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248,246 | cd37bacb29b11492d67257a9336a35cdecfef34d | Celebrity memoirs are no longer popular as the genre has already 'peaked', according to one of Britain's leading publishers. Charlie Redmayne, UK chief executive of HarperCollins, has slashed the number of books written by the rich and famous that his company buys up. He claims their profits are now 'hit and miss' - and says even those expected to do well, written by some of the country's biggest names, are failing to match expectations. Undersold: Memoirs written by Stephen Fry and John Cleese both sold 60,000 copies - far less than what was expected from two of Britain's most popular comedic actors . Mr Redmayne, older half-brother of actor Eddie Redmayne, told the Evening Standard: 'We're moving away from big celebrity hit-and-miss stuff. HITS . Lynda Bellingham: There's Something I've Been Dying To Tell You . Sales: 265,000 . Roy Keane: The Second Half . Sales: 149,000 . Guy Martin: My Autobiography . Sales: 168,000 . FLOPS . John Cleese: So, Anyway . Sales: 60,000 . Stephen Fry: More Fool Me . Sales 60,000 . Graham Norton: The Life And Loves Of A He-Devil . Sales: 43,000 . Paul Merton: Only When I Laugh: My Autobiography . Sales: 17,000 . Kelly Brook: Close Up . Sales: 8,000 . Pippa Middleton: Celebrate . Sales: 2,000 . Source: The Bookseller data by Nielsen Bookscan . 'A lot of books were bought last year for large amounts of money which just didn't do the numbers at all. He declined to identify which stars he had in mind. Certain celebrities have enjoyed huge success - with Alex Ferguson's tell-all book notching up nearly 700,000 sales so far this year. Other hits have been Roy Keane's The Second Half, selling 149,000 copies, and Lynda Bellingham: There's Something I've Been Dying To Tell You, selling 265,000 copies. But for every successful book there are many more flops and Mr Redmayne says he feels it's now time to pull back. The publishing chief - who took charge of Rupert Murdoch's HarperCollins last year - was speaking as annual accounts revealed the company's revenues dropped nearly six per cent to £180 million in the year to June. He claimed part of the reason for the fall in revenue was his 'strategic decision' to avoid 'unprofitable' non-fiction publishing - and he pointed out that operating profits actually jumped 80 per cent to £5 million. He said: 'I felt the company had embraced some quite risky celebrity non-fiction. A lot of these books were hugely expensive and they were not necessarily going to back-list well. Speaking to The Times, he added: 'We want a broad swathe of publishing, but historically, HarperCollins, and indeed a lot of other publishers, had been making some very, very big bets on big celebrity autobiographies. 'That celebrity non-fiction market, in my opinion, has peaked. It's still there, there's still a market for it, but it is coming down. 'I think the prices - the advance that we pay the authors - needs to reflect that.' Last year Pippa Middleton was dropped by Penguin after her party planning book Celebrate sold only 2,000 copies in the first week. Huge hit: Roy Keane's tell-all book The Second Half was one the year's success stories, selling 149,000 copies since its October release . Flops: Both Hillary Clinton's and Kelly Brook's autobiographies flopped in sales - with the model's Close Up selling just 8,000 copies . The Duchess of Cambridge's sister was said to have received a staggering £400,000 fee for the book in advance. The Bookseller Magazine recently reported that sales of biographies and autobiographies had slumped four per cent in 2014. Patrick Neale, the owner of Jaffe and Neale's bookshop in Oxfordshire, told the magazine: 'I have always asked when the bubble is going to burst on celebrity titles and to date I have been proved wrong, but actually this might be the year it has finally happened. 'Sales of Stephen Fry and Michael Palin books have been low, which is surprising.' A novel by the online video blogger Zoe Sugg, known as Zoella, has been the biggest success of the Christmas period - despite critics commenting on her use of a ghost writer. Her book Girl Online sold more than 78,000 copies in its first week - more than JK Rowling, Dan Brown or EL James achieved with their first books. Struggled: Paul Merton's Only When I Laugh: My Autobiography sold 17,000 copies. Pippa Middleton's party planning book Celebrate sold just 2,000 copies and she was quickly dropped by publisher Penguin . Success story: Zoe Sugg, known as Zoella, saw her novel Girl Online sell more than 78,000 copies in its first week - despite controversy over her use of a ghost writer . | Chief executive of HarperCollins says books written by stars have 'peaked'
Claims profits are now 'hit and miss' and publishers reluctant to buy them .
Books from Stephen Fry and John Cleese failed to match high expectation . |
184,688 | 7b39e106da2b9f9dba1e6d42a60265e7fcf20d13 | By . David Kent . The animal oracle predictions for the World Cup have begun, with host nation Brazil getting a vote of confidence from its chosen turtle tipster. By making a patriotic choice of food, loggerhead turtle Big Head predicted Tuesday that the host nation will beat Croatia in the opening game of the World Cup on Thursday. Big Head is Brazil’s answer to Germany’s Paul the Octopus, who started the psychic animal craze during the 2010 World Cup and spawned a slew of imitations around the world. Turtle tipster: Big Head the loggerhead turtle is backing Brazil to beat Croatia in the World Cup opener . Humble beginnings: The craze for animal oracles began with Paul the Octopus in 2010 . At the Praia do Forte turtle sanctuary north of Salvador, the 25-year-old male sea turtle was given the choice between eating a fish hung from a Brazilian flag or a Croatian flag. After attempting to eat the fish hung from a football indicating a draw, Big Head chose the one representing Brazil. The small crowd of onlookers cheered in appreciation of Big Head’s choice. P.S. Brazil's new sensation is not the first Big Head in football. Brian Clough was famously known as Old Big 'Ead for his self-confidence and acerbic opinions. Pretenders: China will use a squad of Panda cubs to conduct their predictions this time round . Caught out: Paul eventually came unstuck when Germany lost to Spain in the World Cup semi-finals . End of the road: Luckily German fans took Paul's mistake in good spirits . The original: Former Nottingham Forest manager Brian Clough was known as Old Big 'Ead . | Big Head the loggerhead turtle backs Brazil to beat Croatia in World Cup .
Brazilian reptile is the latest animal oracle craze to predict football scores .
Germany's Paul the Octopus started the trend off at 2010 World Cup .
China have a pack of Panda cubs doing their predicting . |
248,987 | ce3114fd55e1489cde3da5fc22a9c31d47912118 | By . Reuters Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 15:01 EST, 6 May 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 15:03 EST, 6 May 2012 . Amish children raised on rural farms in northern Indiana suffer from asthma and allergies less often even than Swiss farm kids, a group known to be relatively free from allergies, according to a new study. 'The rates are very, very low,' said Dr. Mark Holbreich, . the study's lead author. 'So there's something that we feel is even . more protective in the Amish' than in European farming communities. Healthy: A study compared Amish children in Indiana to children on farms in Switzerland, where most of the Amish originated . What it is about growing up on farms -- and Amish farms in particular -- that seems to prevent allergies remains unclear. Researchers have long observed the so-called 'farm effect' -- the low allergy and asthma rates . found among kids raised on farms -- in central Europe, but less is . known about the influence of growing up on North American farms. Holbreich, an allergist in Indianapolis, has been . treating Amish communities in Indiana for two decades, but he noticed . that very few Amish actually had any allergies. As studies on the farm effect in Europe began to emerge . several years ago, Holbreich wondered if the same phenomenon might be . found in the United States. He teamed up with European colleagues to compare Swiss farming children and non-farming children to Amish kids in Indiana. Just five percent of Amish children had allergies, compared to 11.2 percent of all Swiss children . Amish families, who can trace their roots back to . Switzerland, typically farm using methods from the 1800s and they don't . own cars or televisions. The researchers surveyed 157 Amish families, about . 3,000 Swiss farming families, and close to 11,000 Swiss families who did . not live on a farm -- all with children between the ages of six and 12. They found that just five percent of Amish kids had . been diagnosed with asthma, compared to 6.8 percent of Swiss farm kids . and 11.2 percent of the other Swiss children. Similarly, among 138 Amish kids given a skin-prick test . to determine whether they were predisposed to having allergies, only 10 . kids -- or seven percent -- had a positive response. In comparison, 25 percent of the farm-raised Swiss kids . and 44 percent of the other Swiss children had a positive test, the . researchers report in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. The study did not determine why the kids who grew up on . farms were less likely to develop asthma and allergies, but other . research has pointed to exposure to microbes and contact with cows, in . particular, to partially explain the farm effect. Drinking raw cow's milk also seems to be involved, Holbreich said. The going theory is this early exposure to the diverse . potential allergens and pathogens on a farm trains the immune system to . recognize them, but not overreact to the harmless ones. As for why the Amish kids have even lower allergy and . asthma rates than the other farming kids, 'that piece of the puzzle we . really haven't explained,' Holbreich told Reuters Health. He speculated that it could be at least partly a result of the Amish having larger families or spending even more time outside or in barns than people on more modern working farms. Dr Corinna Bowser, an allergist in Cherry Hill, New . Jersey, said there's also a possibility that inherited factors could . play a role. 'The Amish are still of a limited genetic pool, I would . assume, because they're much more segregated than the Swiss kids are,' she told Reuters Health. Holbreich said upcoming studies will further . investigate the differences between the farming groups, with an eye . toward designing possible interventions. For instance, pregnant mothers or young children could . be exposed to the mysterious factors that seem to protect farm kids as a . preventive treatment, he explained. 'The goal is to try to find a way to prevent this . allergy and asthma epidemic that western populations are facing,' Holbreich said. | Study compared children on Amish farms in Indiana to children in Switzerland, where most Amish originate .
Amish children have 5 percent allergy rate, compared to 11.2 percent among Swiss kids . |
49,782 | 8cc09ba4548758518a139f7013cc26f6e84772e4 | A 'detoother' isn't a doctor but a gold-digger and a 'side-dish' certainly isn't something served by a waiter - it's a mistress. These, along with phrases such as 'spewing out buffalos' - which means that you can't speak proper English - are just a few examples of Uganda's unusual, locally-adapted language called 'Uglish.' And for the first time, the unusual Ugandan version of adapted English is set to be published in dictionary form. Uglish, a popular, locally-adapted English language will be published in dictionary form for the first time . 'It is so entrenched right now that, even when you think you cannot use it, you actually find yourself speaking Uglish,' Bernard Sabiiti, the author of the first Uglish dictionary, told AFP. 'Even as I was researching, I was surprised that these words are not English because they were the only ones I knew. 'A word like a 'campuser' - a university student - I used to think was an English word.' Uglish: A Dictionary of Ugandan English, which went on sale in bookshops across the east African country late last year, contains hundreds of popular Uglish terms, some coined by Ugandans as far back as the colonial period. Author of the first Uglish dictionary, Bernard Sabiiti, used to this 'campuser' - a university student - was actually a real English word . Sabiiti, 32, said the informal phrases were greatly influenced by the local Luganda language, and is a 'symptom of a serious problem with our education system' that he claims has been deteriorating since the 1990s. Uglish is largely dependent on sentences being literally translated from local dialects with little regard for context, while vocabulary used is derived from standard English. Meantime, Sabiiti says, influence from the Internet, local media and musicians have seen additional words and phrases created and slowly enter the lexicon. The result is colourful but at times confusing expressions. The language is pervasive in all parts of the country, resulting in colourful, confusing expressions . If you haven't seen someone for a while, for example, you're 'lost', while if you 'design well', you are snappy dresser. Today, Uglish is used by people from all walks of life, but particularly popular with youths. However, English is still the country's working language, and it remains the only medium of instruction in schools and in official business. But Sabiiti said everyone from the president to simple farmers speak at least some Uglish, which varies according to region, tribe and gender, and is regularly seen on signposts. 'MPs are almost notorious at using Uglish, you see it in parliamentary debates,' said Sabiiti. It's so prevalent, in fact, that it's even used in Parliament! MPs are notorious for using Uglish in debates . But it wasn't until 2011, a year after the term Uglish - pronounced 'You-glish' - had been coined on social media, that Sabiiti began keeping newspaper cuttings, conducting interviews and searching online for material for his book. 'I knew that people talked a lot about this, and my friends used to laugh about it,' said the author, who also works for a think tank, which often takes him to the far reaches of the country. His book contains a brief history of Uglish, and a glossary of terms relating to education, telecommunications, society and lifestyle, food, transport, sex and relationships. One phrase commonly used when discussing the latter is 'live sex,' which means unprotected sex - a term thought to have derived from the live European football games Ugandans love to watch. 'When the ministry of health is doing campaigns to warn young people against unprotected sex, they use 'live sex', because everybody will understand it,' said Sabiiti. On the same subject, if you're a 'side-dish', you are someone's mistress. Following the dictionary's release, so many more phrases have been suggested that Sabiiti has decided to do a second edition . Sabiiti's book has proven popular among the middle class, including academics, and with locals and foreigners alike. To date he's sold about a thousand copies. 'I've had incredible feedback from professional linguists, ordinary readers - some even suggesting more phrases - so I'll be doing another edition,' said Sabiiti. 'I don't see it disappearing. I'm looking forward to seeing five years from now how many new words and phrases have joined the lexicon,' he said, adding some teachers, particularly in state schools, are passing Uglish on to their students. Though English is the country's language of instruction, Uglish is extremely popular with young people . But, as the author stresses in the final chapter of his book, there comes a point when Uglish stops being funny. In 1997 Uganda introduced universal primary school education, which eliminated official school fees and made education accessible to millions more children. But literacy rates remain low: more than a quarter of the population cannot read or write, according to the UN, and critics say standards remain low in many schools. 'Uglish is not something that should be encouraged, particularly for young, impressionable children,' he concluded. 'They really should learn what they call proper standard English.' | Uglish is Uganda's strange, locally-adapted English language .
Bernard Sabiiti has authored the first Uglish dictionary .
Usage is so pervasive that even MPs use it in parliamentary debate . |
5,038 | 0e51a6dc81ae4d7c9a64f92640cad40bfa682492 | By . James Rush . PUBLISHED: . 22:48 EST, 22 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 03:40 EST, 23 August 2013 . Wind farms have slashed 'billions' from the value of rural homes, a secret Government report is expected to disclose. The Coalition is in conflict over the critical document on renewable energy because it could prove they damage countryside communities. Liberal Democrat ministers have been accused of trying to suppress the report, commissioned by Environment Secretary Owen Paterson, because it concentrates on 'ideology' not science, sources have said. Today more details of the document have emerged, and it is believed to reveal the impact wind farms have on rural house prices. Mr Paterson described wind farms as a ‘complete scam’ in June and is said to be furious at attempts to hold back his report. Row: Environment Secretary Owen Paterson (left) brought in consultants to establish the loss to house prices caused by onshore wind, but Liberal Democrat Energy Secretary Ed Davey (right) is accused of suppressing it . Consultants Frontier Economics were brought in to establish the loss to house prices caused by onshore wind. The work is part of a wider study into how renewables impact on the countryside and the rural economy. Glyn Davies, the Conservative MP for . Montgomeryshire, told the Daily Telegraph: 'I’m expecting this report to . find that house prices will be reduced over the country by a measure of . billions. It is my view that any unbiased study will show that. What is . absolutely crucial is that this report is allowed to come out.' Liberal Democrat Energy Secretary Ed Davey has played down reports of a row with his Conservative Cabinet colleague in a letter to the Daily Telegraph. He said: 'My department is not blocking a DEFRA report on the impact of wind farms. 'The Government is committed to moving to a secure, affordable, low carbon energy system, without excessively relying on any single technology. 'So, this cross-government study will look at maximising the benefits and minimising the negative impacts of all technologies, including shale gas and nuclear.' The work is part of a wider study into how renewables impact on the countryside and the rural economy . The report is a joint project between . Mr Paterson's Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs . (DEFRA) and the Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC). A . DEFRA spokesman said: 'It is our role to rural-proof policy. We need to . ensure that energy is generated in a way that is sustainable. Sustainability includes the economic as well as social and environmental . impacts.' A Government spokeswoman said: 'We need to ensure that energy is generated in a way that is sustainable and understand the effects that different technologies have on the environment and on communities across the country. 'DECC and DEFRA are working together on this report, which is not yet complete, to ensure that it meets the usual standards and quality assurances that you would expect from any Government publication. 'A diverse energy mix is the best way to meet our energy security requirements, our climate change commitments and keep energy bills affordable.' | Environment Secretary Owen Paterson seeking to establish house price loss .
Tories say wind farms have slashed 'billions' from the value of rural homes .
Work is part of wider study into how renewables impact countryside .
Energy Secretary Ed Davey played down reports of row with Tory colleague . |
104,691 | 131303aa3a497f25dd3f2d82f456882f934c8c63 | When Belle Gibson was given the shocking news five years ago that she had terminal brain cancer, she quickly decided conventional medical treatments were taking a heavy toll on her body. After undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation, the Melbourne mother decided to try something less invasive and harsh and starting using holistic medications and whole foods. The move not only prolonged her life, but inspired her to design a food and lifestyle app, called The Whole Pantry, which proved so popular she was flown out to Silicone Valley where she was told her app was to be included on the Apple Watch, unveiled last week. Belle Gibson founder and developer of The Whole Pantry app revealed she's spent the last month working on the Apple Watch in California . 'It didn’t take me long to notice the stress conventional medicine was putting on my body so I started looking for an alternative,' Ms Gibson told Daily Mail Australia. 'I was lying there one night and I read an article about how lemon in water can act as a natural detox something clicked and that's when I changed the way I ate and lived.' Ms Gibson only eats foods that are free from genetically modified organisms, gluten, dairy and sugar. It was the cancer that pushed her to develop the world's first health, wellness and lifestyle app, The Whole Pantry, which encourages healthy eating and has community groups to help those looking to live more wholesome lifestyles. The app launched in August 2013 and was downloaded 200,000 times in the first month. Its success led Apple to come knocking when the tech company went looking for hip new apps to include on its newest must-have item, the Apple Watch - developed in the highest secrecy before its launch last week. A month ago, Ms Gibson received a phone call from Apple HQ asking her to fly to Silicon Valley to work with them on a secret project. Ms Gibson collapsed at her sister's birthday party for 40 minutes. Episodes like this are a harsh reminder of her cancer . Only then was it revealed the secret project was the Apple Watch. The app's icon is featured front and centre on the Apple Watch's face. 'The fact that Apple have supported me and The Whole Pantry is huge considering how small our team is and the fact it is our first app,' Ms Gibson said. The app developed by Ms Gibson and co-designer Alex Benevento helps make the Apple Watch more user-friendly and hands-free. She is now 25 and the mother of a three-year-old son, Oliver. The tumour in her brain is still there, and regular seizures act as painful reminders of her condition. 'At Oli's party I collapsed in pain and had multiple seizures over the following 40 minutes. This is the worst I've ever been with them. I have seizures often as a result of my brain cancer, but nothing ever this long or intense,' she said. She refers to the app as an entry-point for people wanting to start a more wholesome way of life. It is loaded with recipes, product recommendations and tips. It has also become a community of supporters and people who share her philosophy of only putting natural things into her body. Ms Gibson was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer and only given four months to live in 2009, today she is a leading app developer encouraging people to lead more wholesome lives via her app, The Whole Pantry . The green, doubled-leaf Whole Pantry app icon features front and centre on the new Apple Watch, just to the right of the 'play; icon . Just a month after it's release the app already had 200,000 downloads. Belle Gibson the founder donates 95 per cent of the profits to charities and organisations . Cook Mode is the new feature which the Apple Watch will be helpful with as you will be able to have a recipe to swipe step-buy-step from without taking up any bench space. Another new feature that will be coming soon is one where the Apple Watch will be able to detect what items you need off your The Whole Pantry shopping list and remind you to buy them when near a grocery store. 'It makes shopping for recipe items that much easier if the experience is hands-free.' The app will be relaunched in a few months so that it can be compatible with the new and current devices and will have 450 new recipes. The wholefoods movement is based around getting back to basics and eating unprocessed or refined food . The app is no ordinary recipe app, it encourages people to make changes within their lives. 'We are not trying to convert people from one diet to another. We are just tying to encourage people to eat more whole foods and move their bodies.' A book carrying the same name as the app will be launched through Penguin in October. 'I just got the first hard copy of the book and I'm so excited Ms Gibson said, 'I just am forever grateful to my team and my online community who I wake up for every morning.' The Whole Pantry app developer Belle Gibson will soon release a book featuring 80 new recipes and a starter guide to a wholesome lifestyle . | A 25-year-old Melbourne woman's app is a core feature of the new Apple Watch .
Belle Gibson was approached by Apple executives a month ago to work on a secret project .
Apple wanted to include her The Whole Pantry app on its latest gadget .
The Whole Pantry helps people adopt a wholesome diet and lifestyle .
The app has been downloaded more than 200,000 times in a month . |
256,563 | d810ac97bf3ef7fbd4462d3778b5fbff5ee613d6 | British Airways boss Willie Walsh has predicted that the much-vaunted third runway for Heathrow will never be built because dithering politicians lack the courage to make tough decisions. As a result, Heathrow will be overtaken permanently next year by Dubai as the world’s busiest airport, he said. Mr Walsh warned the situation could force airlines including BA, which has its own terminal at the airport, to base themselves elsewhere – resulting in British job losses and stunted economic growth. British Airways boss Willie Walsh (pictured) has predicted Heathrow's third runway will not happen because dithering politicians lack the courage to make tough decisions . The withering attack came just hours after Government airports tsar Sir Howard Davies launched a 12-week consultation into UK airport expansion. Three options are on the table: Two rival plans at Heathrow – one for a third runway and another to extend an existing one – and an option for a second runway at Gatwick. However, Mr Walsh, CEO of BA’s parent company, the International Airlines Group, said that ‘like many other world-class reports’, it would gather dust on a shelf and never be implemented. ‘Politicians won’t be brave enough to grasp the nettle. I don’t think we have the politicians in place who will deal with it,’ he said. Britain’s political class lacked vision and had ‘given up on world ambition,’ he added. Sir Howard also warned of the economic damage to the UK if politicians failed to act speedily on his final report due just after the general election in May next year. He said of the next Government: ‘If they duck that, they will pay. We are reaching then end of the runway.’ But Mr Walsh said: ‘Maybe I am cynical but I remain totally convinced that nothing will actually happen.’ Sir Howard’s commission says an extra runway at Heathrow or Gatwick will cost billions of pounds more than predicted - pictured is Heathrow's terminal 5 . During a Q&A session with veteran BBC broadcaster John Humphrys at the Airport Operators Association annual conference in London, Mr Walsh said he had already planned BA’s future on the basis that neither Heathrow nor Gatwick will expand. He said: ‘Growth in the UK will be constricted. Heathrow is full. But my business doesn’t just relate to Heathrow. We will continue to grow. Not all of that growth will be at Heathrow.’ He said that because BA was part of IAG, with sister Spanish airline Iberia based in Madrid, they had the flexibility to expand abroad. Mr Walsh said that the gulf state of Dubai was expanding its airports massively. ‘Next year they will overtake Heathrow as the busiest airport in the world,’ he said. Dubai International currently has two runways. In the first three months of this year it overtook Heathrow as the busiest airport in the world, before falling back because of work on its runways. Mr Walsh said Dubai's airport (pictured) will soon overtake Heathrow 'as the busiest airport in the world' Mr Walsh added: ‘Once the work has been completed they are expected to overtake us by quarterly passenger traffic early next year. That will become permanent.’ And Dubai said in September that it planned to invest £20 billion in a mega-hub airport in the desert to accommodate 240 million passengers a year, dwarfing the 72 million passengers that Heathrow serves. Mr Walsh said Dubai had support from politicians and business leaders with ‘vision and real aspiration’. He pointed out that the terms of Sir Howard’s Airport Commission consultation was to ensure that the UK remained only as the major hub ‘in Europe’. Mr Walsh said of UK politicians: ‘They have given up on world ambition. We’ve gone from world ambition to European ambition. What next? It’s disappointing.’ Sir Howard’s commission says an extra runway at Heathrow or Gatwick will cost billions of pounds more than predicted. A new Thames Estuary airport favoured by Boris Johnson has already been ruled out, although the London Mayor still insists it is the best option. AIRPORT security is becoming so extreme that passengers could be forced to walk through scanners ‘in hospital gowns’, Willie Walsh said. He claimed many checks, including rules on liquids, were unnecessary and simply caused long queues. Mr Walsh said: ‘[Security is] still the most frustrating part of the customer journey that I experience. It’s also the area that frustrates our customers most. ‘You are still taking off your shoes, which I’m sure is not necessary. We’re taking everything out of our bag when there’s technology which can deal with that.’ He added: ‘In ten years’ time you will have to go through security in a hospital gown. You won’t be allowed to wear clothes.’ He said that if security chiefs started with a blank piece of paper, they would dispense with many of the checks, and complained of confusing inconsistencies in the rules. He told the Airport Operators Association annual conference in London: ‘Sometimes you have to take your iPad out, other times you can leave it in. Some tell you to take your shoes off, others to keep them on. Belt on? Belt off. ‘Why is it I can have my iPad in my bag this time, but not the next time? These are things which don’t make sense.’ When challenged that airport bosses did not believe it was an issue, Mr Walsh retorted: ‘That’s not what my customers tell me.’ | Willie Walsh has predicted third runway for Heathrow will never be built .
Says dithering politicians lack the courage to make tough decisions .
Warns situation could force airlines to base themselves elsewhere .
Attack comes after consultation into UK airport expansion was launched . |
112,819 | 1d923d8fae93083984f89e9f1ceb1b42bc7f7fdb | (CNN) -- A Venezuelan prosecutor on Friday formally charged opposition leader Leopoldo Lopez with public incitement, property damage, arson and conspiracy. General Prosecutor Luisa Ortega Diaz announced the charges at a press conference in Caracas, a day before the legal deadline to keep Lopez in custody expires. Lopez, 42, a former mayor and presidential candidate, has been held in a military jail for well more than a month. The government of President Nicolas Maduro originally accused him of terrorism and murder, but those charges were later dropped. He is accused of inciting anti-government protests throughout Venezuela that began February 12. Venezuela's state run news agency said that 39 people have died and more than 600 injured in clashes. The government blames the protests on "a wave of violence fostered by right-wing leaders in the country." If found guilty, Lopez could face nearly 14 years in prison. Lopez, a fiery speaker and charismatic leader, has long been a threat to the socialists in power in Venezuela. Back in 2008, the government of then-President Hugo Chavez banned him from running for public office, accusing him of corruption and misuse of public funds. Lopez countered that it was all political retribution and that he had nothing to hide. He took his case all the way to the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, where he was cleared three years later. Earlier this year, Lopez organized protests demanding better security, an end to shortages and protected freedom of speech. CNN's Rafael Romo and Anna-Maja Rappard contributed to this story . | Opposition leader Leopoldo Lopez is charged with public incitement and conspiracy .
Lopez has been held in military jail for over a month .
39 people have died and over 600 have been injured in anti-government protests .
If found guilty, Lopez could face nearly 14 years in prison. |
92,061 | 0267a0fa7e3ff3cb0a78012d605dd9463f5234c1 | By . Paul Harris and James Tozer . PUBLISHED: . 18:21 EST, 18 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 02:50 EST, 19 November 2013 . There's a place for everything inside the Walsh family’s six-bedroom home, and everything’s in its place. If only there was space for anything else. For wherever there is a nook or cranny, it is occupied by an ornament. There’s enough blue delft china to start a pottery shop and not one wall remains unadorned. Save for a few square inches of kitchen worktop (not counting the toilet lid and cistern) barely a single flat surface is visible. Take a seat (if you can): Plumped up cushions, lamps and trinkets fill the lounge of the Walsh family's six-bedroom home . There's enough blue delft china to start a pottery shop and not one wall remains unadorned. Save for a few square inches of sofa and carpet - matching of course . In the 13 months the immaculately kept house has been on the market, it hasn't been to anyone else's tastes. Meanwhile the semi has become the subject of an internet snob-fest, with critics from Mumsnet to Facebook offering unkind opinions . Minimalist is a word unlikely to have been used much in this house. Even the modest size bathroom boasts a chandelier. Nor is there any escape in the garden, awash with ornaments, statues and ironwork. Naturally, it is all a question of personal taste. Alas, in the 13 months the immaculately kept house has been on the market, it hasn’t been to anyone else’s. It is, as estate agents tend to say, still waiting for the right buyer. Meanwhile the otherwise anonymous semi has become the subject of an internet snob-fest, with critics from Mumsnet to Facebook offering unkind opinions on the décor as the Rightmove property website details clock up thousands of hits and go viral. Yesterday the downsizing family trying to sell the house answered the doorbell (the chimes play Oh My Darling Clementine) but declined to comment on the home’s unlikely celebrity status. It is understood they are baffled by the interest, and reportedly offended by some of the less polite criticism online. One Mumsnet contributor suggested having a £1-a-head whip-round to buy it as a competition prize. Another said that simply to look at the pictures ‘gives me a panic attack’. On Facebook, ‘Call in the House Doctor!’ was one de-cluttering suggestion; another speculated over whether the three dogs in front of the fireplace were stuffed. The house has been owned by 56-year-old Gillian Walsh and her second husband David since 1986. Her distinctive taste in furnishings formed the backdrop for bringing up three children by her first marriage, as well as five children with 58-year-old Mr Walsh . In October last year it was on the market for just under £350,000 but the price has since been cut by £50,000 and is now marked as a 'premium listing' On the plus side, however, many declared admiration for whoever does the dusting at 45 Forefield Lane, a leafy street in Crosby, on the outskirts of Liverpool. The house has been owned by 56-year-old Gillian Walsh and her second husband David since 1986. Her distinctive taste in furnishings formed the backdrop for bringing up three children by her first marriage, as well as five children with 58-year-old Mr Walsh. In October last year it was on the market for just under £350,000 but the price has since been cut by £50,000 and is now marked as a ‘premium listing’. Crosby is better known nationally for sculptor Antony Gormley’s eerie collection of 6ft iron casts of his body, which stand looking out to sea on the beach. Cherie Blair was raised a few streets away in the Waterloo neighbourhood. Yesterday the downsizing family trying to sell the house answered the doorbell (the chimes play Oh My Darling Clementine) but declined to comment on the home's unlikely celebrity status . Despite some less than kind comments about the chintzy decor, cascading silk blooms and mountains of plump satin cushions - some on social networks have praised whoever 'does the dusting' in the immaculately kept house . In a textbook piece of estate agent blurb, the details give not a hint of the décor, leaving the photographs, perhaps, to speak for themselves . Nor is there any escape from the clutter in the garden, awash with ornaments, statues and ironwork . 'They love their home but it's too big for them now,' a neighbour confided yesterday. 'They don't see what all the fuss is about. It's the house they're selling, not the ornaments' In a textbook piece of estate agent blurb, the details give not a hint of the décor, leaving the photographs, perhaps, to speak for themselves. How the agent managed to give accurate dimensions for the rooms must surely have been a triumph for a steady hand and laser-measure technology. ‘They love their home but it’s too big for them now,’ a neighbour confided yesterday. ‘They don’t see what all the fuss is about. It’s the house they’re selling, not the ornaments. 'But it will take them a while to pack everything up when they move.’ | Sea of comfortable clutter lies within seemingly modest house in a leafy street in Crosby, on outskirts of Liverpool .
Even the modest size bathroom boasts a .
chandelier. Nor is there any escape in the garden, awash with ornaments .
The six bedroom house has been owned by 56-year-old Gillian Walsh and her second husband David since 1986 .
In October last year it was on the market for just under £350,000 but the price has since been cut by £50,000 . |
129,698 | 33aa49a768ea34630d400056ed841a0d0dbd4a3e | 2011 a record year for firearm sales in the U.S with 11million sold . Experts say sales driven by fear President Obama will change gun laws if he wins a second term . 2012 Doomsday preppers and the popularity of zombie films and television shows have added to the boost in sales since January . By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 22:19 EST, 5 April 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 23:04 EST, 5 April 2012 . The unusual combination of 2012 . apocalypse fears, popular killer-zombie shows and the potential . re-election of President Obama has led to a nationwide spike in gun . sales. A similar increase . was noted in 2009 during President Obama's first term and gun dealers . and buyers say they fear what a second term lame duck Obama . administration may do. Sales . have increased to such an extent that manufacturers such as Sturm, . Ruger & Co. are struggling to keep up with the demand. Record year so far: Sales of firearms have increased so much that manufacturers are struggling to keep up with the demand . The . Southport, Connecticut-based company has suspended new orders after . taking over one million requests for guns in the first three months of . this year. 'Sales usually . increase this time of year with tax returns, but this year has been . higher than most,' said Mike Weeks, owner of Georgia Gun Store in . Gainesville, Georgia. 'People are scared their gun rights are going to be curtailed after the election.' Firearms saw a similar boost in sales during the early months of President Obama's first term in 2009 . This follows a record 2011, when nearly 11 million firearms were sold in the U.S according to the National Shooting Sports Foundation. The $4 billion guns and ammo industry in America has been one sector that has bucked the depressed economic trend since 2008. Noting his own sales have risen by around 30 per cent, Mr Weeks now says that he sells ammo by the case. 'Usually . people come in to buy three or four boxes for target practice. Now they . are coming in asking what kind of deals they could get on a case,' said . Mr Weeks. The common denominator in these increases according to industry experts is the looming November 6 election. 'It’s definitely the election year,' said Jason Hanson, a former CIA officer and personal security specialist to FoxNews.com. 'People feel that Obama will serve a second term and with it their gun rights taken away, so they are stocking up. Zombies and the Apocalypse: Firearm sales have been boosted by those anticipating 2012 as the end of the world . 'They’re also worried that the economy is not getting any better and that they need to protect themselves.' Upon . President Obama taking office in 2009 firearm enthusiasts have rushed . to dealers worried he would tighten gun control and sales have continued . to grow during his term as President. While . campaigning for office as in 2008 he famously told . fundraisers of his frustration that Midwestern and Rust-Belt voters . 'cling to guns or religion' and many supporters of the Second Ammendment . doubt he is fully behind it. 'He's never been pro-gun,' explained Cris Parsons of his thoughts on President Obama. Mr Parsons, 31, runs a Texas gun depository called the Houston Armory. To . date, explains Parsons, the President has been 'pretty coy' regarding . guns and the gun dealer feels this will remain the case during the . campaign. If President Obama was to adopt a contrary position Mr Parsons reckons it will 'upset a lot of people.' As a backdrop to this, gun makers stocks are rising. Sturm, Ruger & Co's share price has risen 55 percent this year and Smith & Wesson is up 91 percent. A strong litmus test for U.S gun sales is the FBI's National Instant Background Check System. Firearm enthusiasts contributed record sales to the $4 billion industry last year . This allows federally licensed firearm dealers to conduct mandatory background checks on purchasers of new and used weapons. Statistics up until December 2011 indicated a 19th straight month of background check increases year on year. November 25, 2011, saw the record for most background checks in one day --129,166 and became known as 'Black Friday'. However politics aside there are other explanations for the current boom. 'There're the 'preppers,' explained Parsons, 'and then there's this whole Zombie Apocalypse thing.' An entire industry has grown up around preppers and the fear of ancient Mayan prophecies predicting the end of the world. As . many as three million Americans now count themselves in that category . buying up guns, ammo and food in anticipation of a solar flare or . catastrophic asteroid hit before the year is out. Ready for anything: There are an estimated three million preppers in the United States alone . A . staggering 61 per cent of 1,000 polled by the National Geographic . channel believe there will be a catastrophic event in the next 20 years, . and people want to be prepared. Combined . with the preppers is the growth in popularity of Zombie shows such as . 'The Walking Dead' which has led firearms manufacturers to produce . themed guns and bullets. 'We can't keep it in stock,' explained Cris Parsons of his line of Zombie Max ammunition. 'It comes in a cool, colorful box with a Zombie on it.' However, in reality business is booming for the American firearms industry. 'There’s . a lot of speculation that the Second Amendment will be affected by the . next presidential term,' said Bret Jordan, a stock analyst specialising . in firearms to FoxNews.com. 'There . was one investors' call and an executive was asked what he thought would . happen if Obama was elected a second term and he said, "No one in the . gun industry will tell you they like Obama, but everyone will vote for . him."' | 2011 a record year for firearm sales in the U.S with 11million sold .
Experts say sales driven by fear President Obama will change gun laws if he wins a second term .
2012 Doomsday preppers and the popularity of zombie films and television shows have added to the boost in sales since January . |
151,453 | 4fce731d92c97f64f80448d13aa77ef7f9bbaeeb | Millionaire fashion designer Dame Vivienne Westwood has suggested poorer people should 'eat less' so they can afford to buy organic food. The outspoken designer made the comments as she delivered a petition to Downing Street protesting about genetically modified food. When told that not everyone can afford to eat organic food she replied, saying: 'Eat less'. The outspoken designer claimed that people who cannot afford to buy organic food should 'eat less' Dame Vivienne Westwood made the remarks after delivering a petition to Downing Street warning British people of the dangers of GM food and farming . Her comments drew criticism from the food bank charity Trussell Trust, which works to ensure everyone has access to food. Chris Mould, Trussell Trust Chairman told MailOnline: 'Every day Trussell Trust foodbanks provide thousands of people who are facing going hungry with three days' nutritionally balanced food. 'The question for us is not about whether food is organic or not, it's about how we ensure that everyone has access to affordable, healthy food. 'At the moment there are far too many people who are struggling to feed their families full stop, that is the challenge.' But today, Ms Westwood told MailOnline that people should 'eat less' meat and junk food. She said: 'I'm deeply upset if anyone would think I don't care about starving people or don't understand the terrible situation some people are in, quite the opposite, I have spent years campaigning for social and human rights issues. 'My comments were related to eating less meat and junk food. 'People are eating far too much factory farmed meat and junk food which is bad for you and doesn't provide the nutrients you need. 'You can source good food and farmed meat for less.' Ms Westwood, who is an ardent environmental campaigner, made the controversial remarks in an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live after delivering the petition to Number 10. She spoke over an interview with Labour MP Michael Meacher to suggest people should 'eat less' so they can afford organic food. She said: 'They don't have any choice that's the point. We have got all these processed food which is the main reason people are getting fat. 'They're not actually good for you - they don't give you strength, they give you weight. 'I eat vegetables and fruit. I don't eat meat. I believe meat is bad for me - I don't eat it. It's also bad for the animals. But if there was a movement to produce more organic food and less of the horrible food, then organic food would obviously be a good value price, wouldn't it?' The designer's flagship store in Conduit Street, London - she has six exclusively owned shops, four in London, one in Leeds and one in Milan . Ms Westwood, who is part of British fashion history best-known for pioneering the punk look, has previously said that food prices should be increased because they do not reflect the impact that food manufacturing processes have on the environment. Last month she said that ‘clothes should cost more’, adding: ‘Food should cost more too. Something is wrong when you can buy a cooked chicken for £2.’ Despite making her fortune from selling clothes, she added: ‘Fashion is a terrible thing, it’s all about tempting to buy. But they should buy less.’ She has also previously said that being a vegetarian can cure the disabled. Discussing the health benefits of choosing a veggie lifestyle, the fashion designer said people in wheelchairs have recovered due to a meat-free diet. She also argued she living proof of the apparently miracle diet, claiming that it healed rheumatism in her finger. 'There are certain clinics where it is really strict vegetarian and there are people who have been in wheelchairs who have recovered from this diet,' she said. 'It does cure all kinds of things if you have a vegetarian diet,' she added. 'I used to have rheumatism — and I have a crocked finger. 'But now I don't have any rheumatic pain any more.' Miss Westwood lives in a smart townhouse in Clapham, south London with her husband Andreas Kronthaler, who is 25 years her junior. In a 1989 issue of Tatler, Vivienne Westwood appeared on the magazine's cover dressed in a suit she had made for then prime minister Margaret Thatcher. Her flame-hair conservatively coiffed, beneath the designer's image were the word: 'This woman used to be a punk'. Westwood's appearance on Tatler reportedly infuriated Mrs Thatcher. The edition has been hailed as one of the best British magazine covers of all time. In 1992, Westwood was awarded an OBE, which she collected from Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace. At the ceremony, Westwood was knicker-less, which was later captured by a photographer in the courtyard of Buckingham Palace. Years later, she sent a model down the catwalk yielding a sign in support of the prisoners of Guantanamo Bay. It read: 'Fair trial my a***! Justice for the prisoners in Guantanamo Bay. Reprieve' Slowing down climate change and preventing fracking are other causes dear to the designer's heart. Elsewhere she has been pictured at Occupy London protests and visited WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange at the Ecuadorian Embassy. This year, she cut off her hair because, according to her spokesman, 'we must all wake up to Climate Change.' In September she used her packed London Fashion Week showcase to pledge her undivided support of the Yes campaign for Scottish independence. Sending models sporting Yes badges down the runway, the designer left a statement explaining her views on every seat in the packed venue. Later brandishing Better Together campaigners as 'frightened and stupid', Dame Vivienne said tearing the 307-year-old union apart could be 'the turning point towards a better world'. Vivienne Westwood at an anti-fracking protest in Balcombe, Sussex, in August last year . Kate Moss poses with the designer who pinned a cellophane sign protesting against climate change to her dress . A model at the 2008/2009 autumn/winter show carried a sign in support of the prisoners at Guantanamo Bay . This 1989 issue of Tatler saw Westwood dress up as then prime minister Margaret Thatcher . | Designer said people who can't afford organic food should 'eat less'
Made remarks at Downing Street criticising genetically modified food .
Has said food prices should be raised to reflect manufacturing processes .
Trussell Trust said 'many people struggle to feed their families full stop'
Ms Westwood said today people should eat less meat and junk food .
Said 'I'm deeply upset if anyone thinks I don't care about starving people' |
146,764 | 49c9c64ba5820f4b08202802c20524730adaae97 | By . Lorraine Candy . PUBLISHED: . 17:58 EST, 29 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 17:58 EST, 29 January 2014 . Couldn't resist: There's a new addition to the Candy household (posed by model) Rule Number One of parenting. Never go into a pet shop with your children (or anyone's children). Actually, I suggest that for the duration of parenthood you should avoid a pet shop with anyone under the age of 25 at all costs. Don't even walk past one with your offspring. Avert your eyes, cross the road. Because buying a pet, like weighing yourself on the first Monday after Christmas, is something you must do alone. How on earth we managed to get through . a decade of parenting without stepping over the threshold of an Animal . Magic, Petcetera or Paws 'n' Claws is beyond me. Friends didn't believe us, but we stayed strong. Until Gracie-in-the-middle's tenth birthday last week. My . daughter's desperation for something of her own to look after and love . was becoming uncomfortable. The continual pleading was disarming and . non-stop. She talked of nothing else. It was a relentless campaign . unlike any others before it. Then one night as I tucked her into bed she softly murmured: 'Just one fish.' And I crumbled. She looked so sad, her little pale face all miserable as she drifted off. And I couldn't help but admire her dogged persistence: even in dreamland she remembered her mission (I'm sending her CV to Facebook boss Sheryl Sandberg pronto). So 'Gracie challenges' were set; many sticker reward boards were speedily completed. Her room was show-home tidy, even inside the cupboards and under the bed. Homework was done early, books read all the way to the end. Sibling rivalries were halted. I think she may even have gone as far as eating a Brussels sprout if I'd asked. So we gave in. She could have one goldfish. 'One goldfish,' I repeated loudly in the car park of Pets At Home as all four of them bounced towards the sliding doors with the enthusiasm of orphans headed to Disneyland. An hour later I had a tank with no fish in it and Unwanted Walter, a hamster the size of an earring, on my lap. Remind you of anyone? Walter runs manically on his wheel getting nowhere . There are 24 million pets in this country (double the number of pensioners, apparently) and we've got one no one else wanted. Unwanted Walter is what happens when you take all your children into a pet shop, slightly hungover and sleep deprived (us, not the children). If I'd been a Lone Ranger on the birthday fish mission I'd have been able to resist 'the wall of rejected pets', but four sets of teary eyes dissolved my resolve on the 'no rodents' clause in my parenting contract. For the wall of unloved pets is one of the saddest places in childhood. It even brought a tear to my eye and that hasn't happened since the baby elephant died in front of its mum on David Attenborough's Africa series. There the furry little fellas sit with their 'loser' CVs written up beside their cages, detailing why they are unloveable. Name game . 'Hamster' comes from the 17th-century German word hamustro. In turn, the German verb hamstern - 'to hoard' - comes from their behaviour . It said Unwanted Walter, the dwarf hamster, had been brought back twice, once because he'd been bullied in the cage by his siblings (code for fighting). He'd been on the wall for a record amount of time - he was thus the least appealing of the lot. 'Oh my God, that is terrible,' the kids wailed, no doubt imagining themselves in that position, as all children generally think about is themselves. We'd just been told that we couldn't buy a fish until we'd set up a tank at home and had the water tested after a week (who knew the world's most boring pet would need so much care?). So for a moment it looked as if we could walk away from the pet shop animal-free. But then they spotted 'the wall'. They said they'd give up their pocket money for a month to buy hamster accessories and quickly outlined a surprisingly well thought through cage-cleaning rota. But I was already smitten with Walter, a tiny tearaway with a big personality. I liked the way he hurtled around the cage manically. It reminded me of something. 'We'll take the one no one wants,' I said to everyone's surprise and gratitude. Everyone loves Unwanted Walter, despite his tendency to nip. 'He's an attack hamster,' my seven-year-old son tells me as Walter hangs off his little finger with a determined glint in his eye. Anyway, it's a good job we got Walter because Dave, the fish we got a week later, died 24 hours after putting him in the tank. LORRAINE CANDY is editor-in-chief of Elle. | Rule Number One of parenting. Never go into a pet shop with your children .
