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09462fc7907ff7aacc3e777f49640b54d4490fbe | By . Helen Pow . PUBLISHED: . 12:01 EST, 19 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 12:02 EST, 19 December 2013 . He may not have won Tuesday's Mega Millions jackpot, but Warren Buffett probably doesn't care. The investing genius made an eye-popping $37 million a day in 2013 - that's $1.5 million an hour - simply watching the shares in his conglomerate soar by more than 25 per cent. The Berkshire Hathaway boss' net worth bounced $12.7 billion to $59.1 billion over the period, making him the billionaire who made the most cash this year, according to a new survey. Battling it out: Warren Buffett, left, made $37million a day in 2013 - that's $1.5million an HOUR - bringing his eye-popping net worth to $59billion but Bill Gates, right, still tops the list of the world's richest people . But even with his staggering money-making, Buffett, who lives a notoriously humble existence despite his billions, only came second on the list of the world's Top 10 richest people, compiled by Wealth-X. Microsoft founder and chairman Bill Gates took the top spot for another year, with a total net worth of $72.6 billion, up from $61.1 billion in 2012. Gates' impressive gain saw him come second to Buffett in the gains stakes, and in third place was casino mogul Sheldon Adelson, who's worth an estimated $35.3 billion this year after raking in $11.4 billion from his gambling houses in Las Vegas, Macau and Singapore. Big year: Amazon's Jeff Bezos's $11.3 billion in earnings snatched him fourth place while Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg added $10.5 billion to make up a now staggering $24.7 billion net worth and take fifth spot . 1. Warren Buffett up $12.7b to $59.1b 2. Bill Gates up $11.5b to $72.6b3. Sheldon Adelson up $11.4b to $35.3b4. Jeff Bezos up $11.3b to $34.4b5. Mark Zuckerberg up $10.5b to $24.7b6. Masayoshi Son up $10.3b to $19.1b7. Sergey Brin up $9.3b to $30b8. Larry Page up $9.3b to $29.9b9. Lui Chee Woo up $8.3b to $19.6b10. Carl Icahn up $7.2b to $22.1b . Silicon Valley took four of the next five slots on the biggest gains list with Amazon's Jeff Bezos's $11.3 billion in earnings snatching him fourth place. His net worth now sits at $35.3 billion, according to Wealth-X. Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg added $10.5 billion to make up a now staggering $24.7 billion net worth and take fifth spot. Meanwhile, Google founders Sergey Brin and Larry Page took seventh and eighth place with equal gains of $9.3 billion bringing their total fortunes to $30 billion and $29.9 billion respectively. The remaining billionaires on the men-only money made list include Japanese businessman Masayoshi Son, who took sixth place, Lui Chee Woo, the Chinese chairman of K. Wah Group, which owns Galaxy Entertainment, who took ninth. Closing off the list of biggest gainers was New York investor Carl Icahn. Google gainers: Google founders Sergey Brin, left, and Larry Page, right took seventh and eighth place with equal gains of $9.3 billion bringing their total fortunes to $30 billion and $29.9 billion respectively . According to Wealth-X, the top 10 collectively gained $101.8 billion in 2013, an average gain of $10.2 billion each. The combined wealth of the 10 individuals now totals a gob-smacking $347 billion, up from $245 billion in January 2013. Per day, they made $29 million on average, and increased their wealth by 41.6 per cent, outperforming the 24 per cent returns seen in the S&P 500. | The Berkshire Hathaway boss' net worth bounced from $12.7 billion to $59.1 billion when shares in the conglomerate soared over 25 per cent .
But Microsoft founder Bill Gates took the top spot on the list of the world's richest people for another year, with a total net worth of $72.6 billion, up from $61.1 billion in 2012 .
Other strong gainers included Silicon Valley stars Amazons Jeff Bezos, Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg and Google's Sergey Brin and Larry Page . |
0946fd1525655ffbeb81a974856f29c0d45e1d39 | By . Daily Mail Reporter and Associated Press Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 15:40 EST, 15 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 18:16 EST, 15 August 2013 . A 16th woman has come forward alleging that San Diego Mayor Bob Filner sexually harassed her. Peggy Shannon, 67, who works part-time at the Senior Citizens Service Desk in the lobby of the City Administration Building, said Thursday that Filner repeatedly asked her out during work and that he once grabbed her and kissed her on the lips. Shannon claims that Filner, 70, also once told her that he could 'go eight hours straight' in an apparent reference to sex. Scroll down for video . Peggy Shannon (left) claimed in a press conference with attorney Gloria Allred (right) that Mayor Bob Filner kissed her and made inappropriate comments to her . Shannon claims that at one point, Filner grabbed her and kissed her. She said he also once told her that he could 'go eight hours' in an apparent reference to sex . Peggy Shannon who works at the Senior Citizens Service Desk in San Diego City Hall . San Diego Mayor Bob Filner speaks during a news conference at city hall on July 26, 2013. Filner is challenging a recall effort after more than a dozen women have accused him of sexual harassment . 'On the day that Mayor Filner grabbed me and kissed me, I was so surprised,' Shannon said at a press conference Thursday with celebrity attorney Gloria Allred. 'I went home and cried.' On July 18, Shannon filed with the EEO office claiming that Mayor Filner had sexually harassed her. She received a response that her allegations would be reviewed. Explaining why she has decided to come forward with her story, Shannon, a mother and great-grandmother, said, 'I want to do the right thing for San Diego.' Fifteen other women have accused the former congressman of making unwanted advances, such as inappropriate statements or groping. He is resisting calls to resign and says that he went to therapy to help him learn how to better respect women. Michelle Tyler, center, speaks during a news conference alongside former Marine Katherine Ragazzino, right, and attorney Gloria Allred, left . Michelle Tyler alleges San Diego Mayor Bob . Filner made inappropriate advances on her while she was seeking help for . Marine Katherine Ragazzino (right) Earlier Thursday, attorney Kathryn Vaughn became the 15th woman to come forward with sexual harassment accusations against the mayor. Vaughn said she encountered Filner 10 years ago at a public event when he was a congressman. 'He made an inappropriate movement on my body, yes,' Vaughn said when asked if she was groped. University of California, San Diego, political science professor Steve Erie said Filner seems to be in denial but also may be trying to appear like he is digging in his heels so he has more negotiating power over his future. The mayor's stubbornness could be aimed at leveraging a deal to leave office under the condition that he shed his financial responsibilities if the city loses a sexual harassment lawsuit filed by Filner's former communications director, Irene McCormack Jackson, Erie said. Veronica 'Ronne' Froman (front left), Sharon Bernie-Cloward (front right), Joyce Gattas (back left), and Patti Roscoe (back right) have all claimed that they were harassed by Filner . 'I think what we're seeing here is bunker mentality,' Erie said. 'I think our mayor is still in denial or he wants to appear like he will resolve to fight it to the end. This may be a bargaining strategy, because the minute he resigns, all bets are off, and he's lost leverage.' Several businesses — including four Hooters restaurant locations — have posted signs from a radio talk show campaign stating the establishments will not serve the mayor because 'we believe women should be treated with respect.' Melissa Fry, director of marketing for HootWinc, the West Coast Hooters franchise told Slate magazine it was not a political move but was a stand for the fair treatment of women. Action: Irene McCormack Jackson, the mayor's former director of communications Jackson sued the mayor and the city on July 22 . Filner has not been seen publicly since entering an intensive two-week therapy session. His lawyers said Filner would not be available for comment this week while he receives outpatient care. The mayor has apologized for what he says was inappropriate behavior and acknowledged disrespecting and intimidating women. But he has said he is not guilty of sexual harassment. The nine-member City Council and state and federal elected officials have urged Filner to step down. | Peggy Shannon, 67, works part-time at the Senior Citizens Service Desk in the lobby of the City Administration Building .
Shannon claimed in a press conference Thursday that San Diego Mayor Bob Filner .
once grabbed her and kissed her .
She says he also once told her he could 'go eight hours' in an apparent reference to sex .
Shannon is the 16th woman to make sexual harassment claims against Filner, 70, in the last month . |
0948c6459b25123e34ef04a66aac8ab8be11a567 | Archaeologists working under the direction of the Israeli Antiquities Authority have uncovered a 1500-year-old road running through the center of Jerusalem's Old City. Excavation director Dr. Ofer Sion said the discovery lends further credence to the accuracy of what is known as the Madaba Map - a Byzantine period mosaic map of the Holy Land that depicts an entrance into Jerusalem that leads to a single central street. Archaeologists working in Jerusalem have made various finds to suggest the Madaba map was geographically correct, but the road depicted in the mosaic had not been found. "It is proof of this beautiful map and for this street from the Byzantine period" Sion told reporters at the dig location. The ancient road was found near the Jaffa Gate of Jerusalem's Old City 4.5 meters under current street level when municipality workers initiated an infrastructure improvement project. The road dates from the period when Jerusalem was under Christian control and was constructed with large flagstones of more than a meter in length. Sion said the road connected the western wall of the city to the eastern side of Jerusalem and commented that at that time "hundreds of thousands of people are reaching the city, pilgrims from all over the world, and they are coming to Jerusalem and entering through the gate and going down the center, to the market of the city. They are going down in this street..." Next to the road archaeologists also discovered a stone foundation which supported a sidewalk and a row of columns. In a written statement Sion remarked "It is wonderful to see that David Street, which is teeming with so much life today, actually preserved the route of the noisy street from 1,500 years ago". Other artefacts discovered in the excavation included coins, pottery vessels, and five bronze weights that are believed to have been used by merchants for weighing precious metals. The Madaba map, is large 8 X 16 meter mosaic located in the apse of the church of Saint George in Masdaba, Jordan. It is the oldest known cartographic representation of the Holy Land and at it's center is a detailed depiction of Jerusalem in the 6th century C.E.. The mosaic has served as a guide to historians and archaeologists as to what Byzantine period Jerusalem may have looked like and depicts many landmarks that survive until this day including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and Damascus Gate. | Ancient road uncovered running through Jerusalem's center .
Discovery lends credence to Byzantine Madaba Map theory .
Road found near Jaffa Gate, 4.5 meters under current street level . |
0949aa4a17ab0feaf568d9728d4051eb93efc765 | By . Lucy Crossley . PUBLISHED: . 04:43 EST, 28 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 07:06 EST, 28 November 2013 . A rugby player who started growing cannabis to pay back cash owed to payday loan companies killed himself after his home was burgled and the plants stolen. Matthew Allott had amassed £17,000 in debt, including money from payday loans which were taken out by a friend on his behalf. The 36-year-old was so desperate to pay back the money that he started growing marijuana plants in his home, hoping to raise £8,000 from selling the drug. Worry: Rugby player Matthew Allott was so desperate to pay off his debts that he started growing cannabis. He was found hanged after the plants were stolen in a break-in . However, an inquest into the . 36-year-old's death heard how on the weekend the plants matured he came . home after a party to find they had been stolen in a break-in, and his . dog had vanished. Mr Allott sent a text message to a friend saying 'been robbed', and then told him on the phone: 'Someone’s stolen my plants and the dog’s gone.' His body was discovered the next day. He had hanged himself. Sportsman: Mr Allott played centre for Rotherham Phoenix rugby union team and before that spent 16 seasons with Rawmarsh Warriors, where he was the second highest try scorer of all time . Mr Allott played . centre for Rotherham Phoenix rugby union team and before that spent 16 . seasons with Rawmarsh Warriors where he was the second highest try . scorer of all time. Friend . Catherine Reilly told the inquest in Rotherham that the solar panel . fitter had been struggling with money for the last 18 months and owed . £17,000 prior to his death. She then offered to borrow money from controversial payday loans companies, which sometimes charge interest rates of up 4,000 per cent, on his behalf. Another rugby league player, Kenny Davis, 23, also hanged himself in January this year after secretly getting himself thousands of pounds into debt with payday loan companies. Mr Davies was out of work yet was paying sums of around £400 a time after taking out arrangements with online loan firms which sometimes charge interest rates of up 4,000 per cent. On the day of his death, Mr Davis had asked a neighbour to act as a guarantor for a £3,500 loan over 36 months. But the neighbour refused and Kenny was found dead in woods near his home in Swinton, near Salford, Greater Manchester, just 30 minutes later. Paperwork relating to a loan agreement from an online lending company was found in his pocket. And messages showing enquiries he made . to payday loan firms involving sums between £400 and 'substantial . amounts' were also discovered on his mobile phone. In August 2012, debt-ridden father Antony Breeze (pictured above with his partner Amanda Lowe) doused himself in petrol after he was harrassed for money by payday loan firms. He had racked up debts of around £1,600. The 36-year-old from Horwich, near Bolton, told passers-by who tried to extinguish the flames: 'I've had enough'. In the hours before the tragedy, Mr Breeze was bombarded with text messages about his arrears, an inquest heard, and was so worried about the debt that he lost a stone in weight in just two weeks. Police investigating his death found . he owed money to several lenders. Mr Breeze was taken to hospital after he was found by a passer by but died hours later from 73 per cent burns. She said in a statement: 'I didn’t . have any money to give him so suggested he get a payday loan. I took out . the loans and let him pay me back. These loans continued through the . last 18 months.' The inquest heard Mr Allott once had nothing to eat so Ms Reilly bought him £50 of food, and also bailed him out with cash when the bailiffs came knocking. 'He was always worried about what other people thought about him,' she said. 'His friends had flash cars and splashed money about and he tried to keep up when he couldn’t afford it.' The hearing was told that bailiffs had been pursuing him over a parking ticket, which had risen to £460 and he had talked about ending it all. 'I told him off for talking like that for the sake of £460,' said Ms Reilly. 'He had been discussing declaring himself bankrupt when he hit upon the idea of growing cannabis - he called them “tomato plants” - to raise cash. 'He was going to use the money from the sale of the plants to sort himself out. 'He was planning to register himself bankrupt when his “tomato” plants were ready.' The inquest was told that Mr Allott hoped to raise £8,000 from the sale of the cannabis, and wanted to use the that cash to repay a debt he owed involving a paving business. He gave Ms Reilly £330 towards a payday loan repayment just two days before his body was found on Monday, March 11 at his home on Bevan Place, Rawmarsh, South Yorkshire, the hearing was told. 'He was relying on the cash from the plants to get his life back on track,' she said. 'I just realised how helpless he must have felt.' Another friend Christopher Webb said Mr Allott had been in good spirits when he attended Mr Webb's wedding reception on March 9, and that he had played for Phoenix that afternoon. 'He was a bit merry but not falling all over,' Mr Webb said. 'It was a good night out and we all had a good laugh.' Mr Allott, who lived alone, returned . home in the early hours of Sunday to find his back door had been kicked . in and his house burgled. His friend Anthony O’Donnell found his body on . Monday morning when he did not turn up for a lift to work. Investigating officer Detective . Constable Lisa Yates said the house was clean and tidy except for . cannabis leaves strewn up the stairs. The four mature plants growing in . pots in the loft had been cut off at the roots. 'Stealing cannabis is quite lucrative and we are seeing it more and more,' she said. 'Matthew pinned all his hopes on selling the cannabis as being the answer to his financial problems.' Hearing: Rotherham Coroner's Court was told that Mr Allott had struggled with money problems and that his long-standing debts 'played on his mind' Rotherham coroner Nicola Mundy said Mr Allott was very well-liked, popular and had a large circle of friends. 'He was employed but he did struggle with money problems which was a burden to him,' she said. 'His long-standing debts played on his mind and caused him anxiety.' Recording a verdict of suicide she added: 'I think matters had simply got too much for him.' For confidential support on suicide matters call the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90 or visit a local Samaritans branch or click here. The death of Matthew Allott comes at a time of intense criticism of the payday loans industry. Firms have been faced scrutiny for their high interest levels and . charges, including annual percentage rates (APR) of more than 5,000 per cent. The Debt Advisory Centre has said that 37 per cent of its new clients this year owe money to payday lenders, more than double the 2011 figure of 18 per cent. The centre says this reflects the . 'rapid, highly-publicised, expansion of the payday lending industry' over the last few years, as well as the still increasing popularity of . short-term loans. The Government recently announced plans to cap the cost of payday loans. A cap already exists in Australia where the maximum a lender can . charge is a set-up fee equivalent to 20 per cent of the loan, plus 4 per . cent a month. Labour leader Ed Miliband has also spoken out about firms who plug their expensive services with cartoon-like adverts. However, a spokesman for the Consumer Finance Association, which represents lenders maintained that the adverts were not designed to appeal to children. A study by the Centre for Social Justice, released earlier this . month. found that the market for short-term high-cost credit from . companies such as payday lenders is now worth £4.8 billion a year, it . said. Payday lenders have increased business from £900 million in 2008/09 . to just over £2 billion - around eight million loans - in 2011/12, . according to the CSJ. Around half of payday loan customers reported taking out the money . because it was the only form of credit they could get, the study found. | Matthew Allott hoped to sell the marijuana for £8,000, inquest hears .
