he sees his unemployment as a time for "soul searching." The couple are still mulling their career options. Wright, who is also an amateur musician, is looking at new job opportunities for the future. He has dabbled with the idea of starting his own bar since he knows so many musicians in the industry, he says. He and his wife are thinking about joining the Peace Corps together, or maybe building a log house on the farm. The options are limitless, they say. A few weeks ago, surrounded by giant pine trees in the cold winter air, the couple walked outside and looked up. For the first time in a long time, they could see the stars shining brightly in the dark sky. CNN's Shirley Zilberstein contributed to this report. | Leah Bird and Ed Wright have have traded their Beverly Hills life for a trailer on a farm .
Wright, who once made $100,000 a year, was laid off from an insurance firm .
They feed animals, clean manure and fix the landscape .
"I feel like a fish out of water. I'm so out of my element," Bird says . |
165,690 | 62488611e6ae05a7ecae6e26f513f3da5e4e2e17 | (CNN) -- Since I first became aware of the maddening case of 36-year-old Sergio Garcia, who seeks admission to the California Bar, I've tried to convince myself this accomplished young man -- a law school graduate who passed the bar exam -- should be able to practice law despite the inconvenient fact that he is an undocumented immigrant. Yet, I can't. My heart goes out to Garcia. But my head won't go along. This week, the California Supreme Court held a hearing to decide whether Garcia is eligible for a law license in California in a case that is certain to impact the fate of other undocumented immigrants in pursuit of legal careers. Garcia is opposed by the Obama administration's Justice Department, which cites a 1996 law that prohibits states from providing undocumented immigrants with public benefits, including professional licenses. He is supported by California Attorney General Kamala Harris, who argues the issuance of law licenses isn't a federal matter but up to states to decide. A decision from the court is expected in the next 90 days. Garcia came to the United States from Mexico with his family when he was a toddler. He returned to Mexico with his mother when he was 9 and came back to the U.S. when he was 17. He applied for citizenship. That was back in 1994, and he is still waiting to hear from Uncle Sam. He told AP that he isn't worried about being deported because his case is well-known and he had notified immigration officials that he is in the U.S. awaiting a decision on his citizenship. While he waits, he has been working hard toward his goal of becoming a lawyer. He paid for his studies at Cal Northern School of Law in Chico, California, by working at a grocery store. Yet, in the immigration debate, we must separate the individual from the idea. The individual -- Garcia -- looks like a keeper. The idea -- that one who has lived most of his life outside the law can practice law -- is problematic. This young man wants to put his hand on a Bible and pledge the following: "I solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of California, and that I will faithfully discharge the duties of an attorney and counselor at law to the best of my knowledge and ability." That oath comes from the California Bar Association, which states: "It is the duty of an attorney to ... support the laws of the United States and of this state ... maintain the respect due to the courts of justice and judicial officers ... (and) never to seek to mislead the judge or any judicial officer by an artifice or false statement of fact or law." How is Garcia supposed to uphold "the laws of the United States" when he is, by his mere presence in this country, in violation of federal law? How does he pledge to show respect for "the courts of justice" when, for most of his life, he has lived here in defiance of the rule of law? And how can he claim that he won't "mislead" a judge or judicial officer when living in the United States illegally requires deception on a daily basis? If Garcia had more respect for the profession that he is seeking to join, he might have second thoughts about whether he is eligible to join it. Yet, he seems to feel entitled to a law license and everything that comes with it. I've had contact with Garcia in the past, and I'm worried that he's lived in the United States for so long that he's picked up some bad habits from his fellow Americans. Several months ago, Garcia posted on Facebook: "I have a career lined up with the potential of offering employment to U.S. Citizens, no criminal record anywhere and have been in limbo for the last 19 years. Where the hell is my American Dream? Lol" I responded: "Not to pick a fight, Sergio. But your question is very much part of the problem. 'Where's mine? Where's my American Dream? Gimme, gimme.' You're an American after all. I'll tell the kid at Starbucks, the one with the sense of entitlement, to scoot over and make room." I continued: "If America gives you the chance to live the Dream, don't you think it's fair for her to ask for something in return? She decided that she wanted your RESPECT, and that this could be demonstrated by you respecting her laws -- the same laws you say you want to spend your life serving and defending in a courtroom. Don't you see the irony there?" Garcia responded: "Let me get done with lunch so I can address your entitlement issues." He never got back to me. In his public comments, I haven't seen evidence that Garcia has considered for one minute the possibility that this case is about issues larger than himself, his plans, his dreams. I don't think he has. And if the court decides in his favor, he never will. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Ruben Navarrette. | Ruben Navarrette: Should an illegal immigrant be able to practice law?