Lorraine broke the rule and returned home with an 'attack hamster' |
92,866 | 0372bb3daaa906b7e2b7e8f3323d4c7b9b9e3bab | By . Joanna Blythman . After the horsemeat scandal of earlier this year, we now have the chicken fiasco, where major chains have been exposed for selling frozen chicken with shockingly high levels of added water. An investigation this week revealed that some chicken breasts on sale in the UK are made up of no less than 20 per cent water. What you think is a juicy chicken breast may in fact have been pumped full of water, either mechanically injected or through an industrial process known as tumbling — and what is worse, chemical additives are also added during the procedure. Additives: What you think is a juicy chicken breast may in fact have been pumped full of water, either mechanically injected or through an industrial process known as tumbling . The study highlighted one case of raw, frozen chicken breasts imported from Brazil into Britain and then sold in our supermarkets. While still in Brazil, salt and corn oil were added to the chicken breasts. Once in Britain, the breasts were thawed out and put through the vacuum-tumbling process. This saw water and chemical additives absorbed into the meat, increasing its weight and giving it a juicier, but wholly unnatural, texture. The breasts were then re-frozen and sold in the aisles of major retailers such as Aldi, Asda and Iceland. A curious double standard seems to be in operation here: home cooks are sternly warned never to re-freeze previously frozen meat, unless they have cooked it thoroughly. But behind the scenes of food manufacturing, frozen meat is being defrosted, pumped up with water and additives, then re-frozen all over again, and consumers are none the wiser. It is not illegal to add water and additives to chicken, as long as the additions are clearly displayed on the label. But the technical legalities are not the only issue here. There is also the unfairness of asking the public to pay more for a product than is justified. Many of us will feel cheated at the thought of having to pay for the added water, which works out at up to £1.54 a kilo. What’s more, these tumbled chicken breasts are a symbol of how heavily-industrialised, intensive production now dominates the food chain, robbing the public of the natural flavours and wholesome goodness that we ought to expect from a succulent chicken breast. What is particularly worrying is that we do not yet know the implications for our health, since there has been no in-depth analysis of the consequences of eating these adulterated meats. But it is hardly likely that eating chicken filled with water, salts, oil and additives will prove beneficial.As the GM controversy continues to demonstrate, working against nature is rarely a good idea. And that is precisely what is being done here. Normally, when meat is cooked, it loses liquid, but the meat processors are doing precisely the opposite, by actually pumping in fluids containing a cocktail of chemicals. "Their art consists of taking a pig’s ear — sometimes literally — and turning it into a profitable silk purse." - Joanna Blythman . Though this week’s news has focused on chicken, the technique of adding water and additives is applied to a vast range of produce, including ham, bacon, frankfurters, sausages, turkey rolls, luncheon meat, sandwich fillers and ready meals. Indeed, almost any low-grade, mass-produced, frozen or processed meat will have been treated this way. And it goes beyond meat. Even seafoods such as scallops are regularly soaked in water with phosphates to increase their size — though inevitably much of the taste is lost. The sheer number of foods that are adulterated in this way attests to the boundless creativity, advanced technology and cost-cutting zeal of the food processors. Their art consists of taking a pig’s ear — sometimes literally — and turning it into a profitable silk purse. Their central objective is to make the meat or seafood absorb a significant quantity of water. The rationale is simple. Water is cheap and easy to source. Meat is much more expensive. The result of this process is inevitably that the customer ends up paying way over the odds for the water. The controversial process usually begins when the manufacturer acquires his supply of what is called ‘trim’, usually pieces of boned, frozen meat. His next task is to bulk out the trim by getting it to absorb water and additives. For this to happen, the manufacturer has to create a ‘brine’, a chemical solution that will encourage the meat to retain liquid using binding agents. These binding agents are usually from five main sources, which can be used separately or mixed together. The first is transglutaminase, an enzyme that is essentially a natural glue. Indeed, it is sometimes called ‘meat glue’. The second is from a group collectively known as hydrocolloids, substances that form a gel on contact with water. These hydrocolloids include carrageenan, which is derived from seaweed, as well as the exotically named locust bean gum — extracted from the seeds of the carob tree — and guar gum, which derives from ground guar beans. The third widely-used agent, especially in seafood, is phosphate, which is taken from phosphoric acid and is valued for its ability to make oil adhere to water. The fourth is fibre, made from a source such as wheat, citrus or cellulose. And the fifth is protein powder, which is made by extracting collagen from pigs’ skins. Protein powder comes in several different forms, such as pork pellets and broth powders — made from dehydrated, skimmed chicken stock. There is also a soya protein that tends to be made from genetically modified crops. Supermarkets: The breasts were then re-frozen and sold in the aisles of major retailers such as Aldi, Asda and Iceland . Once you know this, none of our mass-produced foodstuffs sound remotely appetising. But it gets worse, for the next task is to get the brine into the meat. This can be done in two ways. The first is through vacuum- tumbling, the method that has been in the news this week.The most common approach when it comes to vacuum-tumbling is for the meat to be placed with the brine in a machine that looks like a concrete mixer. The meat is then agitated as the mixer spins, the continual turning accelerating the absorption. The second method is the injection of the brine straight into the structure of the meat through a series of needles attached to an instrument that looks rather like a steel brush. One company has boasted that, through the injection method, 100 kilos of meat can be easily bulked up to a weight of 165 kilos with the addition of brine. It is no wonder that the manufacturers have so eagerly embraced all this tumbling and injecting.An internal brochure for the industry captures this enthusiasm, explaining that the process ‘transforms worthless cuts of meat with low value into standardised portions with a high added value’. In promoting this approach, the industry uses overblown language that extols the improvements brought about by the process. So processed meats are ‘easier to slice’ and feel ‘succulent but firm’. Each mouthful is ‘slightly resistant but juicy’. Other products are praised for their ‘cohesiveness’, as if that were a quality that the public actually look for in a piece of meat. ‘Mmmm, I really like this chicken breast, it’s so cohesive,’ they imagine us saying as we tuck into our dinner. That just shows how far the manufacturers have departed from reality. But it is all a huge con. Whatever language the manufacturers use, the public are getting neither value nor taste. This is not the way meat should be eaten. The ham we find in our petrol station sandwiches has the consistency of a limp handshake and all the flavour of an old tyre precisely because it has been through such a destructively intensive process, pumped up with water and held together by chemical gel. Those who suffer the most are those who eat in fast food restaurants and big institutions such as schools, hospitals and the British Army, where the needs of mass catering and limited budgets leave the managers vulnerable to the bulk merchants. Yet our reliance on ‘restructured’ and ‘reformed’ meats and chemical ‘emulsions’ is a false economy.This is not real, natural meat, but an industrialised meat-like substance. Eating cheap meat like this is a mug’s game — we may think we are getting a bargain, but we are paying through the nose for water and chemicals that can’t positively do us any good. | Investigation revealed some chicken breasts on sale are 20 per cent water .
Sold in the aisles of major retailers such as Aldi, Asda and Iceland .
It is not illegal to add water and additives to chicken . |
782 | 0243aa2938f84145fee92ebe4f05a8b607ca46f2 | By . Sean Poulter . Tesco is launching its own diet service with guidance on how to achieve weight loss goals and a new range of calorie controlled meals. The scheme will put the supermarket head to head with the likes of Weight Watchers and Slimming World, which dominate the weight loss market and have even been accepted into the NHS. Shoppers can put their height and weight into Tesco’s Health and Wellbeing website and will then be offered guidance, fitness advice and a personally tailored eating plan. Slimming: Tesco has launched a range of low-calorie products that combine to create slimming meal plans . Central to the regime is the launch of a range of calorie controlled products under a new brand called ‘my fit lifestyle’. The products fit under one of five colour coded headings ranging from 100 to 500 calories, which can be combined to create a daily menu. The range, which is launching initially in London, builds on a new and emerging trend in the US for personalised eating plans and puts together menu suggestions that will add up to less than 2,000 calories a day. Breakfast might be a ‘Greek style yoghurt with granola, pear, apple, berries’ plus a ‘roasted snack mix’ and a ‘grape, blueberry and pomegranate fruit pot’. Together these add up 398 calories. Lunch could be a ‘superfood salad with pineapple, kiwi and blueberry seed boost’ paired with a pack of ‘smoked paprika and cream cheese popcorn’, which adds up to 608 calories. Dinner could be what it calls a ‘Mediterranean graze box’, which includes baked falafels, super food salad, chilli spiced broccoli and edamame beans with yogurt dip, plus as roasted snack mix – at 594 calories. Range: The line, called 'my fit lifestyle', features granola for breakfast and quinoa (pictured) for dinner . Colour code: Customers can organise their meal plans on the website using colour codes . There is also room for a snack of a ‘quinoa, Edamame & Black Rice Salad Shot’, which comes in at 382 calories. Together this meal plan would come in at 1,982 calories. The chain will create my fit lifestyle zones both in its stores and on the firm’s Tesco.com website, to help customers put together their personal plans. They will be also able to count their calories on Tesco’s Health and Wellbeing website and app. To mark the launch of the new range, . Tesco is offering a Ride ‘n’ Dine restaurant-on-wheels pre-booked taxi . service in London, which will run for five days and deliver products . from the new range to home or work. Trend: The line, which customers can have delivered to their home or work, builds on a trend in the US for personalised meal plans . Tesco is keen to change its images away from a soulless retail juggernaut to a company that is a friend to customers and can offer solutions to real life problems. Jill Easterbrook, the chain’s chief customer officer, said: ‘We know that our customers are looking for us to help them lead healthier lives. 'They’ve told us that the pressures of the day make sticking to a healthy eating regime can be really difficult. ‘As a working mum of three I know just how busy life can get. That’s why we’re launching my fit lifestyle, so you can mix and match freshly prepared meals to suit your own personal plan. ‘Taken together with our wider programme to help improve health and wellbeing, including our recent decision to withdraw confectionery from all checkouts, and the billions of calories we have removed from our soft drinks, sandwiches and ready meal ranges, my fit lifestyle is another sign of our commitment to help shoppers live more healthily. ‘By combining fresh, healthy, delicious meals with a personal eating plan, we can support our customers and help them achieve to their health and well-being goals.’ Karen Tonks, in-house nutritionist at Tesco, said: ‘Each of the meals provide two of your five a day, so whether you are aiming for short term weight loss goals or a long term lifestyle change, the my fit lifestyle range, Tesco health and wellbeing website and app are there to guide and support customers. ‘It’s flexible too, so you can follow a complete meal plan or just balance out an indulgent weekend. The range has enough variety to deliver all the nutrients you need for a healthy lifestyle.’ As part of the initiative, Tesco will offer customers free tours with nutritionists in 19 of its larger Extra stores. | Supermarket has devised calorie-controlled range called 'my fit lifestyle'
Initial launch is in London, builds on US trend of personalised meal plans .
Colour-coded products fit together to create daily menu under 2,000 calories .
Breakfast is granola, lunch could be superfood salad, falafels for dinner .
Customers can have the meals delivered direct to home or work . |
179,870 | 74e1b0c6840f80ccc00331cd9e378aabdbedb4d6 | By . James Nye . PUBLISHED: . 15:16 EST, 1 September 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 09:31 EST, 2 September 2012 . In a touching twist of fate, two veterans of the Korean War, have been reunited by chance in a medical home 61-years after serving together - and one of them can't seem to let go of his duties. Augie Angerame who served as a medic and Frank Dibela both suffer from advanced dementia but staff became alerted to the behaviour of Angerame when DiBela was admitted, as he would go to his room and gently pat him on the back - almost as if to check he was OK. Even though the two octogenarians are unable to communicate with the outside world, staff at Northport Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Long Island recognised that they seemed to share a special bond and told their children - who discovered that they used to serve together with the 1st Cavalry in Korea in the 1950s. Scroll Down for Video . Augie Angerame (left) and Frank DiBella now share the same room at Northport Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Long Island after staff witnessed Angerame's concern and care for DiBella . 'He would walk around the ward checking up on guys just like a medic would,' said John Angerame, Augie's son. Describing how he would check on DiBella in particular and how DiBella seemed to react positively to this Angerame began to look into what made Dibella special. Augie Angerame's (left) family began to investigate why he had a special affection for DiBella (right) and discovered they served together 61-years-ago in Korea . 'I was looking for something. I had this feeling,' said Angerame. He discovered old war photographs on DiBella's bulletin board and began to notice the same buildings and same backgrounds as his father's old war pictures. 'And I stepped outside for a few minutes and on the door it said Frank DiBella,' said Angerame. 'And then it just flashed.' Augie Angerame's (left) and Frank DiBella were in the 68th Anti-aircraft Battalion and served with the 1st Cavalry in the Korean War in 1950 . Northport Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Long Island - where the two veterans were reunited after 61-years . Before his illness took hold his father had often spoken of a Frank DiBella in his unit who was highly regarded by the soldiers and medics who served on the front lines. 'He said Frank had a penchant for getting steaks and food that they normally don't eat,' said Angerame. Angerame and DiBella originally served at Fort Bliss in Texas and trained for the 68th Anti-aircraft Battalion which was created for the World War II. Augie Angerame was injured during the Battle of the Bowling Alley of August 12-25th 1950. 'He got hit in both knees,' said Angerame. 'He was the medic, so he just treated himself and went on helping the wounded because he didn’t want to leave the field. That’s why he never reported it and never got the Purple Heart.' The Korean War of 1950 - 1953 is described as the 'Forgotten War' and was waged by the United Nations led by the United States against North Korea . Frank DiBella entered the care earlier this year and it was initially a mystery to his daughter Mary Rose Monroe who his frequent visitor was. 'And I was like, 'What's this man doing?' recalled Frank's daughter, Mary Rose Monroe. 'He'd rub his back and then he'd walk away.' However, once staff realised they were old war buddies they moved them into the same room. 'Sixty years later," John said, 'Still checking on his guys.' 'They reach for each other,' said Mary Rose. | Reunited by chance 61-years after serving together in the Korean War . |
249,810 | cf4fff7aefbe9c725f06e9704de977179cec80f8 | By . Matt Blake . PUBLISHED: . 11:06 EST, 25 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 12:43 EST, 25 November 2013 . Puffing casually on a cigarette, a farmhand dangles a white fox by its tail as he clubs it to death with a stick. The method is simple yet brutal - and just one of a variety of ways China's controversial Fox Farms slaughter the animals in the name of fashion. Others include breaking their necks under a boot or stomping on their heads. Activists say they are the lucky ones. The more docile foxes who don't struggle are simply strung up and skinned alive to save their slaughterers time and energy. Those who live nearby say the stench of death hangs in the air while chilling howls of fear and pain can be heard rising from the compound night and day. In the name of fashion: Puffing casually on a cigarette, a farmhand dangles a white fox by its tail as he clubs it to death with a stick . When the fur is finally peeled off over the animals’ heads, their naked, bloody bodies are thrown onto a pile of those who have gone before them. Yet even with their pelt removed, some are still alive, gasping for air and blinking slowly for as long as ten minutes as they wait for death, say activists. Their furs are then shipped off to be worn as hats or coats by fashionistas across the world. Some of the pictures to have emerged from these farms are too graphic to show on this website. Animal-rights activists are demanding action to stop this wholesale slaughter of thousands of foxes for the global fashion industry every year. Waiting to die: The foxes are held in tiny cages awaiting their turn to die as others are slaughtered before their eyes . But owners of the controversial Fox Farms say that their margins are so slim that they cannot afford to give the foxes humane deaths as campaigners demand. Instead the animals are kept in tiny cages until autumn when they are dragged out through the mud and beaten with clubs or sticks in time for winter fashion collections. Activists say they even spotted some of the animals being kicked or stamped on to kill them. And all of the killings happen before the eyes of animals awaiting their turn, frantically trying to escape. Hungry market: The pelts are left to dry on planks of wood at the edge of the compound. They are then shipped off to be worn as hats or coats by fashionistas across the world . Only a few are spared to breed next year's crop. Lanhu farm, near Xi'an city, Jilin Province, is one of many such slaughterhouses in the rural heartland of northeast China. The activists have been backed by locals who don't work on the farm complaining that the screams and cries as the beasts killed are particularly distressing for children. The animals kept on the farm include the blue fox, the common red fox and the raccoon. Farm manager On Kung said that it cost about £30 to provide the food to raise one of the animals for nine months until it is fully grown and ready for slaughter. And they were only paid around about £60 when they sold it to the profit margin was very low. He said most farms had between 200 and 300 animals and the money they earned had to keep them running all year hence the need to keep costs low. | These horrific pictures were taken at Lanhu Farm, in Jilin Province, China .
It is among many such farms in the region which breed foxes for their fur .
Farmer says his margins are so slim that he can't afford humane slaughter .
Instead some are even skinned alive to save farmhands time and effort . |
122,348 | 2a25995da240eaa2802ee2dd4f5757b2886fce19 | Security is to be stepped up around the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge during an official visit to New York amid widespread demonstrations over the death of an unarmed black man at the hands of local police. Thousands of protesters have flooded the city's streets after it was revealed officers who killed father of six Eric Garner would not face criminal charges. The disruption comes ahead of the Royal couple's three-day tour of the US, during which Prince William will be hosted by President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle, at the White House. Scroll down for video . The Duke of Cambridge will be hosted by President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle, at the White House next week . Tonight it was claimed the couple, who are expecting their second child, will be given extra security by the New York Police Department in light of recent turmoil. While an NYPD spokesman declined to comment, they confirmed the Duke and Duchess 'will be getting security.' Sources close to the couple, who will be joined with their own team of Scotland Yard bodyguards, however said they will be subject to extra precautions. ‘There is no suggestion of a direct threat to the Duke and Duchess whatsoever but the way these demonstrations are spreading is being taken into account when planning their movement,’ said one. William and Kate are due to arrive in New York on Sunday afternoon where they will be staying – like William’s late mother before him – at the Carlyle Hotel, where a suite costs £9,000. The couple will undertake a whirlwind trip, packing seven public engagements in two days. On their first night, the Duke and Duchess attend a private dinner held on behalf of American Friends of the Royal Foundation in New York. The foundation was set up by Princes William and Harry in 2009 and was heavily involved in the organisation of the Invictus Games. The couple, who will be joined by their Scotland Yard security team, will be subject to extra NYPD measures amid widespread disruption in the city . The couple's security team will take extra precautions throughout the visit as tensions continue to flare over the death of an unarmed black man at the hand of a New York police man . Clashes continue in the city following the decision that officers who shot Mr Garner will not face charges . Eric Garner died after being restrained by police . Tensions continue to flare in New York City following a Grand Jury decision not to bring charges against a police officer involved in the death of Eric Garner, an unarmed father of six who died after being put in a chokehold by NYPD police officers. Mr Garner, 43, was stopped in the street on Staten Island in July on the suspicion of selling untaxed cigarettes. After an altercation with one of the police officers, the asthma-sufferer was placed in a chokehold on the ground. Struggling for breath, he can be heard in a video of the incident telling officers: 'I can't breathe'. The man later became unresponsive. A coroner ruled his death was the result of pressure on his chest while being restrained. Widespread pressure on the justice system to indite the police officers involved in his death came to a head this week when it was revealed they would not face prosecution. Thousands of protesters have clashed with authorities in New York City, with one crowd blocking off the Brooklyn Bridge. President Obama welcomed the city's announcement to increase police presence in protest-stricken areas, adding that the country has a sense of 'deep unfairness' over the case. During his visit, the Prince will be hosted by President Barack Obama in Washington DC while Kate remains in New York. Tonight a White House spokesman said it welcomed the Prince's devotion to the issue, describing it as 'both a national security threat and a devastating environmental problem.' His visit comes almost thirty years after Prince Charles and Diana were hosted by then President Ronald Regan and his wife, Nancy, in 1985. In New York, Duchess will carry out two solo engagements accompanied by city's First Lady, Chirlane McCray. The two women will visit a local child development centre and a lunch, hosted by the British Consul General, to celebrate the achievements of a successful British community in New York from the culture, arts, hospitality and business sectors. As Patron of the University of St Andrews 600th Anniversary Campaign, the prince, accompanied by his wife, who met while students at the college, will also attend a Gala Dinner attended by stars including actor Tom Hanks. Time has also been set aside for a visit to the National September 11 Memorial and Museum and even an NBA Basketball game, where many are hoping they will be introduced to fans Beyonce and Jay Z. A Kensington Palace spokesman said neither royal had been to New York before and were hugely looking forward to the visit. 'The couple really are very much looking forward to all the special moments of the visit. 'They've been an integral part in planning it,' a spokesman said. Princess Diana and Prince Charles visited then-president Ronald Reagan and his wife Nancy at the White House in 1985 . Princess Diana famously danced with John Travolta in Cross Hall during a 1985 visit to the White House . Prince Charles and Camilla stand with then-president George W. Bush and his wife Laura upon their arrival for dinner at the White House in 2005 . By royal invitation: President Obama, and his wife Michelle spent two days in the UK in 2011 on a State Visit at the invitation of Queen Elizabeth II . Last time around: The Duke and Duchess last visited the United States in 2011, when they, among other things, attended the BAFTA Brits To Watch Event in Los Angeles . The couple's one-year-old son, Prince George, will not be joining them on the official trip to the US . | The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will visit New York next week .
Security surrounding Royal couple to be heightened amid disruption .
Thousands of protesters flooded streets following death of Eric Garner .
Police officers who killed 43-year-old black man dead will not face charges .
Prince William will also visit the White House as part of US tour .
In 2011 President Barack Obama and his wife visited Buckingham Palace . |
98,750 | 0b2b8239f5d934c49caae48a34403e3fe071cd1f | Read his views on 'Big Cheese' Matt Prior . I did NOT text South Africans ways to get Strauss out . Flower's regime led to cliques (and Trott telling Prior and Swann to 'f*** off') Flower was a 'f****** horrendous' 'Mood Hoover' Kevin Pietersen has offered one-on-one coaching to a young cricketing prospect after receiving a heart-warming letter at his book signing on Tuesday evening. Pietersen posted the letter on his Instagram account on Wednesday, where the young boy named Rohan said he had been chosen for Cheshire Under 11s and couldn't afford £10,000 to be coached by the former England star. He offered £1,000, but Pietersen insisted he was delighted to do the session for free. The money, it must be said, would normally go to charity. Read the letter below: . Kevin Pietersen posed the letter, sent by young cricket hopeful Rohan, on Instagram . He said: 'I received this letter at my signing session last night. I have never profited from a one on one. Only ever done them for charity but this letter touched me. I would be delighted to coach you at The Oval and I will organise all your transport so that it doesn't cost you a penny, Rohan!' The 34-year-old's book, KP: My Autobiography, was released on Monday and in it he lacerated the likes of Andy Flower, Matt Prior and Graeme Swann. Pietersen said he would give the coaching session for free, as he says he always does . Pietersen stands with former England coach Andy Flower during his international days . Pietersen admitted the letter, left for him at his book signing on Tuesday, struck a chord with him . KP: The Autobiography is published by Sphere, priced £20 plus p&p. | Kevin Pietersen received the letter from a young boy at his book signing .
The boy, Rohan, was selected for Cheshire Under 11s, and wanted coaching with the former England star .
Pietersen was happy to offer coaching free of charge to the young hopeful .
The 34-year-old's book, 'KP: My Autobiography' was released on Monday . |
253,024 | d37ade27531de6286bfd1eae54a0d748972accc5 | By . Riath Al-Samarrai for MailOnline . Follow @@riathalsam . Southampton manager Ronald Koeman has admitted he has no immediate plans to hold contract talks with Swansea and Crystal Palace target Jack Cork. The midfielder scored Southampton's opener in their 2-0 Capital One Cup win over Millwall on Tuesday, but could leave the club for nothing next summer when his contract expires. Koeman suggested the 25-year-old wanted to stay at the club, which he joined in 2011, but when asked if talks were planned, he said: 'At this moment, no.' Transfer: Ronald Koeman wants Jack Cork to stay at Southampton despite interest from elsewhere . The Dutchman added: 'He is a player of Southampton, a player for the midfield position. There were a lot of rumours but Jack is doing very good with ambition to stay at Southampton. 'OK, if there is any possibility for him and he is not happy then he knows the door is open to my office, he can come to talk. Then we will see what the best is for everyone in this situation.' Palace have shown interest in Cork this summer, though it remains to be seen if new manager Neil Warnock shares those plans. Swansea, meanwhile, have followed the midfielder for more than a year and are considering a move. But the Saints boss hopes to bring in two new players this week. Deadline: The Dutch manager said he hopes to bring in players in two positions before the transfer deadline . While Southampton's' outgoing players have dominated the headlines this summer, Koeman has already added seven new faces including Fraser Forster, Shane Long, Graziano Pelle and Dusan Tadic. The Dutchman has been linked with a move for Atletico Madrid's Belgian defender Toby Alderweireld but refused to confirm his interest in the 25-year-old. However, Koeman is confident of landing two targets ahead of Monday's transfer deadline. 'I don't talk about names of players,' he said. 'In two positions we are trying to bring in new players and we hope to bring (them) in this week. 'The club is doing everything for that and I hope we will finish with that this week.' Contract: Both Swansea and Crystal Palace are interested in Cork, but Saints haven't offered him a new deal . It’s not too late to play MailOnline Fantasy Football… There’s £1,000 to be won EVERY WEEK by the highest scoring manager . | Ronald Koeman says Jack Cork will stay at Southampton .
Dutchman did admit that Cork had not been offered a new deal though .
Swansea and Crystal Palace rumoured to be interested in Cork .
Koeman said the club is still trying to bring in more players . |
67,554 | bfac4071a8c450a20e541296e78ff48cc9f18fd3 | By . Annabel Fenwick Elliott . The worst job in America is that of a lumberjack, according to a new ranking of the American job market. And the best is a mathematician, with an average salary of over $100,000, says CareerCast, which takes into account a combination of factors including income, environment, growth opportunity and stress. Following close behind lumberjacks, who earn a pitiful $24,000 a year, the most . awful occupation of 2014 is that of a newspaper reporter, and then an . active military personnel, while being a university professor and then a . statistician were found to be the next best jobs. Happy camper: Mathematicians, university professors and dental hygienists ranked amongst the best jobs of 2014, according to CareerCast, in terms of salary and overall job satisfaction (stock image) In contrast, being a university professor or a statistician were found to be among the best jobs. Being a whiz with numbers in today's job market provides a wide range of well-paid opportunities, according to mathematician Jessika Sobanski. 'Whether it’s new product sales, a start-up business model or an established TV station, for example, everything is based on numbers,' she says to CareerCast. Tenured university professors, though a . difficult role to score, enjoy highly rewarding careers, while software . engineers and computer systems analysts thrive in an ever-expanding . market where they are in high demand. Woeful job: Just behind lumberjacks, newspaper reporters and broadcasters were ranked as having some of the worst jobs in 2014, thanks mainly to the changing face of the media . Somewhat interestingly, dental hygienists come in at number six on the best jobs list, gifted with competitive salaries averaging $70,210 and flexible working hours, despite dentists historically having the second highest (after doctors) suicide rate of any profession in the U.S. Other healthcare roles in the top ten best jobs list include ear doctors, occupational therapists and speech pathologists. As for the . worst jobs in the U.S., a number of unsurprising roles cropped up, . including taxi drivers at number four, garbage collectors at number . eight and prison guards at number ten. Newspaper . reporters took the second spot, followed by broadcasters at number five; . high-stress, low-paid positions which are fast disappearing as print . publications fall into a black hole. Open wide: Dental hygienists were ranked as having the sixth best job this year in terms of wages and flexible hours, despite dentists actually having the second highest suicide rate of any profession in the U.S. New to the . list this year as the sixth worst job title was 'head cook' - not to . be confused with the esteemed role of a chef (celebrity or otherwise) - but . more hourly workers in chains or high school cafeterias. And . noble firefighters came in at number nine, for the high danger they . find themselves in every day, in return for relatively meager wages. Considering . we spend most of our waking lives at work, it's either an affirming or . somewhat depressing set of findings, depending of course, on where we happen to . show up to the office every day. TOP TEN BEST JOBS . TOP TEN WORST JOBS . 1. Mathematician ($101,360) 1. Lumberjack ($24,340) 2. University Professor ($68,970) 3. Statistician ($75,560) 3. Enlisted Military Personnel ($28,840) 4. Actuary ($93,680) 4. Taxi Driver ($22,820) 5. Audiologist ($69,720) 5. Broadcaster ($55,380) 6. Dental Hygienist ($70,210) 6. Head Cook ($42,480) 7. Software Engineer ($93,350) 7. Flight Attendant ($37,240) 8. Computer Systems Analyst ($79,680) 8. Garbage Collector ($22,970) 9. Occupational Therapist $75,400 . 9. Firefighter ($42,250) 10. Speech Pathologist $69,870 . 10. Corrections Officer ($38,970) | A new ranking of the American job market compares income, environment, growth opportunity and stress factors .
University professors and dental hygienists also amongst the best ranked careers, with news reporters and taxi drivers rated worst . |
264,503 | e295cc68dfc855068d19fa0a604e9db3659c43e1 | A Darwin man knew it was no laughing matter when he spotted a kookaburra wedged into a parked car's numberplate. Russell Crow, 50, found the beautiful blue-winged kookaburra jammed into the vehicle bumper at Humpty Doo United servo, 40 km south of Darwin. After noticing the bird was still alive, Mr Crow managed to move the animal from harm's way with some unlikely utensils, reports NT News. The blue-winged kookaburra was found wedged into the front of a parked car's bumper at Humpty Doo United servo . Mr Crow assumed thought the animal was long dead when he first noticed it. 'Even when I walked over to it, I could see it had an eye open but I still thought it was dead — it was pretty still,' he told NT News. After photographing the peculiar scene, the kookaburra moved its head. But when Mr Crow attempted to freeit with his hands, the bird attacked him. 'I was trying to pull it out with my hands, but he kept trying to bite me,' he said. Kookaburras have extremely strong beaks which they use to soften their food. In turn, they can inflict a painful bite. Mr Crow resolved to use a mop and bucket to free the captive bird, which was miraculously unharmed. The blue winged kookaburra is susceptible to being hit by cars on country roads due to being a slow flyer . 'I used the mop to pry him out, and it worked. I was expecting him to have a broken wing or to be injured in some way, but as soon as he hit the ground he flew off and into a gum tree.' Mr Crow left a note on the car advising them to check their grille after striking an animal on the road. The blue winged kookaburra is native to northern Australia and southern New Guinea. Due to being slow flyers, they are susceptible to being hit by cars on country roads. The assistant curator for Territory Wildlife Park Damien Stanioch said the car was travelling between 60-70km/h when it hit the bird. The bird was found at Humpty Doo United servo, 40 km south of Darwin in the Northern Territory . | Russell Crow, 50, found the blue-winged kookaburra wedged into a car .
The bird is susceptible to being hit by cars due to being a slow flyer .
Mr Crow used a mop and bucket to release the bird from the vehicle .
Territory Wildlife Park estimate the car was going between 60-70km/h . |
155,354 | 54ce0f4123e4dae30b35a5ac4de02585e9db4e1a | (CNN) -- The United States will talk to North Korea, but only if the country gets serious about negotiating the end of its nuclear weapons program, Secretary of State John Kerry said Friday during a visit to South Korea, a key U.S. ally. "North Korea will not be accepted as a nuclear power," Kerry said after arriving in Seoul. His trip to South Korea -- part of an Asian swing that also includes North Korean ally China -- came a day after a Pentagon intelligence assessment surfaced suggesting North Korea may have developed the ability to fire a nuclear-tipped missile at its foes. Disclosed first by a congressman at a hearing Thursday and then confirmed to CNN by the Defense Department, the Defense Intelligence Agency assessment is the clearest acknowledgment yet by the United States about potential advances in North Korea's nuclear program. Despite weeks of bellicose rhetoric from Pyongyang threatening nuclear attacks on the United States, South Korea and their allies, U.S. officials have characterized the North's saber rattling as largely bluster. U.S. officials think North Korea could test-launch a mobile ballistic missile at any time in what would be seen by the international community as a highly provocative move. But a senior administration official said there's no indication that any such missiles are armed with nuclear material. Still, the defense agency said it has "moderate confidence" that North Korea could fit a nuclear weapon on a ballistic missile and fire it. But agency analysts think such a missile's reliability would be low -- an apparent reference to its accuracy. White House spokesman Jay Carney told reporters Friday that the North Korean government "has not demonstrated the capability to deploy a nuclear-armed missile." And Kerry said Friday that it would be inaccurate to suggest that North Korea, which has conducted three underground nuclear weapons tests since 2006, can launch a nuclear-armed missile, despite the DIA assessment. "But obviously they have conducted a nuclear test, so there's some kind of device, but that is very different from miniaturization and delivery and from tested delivery and other things," he said. He said any launch by North Korea would be a "huge mistake." "If Kim Jong Un decides to launch a missile, whether it's across the Sea of Japan or in some other direction, he will be choosing willfully to ignore the entire international community, his own obligations that he has accepted, and it will be a provocative and unwanted act that will raise people's temperature with respect to this issue," Kerry said. South Korean Foreign Minister Yun Byung-se, speaking with Kerry at a Friday news conference, urged North Korea to open talks. "We urge North Korea to cease its reckless behavior and to stop issuing threats," he said. "Instead, we urge North Korea to respond to our call for building trust on the Korean Peninsula through dialogue, and now it is time for North Korea to make that choice." A joint statement issued by South Korea and the United States before Kerry's departure emphasized Washington's commitment to defending Seoul "in the wake of recent unacceptable provocations" by the North. "The United States stands vigilantly by the Republic of Korea's side, and is prepared for and capable of defending and protecting itself and its allies," the statement read. Kerry now plans to visit China and tell leaders there that Pyongyang, as one senior administration official said, is "putting China's own interests at risk." Washington wants Beijing to "stop the money trail into North Korea" and to carry a strong message to the North that getting rid of nuclear weapons on the Korean Peninsula is China's goal, said the official and a senior State Department official. Defense Intelligence Agency report . The surprising Defense Intelligence Agency assessment of North Korea's potential nuclear capabilities emerged during Thursday's House Armed Services Committee hearing. At the hearing, Rep. Doug Lamborn, R-Colorado, read from a declassified version of the document in which the DIA expresses "moderate confidence the North currently has nuclear weapons capable of delivery by ballistic missiles, however, the reliability will be low." As Kerry did Friday, top officials in Washington tried Thursday to downplay concerns about the report. Pentagon spokesman George Little said that "it would be inaccurate to suggest that the North Korean regime has fully tested, developed or demonstrated the kinds of nuclear capabilities referenced" in the DIA study. That stance was echoed by James R. Clapper, director of U.S. national intelligence, who said: "North Korea has not yet demonstrated the full range of capabilities necessary for a nuclear-armed missile." U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told CNN's Wolf Blitzer that the agency has no independent information to verify the DIA's assessment. The DIA has been wrong in the past, producing an assessment in 2002 that formed the basis for arguments that Iraq had nuclear weapons -- a view later found to be incorrect . Confusion over intel's release . The report was "mistakenly" marked as declassified, according to an administration and a defense source. A House Armed Services Committee aide said staffers checked with the DIA to confirm that the passage was not classified before Lamborn read it. Lamborn told CNN's "AC360" that he acted properly in disclosing it during the hearing. "Given the seriousness of the threat, this is something that I think people do need to know about," he said. On Friday, Rep. Buck McKeon, R-California, also backed disclosure of the assessment. "I have to believe they know what they're doing," said McKeon, chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. "I think it's good for the American people to understand how tenuous this situation is and how important it is for us to have a strong defense." North Korean missile adjustments . On Thursday, North Korea briefly raised a missile into an upright firing position, stoking concerns that a launch was imminent, a U.S. official told CNN. Later, another U.S. official said it had been tucked back into its launcher. That could signify that a much-feared launch by the North is less imminent. It could also mean the government was testing the equipment. The first U.S. official cautioned that raising the untested Musudan missile, which South Korea says has a range of up to 2,175 miles (3,500 kilometers), could have been just a trial run or an effort to "mess" with the United States and its allies. North Korea's missile capabilities . The believed range means the Musudan could reach Guam, a Western Pacific territory that is home to U.S. naval and air bases, and where the United States recently said it was placing missile defense systems. The United States and South Korean militaries have been monitoring the movements of mobile ballistic missiles on the east coast of North Korea. Japan has deployed defense systems. Clapper, the national intelligence director, said Thursday at a House Intelligence Committee hearing that he didn't think Kim had "much of an endgame" other than to get recognition from the world as a nuclear power, which "entitles him to negotiation, accommodation and, presumably, aid." He reiterated that the nation's "nuclear weapons and missile programs pose a serious threat to the United States and to the security environment in East Asia." Opinion: Why North Korea worries Dick Cheney . More threats . North Korea denied responsibility in a wave of cyberattacks on tens of thousands of computers at South Korean banks and broadcasters last month, the North's state news agency, KCNA, reported Friday. South Korea this week accused the North of carrying out the March 20 attacks. An official South Korean investigation found that many of the malignant codes employed in the attacks were similar to ones used previously by the North, said Lee Seung-won, an official at the South Korean science ministry. A spokesman for the General Staff of the Korean People's Army said the allegations are "groundless" and "a deliberate provocation to push the situation on the Korean Peninsula to an extreme phase," according to KCNA. Friday, North Korea also issued a scathing warning to Japan, saying via KCNA that Tokyo should "stop recklessly working for staging a comeback on Korea, depending on its American master." Japanese foreign minister spokesman Masaru Sato said such remarks only hurt North Korea. "Japan would not be pushed around by rhetoric of North Korea," he said. Late Friday, Japan's Transport Ministry issued a notice requiring Japanese airplanes to report to the U.S. military if they fly near the U.S. military's Kadena base in Okinawa prefecture, the Kyodo News Agency said. The notice, made at the request of the U.S. military in Japan, is believed to be part of precautions taken against possible North Korean missile launches. It concerns the airspace within 30 kilometers (about 19 miles) of the base in southern Japan, where Patriot missiles are deployed. War of words escalates: Timeline of a crisis . North Korea began to sharpen its threats in February, after the United Nations reacted to the country's third nuclear test with tougher sanctions. Annual military exercises involving U.S. and South Korean troops have added to the tensions. At the Thursday House Intelligence Committee hearing, Clapper said the United States believed the primary objective of Kim's bellicose rhetoric was to "consolidate and affirm his power." Earlier in the crisis, the United States drew attention to shows of strength, such as practice missions by B-2 stealth bombers. Should I stay or should I go? Expats mull future there . Kerry said Friday that U.S. officials were working to calm the crisis, noting President Barack Obama had canceled some of the exercises. "I think we have lowered our rhetoric significantly," Kerry said. CNN's K.J. Kwon, Tim Schwarz, Kyung Lah, Deirdre Walsh, Judy Kwon, Joe Sterling, Kevin Bohn, Chris Lawrence, Elise Labott, Jill Dougherty, Adam Levine, Jim Kavanagh, and Pierre Meilhan contributed to this report. | NEW: U.S. says it "stands vigilantly by" South Korea .
NEW: North Korea denies responsibility for hacking South Korean computers in March .
U.S. will talk to North Korea, but Pyongyang has to talk giving up nukes, Kerry says .
Ballistic missiles may be able to carry nukes, a U.S. defense intelligence assessment says . |
274,660 | efc9591c77717681cdf9f58c2b7f119cf9dfedb3 | (EW.com) -- "You gotta pull it together man," Andy Samberg, the final guest on "Late Night with Jimmy Fallon," told his friend. "You're moving up a time slot, across the hall, bigger stage, this is all good stuff!" Fallon, who has proven again in his last week before taking over "The Tonight Show" just what a gracious, big-hearted guy he is, agreed that he was a mess. "I'm an Irish mush!" he said. And bless him for it. Jimmy Fallon gets emotional during last 'Late Night' show . Fallon navigated his final week with a sense of decency that was both unapologetic and generous. Three episodes were taped remembrances of the show's best digital shorts (like "Jersey Floor"), musical performances (an acoustic version of "Blurred Lines" that somehow managed to rinse clean the scuzz of the song), and comedy bits (I could watch Matthew Broderick trying to make a taco with mannequin hands every night of the week). Meanwhile he was a sweet and respectful guest for Jay Leno, for long an easy butt of late night comedians but whom Fallon never shamed or undercut throughout this long transition. I admit to feeling confused by Thursday's penultimate show, as Fallon returned to his more traditional format. His monologue was pitch perfect, bowing down to "The Tonight Show" host of 22 years. "The ratings have been so good I think we're going to have another week of saying goodbye to Jay Leno," he said. "It was Jay Leno's last show tonight. That's a bummer. I like that guy." He paused to point out the obvious to the always excellent Steve Higgins. "I mean, in a way it's good for me..." he said. Later, Colin Farrell came on and seemed uncomfortable pitching his underwhelming "Winter's Tale." Chris Pratt seemed better suited to the sense of growing nostalgia in the studio. "Nice people deserve success," Pratt told Fallon in his congratulations before the lot donned ridiculous bubble suits and played elevator soccer. Jimmy Fallon writes Jay Leno a truly thoughtful thank-you note . That's where so much of the pleasure in watching Fallon is found. He's game and a goof, completely lacking in cynicism and guile. When he's playing the guitar next to Bruce Springsteen or hashtagging with Justin Timberlake he has the shiny glee of a kid let loose in a candy store. If this sounds like an unabashed enthusiastic fan note, maybe it's because I'm writing about a man with such unabashed enthusiasm. The only thing clearer than how much Fallon loves what he gets to do for a living is how much he leans on and respects the people he gets to do it with. Towards the end of the show, Higgins assured Fallon he was going to be great on "The Tonight Show" starring Jimmy Fallon. "You're going to be so good because you're nice, you're sweet, you're super hilarious and you are the best person on earth," his friend said. "You are perfect for this job." In "Late Night's" final moments, after Fallon's low-key and tender performance of "The Weight" with the Muppets band, its host walked alone down the deserted hall of 6A. On the other side of the exit waited Fallon's exuberant cast and crew. He jumped into their celebratory scrum as the door closed behind him. It was at once the perfect ending and an auspicious beginning. There are so many great clips from "Late Night" but I also picked this weird one of Questlove throwing up because of Fallon's stunned and delighted reaction. Fittingly, it was one of the host's favorite memories from 969 shows. See the original story on EW.com. CLICK HERE to Try 2 RISK FREE issues of Entertainment Weekly . © 2011 Entertainment Weekly and Time Inc. All rights reserved. | Jimmy Fallon hosted his final "Late Night" on February 7 .
Andy Samberg was his final guest .
The Muppets also helped him transition .
Fallon will begin hosting "The Tonight Show" on February 17 . |
263,880 | e1c276d6c2b5ff731df74348a785a7827a4db08e | By . Victoria Woollaston . PUBLISHED: . 11:58 EST, 5 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 13:34 EST, 5 December 2013 . With more of us sharing almost every aspect of our lives online it raises the serious question about what happens to all of this data when we die. Facebook posts and tweets may seem mundane or trivial but, along with emails, online photos, contacts and even the login details for online banking, they create what’s called a ‘digital legacy.’ The latest company to let users create a will for these online accounts is Perpetu and it differs from most other services because it lets its members hand-pick exactly which information from which sites go to which people. Hong Kong startup Perpetu lets users select which online information they want to share with which relatives after they die. They are then given a unique code that can be passed to family members or written in a will. When they die, relatives let Perpetu know and the site releases the relevant information . It also generates a unique code for each member that can be written into paper wills, for example, or shared with loved ones meaning the user don’t have to give out passwords. Perpetu members can add Facebook and Twitter accounts for free, or pay $15 (£9) a year, or a one-time payment of $100 (£61), to connect LinkedIn, Gmail, Dropbox, Flickr and Github accounts. Current legislation means that if a person doesn’t leave information about online accounts in a will, family members must apply for a court order to get access to them. Certain sites, including Facebook, can memorialise profiles if a family member asks them to, but others, such . as Gmail, will delete inactive accounts after a set period of time. With Perpetu, users can not only select . which people are sent which information from different sites, it also . lets users select what to delete. This can prevent family members . reading personal information that the user may not want them to see, for . example. With Perpetu, users can not only select which people are sent which information from which sites, it also lets users select what to delete. Members can also write final wall posts for Facebook and Twitter, or set auto-replies for emails . Members can also write final wall . posts for Facebook and Twitter, or set auto-replies for emails. Future . emails can additionally be set up to be forwarded to a certain address . after someone dies. To make sure people are dead before . releasing the information, Perpetu will email and phone the member, to confirm. If the user doesn’t reply within a week, Perpetu will carry out their final online wishes. 'For companies like Yahoo, Facebook and Google, they are not putting enough effort into dealing with dead users’ accounts. It doesn’t get them any more data. There’s no incentive for them,' creator Ryanne Lai told TechCrunch. Users sign up to Perpetu either using an email address, or by connecting their Facebook or Twitter account. Facebook and Twitter are free, or users can pay $15 (£9) a year, or a one-time payment of $100 (£61), to connect LinkedIn, Gmail, Dropbox, Flickr and Github accounts. Perpetu members can then go through each connected service and select who gets what. For example, upon death a user could choose to have their Facebook posts and photos emailed to select people. The site also lets users select exactly which albums go to which people. Members can also write final wall posts for Facebook and Twitter, or set auto-replies for emails. Future emails can additionally be set up to be forwarded to a certain address after someone dies. Once the account is activated, each user is given a unique code that can be written in a physical will or shared with family and friends. Upon someone’s death, the family will let Perpetu know and give them this unique code. Perpetu then carries out that person’s final wishes. Family members don’t get given access to any of the individual accounts, or access to the Perpetu account. | Perpetu users choose which posts from which sites go to which people .
Users can connect their Facebook and Twitter accounts for free .
For $15 (£9) a year, or a one-time payment of $100 (£63), users can also add LinkedIn, Gmail, Dropbox, Flickr and GitHub accounts .
Rather than a password, each user is given a unique Perpetu code .
When relatives tell Perpetu a user has died, the information is released .