Centre played for Rotherham Phoenix and Rawmarsh Warriors rugby teams .
Told friends he had been struggling for money and took out payday loans .
Coroner records verdict of suicide . |
0949e5320ed12be100346268babad6cc99a5f333 | By . Dan Bloom . A humble bungalow which a family bought for just £1,000 almost a century ago has been turned into a luxury holiday home worth £5million. Dr Edward Andreae paid just £40,000 in today's money for the home on Dorset's Sandbanks peninsula, an exposed spit in Poole Harbour which many people feared would be too unstable to live on. But the home soared in value as the tiny enclave's popularity soared, becoming what is now the fourth most expensive property hotspot in the world. The way we were: This is the humble bungalow bought for just £1,000 in the 1920s on the prime Sandbanks peninsula in Dorset. The site is now worth £5million . Luxury: The bungalow, bought by the current owner's great-grandfather, was demolished and replaced with this luxury seven-bedroom house which is let out to holidaymakers for £4,000 a week. Owner Tim Baldwin said he will bring his 10-month-old daughter to the house to have the same experiences he did as a child . History: The peninsula and its modest huts around 100 years ago in a postcard. Tim Baldwin's great-grandfather bought his bungalow for just £1,000 in the 1920s . Idyll: The approximate location of the house on the peninsula, whose millionaire residents include QPR manager Harry Redknapp and Crystal Palace manager Tony Pulis . Desirable: Houses began to be built on the spit in the late 1800s, but the current boom only took off in the 1960s. Pictured: A plan of the area from 1896 . The bolthole was passed down through four generations of the same family until it fell into a state of disrepair. In . 2011 Dr Andreae’s great-grandson, Tim Baldwin, and his father Jonathan, . made the drastic decision to demolish the 90-year-old home and erect a . new one in its place. They . spent £580,000 creating a luxurious beachfront house that is now worth . 5,000 times (500,000 per cent) more than the original holiday home. The two-storey property, named Hook Sands after the old bungalow, has seven bedrooms and five bathrooms. It is clad in larch wood, powered by solar panels and has a garden that backs onto the beach. Interior . designer Mr Baldwin, 33, from Bath, rents the house to holidaymakers . from April to October each year for up to £4,100 a week. He . said: 'For the last 90 years the bungalow has been in my family. It was . originally purchased by my great grandfather, so that there was a place . that everyone could go on holiday together. Bolthole: The luxury home is now available to rent for up to £4,000 a week - four times more than the amount the plot was originally bought for in the 1920s . Luxurious: Sandbanks, a spit measuring less than half a square mile and jutting into Poole Harbour, has the fourth-highest land value in the world . Pristine: But many people were unwilling to move into homes on the peninsula in the early 1900s because they were concerned about the stability of the land . 'It was a much loved place and I have good memories of spending every summer there as a child, and it wasn’t for a long time that I had a holiday abroad. 'It has been passed through my family and over the years it has had various additions and alterations and was rather like patch work. 'There was no central heating in the bungalow which was difficult in the colder months and we wanted a house that could be used year round. “We decided that instead of trying to fix the various problems that there were with the house, that we should take it to the ground and build it back up. 'It was a very special place to me and when the bulldozers came in and the house came down I thought I would be a lot sadder, but it’s all about the location and the views. 'We wanted to create a contemporary house that was going to last for another 100 years. 'I’m really looking forward to taking my daughter, who is 10 months old, to the property for holidays so she can do the same things I did as a child.' Houses were first built on Sandbanks in the late 19th century, but it was not always such . a popular place to live. Luxurious: Sandbanks as the area is today. Last month an old bungalow which would be worth just £200,000 elsewhere went on the market for £2.25million . Sea view: Once a humble holiday bungalow, the sprawling seven-bedroom luxury house looks out over the English Channel and a secluded beach . £1,000 was a common sale price for houses there despite the average price of a five-bed family home being more than double that (£2,074) in 1930. Even a three-bed semi was more expensive at £1,192. Only in a property boom in the 1960s did the peninsula - measuring less than half a square mile - become more and more built-up, turning into a Millionaires' Row filled with luxury beachfront mansions. Sandbanks is home to QPR manager Harry Redknapp, Crystal Palace manager Tony Pulis and computer magnate Sir Peter Ogden. Last month a tatty 1950s three-bedroom Sandbanks bungalow which would be worth just £200,000 in most other parts of the country went on sale for an eye-watering £2.25million. And in March, an empty plot on the exclusive enclave went on sale for £3million - double what it had sold for before its old bungalow was knocked down. Adrian Dunford, of Tailor Made Estate . Agents, said: 'If this property was to come onto the market we would . look to market it at circa five million pounds. 'A lot of the plots in Sandbanks were purchased for less than 1,000 pounds in the early 1900s.' | Bungalow bought cheaply in 1920s on Dorset's Sandbanks, when it was feared surface was too unstable to live on .
But since then the peninsula in Poole Harbour has become fourth most expensive property hotspot in the world .
Buyer's great-grandson Tim Baldwin turned home into luxury beachfront retreat in 2011 with work costing £580,000 .
He said: 'I'm really looking forward to taking my daughter for holidays so she can do the same things I did as a child' |
094a06fd920433493c65ae494b68e360ab2bdfe3 | By . Ryan Gorman . PUBLISHED: . 01:59 EST, 21 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 02:05 EST, 21 December 2013 . In the running: Ian Bayne used his platform as a Congressional candidate to compare reality star Phil Robertson to Rosa Parks . A Republican candidate for Congress from Illinois says ‘Duck Dynasty’ patriarch Phil Robertson is the ‘Rosa Parks of our generation.’ Ian Bayne, 39, and running for the House of Representatives seat for the 11th District of Illinois, made the comparison to Ms Parks in an official statement released Friday on his website. Mr Bayne, from the Chicago suburb of Aurora, is running against a handful of other candidates in the 2014, according to the Daily Herald, which first flagged the remarks. ‘In December 1955, Rosa Parks took a stand against an unjust societal persecution of black people, and in December 2013, Robertson took a stand against persecution of Christians,’ Mr Bayne said. ‘What Parks did was courageous,’ he added. ‘What Mr. Robertson did was courageous too.’ The GOP candidate’s comparison of the reality star to the famous civil rights activist came under immediate criticism. ' after the he came under fire for his racially charged remarks to GQ. ‘I never, with my eyes, saw the mistreatment of any black person,’ he told the magazine. ‘Not once. Where we lived was all farmers. The blacks worked for the farmers.’ ‘They’re singing and happy,’ he continued. ‘I never heard one of them, one black person, say, ‘I tell you what: These doggone white people’—not a word.’ Mr Robertson was immediately suspended from ‘Duck Dynasty’ as several conservative politicians came to his defense. Outspoken: 'Duck Dynasty' star Phil Robertson has ignited a firestorm with his comments to GQ . ‘Phil Robertson and his family are great citizens of the State of Louisiana,’ Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal said in a statement. ‘The politically correct crowd is tolerant of all viewpoints, except those they disagree with - I remember when TV networks believed in the First Amendment.’ Even more damning footage emerged Thursday of an anti-gay sermon given by the 67-year-old born-again Christian. ‘They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents and they are senseless, faithless, heartless, ruthless.' Though he never directly calls out homosexuals, the implications are obvious. Fans of the show have completely bought out Walmart’s stock of ‘Duck Dynasty’ merchandise, showing that not everyone is upset with his controversial comments. The Robertson family is currently in discussions with A&E over the future of the show. | Ian Bayne, 39, is running for the 11th District of Illinois in the US House of Representatives in 2014 .
He is not the first conservative politician to rush to 'Duck Dynasty' star Phil Robertson's defense . |
094af36b3d54db5bba958154ed1fd725a2f4ceb2 | (CNN) -- Real Madrid sealed a record-extending 32nd La Liga title after Wednesday's 3-0 win at Athletic Bilbao maintained an unassailable seven-point lead over arch rivals and defending Spanish champions Barcelona with two matches to play. Goals from Gonzalo Higuain, Mesut Ozil and Cristiano Ronaldo wrapped up the clinching victory for Jose Mourinho's men at San Mames. Mourinho has now won league titles in Portugal with Porto, England with Chelsea, Italy with Inter and Spain with Real, who broke Barcelona's three-year La Liga reign. "This one has been the toughest. I've won seven league titles overall and I know what it feels like," Mourinho told the club's website. "Barcelona won all their games, as befits the great team that they are. They've been winning to the very last day. They are a club with great tradition that knows we deserved to win this title." Earlier on Wednesday, Barca thrashed fourth-placed Malaga 4-1 to keep up the pressure on Real as Lionel Messi scored his eighth hat-trick this season and broke Gerd Muller's record for a European season. Argentina's three-time world player of the year now has 68 goals in 2011-12, going past the mark Germany legend Muller set in 1972-73 for Bayern Munich. It took Messi's tally in La Liga to 46, two more than Ronaldo, but his efforts have proved in vain. Real's trip to the Europa League finalists looked a tough one, and when Ronaldo saw an early penalty saved by Gorka Iraizoz, their small band of supporters might have been worried. But Argentina striker Higuain settled nerves with a fine strike before Ronaldo played in Ozil for a second to make it 2-0 at halftime. Early in the second half the Portugal star netted his 44th in the league this season with a close-range header, and Bilbao's last hopes of salvaging something from the game ended when Javi Martinez was sent off for a second yellow card. At the finish Mourinho was hoisted high by his players as they celebrated the club's first championship since 2008. "We have to celebrate this championship. We have to continue working after tomorrow because next season will also be tough and we have games to play still in this campaign," the 49-year-old said. "This team deserves even more emotion and affection, and I expect the Bernabeu to give it to them in our match against Mallorca." The Dutch title was also decided on Wednesday as Ajax Amsterdam beat VVV Venlo 2-0 with goals in each half from Siem De Jong. It is Ajax's second straight title under Frank de Boer and came after a late-season charge with 13 straight wins. Ajax were eight points behind joint leaders PSV Eindhoven and AZ Alkmaar in mid-February before their unstoppable run. In Serie A, Juventus' lead was cut to a single point after being held to a 1-1 draw by 10-man Lecce. Second-placed AC Milan beat Atalanta 2-0 to revive their hopes on a night Juve could have clinched the title if results had gone in their favor. Sulley Muntari put Milan ahead in the San Siro and Robinho sealed a vital victory in injury time. In Turin, Juventus appeared to be cruising to a routine home win when Claudio Marchisio scored in the first half. Lecce's hopes appeared over when Juan Cuadrado was sent off for a second booking early in the second half, but the leaders wasted a string of chances before Andrea Bertolacci took advantage of a horrible error by home keeper Gianluigi Buffon to level. In other action, Inter Milan's Champions League chances receded with a 3-1 loss at Parma which left the 2010 European titleholders three points behind Napoli and Udinese in the race for third place. | Real Madrid beat Athletic Bilbao 3-0 to clinch La Liga title .
Lionel Messi sets scoring record in earlier Barcelona win over Malaga .
Ajax clinch Dutch title with 2-0 win over VVV Venlo .