Navarrette: In the case of Sergio Garcia, my heart says yes but my head won't go along .
He asks how does Garcia show respect for law when he has lived in defiance of rule of law?
Navarrette: In the immigration debate, we must separate the individual from the idea . |
157,848 | 58153e1fb1ce6905ed058defe19a078b2652fbc6 | It was 3 a.m. in Thailand. Presumably barely anyone was watching. But the country's military chief chose that hour to appear on army-run Channel 5 television Tuesday to declare martial law across the country. "This is not a coup," said Gen. Prayuth Chan-Ocha, hours before the nation's people woke to the new public order; with soldiers stationed at intersections and tanks on the streets. The army says it has taken control to ensure law and order in a country split by deep political divisions, two weeks after the country's Constitutional Court removed caretaker Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra from government. "The defendant has abused her position as prime minister," said the judge in the ruling. "Her prime ministership has ... ended." Nine cabinet ministers were also removed from office, while Deputy PM and Commerce Minister Niwatthamrong Boonsongpaisan was appointed caretaker prime minister. How has the caretaker prime minister reacted? Niwatthamrong has not been removed from his post, although one of his aides, who declined to be named, told CNN the government had not been consulted before the military made its move. "We have to watch and see if what declared by the Army Chief is well honored," he said, calling the events of Tuesday morning "a half coup d'etat." Niwatthamrong later issued a statement on the imposition of martial law: . "With reference to the Royal Thai Army's declaration of the martial law to preserve order and bring back peacefulness to the country, the government wishes the same for national peace, and hopes that the martial law is imposed by way of peaceful means and equality with no violence and discrimination and under the legal state and the rule of law which is in accordance with the government's ongoing policy," he said. "This action of the Royal Thai Army's must be under the principles of constitution and democracy with the King as head of state." A long history of coups . The people of Thailand are all too familiar with coup d'etats. There have been at least 18 actual and attempted military takeovers since Thailand became a constitutional monarchy in 1932. The last one was in 2006 when the military sent tanks onto the streets before ousting then Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, the brother of Yingluck, who is now living in exile to avoid a corruption conviction he claims is politically motivated. Thaksin's supporters, known as red shirts, have also rallied around Yingluck, slamming her ousting as a "judicial coup." Thousands of protesters swarmed the streets following the ruling, seeking the removal of the caretaker government. Their political rivals allege Yingluck is acting as a puppet leader for her brother and campaigned for her removal. The anti-government movement includes "yellow shirts," predominantly urban, middle class members of the royalist establishment. Members of the "red shirts" are typically rural working class. What does martial law look like in Thailand? Within hours of declaring martial law, Gen. Prayuth announced he would be leading a new security task force, the Peace Keeping Command Center (PKCC). The task force's advisory committee also includes chiefs of the navy, air force and national police, he said. Soldiers were dispatched to stand guard at television stations. Broadcasters, including 10 satellite TV stations, were ordered to shut down "to ensure that information will be distributed rightly and to prevent any distortions which could lead to misunderstandings and it could lead to wide spread conflicts." Images posted on social media showed soldiers patrolling the streets of Bangkok. Paul Quaglia, director at PQA Associates told CNN they were positioned at intersections but so far there was no sign of unrest. "Traffic is a real mess here at the moment. But there's no violence. I think what the military is trying to do with this 'martial law light,' if I can say that, is to convince protesters to go home. They're trying to dial down the tensions here as well as preempt several large rallies and strikes that were scheduled for later this week," he said. Andrew Marshall, a journalist and author who focuses on Thailand, told CNN the military's decision to announce martial law at night indicated it was trying to do so "with minimal possible fuss." What happens next? Marshall said it would become clearer in the next couple of days what the army's intentions are; whether it's going to call an election or appoint a new government. "If they appoint a government it's a coup by another name and you might see the start of violence from the red shirts," he said. "Martial law means the police are sidelined and they are no longer responsible for security. And the police in Thailand are seen as heavily supportive of Thaksin and his allies, which is the red side of the battle. So when you've got a police force that's suddenly been sidelined that's another combustible element in this mix. "So Thailand is kind of on a knife-edge," he said. Did the military have no choice? Gen. Prayuth's move to impose martial law didn't come as a surprise, wrote Saritdet Marukatat, digital editor for the Bangkok Post. The army chief warned last week the military could be forced to act to end violent protests. "The country was moving towards a possible bloody clash between the two camps, leaving no choice for the army commander but to try to prevent it. As a general, he had only two choices: a military coup or martial law," Marukatat wrote. "He picked the softer option and did as he had promised in last week's statement, that the army does not want a coup because it would meaning tearing down the 2007 constitution." However, Sunai Phasuk from Human Rights Watch Thailand said the situation in the country had not yet justified the army's intervention. "There is no concrete proof that the situation in Thailand is out of control to the extent that an enforcement of the martial law is essential. With the enforcement of martial law, the army is one step closer to taking over power completely from civilian administration." "At the moment, military authorities have superior power over civil authority in keeping public order. There is no check and balance; there are no safeguards against rights violations; there are no remedies for any damage cause by the army. The fate of the nation is essentially in Gen. Prayuth's hands," he said. Could the military broker peace in Thailand? Thitinan Pongsudhirak, a political science professor, said the declaration of martial law in Thailand had broken the deadlock between warring parties, and the army was now in a position to mediate a possible resolution. "We've been paralyzed in Thailand because on one side we have protesters bent on replacing the government, and on the other side we have a caretaker government refusing to resign." "If the army can play a mediating role in search of a compromise that satisfies all sides then we can find a way out of this crisis. But if it does not, if the army plays a partisan role, then we can see a lot more crises in Thailand," he warned. In a statement, the U.S. State Department encouraged all parties to "respect democratic principles" and also stressed the need for elections "to determine the will of the Thai people." | Thai military says it's imposition of martial law is not a coup d'etat .