Yet, Perpetu will attempt to contact the user first to check it isn't a prank . |
55,218 | 9c6b4d7335a6ba7872f4e55cf69ade732a0b7445 | By . Amanda Williams . PUBLISHED: . 10:26 EST, 28 January 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:43 EST, 28 January 2013 . Schoolfriends Nathan Wilkins and Kyle Robson have always been close - but their latest escapade brought them closer than ever. Medics had to free the two friends who 'bonded' during class when they accidentally superglued their hands together in an arm-wrestling contest. Nathan, 13, and Kyle, 14, both of Hartlepool, were in a music lesson at High Tunstall College of Science when another student brought out a tube of pink glue. The substance was squirted onto Kyle's hand, who then challenged Nathan to an arm wrestle. But within seconds, the Year Nine pupils found themselves in a sticky situation. Nathan Wilkins, 13 (right), and Kyle Robinson, 14 (left), had to be separated by medics when they superglued their hands together during an arm-wrestling contest at High Tunstall College of Science in Hartlepool . Nathan and Kyle both of Hartlepool, were in a music lesson when another student brought out a tube of pink glue. The substance was squirted onto Kyle's hand, who then challenged Nathan to an arm wrestle . At first their teacher did not believe them but soon realised the pair could not be freed. School staff contacted the boys' parents at 10am, with Nathan's mother, Chris Coxon, 46, arranging for transport to take boys to the One Life Hartlepool out of hours health centre. Once there, staff and nurses giggled as they tried to un-stick the teenagers. Staff at the centre tried nail varnish initially, but when it did not work, a medical guide was consulted and they tried hot soapy water. After steeping their hands in the water for about half-an-hour, Nathan, 13, and Kyle, 14, both of Hartlepool, managed to pull their hands apart. The pair were back at school by lunchtime the same day. Ms Coxon, a carer and cleaner, said: . 'I couldn't believe it when the school rang to say they were glued . together and could I drop everything to go and get them. 'I . didn't believe what I was hearing at first. I thought surely not, but . then when I saw them they were completely stuck together! After trying to free the boys from each other with nail varnish remover, medical centre staff used the simple, old fashioned method of hot soapy water to do the trick . 'I couldn't get over it. I was saying to them, 'are you sure you're not lying?' but they weren't . They couldn't take their hands apart. 'Some girl had stuck some pink glue on one of their hands and then as lads do, messing about, they had an arm wrestle and the next thing you know they were stuck together. 'My dad drove me to the school to get them and take them to the One Life. I had to help them in the van and put the seat belt right across the pair of them because it was both of their right hands that were glued.' The mother-of-five said Nathan has always been accident prone after splitting his chin open, breaking his heel and then his arm in separate incidents over the years. She added: 'The staff had a right laugh at them and they had to read to find out what would take it off. 'Then they put their hands in scalding hot water with soap for a good 30 minutes before they were eventually freed.' Mark Tilling, headteacher of High Tunstall College of Science, said: 'Two Year 9 students had to be taken to the One Life Centre on Tuesday after their hands were glued together following a prank in school. 'Medical staff were able to free their hands and no injuries were sustained. The school dealt promptly with the incident and has taken appropriate action.' | A prank saw Nathan Wilkins, 13, and Kyle Robson, 14, stuck together .
Staff at their Hartlepool school initially thought the boys were joking .
But after they realised pair could not be freed, the friends were taken to a medical centre where they were freed using hot soapy water . |
255,081 | d62c00a3a2613bdf96744eb5529903f5a70f18f5 | (CNN) -- A member of Somalia's newly formed parliament was gunned down Saturday in front of his house, later succumbing to his injuries at a nearby hospital, according to government and U.N. reports. Unidentified armed men shot Mustafa Haji Maalim in Mogadishu, and he later died at a hospital, the U.N. special representative for Somalia said in statement condemning his killing. The attack comes amid a wave of violence in the east African nation in recent weeks that has left dozens dead. It has also been a time of significant transition, with Somalia adopting a provisional constitution, selecting members of parliament, appointing that legislative body's speaker and naming a new president. "These cowardly acts of targeted assassinations and indiscriminate bombings cannot deter the remarkable courage of the Somali people, whose tenacity and determination has overcome formidable obstacles and brought us to where we are now," said Augustine P. Mahiga, the special U.N. representative. Maalim was the father-in-law of former Somali President Sheikh Sharif Ahmed, according to the United Nations. Ahmed was in power from 2009 until he was recently succeeded by Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, a political newcomer who has worked for the United Nations and several international organizations. The Somalian government reported on its website that Maalim had been shot dead. Various witnesses told private Somali news outlets, including Shabelle Media Network and Garowe News, that at least two masked men shot Maalim in the southern district of Waberi in the Somali capital. The gunmen escaped before security forces arrived at the scene, according to the witnesses. Somalia's shaky transitional government, backed by African Union peacekeepers, has been battling Islamic guerrillas for years. The country has lacked an effective central government since 1991, with portions of the Horn of Africa nation left lawless. Just after sunset on Thursday, a suicide bombing in Mogadishu killed several people, the National Union of Somali Journalists said. The dead included two anchors for state-run Radio Mogadishu and the head of another official radio station, the Voice of Democracy, the two stations reported. | Parliamentarian Mustafa Haji Maalim dies after being shot, the government says .
He was the father-in-law of a man who, until recently, was Somalia's president .
Witnesses tell media that masked men shot Maalim, then fled before security forces arrived . |
138,767 | 3f75ea458e405ae0b2f956404adbf3d189eb085a | By . Amy Willis . PUBLISHED: . 11:02 EST, 20 February 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 13:08 EST, 20 February 2014 . Like a real life version of the Hollywood classic - Coming to America - a Ghanaian taxi driver in New York is leading a double life as a tribal chief in his native country. This amazing double life Isaac Osei began when he inherited a throne in Ghana after his brother died in 2006. Mr Osei and his wife Elizabeth own a taxi company in Manhattan, but travel back and forth to Ghana so he can take care of his responsibilities as chief. Scroll down for video . Taxi driver: Isaac Osei moved to America from Ghana in 1977 and started driving yellow cabs in 1982. New York: Every day the couple travel from their home in New Jersey to manage taxis, which are dispatched all over New York City. American empire: Mr and Mrs Osei have built a taxi fleet from scratch in America called Napasei Taxi Management Corporation. Responsibility: Isaac and his wife Elizabeth oversee their taxi company in Manhattan, but travel back and forth to Ghana so Isaac can take care of his responsibilities as chief. Double life: Mr Osei inherited the throne in Ghana after his brother died from unknown causes in 2006. As chief of the Akwamu people, Mr Osei oversees five towns in Ghana - settling family and property disputes and acting as a judge for his people. But back in America, Mr Osei leads a less glamorous lifestyle - one without palaces and crowds of people following him everywhere. Mr Osei said: 'I never thought I would become a chief, until my brother passed. After his death the family told me I had to succeed him. 'I prefer to be in Ghana, people come to me and treat me with respect. 'When I'm here in New York, it's a different thing. No one knows me' Mr Osei moved to America in 1977, and started driving yellow cabs in 1982. Mr Osei said: 'I worked for one year, and then I bought my own car, doing car service. One year after that I bought my own medallion. 'I've been doing this for many years. I've been able to take care of my children. I love what I do.' Leader: While in Ghana Mr Osei presides over five towns and acts as a judge for his people. Double life: Mr Osei said he preferred being in Ghana as people come to him and treat him with respect. Man of many talents: As chief of the Akwamu people, Mr Osei oversees five towns in Ghana - settling family and property disputes and acting as a judge. And just like the fictional Prince Akeem from the film, Mr Osei found the woman of his dreams, Elizabeth, who was also working a s a cab driver in New York City. Mrs Osei said: 'We first met at the restaurant he owned in Harlem. He asked me out but I told him I wasn't interested at first! 'Every time I saw his cab at the airport, we would talk and became friends. 'Eventually I gave in, and I feel very privileged to be married to him.' Together, Mr and Mrs Osei have built a taxi fleet, called Napasei Taxi Management Corporation. Every day the couple travel from their home in New Jersey to manage the number Taxis dispatched all over the city. Mr Osei said: 'It's a lot of work - that's why I prefer to be in Ghana - everyone makes life easier for me over there.' 'In Ghana, I don't do anything practically. When I get into my car they open the door for me, I have my own palace, I have everything. 'When I come here it's a different thing. Nobody knows me.' Pose: Back in Ghana Mr Osei and his wife even have their own palace - quite a difference to their apartment in New York. Perfect match: And just like the fictional Prince Akeem from the film, Mr Osei found the woman of his dreams, Elizabeth, who was also working as a cab driver in New York City. Ceremony: The couple take part in a ritual for his name being changed from Barima Gyansare V to Beyeeman Gyansare V. Piankhene of Akwarmu State . And Mr and Mrs Osei are aware of the power they have and use it to their advantage. Mrs Osei said: "I didn't want it from the beginning because I know it's going to complicate our lives. We love it anyway. 'It's a privilege -knowing you are helping a soul means the world.' But when the couple return to America, they both know who the real boss is. Mr Osei said: 'When we are in America my wife is the boss - she is the president of my company.' Mrs Osei added: 'Over here, I'm in control. My husband is a big chief in Ghana, a reputable man, but when we come to America it's a different world!' Leader: Back in America, Mr Osei leads a less glamorous lifestyle - one without palaces and crowds of people following him everywhere. Chief: The couple pictured at the Ghana Independence Celebration in 2011. Throne: Mr Osei is known as Chief Nana Gyensare V when he is performing his duties in his native state. Coming to America: Eddie Murphy stars as Akeem in the Hollywood classic. WARNING: CONTAINS SPOILERS . In the 1988 Hollywood classic Akeem Joffer (Eddie Murphy) is heir to the throne of a fictional African country called Zamunda. Akeem leads a sheltered life inside the palace where his shirts are pressed for him by his servants and he rarely has to lift a finger even to buy his own food. While this lifestyle suits Prince Akeem's parents - King Jaffe (James Earl Jones) and Queen Aeoleon (Madge Sinclair) - his pampered upbringing leaves him frustrated as he is unable to do anything for himself. While he already has misconceptions, the final straw comes when he is introduced to his bride-to-be (Vanessa Bell) in an arranged marriage. Prince Akeem hasn't even met his potential wife and concocts a plan to find his perfect bride in America instead. In particular, he aims to find a royal match who he knows will love him for his personality rather than his status as heir to the throne in Zamunda. However, this would be in defiance of his parents. Prince Akeem decides to go against his parents wishes and travels to Queens in New York in an attempt to find his perfect royal match. The prince and his servant Semmi rent an apartment in Jamaica - a run down area where they hope he can find a bride who loves him for his personality rather than his status. He finds his match in Lisa, the beautiful daughter of a fast-food restaurant owner and the prince takes a job at the restaurant in a bid to woo her into marrying him. When Prince Akeem's status is revealed, Lisa's father is delighted but Lisa is upset because he lied to her. Disheartened, the prince heads home but in the final scene Lisa agrees to marry him and the pair ride off happily in a carriage. Source: IMDB . | Isaac Osei leads a double life as a yellow cab driver in New York and a tribe chief in his native country Ghana .
Inherited throne and title from his brother in 2006 after he died in unknown circumstances .
Has drawn comparisons with Hollywood classic Coming to America, starring Eddie Murphy as Prince Akeem .
Like the film, Mr Osei found his Queen after arriving in America in 1977 and driving taxis from 1982 .
Now runs his own taxi empire in Manhattan Napasei Taxi Management Corporation with his wife . |
269,768 | e967bf113f5b83ffb9042cdeededb865d5d897ef | Michelle Keegan, Lydia Bright and Amy Willerton are all fans and now the celeb-loved brand Fashion Union is seeking to reach out to the few who are unaware of their expanding empire. The affordable fast-fashion brand has launched its very first campaign video to be aired on UK TV debuting today. It will showcase the label's AW14 collection as modelled by Billie Brown and Lottie Richman whose faces will soon be recognisable across the country. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . Fashion Union has launched first television campaign to coincide with the brand's AW14 collection . Designed in-house Fashion Union's latest range will offer a variety of pastel cocoon coats, metallic skirts, folktale dresses and statement satchels. The new collection is said to be defined by Fashion Union's continued support for homegrown talent with much of the collection being designed in Manchester by the brand's growing creative design team. The TV campaign comes as part of the label's expansion plans for 2014 and 2015. Billie Brown (left) and Lottie Richman (right) are the latest faces of the celeb-loved brand . The brand wants to offer something new but affordable to the market . In the behind the scenes video managing director of Fashion Union Pawan Khosla says that he hopes that the brand can offer something unique to the industry. 'We're trying to do something new and we're trying to bring something exciting to the market and we've really got our fingers on the pulse.' Celebrity fans: Michelle Keegan has been spotted in the brand . Repeat purchase: Made In Chelsea's Rosie Fortescue is a regular shopper at the online retailer . Amy Willerton is a big fan of the bargain brand too . Director of the campaign video, Simon Mulvaney says that the brand offers style for the fashion conscious on a budget. Fashion Union is offering MailOnline readers an exclusive discount when they shop online. Simply enter MAIL25 at the checkout to receive 25 per cent off your order. The code is valid from September 10-24. Usual terms and conditions apply. Not for use on sale items or with any other code or discount. 'They deal with everyone, a big collection of customers and it's all super affordable and super awesome.' Despite it's affordable price tag the brand is fast becoming a go-to fashion for many celebrities. Boasting fans from Michelle Keegan and Rosie Fortescue to Laura Whitmore, Zoe Hardman, Lydia Bright, Diana Vickers, Chloe Sims and Tamera Foster, Fashion Union has established itself among the celebrity circle. The AW14 collection is now available at fashionunion.com . | Fashion Union has launched its first television advertising campaign .
The commercial will showcase the brands AW14 collection .
Fashion Union has a wide variety of celebrity fans including Michelle Keegan .
Watch the behind the scene video .
MailOnline readers offered 25 per cent off with exclusive code below . |
223,741 | adb125e479ac5bc042a36b93f2fcf1d98df6248c | Morgan Schneiderlin is ready to ask for a transfer to push through his move to Tottenham Hotspur. Southampton on Tuesday refused to sell Schneiderlin and Jay Rodriguez to the north London club as they reacted to fans and staff growing increasingly alarmed at the continued sale of players. Schneiderlin, who joined in 2008 from Strasbourg for £1.25million, is believed to be valued at £27m while Tottenham are understood to have offered £13m and Arsenal were poised with a similar bid. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Southampton fan beg Arsene Wenger not to sign Schneiderlin . On his way? Morgan Schneiderlin looks likely to follow his former team-mates to the St Mary's exit . Angry: The tweet posted by Schneiderlin on Tuesday evening . VIDEO Schneiderlin submits transfer request . Going nowhere: Jay Rodriguez won't be leaving Southampton with their other stars, chairman Ralph Krueger claims . The 24-year-old took to Twitter to . express his anger at Southampton's stance saying his 'six years of an . amazing journey' at the club had been 'DESTROYED in one hour'. Southampton . chairman Ralph Krueger said: 'Specifically to Rodriguez and . Schneiderlin, they will not be going anywhere. We see them as part of a . core and the core we’ve got right now and in place is a core that is . where Ronald would like to go and they a part of that core. 'Any . reports that Rodriguez or Schneiderlin are leaving or we are in engaged . in transfer conversations are totally off the mark. They will not be . sold.' Highly-rated: Southampton must ensure they don't lose any more of their star assets before the season starts . Rodriguez has also . been the subject of interest from Liverpool but Tottenham held further . talks on Monday before Krueger's rebuke. Krueger . denied suggestions that this summer’s sales were asset stripping by . owner Katharina Liebherr and assured fans the club is not up for sale. He . also insisted all transfer funds raised will be reinvested back into . the playing squad, though insisted the club would not be rushed into . signing players. Celtic's . Fraser Forster and Virgil van Dijk plus Sporting Lisbon's Marcos Rojo . are all under consideration as are Sunderland's Connor Wickham and . Manchester City's John Guidetti. VIDEO Lovren also criticised Saints to push through Liverpool move . | Saints chairman Ralph Krueger claimed Morgan Schneiderlin or Jay Rodriguez will not be sold this summer .
But Schneiderlin took to Twitter to say '6 years of an amazing journey' had been 'destroyed in 1 hour'
And Frenchman is ready to ask for a move away from St Mary's .
Heightened speculation Schneiderlin wants reunion with Mauricio Pochettino at Tottenham and Rodriguez could follow .
Saints have already seen Adam Lallana, Rickie Lambert, Dejan Lovren, Luke Shaw and Calum Chambers leave this summer . |
234,394 | bb6fb180a3e5bfe4a4bd2e7373ffcb39a42adf6b | (CNN) -- An aspiring astronaut steals a safe full of moon rocks worth millions to impress his girlfriend. Sounds like the pitch to the latest Hollywood heist movie, and it may soon end up on the big screen, but this story really happened and now it's become one of the summer's most buzzed-about books. Best-selling author Ben Mezrich has turned the true-life caper into "Sex on the Moon: The Amazing Story Behind the Most Audacious Heist in History." Mezrich chronicles the exploits of Thad Roberts, a 25-year-old NASA trainee who in 2002 stole 17 pounds of moon rocks from Johnson Space Center, got caught and went to federal prison. Roberts claims he did it all in the name of love. This is the 12th book from Harvard graduate who has created his own subgenre of nonfiction, chronicling the stories of young geniuses, some with questionable ethics, who challenge the establishment in a quest to make millions, even billions of dollars. Mezrich's "Bringing Down the House," about MIT students who won big at blackjack, was turned into the 2008 movie, "21." His previous book "The Accidental Billionaires," became the Oscar-winning movie, "The Social Network" last year. Now "Sex on the Moon" is climbing the best-seller lists, getting rave reviews and is also headed for a Hollywood adaptation. CNN spoke with the author, who's now on a national tour promoting his book. The following is an edited transcript of our interview: . CNN: This sounds more like a Hollywood heist movie, but amazingly "Sex on the Moon" is a true story. What led you to write it? Mezrich: Actually, Thad's story came to me. Soon after he was released from prison, he reached me through mutual friends; he'd read my stuff in prison and wanted to tell me his story. Ever since "Bringing Down The House" and especially since "The Social Network" every genius kid who pulls of a scheme calls me, but this story was different -- it really blew my mind. I'd always wanted to write about NASA, because when you think of NASA you think of the '60s, the Apollo stuff, not the NASA of today. Thad's story was a great way to get inside one of the most amazing places on earth. 'The Hypnotist' unleashes terrifying events . CNN: Tell me more about Thad Roberts, the man at the center of your book. Mezrich: Thad is the most complex character I've ever written about. He's brilliant, charismatic, very nice, and yet he did this crazy thing that derailed his life and ruined his dreams. He fell in love, did something stupid for love -- but more than that, he became this James Bond character. Usually, the geeky guys I write about do what they do because they can't get laid. Thad was kind of the opposite. He got in trouble because he could get the girl. CNN: Where is Roberts now? Mezrich: Utah. When he got out of prison, he went back to the University of Utah to finish his Ph.D. Currently, I think he's looking for somewhere else to continue that work -- he's got a theory of physics he's been working on, and he's really out there. He's an intense, interesting person, so I have no idea what's next for him. 'Social Network' scores big at the Golden Globes . CNN: Hollywood turned your last book, "The Accidental Billionaires" into the Oscar-winning film, "The Social Network." I understand similar plans are under way for "Sex on the Moon." Mezrich: Yes, the same producers from "The Social Network" are making "Sex On The Moon." Scott Rudin, Dana Brunetti, Mike DeLuca, Kevin Spacey. They are unbelievable talents and it's amazing to have them making this. It's with Sony/Columbia Pictures again, they've done such great things with my previous two movies. It's going to be awesome. And hopefully "Sex On The Moon" will be my first movie that keeps the title of the book! How can you not love "Sex On The Moon?" CNN: I understand your wife helped you come up with the book title? Mezrich: Yes, she was the dirty mind behind "Sex On The Moon." In the story, Thad actually spread some moon rocks on a bed and had sex with his girlfriend on them, so that's where it comes from. But I think it's very catchy. Author: Watch out for 'the accident people' CNN: You've written about card-counting math geniuses, Facebook billionaires, and a failed moon- rock heist. They all show a darker side of the American dream, so what draws you to these stories? Mezrich: I live vicariously through my subjects. I try to be Hunter S. Thompson without the drugs, guns, and alcohol. I am fascinated by geeks turned rock stars, by smart people who do crazy things, by stories involving sex, money and betrayal. It's what I like to read and watch so it's what I like to write. CNN: What are you working on next? Mezrich: A couple of projects, a documentary TV show where I go inside these wild stories every week, a scripted show idea or two, but I don't have my next book yet. I'm waiting for someone to call me with a crazy enough story. | "Sex on the Moon" chronicles the true story of Thad Roberts .
Roberts went to prison for stealing moon rocks from NASA to impress his girlfriend .
Ben Mezrich's previous books were turned into movies "The Social Network" and "21" |
85,135 | f174d184b601de344532db7007a9abe261684557 | By . Chris Brooke . PUBLISHED: . 10:35 EST, 15 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 10:35 EST, 15 May 2013 . When Freddy Taylor started waking up and playing loudly during the early hours, his parents hoped it was a phase he would grow out of. Unfortunately that didn’t happen. The three-year-old’s nightly play sessions lasting two hours or more became so exhausting that his sleep-deprived parents resorted to drastic action. After taking expert advice they stripped his bedroom of toys and all colourful objects so his imagination wouldn’t be stimulated when he woke up. Freddy Taylor, 3, wakes up so much in the night that his exhausted parents, Kathryn (pictured) and Ryan, took him to see sleep specialists . The tips his mother Kathryn Taylor, 33, received during recent ‘sleep therapy’ sessions did improve the youngster’s sleeping - especially on the two nights a week after attending pre-school . Mother-of-two Mrs Taylor and her husband Ryan, 36, a computer technician, were at their ‘wits’ end’ after enduring two years of sleep deprivation which started when Freddy was one. She said: ‘He will pretend he’s playing with his friends. He uses the same name as his friends at school, and tells me sometimes that he’s been “in a film” with his friends. ‘It sounds like a dream, but we’ve taken him to a sleep clinic where they observed his patterns and said he is definitely awake when he’s playing. ‘I call it sleep parties because he is really having a great time. He isn’t attention-seeking, in fact if you go in, he doesn’t want to be disturbed in his games.’ Freddy goes to bed at 7pm each night and never has a problem nodding off. He can stay awake for up to four hours a night - although it is usually two or three - and is woken at 7am regardless of what happened at night. They were advised to remove anything colourful from his room as it could stimulate his imagination when he wakes up in the night . As a result his parents get about five hours sleep and luckily his one-year-old brother Morgan is in a separate room and manages to sleep through the noise. ‘Freddy has a very vivid imagination. He can be incredibly loud, so much so that I actually went round next door to apologise when our new neighbours moved in,’ said Mrs Taylor, from Sheffield. The sleep practitioner advised them to remove anything with colour that may catch his eye. ‘We’ve taken down his posters, taken out his toys, that sort of thing. His bedroom is painted a calming green colour already so we haven’t had to redecorate.’ They also now given Freddy an extra evening meal of foods such as bananas, peanut butter and oats which help release the brain’s sleep-inducing chemical melatonin. His parents were also told to put him to bed at 7pm and wake him up at 7am regardless of how much of the night he spends awake . But despite these tactics the battle continues. And the Easter break from school caused the ‘parties’ between 1 and 3am to start again every night. ‘It’s utterly exhausting because Ryan and I are obviously not getting much sleep,’ said Mrs Taylor. ‘And because he’s been up all night, Freddy is often difficult during the day, he’s grumpy or wants to go to sleep, so it’s been really challenging dealing with him.’ The parents hope the situation will improve when Freddy starts school full-time. They were also told to give him foods - such as bananas and oats - before bed because these encourage the brain to release sleep chemicals . Vicki Dawson, Founder of The Children's Sleep Charity, said: ‘We take a behavioural approach to children with sleep problems like Freddy’s, any medical problems we refer them to experts. ‘Structure is essential, parents have to implement the guidance we give them for the therapy to work. ‘We offer dietary advice, recommend setting strict bed times and pre-bedtime activity to calm children down. ‘We also recommend taking items out of bedrooms which will catch a child's attention when they wake up. ‘In the vast majority of cases, parents see improvements. We've collected figures which say 89 per cent of children have improved. ‘The other 11 per cent might be parents who haven't implemented what we've recommended, or a child with a medical issue.’ | Freddy Taylor wakes up and plays loudly for more than two hours a night .
His parents, Kathryn and Ryan Taylor, took him to see sleep specialists .
Told to take colourful objects from his room so imagination isn't stimulated .
Also told to put him to bed and get him up at the same time every day .
Given food like bananas before bed to encourage release of sleep chemical . |
166,623 | 637375b56d2b8fcd04c8bbadfb245c02969655d7 | By . Associated Press . UPDATED: . 04:44 EST, 23 April 2012 . The house is like many others nearby. Blinded by boards over windows after witnessing the worst kind of violence, the white two-story house, its paint chipped and its front steps crumbling, sits vacant behind a rusty iron fence that separates an overgrown yard from the cracked sidewalk. About the only difference between it and thousands of boarded-up buildings in Chicago's most notorious neighborhood is that Oscar-winning actress and singer Jennifer Hudson grew up here - and her mother, brother and nephew died here, allegedly gunned down by Hudson's brother-in-law, a known gang member. Horror house: The former home of Jennifer Hudson is boarded up in the Englewood neighborhood of Chicago after the murder of her mother, brother and nephew . That and the shrine of teddy bears, candles and flowers was bigger than others that sprout up on these blocks when life ends violently. When the trial of William Balfour begins Monday in the 2008 killings, it will be an all-too-familiar story of death and violence in Englewood on the city's South Side. Hudson’s mother Darnell Hudson Donerson, 57, and older brother Jason, 29, were found dead at the family’s home on Chicago’s south side in 2008. The singer then offered $100,000 for her missing . nephew Julian King's safe return. The child's body was found three days later in a . vehicle on the city’s west side with multiple gun shot wounds. Ms . Hudson is on the witness list for the trial of her sister's estranged . husband William Balfour who is accused of killing her family. At a time when cities across the . country have seen the number of homicides fall, sometimes dramatically, . Chicago's jumped by a whopping 60 per cent the first three months of the . year, and Englewood's violence was a big reason why. Charged: William Balfour is set to go on trial this week in the murders of Jennifer Hudson's mother Darnell Hudson Donerson, older brother Jason and nephew Julian King . Trial: William Balfour will be tried for murder starting this week at the Cook County courthouse, shown here . The 15 slayings there in 2012 are nearly double the number reported during the same period a year ago. Last year, not only did the number jump to 60 from 40 the previous year, but the total number of homicides reported in this roughly 20-by-20 block community was more than half as many reported for the entire city of Washington, D.C. and a little less than a third of Houston's total for the year. 'It happens here all the time,' said Jean . Carter-Hill, a community activist whose group helps children and . families. 'I can't even run to all these funerals, it's just too many, . looking at all these dead people in caskets all the time.' In Chicago, Englewood has become synonymous with street crime. Since he took office last May, Mayor Rahm Emanuel has used the word 'Englewood' as almost shorthand for gangs, guns and the dangers facing the city's children. Warnings: Jennifer Hudson has told investigators in the murder case that she had misgivings about Balfour . But the deteriorating neighborhood has . presented him with one of his biggest challenges, becoming a focus for . his promise to deploy more police officers to the street while cracking . down on Englewood's gangs. 'The . mayor says very publicly that a murder in Englewood is a murder in the . city of Chicago [and] just because it happened there it is not OK,' said . Police Supt Garry McCarthy, in an AP interview. 'People feel abandoned in those neighborhoods and we are saying you are not abandoned.' Residents . say they've seen police commanders and anti-gang initiatives come and . go over the years, and the neighborhood just gets more violent and the . criminals more brazen. Just . as in years past when public housing residents slept in their bathtubs . to protect them from the bullets that pierced their walls, residents say . the fear of gun battles has pushed some of them deep into their homes . and away from their windows where they could be hit by stray bullets. 'People don't give a damn, they just . shoot you across the street, they come into your house and shoot you,' said 80-year-old Homer Wright, who made headlines this month after . shooting a teenager who allegedly broke into his tavern, where he'd . taken to sleeping to prevent break-ins. The authorities dropped charges against Wright but confiscated the handgun he owned illegally for self-protection. Harrowing: Jennifer Hudson poses with her Oscar in 2008 and brother-in-law William Balfour. She's expected to testify at his murder trial over the shootings of her mother, brother and nephew . Murder trial: William Balfour is the estranged husband of Jennifer Hudson's sister Julia. He is accused of killing her mother, brother and nephew four years ago . Protection: Homer Wright made headlines this month after shooting a teen who allegedly broke into his tavern, where he'd taken to sleeping to prevent break-ins . There are a host of reasons for Englewood's downward spiral. But they mostly boil down to an exodus of families from an area that was predominantly single-family homes, resulting in an explosion in the number of abandoned buildings, and an influx of gang members. Home to 100,000 residents in 1960, Englewood's population has dwindled. It had dropped to about 40,000 in 2000 and to 30,000 just 10 years later. Part of the reason, Carter-Hill and others say, is that families moved out to safer places and others lost their homes when they lost jobs during the recession. According to the police department, . there are more than 4,100 abandoned buildings in Englewood, nearly 600 . of them vacated in just the last 15 months. Troubled relationship: Jennifer Hudson's sister Julia with her estranged husband William Balfour who is standing trial for murdering her relatives . One study found more vacant homes in Englewood and the community to the immediate west than anywhere in Chicago. It all has created an atmosphere ripe for a category of people nobody wanted to see: Gang members who left the city's torn-down public housing high rises and found the abandoned houses magnets for crime. 'We've seen gangs come in, run cords from the house next door for electrical service and make it look like a regular house and they're using it as a gang house,' said Leo Schmitz, commander of Englewood's police district. Moore said the Hudson family still owns their now-empty house, but they've apparently stopped trying to remodel it after vandals broke in at least twice to steal construction materials. Abandoned: Antie Moore, pictured, says the Hudson family still owns the house, but have stopped trying to remodel it after vandals broke in at least twice to steal construction materials . Close ties: Jennifer Hudson offered $100,000 for the safe return of her nephew Julian King, seven (left). His body was found in an SUV with multiple gunshot wounds in October 2008 . Murdered: The singer's mother Darnell Hudson . Donerson (left) and older brother Jason (right) were shot dead in the . family's home on the south side of Chicago . He sees Hudson's sister come by once in a while, but hasn't seen Jennifer Hudson, who even after she became famous came by to talk with people and even jump rope with kids outside. But he does see gangbangers on the street all day, every day. Among those, authorities said, was Balfour, the suspect in the Hudson family slayings. While prosecutors say the killings had a domestic motive, tied to his deteriorating marriage to the singer's sister, his life story is a familiar one in Englewood. A high school drop-out, Balfour was a member of the Gangster Disciples and had a long rap sheet for drug offenses, stealing cars and ultimately a seven-year stint in prison for attempted murder and vehicular manslaughter. A little more than two years after his release, he was behind bars again, charged with first-degree murder in the deaths of Hudson's mother, brother and 7-year-old nephew. McCarthy said the Englewood gangs are . more rigid and territorial than the gangs he saw when he was a ranking . member of the police department in New York and chief in Newark, New . Jersey. Tragedy: Tributes lie outside the home in the Englewood neighbourhood of Chicago where Jennifer Hudson's mother and brother were shot dead . That means a rival gang member on a street where the drug trade is controlled by another gang can mean only one thing: Likely gunfire. In response, Schmitz said he has ordered intelligence about gangs distributed to all police officers, not just the anti-gang squad. And he's ordered officers out of their cars and walking the community more than ever before - a practice Carter-Hill said is necessary to build trust where there has long been suspicion of police. Antie Moore, who lives a few doors down from the Hudson house, said he thinks things have gotten worse since the national media arrived to interview people after the killings. A city clean-up crew came a few days ago, but Moore suspects it had more to do with news crews' return ahead of the trial than anything else. 'They only cleaned up the alley behind [the Hudson house] and a little bit of the lot next to it,' he said. Then, he said, 'They left.' Devastating: The SUV, where the body of seven-year-old Julian King was found with gunshot wounds, is removed from a Chicago street . | Relatives of American Idol finalist shot dead at Chicago home in 2008 .
Oscar-winner may testify at murder trial of William Balfour, which begins this week .
Number of homicides in Chicago has climbed 60 per cent in the first three months of 2012 . |
161,097 | 5c4315ec7b43e6f22efed2681b6d81c0d6f2eed4 | (CNN) -- Whether you're into baseball or backgammon, Harry Potter or heavy metal, Ning has an online network for you. Gina Bianchini, CEO of Ning, says her site brings together people with common interest and passions. A fast-growing, free Web site launched two years ago, Ning lets members custom build their own social-networking platforms based around their passions and pastimes. As Facebook and MySpace connect people to friends and family, Ning gathers users around common interests. The site hosts networks for hip-hop music lovers, video gaming moms and teens obsessed with the Twilight book and movie franchise. Other popular Ning networks bring people together online for political and social causes such as "Pickens' Plan," which advocates wind energy. Ning had 4.7 million unique visitors as of January and surpassed 1 million social networks -- about one-fifth of them considered active -- last month. Ning also enhanced its site in March with new features such as a real-time activity feed so users can get up-to-the-minute reports -- not unlike Twitter's tweets -- about what others are doing. CNN spoke recently to Ning CEO Gina Bianchini, a Silicon Valley native and former Goldman Sachs analyst, about the company and the future of social networking. Watch Bianchini chat about Ning » . CNN: Where did this idea for Ning come from? Bianchini: We really started with a very simple premise. What if you gave people the opportunity to create their own social experiences for their own unique passions/topics/interest? We started on the ground floor to build it in such a way that it can be customized and programmed and made truly unique for each individual. I believe the most powerful ideas are the most simple. CNN: What is the mission of Ning? Bianchini: It's a way to get people to organize and get people to meet around their passions. CNN: Did any specific Web sites or companies inspire you to create Ning? Bianchini: We were really inspired by the first wave of Internet companies truly native to the Web like Craigslist and eBay. They were really around people connecting to other people. They were really about the Internet connecting people to each other. It's completely unique to the Internet -- you can't do it via television or newspapers. CNN: Did you expect the idea of connecting people though common interests to be so successful? Bianchini: Social behavior is really what people want to do online. It was clear for the rapid adoption of social networking in general that it is very much the case. CNN: What are some of the interesting social networks on Ning? Bianchini: There are 200,000 social networks are active right now, and they are across tens of thousands of unique passions. There is a network called 'This is 50.' It's like a hip hop TMZ. Another is the 'Pickens' Plan.' It's a way they are organizing more than 200,000 people around wind-energy policy. There is another one for cricket, specifically Indian cricket, which has added half a million people in the last two and a half weeks. There is another about the Twilight saga for teens. So it ranges from 50 Cent to teens talking about Twilight to serious adults looking at how to make changes in government policy. That's the power of the Internet and the power of connecting people. CNN: What do you attribute to the growth of Ning? Bianchini: What's fundamental in the adoption of Ning is that people are unique. They have unique interest and passion and they like having a contact for that experience and for their identity. CNN: What makes Ning different from other social-networking sites? Bianchini: It's focused on providing the [means for] people to create new social networks around their interests and passions and connect new people around those passions. We think that's a very critical element of organization. The Facebook phenomenon connects you to people you already know and Twitter is amazing for news and real-time events. What we see with people who gravitate to Ning is meeting new people with similar interests. CNN: How can Ning be useful to organizations or corporations? Bianchini: When you can bring people together around a common cause there is incredible potential to do fundraising and to organize volunteers. CNN: How does your site make money? Bianchini: If you want to add a feature like making your own domain, you can pay a la carte for options. On the free service there are ads contextual to what the network is. CNN: What are your thoughts on the future of social networking? Bianchini: Niche social networking sites are absolutely something people want to do. People clearly want to do this. . .[and] as people get more comfortable with social networking via Facebook, Twitter, they will look around and say, 'I want a social network for this particular group.' CNN: What are some of your company's goals in the future? Bianchini: We are really focused on making our service perfect for people who come to meet new people. We're growing really rapidly and we're seeing a lot of interest and new people joining social networks. | CNN talks to Gina Bianchini, CEO of Ning, a fast-growing Web site .
Ning lets people with common interests gather around niche social networks .
The site boasts more than 1 million social networks -- some 200,000 of them active .
In March, the site added a real-time activity feed to help users stay updated . |
116,516 | 226271704007854e047ee41106e83f2dc03f1ee0 | By . Jonathan O'Callaghan . In 2010 astronomers were baffled when they found a supernova 30 times brighter than it should have been. Named PS1-10afx it was identical to similar types of supernova save for its intense brightness, leaving scientists wondering if their models were wrong. But new observations suggest it may not have been a ‘super-supernova’ at all, but rather its brightness was magnified by a hidden lens galaxy that has now recently discovered. Astronomers have revealed that a supernova 30 times brighter than it should have been may have been an illusion caused by a lens galaxy. Pictured is a Canada-France-Hawaii-Telescope (CFHT) image of the field . Type 1a supernovas, caused when a large star transfers material to a white dwarf until it explodes, are useful tools for understanding the universe. This is because they have similar luminosities regardless of where they occur in the universe, meaning they can be used as ‘distance markers’. So when PS1-10afx was found to break those previous theories, it had astronomers worried they had been wrong about the supernovas. This particular supernova occurred nine billion light years away, and shone with an intensity of 100 billion suns. Type Ia: A white dwarf accumulates material from a stellar companion until it undergoes runaway nuclear fusion and explodes. Non-standard type 1a: Two white dwarfs merge until their combined mass causes an explosion. Type II: A star at least nine times the mass of the sun eventually experiences a core collapse as its fuel runs out, causing it to explode. Type 1b and 1c: A star undergoes core collapse but most of its outer hydrogen has already been lost to stellar winds. Hypernova: Extreme type of supernova, 50 times as energetic as other supernovas, resulting in a black hole. The exact cause of them is unknown. In 2013, scientists at Harvard concluded it must be a type of new, significantly brighter class of supernova. But a new study in Science suggests it is nothing more than an average supernova, amplified by an intervening galaxy. The study was carried out by a team of researchers led by Robert Quimby at the Kavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe (Kavli IPMU). On analysis of the supernova, they weren’t so quick to agree with their compatriots at Harvard that it was a super-supernova. ‘PS1-10afx looked a lot like a Type 1a supernova,’ says Quimby, ‘but it was just too bright.’ Generally, when a supernova is found to be brighter than a regular Type 1a supernova it is either hotter, appearing blue, or involves a much larger initial size. ‘New physics would thus be required to explain PS1-10afx as an intrinsically luminous supernova,’ continues Quimby. The observed spectra of the lensing galaxy (left) and host galaxy containing the original supernova (right), as measured by the Low-Resolution Imaging Spectrograph on the 10-metre Keck-1 telescope, suggesting that the lensing galaxy was responsible for the extreme brightness of the supernova . Instead, the scientists believed that it was nothing more than an illusion and that a hidden galaxy was altering what we were seeing. So in September 2013 they spent seven hours collecting light at the location of PS1-10afx using the . Low-Resolution Imaging Spectrograph on the 10-metre Keck-1 telescope in Hawaii.In the glare of the galaxy containing PS1-10afx they found another galaxy, much dimmer, but of the right size to cause the lensing effect. ‘This second galaxy was faint enough to have previously gone unnoticed,’ says Anupreeta More, Astronomer at the Kavli IMPU. ‘But our analysis showed that it was still the right size to explain the gravitational lensing of PS1-10afx.’ Gravitational lensing occurs when a large, massive object like a galaxy bends the light of a distant source. The . light from the distant source is gathered by the intervening galaxy . and, when we finally see it on Earth, it appears amplified. The . effect was first predicted by Einstein’s Theory of General Relativity – . now, this discovery serves as another validation of the theory. Gravitational lensing is an effect that occurs when a massive intervening object magnifies light from a distant source. The effect is highlighted by an 'Einstein ring', pictured, where light is bent around a lensing object . Such lensing galaxies for Type 1a supernovas had been predicted before, but none had been found. However, this discovery could lead to similar lensing galaxies being found in future. ‘We had existing predictions of what a gravitationally lensed Type Ia supernova would look like,’ says Masamune Oguri from the Department of Physics at the University of Tokyo. ‘But the small size of this lens galaxy and the large magnification it produced was not exactly what we were expecting for the first discovery. ‘However, this system may very well prove typical of discoveries to come. 'Because more distant supernovae are more likely to be gravitationally lensed, lensed supernovae are typically highly magnified and located in the distant universe. ‘Our new approach allows us to find unresolved strong lensing events produced by such low-mass galaxies. ‘Thus, the expected number of gravitationally lensed Type Ia supernovae to be found in future surveys increases by an order of magnitude.’ | An extremely bright supernova spotted in 2010 may have been an illusion .
PS1-10afx was unusual as it was 30 times brighter than similar explosions .
This baffled astronomers and hinted at a new type of supernova .
But new research has revealed that a hidden 'lens galaxy' was in the way .
Through gravitational lensing this magnified the light of the supernova .
The discovery was made with the Keck-1 telescope in Hawaii . |
256,158 | d7954667376fefd46edd634a8cae0b809dcd0d67 | There was no mistaking who ruled the waves today, as the world's largest container ship pulled into Southampton with thousands of Christmas presents on board. Measuring 396 metres long - or the size of four professional football pitches - the CMA CGM Marco Polo made its maiden call to Britain packed full of goods from the Far East that will be distributed across the UK. Locked away within the stacks of . anonymous steel containers is anything and everything from televisions to soft . furnishings and power tools to clothing. Christmas is coming: The world's largest container ship, the CMA CGM Marco Polo, arrived at Southampton with thousands of Christmas presents on board . The scope of the biggest man-made object to have ever moved across the planet is hard to comprehend: she is longer than the superliner Queen Mary 2 and more than five times longer than an Airbus A380. After unloading her cargo, this true monster of the seas will set sail again tomorrow afternoon, this time bound for Hamburg, Germany. Nicolas Sartini, CMA CGM Group's . senior vice-president of Asia-Europe Lines, said the company launched the South Korea-built ship 'with great . pride'. Making waves: The Marco Polo arrived at Southampton early this morning . Visitors at Southampton Port catch a glimpse of the massive container ship . Bearing gifts: The ship is the size of four football pitches and can carry more than 16,000 containers . Chris Lewis, managing director of DP . World Southampton, which operates the terminal, said today marked 'the latest milestone' in the terminal's history. He added: 'With the container industry changing, these new giants of the sea will soon be regulars at the terminal.' Marco Polo is the first of the next generation of super-vessels destined to keep the wheels of international trade turning. Even Cunard's flagship, the mighty 151,000-ton Queen Mary 2, a familiar sight in Southampton, would be dwarfed by the giant container ship. Technology: Some of the state-of the-art features used by the Marco Polo . Voyage: The routes CMA CGM's ships take from Asia to Europe . The Marco Polo is also far bigger than the nuclear-powered French aircraft carrier, Charles de Gaulle, western Europe's largest warship. Her length is equivalent to well in excess of 100 family saloon cars and the ship can carry more than 16,020 containers on her vast decks. Built by Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering of South Korea, the new ship boasts a vareity of environmentally-friendly technologies, such as an electronically-controlled engine that allows reduced fuel consumption. With an improved hull design, the Marco Polo's CO2 emissions are much lower than the average cargo ship and a ballast water treatment system helps to prevent pollution. Dwarfed: A port worker stands beneath the world's largest container ship . Locked away within the anonymous steel containers is everything from televisions to soft furnishings, power tools and clothing from the Far East . Feeling small: A boat moves alongside the Marco Polo, which is 51 metres longer than the Queen Mary 2 . Ready to unload: More than 16,000 containers will be unpacked before the giant vessel leaves for Hamburg . Over the past 20 years, the size of container vessels has steadily increased. The ship is: . In the 1980s, the average container carried just 1,600 containers, but the Marco Polo has increased that number tenfold. Before the latest giant of the waves arrived on the scene, the Emma Maersk, which was built in 2006 and capable of carrying 15,550 containers, held the title of the world's largest container ship. Southampton Port director Doug Morrison said: . 'We have now placed ourselves on the map as a terminal capable of handling the world's largest container ship. 'We have all the right ingredients to continue being one of the most productive terminals in Northern Europe.' But the Marco Polo might not hold on to her prestigious title for very long. Another two container ships of similar size, each also named after famous explorers, are set to follow Marco Polo next year and will be . capable of carrying a massive 18,000 containers. Heading west: The Marco Polo pictured in Hong Kong waters last week on its way to Britain . Looking ship-shape: An Egyptian woman took a photo of the cargo ship as it sailed through the Suez Canal last week . Passing through: An Egyptian man watches the world's largest container ship passing the port of Ismailia, 120 km north of Cairo . | Marco Polo, the new giant of the waves, is five times bigger than an Airbus A380 or the size of four football pitches .
Can carry more than 16,000 containers on board .