Juventus lead cut to one point in Serie A with 1-1 draw against Lecce . |
094b3813b872ff37cbb04a7174cd0a70f0beb8d4 | Nintendo games consoles might be wrapped up under a lot of trees this Christmas but scientists have found that unless you take plenty of breaks from playing, you might just end up in hospital. Nintendo consoles have been linked to dozens of injuries to gamers, including Wii-itis to a stroke, . While most have suffered little more than a sore thumb from hammering the buttons too hard, some have been struck down with life threatening injuries from playing too much. Scientist found 38 cases of Nintendo related injuries and problems ranging from neurological and psychological to surgical . Two patients were rushed to hospital having had a stroke after playing on a Nintendo Wii, while another needed surgery for a hernia after exercising on the Wii Fit game. A 55-year-old woman was also found to have suffered a massive chest bleed after falling on to her sofa while playing tennis on her Wii. The injuries were uncovered after a team of Dutch researchers gathered all reported cases of Nintendo-related problems to see whether it was a safe present to give at Christmas. After searching two medical databases they found 38 reports of injuries and problems ranging from neurological and psychological to surgical. The findings, published in the Christmas issue of the British Medical Journal, include early reports of seizures, dubbed 'Nintendo epilepsy'. There were also two cases of Nintendo-related incontinence, where children were so engrossed in playing Super Mario Bros they ignored the need to got to the toilet. A case of 'Nintendo neck' was reported in a child playing his Game Boy for 30 minutes in a hunched position, while 'Nintendo elbow' was diagnosed in a 12-year-old who played his console 'a lot' for more than a month. Nintendo-related problems in the thumb, hand and wrist are referred to as 'nintendinitis' or 'nintendonitis', and were associated with strenuous game play using a traditional controller with buttons or a joystick. Nintendo, who produces the Wii, says it is committed to the safety of its customers . After receiving more than 90 complaints, Nintendo handed out protective gloves to all owners of the game Mario Party, in which players had to rotate the joystick quickly with their thumb. And after Nintendo introduced the Wii in 2006, with its motion-sensitive remote controller, there were reports of injuries arising from playing its most popular game, Wii Sports. A 29-year-old man was found to have acute tendinitis in his right shoulder after playing the game for several hours. Another report described a case of carpal tunnel syndrome in a woman who played a bowling game for six to eight hours daily for 10 days. There were also two reports of Achilles 'wii-itis' - a partial tear of the Achilles tendon. Tennis was found to be the most dangerous Wii sport overall, and the most common injuries were hand lacerations and bruising. The researchers, led by Dr Maarten Jalink of the University of Groningen, said: 'Overall, a Nintendo is a relatively safe Christmas present. 'However, those who receive such a gift should not swing the controller too hard, they should be careful about where they play, and they should take frequent breaks.' A spokesman for Nintendo said: 'The Wii video game system is often credited with getting people up off the couch. But, as with any activity, people playing the Wii system, or any other Nintendo product should pace themselves and not overdo it. 'Nintendo is committed to the safety of its customers and always includes comprehensive health and safety guidelines with its products. Provided these are followed correctly, a user should be able to enjoy their Nintendo product safely.' | Dutch researchers looked at whether Nintendo consoles are a safe present .
They found 38 reports of injuries after searching two medical databases .
Findings of the study have been published in the British Medical Journal .
Researchers conclude Nintendo is a relatively safe present this Christmas . |
094c858141efdb7d6b5d61da1b6d800cc10e78c5 | The angry mother of a victim of the Oxford sex grooming gang last night demanded: ‘Someone needs to take the blame.’ Catastrophic failings by police and social services enabled the sadistic group to drug, rape and traffic girls as young as 11 for eight years. Victims repeatedly told police they had been abused and sexually tortured and care-home staff just watched as the men collected the under-age girls at night. But despite the catalogue of appalling blunders and missed opportunities – and David Cameron warning police and council chiefs they faced ‘very searching questions’ – nobody is prepared to take the blame. Scroll down for video . Oxfordshire County Council's chief executive Joanna Simons, left, and Thames Valley Police chief constable Sara Thornton, right, have both refused to resign despite their organisations' failure to stop the abuse sooner . Seven members of a paedophile ring were found guilty at the Old Bailey of a catalogue of child sex abuse charges . Both Thames Valley Police Chief . Constable Sara Thornton and Joanna Simons, head of Oxfordshire County . Council, say they will not resign. Their defiance, a day after the seven . vicious and ‘medieval’ predators were convicted at the Old Bailey, came . as: . Most of the eight-year campaign of . abuse by the gang took place after Miss Thornton was appointed head of . the Thames Valley force in 2007. Brothers Bassam Karrar (left) and Mohammed Karrar (right) were found guilty at the Old Bailey yesterday . Assad Hussain was cleared of raping Child A but convicted of having sex with a child . She yesterday apologised for not . acting sooner, but when asked if she had considered resigning from her . £160,000-a-year post, she said: ‘The focus has got to be moving forward. I think the focus for me is on driving improvements in the future.’ Five of the six girls were abused . while in the care of Oxfordshire County Council’s social services . department. But Miss Simons also said she was not quitting her . £182,000-a-year job as chief executive. She said: ‘My gut feeling is that I am . not going to resign because my determination is that we need to do all . that we can to take action to stamp this out. ‘[We are] incredibly sorry that we . weren’t able to stop this abuse any sooner . . . what we understand now . is much more about the grooming process. 'We didn’t understand that going . back seven or eight years ago. ‘All I can do is apologise if we didn’t listen enough, if we didn’t do enough.’ The mother of one of the victims, only . 14 when the gang began plying her with drink and drugs before . exploiting her for sex, said: ‘Oxford Social Services has failed our . children and someone has to pay for it. ‘They were supposed to be looking . after my child, yet the social workers went home at night knowing that . she was being abused and did nothing. Brothers Anjum Dogar (left) and Akhtar Dogar (right) have been convicted of offences involving underage girls . Zeeshan Ahmed (left) and Kamar Jamil (right) were among those who were convicted today at the Old Bailey . ‘The police are talking about there . being more victims, something like 50 more girls, who they want to come . forward. But how can they expect them to have the courage to come . forward when these six girls have been failed so badly.’ Speaking in New York, the Prime . Minister refused to defend the Chief Constable and county council chief, . saying the authorities would have to ‘respond for themselves in terms . of what happened’. Mr Cameron, an Oxfordshire MP, said: . ‘It really is just appalling, absolutely appalling – it’s shocking what . took place. Everyone’s going to have to ask some very searching . questions about how this was allowed to continue for so long.’ Abuse was carried out at the Nanford Guest House in Oxford. Pictured is a room at the guest house . CCTV issued by Thames Valley Police of Mohammed Karrar, who was convicted of two counts of sexual activity with a child, during an interview with the police . As with similar outrages in Rochdale . and Rotherham, police officers, social workers and staff in residential . homes knew or suspected that children were being used and sold for sex . by large numbers of men. But a catalogue of opportunities to stop the abuse were missed from as early as May 2005. Two of the three care homes where victims of the Oxford gang lived have been closed down. But only one person has been sacked – a . manager at Dell Quay, a privately run care home in Henley-on-Thames . where the council placed girls, was dismissed after refusing to pay a . victim’s taxi fare when she returned after running away. The 14-year-old was driven back to Oxford where she was raped. Steve Heywood, assistant chief . constable of Greater Manchester Police, said yesterday: ‘Our No 1 . priority at the moment is child sexual exploitation. It is now ahead of . gun crime. Expect a lot more convictions.’ Kamar Jamil, 27, who was convicted of rape, facilitating child prostitution and trafficking, during an interview with the police . Prosecutors . have pledged to 're-review' three historic cases involving victims of . the Oxford sex ring after admitting more could have been done to . investigate their claims. The . Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said it would look again at the . decision to take no further action over the allegations of abuse . involving the girls from 2005 to 2006. In one case, the CPS said information was requested from Thames Valley Police but the force did not respond. Baljit . Ubhey, chief crown prosecutor for Thames and Chiltern, said the CPS . would now be more 'proactive' when dealing with sex abuse allegations. She said: 'We want to encourage people who have experienced something similar to have the courage to come forward. 'What . we shouldn't do is as soon as we see a weakness - the girls had taken . drugs or alcohol or they lied about something in the past - that means, . "this case is hopeless and we can't go ahead with it". 'Rather . than be fatalistic and negative, it's about being really positive and . saying, "how can we really get to the truth here?"' Ms Ubhey admitted the CPS should have pursued Thames Valley Police when information was first requested about one of the claims. The further allegations do not involve any of the defendants involved in the Old Bailey trial, she added. 'I think we could have been more proactive,' Ms Ubhey said. 'Of four cases we looked at, in three of those it's arguable we might have been able to do more. 'What . I can't say is that we will change our decision. What I can say is . perhaps we could have taken a more proactive approach in making further . enquiries.' Ms Ubhey confirmed a serious case review would be conducted following the conclusion of the trial.She . said she expected more cases of a similar nature to come to light as . new guidance is issued by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in . the wake of the Jimmy Savile scandal. Ms . Ubhey added: 'I think what these cases have highlighted is that they're . probably not isolated incidents and there's probably more of this . activity going on.' | Sara Thornton, who has been chief constable of Thames Valley Police since 2007, rejects suggestions she should resign .
Joanna .
Simons, chief executive of Oxfordshire County Council whose social .
services failed to help the girls, also refuses to resign .
Seven men found guilty of catalogue of offences involving underage girls .
Verdicts delivered at Old Bailey at the end of a five-month trial .
The seven men have been remanded in custody for sentencing next month .
Girls were so young 'they had just stopped believing in the Easter bunny'
Police identified as many as 22 girls who were 'sold for sex and worse'
Two of three care homes where victims lived have been closed down but only one member of staff was sacked .
It emerged that only one care worker has been sacked in the aftermath of the scandal.
An MP urged courts to impose ‘the .
most severe penalties’ on the gang so the victims receive ‘the justice .
they were denied by the local authorities’.
One of the UK’s largest police forces said tackling child sexual exploitation is now a bigger priority than gun crime. |
094c94e98d9707a805d50e35a896d52ca87f96d5 | We love Halloween season. Sweets. Sweaters. Sipping hot cider (maybe spiked). Halloween can certainly get you in the spirit, and nothing warms our hearts like these healthy Halloween treats that help you stay energized instead of stuck in a sugar coma. Don't worry, we've included all the good stuff: cheese, chocolate and even a cocktail! English Muffin Creatures from Connecticut Working Moms . We know how hard it is to resist buying those holiday-decorated sugar cookies at the grocery store. All those colors, shapes, sprinkles and sugar! That's why we love these treats that use cream cheese and English muffins instead so you can get your "cookie" decor in without the sugar surplus. 5 ways to avoid an unhealthy Halloween . Peanut Butter Pumpkins from The Smart Cookie . Why get your chocolate-peanut butter fix with store-bought candy when you can make this tasty treat? Then again, they are almost too cute to eat. Go for dark chocolate to add extra antioxidants and use peanut butter without added sugar and hydrogenated oils to keep it healthy. Strawberry Ghosts from Muffin Tin Mom . Chocolate-covered strawberries aren't just for Valentine's Day. Turned upside down and dipped in white chocolate, these ghoulish treats are scary easy to make and eat. Use organic strawberries when possible -- the conventional fruit tends to have high levels of pesticides. Sludge Monster Martini from Nom Nom Crunch . It's easy being green with all the fruits and veggies in this monster cocktail. Spiked with vodka and triple sec, this adult treat becomes more thrilling if you add tonic. If you're partying with a black light, your drink will glow in the dark! Move over, kids. Halloween is for grownups . Orange-O-Lanterns from Fork & Beans . Zombie lovers, eat your brains out with this surprisingly healthy Halloween snack. Pop the top on these unassuming jack-o-lanterns to find an edible vegan-carrot brain that is about as close to a trick and treat that you can get. | These Halloween recipes are healthy and fun alternatives to popular treats .
Try chocolate-covered fruit, a veggie cockail, jello brains or peanut butter pumpkins . |
094d0a699eac6459bd0b9199cd315b8043dd04cb | A bride who spent her wedding night in police cells after hurling racist abuse at staff in a luxury hotel has today walked free from court. Mother of four Kirsty Bigland, 30, who was still wearing her white wedding dress, shouted racist language when a card payment was refused as she and her husband Nick tried to check into their hotel room. Staff ushered the newlyweds out of the four star Hilton Hotel in Manchester city centre's Deansgate due to their foul mouthed tirade before Bigland began running at security staff swearing and spitting. Kirsty Bigland (right) leaving Manchester Magistrates Court today, after being given a suspended sentence after admitting hurling racist abuse at hotel staff on her wedding night along with husband Nick (left) Police were called to the Hilton Hotel in Manchester City Centre following the incident, which led to Bigland, pictured still in her wedding dress, spending her wedding night in the cells . Both she and her new husband had to be restrained until police arrived at the £300 a night hotel before the pair were both taken to a nearby police station where they spent the night in neighbouring cells. At Manchester Magistrates Court today, Bigland, from Salford admitted racially aggravated assault upon hotel doorman Mustapha Muhssen and was given a 20 week jail sentence suspended for 12 months. She was also ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work and pay the victim £150 compensation plus £250 prosecution costs. Her husband, 25, who had pleaded guilty to disorderly behaviour at an earlier hearing failed to turn up for sentencing and a warrant was issued for his arrest. At an earlier hearing the court heard how the incident occurred in May this year after the couple married and had their reception in Manchester city centre. After the function they were due to book into the Hilton at 11pm for their wedding night as customers were queuing outside a lift to go to the trendy Cloud 23 bar on the 23rd floor of hotel building. Bigland, and her new husband Nick, had been due to stay at the Hilton after holding their reception at a venue in Manchester city centre . But trouble began when the couple tried to use a friend’s credit card and it was denied. It was then that Bigland hurled racist abuse and the couple had to be restrained by security staff. Today the court was told that the security guard had wanted to drop the assault complaint as it was the Biglands’ wedding night. He said his injuries had been 'very minor' and dismissed the incident as 'name calling, picking out differences in my appearance like calling someone fat'. John Wolfson, defending said: 'She accepts the facts but she can’t recall everything. She had something to drink and she’d had a very happy day, described as "bridal bliss". 'They turned up at the hotel, but her husband had been drinking heavily. 'When she arrived she was wearing her wedding dress. She was very happy, had a case with her with a view of spending the night in the hotel but it was the honeymoon, that never happened. 'Instead she ended up in her wedding dress in a police cell, in separate cells to her husband.' Today the court was told that the security guard had wanted to drop the assault complaint as it was the Biglands’ wedding day . Mr Wolfson spoke of the mix up with bookings and added: 'Mr Bigland at that point got very upset and irate and made it known his views to staff, he became noisy and offensive and abusive. 'Kirsty became upset, she felt utterly humiliated standing in the middle of the hotel with people coming and going, she wanted to disappear.' It was claimed Bigland told her husband she wanted to go and he gave her taxi money and and sat on a wall outside before Mr Bigland was escorted out by security. Mr Wolfson added: 'She didn’t know what had happened inside to cause that. 'She saw him sat on the barrier. He was removed forcefully from that and taken down. 'She was very upset. The police came and she was taken to the police station.' The court heard that Bigland had been 'very upset' by a comment that said she had looked 'cheap'. She was detained in a cell until 7pm the following day. Mr Wolfson explained: 'She has lost an awful lot, vilified in the media, very nasty unpleasant comments made. She has been sorely punished. 'Her marriage is in a precarious situation. He started it. She sought to walk away but became embroiled in it.' But during sentencing district judge Mark Hadfield told Bigland: 'You proceeded to spit into the guard’s face and proceeded to punch him to the chest. 'When he was seen to restrain you, you kicked him. I simply don’t accept you don’t remember using racial language or spitting in his face. 'It seems clear to me that the incident did commence as a result of Mr Bigland’s behaviour and they were forced to deal with him. 'You became involved using particularly racist language and then assaulted him. Those who indulge in racially aggravated behaviour must expect to be punished. 'It’s a very serious offence and a repeated assault on a gentleman - not only a punch but kicking and spitting in his face. 'It occurred in the hotel reception then spilled outside. It was very late at night, you are not willing to concede that you were intoxicated, I expect drink played a part.' | Kirsty Bigland spent wedding night in the cells after hurling racist abuse .