Declaration made on army at 3 a.m. local time to cause "minimum fuss"
Army chief says the move was necessary to restore law and order .
Commentators watching and waiting for military's next move . |
60,808 | acccdc7ae769931a9cd8eee25b93354286e12711 | (CNN) -- When I first heard of Justin.tv, I was insanely jealous. The idea was so brain-dead simple that a lot of people -- including me -- wondered how we hadn't come up with it first. A self-admitted tech geek, Chris Pirillo is president of Lockergnome.com, a blogging network. Nowadays, Justin.tv is a bustling hub of streaming video channels broadcast and viewed by dozens of thousands. But at its humble beginning only a few short years ago, it was really just one guy (Justin Kan) walking around San Francisco with a webcam strapped to his head. It ran for 24 hours, seven days a week (barring technical difficulties), whether he was being interviewed by NPR or chowing down on a salad. It was like the "show about nothing" concept pitched by George Costanza and Jerry Seinfeld and made real -- and it took off instantly. I guess it's like television or the rest of the Web: If someone is interested enough to do it, someone else will be interested enough to view it. One might wonder about the sort of people so easily drawn into following such an experiment, but there were tons of us. Yes, I say "us" because I have to count myself among its first flock of fans. An unedited, human-eyed peek into the life of another person? Color me fascinated! It reminds me of how we'd sit glued to MTV in the '80s because, even if we weren't interested in what was on at that very moment, we were constantly in suspense of what might come next. Even if you weren't all that interested in going round n' round with Ratt, you might hang out for a while to watch Thomas Dolby get blinded with science. Anything could happen. But suspense is only part of the equation when trying to make sense of the phenomenon that is reality entertainment. I think part of the appeal is that it inspires us with the feeling that we, too, can create and participate. It's an unscripted exercise ripe with the potential for adventure. You don't have to be an award-winning playwright for a crack at having your voice heard by a sizeable audience. A tiny green fellow I once knew would be proud that it's become more popular to "do" than to "not do" or -- worse -- "try." Ah, Kermit. I wonder what he's up to these days? Thus inspired, like many of you out there, I'm one of those people who took the initiative and decided to give this "lifecasting" thing a go. Much of my day is spent in front of a Web cam, interacting with my viewers in an IRC chat room. We throw ideas around (usually tech-related, but conversation can meander off into matters of pet care and the intricacies of quantum knitting. You just never know) and I try to help people solve the computer problems that make them go "hmmm." Over the years, I've found that troubleshooting is something I'm good at doing. Being available on the Web for hours every day lets me help more people than I would have been able to even just a few short years ago. Best of all? I like to do it! In another age, I could have been a black-lunged coal miner or a scurvy-withered prison ship navigator. Yeah, I think I'll count my 21st-century blessings. My joy at having found a calling in the modern world must carry across to computer monitors around the globe, because I'm constantly being asked by my viewers how they, too, can get their foot in the lifecasting door. The will's way's been paved; technology has adapted along with lifecasting's popularity and it's actually easier than ever to get started. All you need is a webcam, a microphone, and an Internet connection. Many live streaming services are free for personal use, though don't rule out pre-recording videos when you're starting out to get the hang of things before making the plunge into 100% live lifecasting. I'm not trying to discourage anyone from jumping right in with both feet, but some people find comfort in cultivating their front-of-the-camera craft before going public, and that's fine. Build your self-confidence and mind your mannerisms, but always expect the unexpected. You will get caught off guard now and again, regardless of how much preparation you think you've done -- and that's fine, too. It'll thicken your skin. Interact with your viewers. This will thicken your skin even more, but you might be surprised at how supportive people can be if they like what you're doing. Think about broadcasting social events, but always get permission. Don't shove a camera in someone's face if they're not expecting it. If you're not intimidated by any of this, then go ahead and give lifecasting a try. Have a reason to do it, even if it's personal. Don't be afraid to be yourself. Most important: Have fun, and don't take yourself too seriously. | Tech enthusiast Chris Pirillo shares tips for "lifecasting" your daily doings on the Web .