Vessel is 51 times longer than superliner Queen Mary 2 . |
278,124 | f44eb56238f6995bd99efb9db576a6b12779ed87 | By . Sophie Jane Evans . and Daily Mail Reporter . and Associated Press Reporter . Californian wife and mother Misty Holt-Singh was tragically killed Wednesday as bank robbers used her as a human shield during a high-speed chase and gun battle with police. Holt-Singh, a bank customer, was taken hostage by three armed men who were spotted . arriving at a Bank of the West branch in Hammer Lane and Thornton Road . in north Stockton, California, at 2pm yesterday. A bank guard managed to alert authorities of the robbery at 2:11 p.m. but was tied up soon after. Scroll down for video . Beloved wife and mother Misty Holt-Singh was killed when she was caught in the crossfire of a shootout between the bank robbers who took her hostage and the Stockton police . It's believed Holt-Singh was being used as a human shield during the shoot-out . This image provided by the Stockton Police Department shows a condolence letter written for Misty Holt-Singh . IIt only took a minute for police to arrive on the scene causing the robbers to flee. 2 P.M. - Three armed men enter a Bank of the West branch in Hammer Lane and Thornton Road . in north Stockton, Cali. 2:11 p.m. - A bank guard alerts police before being restrained . 2:12 p.m. - Police arrive on the scene . 2:16 p.m. - The thieves make off with three hostages in a bank employees green SUV. They make it 14 blocks before shooting one. 2:28 p.m. - The thieves pull off the highway in an attempt to ambush pursuing officers but are foiled when authorities spot them . 3:16 p.m. - They shoot the second hostage . 3:18 p.m. - Police are able to shoot out the SUV's tires bringing it to a halt in the middle of an intersection . 3:20 - The thieves exit the SUV using hostage Misty Holt-Singh as a human shield. She's killed in the crossfire along with two of the thieves. They took three female hostages in total - two bank employees and Holt-Singh - . from the building at gunpoint, before stealing one of their SUVs and driving away at approximately 2:16 p.m.. CBS Sacramento reports that her as-yet-unnamed 12-year-old daughter was left left stranded at the bank as her mother was taken hostage. Police tell Mail Online they have yet to confirm the exact amount of money the robbers escaped with. The thieves only went 14 blocks before shooting one of the hostages who was then either pushed from the truck or jumped. Doctors say her injuries are not life threatening. For the next 45 minutes, the robbers . led dozens of police cars on a chase across highways and city streets, . according to Stockton police Officer Joe Silva. The robbers not only had assault rifles but extra magazines taped or strapped to their bodies. Police lost the SUV at approximately 2:28 p.m. as it pulled off the highway. However, rather than using the advantage to speed away the thieves stopped in position to ambush the police they knew were just seconds away. Luckily for authorities, another officer saw them from another angle and warned the pursuing officers. The second employee was shot at 3:16 p.m., shortly before she either jumped from the car or was pushed. She is expected to survive, The Los Angeles Times reports. Finally at 3:18 p.m. the police were able to shoot out the SUV's tires and bring it to a halt in the middle of an intersection. They used Holt-Singh, their final hostage, as a human shield in a final shootout. She was tragically killed in the crossfire. 'These . suspects wanted no part of a peaceful resolution,' said Police Chief Eric Jones. 14 police cars were shot during the pursuit before the SUV's tires could be shot out . Pictured here with her family, Holt-Singh reportedly was forced to leave her 12-year-old daughter behind alone in the bank as she was taken hostage . The suspects fired AK-47-style rifles from the windows of their SUV during the deadly pursuit . The only surviving suspect has been identified as Jaime Ramos, 19, of Stockton . He added: 'It was such a chaotic ... fluid . situation, really one of the most dangerous, tense situations that a . police officer could go through. 'The firing never stopped. They were . trying to kill (the officers), no doubt. There was a lot on the line and . the officers responded appropriately.' One . suspect was declared dead at the scene, while the second and third were . taken to hospital with gunshot wounds, according to News10. Stockton police spokesman Joe Silva . said Thursday morning the men, ages 30 and 27, were Stockton residents. He identified the third and surviving suspect as 19-year-old Jaime Ramos . and said Ramos was booked into San Joaquin County Jail on suspicion of . homicide, kidnapping, robbery and attempted murder. In total, the robbers shot 14 police . cars and a still undetermined number of homes during the chase. Violent: An American hostage has been killed and two others injured after three armed men robbed a bank and led police on a high-speed chase. Above, two of the hostages was thrown from this SUV (pictured) in the chase . Damaged: The three armed men were spotted arriving at a Bank of the West branch in Hammer Lane and Thornton Road in north Stockton, California, at 2pm yesterday. Above, the bullet-riddled SUV after the chase . Upon learning of her death, Holt-Singh's friends and family took to her Facebook page to memorialize her. 'Misty, you are an awesome woman & my heart goes out to you and your family,' read one memorial. 'I can't believe this' wrote another. 'RIP misty.' 'This is not something you want to hear in the middle of the day,' brother-in-law Ajit Singh told reporters. 'You . don’t wake up or go to your job thinking something like this is going . to happen to you.' A guard at this Stockton bank managed to alert police before he was tied down . Armed response: Stockton police officers are pictured at the scene where the SUV was stopped yesterday . Suspect: A male suspect is accompanied by police as he is led to hospital following the high-speed chase . Another hostage has been identified by family friends as bank employee Kelly Huber. The SUV used in the chase was a Ford Explorer registered to her. 'Yeah, my heart kind of dropped. I am concerned,' said neighbor Amber Harbor. 'I want to know what . happened and if she was involved and if she is OK. I just hope that . everything is OK with her.' Robbery: The three men allegedly robbed this Bank of the West branch in Hammer Lane and Thornton Road . Today, witnesses said the final shoot-out had resembled a warzone. 'It sounded like five minutes of straight gunfire,' witness Sam York told KCRA-TV. 'It seemed like it wasn't real.' Jose Maldonado, who said he saw the robbers taking the women out of the bank, said the men had rifles that looked like AK-47s slung over their shoulders. He added that they had also tied up a bank security guard, and didn't seem to care that there were police all around. 'They were not afraid. They weren't going to take no for an answer. These poor women, they were screaming, they were so distraught, so scared,' he said. In a statement, the bank said it would not provide information about the victims. 'This is a tragic incident and we are focused on supporting our customers and employees,' it said. Scene: Today, witnesses said the final shoot-out had resembled a warzone. Above, police at the scene . | Misty Holt-Singh was taken hostage by armed robbers who reportedly used her as a human shield as they exchanged gunfire with police .
The three armed robbers arrived at Bank of the West in Stockton yesterday at 2 p.m.
They were spotted taking three female hostages from bank at gunpoint .
Holt-Singh forced to leave daughter, 12, alone in the bank as she was taken .
They then led police on 45-minute pursuit through city streets in SUV .
During chase, two of hostages were thrown from bullet-riddled vehicle .
Fourteen police cars and numerous homes also peppered with bullets .
Two suspects were killed; third, Jaime Ramos, 19 , has been taken into police custody . |
198,969 | 8d96d00cf87a4347762ec0bbb9d7e0dfc434b03d | By . Associated Press and Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 02:03 EST, 8 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 02:04 EST, 8 November 2013 . A suburban Philadelphia woman from Norristown, Pa. has been banned from using Twitter as part of her sentence for a stalking conviction on Wednesday. Montgomery County Judge William Carpenter barred 34-year-old Sadiyyah Young of Pottstown from tweeting for at least five years. Authorities say Young used derogatory and harassing tweets against people involved in a custody case regarding her children, including a judge who ruled against her, lawyers, social workers and foster parents. Scroll Down For Video . Young's threatening tweets included the addresses of social workers and of a county judge . 'I can’t imagine this is the first time this has ever happened, but it just felt like it was an appropriate remedy to punish her for what she did,' District Attorney Matthew Quigg told CBS Philly. Quigg says Young tweeted the home address of social workers and of a county judge. Court records also show that Young faked her identity in order to file complaints against the judge assigned to her case. The month long battle included a tweet that read, in part: 'Somebody should pay all these people a visit, bust out windows and cut tires!' Young pleaded guilty Wednesday to misdemeanor charges of stalking, forgery, and identity theft. She also was sentenced to 11 1/2 months to 23 months in jail and three years' probation. Assistant District Attorney Matthew Quigg said Young's tweets were threatening and gave out too much personal information of people involved in the custody battle over her children . | 'Somebody should pay all these people a visit, bust out windows and cut tires!,'read one of Sadiyyah Young's fiery tweets .
Young pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges of stalking, forgery, and identity theft . |
52,853 | 95ecdc02382dbf4a01bb346d495e9f2f9dfcced9 | By . Snejana Farberov . A California man was arrested for allegedly murdering his estranged wife and 5-year-old daughter over the weekend after stabbing his girlfriend. Joanna Barrientos, 36, and her stepdaughter Mia Lopez, 5, were discovered shot to death Saturday night in the town of Hemet. Johnny Lopez, 36, Joanna's estranged husband, was arrested Saturday in connection to the double homicide and attempted murder of another woman. Scroll down for video . Monstrous crime: Johnny Lopez (left) is accusing of shooting dead his biological daughter, 5-year-old Mia, and his estranged wife, Joanna Barrientos (right) Crime scene: The bodies of the woman and child were discovered in their Hemet home . According to a relative, the slain victims were not blood relatives, but Miss Barrientos cared for Mia and treated her as her own daughter, KTLA reported. Sheriff's deputies got a call at around 9.13pm Saturday from Barrientos' mother, Annie Copado, who said that two dead bodies were inside a home in the 26000 block of Girard Street in Hemet. An hour earlier, deputies responded to a home in the 40000 block of Sunset Lane, about a mile away from the second crime scene, where they discovered a woman suffering from stab wounds and lacerations to her neck. She was taken to a hospital in critical condition. Johnny Lopez was arrested a short time later on Sunset Lane after being spotted standing on the street covered in blood. The 36-year-old allegedly put up a fight but was taken into custody after a brief struggle. In cold blood: A relative said little Mia and her stepmother were likely killed as they slept . Unstable environment: Mia's granduncle said he had contacted child services to try and get the 5-year-old out away from Lopez (left), who is allegedly involved with drugs . At around 9.16pm, deputies got the call about shots fired inside a home on Girard Street and discovered the bodies of Barrientos and little Mia. The girl's granduncle said that he was told by deputies that the woman and little girl were likely asleep when they were shot dead. John Bustos told the station that the deadly incident may be related to drugs. The man added that Mia's death may have been prevented if only child services acted on his earlier report asking the agency to remove the girl from her parents' home. Johnny Lopez has been charged with murder with malice, multiple homicides and attempted murder. He is being held without bail pending his arrangement, which is scheduled for Thursday, MyFox LA reported. Deputies said both incidents appear to be related. The surviving victim has not been named, but detectives believe that she and Lopez may have been romantically involved. | Johnny Lopez, 36, was arrested after being spotted covered in blood outside the Hemet, California, home of his wounded girlfriend .
Deputies say he slashed woman's throat and stabbed her after gunning down his wife, Joanna Barrientos, and daughter Mia . |
62,659 | b20cbfc109f08de5011ac403f045e171e3e3f759 | A worker at a halal abattoir has been sacked and three others suspended after being filmed breaking strict rules on slaughtering sheep. The men could face prosecution for the ‘horrifying yet routine abuse’ captured by animal rights campaigners using hidden cameras. Slaughtermen at the Bowood Lamb abattoir in Thirsk, North Yorkshire, are seen ‘hacking and sawing’ at animals’ throats in apparent contravention of Islamic practice. The RSPCA slammed the 'absolutely shocking' footage amid renewed calls to ban halal slaughter, which is opposed by the British Veterinary Association and 100,000 people in an online petition. Sickening: A worker at a halal abattoir has been sacked and three others suspended after being filmed breaking strict rules on slaughtering sheep . Horrifying: The men could face prosecution for the 'routine abuse' captured by animal rights campaigners using secret cameras . Sheep at Bowood Lamb were filmed being kicked, lifted and hurled, with one worker recorded standing on a conscious sheep’s neck. Staff are also alleged to have erupted in laughter over a sheep bleeding to death with spectacles drawn around her eyes in green paint. Slaughtermen were allegedly filmed ‘taunting and frightening’ animals by waving knives, smacking them on the head and shouting at them. And instead of praying as the sheep were killed, the Muslim workers chatted as a radio ‘blared out Christmas songs’ and colleagues sang along. The footage has been released by Animal Aid campaigners and handed to the Food Standards Agency (FSA) to investigate. Slaughtermen at the Bowood Lamb abattoir in Thirsk, North Yorkshire, are allegedly seen ‘hacking and sawing’ at animals’ throats in apparent contravention of Islamic practice . Instead of praying as the sheep were killed, the Muslim workers chatted as a radio ‘blared out Christmas songs’ Secretly-placed hidden cameras were used to record practices during slaughter over a period of three days in December. Kate Fowler, head of campaigns at Animal Aid, said: ‘The vicious attacks on defenceless, frightened animals at Bowood are inexcusable. ‘All four conveyor operators we filmed over three days abused animals to varying degrees, while the slaughterers looked on unmoved.’ She added: ‘This is the 10th slaughterhouse in which we have filmed undercover, and it is the ninth to be caught breaking animal welfare laws. ‘None of the abuses we uncovered would have come to light without our cameras being in place, even though there is a Government-appointed vet at each slaughterhouse.’ The law requires abattoirs to stun animals before slaughter to prevent unnecessary suffering, but there are exemptions for Jewish and Muslim producers. Slaughtermen were filmed ‘taunting and frightening’ animals by waving knives, smacking them on the head and shouting at them. Under the halal code, animals are supposed to be killed quickly, with a single sweep of a surgically-sharp knife. They should not see the knife before they are slaughtered, or witness the death of other animals. The video footage appears to show that these rules were routinely flouted at Bowood, where more than 4,000 sheep were filmed being killed. The full dossier by the campaigners said: . Under UK law, slaughtered animals that have not been stunned must remain in position for at least 20 seconds after their throats are cut, to ensure loss of consciousness. But 86 per cent of the sheep at Bowood were moved before that amount of time had elapsed, some in as little as one second, claimed Animal Aid. It said many of the practices ‘defied expectations of what Muslims believe halal slaughter should be.’ In one horror killing, it appears that the men erupted in laughter as a sheep bled to death with green spectacles painted around its eyes . Slaughtermen wearing the traditional Muslim kufi skullcap and muttering the words 'Allahu Akbar' (God is great) were allegedly seen breaking rules in the way sheep were put down. Campaigners said they recognised the risks of stirring up anti-Muslim feeling but ‘witholding release of the footage would be a betrayal of our key mission to expose and combat animal cruelty'. A petition calling for non-stun slaughter to be banned has reached more than 105,000 signatures. Set up by organisations including the British Veterinary Association and RSPCA to improve animal welfare, it will now have to be debated by the Commons Backbench Business Committee after crossing the 100,000 threshold. Last year Prime Minister David Cameron has explicitly ruled out banning non-stun slaughter in a speech to the Israeli parliament. Kosher food also requires animals to be conscious when they are killed, although Animal Aid said no kosher meat was prepared in the Bowood Lamb slaughterhouse. Mr Cameron said last year: 'When people challenged Kosher Shechita I have defended it. I fought as a backbench Member of Parliament against the last attempt to do something to change this, and there is no way I’m allowing that to change now I’m Prime Minister – on my watch Shechita is safe in the United Kingdom.' The Muslim Council of Britain said the video was 'abhorrent' and against everything in Islam. 'Animal cruelty is wrong and criminal wherever it may occur,' a spokesman said. That it is being carried out in halal slaughter makes it even more incredulous. 'The findings certainly are abhorrent in Islamic practice, and the abattoir must be subject to the full force of the law. 'There are urgent questions this case raises: since each abattoir is under veterinarian supervision, how were these practices overlooked? We call on the Food Standards Agency to look into this abuse and the flagrant disregard of the very principles of humane slaughter as a matter of urgency.' An RSPCA spokesman said the footage from Bowood Lamb appeared to be 'absolutely shocking'. 'The public has a right to expect that all farmed animals have as painless and humane an end to their lives as possible,' she added. 'The RSPCA firmly believes CCTV in slaughterhouses can be a valuable tool to help improve animal welfare. The law requires abattoirs to stun animals before slaughter to prevent unnecessary suffering, but there are exemptions for Jewish and Muslim producers . Campaigners did not want to stir-up anti-Muslim feeling but felt withholding the footage would be a 'betrayal' 'Our concern [about non-stun slaughter] has nothing to do with the expression of religious belief but with the practice of killing by throat cutting without pre-stunning. 'We believe that meat produced from animals stunned or not stunned before slaughter should be clearly labelled to allow consumer choice.' The British Veterinary Association said the film was 'truly shocking' and blamed the government for not introducing EU regulations already used in Wales and Scotland. 'The government has delayed the introduction of the EU regulation Welfare of Animals at the Time of Killing (WATOK) which would require slaughterhouses to appoint an animal welfare officer,' a spokesman said. 'These abuses could have been prevented if a welfare officer had been present protecting the welfare of livestock. 'The BVA has long believed that slaughter without pre-stunning unnecessarily compromise animal welfare at the time of death. It affects millions of animals every year and action is long overdue.' The FSA, which regulates abattoirs, confirmed four slaughtermen have had their licences suspended and an investigation launched. A spokesman said: ‘The Food Standards Agency takes animal welfare at abattoirs very seriously which is why we immediately suspended the licences of the slaughtermen involved. ‘There is no excuse for treating animals in the way shown on the video and we are therefore investigating the footage with a view to prosecution. We are also continuing to investigate all the circumstances around the incident to ensure proper safeguards are introduced to stop this happening in the future.’ The halal market could be worth as much as £2billion a year, with more than 100 million animals killed using the method annually. A statement issued by Bowood Lamb's solicitors said: 'Bowood Lamb makes animal welfare its highest priority. We set very high standards for the way in which animals that pass through our premises are treated. 'It is highly regrettable that one of our slaughtermen fell below those standards. As soon as we were aware of this failing we dismissed this staff member for gross misconduct. 'Currently three other members of staff have had their licences suspended because Animal Aid claims that they have committed technical infringements of the regulations relating to religious slaughter. 'We will await the outcome of any investigation relating to their suspension.' The statement said the real problem was Defra rules relating to animal conveyer belts and attacked Animal Aid for 'breaking into our plant' - a claim the campaigners firmly deny. 'Bowood Lamb is surprised that Animal Aid targeted our premises, given the stated aim of their campaign is to encourage CCTV in abattoirs,' the statement said. 'Bowood Lamb has had CCTV in our premises for over four years. 'We cannot condone Animal Aid breaking into our plant and undermining the strict hygiene controls we have in place.' | Slaughtermen caught on camera 'hacking and sawing' at animals' throats .
Sheep filmed being kicked, with one worker standing on an animal's neck .
Staff laughed as a sheep bled to death with spectacles painted on its face .
'Horrifying abuse' captured by animal rights campaigners at halal abattoir .
One worker has been sacked and another three have been suspended .
The Food Standards Agency has launched an urgent investigation .
RSCPA and British Veterinary Association condemn 'shocking' footage .
100,000-strong BVA petition means slaughter will be debated in Commons .
Muslim Council of Britain: Findings are 'abhorrent in Islamic practice'
WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT .
Sheep were kicked in the face, smashed into solid objects head-first and picked up and hurled by their legs, fleeces, throats and ears .
A worker stood on the neck of a conscious sheep, then bounced up and down .
Slaughterhouse workers erupted into laughter at a sheep bleeding to death with spectacles drawn around her eyes in green paint .
A worker held a sheep by her throat and pulled back a fist as if to punch her .
Slaughtermen taunted sheep by waving knives, smacking them on the head and shouting at them .
Slaughtermen hacked away at the throats of still-conscious sheep. |
282,638 | fa15900ccaec590f9728986736477db7dad087a9 | An over-the-counter painkiller used by millions will no longer be sold in pharmacies from today, over fears that it could raise the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Diclofenac pills will now only be available with a prescription. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency said the painkilling and anti-inflammatory tablets, widely bought under the brand name Voltarol, carry a ‘small but increased’ risk of heart problems. Diclofenac, an anti-inflammatory drug, has been reclassified by the UK healthcare regulator as a prescription-only medicine after concerns it may cause heart problems for some patients . Painkilling gels that contain diclofenac will still be available over the counter, however. Diclofenac accounts for six million prescriptions, and it is thought that tens of thousands buy Voltarol directly over the counter. The pills are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are used to relieve pain caused by conditions including arthritis, gout, headaches and flu. In 2013, Oxford University researchers found high doses of NSAIDs can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. A review by European health officials confirmed the finding, and said patients should no longer use diclofenac if they have a heart condition, or have previously suffered heart attacks or strokes. Diclofenac - the active ingredient in Voltarol – offers fast relief from pain and inflammation associated with back, neck and muscle aches. It also gives short-term relief from headaches, toothache, period pain and cold and flu symptoms. It blocks a substance in the body called cyclo-oxygenase, which produces chemicals in response to injury – causing pain, swelling and inflammation. In 2013, a major Oxford University study found that for every 1,000 people with a moderate risk of heart disease taking 150mg a day for a year, about three would experience an avoidable heart attack, of which one would be fatal. Diclofenac can also cause serious side-effects in the gut, such as ulceration, bleeding or perforation of the stomach or intestinal lining. The MHRA’s Commission on Human Medicines concluded that these side-effects could ‘not be ruled out’ even at lower doses, or when diclofenac is taken for a short time. Pills containing diclofenac remain available over the counter in many other countries, including Germany, Italy and Australia. However, the MHRA’s Sarah Branch said: ‘Diclofenac is associated with a small but increased risk of serious cardiac side effects in some patients, particularly if used at high doses and for long-term treatment. Because of this, the Commission on Human Medicines has advised that patients need to have a medical review before taking oral diclofenac to make sure it is suitable for them. ‘If patients have recently bought diclofenac tablets and continue to need pain relief they should talk to their pharmacist about suitable alternative treatments.’ Dr Branch said those prescribed diclofenac by a doctor should continue to take their medicine as instructed, as their medical history has already been assessed. Dr Phil Berry, head of clinical safety at Voltarol manufacturer Novartis, warned: ‘Those who want to continue taking oral diclofenac are now going to have to go to their GP which, in view of the current situation in the UK with A&E, is worrying.’ Six million prescriptions were written for diclofenac last year and the drug is also available over the counter in lower dose Voltarol tablets and cream . | Diclofenac, an anti-inflammatory drug, has been reclassified .
Is used by millions for conditions such as back pain, arthritis and gout .
But there were fears the drug could also cause heart problems .
Has now been re-classified and will only be available on prescription . |
189,732 | 81b1bdc2d94488ac4c90e135ece8726190f0282b | By . Sarah Michael for Daily Mail Australia . Ted Smith thinks it was fate that first brought him to Tukurua. He started renting a room at the sprawling beachfront estate in Cottesloe, Perth in the 1970s and struck up a great friendship with its owner, Dorothea Cass, and for years he helped her take care of the 5000 sq m property and gardens. When Miss Cass died in 1994 she had never married or had children and she left the entire heritage-listed estate to him. Now he's put it on the market and the iconic property is set to sell for more than $50 million. Mr Smith, now 80, has been taking care of the property on his own for two decades and he's ready to move on. Ted Smith, 80, is set to make more than $50 million when he sells the historic Tukurua mansion on the beachfront in Cottesloe, Perth . The property's previous owner Dorothea Cass, pictured right with Mr Smith in the 1980s, left the historic mansion to him when she died in 1994 . Real Estate agent Frank Torre said the property had had a lot of interest from Chinese and local investors . 'I've been here for 43 years so I think it's time to down size,' Mr Smith told Daily Mail Australia. Mr Smith, who was born in Ireland in 1934, moved into the house aged 37. He had moved to Australia some years earlier because he suffered from emphysema and asthma and wanted to be in a warmer, drier climate. 'I never got married because I left Ireland and I was in very poor health and that's why I came to Australia,' he said. He spent time in various parts of WA working in agriculture and catering while also trading shares on the side, but in 1971 he wanted to get more involved in the share market so he moved back to Perth and got a job in the old Swan Brewery's share registry. Mr Smith started renting a room at the sprawling beachfront estate in Cottesloe, Perth in the 1970s and struck up a great friendship with Miss Cass . For 23 years Mr Smith helped Miss Cass take care of the sprawling gardens and do repairs around the estate . At the same time he moved into Tukurua, leasing a room off Miss Cass, who was about 63 at the time. Miss Cass had inherited the property from her parents Berry and Catherine Cass, who ran the property as a boarding house and military headquarters throughout World War II. Heritage listing documents state that when the property passed to Miss Cass in 1943 'a condition of inheritance was that Miss Cass did not marry'. Mr Smith said he wasn't sure it that was true. 'I don't know about that, she never told me,' he said. 'But I've heard that rumour… rumours can be good and bad. She never did get married.' Mr Smith says it's time for him to downsize from the sprawling property . The property at 1-9 Rosendo Street, Cottesloe is 5001 sq m and has had a lot of interest from Chinese and local investors . Mr Smith spent six years and more than $5 million restoring Tukurua . After Mr Smith moved in the pair soon struck up a friendship. He was studying metaphysics at night school and Miss Cass, one of the first women in WA to get a university degree, loved talking about religion. 'That's where Dorothea and I had a bond, she was very interested in religious studies and metaphysics and I was too,' he said. 'It was a very interesting time, she was very, very well-educated and very qualified in English. 'So that was a bond for us both. We had a lot of discussion in the evenings and at weekends.' Miss Cass (pictured left aged 18) was one of the first women in WA to graduate from university. Pictured right is her UWA Bachelor of Arts certificate from 1945 . Tukurua is of great cultural significance to WA, as it was built in 1896 by WA's first attorney general Sir Septimus Burt to be his holiday home . Humble beginnings: This is how the property looked before extensive restoration . When Alan Bond purchased the Swan Brewery in 1981 Mr Smith stopped working there, but continued trading shares as well as helping Miss Cass with the upkeep of the estate. 'After the brewery I did share trading and as time went on, when Dorothea got more feeble, there was more to be done as far as minding the property and doing repairs,' he said. 'And of course with 5000 sq m it's quite a large piece of land and there were always things to do, repairs to be done.' Miss Cass moved into a nursing home in 1993, and Mr Smith stayed to take care of Tukurua. Miss Cass had inherited the property from her parents Berry and Catherine Cass, who ran the property as a boarding house and military headquarters throughout World War II . Heritage listing documents state that when the property passed to Miss Cass in 1943 'a condition of inheritance was that Miss Cass did not marry' When she died the next year, aged 86, she left the entire property to him, which he said was a 'big surprise' and something he only found out Miss Cass was planning to do very late in her life. 'Because, like us all, she couldn't take it with her,' he said. 'And because she trusted me and she always recognised that I was good with finances and I didn't squander money and I didn't drink alcohol.' In 1994 it was valued at $4 million. Now, it is set to sell for well over $50 million. Mr Smith spent six years between 2003 and 2009 restoring the historic property at a cost of more than $5 million. Mr Smith, who was born in Ireland in 1934, moved into the house aged 37. He and Miss Cass, then aged about 64, soon struck up a friendship . Miss Cass moved into a nursing home in 1993, and Mr Smith stayed to take care of Tukurua. When she died the next year, aged 84, she left the entire property to him . Tukurua is of great cultural significance to WA, as it was built in 1896 by WA's first attorney general Sir Septimus Burt to be his holiday home. 'I didn't have any option, the house was in very, very bad disrepair,' Mr Smith said of the restoration. 'I started with the roof which was in appalling condition and we had put a whole new roof on and then we couldn't stop, one thing led to another. 'I didn't start out with the intention of a complete rebuild but it went on and on and on.' At the time it was valued at $4 million. Now, it is set to sell for well over $50 million . When Mr Smith moves out after 43 years he hopes to find a place to live nearby in Cottesloe with a big garden . Mr Smith said there were lots of different things that could happen to the house when it sold – including it being broken up into 10 separate blocks of land and developed. 'Definitely there are lots of options and it could be a beautiful home for some wealthy people or it could be developed with quite a lot of apartments, all depending on who the buyer is,' he said. 'I can't control that aspect when it's out of my hands but it would be very nice to see say a wealthy family and big family, hopefully, having a very beautiful home.' When Mr Smith moves out after 43 years he hopes to find a place to live nearby in Cottesloe with a big garden. 'I live a very simple, humble life and I like it that way because too many people are making too much noise,' he said. 'I like to study and read and listen to classical music, which Dorothea liked very much too.' | Ted Smith, 80, started renting a room at Tukurua in Cottesloe in the 1970s .
He struck up a friendship with its owner and did the gardening and repairs .
Owner Dorothea Cass had no husband or children and left the sprawling beachfront estate to Mr Smith when she died in 1994 .
Mr Smith is now selling the property and it is expected to fetch $50 million . |
252,742 | d3136741f423dee42b71b615f98a9debcbc94c17 | New York (CNN) -- New York City already had the highest cigarette taxes in the nation, and a new state law that went in to effect Thursday pushed the price of smoking even higher. The state legislature on Monday approved a bill adding an additional state tax of $1.60 to every pack. The bill, which was signed into law by Gov. David Paterson, raised the state tax to a total of $4.35 per pack. New York City smokers pay an additional municipal tax of $1.50 per pack, so the new tax increase means that smokers in the city will pay $5.85 per pack in taxes. That drives the average local retail price up to nearly $11 per pack, according to some estimates. And it makes for the highest state-local tax whammy on tobacco in the country, according to the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. Chicago is the runner-up at $3.66 per pack in taxes, according to the organization. "I am about to quit because it's getting ridiculous -- who can afford this?" Coney Island resident Louis Torres, 24, said in response to Thursday's new per-pack price tag. And that's just the kind of response anti-tobacco groups are hoping for. But for some New Yorkers, the elevated prices are not as important. When asked whether he would continue to buy cigarettes Jason Mallor, 40, said, "Probably. We're all puppets here." He said he has been smoking for 20 years. Carrie Thompson, 28, reacted to the new price tag by saying, "I should quit now ... I get that cigarettes are bad. I don't understand why they are so expensive here, we're in the most expensive city." The tax hike is aimed at generating an additional $440 million in 2010-2011 tax revenue to support health care programs. David Sutton, a spokesman for Altria Group, parent company for tobacco company Philip Morris, said he was "extremely disappointed" with the increase that makes New York's cigarette tax "far and away the highest in the nation." "This huge tax increase will make the present contraband cigarette crisis in New York State much worse," he said in a recent e-mail to CNNMoney.com. "And it will likely not raise the revenue projected, as it will provide even greater incentives for consumers to purchase contraband cigarettes to avoid paying these extremely high taxes and will cause further loss of business to New York retailers selling state-taxed cigarettes." -- CNN's Monika Plocienniczak contributed to this report. | New state law adds additional tax $1.60 per pack to existing state tax .
New York City also has tax of $1.50 per pack .
Smokers in the city now paying $5.85 per pack in state and local taxes .
State hopes to raise revenue; tobacco industry fears price hike will drive smokers to black market . |
276,083 | f1b4c446dec18adfa7c764cf773939e1abb93415 | By . Rebecca English . PUBLISHED: . 05:12 EST, 15 September 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 17:07 EST, 15 September 2012 . The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge had a chance today to forget for a little while the furore surrounding the topless pictures taken of her. The royal couple visited a rainforest in Borneo and enjoyed the high life - by being hoisted up a 130ft rainforest tree by ropes and walking along a 300-metre long canopy bridge. Kate joked: 'I'm going to go "whee" and fly the way up.' William and Kate toured the Danum Valley research centre in Sabah, one of the two States that make up the Malaysian part of Borneo. Scroll down for video . High life: The couple were today hoisted up a 130ft tree in the rainforest in Sabah, Borneo . Smiling: The couple look confident as ropes attached their harnesses lift them up the rainforest tree . Panoramic view: William and Kate dangle from their harness with the Borneo rainforest below them . They arrived from Kota Kinabalu by helicopter on a flight which saw them take in spectacular views of the Imbak Canyon and the Maliau Basin, which is famous for its seven-tier waterfall. While her outfits on the tour have so far have included designs by Alexander McQueen, Erdem and Alice Temperley, the Duchess was dressed for the jungle in slim-cut beige jeans and a plaited brown leather belt, sturdy walking boots and a sheer green blouse over a black t-shirt. She saw at first hand the conservation work of the Royal Society, of which the Duke is a fellow. It carries out world renowned research on the impact of deforestation. High-level corruption has been blamed for the destruction of the rainforests which have been turned into oil palm plantations because of continuous logging. Less than 4 per cent of forest remains in Sabah despite the efforts of the Royal Society. Strolling on the canopy: William holds onto the wire fence as he follows Kate on the walkway . Treetop: William and Kate talk to a rainforest official after being hauled up by ropes . Jungle king and queen: Kate and William after crossing the canopy to a small wooden balcony overlooking the forest . Are we that far up? William and Kate look down from a 300-metre long canopy walkway . Don't look down: : William strolls along the canopy bridge high above the rainforest as Kate follows him with a glimpse below . Having fun: Kate jokes with William on the second stop of their nine-day tour . Tengku Adlin, a Malaysian prince who previously accompanied Prince Philip in a helicopter flight over the rainforest when he visited the region in 1972, also flew with the couple. He said: 'They enjoyed it immensely, they asked lots of questions about primates, birds and insects, and Kate was taking a lot of photos.' On arriving at the field centre, the couple attended a short briefing with a group of Malaysian and British scientists, including Dr Glen Reynolds, the director of the Royal Society’s South East Asia research programme, which explores the impact of deforestation in the region and Dr Owen Lewis from Oxford University. They were then fitted with special harnesses and helmets in a private room before being hoisted 42 metres up into a giant parashorea tomentella tree. Officials used a 'counterweight pulley system' which had been set by rope access technicians to their combined weight, believed to be 150kg. Relaxing: William and Kate walk through the rainforest in Sabah which has been destroyed by logging . On tour: William and Kate prepare to set off on their walk of the rainforest . Guided tour: A stern-looking William stares ahead as officials explain to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge the conservation work being done in the rainforest . As they waited in their harnesses at . the base of the tree, the Duke looked at his wife and quipped: 'Girls . don’t have the same wardrobe malfunctions as men do. ' I hope I don’t have any wardrobe . malfunctions.' He also added: "It's not quite as impressive as the . Shard. When Dr Reynolds joked: 'Size isn't everything,' the Duke . responded: 'That's true.' The Duchess, appearing somewhat . apprehensive as she looked upwards at her route of ascent into the . jungle canopy, said: 'I’m going to go “whee” and just fly up.' Simon Amos, the rope access technician who oversaw their ascent up the tree, said: “It’s the closest anyone will ever get to time travel. 'What they are seeing is exactly what it would have looked like 150 million years ago as there has never been an ice age here. It is as if time stood still.” Ready for action: William and kate laughed and joked as they toured the rainforest . Casual look: No designer dresses for Kate who wore tight-fitting jeans with a leather belt and green shirt . Suspended in the air, with sweeping views over the top of the jungle canopy, they were greeted up the tree by Kalsum Yusah, 32, from Sabah, who completed a PhD in entomology at Cambridge University two years ago and is now based at the field centre. Miss Yusah said: “They just said it was such a surreal, totally unique experience up there because they had never been up in the canopy. “They enjoyed it immensely and they weren’t scared of the heights. They asked about the primates, birds and insects and they were interested in how the forest is sustained. “They enjoyed it because it gets them into the midst of the canopy, where there’s nothing much else going on.” After spending around 10 minutes up in the air, they were lowered back down to the ground, with wide smiles, clearly stunned by what they had seen. The Duke said: 'That was amazing.' Goodbye: Kate waves to the crowds at Lahad Datu airport before the royal couple depart after their visit . 'That was rather surreal, wasn’t it?' said the Duchess. 'It was amazing, such a treat, really brilliant to be up there. I could have stayed up there for hours, even though there were a lot of ants.” The Duke wryly joked that even high up in the jungle canopy, he could not escape a photographer who had been positioned high up in an adjacent tree. 'We saw a spy in a tree,' he said, before thanking the rope technicians: 'Thank you for keeping us safe, that was super.' The couple then took a jungle walk with Dr Reynolds, who had offered them the use of 'leech socks', which the Duke and Duchess politely declined. 'Apparently they didn’t pass the sartorial test,' said Dr Reynolds. But moments later, the Duchess may have wished she had taken Dr Reynolds up on his offer, as a jungle leech attached itself to her leg. 'She dealt with it very calmly and just bent down and picked it off.' The Duke and Duchess then visited the field centre’s laboratory, where they met with representatives and academics from Raleigh International, the Earthwatch NGO, and Oxford University. Wild in the jungle: An Orang-Utan is seen near the tree William and Kate were hoisted up by forest conservationists . Speaking to a group of academics and students in the laboratory about their research, the Duchess was told of how the region’s rainforest is believed to be the oldest in the world, and is home to the world’s largest natural Orang-Utan population and rare species including the clouded leopard, Macaque monkies and the Borneo pygmie elephant. Staking up: Closer magazines displayed at the the company's headquarter, in Montrouge, near to Paris . The Duke asked: “Are Orang-Utans quite social animals? Do they have big families or are they solitary?” The Duchess was also inquisitive about their mating habits, asking: 'Do they have any young at the moment? We’re very jealous [when the scientists said often see them]. We still haven’t managed to see one.' The couple also looked at a selection of pressed jungle flowers and leaves. 'Do you press the leaves here yourself?' said the Duchess. Her husband then joked: 'She’ll now ask you all about how you do it – she’s very arty.' In an attempt to enjoy some much-needed privacy, the Duke and Duchess then retired privately to the lodge for the afternoon, where they were served an eight-course lunch of Sabah delicacies including fern salad with coconut and chicken soup cooked in sweet traditional local rice wine. After lunch, much to their delight, they were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of an Orang-Utan family, a mother, father and their baby, while with a guide from the lodge. The couple have vowed not to let . the furore over a magazine's decision to publish topless pictures of the . Duchess derail their nine-day Diamond Jubilee tour of South East Asia and the South Pacific. The say they are determined to press ahead . with their high profile visit. A source close to William and Kate, said they felt . intense anger and disappointment at what had happened but believed very . strongly that the tour was far too important to British interests abroad to be . allowed to suffer. 'The Duke and Duchess are hugely disappointed by what has . happened but both feel very strongly that it should be business as usual,' the . source said. 'They feel it has been a great success so far and have . thoroughly enjoyed the places they have visited and the people they have met. 'Even yesterday, when they were reeling from the shock of . what happened, their smiles were entirely genuine. 'They are determined to press ahead and that it should be . business as usual.' Last night the couple launched a legal action in the . French courts against Closer magazine for what they described as a 'grotesque' and 'unjustifiable' breach of their privacy. VIDEO: Will and Kate take to the trees in Borneo . | Duke and Duchess hauled up by ropes then walk along 300 metre bridge .
'I hope I don't have a wardrobe malfunction', jokes the Duke .
Couple determined that topless pictures furore won't derail tour . |
134,447 | 39ded328bd8d854748cf97ade87ef4a63ccfed6f | A married mother-of-two has been charged with multiple counts of rape after admitting to having a sexual relationship with one of her teenage daughter's male friends. Heather Salines, 38, has entered a not guilty plea to the six counts of aggravated rape after she admitted to having sex with a 15-year-old boy. She also sent the boy, whose name has not been revealed because of the nature of the crimes, nude selfies which ended up leading to her arrest. Apologized: Heather Salines, 38, admitted that 'things spiraled out of control' but entered a not guilty plea against the six charges of aggravated rape that she faces . The investigation into the case began when a student at Belmonte Middle School in Saugus, Massachusetts reported that the boy was showing off the naked pictures that Salines had sent him. The Boston Herald reports that the boy told police he had previously had sex with Salines and they had exchanged naked photos. She was later questioned by authorities and admitted that they had sex on a number of occasions but the exact number of sexual encounters has not been revealed. Salines said she had met the boy two months before they became intimate, and he had told her about the personal turmoil he went through after 'he lost his mother at a young age'. 'When I looked at him, he did not act like a 15-year-old... he acted like a grown man,' she said. At one point early in the illegal . relationship, he was alone at her house and they 'were kissing and that . she was touching him over his clothing'. Connection: She had met the boy, who was friends with her teenage daughter, two months before they started having a sexual relationship and he told her how he struggled when he lost his mom at a young age . 'Things spiraled out of control,' Salem News reports, citing the charging documents. They first had sex in a car in the parking lot of a Saugus-area park on March 17. The Boston Herald reports that she pointed the finger at the boy for taking the trysts to the next level, saying that he was the one to suggest they get a hotel room since there was always the threat that her daughter could walk in on them when they were at the house. The boy was friends with Salines' teenage daughter but the age and sex of her other child are unknown. Salines and the boy booked a room at the local DoubleTree hotel on March 19, two days after their coupling. 'She said they became close, and she developed feelings that she was not proud of,' the police report states, according to the Salem News. Tryst: The first time Salines and the boy had sex was in a parked car and the second time was in this DoubleTree hotel near their hometown of Saugus, Massachusetts . 'She said she tried to renege but that one thing led to another.' Salines now faces six counts of aggravated rape and abuse of a child, one charge of child enticement and one charge of disseminating obscene material to a minor. The aggravated rape charges are by far the most serious, as the mandatory minimum for each count carries a 10 year prison sentence, meaning that she could face 60 years behind bars if she is found guilty. She has been indicted by a grand jury and appeared in court on Thursday in Salem to enter her not guilty plea. Salines was accompanied by her lawyer and a man that would only identify himself as a family member. That relative told the Salem News that she 'has the full support of her family'. | Heather Salines has been charged with six counts of aggravated rape after admitting to a sexual affair with a 15-year-old boy .
She entered a not guilty plea for all of the charges even though she said that 'things spiraled out of control'
'When I looked at him, he did not act like a 15-year-old,' she told police .
Administrators at his middle school launched the investigation after another student reported that the boy was showing naked selfies she sent . |
146,071 | 48e0862048f92a4f430e249532abaf84b5d1c889 | By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 10:13 EST, 30 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 10:30 EST, 30 January 2014 . These dramatic images show the moment a six-year-old boy tried to climb to his fifth floor home - but then became stuck on a building ledge 60ft above the ground. The boy attempted the climb after getting locked out of his home in Suining, southwest China's Sichuan Province. But when he reached the sixth floor roof ledge just above his apartment, the boy became stuck. Trapped: A six-year-old boy is pictured stuck on a building ledge 60ft above the ground after he tried to climb to his home on the 5th floor in Suining, China . Don't look down: The young boy can be seen standing up against the wall on the ledge as he waits for people to come to his aid . He was spotted shivering on the slim ledge, with his back pressed tightly against the building, by concerned neighbours who called emergency services. Firefighters arrived at the scene and one officer had to climb out on to the ledge to reach the boy. He then managed to pull him to safety. Rescue: A firefighter was forced to also climb down to the ledge to reach the trapped boy . The six-year-old boy is pulled to safety on to the roof of the building in southwest China's Sichuan Province . | The boy was locked out of his home in Suining, Sichuan Province, China .
He intended to climb through a window but got stuck on a ledge 60ft up .
Neighbours spotted the boy shivering on the tiny ledge on Monday .
Firefighters attended the scene and managed to pull the boy to safety . |
244,305 | c82d769695c31028f86184520edcef9aad4fc335 | By . Harriet Arkell . PUBLISHED: . 05:00 EST, 10 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 13:06 EST, 10 December 2013 . A 13-month old boy died from internal bleeding after swallowing a battery, an inquest heard. Wsam Noorwali was rushed to hospital when his parents found him vomiting blood at their home in Hamilton, Leicester. Just under nine hours later he was pronounced dead, and a post-mortem examination revealed a three-volt disc battery the size of a 2p piece in the toddler’s stomach. At an inquest into the little boy's . death at Leicester Town Hall, his father Ammar, 32, said he believed the . child had swallowed the battery at the nursery he attended in the city. Wsam Noorwali, 13 months, pictured with his parents Fatima and Ammar, died after swallowing a battery . Beloved son: Little Wsam was taken ill at home - his father saw him vomiting blood at their home in Leicester . Mr Noorwali said he found his son in pain on the evening on 18 August last year. He said: 'At about 10pm, the family was downstairs in the living room. I went upstairs to go to the toilet and Wsam must have crawled up after me. 'When I left the bathroom, I heard him crying and saw him at the door to my bedroom. 'I saw him vomit blood.' Mr Noorwali, a PhD researcher at Leicester De Montfort University, took Wsam in his car, with wife Fatima and their other son, to the city’s Royal Infirmary hospital. The hearing was told Wsam was assessed by a doctor at the children’s emergency department before being moved to a ward. His condition at first improved, but at 2.30am and 4am, he suffered further bouts of vomiting. The youngster was given a blood . transfusion and transferred to the children’s intensive care unit, where . his condition deteriorated. The little boy may have picked up the battery at the nursery he attended, his father Ammar told an inquest . Wsam''s parents described their toddler as a 'wonderful', 'happy' boy who was 'always smiling' He was given another blood . transfusion, but doctors said he was too weak for an emergency . operation. Wsam’s heart stopped and medical staff were unable to revive . him. Mr . Noorwali said: 'We were asked to go outside but a while later I saw . doctors and medical staff run past us into the emergency unit.' He added medics tried and tried to save Wsam but after an hour they told him his son had died. Mr . Noorwali told the inquest he was convinced his son had swallowed . something and pleaded with doctors to investigate, but to no avail. He said: 'I told them I thought he may have swallowed something which was stuck in his throat, but the doctor said "We need to cure him first, leave it to me". Mrs Noorwali said at one point her husband was so angry he was warned about his behaviour. 'I told them I thought he may have swallowed something which was stuck in his throat but the doctor said "We need to cure him first, leave it to me".' - Ammar Noorwali, 32, Wsam's father . 'One doctor said to my husband "If you continue to behave like this we are going to call security",' she said. Mr Noorwali said they did not see Wsam swallow anything in the days before his death - but added he was prone to putting things in his mouth. He ruled out the battery coming from the family home and said he suspected Wsam could have swallowed it at the nursery he attended in Leicester. He told the inquest a member of staff told him they had once found Wsam playing with rubbish in the office bin. Wsam Noorwali died in August last year, nine hours after his parents rushed to hospital . Wsam's family believes he may have swallowed the battery at the nursery he attended (pictured) James Stafford, owner of the nursery, . which was not named during the hearing, said it was not possible Wsam . could have been playing with rubbish because the door was always closed . and the office always attended. He said none of the toys in the playroom had disc batteries. Dr Roger Malcomson, who carried out the post-mortem examination on Wsam, said he found a three-volt disc battery 'corroded at the edges' which was the size of a 2p piece in the boy’s stomach. Dr Malcomson said he found evidence of extensive bleeding in the stomach, with burning and tissue damage to Wsam’s gullet which suggested the battery could have been stuck there for several days. He told the hearing the vomiting fit could have dislodged the battery, causing it to pass into the stomach, where it would have caused the damage it did in a few hours. The inquest continues. Outside the inquest, Mr Noorwali said: 'Wsam was a wonderful boy. He was playing all the time and seemed so happy. 'He was always smiling and loved playing with his older brother. He was just starting to walk and talk and we miss him very much.' He added: 'It has been a very difficult 16 months.' Sorry we are unable to accept comments for legal reasons. | Wsam Noorwali began vomiting blood at his home in Hamilton, Leicester .