Came after a card payment was refused checking into Manchester Hilton .
Mother of four also began running at security staff spitting and swearing .
Both she and husband Nick had to be restrained until police were called .
Bigland admitted racially aggravated assault at Manchester Magistrates .
But today she escaped jail and was given a 20 week suspended sentence .
Husband Nick failed to turn up for sentencing and a warrant has been issued for his arrest . |
094dfd4ad046444b7bf92e5bae92b599dea5f27a | By . Dan Bloom . PUBLISHED: . 11:33 EST, 15 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 03:48 EST, 16 November 2013 . Cyclists were left baffled after they were given an apparent bike path just four inches wide. The bizarre white line was supposed to mark out a 'shared pavement' between walkers and cyclists in Grimsby, Lincolnshire - but it left even councillors scratching their heads. Residents thought they would have to ride along a four-inch gap between the thick white line and the kerb, a daunting task for even the most experienced cyclist. 'Pointless': How 61-year-old Ray Lawrance, pictured, described the new white line which left just a four-inch gap. But North East Lincolnshire Council said it was a normal way of marking out a shared pavement . Baffling: Cyclists complained after it appeared council workers had painted a path for them four inches wide . Cyclist Ray Lawrance, 61, spotted the white line as he walked his two grandchildren to school. He said: 'As a layman looking at this, I am totally confused. Where is the cycle path, where is the pedestrian path? There's no clear definition which is which. Wheely confusing: The start of the bike path in Great Coates, Grimsby. Cyclists should ride on the left . 'It . is pointless. It does not appear to be the best use of public money. It . is probably to tick boxes to get a bit of central government funding . but it has left pedestrians and cyclists confused.' The line was painted last month on a residential street in the village of Great Coates, on the outskirts of Grimsby, as part of resurfacing work at a busy junction. Labour-controlled North East Lincolnshire Council insisted its intention was to mark out a shared space for cyclists and pedestrians, not to divide the path in two. A spokesman said: 'This is a commonly used marking to show where a cycle . path joins a footpath. Cyclists and pedestrians share the length of path . marked by the white line.' But Labour councillor Cliff Barber was forced to hold his hands up after the issue was raised at a community meeting on October 30. The path had been resurfaced following complaints from the public,' he said. 'It . was a very uneven surface with lots of holes in so they have completely . re-tarmacked it and they have done a good job, but I must admit the . newly painted line does look a bit narrow.' The council insisted the repainting was essential for the pavement, but declined to say whether they will change the original markings. Vic Goose, chairman of the North East Lincolnshire Cycle Forum, said: 'The cycle path has been there for some time and has always been a shared path. 'It is quite likely that the white line is to segregate the cycle path from the road.' The bizarre incident is certainly not the first questionable paint job by council workers. Contractors for Cumbria County Council last month painted the words KEEP CEEAR in huge white letters - before having to apologise and correct it for free. And workmen in Thatcham, Berkshire, were a laughing stock when they refused to let parked cars stop them doing their job - and simply painted double yellow lines between each one. | White line in Grimsby, Lincolnshire, was meant to mark 'shared pavement'
It left just four inches between the line and the edge of the kerb .
Labour council admit it is 'a bit narrow' but insist the line is normal practice .
Baffled cyclist, 61: 'I am totally confused. Where is the cycle path?' |
094f9152c712949ad6c4e26e5c7bd21b5a6d817a | By . James Rush . PUBLISHED: . 05:30 EST, 28 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 12:18 EST, 28 March 2013 . Dragons' Den star Peter Jones has relaunched camera chain Jessops - two months after it was forced from the High Street. Two Jessops stores will open today in London's Oxford Street and Birmingham, with four others opening over the Easter weekend in Manchester, Aberdeen, High Wycombe and St Albans. Up to 30 more Jessops stores are due to re-open in April, as part of a £5 million investment. Scroll down for video . Investment: Dragons' Den star Peter Jones was today opening two Jessops stores in London and Birmingham as part of a £5m relaunch . Open: Peter Jones stands outside the Jessops store in Oxford Street, central London . Relaunch: Staff pose for pictures inside the newly opened Jessops store in Birmingham . Jessops called in administrators PwC in January, leading to the closure of all 187 Jessops stores and the loss of almost 1,500 jobs. Later that month Mr Jones and other investors bought the brand and certain assets. The entrepreneur is the sole owner of the relaunched camera store chain. The company has pledged to create 500 jobs with its relaunch - with the majority going to former Jessops staff who lost their jobs when the chain collapsed. Mr Jones, who appears as an investor on the BBC reality TV series about entrepreneurs, will take the role of chief executive and chairman. He said: 'I believe Jessops is an iconic British brand which can lead the retail resurgence on Britain's high streets, powered by new innovations and world-leading, expert staff. 'Image is everything, and even in the mobile and tablet era, there's no substitute for a quality camera when it comes to taking the perfect picture.' Re-opened: Peter Jones (right) and comedian James Corden (left) pose for photographs in a re-opened branch of the Jessops camera retail chain on Oxford Street in London . Investment: Dragons' Den star Peter Jones was today opening two Jessops stores in London and Birmingham as part of a £5m relaunch . Closure: Jessops called in administrators PwC in January, leading to the closure of all 187 Jessops stores and the loss of almost 1,500 jobs . Mr Jones opened the Oxford Street store today with TV comic James Corden. The . relaunched company is forecasting sales of at least £80 million in its . first year, which it said will give it 15 per cent of the DSLR camera . market in the UK. Jessops also promised greater integration with its . online presence, including an option to collect internet orders at . store. The camera giant was . the first high-profile retail casualty of 2013, after suffering from . online competition and a boom in camera phones in recent years, which . hit demand for digital cameras. Hands-on: The relaunched company is forecasting sales of at least £80 million in its first year . At its appointment, PwC said the company's core market had seen a 'significant decline' in 2012, while forecast profits over Christmas did not materialise, squeezing its funding. Jessops had struggled since 2007, when it underwent a major overhaul with a swathe of store closures. The firm began life in 1935 when Frank Jessop opened his first shop in Leicester. Writing in The Sun today, Mr Jones said while 'so-called experts' say the High Street no future, he believes 'the facts say otherwise'. 'Devastating effect': Staff from the Warrington branch of Jessops plastered their photos in the window of the store in the hope of finding new employment after its closure was announced . Mr Jones said shopper numbers on the High Street were up by 2.7 per cent last month compared to the previous year, according to the British Retail Consortium. He said while the business could have been relaunched online, he knew there was a desire for a 'proper shopping experience'. He said: 'I also think it's time we snapped out of our negativity about the economy, and got behind the great British brands and institutions that can lead the recovery. 'That's why I've declared myself "in" to what I think will be the first step in the revival of our high streets.' He added things were looking up for British shoppers, with Blockbuster also set to re-open in the near future. The High Street has seen some turbulent times in recent years, but the latest development could be a sign of changing fortunes. December 2008: MFI, the furniture retailer, was one of the first major firms to go out of business at the start of the downturn, as retail sales began to fall following a sharp rise in unemploymentWoolworths . January 2009: Woolworths shuttered its 800 stores, bringing home to many the scale of the UK's economic collapse as the country entered recession for the first time . February 2009: Zavvi stopped trading around Christmas - and refused to honour its gift cards, leading to widespread customer anger . In trouble: Electrical giant Comet closed its doors for the last time shortly before Christmas while music chain HMV called in administrators in January . December 2009: Borders was another entertainment behemoth to go under as sale of CDs and DVDs were squeezed by digital downloads and online retailers . October 2012: JJB Sports closed all but 20 of its stores, which were taken over and re-branded by Sports Direct - leading to the death of the JJB brand and 550 employees losing their jobs . December 2012: Comet shut down just before Christmas, leaving nearly 7,000 staff out of work and forcing the taxpayer to pick up a £50million tab related to its bankruptcy, which was blamed on soaring energy prices and a reduction in the number of home buyers . January 2013: Jessops was closed by administrator PwC earlier this month after years of struggling with online competition as customers turned away from traditional photography . January 2013: HMV, which has 239 shops and 4,500 staff, announced that it was calling in administrators. The company came under fire for not honouring gift vouchers which they had been selling all over Christmas. January 2013: Blockbusters, called in administrator Deloitte who announced that 129 stores across the UK would close and 760 employees would lose their jobs. February 2013: Fashion chain Republic collapses into administration putting 2,500 jobs at risk . March 2013: Blockbuster is sold to restrucuring specialists Gordon Brothers Europe for an undisclosed sum, saving 2,00 jobs and 264 UK stores . March 2013: Peter Jones announces a £5m investment to relaunch camera chain Jessops . | Two stores opening today in London and Birmingham as part of relaunch .
A further four to open over the weekend and up to 30 more next month .
Peter Jones will take role of chief executive and chairman at the store .
He says the brand can 'lead the retail resurgence' of High Street . |
095060a549b7b78bb2c3610a31fd443d89f907a6 | (CNN) -- The five snowboarders who died in a Colorado avalanche this weekend were all in their 30s and from Colorado, the sheriff's office said Sunday. They were found dead Saturday after being buried in snow on a high mountain pass in Colorado's White River National Forest, officials from the Clear Creek County Sheriff's Office said. It was the state's deadliest avalanche accident since 1962, the Colorado Alpine Rescue Team said. A sixth member of the backcountry snowboarder group survived by digging himself out of the snow. He hiked a few hundred yards to a road and flagged down workers with the Colorado Department of Transportation, Sheriff Don Kruger said. Killed in the avalanche were Christopher Peters, 32, from Lakewood; Joseph Timlin, 32, from Gypsum; Ryan Novack, 33, from Boulder; Ian Lamphere, 36, from Crested Butte; and Rick Gaukel, 33, from Estes Park. The avalanche happened at Loveland Pass, about 50 miles west of Denver at an elevation of 11,990 feet, officials said. It is just east of the popular ski resorts of Breckenridge and Vail. The group set off in the morning and triggered the avalanche around 1 p.m. (3 p.m. ET), the sheriff's office said. All of them were wearing avalanche beacons and proper equipment, the office said. Woman killed, man missing in Washington state avalanches . Skier dies in avalanche in Canada's Glacier National Park . CNN's Pierre Meilhan and Nick Valencia contributed to this report. | The snowboarders were all in their 30s and from Colorado .
This was Colorado's deadliest avalanche accident since 1962 .
One member of a snowboarding group was able to free himself from the snow .
Loveland Pass is located about 50 miles west of Denver . |
09506d03f6eb639209a867336af9afa5e93e6d05 | National Football League owners unanimously endorsed what they called a 'revised and strengthened' Personal Conduct Policy in the wake of several domestic violence incidents involving players. 'With considerable assistance from the many people and organizations we consulted, NFL ownership has endorsed an enhanced policy that is significantly more robust, thorough, and formal,' NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said. The NFL has come under fire over the last six months as it struggled with a personal conduct policy widely seen as too lenient. With big-money NFL sponsors watching closely, Goodell embarked on a mission to strengthen the policy. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has endured a turbulent year off the field with a raft of unsavoury incidents . High-profile players Adrian Peterson, Ray Rice and Greg Hardy have been convicted of domestic abuse over the past few months and the NFL has stumbled in some of its attempts to punish the players. A special counsel for investigations and conduct will 'decide the discipline for violations' of the new policy, said Goodell, who will still hear appeals but may appoint an independent panel to assist him. 'The policy is comprehensive. It is strong. It is tough. And it is better for everyone associated with the NFL,' Goodell said. The players union was not happy it was not part of the process in formulating a new policy. 'Our union has not been offered the professional courtesy of seeing the NFL's new personal conduct policy before it hit the presses,' the NFL Players Union said in a statement. 'Their unilateral decision and conduct today is the only thing that has been consistent over the past few months.' Among the changes are a 'more extensive' list of prohibited conduct and NFL-funded counseling and services for victims, families, and violators, Goodell said. Ray Rice (right) is free to play in the NFL after knocking out his then-fiancee Janay (centre) in a casino lift . The new policy was unveiled at a regularly scheduled owners meeting in Irving, Texas, outside Dallas. Arizona Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill will serve as chairman of a nine-owner committee that will oversee the new policy, Goodell said. Two former players with ownership stakes also will serve on the committee, Warrick Dunn of the Atlanta Falcons and the Pittsburgh Steelers' John Stallworth. After the criticism erupted over the summer, Goodell retained four women, including Lisa Friel, the former head of the Manhattan district attorney's sex-crimes unit, to shape the NFL's policies relating to domestic violence and sexual assault. 'We now have a layered evaluation process to take into account a diversity of expert views,' Goodell said. Adrian Peterson disciplined his four-year-old son with a switch and is currently banned by the NFL . | NFL owners unanimously approved a revised personal conduct policy .