All you need is a webcam, a microphone, and an Internet connection .
Justin.tv began with a guy strapping a webcam to his head and streaming it live .
Consider pre-recording videos when you're starting out to get the hang of things . |
140,993 | 424f67e213430127aefe6940a26a934d4f723bc4 | The Canadian man who killed and . dismembered a Chinese student in 2012 was raised by a domineering mother who would get drunk on vodka and was obsessed with germs, the man's father testified on Friday, while . describing himself as an alcoholic schizophrenic. Luka Magnotta, 32, has admitted killing and dismembering . engineering student Jun Lin, 33, and to videotaping the acts and . mailing parts of the body to several addresses. He is pleading . not guilty due to mental illness. The 50-year-old father is a tall, heavyset man from Ontario who cannot be named because of a court-ordered publication ban. Triggers: Luka Magnotta, 32, the Canadian man who killed and dismembered a Chinese student in 2012 had a troubled childhood, his father testified on Friday . He told the jury in a Montreal courtroom that Magnotta and . Magnotta's younger brother and sister were taught at home by his . ex-wife, Anna Yourkin. He said the children had no friends and . never played with children their own age. 'She was very clingy,' he said of his ex-wife. 'She wanted . to have total control over them.' Murdered: Jun Lin was a Chinese exchange student in Montreal, who once dated Magnotta. A video shows him being horribly mutilated and partially eaten . Trail: Pieces of Jun Lin were discovered more than 2,800 miles apart after Magnotta dropped his lover's dismembered limbs in the post . Yourkin was a heavy drinker who had such a phobia of germs . that she would not let the children use public washrooms, . instead making them wait until they got home, the father said. 'They were very mixed-up kids and they still are,' he told . the court. The prosecutor in the case says Magnotta had planned to kill a person for at least six months before the crime was committed,and that he had emailed a British journalist in 2011 saying he planned to kill and videotape the act. The court has seen a video of the killing and dismemberment which added a suggestion of cannibalism to what is considered one of Canada's grisliest murder trials. Gory: Police discovered blood stains inside Magnotta's Montreal apartment fridge . Evidence: Other bloodied items were discovered at his home including this T-shirt . Graphic: This heavily blood-stained mattress was discovered at the crime scene . After the killing, Magnotta sent body parts from Montreal to . two elementary schools in Vancouver and to two political parties . in Ottawa, wrapping the hands and feet in pink tissue paper and . including poems and notes. Magnotta was the subject of an international . manhunt. He was arrested in a Berlin Internet cafe, where he . was reading about himself. Magnotta's father said he and Yourkin got married at age 17 and 16, respectively, when Yourkin got pregnant with Magnotta. They named the baby Eric Clinton Kirk Newman after actors Clint Eastwood and Kirk Douglas. Weapon: Another photo of a knife was entered into evidence during the high profile Canadian murder trial . Wrapped: Jurors were shown pieces of pink tissue paper which Magnotta used to wrap up Lin's body parts . Chaos: Police found a number of knives and protective Nitrile gloves while searching the crime scene . Magnotta, who later changed his name, grew up moving from . town to town in Ontario and spent much of his childhood with an . abusive maternal grandmother, the father said. He said Magnotta started school in Grade 6 - when children . are typically aged 11 or 12 - after the family was forced to . move because they could no longer pay their mortgage. The father, who said he lost two jobs because of his own . drinking problems, added he was opposed to Magnotta being . educated at home, but worked long hours and deferred to his . wife. He said he later managed to quit drinking and realized he . had a psychiatric problem. 'I heard voices, I felt like . (committing) suicide,' he said. 'I felt angry.' | Luka Magnotta admits killing and dismembering lover Jun Lin in Montreal .
The 32-year-old is pleading not guilty to murder due to mental illness .
On Friday Magnotta's father, 50, told jurors about his troubled childhood .
He described himself as an alcoholic schizophrenic and his ex-wife, Magnotta's mother, as a domineering woman who would get drunk . |
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