His father Ammar, 32, took the 13-month-old to the city's Royal Infirmary .
Wsam died nine hours later and post-mortem showed battery in stomach .
Mr Noorwali said it wasn't from their home and must be from boy's nursery .
Inquest at Leicester Town Hall heard battery may have been there for days . |
65,275 | b95a0e98786fad9e706cd76d7314d45a09064cef | A jilted ex-boyfriend tried to kill his former partner by setting fire to her home after she refused to take him back when he sent her flowers and a card, a court heard. Gary Griffiths, 44, is accused of pouring petrol through the letterbox of ex-girlfriend Tracey Powell's home in Brownhills, West Midlands, the day after his attempts to win her back failed. Wolverhampton Crown Court heard today how Griffiths was caught on CCTV near to her home after the fire broke out in the early hours of March 4 this year. Prior to the blaze, he allegedly sent a text to Miss Powell, a teacher, saying: 'Goodbye Tracey'. Gary Griffiths, 44, is accused of pouring petrol through the letterbox of ex-girlfriend Tracey Powell's home in Brownhills, West Midlands (centre), the day after his attempts to win her back with flowers and cards failed . The court heard she had just dumped Griffiths after a two-month relationship but they had remained in contact. She said: 'He wasn't that happy and said he was annoyed about the fact that we were not seeing each other.' Miss Powell told the jury she was woken up by calls to her work and private mobile phones shortly before the fire broke out but ignored them when she recognised Griffiths' number. As well as the 'Goodbye Tracey' text, she also claims he sent her a message to say she should take her pet dog 'Becks' with her to work and that 'the fire starters are going to burn down' the street. She managed to escape the blaze after calling 999. She said: 'I was shocked and thought it was a bit aggressive. Literally as I read it I realised something was going on outside. 'I heard a noise like a clunk or like something shutting. 'I looked outside and I saw something like hazard lights. 'Instinctively I opened the window and I saw him and saw flames from the footpath below the window. The flames were at the front door. Wolverhampton Crown Court (above) heard today how Griffiths was caught on CCTV nearby after the fire broke out in the early hours of March 4 this year. He denies attempted murder and arson with intent to endanger life . 'I asked him, "what are you doing?" 'He said, "I told you not to upset me". There was a lot of thick black smoke at the time. I called 999. 'I could smell smoke and burning and the petrol smell was really strong.' Firefighters arrived and extinguished the fire which caused damage to Miss Powell's front door and smoke damage to her home. Griffiths denies attempted murder and arson with intent to endanger life. However, he has admitted a further charge of arson being reckless as to whether life is endangered. The trial continues. | Gary Griffiths, 44, allegedly set fire to ex-girlfriend Tracey Powell's home .
Allegedly started blaze after she refused to take him back following split .
Court heard he sent her text saying 'Goodbye, Tracey' before fire broke out .
Griffiths denies attempted murder and arson with intent - the trial continues . |
214,904 | a238cc77908b469829fbf100221d56fb6748f93f | By . Jonathan O'Callaghan . What’s the secret to being confident? Some people believe it's having a positive mental attitude, while others claim it's being wealthy. But according to one researcher, the answer may in fact lie in what we’re wearing. Professor Karen Pine from the University of Hertfordshire said that specific clothing - including even superhero T-shirts - can make people more confident in all sorts of situations. A new book by Professor Karen Pine from the University of Hertfordshire suggests that what you wear can boost or lower your self-esteem. She asked students in groups to wear Superman clothing and found they were more confident both mentally and physically (stock image shown) The research is outlined in her new book Mind What You Wear. In the book she claims clothing affects a person’s mental processes and perceptions. Yesterday car manufacturer Kia revealed their own separate survey into what makes people confident for the launch of their revamped Kia Soul car: . Women . 1. A new haircut2. A sunny day3. Walking in heels4. Learning a new skill5. Booking a holiday6. Shaved legs7. Lipstick8. Glowing tan9. Little black dress10. Designer perfume . Men . 1. A sunny day2. Freshly shaved face3. A new suit4. Freshly brushed teeth5. A nice smelling aftershave6. Being praised at work7. A new hair cut8. Sleeping in freshly washed sheets9. Learning a new skill10. Someone agreeing to go on a date . And ultimately, what you wear could discern how confident you feel about yourself. 'We know our clothes affect other people's impressions of us,' Professor Pine told the MailOnline. 'Now research shows what we wear affects us too. 'Putting on different clothes creates different thoughts and mental processes. 'My book aims to make people more aware of this, to understand how changing their clothes can change their mood and their thoughts.' In the study, she gathered a group of students and asked some to wear a superman T-shirt. She wanted to know if heroic clothing would change how students thought. Surprisingly, she found that not only did it make them more confident, but it also made them actually think they were physically stronger. ‘When wearing a Superman T-shirt the students rated themselves as more likeable and superior to other students,’ she explained in a release from the University of Hertfordshire. ‘When asked to estimate how much they could physically lift, those in a Superman T-shirt thought they were stronger than students in a plain T-shirt, or in their own clothing.’ It wasn’t just superhero clothing that affected a person’s state of mind, though. In another test, women were ask to do a maths test in a swimsuit or wearing a sweater, with the latter group performing better. Wearing a white coat, meanwhile, was found to improve a person’s mental agility. And in the book she claims when women are stressed, they neglect 90 per cent of their wardrobe, choosing to dress up only to feel confident. In addition to scientific research, Professor Pine said she also has ‘tips on how to feel happier and more confident with the right clothes, explaining not only that we are what we wear, but that we become what we wear.’ Professor Pine's research suggests people should be more careful when picking out what clothes they plan to wear. In tests she found women performed worse in maths tests when wearing a swimsuit, while people in general had better mental agility when wearing a white coat . | Professor Karen Pine researched how a person's attire affects confidence .
She found students were more assured when wearing a Superman t-shirt .
And women performed worse in a maths test when donning a swimsuit .
This and other research appears in her new book Mind What You Wear .
She concludes that the right or wrong clothes can affect your attitude . |
116,419 | 22434e76488a12fc0ee118109b0280bdcded03d2 | By . Tara Brady . PUBLISHED: . 06:57 EST, 16 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 07:41 EST, 16 May 2013 . He's probably got the best job in the world - meet the man paid to drink Carlsberg for a living. Dane Morten Ibsen gets to drink five free pints a week as the lager giant's official taste tester. The 43-year-old works at the famous company whose advertising slogan used to be it 'was probably the best lager in the world'. Best job in the world: Dane Morten Ibsen gets to drink five free pints a week as the official taste tester . At Carlsberg HQ, in Copenhagen, Denmark, Morten is in charge of testing barrel as well as packaged beer. Mr Morten said: 'From a quality point of view I am checking for off-flavours and securing the wanted flavour profile is present. 'We also do chemical and microbiological tests to secure and manage quality. 'A perfect pint of Carlsberg should taste fresh and slightly fruity with apples, lightly malty and with a perfect balance between body and a bitter finish.' New job: Morten Ibsen is pictured inspecting a bottle of Carlsberg Export . Drinking on the job: Morten is in charge of testing barrel as well as packaged beer . If Carlsberg did jobs: Dane Morten now works at the famous beer company in Denmark . The Carlsberg Group produce 36 billion bottles of beer a year to 150 countries round the world. Its global slogan is now 'That calls for a Carlsberg'. Morten said he was honoured to carry on the tradition of Carlsberg founder J C Jacobsen. He said: 'I am proud to pick up the torch and carry on J C Jacobsen's unlimited dedication to delicious beer. 'I started as a brewmaster trainee in 1996 and have been in the top position around four years now. 'I take pride in heading the best brewery of Carlsberg in the original historic surroundings in Copenhagen, and in creating growth, being innovative and matching beer and food.' The Carlsberg Group produce 36 billion bottles of beer a year to 150 countries round the world . Top job: The Carlsberg Brewery in Copenhagen, Denmark, where the world famous lager is made . | Morten Ibsen has been given the job of Carlsberg's official taste tester .
The 43-year-old is now in charge of testing barrel and packaged lager . |
62,215 | b0c0c21274699f9367046859801ef11db16d5e4c | By . Ollie Gillman for MailOnline . A British businessman has raised thousands of pounds to rescue a neglected tiger from a zoo in Greece. David Barnes, who runs a bookshop in Uppingham, Leicestershire, has almost raised the £11,500 needed to save the 485lb tiger, called Phevos, from the cash-strapped zoo in the town of Trikala. Phevos, who is 15 years old, has been alone in his enclosure since March, when his long-time companion Athena died after an infected wound on her paw went untreated. Scroll down for video . Phevos, a 485lb 15-year-old tiger, was moved to Trikala zoo, in north-west Greece in 2001 after being rescued from an Italian travelling circus . After the financial crisis in Greece, he has received less care. Earlier this year his long-time partner, Athena, died after an infected wound on her paw went untreated . The tiger was rescued from a travelling Italian circus by the Greek authorities in 2001, and was taken to Trikala zoo, in the north-west of the country. However, following the financial crisis, the condition of the zoo has deteriorated, leaving Phevos alone and in a 'poor' enclosure. Since then David Barnes, who used to work for the Animal Welfare Fund in Greece and has re-homed dozens of exotic animals in the past 20 years, has been trying to find a new home for the tiger. After months of fundraising, Mr Barnes, 62, has managed to get the money together to move Phevos to a sanctuary near San Diego, California. He said: 'When Phevos and Athena arrived at the zoo, the enclosure was not very good and I persuaded them to build a new one and things were going well. 'Then ... the financial crisis hit Greece and after that things changed.' Former RSPCA inspector David Barnes, who runs a bookshop in Leicestershire, has raised nearly £11,500 - enough to move Phevos from the Greek zoo to an enclosure in San Diego, California . Former RSPCA inspector Mr Barnes lost track of the situation after having to undergo his second heart bypass operation. He added: 'I got a phone call saying I should go and see Athena who was bleeding from a wound in her paw which had become infected. She died under anaesthetic.' Mr Barnes swung into action and set up a fundraising website to spare Phevos a similar fate by raising £11,500 to transfer him to a sanctuary for lions, tigers and bears near San Diego, in California. He added: 'Phevos is still in Greece but he is being checked on frequently by a vet friend and so far he is OK. 'I have raised just over £10,400 so just £1,100 to go. Whatever I'm short of will go on my credit card.' He is now awaiting the paperwork to allow Phevos to be flown to California via Frankfurt, in Germany. He added: 'I started applying to carry out the move in April and I'm hoping to go next month. It's the biggest and most challenging thing I've done. 'I will stay with him throughout the trip, he knows me very well, I am able to feed him and stroke him in his enclosure. 'I want him to go soon and start his new life, I know he'll be in good hands as the sanctuary he's going to was recommended to me by a vet. 'There's a 16-year-old female in the enclosure next to him where he's going, I hope they might get to like each other.' Mr Barnes, who has a 23-year-old Greek cat, Naomi, which he calls his 'own little tiger,' said he was very grateful to everyone who responded to the appeal and helping with his mission to re-home Phevos. To donate email [email protected] . | David Barnes has almost raised £11,500 to rescue a tiger from a Greek zoo .
Phevos, a 485lb 15-year-old tiger, has been alone in enclosure for months .
His long-term partner died after infected wound on her paw went untreated .
The money will pay to move Phevos to a special enclosure in California . |
212,205 | 9eca57eb48ec1ab49119861cfd242b7d6c57d970 | The former club of rapist footballer Ched Evans is split over whether the £3million striker should be re-signed, it has been claimed. Sheffield United last week denied rumours the striker was set to be offered a new two-year contract worth £500,000 following his release from prison - but admitted they were continuing to 'deliberate' on a decision. But this morning it has been reported that the club's board are split over whether to let the disgraced Welsh striker play for them again. Ched Evans, left in his police mugshot and right this week after his release, maintains he was innocent. His old club Sheffield United are continuing to 'deliberate' over whether he should play for them again . The 25-year-old left Wymott Prison last Friday having served half of a five-year sentence. He has maintained his innocence despite being found guilty of raping a 19-year-old woman in his home town of Rhyl, North Wales, insisting it was ‘consensual and not rape’. The Sun quotes a source as saying: 'Club bosses seem to think having Ched back is the right thing. They want to help rehabilitate him. 'But some of the board are still uneasy. They could still be a few weeks away from making public their decision.' The newspaper reports that the club have declined to comment further. Ched Evans issued a statement with his girlfriend Natasha Massey pleading for a second chance to play football again - and insisted he was innocent . Evidence: Evans' victim on CCTV at the hotel in his home town of Rhyl, North Wales, on the night of the assault . Last week co-chairmen Kevin McCabe and Jim Phipps issued a joint statement denying reports that they have offered Evans a new contract. They described the reports as 'false and damaging to the club' but added: 'We have made a statement on this matter previously and the lack of credibility and substance from this latest media report does not warrant any expansion from previous comments apart from noting that we are continuing to deliberate on any long term decision about Ched Evans.' Earlier this week it was reported that an online petition against Evans returning to Sheffield United had gained more than 150,000 signatures. Ms Massey (right) has led a campaign to have Evans' conviction overturned in a case review . Evans, pictured in action for Sheffield United, wants to restart his career after serving a sentence for rape . Evans broke his silence for the first time on Wednesday to apologise to his girlfriend Natasha Massey, 25. But he was criticised for not mentioning his victim - who had previously been named by trolls on Twitter and forced to change her name as a result. In the statement he said he has 'constantly regretted my act of infidelity and the damage that has been done on so many fronts because of it'. He added: 'It is a rare and extraordinary privilege to be permitted to play professional football. Now that I've served the custodial part of my sentence of two and a half years, it is my hope that I will be able to return to football. But he said he was 'determined to continue to fight to clear my name' and has now submitted his case to the Criminal Cases Review Commission. | Sheffield United continuing to 'deliberate' on decision over football rapist .
Club had denied rumours it was about to offer him a two-year £500,000 deal .
There are claims board members are split over whether he should return .
Striker released from prison last Friday after served half five-year sentence .
He has maintained his innocence despite being found guilty of raping 19-year-old in Rhyl, North Wales . |
112,561 | 1d384bb9297f507611e6d61f94b679c6290f6437 | By . Jill Reilly . PUBLISHED: . 07:29 EST, 7 November 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 12:53 EST, 7 November 2012 . A toy aeroplane was bought for a child during World War Two, but was never unwrapped and played with because he was killed in the Blitz . The tin monoplane was given to a youngster in 1941, but recently found wrapped in newspaper in a loft in Bristol where it had sat untouched for 70 years. The newspaper included a story about how . Bristol had been bombed heavily two nights before - the first time the . city was hit by the Blitz. Tragic: The tin monoplane was given to a youngster in 1941 - but it is thought he never got to play with his new toy . Loss: The plane was purchased as a Christmas present in 1940 but its pristine condition suggests it was a gift that was never given . Bristol was the fifth most heavily bombed British city of World War II. The presence of Bristol Harbour and the Bristol Aeroplane Company made it a target for bombing by the Nazi German Luftwaffe who were able to trace a course up the River Avon from Avonmouth. At 6pm on 24th November 1940 Bristol experienced its first Blitz lasting six hours. Coventry had been badly bombed just 10 days before the Bristol Blitz. This raid had been widely reported in the newspapers. The government did not want to lower public morale. Between 24 November 1940 and 11 April 1941 there were six major bombing raids. In total 1299 people were killed, 1303 seriously injured, and 697 were rescued from debris . 89,080 buildings were damaged including 81,830 houses destroyed. On 3rd January 1941 Bristol was hit by bombing yet again with the raid lasting nearly 12 hours and during it a 4,000lb bomb was dropped on Knowle. This bomb did not explode and the people of Bristol called it Satan. It was made safe and was included in the 1945 London victory parade. Bristol was the fifth most heavily bombed British city of World War Two. Experts believe the plane was bought for a youngster who was never able to play with it and died during the bombing. The camouflaged monoplane is one of only three made by iconic British toy manufacturers W. Britain. William Britain Senior turned his hand from brass maker to toymaker in 1893, and pioneered the use of lead-casting toy soldiers. His firm began making . camouflage-painted toys after war broke out in 1939, but by 1941 had . switched their manufacturing tools to help the war effort. The mint condition plane was bought for £10,000 by an American collector at auctioneers Vectis in Thornaby, Yorkshire. Winning bid: The mint condition plane was bought for £10,000 by an American collector at auctioneers Vectis in Thornaby, Yorkshire . Rare: The small metal toy is one of three known to exist shows a WW1 propeller driven plane with US Air Force badges . Spokesman Simon Clarke, said . 'Although they produced thousands of aircraft, W. Britain only produced a . very small number just prior to ceasing production during the war with a . camouflage finish. 'It . was quite a good price - I was over the moon. It’s not unusual to . achieve those types of prices for W. Britain toys - they’re sought after . all over the world. 'In that period from the outbreak of . war to when they stopped making toys the next year, they made a lot of . crazy toys related to war. Under attack: Bristol was the fifth most heavily bombed British city of World War Two . 'They . made them only for a matter of months, then they went over to war . productions. From 1941 they stopped making toys and started making hand . grenades.' The plane was originally bought for 9s 6d - or £18.30 in today’s money - from Gyles Brothers of Bristol. It still packaged in its original box which could be turned into a ‘hangar’ by following instructions. | The tin monoplane was given to a youngster in 1941 - but it is thought he never got to play with his new toy .
It was recently found wrapped in newspaper in a loft in Bristol . |
141,965 | 4395364bccd4ea0948a5ad8c10a2ea216bb282e9 | By . Daniel Miller . PUBLISHED: . 06:07 EST, 24 December 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 07:59 EST, 24 December 2012 . It's an age-old dilemma that almost every young man will sometime have to face- just how to go about asking that special somebody for a first date and how to behave to stand a chance of a second. But for chaps in the 1949 everything was made so simple with this cringe-worthy educational video that provides all the advice they might need to guarantee a swell time. The vintage footage from follows the trial and tribulations of young 'Woody' Woodrow who's just landed himself a hot ticket to the Hi-Teen Carnival - but just who should he take? Scroll down for video . First date jitters: But young Woody Woodrow's night out with Anne goes off without a hitch thanks to the tips in this hilarious dating video from the 1949 . Good looking Janice perhaps? Not a good idea the video warns, 'She always acts so bored - she'd make a fellow feel awkward and inferior.' And spare a thought for poor Betty who is regarded as another wrong-un because while she may not act superior, she wouldn't be any fun either. Hot ticket: The Hi-Teen Carnival offers good wholesome fun . So instead Woody plumps for 'good-time' Anne - but how should he ask her, and, gulp, what if she refused? Luckily for Woody there's plenty of advice on hand - from Dad 'look your best son, a first date is mighty important' and mom 'any girl who can't be ready on time for a date isn't good enough for my boy.' But Woody's real inspiration comes from smooth-talking brother Ed: 'Be your natural talkative old self and remember - flowers for a prom or very special party otherwise you don't need to.' And there are tips for girls too with Anne telling little sister Judy 'The important think about a date is to have a good time, you don't need to spend a lot of money to do that. 'Just enjoy what you're doing whether its movies or parties or anything and you leave your boyfriend with enough money so he'll ask you again.' Poor choice: Janice, left, is good looking but 'she'd make a fellow feel awkward and inferior' while Betty, right, is 'not superior' but wouldn't be that much fun either, the video warns . Inspiration: Luckily for young Woody help is at hand from smooth-talking brother Ed . Anne tells little sister Judy that the important thing about a date is to 'have a good time' And there are pearls of wisdom on hand from mom and dad too who recount the tales of their first dates . Thanks to all the helpful advice Woody and . Anne's first date goes off without a hitch - and they get to enjoy a . range of wholesome activities at the carnival including a game of darts . to having their fortunes told plus a riveting slide show. And . when it comes to saying goodnight - lunging in for a quick snog is a . definite no no. Indeed any hanky-panky is strictly off limits just say . thank you because 'a girl likes to know you've had a good time'. Follow these golden rules fellas, and perhaps like Woody, you'll get to walk home whistling with a second date in the bag. A swell time: Woody and Anne enjoy some cotton candy at the Hi-Teen carnival . Woody and Anne's first date goes off without a hitch - and they get to enjoy a range of wholesome activities at the carnival including a game of darts . Fatal error: Don't ruin the evening by lunging in for a quick goodnight snog, left, and like Woody, right, you'll get to walk home whistling with a second date in the bag . | Who should young 'Woody' Woodrow take to the Hi-Teen Carnival? |
108,555 | 17f9557566736998e782920c04fff87eb9b8059e | (CNN) -- Kanye West has high expectations from his fans at concerts. And if you can't meet them, he's going to need to know why. While performing in Sydney on Friday, West paused his performance to request that all audience members stand before he went on with the show. It's not unusual for an artist to ask the audience to physically participate, but West's insistence at his concert Friday led to a very uncomfortable moment. "I've decided, I can't do this song, I can't do the rest of this show until everybody stands up," West said, adding an exception for those with handicaps. "No, seriously -- I won't go on with the show unless y'all stand up." As video from the concert shows, West really wasn't kidding, as he took several moments to scan the audience for anyone sitting down. When he spotted two people who still weren't standing, West initially griped, "This was the longest I've had to wait to do a song. It's unbelievable." According to The Hollywood Reporter, one of those individuals had a prosthetic limb, and another was in a wheelchair. After sending someone over to investigate why the two concertgoers weren't standing, West quickly clarified that "if you're using a wheelchair, then it's fine. ... Only if he's in a wheelchair." Once he'd confirmed that those not standing really couldn't, West continued with his show. The stunt was met with an immediate backlash on Twitter. According to the Daily Mail, it wasn't the first time West has been criticized for making that kind of demand. Opinion: Kanye West and proving your disabilities . | Kanye West has been criticized for insisting the audience stand up during a concert .
The rapper was in Australia when he made the demand .
He held up the show until he'd confirmed that everyone who could was standing . |
154,550 | 53b811598fb35008b99bf09f1aed7b0057750242 | By . Allan Hall . PUBLISHED: . 06:10 EST, 8 November 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 06:35 EST, 8 November 2012 . A deranged young man who donned the . gruesome mask of serial killer from the blood-drenched horror film 'Saw' to kill his landlady has been sentenced to ten years behind bars. Fabian Kramer, 19, killed his . 82-year-old landlady wearing the sinister mask out of 'pure murderous . lust,' according to prosecutors at his trial in the British army . garrison town of Bielefeld. He must serve the whole of the . sentence with no chance of remission from a secure psychiatric unit. If . he is found to still be unstable at the end of his term, he will stay . inside, ruled judges. Guilty: Fabian Kramer, left, has been sentenced to ten years in a secure psychiatric unit after killing his elderly landlady while wearing this mask from the horror film-series Saw . He stabbed his victim Hanna Litz 50 times in her own apartment which was adjacent to his. They say Kramer wached the 2004 movie . Saw - about two men who are chained in an underground bathroom and are . each given instructions via a microcassette recorder on how to escape - . the night he killed his landlady in March this year. He rang police after the killing with a fantasy tale about finding her body. When police arrived Kramer was . kneeling by the side of his victim pretending he was attempting to save . her life. "I am an ambulanceman," he lied. "I am just doing my best to . save her." Gruesome: The mask was placed upon a tailor's dummy for lawyers to view before it was moved to the well of the court . Evidence: The mask and the kitchen knife (pictured) used to kill his victim were found in his flat in the hours following the attack . But he was soaked in her blood - . splashes a forensic expert said could only have come from the wounds as . they occurred - and police suspected him immediately as the killer. The horror mask along with the kitchen . knife he used to end the life of his victim were found in . his flat in the hours following the attack. The mask was flecked also with Mrs. Litz's blood. He denied murder up until the end and his lawyer pleaded for him to go free. But judges said he was a 'clear menace' to society. | Mask of movie serial killer used as exhibit in real-life murder trial .
19-year-old Fabian Kramer sentenced to ten years for murder .
The teen stabbed his elderly landlady 50 times in 'pure murderous lust' |
238,033 | c0156937cd80f0c152e4cd416d170d09a5d3fc3a | A Chicago man creatively popped the question to his girlfriend by using a personalized flipbook. Rodney Nelson surprised his future wife Alexa Wenning with an adorable animated proposal after commissioning a local artist known as The Flippist to design and assemble cartoon images featuring details from their relationship for the customized book. Alexa, who shared their story with the proposal website HowHeAsked.com, revealed that Rodney had taken her to the Lincoln Park Zoo to see the Christmas lights festival and presented her with the flipbook before getting down on one knee. Scroll down for video . Thoughtful engagement: Rodney Nelson from Chicago hired a local artist to create a personalized flipbook, which he used to propose to his girlfriend Alexa Wenning . The flipbook shows animated versions of Rodney and Alexa playing fetch with their dog. When Alexa's character throws a ball across the park, the dog returns with a gray box, which she opens to find a ring. The last few pages read: 'Will you... Marry Me.' After Alexa finished flipping through the book, Rodney reached into his pocket, pulled out her real diamond engagement ring and asked for her hand. Puppy love: An artist known as The Flippist drew images of Rodney and Alexa playing fetch with their dog for custom flipbook . Go long: Alexa's animated character can be seen throwing a ball in Chicago's Lincoln Park . Surprise gift: When her dog returns, he is carrying a gray box instead of the yellow ball she had thrown . 'Of course, I started bawling,' she told the website. 'I almost got frostbite afterwards because I refused to put my gloves back on!' The couple's first meeting was nearly as sweet as their engagement. After college, Alexa accepted a job in Chicago and moved on a whim. Within days of arriving in the Midwestern city, Alexa reconnected with an old acquaintance from school who invited her to a happy hour with her co-workers. Full of excitement: Alexa's character can be seen opening the box towards the end of the flipbook . Pop the question: The last few pages of the flipbook contain an engagement ring and the words: 'Will You... Marry Me?' Diamonds are forever: After Alexa finished flipping through the book, Rodney got down on one knee and pulled out her real engagement ring . It was there that she met Rodney - her future husband. Following their engagement, Alexa and Rodney returned to the Chicago park to have their engagement pictures taken. The couple's romantic proposal is just one of the many that have turned into Internet sensations. Last month, singer Michael Franti proposed to longtime love Sara Agah with a touching engagement video featuring intimate moments from their everyday lives set to his 2013 song Life Is Better With You - which he had written for her . Michael spent three years collecting the footage of Sarah before he popped the question in Bali. | Rodney Nelson from Chicago had a local artist known as The Flippist design a personal flipbook for his girlfriend Alexa Wenning .
He presented Alexa with the animated book and got down on knee while visiting the Christmas lights festival at Lincoln Park Zoo . |
185,171 | 7bdfc12075b3465de95336bda40e515e6eb361e6 | By . Richard Shears . Last updated at 1:31 AM on 17th January 2012 . Clutching a large sign declaring 'Thank You - She Lived', a police officer stood at the roadside expressing his gratitude to strangers who helped save his wife. Leanne Jackson collapsed as she was walking the dog with her husband, police inspector Glenn in Australia. As he struggled to keep her alive, a passer by phoned for an ambulance and other people helped perform CPR on her. Thanks! Glenn Jackson stands at the roadside with his large sign after passers by helped save his wife after she collapsed in his arms . Mrs Jackson collapsed suddenly after suffering ventricular fibrillation - a severely abnormal heart rhythm. Despite being declared clinically dead by ambulance officers who arrived at the scene in Scoresby, Melbourne, she pulled through and now Inspector Jackson wants to thank everyone who came to her aid. With his sons Tom and Mitch, along with Tom's girlfriend Hayley, he stood at the spot where his wife had collapsed clutching the sign so that passing motorists and cyclists saw it. 'It was like the worst feeling in my life, times 100,' said Inspector Jackson as he recalled the moment when his wife collapsed. With their dog's leash in one hand, he used his other hand to brace her fall as she started to drop. A cyclist pulled over to help, held on to the dog and also called for an ambulance. Then a couple stopped and helped with CPR, taking instructions from an emergency operator. Ambulance official Patrick Donaldson told Melbourne's Herald Sun newspaper that Mrs Jackson was clinically dead when paramedics arrived. 'We shocked her four times before her heart started beating again,' he said. A few days later Mrs Jackson was taken out of an induced coma. Two weeks after the drama, she is now well enough to correspond with friends on Facebook. 'Without the help of those people who came to her aid, she wouldn't be here,' said Inspector Jackson. Anxious to find those who helped, he has stood patiently at the roadside with the sign, hoping that the unknown Good Samaritans will stop so he can thank them personally. | Leanne Jackson was 'clinically dead' after collapsing with heart condition .
Passers by rang an ambulance and helped with CPR . |
174,509 | 6ddc6cc154a1bea7477dedce678b5f250d76a909 | In what many sports fans view as a historic move, the reigning NBA champion San Antonio Spurs announced the hiring of Becky Hammon as assistant coach. Terms of Hammon's contract were not disclosed. "I very much look forward to the addition of Becky Hammon to our staff," Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich said. "Having observed her working with our team this past season, I'm confident her basketball IQ, work ethic and interpersonal skills will be a great benefit to the Spurs." At her introductory press conference Tuesday afternoon, Hammon called the opportunity humbling. "I'm just incredibly grateful, obviously, to the Spurs organization and Coach Pop and (Spurs General Manager R.C. Buford)," Hammon said. "The whole staff really just from day one has been so great to me. I'm a little overwhelmed right now, to be perfectly honest." Hammon, a six-time WNBA All-Star, announced July 23 she will retire as a player at the end of this season. She has played the last eight seasons with the San Antonio Stars. Hammon is not the first woman in NBA history on an NBA coaching staff. Lisa Boyer, while working for the WNBA's Cleveland Rockers as an assistant coach, also was on the Cleveland Cavaliers coaching staff under John Lucas in 2001-2002. Boyer is now the associate head coach for the South Carolina women's basketball team. Hammon alluded to the historical impact of her hiring, but she also tied in career fields other than basketball. "There's women that have trail-blazed much bigger paths and really trail-blazed the path for things like this to happen," Hammon said. "There's a lot more important things going on, in the bigger things, CEOs of companies. Women are really in every area. They're in the surgery rooms. They're doctors. They're lawyers. They're COOs. "So even me sitting here today to be able to have the playing experience that I had as a professional basketball player, women went before me to pave that trail. So I'm really just reaping benefits of all their hard work and labor." Popovich found out through San Antonio Stars head coach Dan Hughes that Hammon was interested in coaching. That led to Hammon spending time with Popovich and the rest of the Spurs team at practices, and a feature on "NBA Inside Stuff." "She's right in the middle and she knows how to do it and her players really respond to her," Popovich said in the "Inside Stuff" feature. "She's just a natural." Spurs guard/forward Danny Green was complimentary as well. "Everybody here respects her," Green said. "She's a really good player and also a good person to have around. She understands the game." In the feature, Popovich also said Hammon "knows when to talk" and "when to shut up," saying that a lot of people don't figure that out. "She talks the game, she understands the game," Popovich said. "So for all those reasons you really know she's got that same sort of Avery Johnson, Steve Kerr, (Mike) Budenholzer type thing." Hammon acknowledged she will be in high-pressure situations. "I'm ready to be treated as just any other assistant coach," she said. Despite going undrafted in 1999, Hammon was named one of the WNBA's Top 15 Players of All Time in July 2011. She's seventh in league history in points with 5,809, fourth in assists (1,687) and sixth in games (445). Hammon has averaged 13.1 points per game in her career. Hammon, who grew up in Rapid City, South Dakota, spent her first eight WNBA seasons with the New York Liberty after signing as an undrafted free agent. On a draft-night deal in 2007, she was traded to San Antonio. Hammon also was a three-time All-American at Colorado State. Hammon, one of many women's players to also play professionally overseas during WNBA offseasons, became a naturalized Russian citizen in 2008. That same year, when she was the runner-up in the WNBA MVP voting, Hammon created a stir when she decided to suit up for the Russian National Team in the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. She said she was feeling overlooked by USA Basketball for a spot on the U.S. national team but still wanted to fulfill her dream of playing in the Olympics. Hammon also played for the Russian team in the 2012 London Games. Clermont boss says female soccer coaches should be "normal" | Hammon, a six-time WNBA All-Star, announced July 23 she will retire as a player .
Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich praises her coaching talent .
Hammon is not the first woman in NBA history on an NBA coaching staff . |
204,495 | 94bdec16809c7094a7f16c51296572be5840010a | Around seven children a day accidentally swallow liquid nicotine from e-cigarette refills, a new study has today revealed . Around seven children a day accidentally swallow liquid nicotine from e-cigarette refills, a new study has found. Toddlers and young children are at risk of dying if poisoned by the refill cartridges, unless designs and safety rules are changed, doctors have today warned. Severe nicotine poisoning can cause dangerous irregular heartbeat, coma, convulsions, confusion and dizziness as well as prompting the heart to stop pumping blood around the body causing cardiac arrest. Nicotine can be lethal in adults at doses as low as 40 mg, with the threshold for children likely to be much lower at around 1mg per kg of weight. Yet nicotine cartridge refills are available in various strengths, ranging from 6 mg/l (0.6 per cent) to 36 mg/l (3.6 per cent), and at the higher strength, just a few drops could have serious side effects in a child under five. The warning came after a toddler was rushed to casualty at the Good Hope Hospital in Birmingham and nearly dying after swallowing nicotine from a device. The two-year-old vomited after picking up a cartridge containing the chemical and putting it in her mouth. The child was given the all-clear after being monitored for several hours. Figures released by the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) earlier this year showed a 'massive rise' in calls to poison centres related to accidental swallowing of liquid nicotine contained in e-cigarette refill cartridges. These rose from one in September 2010 to 215 a month by February 2014 with more than half the calls involved children under the age of five. Dr Sanjay Gupta, who treated the child at Good Hope in March, urged parents to be careful with the refills. He also called for more legislation around the safety of e-cigarettes, in a letter to publication Archives of Disease in Childhood. The consultant said: 'Our case highlights an important emerging issue related to the use of increasingly popular e-cigarettes. 'The exploratory nature of young children and the attractive packaging of refills is a dangerous combination likely to lead to a growing incidence of accidental exposure to concentrated nicotine solution. 'We don't want to see children die from this, but there is a possibility that they could depending on the concentration of the liquid and the size of the child. 'In the worst case scenario it could kill a very small child who ingests the substance. 'Two or three drops are enough to cause palpitations, vomiting, dizziness and high blood pressure.' Dr Gupta said the girl's case was the first of its kind seen at Good Hope. It comes as it emerged a two-year-old was rushed to the Good Hope Hospital in Birmingham and nearly died after swallowing nicotine from a device. Doctors have called for increased safety regulation of e-cigarettes . But he said he had researched several incidents of adults needing medical treatment over similar alerts. 'Some refills have screw-cap type lids and others simply snap into the e-cigarette and are a lot safer,' he said. 'It is the screw-cap type, which are dangerous and the risk has grown because there are so many products like this being developed by companies. 'What started out as a beneficial thing has now turned into a risk for children. 'It can be quite a concentrated solution and there needs to be more awareness around it. These refills, which are in colourful attractive packaging, need to be kept away from children. 'The risk posed by nicotine liquid to children needs to be recognised, acknowledged and acted upon by all. This includes public education and legislation to improve the safety profile of e-liquid containers.' Birmingham Director of Public Health, Dr Adrian Phillips, said: 'E-cigarettes are a new product and, while they are undoubtedly less harmful than traditional cigarettes, they are not without risks. 'This report clearly highlights the need for regulation and more needs to be done to protect children and young people.' The study was published in Archives of Disease in Childhood. | Around seven children a day accidentally swallow liquid nicotine from e-cigarette refills, scientists have revealed .
Toddlers are at risk of dying if they are poisoned by the refill cartridges .
Study comes as two-year-old was rushed to the Good Hope Hospital in Birmingham and nearly died after swallowing nicotine from a device . |
125,360 | 2e0d312222bc7292fe9c29f3d6554625d27c0b1f | By . Mark Prigg . PUBLISHED: . 08:59 EST, 9 October 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 06:09 EST, 10 October 2012 . An augmented reality app has brought some of the world's most iconic paintings alive on an iPhone screen. The AART app uses the phone's camera to recognise when the handset is being pointed at a print of original of the painting. The iPhone screen then comes to life, displaying animated versions of the picture. Scroll down for video . One of the interactive images shows Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer's the Girl with a Pearl Earring. On the iPhone, the girl looks to the camera. 'ARART lets a new story unfold, as if time trapped inside the painting had been stirred alive,' its mkaers say on their website. 'ARART offers a glimpse into the hidden story veiled behind the painting.' The team behind the project have already developed several interactive portraits. The include a version of the Mona Lisa that turns to wink at the viewer, and a version of Van Gogh's sunflowers where the plants blow in the wind. The firm also says the technique can be used for books, and has built a version of 'Alice in Wonderland' where the mad hatter springs to life on the phone screen. 'Everybody is familiar with the beautifully illustrated “Alice in Wonderland', the firm said. 'When reading this novel with ARART, the beloved characters will come to life and move about spiritedly.' The firm is also using the technology to bring books such as Alice in Wonderland to life . The phone shows characters running across pages and jumping around . The team are also developing music applications for the technology, and have already created an app for Radiohead's Kid A album which lets iPhone owners control the record and 'scratch' on their phone's screen. The team are also working with artists to develop special works to take advantage of the technology. A new work by Akamatsu Masayuki integrates sound and video into the artwork, which can only be seen on the phone handset. Radiohead's Kid A can be controlled via the app, with the user scratching the screen to control playback. When the camera is overlaid on the wall panel, ARART will play music and video according to what it sees. A second project, Yutaka Kitamura’s 'Flowering' is an artwork that features blooming flowers recorded in high speed. The paintings display flower buds and when the camera is overlaid onto the paintings, ARART will show clips of the buds blooming into flowers. The app has made three of the interactive portraits available on its website, with more being developed with galleries. | Japanese app uses augmented reality to show animated pictures when user points their phone or iPad at a picture .
Other images include Van Gogh's sunflowers blowing in the wind and characters from Alice in Wonderland coming to life on the page . |
161,472 | 5cc0bd300e883bd4cf74abb5163c7265c15025a8 | Many of the women signing up for ultra marathons and marathons today will take for granted their right to compete. But only 40 years ago, it was not an option. As recently as the Eighties, it was thought to be too dangerous for women to run long distances. It wasn't until the late Seventies that big city marathons began to allow women to compete. And women were not allowed to take part in the marathon at the Olympics until 1984. Since then, women's participation in marathons, ultra marathons, and adventure races has flourished. Not just for macho men: A quarter of the Men's Health Survival Of The Fittest entrants are now female . One race series involving a tough army-style assault course is attracting an increasing number of female participants despite being sponsored by a men's magazine. The Men's Health Survival Of The Fittest series is not just about males proving their strength and stamina as now a quarter of the 18,500 entrants are women. The race, held in cities across the UK, involves running at least 10k over an urban assault course where challenges including swinging across monkey bars, scaling high walls and scrambling through mud under a net. Jim Mee, founder of Rat Race Adventure Sports, who organises the Men's Health Survival Of The Fittest races and other endurance events, said: 'Over the past two years we have seen a significant increase in women taking part in our events. 'There could be several reasons for this increase, but in my opinion I believe that a lot of women are using endurance races and events as a target to help motivate them to lose weight, or improve their fitness.' One of the women who has decided to take part in the obstacle course race for the first time this year is Lesley McDonald, 35, who lives in Glasgow. No walk in the park: The obstacle course races involve scaling walls and crawling under nets through the mud . She told MailOnline: 'I have signed up for it as part of a series of challenges I have committed to doing for a year to raise money for charity whilst also getting fit. 'I wanted a wide range of challenges, rather than just running straightforward 10Ks. I also wanted to do events where you could enter as a team, so I am doing this with a group of former colleagues.' Despite the masculine name of the series, Lesley said she wasn't put off entering the Men's Health event in Manchester this November. She said: 'It has never crossed my mind that these events would be male dominated. It's great to see more women getting involved.' Meanwhile, another of Rat Race Adventure Sports events - The Wall Ultra - is also appealling to more women. At this year's race, which follows an off-road route along Hadrian's Wall, 40 per cent of the entrants were female. Up for the challenge: Lesley McDonald, 35, left, is training for a Men's Health Survival Of The Fittest event, while Sally Ford, 37, finished The Wall Ultra Marathon . Sally Ford, 37, from Hutton Roof, in Cumbria, was the first woman to finish the 69 mile run in 2014. She said: 'I've met lots of ultra runners/adventure racers in the last few years and I think the women are definitely tougher than the men! Once we put our minds to something we usually follow it through to the end, no matter how hard it gets. 'We're used to juggling jobs, kids, hobbies and home life. It's often a struggle to fit everything in but I think that's what makes us more determined to finish these races. Dropping out isn't an option.' The women taking part in such long distance events have some inspiring role models in ultra distance runners like Lizzy Hawker and Ellie Greenwood. Lizzy, 37, from London, has won The North Face Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc five times and in 2013 set a new world record running from Everest Base Camp to Kathmandu in Nepal. Meanwhile, Ellie, 35, became the first British woman to win the Comrades Ultra Marathon - an undulating 55 mile race - this year. They have proved that women can run for as long as men - and often at a faster pace than them as well. Pioneer: Kathrine Switzer campaigned for women to be able to run marathons and was the first to complete the Boston Marathon, despite race officials physically trying to stop her . Kathrine Switzer was one of the women who campaigned for the right for women to compete in the marathon. She became a figurehead for the cause after she took part in the Boston Marathon in 1967 - and organisers physically tried to remove her from the race when they realised she was a woman. Kathrine, now 67, said of her desire to take part: 'I was just a kid who wanted to run, and was there as a reward from my coach who didn't believe that a woman could run the distance. 'I had heard that other women had run marathon distances and that one woman in 1966 ran the Boston Marathon but without a bib number, so I wasn't trying to break any barriers. It wasn't until a race official attacked me during the run did I become determined to finish and speak out on behalf of all women.' She did finish and went on to run many more marathons - as well as helping other women have the right to do the same. She said joining the successful campaign to make the women's marathon an Olympic event by 1984 was her biggest 'life victory'. She said: 'I knew when the world saw women in the most difficult of all running events, competing in the most important and prestigious sports event the Olympics it would change world attitudes about women's capability. Everyone everywhere understands that 26.2 miles (or 42.2 km,) is a long way to run, and when they see women doing it they know that women can do anything and should be allowed to participate.' Ten years ago, just 13 people set off together on a timed 5k run around their local park in London. This weekend thousands around the world will do the same thing thanks to the growth of the parkrun organisation. Founded by Paul Sinton-Hewitt, who has been awarded a CBE for services to grassroots sport, parkruns are held across the UK and in other parts of the world every Saturday at 9am. The ethos is it's a 'timed run' not a race - so everyone is welcome regardless of their fitness or competitiveness. Children can take part (and in some areas there are 3k junior parkruns), as can parents with pushchairs and dogs with their owners. All the runs are free and require no pre-entry. All people have to do is sign up once on the parkrun website and print off a personal barcode to take along on any Saturday they want to take part (the barcode is how you get your time after the run). For many people, their local parkrun has become part of their fitness routine or started them on a journey to become a marathoner or ultra marathoner. For others, it's just a free, fun way to stay healthy -so it's no wonder ten years later, 13 has become 850,000 from Olympians to absolute beginners. Happy birthday parkrun! | Quarter of Men's Health Survival Of The Fittest entrants are female .
Women not put off by masculine race title .
Ultra marathon races also increasing popular with fairer sex .
Yet not that long ago women weren't allowed to enter marathons .
Thought to be too dangerous for them to complete long distance .
Women's Olympic marathon wasn't established till 1984 . |
227,077 | b20bc061a503ffe395ad83afe736c7e845b5fe8e | Windsor, England (CNN) -- Four portraits of Queen Elizabeth II by pop artist Andy Warhol have gone on display at her home, Windsor Castle, for the first time as part of an exhibition of official images of the monarch marking the end of her Diamond Jubilee year. Warhol's series of sparkling "diamond-dusted" portraits of the Queen was acquired earlier this year to mark the Diamond Jubilee. Royal Librarian Jane Roberts told CNN they were the "most iconic" images in the exhibition, "The Queen: Portraits of a Monarch," which features pictures, paintings and sculptures by some of the world's best-known artists and photographers. Warhol, who once claimed he wanted to be "as famous as the Queen of England," used a 10-year-old official portrait of Elizabeth II, by royal photographer Peter Grugeon, to create the four screenprints for his "Reigning Queens" series in 1985. "What Warhol did was he grabbed a pre-existing image of the Queen and wiped it clean, so what you're left with is the outline, with the tiara," Roberts told CNN. "Then he played around with colors, and lighting, and 'diamond dust' [cut glass], really treating the likeness as an icon." Capturing a Queen: Images of Elizabeth II . Queen Elizabeth's global significance -- as head of the Commonwealth -- is hinted at by the number of works by international photographers and artists in the exhibition: American Annie Leibovitz, Canadian Yousuf Karsh, Italian Pietro Annigoni and Czech Franta Belsky, among others. So which, of the millions of pictures of the monarch, will be the one which is remembered long after her reign, the defining image of Queen Elizabeth II, who Roberts says is "probably the most photographed person in the world"? With so many to choose from, she says it is hard to be sure. "I suspect in this age of photography, that it will be a photograph," said Roberts. "Probably one of the incredibly glamorous photographs taken by Cecil Beaton. "But having said that, it could be one of the photographs taken very early in her reign, between the accession and the coronation, by Dorothy Wilding, because they were then reproduced on coinage and stamps, again and again." "Or it could be the Warhol. Who knows?" "The Queen: Portraits of a Monarch" is on at Windsor Castle until June 9, 2013. | Queen Elizabeth II celebrated her Diamond Jubilee in 2012 .