High-profile players Adrian Peterson, Ray Rice and Greg Hardy have been convicted of domestic abuse over the past few months .
'The policy is comprehensive. It is strong. It is tough. And it is better for everyone associated with the NFL,' said commissioner Roger Goodell . |
095163717dd7a8d5c62fd54eb18e5dfc50874266 | Zesty: Old Bay seasoning will be added to the Filet-O-Fish's tartar sauce from Monday . McDonald's are banking on beloved Old Bay seasoning to bring new life to one of their staple sandwiches. From Monday, the popular Maryland seafood spice - which has a Sriracha sauce-like following, particularly in the Mid-Atlantic area - will be added to the tartar sauce of the fast good giant's Filet-O-Fish. The idea was developed by McDonald's franchisee in - where else? - Baltimore. Store owner Mark Furr said he came up with the idea because so many customers added Old Bay to the fried fish burger, and so he pitched the idea to his head office. 'We know that Old Bay is as popular as salt and pepper on our tables here in Baltimore,' Mr Furr told The Baltimore Sun. 'McDonald's is extremely excited to be able to deliver a true, local taste to our customers.' Nearly 700 McDonald’s locations in Maryland, Virginia, Washington, D.C., Delaware and West Virginia will offer Filet-O-Fish with Old Bay tartar sauce. The limited-time-only offering is an official partnership between McDonald's and McCormick and Co., the Maryland company that makes Old Bay. The seasoning was named after the Old Bay Line, a passenger ship line that plied the waters of the Chesapeake Bay from Baltimore to Norfolk, Virginia, in the early 1900s. It began as a spicing for bushels of blue crab, with the main ingredients of mustard, paprika, celery salt and bay leaves. Old favorites: The Filet-O-Fish has been a McDonald's staple since 1962, while Old Bay seasoning has a cult following in the Mid-Atlantic, where it is added to almost everything . However, for many, it has become a necessity that can be sprinkled on just about anything, from popcorn and potato salad to even beer and doughnuts. The Old Bay Filet-O-Fish will hit participating stores on February 16. Of course, locals seem to be all for it. 'It makes perfect sense to spice up the Filet-O-Fish with Old Bay, especially around the Mid-Atlantic,' Chesapeake business owner John Shields told Baltimore Magazine. 'McDonalds tried going locavore a number of years ago on the Eastern Shore with the addition of a crab-cake sandwich. 'Not so good, and it didn't last long. But Old Bay and Filet-O-Fish? How could it go wrong?' The Filet-O-Fish has been around since 1962 and was created by Lou Groen, a McDonald's owner in Cincinnati, Ohio. | Old Bay seasoning, a Maryland institution, will be added to the tartar sauce .
New sandwich will be launched Monday in 700 stores .
Only available in Maryland, Virginia, Washington, D.C., Delaware and West Virginia . |
0951653845e942bc843d84752446a7abf3a1c0ee | London, England (CNN) -- A secret document that appears to show that Iran was working on building nuclear weapons as recently as 2007 is "alarming" and "part of a body of evidence backing up deep concerns over Iran's nuclear program," a Western diplomatic source with knowledge of the papers told CNN on Monday. The International Atomic Energy Agency, the United Nations nuclear watchdog, has a copy of the secret papers, which were also obtained by the Times of London, the source said. IAEA officials confirm they are investigating the document but said they have not formally asked Iran for more information about it. A top international nuclear expert said it seemed to point to Iranian efforts to build a bomb. "The only realistic use of this is in a nuclear weapon," said David Albright, the president of the Institute for Science and International Security. "It shows that either Iran is developing the capability [to build nuclear weapons] or it is moving to implement a bomb program -- and either one is bad," said Albright, who reviewed the document for the Times before the newspaper published its report Sunday. But Albright warned that the document is edited and has no date on it. The source who gave it to the Times said it was from 2007, but neither the Times nor the ISIS was able to date it definitively, Albright said. In Iran, Foreign Ministry spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast said the Times' "claim that Iran is working on the final and important component of a nuclear bomb is false and not worth paying any attention to," the semi-official Fars news agency reported. "This type of statement is made in the media to put political and psychological pressure [on Iran] by the officials of various countries," Mehmanparast said, according to the Fars report. United States intelligence concluded in 2007 that Iran had suspended work on its nuclear weapons program in 2003. In the National Intelligence Estimate released in December 2007, the U.S. intelligence community dramatically reversed course from its 2005 evaluation. It expressed "high confidence" in 2005 that the Islamic Republic was working toward nuclear weapons, then two years later said -- also with "high confidence" -- that Iran had stopped its weapons program in 2003. Iran denies seeking to build nuclear weapons, saying its nuclear program is to produce civilian energy and medical research. But it is under intense pressure from the international community, with Britain and France saying last week they would push for stronger U.N. sanctions on Tehran. U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton wouldn't comment on the secret document Monday, but told reporters that concerns about Iran's nuclear program "have been heightened already" in recent months after revelations of a once-secret nuclear enrichment facility near the Iranian city of Qom, and Iran's Cabinet authorizing the construction of at least 10 new nuclear production facilities. She said the Obama administration has taken a "dual-track" approach to Iran, including the offer of engagement and taking part in nuclear talks. "We've been at the table. But I don't think anyone can doubt that our outreach has produced very little in terms of any kind of positive response from the Iranians," Clinton said, adding that the second approach -- the international pressure -- is key to pushing Iranian officials to change "their actions and decisions concerning the nuclear program." Mehrdad Khonsari, a former Iranian diplomat, says the revelation about the document "means, essentially ... that the Iranians have been lying to everybody" when they said they were not seeking to build nuclear weapons. Khonsari said it was no accident that this document appeared when it did. "The fact that the document comes out at this time makes it very difficult for Russia and China not to go along with more sanctions," he said. It would also make it easier for "Israel to go ahead with a unilateral strike" on Iran's nuclear facilities, he added. "The agenda will change as a result of the publication of this document unless the document is proven to be false by the Iranian authorities," said Khonsari, who is now a senior research consultant at the Center for Arab and Iranian Studies. Khonsari -- who left Iran after the Islamic Revolution in 1979 -- has not seen the original document but said the material published by the Times "is what an authentic document would look like." "It places pressure on the Iranian government to try to use what time remains to get out of this situation," he said. According to a report dated Monday on the Web site of Albright's group, a neutron initiator is a critical component of a nuclear weapon. The ISIS report said the device "would most likely be placed at the center of a fission bomb made from weapon-grade uranium" and "works by the high explosives compressing the nuclear core and the initiator" to produce a "spurt of neutrons" as a result of fusion. "The neutrons flood the core of weapon-grade uranium and initiate the chain reaction," the ISIS report said. Albright said the document described efforts to "research and test a neutron initiator," a nuclear component for which he could not see "any civil use." "They appear to be doing the right things," he said. "But you don't know how it fits into a nuclear weapons program." He also said the public had failed to understand a key part of the debate about Iran's nuclear program. "It's not whether there is something or nothing, but whether there is a capabilities focus or an actual decision to build nuclear weapons," he said. "It's not like an on-off switch, it's like a dimmer control." CNN Senior International Correspondent Matthew Chance and Richard Allen Greene contributed to this report. | NEW: Iran calls claim of work on nuclear bomb part "false and not worth paying any attention to"
Papers reinforce "deep concerns over Iran's nuclear program," source says .
It says U.N. nuke watchdog has a copy of papers, which Times of London also obtained .
IAEA says it's investigating document, hasn't formally asked Iran for more information about it . |
09519bef94d0ce563b88a850df0a9770a8ebf20e | (CNN) -- I first met Alvaro Palacios in 1989 when I was freelancing for the Wine Spectator magazine. That job required me to visit dozens of wineries, and I was even obligated to taste wine. Palacios, a fifth-generation Spanish vintner, understood these hardships. As he drove me around his family's operation in the Rioja winemaking appellation back then, he kept talking about the search for special vineyards in the mountains of northeastern Catalonia. He insisted that an old, forgotten region there could produce the next great Spanish wines. Since then, Palacios has gained international fame for two red wines, Finca Dofi, which costs about $100 a bottle, and L'Ermita, which costs about $1,000 a bottle. He makes them in that appellation he was searching for, called Priorat, a two hour-drive southwest of Barcelona. I recently decided it was time to for CNN to pay a visit. Read more: Driverless cars: From Hollywood to real world . We arrived to the hillside village of Gratallops at dusk and checked into what could be described as a wine-obsessed hotel, Cal Llop, run by a wine-loving couple who left Madrid years ago to pursue a new life. My room looked out at the L'Ermita vineyard and my cameraman's room overlooked Alvaro Palacios's winery. The dinner was all about wine, although I recall that the food also was good. Read more: Bumpy road ahead for London cabbie business . The next morning, we were deep inside Palacios' wine cellar, with hundreds of French oak barrels. In just one extra large cask, the entire 2012 vintage of L'Ermita was aging. "The real queen, absolutely," Palacios said, gently stroking the cask. Upstairs, we were soon tasting it. "See the perfume. It's so delicate," Palacios explained, large wine glass in hand. Delicate but very distinguished, as is the price, about a thousand dollars a bottle. "Who matters what the price is?" Palacios said. Read more: Scottish pride restored by world porridge champion . "Is this going to solve Spain's economic crisis, this wine?" I asked. "Well, that would be a nice help," he said. Palacios looked to markets abroad 20 years ago, long before the crisis struck at home. And he said others in Spain need to do the same. "I tell my friends to tell his sons, his relatives, that they must get internationalized because the future is so global, everything happens so fast," Palacios said. Palacios has built a $16 million business in three Spanish wine regions: Rioja, where his family started; Priorat, where he made his own mark, and more recently in Bierzo, in northwest Spain, an old vineyard region that has also gained new fame, working closely with his nephew. Read more: Skyscanner brings a pinch of Silicon Valley to Scotland . Most of Palacios' wine from these three appellations costs $18 a bottle or less. But that's the point -- he's producing the marquee vintages and the wine that's accessible to regular consumers. "You have to make the best product possible because the consumer is very smart, very clever," he said. "So, great quality and then export. You have to also sell in your country. It's both things, together." He isn't afraid to take an unusual path. He uses mules to plow prime vineyards on hills too steep for tractors. And he doesn't have a website for the business. Read more: Spain turning back the clock on siestas . "I don't need a website to drink the best wines of the world," he said. "I know where they are, or I just ask." And Palacios thinks there is a silver lining in Spain's long economic crisis. "I think that this crisis is making young generations, new generations, understand the that the concept is to guarantee a market in the international trade," he said. After all these years, catching up with Palacios was comforting confirmation that he and I are not aging too badly, although his wines are surely doing better at that. | Alvaro Palacios gained international fame for two red wines, Finca Dofi, about $100 a bottle, and L'Ermita, about $1,000 a bottle .
Palacios has built a $16-million business in three Spanish wine regions Rioja, Priorat and Bierzo .
Most of Palacios' wine from these three appellations costs $18 a bottle or less . |
09525cffeacdba954a262af333c1ef58e5496c8a | Manchester United are keen to continue their recent resurgence by picking up all three points against West Brom according to Spanish playmaker Juan Mata. United won their last two games before the international break to climb the Premier League table after a difficult start to life under Louis van Gaal. And Mata believes they can continue that form, despite the trip to The Hawthorns presenting a 'tough atmosphere' on Monday night. Juan Mata congratulates compatriot David de Gea after the keeper made some brilliant saves at Everton . The Spanish midfielder wants United to continue their momentum from Everton and West Ham on Monday . Radamel Falcao scored his first United goal before the international break and will be a threat . 'It's always a difficult stadium to go to with a tough atmosphere,' Mata told MUTV. 'After the international break and two weeks without a game we want another three points after two wins in a row. 'We'll try our best to come back to Manchester with all three. We only have to think about this game. The manager is only speaking about West Brom and that's the same for us.' United have recovered from a difficult start, during which they lost 5-3 to newly promoted Leicester City . Mata praised his side's spirit to beat West Ham despite being down to 10 men after Wayne Rooney saw red . United beat West Ham and Everton, both by two goals to one, before the international break, to bounce back from a 5-3 defeat at Leicester. And Mata believes they can continue that momentum in another difficult game. Mata (centre) trains with his United team-mates ahead of Monday night's 'tought' game at The Hawthorns . United's expensively assembled front-line is beginning to show its quality despite defensive frailties . 'It wasn't easy to win both games, first with 10 players (against West Ham) and second with Everton attacking and attacking, but we did it and got six points.' 'Hopefully we will get three more points in the next game but it will be tough at West Brom.' | Louis van Gaal's side have won last two games in a row .
Juan Mata says Manchester United are focussed after international break .
But Mata admits it won't be easy against West Brom . |
0952e50eb45f29d7c9ace8380b635fad3ae1db90 | Hollywood actor Pierce Brosnan has started renovations on his Malibu home after a dramatic blaze ripped through it, last week. The star's California mansion caught fire last Wednesday evening, causing an estimated $1 million worth of devastating damage. A clean-up crew were seen arriving at the property on Thursday to embark on damage restoration. Scroll down for video . Repairing the damage: Hollywood actor Pierce Brosnan has started renovations on his Malibu home after a dramatic blaze ripped through it, last week . Wearing a safety hard-hat, a worker could be seen using a wheelbarrow to transport charred goods onto a lorry for clearance. And, although much of the content was unidentifiable, there was certainly a considerable amount of it. In fact, he could be seen filling the vehicle several times which deftly illustrates the scale of the destruction. Clear-out: A clean-up crew were seen arriving at the property on Thursday to embark on damage restoration . KTLA reports that as many as 20 firefighters responded to the first-alarm residential fire and put the flames out within 30 minutes. As a result, only the garage and a nearby guest bedroom sustained any damage. Brosnan, who was home with wife Keely Shaye Smith and two of his sons at the time, Dylan and Paris, could be seen distraught as he spoke on his phone while firefighters put out the blaze. TMZ report that Brosnan said in his 911 call 'I've got to go now in case I get blown up'. Investigators stayed on the scene at the 13,000 square-foot residence for hours after the blaze was put out as they tried to determine what the cause was. One neighbor, Andy Stern, claimed; 'Their last house totally burned down several years ago, then it took them several years to build this house.' Concerned: Pierce Brosnan was spotted outside his home in Malibu on Wednesday evening after the garage caught fire . Safe: Pierce Brosnan's Malibu home caught fire on Wednesday evening, but the actor remains unharmed. He was seen outside with police officers during the blaze . Los Angeles County firefighters responded to emergency calls to put out the fire at the Hollywood star's property, estimated to be worth $18.5 million, at 9:48pm local time on 11 February. It took around 50 firefighters to distinguish the blaze in around 35 minutes. Brosnan, who is best known for his role as James Bond in movies including Die Another Day and GoldenEye, was pictured outside of his mansion at the time of the fire. An additional clip has surfaced online, taken by a supposed nearby witness from Malibu, showing the fire going at full strength. Taking action: Los Angeles County firefighters were called out to put out the fire at the Hollywood star's property at 9:48pm local time . Putting out the blaze: Around 50 firefighters were able to distinguish the fire in 35 minutes, according to reports . To the rescue: Luckily for the Brosnan family the emergency services responded promptly to get the blaze under control . Aftermath: The Malibu property was taped off by the emergency services the following day . Damage: Fire ravaged remains from the blaze could clearly be seen on the mansion's driveway . NBC journalist Kenny Holmes posted pictures on Twitter of the actor outside with firefighters during the incident. He added: 'Heavy smoke & fire last night from the garage of Pierce Brosnan's Malibu home. No injuries. Damage to garage/bedroom.' MailOnline has contacted a representative for Pierce Brosnan and is awaiting comment. The large home is said to be one of Malibu's finest beach-front properties, with neighbours including Danny DeVito and Dustin Hoffman. Most recently, the 61-year-old actor appeared in a Super Bowl commercial. The new Kia Sorento Super Bowl advert - entitled The Perfect Getaway - sees Pierce attempt to go back to his 007 roots. Unharmed: The 61-year-old actor was safely away from the fire when it ripped through his garage . He finds himself disappointed as his agent pitches him a movie role that lacks his flair for action and adventure. The clip sees the actor sitting in a luxurious office waiting to line up his next globe trotting onscreen adventure, only to have his hopes dashed. Soon every expectation is dashed for the star, as he learns he will not be contending with snipers and missile launchers but instead will have to settle for pleasant encounters with natural beauty and wildlife while driving a modest Kia Sorento. The vehicle his agent is pitching - a fuel efficient family SUV - is a far cry from the zippy super cars he is used to in his various action movie roles. But just when he thinks all hope is lost he asks if the scene he is being pitched ends in an explosion... which it doesn't. He does however get some fireworks in the form of a lovely woman waiting for him in a snowy cabin his modest car arrives to at the end of the pitch. The Irish actor has been married to wife Keely Shaye Smith for over ten years; the couple have two teenage sons together, Dylan and Paris. Family home: The actor lives in the Malibu mansion with his wife Keely, and their sons Dylan (pictured) and Paris . | A fire that ripped through the $18.5 million Malibu mansion of actor Pierce Brosnan last Wednesday has caused $1million in damage .
The former James Bond star and his family were home when the blaze erupted in the property's garage .
Some sources are now saying an appliance caused the flames .
Clean-up crew seen arriving at the damaged property on Thursday . |
095363457b43cedaf862aa23915a9858fb6d004a | He looked delighted when he was presented with a traditional black and white sombrero vueltiao hat during a visit to an organic fair on Wednesday. Now, Prince Charles has two after he was given another while inspecting the treasure at the Museo del Oro Zenu in Cartagena. The Prince, clearly delighted with his duplicate gift, swiftly donned the hat and encouraged the Duchess of Cornwall to do the same with hers - much to the delight of local well-wishers. Sombrero vueltiao hats are made from cane fibre and are a symbol of Colombia, as well as the northern Caribbean region in which the city of Cartagena is located. Scroll down for video . Looking good: Prince Charles was given his second sombrero vueltiao hat of the week during a visit to a museum in Cartagena . Suits you sir: Charles looked delighted with his second hat - and the Duchess of Cornwall appeared to like hers too . Culture: The couple were at the Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) in Cartagena with First Lady María Clemencia Rodríguez de Santos . Popular: Charles got his first hat while visiting an organic food fair at the British Ambassador's residence in Bogota on Tuesday . Originally worn by peasants, the hats have become an enormously popular fashion accessory and are loved by everyone from cowboys to presidents, and now, princes. Charles and Camilla are on the last leg of an eventful four-day visit to the South American country, which has seen the Prince speak of his anguish following the death of his uncle, Lord Mountbatten, as well as a passionate intervention from the Duchess on the subject of sexual violence. This morning, however, most of the drama came from a flamboyantly-dressed dancer who met the couple outside the museum, although the impressive impressive collection of fabulous gold treasures dating from the mediaeval period came a close second. A huge crowd of people, many of whom carried Union flags, had gathered outside the museum to see the couple arrive, with Prince Charles taking the opportunity to share a joke with some of the locals during a walkabout. He also tried his hand at playing the drum and appeared to be enjoying himself, even if those listening were less than enamoured with his musical talents. Following the visit to the museum, the couple continued on to the Naval Academy, where they got an insight into the country's infamous drug problem courtesy of a haul of submarines confiscated from drug gangs and now displayed outside the school. Not sure: At first, Camilla looked a little wary about trying on her black and white sombrero vueltiao hat . This is how you do it: An obliging local man then showed her how to put on and wear the hat . What do you think: The pair then looked to the Prince of Wales to see what he thought of the Duchess' new look . Success! Clearly delighted with Charles' verdict, Camilla beamed for the cameras as María Clemencia Rodríguez de Santos looked on . Afterwards, Charles and Camilla will continue on to a war memorial dedicated to the British soldiers who died during an attempt to take the city's Fort of San Felipe in 1741 before attending the Health of the Oceans conference where the Prince will make a speech. The event, which will also see a speech from Colombia's President Santos, has been organised by the Presidential Co-operation Agency and the Prince's International Sustainability Unit, and will promote sustainability in the development of marine economies. Finally, the couple will wave goodbye to Colombia during a sunset ceremony on board HMS Argyll, a Type 23 'Duke' class frigate, which is currently moored in Cartagena. The tour of Colombia began on Tuesday with a rainy welcome on the tarmac at Bogota airport ahead of a formal welcome - which included taking a salute from a guard of honour - the following day. After an encounter with ballet dancer Fernando Montaño during the state dinner that evening, the royal couple then went on to spend yesterday focusing on the real theme of the tour - promoting peace and combating sexual violence. New talent: The couple were also presented with a traditional drum, which Prince Charles couldn't resist trying out . Not so good: The Prince of Wales burst into laughter following his attempt to play the drum - along with Camilla and Cartagena locals . All smiles: The couple appeared to enjoy their visit to the museum, during which they were shown its collection of gold treasure . Charles also spoke movingly about the loss of his great-uncle Lord Mountbatten, when he visited Bogota's Centre for Peace, Memory and Reconciliation which commemorates those killed and displaced during five decades of violence in the fight against guerillas and drug cartels. In a speech about how he had 'experienced the intense despair caused by the consequences of violence' and stress, he added: 'Many of you will probably not know that my own much-loved great-uncle, Lord Mountbatten, and members of his family ... were murdered in Northern Ireland, just over 30 years ago. 'So I feel I do understand something of the bewildering and soul-destroying anguish that so many of you have had to endure.' Charles was extremely close to his uncle, who died in a terrorist bombing in August 1979. Indeed he viewed the Queen’s second cousin and former Viceroy of India as a second father and mentor. Mountbatten, 79, was assassinated by the Provisional IRA, who planted a bomb in his boat in Co Sligo, in the Irish Republic, during a family fishing trip. One of his twin grandsons, Nicholas Knatchbull, 14, lost his life, along with a local boat boy, 15-year-old Paul Maxwell. Another passenger on the boat, the Dowager Lady Brabourne, 82, died in hospital the day after the attack. Big arrival: The couple arrived in Cartagena, on Colombia's Caribbean coastline, after spending three days in Bogota . Colourful: The couple were met by a flamboyantly dressed traditional dancer outside the Museo del Oro Zenu . Wonderful: Charles and Camilla looked on in delight as the dancer twirled her multicoloured skirts during the dance . Magical: This is the second time the couple have encountered Colombia's flamboyant Caribbean dancers, the first time earlier this week . The only person convicted for the murders, Thomas McMahon, an experienced IRA bomb-maker, was released from jail under the Good Friday peace agreement after serving 18 years in jail. A second man was acquitted. Colombia itself is only just emerging from the longest running civil war in the world which began in 1956 and has so far claimed an estimated 250,000 lives, while displacing more than five million people. Rape and other forms of sexual violence are also widespread, with one woman raped every 15 minutes according to government estimates. The Duchess, who met with a group of brave rape victims, told MailOnline of her admiration for their courage and vowed to speak out and bring the issue of sexual violence 'into the light'. 'I was humbled by the courage of the Colombian women I met today,' she added, 'who had been raped like so many others, in horrendous circumstances, and I salute their determination to bring rape and sexual abuse out of the shadows into the light.' Later, the royal couple went their separate ways with Camilla staying in Bogota and Prince Charles travelling to La Macarena to see Cano Cristales - a river that has been dubbed the liquid rainbow thanks to its propensity for changing colour. Good work: After the dance, the couple congratulated the dancer before meeting a group of excited locals . Nice to meet you: Even more excited was the crowd of locals who had waited outside the museum to see the royal couple . Entertaining: Prince Charles, who was on jolly form, shared a joke with one delighted-looking lady . All together now: The royal couple and Colombia's First Lady also stopped for a glamorous group photo with a group of dancers . The impressive sight is the result of algae on the riverbed changing its colour at different times of the year, from green and yellow to blue and black and, famously, red. Cano Cristales, south of the capital Bogota and once part of a FARC rebel controlled area, is close to the town of La Macarena and its residents and other groups are attempting to develop a sustainable tourism programme so local people benefit from foreign visitors and the environment is protected. Julia Miranda, director of Colombia's national park service, hosted Charles' visit to the natural wonder and said, after the royal had left, that the visit had been 'marvellous', adding: 'The red colour of the waters was very intense. 'He was really happy to be here and he asked many questions and seemed really interested in the geography of the area.' Charles was also joined during his visit by Colombia's President Juan Manuel Santos who has been instrumental in helping to preserve Colombia's Amazon region. He joked to Charles' entourage that the picturesque spot was known as the FARC country club where a guerrilla general would bring his partner and they would swim in the waters. Before leaving the region Charles visited the quiet settlement and toured a local church built by guerrilla fighters which has a mural painted above the altar showing Jesus with his 12 disciples, who are depicted as Colombian peasants. During the visit, the Prince chatted to members of the local community and looked utterly delighted when one excited little schoolgirl planted a kiss on his cheek. Touching: In La Macarena yesterday, Prince Charles found himself on the receiving end of a kiss from one excited little schoolgirl . Striking: Charles also visited Cano Cristales, a river dubbed 'the liquid rainbow' thanks to its propensity to change colour . Emotional: Charles spoke of his anguish at the loss of his uncle Lord Mountbatten during a speech in Bogota yesterday . Beautiful: Camilla, who was dressed in a pistachio ensemble, spent yesterday afternoon at the Quinta Bolivar museum in Bogota . Important work: The Duchess, who met rape survivors yesterday morning, told MailOnline that she was left 'humbled' by the experience . | The royal couple are in Cartagena where they were met by a colourful dancer outside the Museo del Oro Zenu .
Charles was given a second cowboy hat - having already picked one up earlier in the week - while Camilla got her first .
The couple also enjoyed a walkabout among the huge Union flag waving crowd of people waiting to meet them .
Yesterday, Prince Charles travelled to La Macarena where he was given a kiss by an excited local schoolgirl .
Meanwhile, Camilla spent the afternoon meeting victims of sexual violence before touring a Bogota museum .
The tour of Colombia ends tonight with a ceremony on board Royal Navy frigate, HMS Argyll, in Cartagena harbour . |
0955357a524a13fd581e11250c027954bd5b8cc3 | By . Rob Cooper . PUBLISHED: . 11:12 EST, 10 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 13:12 EST, 10 December 2013 . After dramatically admitting snorting cocaine and cannabis, Nigella Lawson tried to put her court ordeal behind her by going out for dinner last night with Sir Salman Rushdie. The TV cook, 53, was seen dining with the 66-year-old Satanic Verses author in a £70-a-head Indian restaurant in Mayfair, central London, last night. Miss Lawson confessed in court last week to taking drugs after being subjected to 'intimate terrorism' by her ex-husband Charles Saatchi. Evening out: Nigella Lawson is seen out last night with Satanic Verses author Salman Rushdie in Mayfair, central London, as she tries to put her crown court ordeal behind her . Close friends: Sir Salman flagged down a taxi for him and Nigella Lawson outside the restaurant in central London last night and they both got in . Hailing a cab: Miss Lawson last week admitted snorting cocaine and smoking cannabis as she gave evidence to Isleworth Crown Court . Taxi! Sir Salman hails the cab in central London after he dined with Nigella at the £70-a-head Gymkhana Indian restaurant . During two harrowing days giving evidence at Isleworth Crown Court, the mother-of-two protested 'I have been put on trial here' as she was repeatedly questioned about taking cocaine. She was giving evidence against her former personal assistants Elisabetta and Francesca Grillo who are accused of carrying out a £685,000 credit card fraud. But after being released from the witness stand by Judge Robin Johnson last Thursday evening, Miss Lawson has tried to put her crown court ordeal behind her. She was seen eating at Gymkhana Indian restaurant, in Mayfair, with Sir Salman, just half a mile away from Scott's restaurant where she was infamously photographed being 'throttled' by her ex-husband earlier this year. 'Heart-break': Charles Saatchi, seen out today holding a Boots bag and a copy of Private Eye magazine, told a court that he still 'adores' ex-wife Nigella Lawson . Miss Lawson and Sir Salman have been friends since the 1990s when she was married to her first husband John Diamond. Mr Saatchi - who told the court he still 'adores' Nigella - was today seen out in central London buying a copy of Private Eye magazine. While giving evidence in court Miss Lawson admitted snorting cocaine six times with Mr Diamond while he was terminally ill, starting in 1999. She also admitted taking the drug once while married to Charles Saatchi as well as smoking cannabis. However, she denied being an addict. Italian sisters Francesca and Elisabetta Grillo deny the credit card fraud and the case against them continues. Friendship: Miss Lawson and Sir Salman Rushdie have been close friends since the 1990s. They dined out together last night . Restaurant: Miss Lawson and Sir Salman Rushdie dined together last night at Gymkhana Indian restaurant in Mayfair . Night out: Charles Saatchi and Trinny Woodall are seen out together in central London as his two former PAs Elisabetta and Francesca Grillo stand trial accused of credit card fraud . Divorce: Nigella Lawson and Charles Saatchi, pictured together last year, divorced this summer after being married for 10 years . Sorry we are unable to accept comments for legal reasons. | Nigella and Sir Salman Rushdie were out last night in Mayfair, central London .