Monarch's 60th anniversary on throne marked with a series of exhibitions .
Jubilee year rounded off with show of official portraits at Windsor Castle .
Works by Andy Warhol, Cecil Beaton, Lucian Freud and Annie Leibovitz featured . |
12,502 | 236a0247b8a215ab208b7690c20d4ddab626816c | By . Emma Innes . PUBLISHED: . 11:14 EST, 9 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:16 EST, 9 May 2013 . Accident and emergency services have ‘deteriorated significantly’, according to NHS officials. Launching its National Recovery and Improvement Plan, NHS England said the number of organisations failing to meet waiting time targets has doubled over the last year. The organisation said that many factors have contributed to the decline of the service including the increasing numbers of patients, seasonal illnesses such as the winter vomiting bug, and delays in admittance and discharge of patients. NHS England said the number of organisations failing to meet waiting time targets has doubled over the last year . The problems could also have been exacerbated by the introduction of the NHS 111 service and pressure on social care budgets, an NHS England document suggests. ‘A&E performance has deteriorated significantly over the last six months,’ the document says. ‘Long waiting times in A&E departments (often experienced by those awaiting admission and hence ill patients) not only deliver poor quality in terms of patient experience, they also compromise patient safety and reduce clinical effectiveness.’ In the last quarter of 2011/12 a third of hospitals did not meet the target of having 95 per cent of A&E patients seen and discharged or admitted within four hours. For the last quarter of 2012/13, two thirds of hospitals failed to meet the target, figures show. NHS England has ordered local health authorities to form ‘urgent care boards’ which will create plans to improve the service in place by the end of the month. ‘When pressure builds across the health and social care system, the symptoms are usually found in the A&E department,’ said NHS England's national director for acute episodes of care, Professor Keith Willett. ‘I've lived that environment for 30 years and I know just how tough it can be. The problems could have been exacerbated by the introduction of the NHS 111 service and pressure on social care budgets . ‘What we all want is great service for patients that meets and often exceeds the minimum standards. ‘To get there, we need the whole NHS system, in the community and hospitals, to recognise the problems and help to relieve the pressure on their colleagues in A&E. ‘In the longer term we need to combine all the expertise in the NHS to determine how best to organise emergency care in future so that people get appropriate, effective and rapid care whenever and wherever it is needed.’ The organisation has already launched a review to try and get to the root of the problems, and NHS England medical director Professor Sir Bruce Keogh is looking into the urgent and emergency care system across the country. The news comes after the health and social care regulator warned that demand on NHS accident and emergency departments is ‘out of control’ and ‘totally unsustainable’. David Prior, chairman of the Care Quality Commission (CQC), said there should be widespread closures of hospital beds and investment in community care to tackle the increasing burden on emergency care. Mr Prior said that far too many patients were arriving at hospital as emergency cases - a crisis which could be averted by earlier intervention through care in the community. This has put such pressure on the health care system that it is at the brink of collapse, he said, meaning regulators cannot guarantee that there will never be another care disaster such as that in Mid Staffordshire. Hundreds of patients may have died needlessly at Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust - many patients were left lying in their own urine and excrement for days, forced to drink water from vases or given the wrong medication. Robert Francis QC, chairman of the public inquiry into the ‘disaster’ at Stafford Hospital, highlighted ‘appalling and unnecessary suffering of hundreds of people’ at the trust between 2005 and 2009. | NHS England is launching a 'national recovery and improvement plan'
Number of hospitals failing to meet waiting time targets doubled last year .
In the last quarter of 2012/13 two thirds of hospitals failed to meet targets .
A&E departments should see and treat 95% of patients within four hours . |
13,042 | 25025731f1401aee27b66a6842084572974c1a12 | Nyakagyezi, Uganda (CNN) -- Visiting his former village in rural Uganda, Jackson Kaguri was the epitome of a success story. He had escaped poverty, earned a college degree and moved to America, where he studied at an Ivy League school and planned to put a down payment on a house in Indiana. He'd often come back to Uganda, passing out school supplies to children. But on one particular trip home in 2001, he realized he had to do more. "We woke up in the morning, and grandmothers had lined up all around the house, stretching way back. ... The whole village had gathered," Kaguri said. "All these women walked miles and miles. It was huge." UNICEF estimates that 1.2 million children in Uganda have lost one or both parents to AIDS-related illnesses, and Kaguri said it's often grandmothers who have to pick up the slack. "You see the grandmothers over and over whose own children have died and left them," he said. "Some of them have up to 14 (grandchildren) to raise in their homes. Sometimes the child has HIV/AIDS, they need medication. The grandmother needs food. They need a house. And nothing is there." The grandmothers who gathered in Kaguri's childhood village begged Kaguri to help them. And he felt an obligation to give more than just pens, pencils and paper. "These are women who had seen me grow up in the village," he said. "They carried me when I was hurt, they prayed for me when I was away studying. What was I supposed to do?" Knowing that education had been so key to his success, Kaguri and his wife decided to use their life savings to start a free school in the village. They purchased two acres of land and built the Nyaka School, brick by brick, with the help of local volunteers. When the school officially launched on January 2, 2003, 56 AIDS orphans were the first students. "We provide them uniforms. We provide them pencils. We give them shoes," said Kaguri, 41. "Everything we give ... is to try and eliminate as many obstacles as possible, so children can be successful and focus on education." Early on, it was noticed that many children in the school were falling asleep because of hunger and malnutrition. So the school began providing students two meals a day. There is also a medical clinic on site. Meanwhile, Kaguri continued to raise money for the project while he worked full time in the United States. When he learned that a child had walked more than 30 miles to attend the school, he started a second school, the Kutamba School, in the village of Nyakishenyi. Today, between the two schools, there are 587 students -- kindergarten through 12th grade -- receiving a free education and health care. Nearly all of them have lost either one or both parents to AIDS-related illnesses. The issue hits especially close to home for Kaguri, who has lost his brother, one of his sisters and a 3-year-old nephew to the disease. Kaguri says he felt fortunate to have the financial means to help his brother's children financially, but in many similar cases, children end up homeless. "Many of them are on the streets in Kampala eating from the dust bins," Kaguri said. "You see all these street children because they have no one to help them." It's these children Kaguri says he thinks about as he raises funds and awareness for his schools. "(We) take care of nearly 600 children in school," he said. "That leaves all these children who are walking around without an opportunity to get an education, to get health care, to get a meal to eat or even to get somebody to say, 'I love you.' " Do you know a hero? Nominations are open for 2012 CNN Heroes . Of the students at his schools, Kaguri estimates that 65% of them are being raised by their grandmothers, many of whom are often without adequate health care, finances or basic housing. So in 2008, he started a program that offers support and education to the nearly 7,000 area grandmothers who are raising their grandchildren. The program teaches the women practical life skills, offering advice on parenting, grief management, basic medical care, gardening and business development. Kaguri says that by giving grandmothers access to microfunds, allowing them to start small businesses and make money, more children have access to an education. And by giving seeds to the grandmothers to grow, more children have access to food. Grandmothers "are the pillars in the society, holding the society together," he said. "They are unsung heroes that people don't recognize." Every grandmother in the program, Kaguri said, has received some form of training or household equipment to improve their life. And his organization has also opened a library, started a gardening program and installed a clean-water system to benefit the entire village. Kaguri, whose organization is based in Michigan and is funded by individual donations and private foundations, spends much of his time fundraising, speaking and raising awareness. He travels to Uganda about three times a year. He hopes this younger generation will lift the country out of poverty and create a better future for their families and communities. He says he dreams about building a school in every district in Uganda. "I want to be an uncle for many so we can create other children who would be successful and do great things," he said. "It's giving them a hand up, just holding somebody's hand, trying to get (them) out of the pigeonhole they are in. ... "I feel humbled looking in the faces of the children smiling, focused on what their dreams are going to be." Want to get involved? Check out the Nyaka AIDS Orphans Project website at www.nyakaschool.org and see how to help. | It's estimated that 1.2 million children in Uganda have lost a parent to AIDS-related illnesses .
Jackson Kaguri opened a school in his former village to help many of these children .
Kaguri is also supporting area grandmothers who have been raising them .
Do you know a hero? Nominations are open for 2012 CNN Heroes . |
94,132 | 04ffbe3986ad4055d754343fe5a941db6bbac8fd | (CNN) -- Florida A&M University said Thursday that its famed Marching 100 band will return to the field for the first time since its suspension after the hazing death of a drum major nearly two years ago. The band had been one of the top university marching bands in the United States, but Robert Champion's death and other reports of hazing damaged its reputation. "We have made a thorough assessment of the students who have auditioned for the band and firmly believe that we are ready to return and positively represent Florida A&M University and its proud students, faculty, alumni and community," Sylvester Young, director of marching and pep bands, said in a statement. 'Enough is enough': Roommate sentenced in band member's death . "We embark on this season reflective of the circumstances that led to the band's suspension and are optimistic that this is a new day for the band and the university. Our goal is to support the mission of the university and use this program to recruit top scholars and elevate the stature of the university," he added. The band will perform during the halftime show at the MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented in Orlando, Florida, on September 1, and at other games during the football season. Trayvon Martin's father honored as FAMU band captain . The university stressed in the statement that positive steps have been taken since Champion's death. It created an anti-hazing plan that includes a revised student code of conduct, a new anti-hazing website, scheduled campus training and beefed-up procedures for reporting and investigating hazing allegations. Champion was beaten on a bus after a November 2011 football game in Orlando, as part of a band hazing ritual. The 26-year-old died "within an hour" of the beating, medical examiners reported. The Marching 100 was suspended shortly after his death. | Drum major Robert Champion died after being beaten in a hazing incident .
The school's famed Marching 100 band was suspended after his death .
It will perform in September in Orlando, and at other games during the season . |
72,265 | ccd4c3942a8b294baa8a2dec2c4c4d5bd26b7993 | Austin, Texas (CNN) -- A bill that places new restrictions on abortion passed the Texas Senate on Friday after days of debate that galvanized activists nationwide. It was the second attempt by the measure's supporters to pass the bill in the Senate -- it originally failed to gain approval because of a filibuster by Democratic Sen. Wendy Davis. The Senate voted 19 to 11 to approve the restrictions. Republican Gov. Rick Perry, who supports the new abortion laws, called the state Legislature back into a second special session to continue consideration of the bill, which passed the Texas House on Wednesday. The measure bans abortions past 20 weeks of gestation, mandates abortion clinics become ambulatory surgical centers, tightens usage guidelines for the drug RU486 and requires doctors who perform abortions to have admitting privileges at a hospital within 30 miles of the clinic at which they're providing such services. Opinion: It's the real Texans who count . Critics of the measure say it would shut down most abortion clinics in Texas -- denying access to many in rural communities -- and force women to seek dangerous back-alley abortions. The Republican legislators who support it say the bill isn't about banning abortions, but rather about protecting women's health. The special session was marked by loud protests and high-profile voices from both sides of the abortion debate. Taking a swipe at former Republican Sen. Rick Santorum, who came to Austin to support the bill, Democratic Sen. Kirk Watson made a final appeal to the Republicans to vote no, asking them to: "Take this chance to stop, take this chance to think, take this chance to stop listening to the partisans and failed presidential candidates." Cowboy Rick Perry will ride again - in 2016 . However, for supporters of the bill such as Sen. Jane Nelson, the bill's measures are long overdue. "There is a clear choice in this vote tonight," she said. "Do we keep the lax standards, do we forgo safeguards, do we ignore the evidence that at 20 weeks we have a child who can feel? Or do we choose life?" The roars of the crowd in the rotunda were audible throughout the Senate debate and at one point, abortion rights protesters disrupted the proceedings in the Senate gallery. One protester, singing quietly to the chamber, chained herself to a railing in the gallery and brought the session to a brief halt. The bill makes its way to Perry, who will sign it into law. "Today the Texas Legislature took its final step in our historic effort to protect life," Perry said after the bill's passage. "This legislation builds on the strong and unwavering commitment we have made to defend life and protect women's health. I am proud of our lawmakers and citizens who tirelessly defended our smallest and most vulnerable Texans and future Texans." Planned Parenthood, a leading reproductive health provider, decried the passage and called on voters to throw out the politicians who voted for it. "If you are angry about what happened in Texas tonight -- and what's happening in other states all around the country -- there is something you can do about it," spokeswoman Dawn Laguens said. "Register to vote, and vote for candidates who will protect women's access to health care." Read more: North Carolina House passes restrictive abortion bill . CNN's AnneClaire Stapleton contributed to this report . | NEW: Planned Parenthood decries vote in Texas and similar votes in other states .
It originally failed to gain approval because of a filibuster by Democratic Sen. Wendy Davis .
Republican Gov. Rick Perry is expected to sign the bill .
Critics of the measure say it would shut down most abortion clinics in Texas . |
175,119 | 6eab470fc321230a44aa5cc41aabc5ffeb1b1ee0 | By . Ashley Collman . A discharged Marine who strung himself from a ten-foot cross during Denver's 4/20 celebration on Sunday now regrets the protest which has been branded by many as sacriligious. Former recruiter Joshua Klohr was kicked out of the Corps last year after complaining about the job to superiors. Klohr was subsequently court-martialled and found guilty of insubordinate conduct, disobeying a superior officer and failure to obey an order. On Sunday, he sought to draw attention to his plight so he strung himself up on the cross across from the Colorado state capital building while the rest of the city celebrated it's first legal marijuana holiday. Making a statement: Ex-Marine Joshua Klohr hung himself from a ten-foot cross across from Denver's state capitol on Sunday while the rest of the city was celebrating the first legal marijuana holiday . But when pictures of the exhibition started popping up online, the reaction was mostly unsympathetic. 'I feel like the imagery of Christ and his point (what I've gathered anyway) are two very unrelated things,' Maximilian Uriarte wrote on his web page. Kicked out: Klohr was hoping the demonstration would draw attention to his discharge, which he believes was unjust . Even as an art piece, Christ implies martyrdom, he's just using it as "shock value." He's not a martyr, he's just a dude that got a court martial and f***** over.' In an interview with the Marine Corps Times on Monday, Klohr quickly apologized for the display, saying he now regrets his actions. 'I don’t want people to talk me up on websites as this disrespectful person,' he said. 'I wasn’t trying to be disrespectful or anything ... To get people to see how serious I am I had to do something extreme.' He added that the demonstration was not intended to be sacriligious or insulting and that his ultimate goal is to secure a presidential pardon and shed light on practices in Marine Corps recruiting. Klohr's troubles started last year when he was working as a Marine recruiter in Boulder and having a hard time making goals, despite working 14-16 hour days. He says he refused to 'fraud' enlistees by ignoring certain factors that would make them inelligble for service. When he told his superiors that he could not do what was required of him in the job, they interpretted it as him quitting and he was sent to a court-martial trial. Klohr alleges that he wasn't allowed to testify in his defense and he was subsequently found guilty of insubordinate conduct, disobeying a superior officer and failure to obey an order. He was demoted to private, sentenced to one month in the brig and discharged. However, Klohr admits that he himself hid information that would have kept him from service. He says he was expelled from school, had asthama and even a criminal record. While he says he refused to 'fraud' enlistees by ignoring things that would disqualify them from service, Klohr admits he too hid information to get into the corps - including setting a cat on fire in 2005. Pictured above in a photo posted on his Facebook . In 2005, when he was 18, Kohlr was charged for setting a cat on fire and throwing the animal off a roof. After his demonstration on Sunday, he could face further federal charges for wearing his dress blues even though he was been expelled from service, . A Marine Corps spokesman says they have no jurisdiction over him since he is discharged, but that a federal prosecutor could bring up the charges. | Former Marine recruiter Joshue Klohr was kicked out of the service last year after complaining about his job .
He was subsequently court-martialed and discharged .
On Sunday, he dressed in his old uniform and strung himself up on a ten-foot cross to draw attention to his 'unjust' dismissal .
But after receiving criticism online for the demonstration, Klohr says he now regrets the show .
He could also face federal charges for wearing the Marine uniform, since he is no longer in the military . |
72,292 | cced5cc01bf44ef60a30f05ae0903fcace9d38b9 | By . Matt Chorley, Mailonline Political Editor . The cost of applying for a driving licence is to be slashed by up to a third under plans being announced today. New drivers who want their first licence will pay just £34, down from the current £50. The price of renewing licences and the fee for tacographs will also be cut under efforts to ease the cost of motoring. The coalition has long argued it is ending the war on the motorist, curbing parking fines and cutting the duty on petrol and diesel. New transport minister Claire Perry, promoted in this month's reshuffle, will today launch a consultation on the plans to dramatically cut the cost of a driving licence, . She said: 'The cost of driving can be significant, especially for new drivers. 'I’m pleased to say that we are planning to save drivers £18million a year by cutting licence fees, thanks to the DVLA making significant savings to their running costs.' Drivers who apply online for their first driving licence would see the fee drop from £50 to £34. Drivers who renew their licence after 10 years would see the fee drop from £20 to £14. The online reduction is 32 per cent and the paper application reduction is 15 per cent. All driver tachograph cards would fall from £38 to £32. The Department for Transport expects the changes to save drivers nearly £18 million and the industry around £2 million every year. Transport minister Claire Perry said young drivers were especially affected by the high cost of motoring . Lib Dem Chief Secretary to the Treasury Danny Alexander said: 'I have been working hard to drive savings across the whole public sector and it's great to see the benefit of these efficiencies feed through to drivers and businesses' pockets. What the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) have shown today is that you can do more for less.' DVLA is currently reviewing all the fees they charge to motorists. Today's consultation is the first step in this ongoing review. The consultation closes on August 25 2014 and the Government is hoping to introduce the new fees by the end of October 2014. | First licence application to fall from £50 to £34 as part of DVLA review .
Transport minister Claire Perry says it will help young drivers with costs . |
256,251 | d7b0a98638748d669976bae018e26b90b808d2fb | By . Lucy Crossley . PUBLISHED: . 07:34 EST, 18 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 12:39 EST, 18 November 2013 . Delay: Paramedics were made to wait 26 minutes to treat stroke victim Leslie Coombs, 89, as managers would not let them enter his sheltered accommodation room . Paramedics were prevented from tending to a stroke victim after care home managers refused to let them enter his room because it breached company policy. Leslie Coombs who was a mechanic in WWII collapsed while he was on the phone to insurers The AA after he called them about repairs to his car. The AA operator quickly dialled 999 and . paramedics rushed to the 89-year-old's room at the Jubilee Court sheltered housing complex . in Strelley, near Nottingham. However, when the ambulance crew arrived, staff would not let them enter the room, and they were made to wait for 26 minutes until a warden arrived with a spare key. A telephone operator also refused to give paramedics . the code for a wall-mounted safe which contained a master key because . it was 'against company policy'. Frightened Mr Coombs was screaming for help through the letter box, while paramedics were forced to wait on the other side of the door. When a warden finally arrived with a . master key, paramedics entered the room and rushed Mr Coombs, who served . as an RAF mechanic in Singapore during World War Two, to hospital where . he died of a heart attack nine days later. His family have accused the . managers of the sheltered housing complex, run by Places for People, . of endangering the lives of residents. His daughter Glenis Riley, 66, is considering taking legal action against Nottingham City Homes, which runs the out-of-hours service for Places for People. 'My father was fit and healthy for his age but I strongly believe the stress of being left on the floor in his room while paramedics were outside caused his death,' said Mrs Riley, a retired community care worker. 'He was on the phone to the AA about his car when he suffered a stroke. 'The operator called 999 and my father tried to get to the front door so he could open it for the paramedics. 'He always locked himself in because there had been a few burglaries in the area but he was always confident if he did collapse someone would help because they kept a master key on the premises at all times. Restricted: Out of hours staff at Jubilee Court refused to give paramedics the code to access a master key. Eventually Mr Coombs was taken to hospital, but later died of a heart attack . 'When the paramedics did arrive they were talking to my dad through the letter box. 'He was shouting ‘For God’s sake help me’ but they had to explain they had to wait. 'One of the paramedics called the operator of the complex to ask for the code to the key safe by the entrance but they wouldn’t give it to him. 'Apparently the operator said they could not be sure it really was the paramedic and it was therefore against company policy to hand the code out to them. Anger: Mr Coombs's daughter, Glenis Riley said she was 'disgusted' at the treatment her father received . 'Part of me thinks the paramedics should have kicked the door down but they were in a very difficult position. 'You expect when your dad is in a housing complex they will make sure there is a fast way of getting into his room if he is in trouble but my dad was left stranded on the floor because of these jobsworths.' Mr Coombs, who had seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren moved into the complex in 1999 after his wife Florence died of cancer aged 66. After his stroke on October 12 this year, he was taken to the Queen’s Medical Centre in Nottingham and later transferred to Nottingham City Hospital where he suffered a fatal heart attack on October 21. Mrs Riley, from Bingham, Nottingham, said: 'I am disgusted at what my father had to go through during his final days. 'He had been living in that complex since 1990 and was an able man, he did his own shopping and he drove his own car. 'To think he was lying there helpless in his bedroom while the ambulance crew were on the other side of the door is shocking, no one should have to go through that. 'I have had various people sending through their condolences but I want answers into why more couldn’t have been done. 'I am thankful for the AA contacting the right people and trying to help my father, but after that, not enough was done for him. 'He is and will be missed, he was a father-of-two, grandfather-of-seven, great-grandfather-of-two with one on the way that he never got the chance to hear about. 'More needs to be done so that this doesn’t happen to other families because we are very angry about what happened, we’re furious. 'When he first moved into the complex, there was a warden on site, although through the years the warden disappeared, maybe they should bring a warden back so these incidents can be dealt with quicker.' Both Nottingham City Homes and Places for People launched have investigations into the treatment of Mr Coombs. Hero: Mr Coombs, pictured left as an air cadet, served as an RAF mechanic in Singapore, right, during WWII . A Nottingham City Homes spokesman said: 'We are already speaking with Places for People to see if they require us to make any changes to the contracted emergency response procedure we have with them.' She added that the mobile operator reached the property within 26 minutes which is inside the 30 minute target for responding to emergencies. Kim Scott, director at Places for People Individual Support, added: 'The safety of our customers is of the utmost importance and we are reviewing the current process together with Nottingham City Homes and the emergency services. 'If changes are required these will be made as a priority.' Simon Cook, of the Stroke Association, said time was of the essence when dealing with stroke victims. He said: 'When a stroke strikes the brain is starved of oxygen and as a result brain cells in the affected area die. 'The sooner patients receive treatment, the more likely they are to make a better recovery.' An East Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: 'Paramedics had problems reaching Mr Coombs. 'Paramedics would only break a door down to get to patients as a last resort.' | Leslie Coombs, 89, collapsed in his sheltered accommodation room .
Staff made paramedics wait 26 minutes while they fetched a key .
Mr Coombs was eventually taken to hospital, but later died of a heart attack . |
69,401 | c4c685af6be2a1c304bf9a32315df663f6b405aa | The Indonesian man who was known as Schapelle Corby's boyfriend has faced a Bali court for the first time since he was arrested for being in possession of marijuana nearly three months ago. Bernard P. Simanjunta, commonly referred to as Ben Panangian, admitted handling the drug and told the Denpasar District Court on Tuesday he would be representing himself during his trial. He also denied being romantically involved with convicted Australian drug smuggler Schapelle Corby, saying he only knows her 'as a friend'. Scroll down for video . Indonesian police arrested Bernard P. Simanjunta (pictured in orange) for possessing nine grams of cannabis on August 20 . The 32-year-old also denied being romantically involved with convicted Australian drug smuggler Schapelle Corby, saying he only knows her 'as a friend' It comes after Panagian was allegedly caught with marijuana when he was searched on a Bali street on August 20 and later found more in his wardrobe. Police said they seized a total of nine grams of cannabis and arrested him. Panangian, 32, acknowledged the police statement were correct during his first day of trial, the Sydney Morning Herald reports. When one of the judges on the panel questioned him twice about his relationship status with Corby, Panagian was adamant that the infamous Australian is just a friend. 'Friend or friend?' the judge asked. 'I know her just as a friend,' Panangian said. Also known as Ben Panangian, he told the Denpasar District Court on Tuesday that he would be representing himself during his trial . Corby and Panagian (pictured together) have been linked as early as 2006 after meeting in jail while both were serving time for drug offences . Corby was released from Bali's Kerobokan Prison five months ago after serving nine years in jail for couriering 4.2 kilograms of cannabis to Indonesia . Corby was released from Bali's Kerobokan Prison five months ago after serving nine years in jail for couriering 4.2 kilograms of marijuana to Indonesia in her boogie board bag in 2004. She was stopped by officers at Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar and was sentenced 20 years behind bars in 2005. She was later granted a five-year sentence reduction. Corby reportedly met Panangian, who had been locked up for drug charges, when they were both inmates serving time in prison. While imprisoned, Corby claimed she suffered from extreme depression and shared with a psychiatrist her thoughts on suicide. Her parole conditions state that she must not be involved with crime. Following his arrest in August, Corby's mother Rosleigh Rose has since claimed to Nine News that her daughter is not dating Panangian. Her denial comes despite Corby and Panagian being linked as early as 2006 after meeting in jail while both were serving time for drug offences, according to The Australian Women's Weekly. At the time of Panangian's arrest, police said they had no plans to investigate Corby because the pair's relationship is unclear. Corby lives with her sister, Mercedes, in the tourist area of Kuta. It's believed she now works at her sister's surfboard and swimwear shop on the island. Panangian faces a maximum of 12 years in prison if he is found guilty, the Herald Sun previously reported. | Indonesian police arrested Bernard P. Simanjunta for possessing nine grams of cannabis on August 20 .
Also known as Ben Panangian, he told the Denpasar District Court he would represent himself during his trial .
He also denied being in a relationship with Schapelle Corby on Tuesday and said the pair are 'just friends'
Corby was convicted of smuggling drug to in Bali in 2004 .
She was released on parole under the condition she stayed away from drugs and crime . |
64,331 | b6affba68b0f7033782746e8c5241f6919c25154 | By . Kerry Mcdermott . PUBLISHED: . 03:09 EST, 9 April 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 12:40 EST, 9 April 2013 . Two women have been found dead in the home they shared, triggering a major police investigation. The women, named locally as Rachel Clayton, 34, and her girlfriend Emma Speed, 30, were discovered at their terraced house in Macclesfield on Sunday night. The deaths are being treated as 'unexplained', but Cheshire Police have confirmed that nobody else is wanted in connection with the incident. Police investigation: The two women have been named locally as Rachel Clayton, 34 (left), and Emma Speed, 30 (right), who lived together in Crompton Road, Macclesfield . Post mortem examinations were due to take place this morning. Neighbours said emergency services and gas engineers from National Grid were called to the property in Crompton Road at around 8.45pm on Sunday night. No gas was found to be escaping after tests of the gas supply inside and outside the property. The tragedy emerged on Sunday night after Ms Clayton had returned home on three weeks of leave from her job as a chef in the canteen of a North Sea oil rig. Emma Speed, 30, was found dead at a house in Macclesfield on Sunday. It is thought that she recently moved in . She had just bought a new VW Scirocco car and was proudly showing it off to friends on Facebook. The 34-year-old had joked about the forthcoming Manchester derby in messages on the site, and in a recent message said of her imminent holiday: 'Home tomoz thank didily I'm becoming a recluse after 3 weeks in the North Sea'. Her last message was posted on April 5. Neighbour Anne-Marie Pearson said: 'There were lots of police, an ambulance and fire engine. 'The road was blocked off at either end to stop traffic getting in and out. An officer was walking door to door asking everyone to stay inside.' April Bennett, 28, who lives nearby with her nine-month-old son Leo, added: 'It was scary because of the amount of police about. We were told to stay in doors and were asked if we had seen anything suspicious. 'Having no idea what had happened was terrifying, especially with such a young baby in the house.' It is understood the bodies were found by a man known to both women who had a spare key to house. Forensic officers spent most of yesterday at the house. Ms Clayton is believed to have lived at the house for several years and Ms Speed is understood to have moved in recently. Ms Clayton's parents Malcolm and Susan, of Poynton, were last night too upset to talk. Scene: Police cars are seen outside the terraced property in Crompton Road where the two women were found on Sunday night . Neighbour Jennifer Hurst, 32, of Crompton Road, said: 'I knew Rachel to say hello to every now and again and she just seemed like a very happy, cheerful person. It's so sad. Neighbour Jennifer Hurst . 'She bought the house a few years ago and seemed to be doing a lot of work to it so you'd see her popping in and out. She seemed to keep herself to herself but seemed very pleasant as well. 'I think everyone's just in a bit of a state of disbelief. There was a lot of commotion at the time but we never thought it would be something as tragic as this.' Sue Taylor, who runs the Bargain Booze store on nearby Chester Road, said Ms Clayton was a regular customer at the store. She said: 'She was a lovely girl, very bubbly and nice to talk to. We were talking about her work on the rigs last week. She described it as hard work and very cold, especially recently. It is so sad.' | Women named locally as couple Rachel Clayton and Emma Speed .
Discovered at terraced house in Macclesfield on Sunday night .
Nobody else is wanted in connection with deaths, Cheshire Police said .
Gas engineers from National Grid found no gas escaping from property . |
182,775 | 78b49fd4defa1a402f3a0cb6a3360d0d30a07319 | By . Alex Greig . PUBLISHED: . 00:12 EST, 10 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 00:12 EST, 10 January 2014 . A Virginia court has ruled that the identities of seven anonymous reviewers who criticized a local carpet cleaning business must be revealed. In a decision that will strike fear in the hearts of all anonymous online trolls, an Alexandria judge ruled on Tuesday that Yelp must comply with the demand of Joe Hadeed's attorneys and hand over the names of the reviewers. Alexandria-based Hadeed Carpet Cleaning was the subject of several negative reviews on the site by anonymous authors - who Hadeed claims were not real customers of his business. Bad reviews: Business owner Joe Hadeed (left, with Virginia governor McDonnell) wants to sue anonymous reviewers of his carpet cleaning business for defamation . If he is correct and the customers are not genuine, Yelp's Terms of Service will have been violated, and the comments will not be protected under the First Amendment. The case began in 2012 when several negative reviews were left on Hadeed Carpet's Yelp page, some claiming the company swindled customers, overcharging hundreds of dollars above the quoted price, while others said their carpets ended up looking worse than before they were cleaned. Joe Hadeed could find no record that the reviewers were actual customers and sued the authors of seven negative reviews and subpoenaed Yelp for their identities. According to the Courthouse News Service, Yelp refused several times and was help in contempt of court. On Tuesday, the Virginia Court of Appeals agreed two to one, that Yelp must identify the anonymous reviewers. Yelp's Terms of Service requires that reviewers must have been a customer of a business to leave a review. Bad opinion: The company's Yelp page has seven negative anonymous reviews from 2012 which Hadeed says cannot be matched to any customer . The company does not require users to register with their full name, but does record the IP address of each review posted. 'The Virginia statute makes the judge a gatekeeper to decide whether or not there’s a common sense reason for someone in our position to get this information,' Raighne Delaney, a lawyer at the Arlington firm Bean, Kinney & Korman who represent Hadeed, told the Washington Times. 'In order for someone like Joe Hadeed to find out who these people are, he has to explain his case, and if he can convince the judge that there might be a real lawsuit against this person, the judge can then say, "Yes, you can get this information,"' said Delaney. If the negative reviews were written by people who were never customers of Hadeed, he will sue for defamation. Small business: The company cleans and repairs carpets and rugs . The non-profit advocacy group Public Citizen that represents Yelp says reviewers should not have to reveal their identities when expressing opinions protected by the First Amendment and that Hadeed should have to at least prove that the reviews were false before the identities are handed over. Yelp's lawyers say Hadeed did not meet nationwide standards necessary to uncover the anonymous users, but the court disagreed. 'Yelp said that all the posts had different IP addresses, but how many IP addresses does one person have between all their devices?' said Hadeed’s attorney, Raighne Delaney, to the Washington Times. 'It would be easy to create a number of different fake accounts.' In a 25-page majority opinion, Judge William G. Petty said, 'Generally, a Yelp review is entitled to First Amendment protection because it is a person’s opinion about a business that they patronized. 'The anonymous speaker has the right to express himself on the Internet without the fear that his veil of anonymity will be pierced for no other reason than because another person disagrees with him,' Judge Petty wrote. However, the court said that First Amendment rights do not cover deliberately false statements and agreed that Hadeed provided sufficient reason to believe the users may not have been customers of Hadeed Carpet Cleaning. | A Virginia court has ordered Yelp to reveal the identities of the anonymous authors of seven negative reviews .
The reviews were left for local business Hadeed's Carpet Cleaning .
Owner Joe Hadeed cannot match the reviews to customers and says he believes the author/s were never clients of his business .
If that is true, the reviewer/s are not protected under the First Amendment and also violated the terms of Yelp .
Hadeed intends to sue the author/s for defamation . |
281,523 | f8ad5229b38c74d03faf68bfd84d36a485b16207 | (CNN) -- "The Borgias" are back for a second season and according to star Jeremy Irons we can expect even more nefarious plotting and lustful encounters. The 63-year-old actor has had a long career including an Academy Award for "Reversal of Fortune" and voicing the malevolent Scar in "The Lion King." He recently spoke to CNN about playing a pope and his not-so-secret vice. CNN: What can we expect this season? Jeremy Irons: You can expect a good ride, a naughty ride, a good ride. I think you can expect an even more exciting ride than last season. It's perkier; it's faster with a lot of surprises. CNN: When you first signed up, were you worried that it would be historical soft porn? Irons: No, because I know Showtime, I know Neil Jordan. I thought that we'd avoid that and I think we have. CNN: The show is like "The Sopranos" in the Vatican. Irons: I would say that's right. CNN: The characters are pretty venal. Irons: Yes life was more on the edge. Life was not valued quite as highly as it is today. People were used to fighting, people were used to dying. Death was much more a part of life than it is today. Children and women would die in childbirth. Men would die. The whole perception was different. CNN: You play a pope who has children. Would you be surprised if it was discovered that Pope Benedict has kids? Irons: Um, not particularly (laughs). CNN: Your voice is like catnip to the ladies. Irons: I don't think about it. You use what you've got! Before I was married I didn't sound like this because I didn't smoke so much. CNN: So smoking is good for actors? Irons: Well in truth, to be serious, I suppose it's not particularly good, but it does give me huge pleasure and allows me time for reflection. If I did yoga perhaps I wouldn't have to, but I don't. I go outside and have a smoke and I find those gaps in the hurly burly of the film world very useful. CNN: Is the cigarette accompanied by a cup of tea and a chocolate biscuit? Irons: Often (speaking with a full mouth). There's a chocolate biscuit in my mouth at the moment and a cup of tea but no cigarette. But there will be one in a minute. CNN: Your son Max ("Red Riding Hood") is gorgeous! Irons: That's very nice. He takes after his mother. CNN: I have little kids. I think I've seen "The Lion King" 30 times. Irons: There's something wrong with you. CNN: Do you get people coming up to you with your kids? Irons: I do and the kids sort of look at me so embarrassed. Scar is a lion on the screen for them. They stand there looking long suffering while their parents make me write them an autograph. CNN: What's your favorite movie? Irons: It's strange because it's always the experience of making it that's the great thing. Making "The Mission" was fantastic, making "Dead Ringers" was a great experience, making "Lolita" was a great experience. Making "The Borgias" is a great experience. We have a lot of fun, great crew, great cast, shooting in a fantastic city, Budapest. I get up and I'm really pleased to work and that's what I'll remember. In a way, it never has much actually to do with what the movie's like. CNN: Budapest is a beautiful city. Irons: I like the youth of the city and it has a slightly crumbly nature about it because they haven't quite got the money to finish everything off. | Jeremy Irons plays Rodrigo Borgia, a Pope, in "The Borgias"
The actor voiced the malevolent Scar in "The Lion King"
"Making 'The Borgias' is a great experience, we have a lot of fun," Irons said . |
161,054 | 5c33936b1ecb2b182dd175253991df62fe41b81b | By . Paul Donnelley . Robber: Daniel Holland had attempted the robbery weeks after being released from prison eight years into a life sentence for a spate of robberies . This is a moment a silver-haired shop assistant got the better of a burly, masked robber during a scuffle. The brave woman, aged in her late 50s, was confronted by armed thug Daniel Holland when he burst into a Tesco Express store just as she opened the doors at 5.30am. The diminutive assistant grabbed hold of Holland and grappled with him on the shop floor. CCTV images of the attack show the have-a-go heroine clinging on to Holland as he pushed her inside the shop. But the woman, who is about 5ft tall and has not been named, soon turned the tables on the robber, pinning him up against a counter until support arrived from her colleague. The male manager of the store in West Moors near Ferndown, Dorset, grabbed the plastic pipe Holland was wielding and used it to beat him around the head. Holland, who is 5ft 8ins tall, was wearing a black beanie hat with eye holes cut out but he was forced to remove it after the tussle to catch his breath. In doing so he showed his face to the security cameras, helping police to identify him. Holland left the plastic pipe and the hat at the scene and police were able to secure DNA evidence from it to help convict the robber. Masked thug Daniel Holland bursts into a Tesco Express in West Moors near Ferndown, Dorset as it opens at 5.30am . The white-haired shop assistant grabs Daniel Holland as he tries to rob Tesco . Showing no sense of fear, the old lady pushes Holland against a counter and holds him there . The thugs tries to escape from the shop assistant's grasp but she determinedly hangs on . Shaven-headed Holland, 58, from Ferndown, was on licence after being released from prison eight years into a life sentence for a spate of robberies. He was jailed for four years at Bournemouth Crown Court after pleading guilty to attempted robbery and carrying a knife.DC James Lees, from Dorset Police, said: ‘The offender came into the store holding the plastic pipe. ‘He had a short tussle with a female member of staff, after which he removed his balaclava. ‘A male staff member then ran over and took the plastic pipe off him and used it to hit him in the face. ‘The offender then ran off. The whole thing only lasted a couple of minutes. To the rescue: The Tesco manager arrives on the scene as Daniel Holland pulls off his hat to show his face to the CCTV cameras . Take that: The Tesco manager (right) uses a plastic pipe Daniel Holland was wielding and used it to beat him around the head . ‘I commend the prompt action and bravery of the store staff that enabled a swift police response. ‘Good witness accounts aided a thorough police investigation which successfully brought the offender to justice.’ Leslie Smith, defending, said Holland had warned the authorities that he hadn’t received enough help to combat a serious gambling addiction. Mr Smith said: ‘He managed to abstain from gambling for around only six to eight weeks [after being released], and then he gambled away his pension and all the savings in his account.’ | Daniel Holland, 58, from Ferndown, was on licence after being released from prison eight years into a life sentence for a spate of robberies .
Forced his way into shop at 5.30am but did not reckon with brave woman .
Holland has a gambling problem and claimed authorities did not do enough to help him . |
251,384 | d1633a43ca21a038dec221710a4edd317dab7c0a | Few books truly invade a national psyche. When a work manages to do so for 1,000 years, it's a pretty spectacular feat. Enter "Shahnameh", or Book of Kings, a literary epic so large (the largest, in fact) that it measures the length of Homer's "Iliad" and "Odyssey" combined. It is one of Iran's national treasures, and holds a place next to the Quran in many Iranian households. It is difficult to overestimate the importance of "Shanameh" in Iranian culture. Even today, it remains a staple in the canon of bedtime literature read to children. It is among the first books taught in Iranian classrooms. Political candidates will reference parables from the tome in election speeches. As noted by the Wall Street Journal, during the protests that characterized the 2009 elections, demonstrators adopted the chant, "We are all Sohrab," a reference both to a 19-year old victim killed by security forces, and to one of poem's tragic heroes. Almost as impressive as the text itself is the commitment of its author. A Persian poet by the name of Ferdowsi dedicated 30 years of his life to collecting folklore, mythologies and oral histories and turning it into 60,000 rhyming couplets. Today, Ferdowsi has found a disciple in the form of Hamid Rahmanian, a Brooklyn-based Iranian filmmaker who has logged over 10,000 hours illustrating an elaborate new English translation. "He didn't have a computer," quips Rahmanian. "If he did, it wouldn't have taken him 30 years." Rather than sketch the book from scratch, Rahmanian crafted together thousands of images of Persian art and painstakingly layered them in what amounts to a 500-page collage. "I wanted to introduce the visual culture of the Persians and create something modern," he explains. Interactive: Press freedom in the Middle East . "Painting struck me as very passé; no one sits down and paints anymore. I wanted to be like a DJ, but instead of collecting sound and music and changing the tempo or tone to create a new composition, I would use lithographs and miniatures from the 14th to early 19th century." Sheila Canby, the curator of Islamic Art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, has dubbed Rahmanian's version "the 'Shahnameh' of the digital age". "His is both a departure and an evolution," she says. "The book is slick and modern, and very much informed by the visual universe of the internet and TV and film." Ahmad Sadri, the chairman of the Islamic World Studies Department at Illinois' Lake Forest College, provided the English translation, and -- along with Rahmanian's wife, Melissa Hibbard -- helped to bring the language alive for 21st century, English-speaking audiences. "This is the world that has been used to the language of movies for 100 years -- since the invention of American film. The people we are trying to reach are used to fanciful stories like 'Lord of the Rings' and 'Star Wars.' I couldn't pretend that they didn't already have that exposure," explains Sadri. "To keep the reader hooked and addicted to the narrative, Melissa and I made the decision to tell a character-driven, rather than event-driven story." Read more: Arab cartoonists court controversy . While Western readers may have had limited contact with the epic, several of the tales encapsulated in the work should look familiar. In one love story, the hero, Zaul, meets his beloved by climbing up her ladder-like locks. The stars of that tale are also star-crossed in a similar manner to their romantic successors, Romeo and Juliet. Other narratives have elements of "Oedipus Rex" and even Tarzan (the orphaned babe raised by wild animals). What Sadri finds most fascinating, however, is the role of women in the saga. "It's amazing, because they're anything but passive," he notes. "The women in these stories basically hunt and sexually conquer their men. They are advisers -- not shy to offer their opinion. There are villainous women and heroic women." Perhaps one of the most riveting stories, though, is that of Ferdowsi himself, who after dedicating his life to collecting stories, died bankrupt and embittered. It is a situation that Rahmanian can appreciate. He funded much of the project himself, and during the nearly four years he worked on it, was pulling in little else by way of an income. Halfway through the project, Hibbard fell pregnant. "Two weeks before my daughter was born, I had $27.37 in my bank account. I told Melissa take a screen shot," he recalls. "You have to have a certain passion and love and belief to sit down with no money and make something like that," he says. | The Shahnameh, a 1,000-year old Persian epic, is a cultural mainstay in Iran.
Iranian filmmaker Hamid Rahmanian recently made a contemporary, illustrated version.
Each page is composed of thousands of parts scanned from Persian miniatures and lithographs.
The story is made up of strong women who "sexually conquer" their men. |
278,591 | f4e1cf28593d22babfc6abf728fdce7ccafad68d | (CNN) -- Martin Brodeur was unstrapping his goaltending pads after another victory, about to be rushed to a TV interview, when a reporter on deadline made a request. Could he answer just one quick question? "Yes, I'm 40," Brodeur cracked, predicting the question before it could be asked. "For some reason, that's a big deal." Well, it actually is, and the reason is simple: Brodeur couldn't celebrate the milestone -- his birthday was May 6 -- because he was too busy notching another win en route to leading the New Jersey Devils to the Eastern Conference Finals. And now, as the playoffs move to the final two rounds, Brodeur has a chance to win the Stanley Cup at an age when most players already have hung up their skates and picked up their golf clubs. Turning 40 usually means collecting your gag gifts and waking up with a hangover and a realization: You're not as young as you used to be. For Brodeur, it means doing what he's done his entire adult life: winning hockey games at the highest level in the sport. No goaltender in NHL history has won more games than Brodeur: His 656 career victories are 105 more than Patrick Roy, who is second on the list. The next active goaltender on the all-time list, Roberto Luongo, has just 339, so it's a record that may never be broken. And no one has appeared in a playoff game in his teens and his 40s, which became another line on Brodeur's long résumé this week. He is the definition of longevity, and he's not just hanging on by the edge of his skates, either. Watch Brodeur's greatest saves . "You go out, and you compete against players that are such a young age," Brodeur said during the Devils' second-round series against the Flyers, which they won in five games. "I'm more than twice the age of (Devils rookie defenseman) Adam Larsson. I mean, you kind of shake your head a little bit. "But you're able to play at a level when you're having fun and you're able to compete in a league you always wanted to play and still be able to keep going. For me, I don't take anything for granted. I appreciate every moment, especially this year. It's been awesome for me." Brodeur has spent his entire career outside the limelight. That comes with the territory of playing in the NHL, the least popular of the four major U.S. sports leagues, and playing for the Devils, who lack the following of their rivals across the Hudson River, the New York Rangers. The Devils, despite their continued success, are rarely picked for national TV games. That doesn't diminish what he could accomplish this spring. When Brodeur won his first Stanley Cup, he was just 23. Now, if the Devils continue their hot streak through the playoffs, he could win his fourth at 40. That would be a 17-year gap between his first title and his last one. There aren't many athletes who can match that, but two who did -- Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Babe Ruth -- are recognized amongst the greatest in sports history. Brodeur is certainly among hockey's greatest. Along with his three Stanley Cups (1995, 2000, 2003), he's won two Olympic gold medals (2002, 2010) and the Vezina Trophy as the league's top goalie four times (2003, 2004, 2007, 2008). His ability to handle the puck behind the net changed the sport, leading to a rule change that restricted where goalies could play the puck. His critics have said that Brodeur benefited from the Devils' defensive approach for years. But his former role model -- who later became his biggest rival -- thought that argument was unfair. "I remember in the playoffs, he once said he was facing more critics than shots," said Roy, who owns most of the NHL goaltending records that Brodeur doesn't have. "I thought it was a nice way to deal with the pressure. From the outside watching him, he almost makes it look easy, but I know how tough it is." Roy retired in 2003, when he was 37. Brodeur is in the final year of his contract but has said he's leaning toward coming back next year -- his 20th in a Devils uniform -- "if they're going to take me back." He said he's having too much fun to stop now. "You have to enjoy what you do," he said. "I've been here for so long that I've had different roles regardless of me playing or not playing. Just watching guys and helping guys during their careers to make the right decisions. You have to think the right way and go through hurdles for success." The 40-year-old goaltender is doing what's he's done for two decades now: winning hockey games. About the only time he shows his age is when he counted the candles on the birthday cake from his family. There were only about 20 of them. "Couldn't find a big enough cake, I guess," he said with a laugh. | New Jersey Devils goalie Martin Brodeur turned 40 on May 6 .
He couldn't celebrate because he was about to lead the Devils to the Eastern Conference Finals .
Steve Politi: "No goaltender in NHL history has won more games than Brodeur"
He won his first Stanley Cup at 23; he could win his fourth at an age most players are retired . |
107,700 | 16d8dd8d9482b2efd9f982df8ec95af34e3d8c75 | By . David Kent . Louis van Gaal claims he 'taught Sergio Romero how to save penalties' when he managed the Argentina goalkeeper at AZ Alkmaar - and now the stopper's shoot-out saves have seen Holland knocked out of the World Cup. Romero was Argentina’s hero as La Albiceleste beat Holland on penalties in Sao Paulo to reach the World Cup final, keeping the Dutch at bay for 120 minutes before saving from Ron Vlaar and Wesley Sneijder. Argentina will take on Germany in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday but here, Sportsmail reveals all you need to know about Romero. VIDEO Scroll down to watch animation of Argentina and Holland's best World Cup goals . Master and apprentice? Holland coach Louis van Gaal (left) claims he taught Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero, who saved two spot-kicks, how to save penalties while managing him at AZ Alkmaar . Hero: Romero was the star of the show for Argentina, saving two penalties during the shoot-out . Elation: Romero celebrates after Argentina beat Holland 4-2 on penalties to reach the final . Coming back to haunt him: Van Gaal claims to have taught Romero how to save penalties . VIDEO Argentina scrape into fifth final . So, who is this Sergio Romero? Romero is Argentina's number one and has been the preferred choice of Alejandro Sabella during the coach's tenure. He spent last season on loan at Monaco from his parent club Sampdoria, for who he signed in 2011. The 27-year-old was far from first choice, however, and made just three league appearances last season for the principality club. In fact, Holland coach Louis van Gaal will have known all about Romero before the World Cup semi-final as he coached the goalkeeper to the Eredevisie title in 2009 with AZ Alkmaar. Oh how he came back to haunt his former manager with two splendid saves in the shoot-out. Borrowed: Romero spent last season on loan at French club Monaco from his parent side Sampdoria . Commanding: Romero comes to meet a corner during the semi-final win over Holland . Has he come from nowhere? Even though he may not have been first choice at Monaco last season he is an experienced goalkeeper. He has 51 caps for the Argentine national side and made his debut in 2009. He has been first choice more or less ever since, including playing during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Romero has also played the best part of 160 league games through his career so he is far from inexperienced. Experienced: Romero has 51 Argentina caps and also played in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa . Reaching new heights: Romero has been Argentina's number one ever since his debut in 2009 . Where else has he played? Racing Club de Avellandea (Argentina, 2006-07) AZ Alkmaar (Holland, 2007-09) Sampdoria (Italy, 2009-present) Monaco (France, loan, 2013-14) Familiar: Romero (right) won the Dutch Eredivisie title under Van Gaal for AZ Alkmaar in 2009 . Has he won anything? Yes, he has both international and club honours. As previously mentioned he won the 2008-09 Eredivisie title under Van Gaal's guidance and the Dutchman said he taught Romero how to save penalties during that time. He also won a gold medal at the 2008 Olympics for Argentina in Beijing alongside Lionel Messi, as well as the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in 2007. Glory: Romero (right) won 2008 Olympic gold for Argentina in Beijing alongside Lionel Messi (left) Repeat performance? Romero (centre) holds aloft the 2007 Under-20 World Cup . What about his WAG? He is married to model and actress Eliana Guercio. She is famed in Argentina for performing one of her shows completely naked... WAG: Romero's wife is Argentinian actress and model Eliana Guercio, who once appeared in a programme naked . Anything else? Sporting success seems to run in the family. Romero's brother is a professional basketball player who previously played for Florida State University. Romero has a four-year-old daughter with wife Guercio called Yazmin. Top drawer: Romero made two wonderful saves during the penalty shoot-out victory . It runs in the family: Romero's brother is a professional basketball player back in Argentina . Elation: Romero (right) roars with delight after saving Wesley Sneijder's spot-kick . | Van Gaal coached Romero to the Eredivisie title with AZ Alkmaar in 2009 .
He claims to have 'taught Sergio Romero how to save penalties'
Romero saved two spot-kicks as Argentina beat Holland 4-2 on penalties .
Argentina will play Germany in World Cup final at Maracana on Sunday .
It will be the third time Argentina have met Germany in a World Cup final .
Sportsmail reveals all you need about Argentina's shoot-out hero . |
135,435 | 3b3722d2cc722b22e76b1804c744d018fa0fc5e8 | Jeb Bush says he has "no problems" pushing policies in a 2016 Republican presidential primary that would allow more legal immigrants. The former Florida governor discussed his position Tuesday on what could be a key issue for conservative voters in a brief interview with NBC's Miami affiliate, just hours after announcing on social media that he will "actively explore" a run for the White House. "You've gotta protect the borders, enforce the law, be respectful of the rule of law, and at the same time, be able to encourage young, aspirational people to come to our country. It's a win-win," Bush said. "I have no problems advancing that idea." Asked whether much of the GOP's conservative base disagrees with Bush's position, he responded: "Well, we'll see. If I run, we'll see." Bush offered no more details on his timeline for a decision, saying that will come "at the proper time." He said he plans to "listen to people and see if my message can resonate, and that will be beginning next year." Bush isn't the only Republican to call for some expansions of U.S. immigration policies. Incoming Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said this month that the United States needs more H1-B visas, which allow companies to bring skilled workers into the country. But calling for expanded immigration is problematic for many conservatives after a summer of reports of an influx of minors across the U.S.-Mexico border, and after President Barack Obama's November decision to halt deportations for millions of undocumented parents of U.S. citizens. Bush blasted Obama's immigration move last month, tweeting that it is an "abuse of power" and going to Facebook to say his "ill-advised unilateral action on illegal immigration undermines all efforts to forge a permanent solution to this crisis. Action must come in the form of bipartisan comprehensive reform passed through Congress." RELATED: Potential Bush bid sways none in GOP field . Those comments could put Bush uncomfortably at odds with similar moves -- though smaller in scope -- by both his father, George H.W. Bush, whose "Family Fairness" policy allowed 1.5 million relatives of newly legalized immigrants to avoid deportation while pursuing legal status, and his brother, George W. Bush, who protected 150,000 Salvadorans from deportation in 2001. The issue blew up on another candidate, Texas Gov. Rick Perry, during his 2012 run for the White House. Defending a Texas law granting in-state tuition to undocumented immigrants, Perry said: "If you say that we should not educate children who have come into our state for no other reason than they've been brought there by no fault of their own, I don't think you have a heart." He was eviscerated by the right, where many conservatives called his position an endorsement of amnesty. It was among several issues that ultimately sank Perry's candidacy. Another potential 2016 Republican candidate, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, could have problems with immigration, as well, after his push for comprehensive legislation drew conservatives' ire. Judge: Obama's immigration move unconstitutional . | Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush says he'd have "no problems" defending his call for "young, aspirational people" to legally immigrate to the United States .
His comments came the day he announced on social media that he will "actively explore" a run for president in 2016 . |
127,967 | 316735317daef0ba1cf7500e0cc5edd923bcab51 | (CNN) -- Former first lady Barbara Bush was admitted Saturday to a hospital in Texas for routine tests, a spokeswoman said. "Mrs Bush is in for some routine tests, not an emergency of any kind," said Jim Appleby, spokesman for former President George H.W. Bush. The former first lady was taken to Methodist Hospital in Houston, Texas. She had not been feeling well for about a week, said Jean Becker, the chief of staff for Bush's husband. Bush, 84, is expected to stay at the hospital for a day or two, Becker said. Details on the testing were not immediately available. Becker, the chief of staff for former President George H.W. Bush, said her hospitalization is "not serious at all." Last year, Bush underwent open-heart surgery during which doctors replaced her aortic valve with a biologic valve. She spent nine days in the hospital afterward. Her recent hospitalization is "not related" to the surgery, Becker said. In November 2008, Bush underwent surgery for a perforated ulcer. CNN's Leslie Tripp and Ed Henry contributed to this report. | Barbara Bush hospitalized in Houston after feeling ill for week, spokeswoman said .
Former first lady to undergo routine tests, hospitalization not considered serious .
Bush had open heart surgery last year . |
40,872 | 7340b4d1381b335a42edc4b054561aa778d81878 | By . Associated Press . The first surgeon general ever forced out of office by the president after he campaigned hard against the dangers of smoking during the Richard Nixon era, died Tuesday, at the age of 87. Dr. Jesse Steinfeld died yesterday morning in a nursing home in suburban Pomona, California, following a stroke he suffered about a month ago. 'He laid the groundwork for us to be better people and make the world a better place,' his daughter Susan Steinfeldm, of La Canada Flintridge, said after announcing his death. Dr. Jesse Steinfeld (left) worked with President Richard Nixon (right) as U.S. Surgeon General from 1969 to 1973, he passed away on Tuesday . Steinfeld was a cancer researcher and taught at the USC medical school before serving as Nixon's surgeon general from 1969-1973. In office, Steinfeld won the ire of the tobacco industry for his stubborn efforts to publicize the hazards of smoking. He changed cigarette package labels that lukewarmly stated tobacco use might be connected to health problems. Steinfeld's label boldly warned: 'The surgeon general has determined that smoking is hazardous to your health.' He issued a report in 1971 that argued for tighter restrictions on smoking in public to protect people from secondhand smoke. Dr. Steinfeld, pictured in 1970, was a strong campaigner about the dangers of smoking . He promoted bans on smoking in restaurants, theaters, planes and other public places - decades before such prohibitions became commonplace. 'It's a good lesson for everyone on how long it takes to change public opinion,' said another daughter, Mary Beth Steinfeld of Sacramento. Steinfeld refused to meet with tobacco industry lobbyists and hung signs around his office that read, 'Thank you for not smoking,' she said. Steinfeld believed his anti-tobacco stance led to Nixon's request for his resignation at the start of Nixon's second term. 'He always used to talk about how he thought the tobacco companies were pressuring Nixon to get rid of him,' Mary Beth Steinfeld said. After Steinfeld left, the position of surgeon general remained vacant until President Jimmy Carter appointed Dr. Julius Richmond in 1977. The only other surgeon general to be forced out of office was Dr. Jocelyn Elders, who was fired in 1994 during President Bill Clinton's administration, the Los Angeles Times reported. Steinfeld was also vocal on other controversial issues, arguing that television violence has a bad influence on children, promoting the fluoridation of water and bans on the artificial sweetener cyclamate and the pesticide DDT. Steinfeld later served as the Director of the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Medical Cancer Center and as a professor at the Mayo Medical School. He also was the president of the Medical College of Georgia, in Augusta, from 1983-1987, when he retired. In addition to his two daughters, Steinfeld is survived by another daughter, Jody Stefansson of Pasadena, California; his wife, Gen, of Pomona, California and two grandchildren. | Dr. Jesse Steinfeld was a cancer researcher before serving as Nixon's surgeon general from 1969-73 .
He issued a report in 1971 that argued for tighter restrictions on smoking in public to protect people .
Steinfeld died in a nursing home a month after suffering a stroke . |
189,382 | 814230c25bee71ba4c8478b2340bf2045b09ff29 | Desperately ill Ashya King was left alone in hospital last night after his parents were locked up for a further 72 hours. Brett and Naghmeh King had begged a Spanish court to be allowed to visit their five-year-old son’s bedside. But a judge ruled they must stay in custody pending a decision on their extradition back to Britain. Lawyers and relatives say the pair are being treated like criminals for smuggling their son abroad to treat his aggressive brain tumour. Scroll down for video . Devoted: The Kings with Ashya at Southampton hospital before they took him to Spain . Ashya’s brothers have also apparently been barred from seeing him in hospital and the family fears his health will deteriorate rapidly without their love. In another day of drama: . Ashya’s parents took him out of Southampton General Hospital last week after reaching deadlock with doctors over his treatment. They fled to Spain where they hoped to sell their holiday home in the Costa del Sol to pay for specialist treatment in the Czech Republic. Mr King, 51, said doctors refused his pleas to consider referring Ashya for the proton beam radiotherapy in Prague and claimed they threatened to get a court order if he interfered with his son’s medical treatment. Arrested: Brett and Naghmeh King (pictured being pushed into a police car outside Velez Malaga police station) appeared before a Madrid court today, accused of neglecting their dying five-year-old son Ashya . On trial: A police van holding Brett and Naghemeh King, sweeps into the National Court in Madrid, Spain this morning ahead of their hearing - they were remanded in custody for a further 72 hours . Cancer sufferer: Terminally ill boy, Ashya, five, was found alive by police in Spain but is under police guard in hospital and his family are banned from seeing him . He and his wife, who have seven children, made it to Spain but were arrested and hauled before an extradition court in Madrid after British police issued a European arrest warrant. The King family’s Spanish lawyer, Juan Isidro Fernandez Diaz, said: ‘The parents are so sad, they are desperate. They have been slandered and their reputation has been destroyed. ‘They are here just to help their child and to get them the best treatment possible. They didn’t abandon England. ‘They didn’t need any permission because if you are a parent you have custody. This couple love their children dearly and much of what’s been said about them is manipulations and lies.’ The lawyer said the Kings’ eldest son Danny, 23, had been allowed to see Ashya in hospital in Malaga yesterday. But another brother Naveed, 20, said none of the family were allowed to see him and a source said all visits would be banned without permission from a judge. The source said Ashya was under police guard and no visits had been approved. Naveed told Channel 4 News: ‘We’re not allowed to go and see Ashya at all. There is police standing outside his hospital room. We are not allowed to go and see him.’ He said it was the first time Ashya had been alone in hospital, adding: ‘His health may deteriorate because he’s not being entertained and [kept] happy.’ Counter-argument: Juan Isidro Fernandez Diaz, laywer for British couple Brett and Naghemeh King speaks to the press outside National Court in Madrid and said the couple were victims of false detention and libel . Friends of the family have organised an online petition calling on Mr Cameron to help the family. By 8pm last night more than 48,000 people had signed it. A public appeal for donations to pay for Ashya’s treatment at a private clinic in Prague had also raised more than £10,000. The Proton Therapy Centre there said it would consider Ashya for treatment immediately if he was eligible, but it would have to be approved by his doctors in Britain or Spain. It confirmed his father had contacted the clinic on August 20 to request the treatment for his tumour, known as a medulloblastoma. Treatment of paediatric tumours at the centre typically costs up to £65,000. Defence: Naveed King said his parents ensured his brother Ashya had exactly the same resources available to him at hospital when they took him to Spain, including this chargeable power-chord for his feeding line . Mr King, who runs a property management company, was said to have researched the clinic online before asking doctors at Southampton General Hospital to refer Ashya there for treatment. In a video blog posted on YouTube before his arrest he said he had pleaded for the proton beam therapy but said doctors said it would not help Ashya’s type of tumour. Mr Diaz said: ‘They will be taking legal action against the doctors who libelled him [Mr King] in the hospital and they will file a criminal complaint for false detention and libel.’ Southampton General Hospital’s medical director Dr Michael Marsh said the hospital had referred patients for proton therapy but it was not suitable for every case. He added: ‘We very much regret the communication and relationship with the King family had broken down. Our first concern is for Ashya’s welfare.’ Mr and Mrs King are expected to appear before the Audiencia National – Spain’s central criminal court – in Madrid again on Thursday to learn if they will be extradited back to Britain. Both are Jehovah’s Witnesses but their family insists their beliefs have not influenced their actions. British police have travelled to Spain and yesterday defended the decision to have the couple arrested. Hampshire Constabulary’s Assistant Chief Constable Chris Shead said he would rather be criticised for ‘being proactive’ than ‘potentially having to explain why a child has lost his life’. | Brett and Nagmeh King took Ashya from Southampton General Hospital .
They are now being held in Madrid for 72 hours after extradition hearing .
They were arrested in the city of Malaga on Saturday after a three-day hunt .
Ashya's grandmother says family has 'begged' to see him but was refused .
Family's lawyer says they are the victims and will sue the NHS and police .
PM has 'sympathy' for parents and says that Ashya's health comes first .
Naveed King posted a new video on YouTube defending his parents .
Ashya’s parents refused to be extradited; .
Lawyers said they may have a case for false imprisonment and wrongful arrest; .
More than 48,000 Britons called on David Cameron to help Ashya’s family; .
His grandmother said police searched her home. |
251,971 | d21eb79e45617ae8e0d3ab202349624b2de26917 | (CNN) -- The controversy over having TV host Bill Maher speak at the University of California Berkeley has taken another turn. Well, make that two. If you remember, the outspoken comedian was selected as the school's 2014 fall commencement speaker, until students incensed by his anti-religious comments -- particularly his views on Islam -- started a petition to have him removed. On Tuesday night, the student group that's tasked with selecting commencement speakers met and voted to withdraw Maher's invitation. That would have been the end of the matter except the very next day, the college said it won't honor the vote. "This university has not in the past and will not in the future shy away from hosting speakers who some deem provocative," the school said. The disinvitation . The student group is called The Californians. It's a committee of undergrads whose role is to come up with graduation speakers. In August, the Californians selected Maher. On Tuesday, it decided to unselect him. But the college says the Tuesday night meeting was held without administration participation. "The UC Berkeley administration cannot and will not accept this decision, which appears to have been based solely on Mr. Maher's opinions and beliefs, which he conveyed through constitutionally protected speech," the school said in a statement. It added that the school's decision shouldn't be taken as an endorsement of Maher's views. "Indeed, the administration's position on Mr. Maher's opinions and perspectives is irrelevant in this context." As so, it said, the invitation stands; Maher will speak at the December event. The reaction . The Council on American-Islamic Relations expressed disappointment at the college's ruling, saying it disrespected students "by casting aside the long-standing process for selecting commencement speakers and instead imposing its own will. "While Mr. Maher has the right to speak whenever and wherever he likes, he does not have the right to have his hate-filled views honored and tacitly endorsed by a prestigious university," said Zahra Billoo, of the group's San Francisco chapter. For his part, Maher's keeping mum. "Every news outlet asking me 4 comment on this Berkeley thing but then i remembered: I'VE got a show!And thats where I'll address it,Fri nite," he tweeted. The controversy . Meanwhile, the petition on Change.org that started the back-and-forth continues to draws signatures. By early Wednesday morning, 4,100 had signed on. "Bill Maher is a blatant bigot and racist who has no respect for the values UC Berkeley students and administration stand for," the petition says. "In a time where climate is a priority for all on campus, we cannot invite an individual who himself perpetuates a dangerous learning environment." The petition points to recent episodes of Maher's HBO show "Real Time" as an example. (HBO, like CNN, is a division of Time Warner.) "Islam is the only religion that acts like the mafia that will f***ing kill you if you say the wrong thing," Maher said during one episode, which is cited on the students' petition as an example of Maher's "hate speech." This isn't the only petition on the site about Maher. Several have called for his firing from "Real Time," though they don't seem to have garnered much traction. Maher has been on the show for 12 years and has become known for his controversial statements on a wide range of topics. One of Maher's favorite targets is organized religion. His 2008 documentary "Religulous" grossed more than $13 million, according to Box Office Mojo. | A student group selected Maher as speaker in August .
On Tuesday night, the group met and voted to disinvite him .
The next day, the college overturned the group's vote . |
23,200 | 41d2b1d2b116528ea0dabb7329d06cba6225ecdf | The next generation of German footballers matched their senior counterparts with another trophy win for the World Cup winners at the Under-19 European Championships. Hertha Berlin midfielder Hany Mukhtar scored the only goal in the final as the Germans saw off Portugal 1-0 in Budapest. It comes at the end of a summer of success which saw the senior side lift the World Cup in Brazil after beating Argentina - and the rest of the world's nations will be looking over worried about the next generation of successful Germans coming through. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Germany celebrate after winning the World Cup in Brazil . Winners: The German youngsters celebrate with the trophy after defeating Portugal 1-0 in the final . Familiar feeling: Lahm lifts the World Cup and Niklas Stark lifts his own trophy after the Budapest final . Mukhtar's winner came after 39 minutes as he converted the latest in a string of German opportunities by knocking the ball in off his shin in a scrap with his marker in the area. Goalkeeper Oliver Schnitzler matched Manuel Neuer's World Cup heroics in the second half to keep a clean sheet and crowd the young Mannschaft side kings of Europe at their level. They beat Austria, Ukraine and Bulgaria while drawing with Serbia on their way to the final. Winning goal: Goalscorer Hany Mukhtar celebrates his first half strike that gave Germany the title . Lucky break: Mukhtar converted past the Portuguese goalkeeper via his shin in the 37th minute . And the youngsters even took praise from the senior side's manager Joachim Low after the game. 'Many congratulations to everyone who who was part of this success,' he wrote on the German FA's website. 'The team had a terrific tournament - the European Championship showed that German football can look forward to new great talent.' Outnumbered but not outfought: Julian Brandt gets between three Portuguese defenders in Budapest . | Summer of success continues with 1-0 final win in Budapest over Portugal .
Hertha Berlin's Hany Mukhtar scored the only goal in the first half .
Germany also managed to win this tournament in 2008 .
Werder Bremen's Davie Selke finished top goalscorer in the tournament .
England lost out in qualifying to Ukraine with 94th minute goal . |
85,328 | f20677546fda09a0eefeeaab056d6959c8824201 | (CNN) -- Table flipping. Hair pulling. Name calling. Glass chucking. Fist throwing. Who needs scripted dialogue when women are willing to physically and emotionally exchange blows for the camera? MTV's "Jersey Shore," the mega-hit known for both male and female brawls, featured yet another bar fight on Thursday night's episode. Despite hyping the altercation between cast member Sammi Giancola and a female club-goer in a promo for the show, the scene was treated like any other segment. Catfights have become practically de rigueur for many cable and network reality series. Shows like "The Bachelor," "Mob Wives," "The Real Housewives" and "Love & Hip Hop" all seemingly rely on female cast members' aggressive behavior for ratings. The genre has become more about shock TV than reality TV, said Steve Carbone, who runs the spoiler site Realitysteve.com. That said, "If you're shocked by what you see (on reality TV), you shouldn't be," he said. For almost a decade, viewers have watched 25 to 30 women vie for the attention of one man each season on ABC's "The Bachelor." And if the majority of catfights on reality TV have taught us anything, it's that viewers love watching women fight over a man. So what's shocking about the current season's villain, Courtney, who said she'd like to "verbally assault" and "rip another girl's head off"? Carbone rhetorically asked. "People, two years ago, were saying the exact same thing about Vienna." Mary McClelland, who contributes to the reality TV site Reality Tea, said viewers are still shocked by cattiness and girl-on-girl violence despite no longer being appalled by it. "Viewers almost revel in it ... in an excited way," she said, adding that stories about catfights on reality shows elicit the most comments on Reality Tea. Judging by the comments, people seem to be annoyed by the constant cattiness on such shows, McClelland said, adding, "Maybe people like the cringe factor." And so producers routinely cast women who will be controversial. As Shaunie O'Neal, the executive producer and star of VH1's "Basketball Wives," wrote in a commentary for CNN.com in July, "I'm not a big supporter of the bickering, drink throwing and fighting, but when you put a group of strong, independent and vocal women who are going through or just came out of a bad relationship together, there's bound to be a little drama." "More and more people are starting to realize how scripted some of this stuff is," Carbone said. "Not in terms of words, but in unscripted drama. They're not telling people what to say, but they're giving them a situation where they know what's going to arise." That's exactly what happened when VH1's other reality hit "Love & Hip Hop" found Chrissy Lampkin and Kimbella Vanderhee in the same room. What began as a verbal disagreement ended with flying fists and exposed lady parts. "Viewers like to find a character to dislike," McClelland said. "People like to have sides. Like with 'The Real Housewives of New Jersey' -- Caroline (Manzo) vs. Teresa (Giudice). Fans are into that." Who could forget Giudice's infamous "last supper," in which she flipped a table over. "There's over 100 (reality shows) with all of the cable programs," Carbone said. "You almost have to outdo the others to get noticed." The aggression appears to have amped up recently. A study out of Brigham Young University published in 2010 stated that "reality-television programs contained high levels of verbal and relational aggression, but almost no physical violence. Such 'meanness' is so frequent, that it is almost expected in reality programs." And shows like Oxygen's "Bad Girls Club" are built around mean girls and fights. These shows clearly have an audience. However, Carbone said, that doesn't mean viewers are desensitized to girl-on-girl violence. If they were, he said, producers would move on to a new attention-grabbing storyline. Which raises a frightening question: What does a show have to do for us to say, "Oh, we've never seen this on reality TV before"? | Sammi Giancola engaged in a bar fight on Thursday's episode of "Jersey Shore"
Catfights have become standard for many cable and network reality series .
"The Bachelor," "Mob Wives" and "Love & Hip Hop" feature such aggressive behavior . |
83,241 | ec0881b3001423ede44b1336ae04b1dadd407d88 | It's their fault, President Barack Obama said Monday in blaming Republican inaction on immigration reform for escalating problems including a surge of undocumented children crossing the border from Mexico. At a hastily scheduled Rose Garden appearance, Obama said the top House Republican -- Speaker John Boehner -- told him last week that the chamber's GOP majority will continue blocking a vote on a Senate-passed immigration bill. In response, Obama said he was starting "a new effort to fix as much of our immigration system as I can on my own, without Congress." Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson and Attorney General Eric Holder will "identify additional actions my administration can take within my existing legal authorities, to do what Congress refuses to do and fix as much of our immigration system as we can," the President said. "If Congress will not do their job, at least we can do ours," he said, adding he expected the recommendations by the end of summer and would act on them without delay. "The failure of House Republicans to pass a darn bill is bad for our security, is bad for our economy, is bad for our future," Obama said. "America cannot wait forever for them to act." Vilify Republicans . Obama's statement sought to vilify Republicans for the failure to get congressional approval for immigration reform, an issue important to his base. "Pass a bill. Solve a problem. Don't just say no on something that everybody agrees needs to be done," he said, repeating his contention that a bill would win bipartisan approval if Boehner allowed it to come to a vote in the House. The right fate for immigrant kids . Conservative Republicans oppose the Senate plan passed last year with support from both parties support because it includes a pathway to legal status for immigrants living illegally in the United States. They also fear that such a reform measure would bolster already strong Democratic support among Hispanic Americans, the nation's largest minority. For his part, Boehner said Monday that Republicans don't trust Obama to enforce laws they might pass. "Until that changes, it is going to be difficult to make progress on this issue," he said in a statement after Obama spoke. "The crisis at our southern border reminds us all of the critical importance of fixing our broken immigration system." "Sad and disappointing" He continued, "It is sad and disappointing that -- faced with this challenge -- President Obama won't work with us, but is instead intent on going it alone with executive orders that can't and won't fix these problems." Boehner noted that previous executive action by Obama to halt deportations of some undocumented children led to the current border crisis by "giving false hope to children and their families that if they enter the country illegally they will be allowed to stay." In his statement, Obama announced he was ordering a shift in security resources to border regions, and he promised the additional action he can take "without Congress but within his existing authorities to fix as much of our broken immigration system as we can." The President also sent Congress a letter asking that legislators work with him on providing additional money and leeway to deal with the situation on the southern border. Border influx . On Sunday, an administration official told CNN the money -- which could exceed $2 billion -- would go to securing appropriate space for the detention of children but also stemming the tide of immigrants. The government hopes to increase its ability to investigate and dismantle smuggling organizations as well as quickly return children and adults to their home countries if they do not qualify for asylum, according to that official. So far, the federal government has struggled to process and accommodate the influx of illegal human traffic but specifically the spike in children. U.S. authorities estimate that between 60,000 to 80,000 children without parents will cross the border this year in what the White House is calling an "immediate humanitarian crisis." Earlier in June, the White House announced a plan to spend millions in a government-wide response by sending aide to governments in Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador to help with crime and violence prevention. In mid-June, Vice President Joe Biden also spoke with leaders in the three countries as well as Mexico about working together to promote security. Biden's objective was to emphasize that adults arriving with their children in the United States don't meet the requirements for a policy that defers deportation for children brought to the United States before June 15, 2012. Obama also spoke with Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto about the issue and has warned families who see the dangerous trip as the best option for their children. | President Obama blames GOP inaction for immigration woes .
Boehner: Obama's past actions caused border problems .
Obama to ask Congress for money to deal with children at the southern border .
The unexpected surge of children and families has created a humanitarian crisis . |
283,760 | fb9b4ba39dc2950d80e3a1a7b2066a2bf65bae2c | By . Pa Reporter . Blackpool have finally signed a goalkeeper, four days before they start the new Sky Bet Championship campaign, by bringing in Joe Lewis from Cardiff on a season-long loan. The club have been without a keeper for the whole of pre-season after number one Matt Gilks left for Barclays Premier League side Burnley. Lewis told the club's official website, www.blackpoolfc.co.uk: 'I was sat at Cardiff for the last two seasons behind David Marshall, who has done outstanding. Incoming! Cardiff City goalkeeper Joe Lewis has signed for Blackpool on loan for the rest of the season . 'I've had to make do with a couple of cup games and the odd league game here and there, and it was pretty frustrating really. I knew that I had to get out and play some regular football. 'It's great to come to a club like Blackpool and hopefully make the number one position my own.' The 26-year-old has a wealth of experience, with over 200 appearances since coming through the academy at Norwich. He has since played for Stockport, Morecambe and Peterborough, before transferring to the Bluebirds in 2012 for £400,000. That's a little better: Manager Jose Riga was facing the prospect of starting the campaign without a stopper . Lewis joined on an initial loan with a view to a permanent deal. The terms of the deal this season mean he cannot play against parent club Cardiff. The Tangerines have made a flurry of signings in recent weeks after just eight professionals turned up to pre-season training, with more than 20 players leaving the club. Jose Riga's men begin their Championship campaign at the weekend against Nottingham Forest. | The Seasiders now have 16 players before the Championship season .
Matt Gilks left for Premier League Burnley earlier this summer .
Blackpool fans have protested against the Oyston family recently . |
170,206 | 684c3afec7dea35a2aa113d7d18ac83886942822 | Not long ago, I was hurtling along a narrow aisle of a large department store, on an errand that I didn't really have time for, very late, harassed, hot, sweaty, grumpy and most definitely unkempt, and I saw a middle-aged woman running towards me. I noticed as she came nearer that she looked a bit like a demented crone; she was small and haggard, had a gaunt face and lines around her eyes, and on her face was an anxious expression. Her hair needed washing. I think her shirt was wrongly buttoned. She was obviously in a hurry and in a state. Surprise reflection: Nicci doesn't feel like a 56-year-old woman . I put up a hand in apology and she put her hand up as well - and I realised that she was me. I was looking at myself in a mirror. I was that demented crone. I was stopped in my tracks. So this was how I looked to strangers when I was running through a department store on an errand: not slim and poised and purposeful but scrawny, worried and slightly unhinged. It was a grim and hilarious revelation. How many of us look in the mirror and think: but that's not me, not the real me, the one I carry round inside myself. I'm 56 now, and all my children are in their 20s; polite young men sometimes stand up for me on buses or offer to help me carry my fold-up bike up escalators. I need glasses for reading and have a nasty suspicion my hearing's getting worse; I have lines round my eyes and fillings in my mouth and stretch marks on my stomach and when I examine myself I think, how on earth did that happen? Where did I go, the self I used to be? As she was: Nicci still feels like the young mother of tiny children . There is always a gap between how we feel inside ourselves and how the world sees us. Sometimes this gap is comfortingly narrow and seems bridgeable; at other times it yawns horribly, so that the self we experience and the one that other people encounter appear almost unconnected. I think that this bewildering and often frightening mismatch between the way we see and know ourselves and the way the world sees us happens more often and more powerfully as we get older - because, of course, inside our minds and our hearts and our heads, we are still young, still just getting going on life's journey, still making up our minds who we want to be. Because, of course, I'm not really 56. I’m ten and jumping in puddles in my red wellington boots; I’m 15 and falling in love for the first time; I’m 18 and leaving home; I'm a student, a newly-wed, an over-eager young employee, a mother of tiny children, of not so tiny children... But the mirror ignores the selves I carry with me and can only, mercilessly, show me my 56-year-old self, unmistakably bashed about by life and all its ambushes. And people can only see that 56-year-old - or increasingly, perhaps, don’t see her. Or, when they meet my mother, they can only see a woman in her 80s, registered blind, who has had cancer and multiple strokes and is frail, precarious. They see her age and they admire her for her tenacity. 'Isn't she marvellous?' they say. And she is marvellous, a marvel, but not just because she is old and indomitable but because she is a passionate and fiercely optimistic woman. If you asked her how old she felt, she would probably say 21. She is 82 years young and she still feels that life is ahead of her. Both grown up: Nicci wonders where the young woman and her baby have gone . Today: The author feels she's judge more by her age now than her personality . It is because of my mother and women like her that I wrote my novel, The Twilight Hour, which is both the story of 94-year-old Eleanor, whose future is very short and whose secret past is long, and also the story of the young and beautiful Eleanor, full of hopes and desires. I wanted to hold both these women together and show how the old Eleanor is also the radiant young one. For as we age we become increasingly invisible, except as a category. And for the old, this category is becoming larger all the time. A few decades ago, it was rare to reach your late 80s or 90s and those who did were valued: they had lived so long and seen so much, lived through depressions and wars. Now it is common. Old people are talked about as a large and problematic group, a burden on the NHS, taking up hospital beds, increasingly expensive and time-consuming as they reach the last years of the journey they are on. Sometimes the words we use to describe them are insulting and patronising ('sweet', 'difficult', 'naughty'), as if being old made them children once more. A couple of years ago, one of my daughters was taken to hospital with a minor head injury: she had fallen off a horse, was briefly unconscious, and when she came round she not only had no memory of what had happened, but also could not form new memories. Four out of ten UK bosses perceive staff as old when their employees pass the age of 50 . For a few hours (after which she recovered entirely), whatever we told her she promptly forgot, greeting the news with an identical expression of incredulity. She was caught in a small loop of time, which was remarkably similar to how people are with severe dementia. She was kept in overnight for observation, and because there were few beds available, she was taken to an orthopaedic ward where everyone happened to be very old, and where all but one had some kind of dementia. It was night time; the lighting was dim, and all round us were shadowy shapes of women in states of distress and confusion. One kept crying out, like a child wanting its parents, and another was loudly and obscenely rude to the nurses. To my shame, I felt scared. The nurses were kind and respectful to their patients, but the room seemed full of pain and even a kind of torment. The next morning, with daylight making everything seem saner and less threatening, I saw it differently. The women were sitting up in bed. They talked, smiled. One was reading a book. Nicci wants people to be defined by who they are, not by how old they are . They were fellow humans, individuals, women with long and richly complicated histories who needed to be recognised and cherished for all the selves they held inside them. We all need to be recognised. To become invisible is to be like a ghost in our own life. We are our life's work and only at the very end can we gather together all these selves and know what we have made of ourselves. A few years ago, I trained to be a humanist celebrant: I conduct funerals for people who have no religious faith. I did it just as my children were leaving home and I had a powerful sense of a long chapter of my life being over. I became preoccupied with leavings and farewells. How do you say goodbye to someone you dearly love and will never see again, and how do you find comfort? You find comfort through memory. At a good funeral, the story is over and a life is pieced together. The body in the coffin was a daughter, a sister, a mother, a grandmother, a colleague, a lover, a friend. She was happy and she was sad; difficult and wonderful; loved and rejected. Now she is all these things. She is no longer old, nor is she young; she has become everything that she ever was. I once conducted a funeral for a woman who'd had a rackety kind of life - she had married several times, had been a model and a waitress, lived in several countries, been restless. She'd loved parties, adventures, excitement. There were only three at the service, including her carer. The empty chapel echoed with the dance music she had wanted. But at most services there is a sense of a whole life being lit up by accumulated memories. The coffin lies on the catafalque, but in the order of service there are often photographs: here is the dead person in a field of bluebells, here she is on her wedding day, or cradling her first baby. Day by day, we make up a life. Several times, I have visited the person whose funeral I will conduct before they die. Close to the end, they want to meet the person who is to bury them. I think, too, they want to tell the story of their life to a stranger who could acknowledge its uniqueness. This need to be seen whole and special is inside us all. If we are lucky, we become old. But when we are old, we still have that need to be recognised, seen as who we are. Our selves. The Twilight Hour is published by Michael Joseph at £7.99 . | Nicci is now 56 and all her children are in their 20s .
But inside she still feels like a newly-wed mother of tiny children .
Other people only see that 56-year-old - or increasingly, don't see her . |
266,720 | e5782241149a89302c4b6344d9a919a8c25c2158 | (CNN) -- Niagara Regional Police asked Friday for the public's help in identifying the woman whose dismembered body was found in the Canadian portion of the Niagara River. The torso, which had no head or limbs, was spotted by citizens Wednesday and recovered near the Rainbow Bridge near Niagara Falls. "It's important to identify this person to bring closure to family members and to hold those responsible accountable for this crime," Inspector Jim McCaffery told reporters. He gave details he hoped would help jog someone's memory. The victim was a white woman, likely in her mid-20s to early 40s, said McCaffery. She had at least one cesarean section, her fallopian tubes were tied and her navel was pierced. The woman was the victim of a homicide, the inspector said. The body probably was in the water between four and 10 days. The cause of death has not been released. Niagara police are working with area police jurisdictions to identify any women who may be missing. So far, they are looking at about 20 cases, said McCaffery. Authorities have said the homicide was unrelated to another case where the body parts of a woman named Guang Hua Liu were found in several places. Her torso is still missing. | A body was found in Canada's Niagara River on Wednesday .
The deceased was a homicide victim .
She is described as a white woman in her mid-20s to early 40s . |
96,869 | 08aab339d96bf8688d6d07a6d046e0b4e66ccf8c | By . Luke Garratt . PUBLISHED: . 12:12 EST, 11 March 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 13:34 EST, 11 March 2014 . Use of the gallows hasn't taken place in Sri Lanka since 1976, even though there are currently 405 convicts on death row . Sri Lanka is searching for a new hangman after the latest recruit got upset on seeing the gallows for the first time and quit immediately. The Prisons Department appointed the new hangman, the third most qualified from 176 applicants, last week, months after two hangmen chosen late last year failed to show up for work. Chandrarathna Pallegama, commissioner general of prisons said: 'We gave him one week's training, but he resigned after seeing the gallows. 'He said that he didn't want the job. 'He told me that after seeing the gallows he got upset. 'Next time, we will show the gallows to the new recruits before giving them basic training.' According to reports, he wouldn't have been likely to hang anyone anyway as the job is mostly light administrative work only. The Indian Ocean island nation is a predominantly Buddhist country, and has not carried out an execution since 1976. Despite this, there are at least 405 convicts who have been sentenced to the death penalty. However, there has been an alarming rise . in child abuse, rapes, murders, and drug trafficking in the country . since the 25 year war against the Tamil Tiger separatists. Since . the war ended in 2009, lawyers and politicians have pushed for the . death penalty to be reintroduced following the dramatic rise in violent . crimes. The history of the death penalty in Sri Lanka starts with the British restricted the death penalty after they took control of the island in 1815. It was limited to murder, and 'waging war against the King'. But after independence, the then Prime Minister S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike abolished capital punishment in 1956. But it was very quickly reintroduced after his assassination in 1959. President Chandrika Kumaratunga has made several attempts to reintroduce the death penalty. In March 1999, after spurts of violence near the end of her first term in office, she stated that the government would be reintroducing the death penalty but was forced to back down because of public protest. But on November 19, 2004, a judge, Sarath Ambepitiya, was gunned down as he arrived home from work. This caused President Kumaratunga to reinstate capital punishment immediately. Sri Lanka is a nation mostly based around the Buddhist religion, which is one of peace. But despite this, there has been a rise in violent crime causing many politicians and lawyers to call for a renewed use of the death penalty . While there are less countries that use the death penalty than there are that don't, Sri Lanka is by no means the only country to have legal capital punishment. Of the 195 independent states that are UN members, 51 per cent have abolished the death penalty. Meanwhile, 4 per cent retain it for crimes committed in exceptional circumstances, such as war. 25 per cent permit its use for ordinary crimes, but have not used it for at least 10 years and are believed to have a policy or established practice of not carrying out executions (such as Sri Lanka), and 20 per cent maintain the death penalty in both law and practice. | Indian Ocean nation's latest hangman quit almost immediately .
He had one weeks training before he saw the gallows and got upset .
Was the third most qualified from 176 applicants .
Sri Lanka has not hanged anyone since 1976 . |
56,460 | 9ff7cbab35c9fcce2cfd78658b877d21af734d56 | The shamed son of Pink Floyd guitarist Dave Gilmour was ‘thoroughly intoxicated’ when he attacked the royal convoy during the student fees riots, a court heard yesterday. Charlie Gilmour, 21, was seen swinging on the Union Flag at the Cenotaph just hours before he hurled a bin at a car escorting the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall. The disgraced Cambridge University student also jumped on the bonnet of the car, which was carrying close protection officers, blocking the driver’s view of the Prince’s Rolls-Royce in front, it was claimed. Charlie Gilmour arrived at court yesterday flanked by his father, Pink Floyd guitarist David Gilmour, and his mother Polly Samson . Kingston Crown Court heard . details of the chaos as a 100-strong baying mob laid siege to the royals . during the tuition fees protest in London on December 9 last year. During the five-minute onslaught, the . windows next to the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall were smashed and the . car battered by rubbish bins, sticks, fists and paint. Prosecutor Duncan Penny told how a . royal protection officer sitting in the front seat of the Prince’s . limousine reacted with shock on coming under attack after dismissing the . crowd’s mood as merely ‘boisterous'. Mr Penny said: ‘At first he thought the mood was merely boisterous with the crowd chanting and waving banners and flags. ‘But the inspector said people then . started kicking and punching the vehicle, making obscene gestures and . striking the car with sticks. ‘He said how one man stood in front . of the vehicle with his arms raised, a person threw a large cardboard . box into the carriageway forcing the car to veer and another man raised a . large black bin to shoulder height and threw it at them. ‘The window next to the Prince of . Wales shattered but remained in place but the window next to the Duchess . of Cornwall was broken and almost completely open. ‘He estimates the vehicle was under . attack for at least five minutes and was deeply concerned and was under . extreme levels of pressure.’ Under attack: The Rolls-Royce of Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall was attacked during the protests . A constable sitting in the Jaguar . following the Rolls-Royce pushed his car door open to fend off the . attack, striking a number of protesters with the door, including . Gilmour. The yob responded by sitting on the car’s bonnet, causing the driver to brake suddenly. The officer was later injured when a bottle was lobbed through the door, hitting him on the forehead. The Jaguar was also covered in spit . from the jeering crowds who chanted: ‘Off with their heads’, ‘Tory scum’ and ‘Give us some money’. In a third vehicle carrying members of the Royal household, the back window was smashed. Prince Charles’ equerry, Major Will . Mackinlay was ‘very concerned and fearful for the people in the vehicle . and also concerned about how the police protection officers may react,’ the . court heard. Gilmour claims he was so high that he cannot recollect whether he threw a bin at the Royal protection officers’ car. Minutes later he looted a mannequin’s . leg after smashing his way into Topshop with other protesters causing . £50,000 with of damage and terrifying customers and staff who needed . counselling afterwards. Yesterday the court were shown a . series of video clips showing the pop star’s son at the heart of the . demonstration earlier in the day around Parliament Square and later in . Regent Street and Oxford Street. He was pictured clutching a rock and threatened to ‘storm parliament’ during the violent clashes with police. The defendant squirmed in his seat as footage was shown of him confronting police lines, shouting: ‘Let them eat cake, they say. ‘We will not eat cake, we will eat fire and ice and destruction because we are angry, very f****** angry.’ Cenotaph swing: Gilmour was photographed and filmed swinging from the Union Flag on the Cenotaph . In other clips, he is heard shouting: ‘They broke the moral law, we are going to break all the laws. Arson. Destroy. ‘We are not going to stand for it any f**king more, storm Parliament.’ Later the protester appeared unsteady . on his feet, slurring his words in a BBC interview in which he . attempted to hide the stolen mannequin’s leg under his jacket. David Spens, QC, representing Gilmour . said he was ‘thoroughly intoxicated’ and ‘didn’t remember’ throwing a bin, . and had simply spent the day ‘playing the fool’. He said: ‘There was a huge amount of . playing to the cameras and attention seeking during the course of the . afternoon and early evening. ‘Up until Topshop, the extent of his behaviour was playing the fool, acting up to the cameras and showing off. ‘The defendant has no recollection of throwing anything. The defence case is there is no reliable evidence showing he did so.’ But Judge Nicholas Price QC said: ‘It was more than intoxication.’ Yesterday, dressed in a designer grey . suit and his hair newly cropped, Gilmour cut an altogether different . figure than the long-haired lout seen on CCTV. The defendant’s biological father is the poet and playwright Heathcote Williams. His adoptive father David Gilmour and mother, writer and journalist Polly Samson, accompanied him to court. Gilmour faces jail when he is sentenced today after pleading guilty to violent disorder. | Cambridge Uni student arrived in court yesterday with parents .