Miss Lawson and the 66-year-old author are long-term friends .
The TV cook admitted snorting cocaine and taking cannabis as she gave evidence against two of her former employees last week .
Charles Saatchi was seen buying Private Eye magazine today . |
09553e8033d4086d5519835e9a5619d92e5b2f53 | Former glamour model Peta Todd was left disappointed but unhurt after crashing on the first competitive day of the 2014 World Rally Championship season finale in Wales. Todd, married to Tour de France superstar Mark Cavendish, teamed up with Tony Jardine, the Sky Sports F1 pundit, to take part in the Wales Rally GB. However, after coming through the opening stages in treacherous conditions the Help for Heroes patron's Mitsubishi Evo IX collided with a log pile on the inside of a right corner, collapsing the front right wheel and effectively ending the Prospeed team's race. VIDEO Scroll down for A look at the very best of model and driver Peta Todd on Instagram . Peta Todd posted this picture to Twitter of her looking unhappy following her accident . Todd partnered Sky F1 pundit Tony Jardine to race in the Wales Rally GB . The pair were involved in an accident after their car collided with a log pile but neither was injured . The Prospeed team hope to have the car's front end repaired in time to race on Saturday . Fortunately, neither Todd or Jardine were injured in the incident. The car suffered major damage to the front right corner as well as a smashed front windscreen, and after the fans helped to move the car to safety from the middle of the track, they were towed off the stage. Jardine stressed that the accident was not his partner's fault but had come from his own error. 'It was totally my fault. The stage was drying out and I was trying to go quicker. I took a downhill corner in fifth gear and lost the back of the car. As a result we swung into the logs, which cut into the front of the chassis. But the main thing of course is that Peta and I were unharmed, and the marshals did a fantastic job of getting us and the car to safety. 'It won't be easy, but hopefully the ProSpeed guys can get us back out on stage tomorrow.' Todd tied the knot with Mark Cavendish, pictured together at the BBC Sports Personalty of the Year Awards, in 2012 . The car's problems were not diagnosed as terminal, meaning a race against time to replace and rebuild the front end before it can be re-entered tomorrow. Todd was clearly very disappointed after the crash, although she is hopeful that she can get back in contention. 'We're both gutted but the most important thing is that neither of us is injured. Tony took the corner a little tight and clipped a log pile which flung the back end out but he did amazingly well to control the car and prevent us from going in to a huge ditch the other side. 'The damage meant that Tony couldn't open his door and had to climb out of my side. Initially I must admit I thought that was the end of our entire rally, but thankfully the team are hard at work and positive that we will be competing tomorrow. 'We were both a bit shaken up, but if the car's fixed I want to go out again tomorrow.' Jardine, who competed with Amy Williams last year, and Todd will race at the World Rally Championship finale . Former glamour model Todd, 23, 'cannot wait to tackle' the Welsh event which starts on Thursday . | Peta Todd and Tony Jardine were uninjured after crash at Wales Rally GB .
Former Page 3 model was allowed to take part in World Rally Championship finale after completing three trial rallies .
The 27-year-old is married to Tour de France legend Mark Cavendish .
The Prospeed team hope the car can be repaired to race on Saturday . |
09558574f0c20340fa59bc522a99654521f97bff | (CNN) -- In the twinkle of an eye, Israel Folau has accomplished what most athletes would be happy to achieve in an entire career -- and in his case he has done it in three sports. Since bursting onto the scene in 2007, the Australian has made his considerable presence felt in not one but three oval-ball codes, weighing in with match-winning performances in Rugby League, Aussie Rules football and, most recently, Rugby Union. Still only 25, Folau is now reaching his athletic peak and keen for the second half of his career to be just as successful as the first in which he has become a try scorer par excellence. "Everything's going to plan, the way I would have liked it," Folau told CNN's Human to Hero series. "There's hopefully a long way to go in my career." Affectionately known as "Izzy," Folau was born in the Sydney suburb of Minto to parents of Tongan descent. One of six siblings, Folau recalls being encouraged to participate in sports from an early age. "They were a very, very big part of my career growing up. I think probably all of my determination and eagerness to want to play professional sport came from my family." Folau began his professional Rugby League career at the age of 17, scoring a record 36 tries for Melbourne Storm in his rookie season. His raw talent earned him a call-up to the national squad becoming the youngest-ever player to represent the Kangeroos -- though his record of 18 years and 194 days was recently eclipsed by Sione Mata'utia. The following year, he rubber-stamped his status as an emerging star with a further 37 tries in 39 games, this time for the Brisbane Broncos. It was incredible start by any measure, but Folau took it all in his stride. "I probably realized when I was maybe 13 years of age that I could make a living out of playing professional sport and from that time on it was really a goal for me do that as soon as I can." Intimidating presence . Weighing in at just over 100 kg (220 lbs) and standing 1.95 m (6'5") tall, Folau is, like his childhood idol, former New Zealand winger Jonah Lomu, an intimidating physical presence on the pitch. A hefty frame allied to explosive turns of speed make Folau a real handful for opposition defenses. He is also incredibly agile for a big man, capable of salmon-like leaps to catch the high ball. "I get excited when the ball goes up in the air. I try to always get up there ... I get a buzz out of it. I am always trying to work at it." Having excelled at both club and international levels -- he scored six tries in eight appearances for the Kangeroos -- Folau inevitably attracted the attention of Rugby Union scouts. But rather than making what has become a routine switch between the 13 and 15-man codes, Folau opted to take a detour, signing for Australian Football League (AFL) side, the Greater Western Sydney Giants in 2011. "There are different reasons why I wanted to try AFL -- some of them family reasons and others were more personal ones," he explains of a route taken by only a handful of Australian Rugby League players in the past. "I wanted to challenge myself, you know, take myself out of my comfort zone." His two seasons in AFL didn't hit the heights reached in Rugby League but, as he has admitted in previous interviews, it was extremely rewarding financially. It wasn't just his bank balance that profited though, his all-round game did too, he says. "My time in AFL improved my kicking and, you know, I dropped a lot of weight when I was playing AFL, so I got to be a lot fitter. It has helped me a lot," he said. Union star . A comparatively quiet period in AFL exploded back into life when Folau signed for the Rugby Union side New South Wales Waratahs for the 2013 season. Cementing his place at fullback, Folau impressed with 20 tries in his debut season and he was drafted into the international squad to face the British and Irish Lions touring side. Folau's impact was immediate as he ran in two tries -- the second a sensational solo effort that lit up the Brisbane's Suncorp stadium -- earning him the Man of the Match award. Folau would end the year scoring a total of 10 international tries, equaling the Australian record for a season set by Lote Tuqiri in 2004. To date, he has scored 17 times in 29 appearances. Show-stopping cameos on the pitch have inevitably increased his profile off it, but Folau has remained focused, says former Australia coach, Ewen McKenzie. "Sometimes success can get in the way and people get confused, sidetracked and distracted, but he's just a very consistent operator," McKenzie told The New York Times in August. "He's difficult to contain. If you can get him in a one-on-one situation, he's going to get you a pretty good outcome. "He's a pretty big guy, he's got good skills, and he's pretty measured off the field. He's a very quiet, humble guy who is always smiling and laughing." After being voted Wallabies Rookie of the Year in 2013, Folau was honored again this year, winning the John Eales Medal -- an annual award given to the best Australian player of the year. Folau's talents seem to ensure that he will be singled out for some time to come, but it's being part of a team that he enjoys the most. "It's the best thing about it. You know, you get to enjoy the ups and downs together as a team, so you ride the emotions together. For me, I really enjoy the camaraderie and the things that you form within the team." With a World Cup in England to look forward to next year, Folau and his teammates will be aiming to win the William Webb Ellis trophy for a third time. Given the Wallabies recent run of form -- a disappointing five-match tour of Europe in November yielded just two victories -- that looks unlikely, but whatever happens Folau won't be taking his foot off the gas as he looks to continue repaying the sporting debt owed to his family. "Coming to Australia from overseas to try and give us an opportunity to make something out of living in Australia was a huge thing for me so I wanted to probably give back a bit," he says. "In a way I wanted to work hard and play at a professional level to help them out. It's always been a key part of my success and always will be to the day of my retirement." Read more: Cancer, amputation no barrier for champion thrower . Read more: Amazing martial art with scissor kicks and swords . | Australian rugby star has played Rugby League, Aussie Rules and Rugby Union .
Folau burst onto League scene as a 17-year-old and enjoying record-breaking career .
Now 25, Folau moved to Aussie Rules football in 2011; Played Union since 2013 .
Folau's game a mixture of speed, power and agility . |
095666dac141e371b41b0478b0ea54c5b60c9916 | By . Sam Webb . The West Ham footballer was initially arrested and charged with two counts of common assault after allegedly punching and slapping Miss Mansoor . Premier League footballer Ravel Morrison threatened to throw acid in the face of his ex-girlfriend and have her killed, a court heard today. Former Manchester United midfielder Morrison, 21, is also accused of threatening to blow up her house in a course of harassment against his ex-girlfriend Reah Mansoor lasting four years, Manchester Magistrates’ Court heard. The West Ham footballer was initially arrested and charged with two counts of common assault after allegedly punching and slapping Miss Mansoor, 19, and her mother Parveen Mansoor, 39, in the early hours of July 27 in Salford. Morrison, who spoke only to confirm his name, age and address, sat in the dock at the court for the brief hearing as the harassment allegation was also added to the charges. The court heard the additional charge of causing his ex-girlfriend to fear violence would be used against her spanned the period from January 1 2010 to July 20 this year. The charge alleges he threatened to throw acid in her face, blow up her house and have her killed and other threats of violence. David Fish QC, representing Morrison, indicated the defendant would be pleading not guilty to the charges. District Judge Khalid Qureshi bailed Morrison to appear at Manchester Crown Court for a preliminary hearing on August 28. Morrison, originally from Manchester, was initially remanded in custody last week before being bailed. His bail conditions are that he lives in Canary Wharf, London, does not contact directly or indirectly the two women complainants, does not go on to the street where they live, and does not enter the Greater Manchester area except for a court appearance, to see his lawyers or to visit for a West Ham game in the area and to return to London immediately after the match. Claims: The charge alleges Morrison threatened to throw acid in Reah Mansoor's face, blow up her house and have her killed, as well as other threats of violence . Miss Mansoor's mother Parveen Mansoor was also allegedly attacked in the incident . Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson sold him to West Ham for £650,000 in January 2012 . Despite being touted as a bright prospect at Old Trafford, Morrison appeared only in the League Cup before former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson sold him to West Ham for £650,000 in January 2012. West Ham manager Sam Allardyce took him to Upton Park but he was later shipped out on loan to Birmingham and QPR. Morrison picked up the first of his four England Under-21 caps in a 4-0 win over San Marino in October and was subject to a bid from Fulham in January - although the offer was rejected. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article. | Former Manchester United player arrested for assault on Reah Mansoor .
He allegedly punched and slapped Ms Mansoor and her mother .
The West Ham midfielder, 21, indicated he would plead not guilty . |
095785a58820ba9a2622ab06789b1c8823b8709b | A Chicago-born man kidnapped as a . toddler and taken to Mexico by his father more than three decades ago . has finally met his mother after being arrested trying to cross the border illegally. Mother Kathy Amaya, who lives in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and son, David Amaya Barrick, 37, finally reconnected Saturday at an airport in San Diego. The emotional meeting was hampered by the fact that Mr Barrick only speaks Spanish and Ms Amaya speaks only English, CNN noted. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . At long last: Mother Kathy Amaya, who lives in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and son, David Amaya Barrick, 37, finally reconnected Saturday at an airport in San Diego. Emotional embrace: Mother and son hugged upon first meeting, their first in three decades . 'I love you and I missed you a lot, I welcome you into my life,' the woman's son said - in Spanish, according to CNN. 'I love you and I'm very happy to see you and I'm not going to let you go,' she replied . They will spend a few days in San Diego before traveling to Wisconsin to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner, the network reported. Ms Amaya has four other children, all half-siblings to Mr Barrick, two of them still live at home and are looking forward to meeting their brother. Soon to be reunited: David Amaya Barrick was raised my his grandparents and does not speak any English. He had no idea his mother had been looking for him . Proof: When he was caught sneaking over the border from Mexico, immigration did not believe he was an American citizen until they later found his birth certificate . Before he was taken: Mother and son together in much happier times . She said she has been looking for her . child ever since her estranged husband abducted him and though she knew . he was in Mexico, she did not have the money to hire a private . investigator. David was raised by his grandparents and does not speak any English. He had no idea his mother had been looking for him. He told NBC 7 through . an interpreter: 'My father told me my mother had left me abandoned and . orphaned. I don’t know my mother, and I find out she’s been looking for . me for 30 years, and I have the longing to meet her for the first time.' Barrick . was rounded up with a group of illegal border crossers on October 30 in . a canyon about a mile from a San Diego beach, but he explained that he . was born in the US and had a right to be there. Overjoyed: David Amaya's mother Kathy has been looking for her son for 30 years . Though they did not believe him at first, border agents later verified his story. They then contacted Kathy Amaya to let her know that her son had turned up and wanted to return to her. 'They . told me he was beaten and robbed before he crossed the border and the . thieves took his money and his cell (phone),' Amaya said. 'They said he . seemed like a really good guy, and that he only speaks Spanish and I . don't.' Barrick was . born in Chicago in 1977 while Amaya was married to his father, but she . said her spouse became abusive and the couple split when the boy was . one-years-old. After . some time had passed, Amaya began letting the father visit his son and . 'then one day (the child) was just gone', she said. 'I reported his abduction, but when police found out he was with his dad, they weren't worried about it.' Amaya said the boy's father told her . that he had taken the toddler, then two years of age, to Mexico and left . him there with family members. His father and aunt took David to . Mexico under a one-month permit to visit his grandparents. However, he told NBC 7 his father left him there and he has only seen him a few times in the last 30 years. Iglesia de Cristo Ministerios Llamada . Final Inc de San Diego, based in Point Loma, is providing food and . shelter for David as the ministry tries to raise the funds to get him to . Wisconsin so he can see his mother and half siblings. Future: David Amaya is focusing on learning English and playing the drums so he can be a better musician, but his immediate goal is to meet his mom . Kathy Amaya told NBC 7 that David has four siblings, and she’s excited to have the family reunited. 'He just told me that he doesn't hold anything against me,' she added. 'So that makes me happy.' David finished high school in Mexico and studied music in Monterrey, Mexico. He plays drums and went on tour with a band. He is focusing on learning English and continuing his career as a musician - as soon as he meets his mother of course. | David Amaya Barrick thought his mother had abandoned him .