Was so high he couldn't remember attack with 100-strong mob . |
43,834 | 7ba3ef906ed2b4d8e56138a0718244bc6c09e153 | (CNN) -- Interns -- between office duties, they fetch your coffee, pick up your dry cleaning, maybe even cover for you when you play hooky from the office. But watch your back: That same fresh-faced intern who sucks up to you from 9 to 5 might be gunning for your job or, worse, trying to kill you. At least, that's the premise of Shane Kuhn's darkly comic thriller, "The Intern's Handbook," which was released this month. In Kuhn's story, John Lago is an intern at a prestigious Manhattan law firm. He's also a hit man, hired to infiltrate top-level companies and assassinate crooked executives, all while disguised as a lowly office intern. While the plot may sound far removed from reality, Kuhn has found a powerful theme in the working world. Almost everyone trying to climb the corporate ladder has to start out at the bottom; some huge success stories started out as interns, including people like Oprah Winfrey, Steve Jobs and Sean Combs. CNN's Anderson Cooper was once a summer intern for the CIA. In recent months, interns have been making headlines, not for the work they do, but for for how little they're paid to do it -- and sometimes, for how they're treated by the boss. A growing number of cities and states are passing laws to protect unpaid interns against sexual harassment and discrimination. There has been a handful of lawsuits from interns against some big targets, including movie studios and media companies, over unpaid wages and overtime. Kuhn, 46, says he, too, started out as an intern and it always struck him as "odd" how interns have a combination of anonymity and access. "An intern is basically someone who is hiding in plain sight. Nobody knows their name, no one could pick them out of a lineup, but at the same time, they do everything for their employers," Kuhn says. Kuhn says his novel wasn't inspired by any horror stories from his working past. There were no horrible bosses, just indifferent ones. "To the boss, interns are complete nobodies they don't even want to look at," he said. "It's all the people working under the boss, the everyday workers, that take advantage of the interns." Kuhn says at times he felt like "a bit of an indentured servant" working for the paid employees in his office. "If they wanted to go play golf in the afternoon, but they had filing to do or documents that needed to be pulled, they would just have me do it. Then afterward they say to me, 'Hey man, thanks for doing me a solid, Shawn.'" Nevermind that his name is Shane. Ultimately, Kuhn says, he realized he was not going anywhere as an intern. "You kind of end up bending over backward and then you don't necessarily get a job," he said. "You just get shuffled off and they bring in a new batch of interns to do all their work for them." But the Fort Collins, Colorado, author's experiences stuck with him, and eventually became fodder for his fiction. He describes his book as the "love child" between two of his obsessions: corporate America and assassins. "I've always wanted to write a really good assassin's story. To me it's the ultimate blank slate character," he said. Previous movies and books put a comic spin on the intern story, but Kuhn had a different vision, saying, "There could be something more sinister about an intern, something darker. Then it clicked for me, there's my unique take on the assassin story. It seemed like the perfect thing to apply to interns." While this is Kuhn's first novel, he has worked for nearly 20 years in the film industry, mostly as a screenwriter, penning such B-movies as "Drive Thru," "The Scorpion King 3" and "SEAL Team 8: Behind Enemy Lines." In 1995, he co-founded the Slamdance FIlm Festival, an even more indie version of Sundance in Park City, Utah. He says he wanted his book to capture the feel of a big screen blockbuster. "I wanted to create enough cues for this to really blow up in your mind and feel like a movie." Hollywood's taken notice. Kuhn says he's had preliminary discussions with several stars in the entertainment industry about bringing his book to the big screen or television but says he's in no rush to make a deal. "This is really a dream come true for me," he said. "Finally I'm a published author. I don't want to screw it up. This book is my baby. I'm going to be pretty careful with it." For now, Kuhn says he's going all-in with "The Intern's Handbook." He plans to have the book's jacket art tattooed on his arm at a promotional event this week. He's already written a sequel and has an idea for a third story, and potentially more, in what could be a future "Interns" franchise. "I'm moving forward creatively," he said. "I'm not going to stop. I'm going to keep writing." | Shane Kuhn's darkly comic thriller, "The Intern's Handbook," debuted this month .
In the book, a law firm intern is a hired hit man, infiltrating top-level companies .
Kuhn: "An intern is basically someone who is hiding in plain sight. ... They do everything" |
194,667 | 87fba2033c8633bb3331381ee9978d6605b505a5 | By . Richard Shears . and William Turvill . PUBLISHED: . 04:12 EST, 17 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 18:05 EST, 17 December 2013 . Retired basketball star Dennis Rodman is to visit his ‘good friend’ Kim Jong-Un in North Korea for a third time this week. Trip organisers said Mr Rodman is to make the trip despite current tension surrounding the leader’s decision to execute his uncle. Mr Rodman has visited Pyongyang on two . other occasions, during which he spent time dining as a guest of Kim . Jong-Un, with whom he says he has a genuine friendship. Scroll Down for Video . Basketball star Dennis Rodman is to visit North Korea dictator Kim Jong-Un for a third time (both pictured) This picture shows Kim Jong-Un (centre) with his wife (left) and Mr Rodman (right) on a previous visit . Strange bedfellows: Former basketball star Dennis Rodman of the U.S. shows pictures he took with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to the media earlier this year . The visit also comes at a time when there have also been fears for the safety of the dictator’s wife, Ri Sol-Ju. These fears were largely eased when a video was released showing her with Kim Jong-Un at a memorial service to mark the second anniversary of his father's death. Before then, she had not been seen for a number of weeks and her absence from official photographs has led to speculation she could have fallen out of favour with a husband who is swift to deliver punishment to anyone who shows the slightest sign of disloyalty. ‘It's certainly safe, even when there . is a bit of disruption like there is now - a bit of trouble or chaos - . there's even more need for cultural or sporting exchanges,’ said Rory . Scott, a spokesman for Irish bookmakers Paddy Power, which has arranged . the trip. In Washington, a . State Department official, speaking anonymously, sought to . distance the US government from Mr Rodman's visit. ‘We have not been . contacted by Mr Rodman about his trip to North Korea,’ said the . official. ‘The State Department does not vet U.S. citizens' private . travel to the DPRK.’ They appear to be seen at a memorial service for the second anniversary of Kim Jong-Un's father's death . Ri Sol-Ju and Kim's aunt, Kim Kyong Hui, are the two women to whom the unpredictable Kim turns for advice . Mr . Rodman is expected to provide North Korea's national basketball team . with four days of training. He also intends to return to Pyongyang in . January with a team of fellow former National Basketball Association . stars to hold basketball games on Kim Jong-Un's birthday. ‘Dennis is . going to spend a couple of days training the North Korean team to get . them ship shape for the January match,’ Mr Scott said. State in mourning: North Koreans pay tribute to late leader Kim Jong-Il on the second anniversary of his death . Re-writing history: Kim Jong-Un looked sombre at an event to mark the second anniversary of the death of his father in Pyongyang, attended by military officials . A military parade is under way at the plaza of the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun in Pyongyang, to commemorate the second anniversary of their 'Dear Leader' Meanwhile, North . Korea's young dictator appears to be trying to change the . country's history as the population mourns the death of his father. The . 30-year-old leader has purged North Korea's state news archive, even . removing the announcement of Kim Jong-Il's death from two years ago. On . Monday, thousands of North Koreans laid flowers outside the state . mausoleum during a remembrance ceremony for their 'Dear Leader' on the . second anniversary of his death. After . removing his uncle from his high position and then having him shot in . the wake of other 'traitors of the state,' Kim Jong-Un is believed to be . behind the country's official news agency's erasing of most of the . state news archives. Dumped . from the records are some 35,000 articles held by the Korea Central News . Agency, as well as 20,000 articles on the website of the official . newspaper of the Workers' Party, Rodong Sinmun. News . of the archives purge has emerged through US website NKNews.org, for . which Mr Frank Feinstein, a New Zealand-based analyst, tracks North . Korea's media output. The . 'disappearing' of historical events is seen by analysts as a further . show of strength by Kim, who has ruled for two years since the death of . his father, Kim Jong-Il. Kim is believed to have decided to start history anew, with the focus being entirely on him. Tears of the people: Thousands visited the state mausoleum where the bodies of Kim Jong-Il and his father Kim Il-Sung lie embalmed . Bow down: People pay tribute to the late leaders at the bronze statues of Kim Il-Sung and Kim Jong-Il . A picture released by North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) shows soldiers gathered at Kumsusan memorial palace in Pyongyang . Paying tribute: North Koreans came to lay flowers at the state mausoleum long into the night . Kim Jong-Un's teenage nephew has resurfaced on his university campus in Paris under police protection. Kim Han-sol is believed to have attempted to go into hiding following the execution of Jang Song-Thaek last week. The 19-year-old's name was removed from the postbox at prestigious social science university Sciences-Po, which saw South Korean media report that he was hiding for fear of his safety. On Monday, Kim Han-sol was yet again seen on campus accompanied by several police officers who also partrolled the premises, South Korean news agency Yonhap said. The move could be an ominous sign for . the old guard who have surrounded him. With his uncle, Jang Song-Thaek . being purged and then shot immediately after a show trial last week, it . is possible that other ageing generals will also be removed to make way . for a younger cadre. Only . one elderly member of Kim's immediate political team has been guaranteed . safety from any future purge - his 67-year-old aunt, Kim Kyong-Hui, now . the widow of Jang Song-Thaek. The . articles that have been removed from the KCNA website include those . about 'major events' in the country's recent history, including the . announcement of the death of Kim's father in 2011. 'There . were 35,000 articles dated September 2013 or earlier on KCNA in . Korean,' said Mr Feinstein. 'If they are leaving the . odd one in, it is still a kill ratio of 98 per cent to 99 per cent,' he . said in a webpost. 'Dear Leader': Kim Jong-Il, pictured in October two years ago, died on December 17, 2011 . A day to remember: North Korean soldiers march on Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang as others pay their respects beneath portraits of the late leaders Kim Jong Il, right, and Kim Il Sung . Uniform: This image taken from video, show military officials attending a memorial service for Kim Jong-Il . As one: Military officials applause after a speech about the late 'Dear Leader' 'This is calculated,' he added, referring to the deletions from the two sites. 'It means the order most likely came from above the individual agencies. That is why it is so interesting - it is not just an internal KCNA purge.' It is believed that among the articles that have been removed are those suggesting regional . The 'purge period' includes North Korea's missile launches and a stream of proactive statements aimed at the US. Now state-approved digital records about Kim Jong-Un date back to only October this year. Mr Feinstein, who lives in Christchurch, said that in addition to the 35,000 original Korean language articles, translations in English, Spanish, Chinese and Japanese were all removed from the archives - bringing the total of deleted articles to nearly 100,000. NKNews quoted a North Korean expert, who asked to remain anonymous, as saying that the elimination of the articles was 'an extreme action.' | Mr Rodman, who is retired from basketball, to make trip despite current tension caused by dictator's decision to execute his own uncle last week .
Comes after Kim Jong-Un ordered for state news records to be deleted .
Articles erased include announcement of Kim Jong-Il's death in 2011 .
Thousands attended memorial ceremony for 'Dear Leader' yesterday . |
27,800 | 4ec801be2b1a0b205a07c5dc4fd9da4488391fc3 | Every single major artery on Britain's railways will remain closed on Boxing Day, leaving millions stranded or pushing them onto the roads. No trains will run between England and Scotland or Wales on the East Coast, West Coast or Great Western mainlines - and the Midland, Cross Country and East Anglia lines will also remain shut. The near-non-existent service has returned this year despite a fierce political battle over the so-called Boxing Day shutdown dating back to at least 2007. Scroll down to find out which trains will be running . Leaving the city? Perish the thought - every cross-country artery will be closed again on Boxing Day . Labour and Tories have repeatedly traded accusations over the lack of service, which affects football fans, families without cars and shop workers in the Boxing Day sales. Apart from airport shuttles and Eurostar, only Chiltern, Scotrail, Southeastern and Southern will be running any trains on December 26. Even then the services will be extremely limited and only call at major stations. Not even the Heathrow Express train from London to its largest airport will be running, despite terminals remaining open on Boxing Day. Campaigners blamed a 'blind spot' in the set-up of private rail franchises which puts no obligation on firms to run services on December 26. Bruce Williamson, spokesman for the passenger group Railfuture, told MailOnline: 'Things need to improve. No trains: London Liverpool Street station is deserted in 2008 due to over-running festive maintenance work . 'Even trains not running on Christmas Day is a relatively new development - I believe British Rail were running Christmas Day trains as recently as 1981. 'We appreciate it sometimes makes more sense to extend Christmas engineering works to Boxing Day to give yourself a major chunk of time, but we're calling for more lines to be open next year. Jams: Drivers will be stranded or forced to take to the road to reach family, sales and sports fixtures . 'The problem is it's a blind spot in the way the Department for Transport runs its franchise agreement with the operating companies. 'They're under no obligation to run on Boxing Day and it's often a loss leader because you don't have huge numbers of people travelling.' He added: 'Personally I'm already down at my mother's house in Devon. I drove because I didn't want to be stranded, and because I'm sure the trains will be absolutely rammed to the gills today.' Despite the complaints Boxing Day is traditionally quiet compared to normal commuting days - so many firms are using the opportunity to do engineering work. London Bridge station, one of the largest in the capital, will see one of the most disruptive parts of its five-year upgrade this week as part of the £6billion Thameslink programme. A Department for Transport spokesman told MailOnline: 'Deciding the level of service on specific days is a matter for train operators. 'But we know passengers want to travel on Boxing Day, and that’s why we have worked with the rail industry to ensure there are limited services on some franchises on that day. 'Network Rail and train companies have ensured that a large part of the railway will remain open over the Christmas/New Year period and alternative routes are provided where the lines are closed for essential engineering work, and that these are communicated properly to the public.' One group that will be worst-hit are football supporters - with ten major Premier League fixtures on Boxing Day involving some of the nation's biggest clubs. Tottenham Hotspur fans face a 100-mile trek to a 3pm kick-off against Leicester City while Aston Villa fans will have to travel 150 miles for their club's draw against Swansea City. Football trip: Tottenham Hotspur fans face a 100-mile trek to a 3pm kick-off against Leicester City at the King Power Stadium (pictured) Football Supporters' Federation chairman Malcolm Clarke told the Daily Mirror: 'This is a significant issue for a lot of fans. Not just away fans - without public transport even home fans can find a three or four mile journey almost impossible. 'This is one of the biggest footballing days of the calendar. It is a shame nothing has changed.' Similar chaos in previous years prompted transport minister Stephen Hammond to tell the Commons in January there was 'no reason' why lines without engineering works shouldn't run. While in opposition Mr Hammond slammed the Labour government over Boxing Day line closures, saying they were 'condemning sports fans and families trying to celebrate the Christmas period together to misery on our clogged-up motorways.' But he was sacked in July's reshuffle and today Labour accused the Tories of hypocrisy. Shadow transport secretary Michael Dugher told the Mirror: 'They had four and a half years to do something about this, but the lack of action shows they never really cared'. Politics: The Boxing Day shutdown has been the subject of party political spats since at least 2007 . A spokesman for the campaign group Passenger Focus said operators often had no choice but to close lines on Boxing Day. 'This is nothing new,' he told MailOnline. 'If the operators did decide to run services on Boxing Day that's usually the period when Network Rail wants to shut the network down anyway for engineering work. 'The people who are put at a disadvantage are the leisure traveller, such as football fans, who want to travel and come across a lot of engineering work. If you are a commuter Monday to Friday you're less likely to encounter that. 'But we have been calling for investment and improvement and the quiet Christmas period is the ideal time to do that. You have to go with the numbers, and Christmas is a traditionally quiet time'. | Every single artery closed including all lines into Scotland and Wales .
Even Heathrow Express will not run despite London airport being open .
Little change from previous years despite fierce party political row .
Football fans face 150-mile journeys to make big Boxing Day fixtures .
Football Supporters' Federation: 'A significant issue for a lot of fans' |
38,985 | 6e27330abd8ef73529ba71fd143d2ec4a42d31e4 | By . Allan Hall . PUBLISHED: . 11:58 EST, 23 October 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 05:50 EST, 24 October 2012 . German special forces in Afghanistan have seized a top Taliban commander who controlled a network of suicide bombers and fighters who preyed on Nato petrol supply lines. Mullah Abdul Rahman and another Taliban commander were . seized by officers of the elite KSK unit who were dropped in by helicopter near the village of . Ghunday Kalay in Kunduz Province, northern Afganistan. Rahaman, who is described as a major figure in the uprising against Nato forces in the region, was found with a Joint Prioritized Effects List (JPEL) which is a classified Nato document detailing Taliban operatives it wants captured. Special forces: A team of officers from the elite German KSK unit were dropped in by helicopter near the village of Ghunday Kalay in Kunduz Province, northern Afganistan (file picture) His name was among those on the list. It was Rahman's fighters who in September 2009 hijacked two fuel tankers and hid them down a dry riverbed. US fighter jets were called in by the Germans and around 100 civilians were killed when the tankers were hit with rockets. Sources . said he was always a major bombmaker and ordered suicide bombers to . disguise themselves as women in blue burkas to avoid security checks. News . media in Germany said there were unconfirmed reports from intelligence . sources that Rahman had grown disillusioned with the Taliban and was . seeking to switch his allegiance to the Karzai government. Kunduz province police spokesman Sayed Sarwar Husseini. said: 'Rahman was involved in heightening insecurity in Kunduz, Takhar and Badakhshan provinces. 'He encouraged insurgents to plant roadside bombs and stage high-profile attacks on Afghan officials.' Husseini said Rahman, whom Nato has described as a 'Taliban financier' in the north, was captured in Kunduz's Char Darah district last Friday. A spokesman for NATO's Afghan force said it could not immediately comment. Germany is the third-largest troop contributor to Afghanistan's NATO-led force. With violence intensifying 11 years into the war, there is concern over how the 350,000-strong Afghan security forces will manage once most foreign troops leave by the end of 2014. | Mullah Abdul Rahman was responsible for attacks on Nato petrol supply lines .
Officers of the elite German KSK unit swooped in Kunduz Province on Friday .
He was found with classified Nato list of most wanted Taliban operatives .
His name was among those on the list . |
89,208 | fd30b2cb80a0f62ce8575922825f5c40c45b096c | By . Belinda Robinson . PUBLISHED: . 11:06 EST, 19 March 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 11:59 EST, 19 March 2014 . Having a drag: Guests who visit the zoo throw pre-lit cigarette butts to the adult male known as Kirno . The 14-year-old was photographed puffing on a fag at Taru Jurug Zoo in Solo, Central Java, Indonesia. Guests are throwing pre-lit cigarette butts to the adult male known as Kirno then laughing as he smokes like a human. It is thought he learnt how to smoke by imitating zoo visitors. And it comes just two years after another of the zoo's orangutans, Tori, had to be moved to an island to quit her cigarette habit. A zoo spokesperson said: 'It is difficult to prevent the visitors from giving cigarettes to Kirno. 'Many visitors misbehave. Smoking habits in orangutans are dangerous and can lead to a lack of appetite.' The photographer Agoes Rudianto who captured the images said: 'I was photographing the animals at the zoo when I got to Kirno's cage and spotted him smoking. 'I saw there were visitors taking pictures on their phones and laughing.' Dr Grainne McEntee, head of Ooperations at Orangutan Protection Foundation, added: 'Mimicry is a well-known behavioural characteristic in primates. It is how they learn, much as human children do. 'In . a captive environment, with little to do, intelligent primates commonly . resort to mimicry to keep themselves occupied, and whilst we accept . zoos as a normal part of present day society, it is nonetheless very sad . to witness captive animals being presented with the opportunity to copy . some of the least acceptable aspects of human behaviour.' Hanging out: In a captive environment, with little to do, intelligent primates commonly resort to mimicry to keep themselves occupied . Relax: Kirno enjoys a puff on a cigarette while he hangs out in a tree . Caught in the act: Photographer Agoes Rudianto spotted Kirno smoking in the zoo in central Java Indonesia . Exhale: Smoke can be seen billowing from the orangutan's mouth as he sits back on some grass . Inhale: Kirno has a crafty cigarette by some water surrounded by foliage . Chain smoker: Kirno is shrouded by a cloud of smoke as he smokes another cigarette . Break: The 14-year-old adult male appears to really enjoy his smoke breaks . Unhealthy: The male orangutan's habit is proving a big draw for tourists who visit the zoo . Bad habit: The 14-year-old is now said to be smoking dozens of cigarettes a day . Orangutans are among the most . intelligent primates; they use a variety of sophisticated tools and . construct elaborate sleeping nests each night from branches and foliage. But they are also the most solitary of the . great apes, with social bonds occurring primarily between mothers and . their dependent offspring, who stay together for the first two years. Native to Indonesia and Malaysia, orangutans are currently found in the rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra. They are the two exclusively Asian species of extant great apes. Orangutans spend most of their time in trees. Their hair is typically reddish-brown, instead of the brown or black hair typical of chimpanzees and gorillas. And males and females differ in size and appearance - dominant adult males have distinctive cheek pads and produce long calls that attract females and intimidate rivals. Younger males do not have these characteristics and resemble adult females. Fruit is the most important component of an orangutan's diet; however, the apes will also eat vegetation, bark, honey, insects and even bird eggs. They can live over 30 years in both the wild and captivity. | The teenager began smoking lit cigarettes thrown into his pen by zoo visitors .
The 14-year-old was seen puffing on a fag at Taru Jurug Zoo in Solo, Central Java, Indonesia .
A Zoo spokesman said: 'It's difficult to prevent visitors from giving cigarettes to Kirno.' |
194,328 | 87903eb9ff6f63b9d6b68863a4e08b46c45f0c3d | Adoption chiefs have ended a ban on young children being placed with e-cigarette users after The Mail on Sunday highlighted the ‘misguided’ policy. Last week, this newspaper told how a professional, middle-aged couple had been barred from adopting after a social worker spotted the would-be father ‘smoking’ an e-cigarette. But last Monday, just 24 hours after we published our story, the British Association of Adoption and Fostering (BAAF) updated to its guidance, saying it had changed its e-cigarette policy. At least a dozen councils in England had imposed a blanket-ban on placing children with parents who smoke, but new advice means some of these bans could be lifted . E-cigarettes do not produce smoke and the passive risk to others from the vapour they emit is‘extremely low’, according to a report last year by Public Health England. Neither is there any evidence to back up claims – widely held by e-cigarette critics – that they encourage children to try real cigarettes. Nonetheless, we revealed that at least a dozen councils across England had imposed blanket-bans on placing under-fives with e-cigarette users. The councils cited guidance from the BAAF, which had recommended ‘that users of e-cigarettes be considered as smokers’ until concerns about the devices were cleared up. But now in the update to its guidance, the BAAF stated: ‘At the next meeting of our Health Group Advisory Committee (HGAC), we will be recommending that [fostering and adoption] agencies now consider e-cigarettes as different to tobacco cigarettes. ‘Agencies should therefore recognise the low risk to children and not see the use of e-cigarettes as a reason to preclude foster carers or adopters purely on this basis. Each circumstance should be risk assessed on an individual basis.’ It continued: ‘E-cigarettes appear to have positive benefits for smokers when providing them with a route to abstinence and the risk to children from passive smoke is lessened. ‘However, this needs to be balanced against the risk of providing a model for the child of smoking now, or in the future. New guidelines say e-cigarettes should be considered as different from traditional tobacco cigarettes, as the danger of passive smoking is greatly reduced . ‘We will continue to monitor research into e-cigarettes and will continue reviewing our recommendations.’ The BAAF said it had changed its guidance ‘in light of the latest Public Health England report’ – which The Mail on Sunday cited in last week’s article. ‘Abigail’ and ‘Brian’, who went through a year-long adoption selection process with Staffordshire County Council only to be turned down after Brian was spotted puffing on an e-cigarette, last night hailed the change as ‘really good news’. Abigail said: ‘It’s a shame for us that it took such lengths for things to change, but at least other couples should be spared what we went through.’ Robert West, professor of health psychology at University College London, who last week described the e-cigarette banning policy as ‘misguided and unethical’, said: ‘This is very welcome news, and demonstrates the importance of ensuring that policy decisions are based on good information.’ Ann McNeil, professor of tobacco addiction at the Institute of Psychiatry in London, said: ‘I welcome the changed recommendation, in particular that e-cigarettes be considered different to tobacco cigarettes. ‘E-cigarettes and cigarettes are indeed very different products in how they work, what they contain, what they emit and their relative harmfulness. ‘By making this change, BAAF will help people to understand that e-cigarettes are a less harmful alternative to deadly tobacco cigarettes.’ | Dozen councils in England had bans on foster parents using e-cigarettes .
But guidance has been updated to treat gadgets differently to tobacco .
Change came less than 24 hours after we published a story on issue . |
120,192 | 27550b212fde40b54cadfe44868ecbe60d6d38c8 | By . Tom Kelly . Rolf Harris was yesterday accused of ‘deliberately lying’ during his trial after being confronted with dramatic new TV evidence. He . is accused of molesting a teenager while filming a celebrity It’s a . Knockout-type show in Cambridge in 1975 – but claims he did not visit the university city until 'a couple of years ago, for an art exhibition of my paintings'. However, . jurors at Southwark Crown Court were yesterday shown footage of Harris . taking part in a Thames TV show called Star Games filmed at Jesus Green in Cambridge in 1978. The jury were shown this photograph of Rolf Harris taking part in the ITV programme, Star Games filmed in 1978 in Cambridge . Prosecutor Sasha Wass QC put to Harris that the event was the one that the alleged victim had described. She said: ‘That video supports pretty much everything that (the alleged victim) said apart from the year, she has got the year wrong?’ He replied: ‘By three years, yes, she is out by three years.’ Miss Wass said: ‘But when you told the jury with such confidence last week on Tuesday that you had never been to Cambridge until four years ago, that was a deliberate lie, wasn't it?’ He replied: ‘No, it wasn't. I didn't find out that it was in Cambridge until I saw the video played back and then at the very opening the voiceover introduced it over what I remember was a helicopter shot of the field. ‘That was the first time I had heard the word Cambridge.’ The veteran told jurors: ‘I had no idea. I don't think any of us knew.’ Miss Wass asked: ‘Nobody knew they were in Cambridge?’ Harris replied: ‘None of the performers, none of the stars knew.’ He told the court the performers had probably gone in a bus or coach to the green and he would not necessarily have known where he was. Footage shown to the jury in court yesterday showed Rolf Harris taking part in the celebrity show Star Games on ITV in 1978 . During . the opening credits of the Star Games final, a voiceover said the show . was coming from ‘Cambridge, a tranquil seat of learning.’ Harris . was announced by host Michael Aspel as captain of one of the celebrity . teams, which also included actors Colin Baker, Rula Lenska, Julian . Holloway and Robin Asquith. The Australian could be seen ‘jumping up and down like a kangaroo and mucking about amusingly’, Miss Wass said. She told Harris: ‘Michael Aspel seemed to know where he was because he introduced it as being on Jesus Green, Cambridge.’ Harris told Miss Wass she ‘didn’t understand the showbiz scene’, saying he was . often driven from place to place without knowing the location. The . alleged victim had suggested the event had taken place in the centre of . Cambridge in about 1975 when she would have been 14. Rolf Harris arrives at Southwark Crown Court where he is charged charged with multiple sexual offences dating to the 1960s . She . said she was working part-time to earn pocket money and was clearing up . when she saw Harris entertaining crowds while pretending to be a dog. But she ‘froze’ as he got to his feet and allegedly ran his hands up and down her as he hugged her. Miss . Wass told Harris, who denies the assault: ‘The footage shows you . monkeying around pretending to be an animal – all of which fits the . description [the alleged victim] said she saw prior to being assaulted . by you. Miss Wass asked: ‘Are you saying that you entirely forgot that event?’ He said: ‘I did until I saw the video and then I remembered it all.’ Pressed further by the prosecutor, the entertainer said: ‘I'm doing hundreds of events during the year, going to Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa. ‘This was 36 years ago you're talking about, 1978, not '75 as you stated earlier. 'I had forgotten that event until I saw that video’ He said he had not deliberately lied, but it was a ‘lapse of memory’. Putting it to Harris that he had suggested that the alleged victim lied, Miss Wass said: You . have said categorically in this case that all the people who say they . had been sexually assaulted by you have lied. 'I'm going to suggest that you are the one that has lied and that video demonstrates it, and that there is no way you could have forgotten that event and you deliberately tried to mislead the jury when you told them that you had not been to Cambridge until four years ago. That was a deliberate lie. ‘The film footage ... demonstrated it’s not the victims who have lied, it’s you who lied.’ Harris denies all the charges against him. The trial continues. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article. | Harris is also accused of assaulting another girl in Cambridge around 1975 .
He had claimed he wasn't there and first visited the city only four years ago .
Jury today shown video of him competing in game show in city in 1978 .
He insists he was bussed in and didn't realise programme was filmed there . |
116,797 | 22c8441afa88e86ba715791d6b8d5c56ca6c24d5 | From skyscrapers and bridges to markets and houses, modern buildings can transform the skyline and mood of a city. And in order to create new landmarks and public forums, structural engineers have to marry cutting-edge architectural design and making a building stand up. Now, some of the best new structures around the world – from a new Apple store in Istanbul to a bridge modelled on a Maori fishhook – have been shortlisted for The Structural Awards 2014. Some of the best new structures around the world - from a new Apple store in Istanbul to a bridge modelled on a Maori fishhook - have been shortlisted for The Structural Awards 2014. This is the new Serpentine Sackler Gallery in London . The prestigious competition, run by The Institution of Structural Engineers in London, celebrates innovative designs and materials in all types of buildings and structures. Shortlisted structures include everything from wood-clad eco houses to metallic futuristic market places, shops that look like glass cuboids, bridges with opening parts and a bulbous stock exchange that appears to defy gravity. Certain projects, such as a footbridge in the Rocky Mountains, Canada, had not only to fit into a beautiful location, but to add to the landscape. The prestigious competition, run by The Institution of Structural Engineers in London, celebrates innovative designs and materials in all types of buildings and structures. This is the new lightweight-concrete staircase with a steel core at the Grade I listed Somerset House in London, designed to last for 120 years . Certain projects, such as this footbridge in the Rocky Mountains, Canada, had not only to fit into a beautiful location, but add to the landscape. Structural engineers created a 'minimal' footbridge clad with wood that is designed to absorb the vibrations of walkers and joggers trampling across it.The judges of the competition noted that not only is it practical, bit it 'respects the beautiful natural setting' Structural engineers created a ‘minimal’ footbridge clad with wood that is designed to absorb the vibrations of walkers and joggers trampling across it. The judges of the competition noted that not only is it practical, but it ‘respects the beautiful natural setting’. Some projects shoehorned incredibly modern features such as dramatic metal staircases, into classical older buildings. There are only five elements to this new Apple 'lantern' building - four sheets of glass and a single panel of metal. The only thing holding them together is silicone.'Only engineering excellence and attention to detail can produce a result of such simplicity and purity of expression,' the judges said . The Lower Hatea Crossing (pictured) is part of a plan to reduce traffic congestion around the city of Whangarei, New Zealand. The architectural appearance was inspired by a traditional Maori fish hook.The judges said: 'The client aspired for the bridge to be a public landmark that would reflect the art and culture of the Maori people. The innovative design of the bridge has delivered that aspiration.' And other shortlisted entries pushed the boundaries when it came to the use of materials. Engineers from Arup designed the Shenzhen Stock Exchange in Shenzhen, China. It has a 836ft (255metre) high tower that supports a three storey ‘podium’ 118ft (36 metres) above ground level. The effect is dramatic and also includes a glass façade that changes appearance in different lighting conditions. Entries came from New Zealand, Turkey, China, Germany, Canada, as well as many from the UK and the winners will be announced in London on November 14, 2014. The 738ft (255metre) high tower of the Shenzhen Stock Exchange in China supports a large three-storey podium 118ft (36metre) above ground level. A textured all-glass facade enables the building to sparkle and change appearance according to the lighting conditions . Red Bridge House is set within a remote area of ancient woodland in East Sussex. The vision was to create a bespoke three-storey residential structure, worthy of its unique setting. The judges said: 'Elegant design and detailing combine to give this daringly-conceived project a light, open feeling. The outcome is a delightful residence' Slipstream (pictured) is a giant sculpture in the new Heathrow Terminal 2 building, expressing the movement of a stunt plane flying through the entrance space. It is the longest permanent sculpture in Europe, made from around 32,000 unique parts. The judges said: 'It is a great example of creative art and engineering coming together.' ‘We hold the Structural Awards each year to recognise outstanding work by structural engineers and to raise awareness about the vital global role they play creating innovative design solutions,’ said Martin Powell, Chief Executive of The Institution of Structural Engineers. ‘From skyscraper and bridge construction to heritage and home projects, the awards showcase the full range of chartered structural engineers’ abilities - as trusted professionals, problem solvers, and the guardians of public safety.’ A new market building (pictured) built on a site surrounded by some of Barcelona's busiest transport lanes. The roof was assembled at ground level and jacked up into position . The new bridge at Schönebeck, Germany, (pictured) is the largest cable-stayed bridge in the region, constructed to relieve the City of Schönebeck from a considerable increase of through traffic. The judges were impressed by the elegant simplicity of the bridge, which has been thoughtfully detailed to fit perfectly into the surrounding landscape . The Kew House project (pictured) brings a refreshingly different and highly-engineered approach to the archetypal problem of creating attractive, useable space on a tightly-constrained site, the judges said . | Winners of The Structural Awards 2014 will be announced in London on November 14 .
Entries came from New Zealand, Turkey, China, Germany, Canada, as well as many from the UK .
The prestigious competition, run by The .
Institution of Structural Engineers in London, celebrates innovative .
designs and materials in all types of buildings and structures .
Shortlisted structures include everything .
from wood-clad eco houses to metallic futuristic market places, shops .
that look like glass cuboids, bridges with opening parts and a bulbous .
stock exchange that appears to defy gravity . |
206,876 | 97df6190e4748bfc515a4af966639223740a20f9 | Washington (CNN) -- The state-led push to legalize pot is a "chronic" problem for the Obama administration. Marijuana is not only legal in Colorado and Washington, but cannabis has become a cottage industry complete with 420 sampler tours and shops where customers can buy pot brownies or candy in those two states. And New York and Florida could soon join the 20 states and the District of Columbia where medical marijuana is legal, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. The administration has taken a fuzzy stance on the matter: in states where it's legal to puff, the government will pass on punishment. "We're going to see what happens in the experiments in Colorado and Washington," President Barack Obama said in a recent interview with CNN's Jake Tapper. "The Department of Justice ... has said that we are going to continue to enforce federal laws. But in those states, we recognize that ... the federal government doesn't have the resources to police whether somebody is smoking a joint on a corner." That approach frustrates some in state and federal law enforcement — including the head of the Drug Enforcement Agency, Michele Leonhart, who according to several media reports, blasted the administration's approach during an annual sheriffs meeting last month. Jon Gettman, an assistant professor of criminal justice at Shenandoah University, said it is "politically convenient" for the administration to allow the states to tackle pot policy rather than change the federal approach. "They see social change happening and they're caught between a rock and a hard place," Gettman said. That social change includes a sea change in the way Americans view pot use. A CNN/ORC International poll last month showed that just over half the country — 55% —supports marijuana legalization. This is up from the 16% who felt that way a quarter century ago. Nearly three-quarters of those polled say alcohol is more dangerous than marijuana. Where pot is legal . It's a sentiment the president shares. "As has been well documented, I smoked pot as a kid, and I view it as a bad habit and a vice, not very different from the cigarettes that I smoked as a young person up through a big chunk of my adult life," the President told the New Yorker in a recent interview. "I don't think it is more dangerous than alcohol." Shortly after the interview was published, the administration rushed to clarify the President's position. It said the White House opposes a national move to decriminalize pot despite Obama's personal views on marijuana use. Marijuana is currently classified under the Controlled Substances Act as "Schedule I," much like heroin or cocaine, with a high likelihood for abuse and no medical value. "What is and isn't a Schedule I narcotic is a job for Congress," Obama told Tapper during the CNN interview. However, the President did not say during the interview whether he would urge Congress to move to reclassify marijuana. Rep. Earl Blumenauer, D-Oregon, has been working to gather lawmaker signatures on a letter to Obama in support of reclassifying marijuana. The administration has previously indicated that it is unlikely to reclassify marijuana under a less stringent category of drugs. Frustration with what some lawmakers see as the administration's mixed messaging on marijuana was evident during a House Government Operations Subcommittee hearing on Tuesday. When Michael Botticelli, deputy director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, hedged on answering whether cocaine, methamphetamine or marijuana is more dangerous and addictive Blumenauer pounced. "If a professional like you cannot answer clearly that meth is more dangerous than marijuana which every kid on the street knows, which every parent knows -- if you can't answer that maybe that's why you are failing to educate people about the dangers," he said. "I don't want kids smoking marijuana. ... But if the deputy director of the office of drug policy can't answer that question how do you expect high school kids to take you seriously?" Feds working on new pot banking rules . The administration has "a bad political problem" when it comes to pot, said Kevin Sabet, an assistant professor at the University of Florida's Drug Policy Institute. "I think this is a very difficult position for them and they see it as a lose-lose," said Sabet, who served as a drug policy adviser to both Republican and Democratic administrations and is on the board of directors of Smart Approaches to Marijuana, an anti-pot legalization group. "They don't want to alienate a voting bloc in favor of legalization." Obama's views so incensed the DEA director that Leonhart blew off a little steam about the topic during the annual meeting of the country's sheriffs late last month, according to the Boston Herald. Sheriffs who were present told the paper she expressed frustration over Obama comparing smoking pot to consuming alcohol. "Her comments are not necessarily unexpected," said Dan Riffle, director of federal policies for the Marijuana Policy Project, a pro pot legalization group. There are a lot of folks who have spent the last 20 to 30 years fighting the war on drugs. It's natural for them to revolt." Still, the nation's attitudes and laws regarding marijuana are changing. During a drug policy debate at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, in January, Texas Gov. Rick Perry said he advocated decriminalizing marijuana. But he stopped short of pushing for legalization. However, the stance, coming from a Republican who once ran for President seems to offer further evidence of a change toward views on marijuana even in conservative corners. "As the governor of the second-largest state in the country, what I can do is start us on policies that can start us on the road towards decriminalization," Perry said, adding that he views Colorado's marijuana laws as constitutional but he opposes a federal mandate. The politics of pot even hovered over this year's so-called "Stoner Bowl" as teams from Colorado and Washington faced off in New Jersey, a state where it's illegal to toke. As Super Bowl traffic curled through the Garden State toward Met Life Stadium, drivers had front row seats to an off-field battle of the billboards by pro and anti-marijuana legalization forces. "Marijuana. Safer than alcohol ... and football," boasted a billboard by the Marijuana Policy Project. "Marijuana kills your drive. Don't lose in the game of life," read the counter by Smart Approaches to Marijuana. Pot and the Super Bowl . Eventually though, both marijuana legalization advocates and opponents say, the federal government will have to clear the smoke. "The real issue is: are we going to have a system where 25 states have legalization and 25 states don't?" Gettman said, adding, "Things are going to change dramatically after the next two elections in 2014 and 2016 when more states pass this." The direction of federal pot policy could be determined by upcoming midterms and the 2016 presidential election as states weigh whether to legalize marijuana. There's big money at stake. Billionaire hedge fund manager George Soros gave $1 million in 2010 to help legalize marijuana in California, a vote which ultimately failed. He and fellow billionaires John Sperling and former Progressive Insurance chairman Peter Lewis, who died late last year, have donated millions to the pot legalization causes in a number of states. "The long-hair, tie-dye types cut their hair and put on Armani suits and got very serious about pot," Sabet said adding that opponents worry marijuana could become "the next big tobacco" with billions of dollars at stake for a product they feel has serious health concerns. A slate of anti-government regulation, pro-states rights, GOP potential presidential candidates such as Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul and Perry will find their positions on marijuana tested by factions within their party that oppose legalization. Rubio opposes legalizing or decriminalizing marijuana for recreational use but recently told the Tampa Bay Times that he is open to learning more about medical marijuana. Last year, during an interview with the Hoover Institution, Paul said he is opposed to legalization but does support decriminalization. One place for common ground might be in efforts to decriminalize the penalties for marijuana-related crimes, opponents and advocates say. The push to decriminalize pot has made for some unlikely partnerships. Obama on the problem of criminalizing marijuana use . For example, liberal Democrat Sen. Patrick Leahy of Vermont teamed up with Paul, a tea party backed conservative on a measure aimed at changing mandatory minimum sentences for some crimes such like marijuana possession. The measure also has the support of Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Illinois, and Republican Sen. Mike Lee of Utah. Tea party backed Republican Rep. Raul Labrador, R-Idaho and Congressional Black Caucus member Rep. Robert Scott, D-Virginia have joined forces on a similar measure that would judges more wiggle room in sentencing. Obama, civil rights organizations and both pro and anti-marijuana legalization groups all acknowledge that minorities are often disproportionately incarcerated for pot-related crimes. "My concern is when you end up having very heavy criminal penalties for individual users that have been applied unevenly and in some cases with a racial disparity," Obama told Tapper during the CNN interview. "I think that is a problem." | Obama administration largely taking a pass on bumper crop of state pot laws .
State and federal lawmen frustrated by patchwork of pot laws, Obama administration attitude .
Midterm and 2016 elections could herald a change on nation's marijuana policies .
Experts say the federal government will eventually have to step in . |
150,467 | 4e887cc0d117feecfc55263fbb0292a9ef59336f | By . Paul Donnelley for MailOnline . You would think the point of a ‘race’ is to try to come first. But not if you’re entering this year’s ‘four-legged’ and wheelbarrow events at a Wiltshire village carnival - which have been hit by health and safety edicts. The four-legged race through the village of Pewsey - which sees teams of three competitors tying a leg to each other - has traditionally involved pit-stops at four pubs. Changes to the 2003 Licensing Act means that competitors in the races are not allowed alcoholic refreshments . But this year those trying to win the race will have to go teetotal if - according to police - they don’t want to fall foul of the Licensing Act, which bans the drinking of alcohol ‘at speed’. The organisers of Thursday’s event have decided that they are going to stay in line with the law to avoid the risk of prosecution, so competitors will have to stick to water or a soft drink. Those entering the wheelbarrow race the following Thursday will have to obey the same restrictions as they pass by the four pubs. But entrants for both events will be able to stop for as many drinks as they want, downed at whatever speed they wish, if they pledge to complete the course very slowly. ‘The races have been going for 33 years and we’ve only had one person fall out of a wheelbarrow which isn’t bad going,' said a local councillor . The snail’s pace events will start five minutes after the teetotal races. The drinking ban has angered some residents in the close-knit community where the two-week-long carnival has been going on for generations without any trouble. Jerry Kunkler, a Wiltshire Councillor and landlord of the village’s Moonrakers pub, said “It’s all to do with health and safety which I don’t always agree with. ‘We live in a nanny state and it’s the minority that the rules are in place for and the majority are the ones that have to pay. ‘The races have been going for 33 years and we’ve only had one person fall out of a wheelbarrow which isn’t bad going.” Organisers said on their website that the new rules had been drawn up for this year’s races following a meeting with Wilshire Police, Wiltshire Police Licensing Officer and Wiltshire Council. We're only here for the beer: Organisers said on their website that the new rules had been drawn up for this year’s races following a meeting with Wilshire Police, Wiltshire Police Licensing Officer and Wiltshire Council . The new stance has taken its lead from changes in 2009 to the 2003 Licensing Act which bans ‘irresponsible promotions’. In particular, they bar ‘any game or activity characterised by the consumption of alcohol at speed or within a prescribed time limit’. The regulations are aimed at discouraging promotions such as those involving downing ‘shots’ in club or pub contests. But the carnival race organisers were worried that with competitors charging along the streets, stopping frequently to down booze as onlookers cheered them on, he event could lay itself open to contravening the new laws. Entrants for both events will be able to stop for as many drinks as they want, downed at whatever speed they wish, if they pledge to complete the course very slowly . Organiser David Major said ‘It’s been a bit of a nightmare but we’ll just have to see how things go. ‘The changes have been coming in slowly of a period of years and we’ve just had to make this change to comply with the law. Where are you all coming from? We know where they are not going... to the pub, at least nor during the races . ‘We won’t know how it will affect entries until the day, but people have been talking about it, so hopefully everyone will still get into the spirit of things.’ Wiltshire police sergeant Vince Louge said ‘The races in the last few years have been extremely well run and there have been little, if any, problems. ‘The new rules are there simply to comply with new licensing laws and obviously we support that and the organisers have been very flexible in accommodating the changes.’ | Four-legged race through the village of Pewsey traditionally involves pit-stops at four pubs .
Police say Licensing Act bans the drinking of alcohol ‘at speed’
Competitors will have to restrict themselves to soft drinks or water . |
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