Kathy Amaya has spent the last 30 years looking for her son after her husband abducted him as a toddler .
The pair have finally met after decades apart . |
095847ff43bfc2c06e4bac2e12f0336d3628b110 | By . Mark Prigg . April was the joint hottest on record globally, forecasters have revealed. The combined average temperature over global land and ocean surfaces for April 2014 tied with 2010 as the highest on record for the month, at 0.77°C (1.39°F) above the 20th century average of 13.7°C (56.7°F). Researchers today said a sweltering summer is on the cards as the El Nino weather phenomenon is set to return - but say it could also result in fewer hurricanes. April across the world: The combined average temperature over global land and ocean surfaces for April 2014 tied with 2010 as the highest on record for the month, at 0.77°C (1.39°F) above the 20th century average of 13.7°C (56.7°F). El Niño refers to a set of conditions when the surface of the sea in an area along the Equator in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean becomes hotter than usual. The average water temperature in that area is typically between 1 and 3°C (approximately 2 and 5°F) warmer than normal during this event. This has the effect of adding huge amounts of heat and moisture into the atmosphere, ultimately affecting patterns of air pressure and rainfall across the Pacific and globally. Strong El Niño events occur every 20 years or so, but researchers recently said this could drop to 10 years thanks to global warming. At the opposite end of the scale, La Niña is the climatological counterpart to El Niño. La Niña refers to periods when sea-surface temperatures around the Equator are cooler than normal. This has a similar affect on air pressure and rainfall because it suppresses how much heat and moisture enters the atmosphere. A slower-than-usual hurricane season is expected this year because of an expected El Nino, forecasters said - but they warned that it takes only one storm to wreak havoc and urged Americans to be prepared. The El Nino, which warms part of the Pacific every few years and changes rain and temperature patterns around the world, will likely reduce the number and intensity of tropical storms and hurricanes, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said in New York City. Cooler temperatures on the surface of the Atlantic Ocean compared with recent years will also lower the probability of hurricane formation. Officials expect about eight to 13 named tropical storms and three to six hurricanes. Just one or two major hurricanes with winds over 110 miles per hour are forecast. The six-month storm season begins June 1. Forecasters got it wrong last year when they predicted an unusually busy hurricane season. There were just 13 named storms and two hurricanes, Umberto and Ingrid, both of which were Category 1, the lowest on the scale that measures hurricanes by wind speed. There were no major hurricanes. In 2012, storm surge was devastating to the New York area when Superstorm Sandy slammed the East coast, killing 147 people and causing $50 billion in damage. Sandy lost hurricane status when it made landfall in New Jersey. Person Walking in Hurricane Andrew: A slower-than-usual hurricane season is expected this year because of an expected El Nino, forecasters said . A new mapping tool this year will keep coastal residents updated on the storm surge threat in their communities. The Atlantic hurricane season goes through cycles of high and low activity about every 25 to 40 years based on large scale climatic patterns in the atmosphere. Since 1995, an average season has 15 named tropical storms, eight hurricanes and about four major storms. The last time a major hurricane made landfall in the U.S. was when Wilma came ashore in 2005, an eight-year stretch that is the longest on record. During the six-month season, forecasters name tropical storms when top winds reach 39 mph; hurricanes have maximum winds of at least 74 mph. However, Meteorologists are predicting that the weather will go wild later this year. The cause is El Niño, a warming of sea-surface temperatures in the Pacific, which can trigger both floods and drought in different parts of the world. But while scientists are anticipating a stronger-than-usual El Niño, many are warning that the planet is ill prepared to deal with the consequences. A spike in Pacific Ocean sea temperatures and the rapid movement of warm water eastwards have increased fears this year's El Niño could be one of the strongest yet. El Niño, pictured left, is a warming of sea temperatures that can trigger floods and droughts. La Niña, pictured right, is when sea temperatures drop . The more heat in the Pacific, the large the El Niño and right now a ball of warm water is crossing the ocean 490ft (150 metres) below the surface. A majority of weather forecasting models indicate that the phenomenon may develop around the middle of the year, but it was too early to assess its likely strength, the U.N. World Meteorological Organisation said on 15 April. Meteorologists claim the prospect of an El Niño will likely be firmed up 'in the next month or two', although forecasting its strength will be hard to do. The chance of it developing in 2014 exceeded 70 per cent according to Australia's Bureau of Meteorology. But according to a report in New Scientist, some El Niño researchers say forecasters are being too conservative. ‘One thing I hear over and over again is 'we do not want to create a panic', Axel Timmermann of the University of Hawaii in Honolulu told the magazine. One reason is that forecasting a big El Niño would increase food prices. ‘But it may be better to have this reaction at an early stage, when farmers can still adapt, rather than later,’ he said. The worst El Niño on record in 1997 to 1998 was blamed for massive flooding along China's Yangtze river, pictured, that killed over 1,500 people. Australian climate experts claim the recent rises in sea temperature are above those seen in previous El Niño years and suggest this year's events will be 'significant' Researchers claim that California, which faces floods, is well prepared for emergencies. India is thought to have invested in water storage in event of a drought. Scientists' main concern is Central and South America, Asia and Australia. The worst El Niño on record in 1997 and 1998 was blamed for massive flooding along China's Yangtze river, responsible for killing more than 1,500 people. A strong El Niño also increases fears that production of many key agricultural commodities in Asia and Australia will suffer. Strong El Niño events occur every 20 years or so, but researchers recently said this could drop to 10 years thanks to global warming. Here, the village of Puerto Maldonado, Peru, is seen flooded in January 2003 as a result of El Niño rains, which drove 16,000 people from their homes . The impact of this year's El Niño events is expected to be felt by every continent. During the 1997 to 1998 events, damages were said to have been in the region of between $35billion to $45billion. Beachfront homes in Malibu, California, pictured, collapsed after two weeks of high surf under El Niño weather conditions . Extreme El Niño events develop differently from standard El Niños, which first appear in the western Pacific. The extreme events occur when sea surface temperatures exceeding 28°C develop in the normally cold and dry eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean. This different location for the origin of the temperature increase causes massive changes in global rainfall patterns. The new patterns result in flash floods and torrential rain in some places and devastating droughts and wild fires in others. Extreme El Niño events are expected to double in frequency over the next 100 years. The impact of extreme El Niño events is felt by every continent. In January, a team of international . scientists said extreme weather events fuelled by unusually strong El . Niños are expected to double over the next century. Climate . scientists warned countries could be struck by devastating droughts, . wild fires and dramatic foods approximately every ten years. The team, made up of experts from the ARC Centre of Excellence for Climate System Science (CoECSS), the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and CSIRO, also spotted a link between global warming and extreme El Niño events. ‘We currently experience an unusually strong El Niño event every 20 years. Our research shows this will double to one event every 10 years,’ said Agus Santoso of CoECSS, who co-authored the study. ‘El Niño events are a multi-dimensional problem and only now are we starting to understand better how they respond to global warming,’ he added. Extreme El Niño events develop differently from standard El Niños, which first appear in the western Pacific. The extreme events occur when sea surface temperatures exceeding 28°C develop in the normally cold and dry eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean. Scientists in Germany recently said they can forecast disruptive El Niño events a year in advance. They hope the forecast will help countries develop better strategies to counter the effects such as wild fires, pictured in the Philippines. Meteorologists said the prospect of a 2014 El Niño will be firmed up 'in the next month or two' This different location for the origin of the temperature increase causes massive changes in global rainfall patterns, which result in floods and torrential rain in some places and devastating droughts and wild fires in others. The impacts of extreme El Niño events that extended to every continent across the globe in 1997, for example, killed around 23,000 people. Dr Cai continued: ‘During an extreme El Niño event countries in the western Pacific, such as Australia and Indonesia, experienced devastating droughts and wild fires, while catastrophic floods occurred in the eastern equatorial region of Ecuador and northern Peru.’ In Australia, the drought and dry . conditions caused by the 1982 and 1983 extreme El Niño led to the Ash . Wednesday Bushfire in southeast Australia, which resulted in 75 deaths. The scientists examined 20 climate models to simulate major rainfall reorganisation during extreme El Niño events. This satellite image shows the El Nino weather phenomena in 1997, represented by the the white area at the equator, which shows how the warm waters stretch from Peru to Alaska . | The combined average temperature over global land and ocean surfaces for April 2014 tied with 2010 as the highest on record .
Was 0.77°C (1.39°F) above the 20th century average of 13.7°C (56.7°F)
2014 El Niño could be one of the strongest for decades .
Some scientists claim areas such as Central America, Asia and Australia will struggle to cope, as predictions on its severity are not accurate . |
09584f7cee7942104effa0197a0fe531664c9c49 | By . Graeme Croser . Inverness Caledonian Thistle remain proudly at the top of the table after capitalising on Ronny Deila’s decision to prioritise Champions League football ahead of Premiership points. With a seat at Europe’s top table at stake - not to mention £15million - the Norwegian coach made 10 changes to the team that drew 1-1 with Maribor last Wednesday. To their credit, Inverness took full advantage, although they required a huge amount of good fortune to score, Eoghan O’Connell’s own goal arriving via some questionable goalkeeping by Lukasz Zaluska. Mix up: Eoghan O'Connell's second half own goal handed the win to Inverness Caledonian Thistle . Inverness CT: Brill, Raven, Warren, Meekings, Shinnie, Watkins (Doran 89'), Tansey, Draper, Williams, Christie (Ross 79'), McKay (Polworth 80'). Subs (not used): Esson, Horner, Tremarco. Goals: Eoghan O'Connell (o.g.) 65' Celtic: Zaluska, Ambrose, O'Connell, Mulgrew, McGeouch, Henderson, Biton, Twardzik (Johansen 46'), Commons, Griffiths (Stokes 68'), Pukki (McGregor 46'). Subs (not used): Denayer, Fasan, Berget, Kayal. Referee: Bobby Madden . Attendance: 5,862 . Deila’s predecessor Neil Lennon did something similar at this same venue two years ago as he prepared for a play-off second leg against Helsingborgs. On that occasion, a teenage striker by the name of Tony Watt marked his first start for the club with a double in a 4-2 victory before going on to make his name with a much more important strike against Barcelona in that season’s group stage. That day, Watt was backed up by the likes of Victor Wanyama and Fraser Forster but Deila decided to leave out virtually all his blue-chip performers, with stand-in captain Charlie Mulgrew the only man left standing after Slovenia. In contrast, this was very much the Inverness A team. League leaders on the back of three excellent results, there was no cause for the Highlanders to change a thing and manager John Hughes selected the same team that rolled over Motherwell last weekend. Hughes would doubtless be happy to send the same XI out every week but perhaps the greatest threat to this continuity is the transfer deadline. Billy McKay has long been the star attraction at the Caledonian Stadium and, as August’s end nears, the striker is attracting covetous glances, not least from long-term admirers Peterborough United. Celebration: Inverness' Rob Draper celebrates a rare victory over the Scottish champions . There was to be no goal here for McKay but it was his menacing presence that forced Zaluska’s error and he provided a selfless shift at the top of a unit that worked hard and knocked the ball around productively. The Northern Irish international might have fancied his chances against a makeshift central defensive pairing of Mulgrew and O’Connell but it was midfielder Greg Tansey who fired off two early salvos, clipping a free-kick into the side-netting and then sending Zaluska scrambling with a 35-yard effort. With Anthony Stokes, Jo Inge Berget and young man of the moment Callum McGregor left on the bench, Celtic started with Kris Commons as the principal striker, supported from wide by Leigh Griffiths and Teemu Pukki. It was a ploy that didn’t last long, with Commons dropping deeper into a pocket where he could get on the ball, create and, when the opportunity arose, take a shot. Celtic weren’t particularly fluent but created plenty of chances from Efe Ambrose’s improvised hook shot to Pukki’s double effort, each saved by the impressive Dean Brill. The Inverness keeper was beaten, though, by a sublime effort from Nir Bitton, but the Israeli midfielder’s curling shot came back off the crossbar. ‘I’m an honest guy - we rode our luck,’ admitted Hughes afterwards. ‘We have Dean Brill to thank for a few saves but to beat Celtic, you need that luck.’ The champions weren’t completely dominant, however. Mulgrew was forced to head clear from under his own bar after Gary Warren’s looping effort beat Zaluska and there was also a claim for a penalty as Ryan Christie went down in the area. Forlorn: It is another poor result in a difficult start for Celtic boss Ronny Deila . Referee Bobby Madden made a similar call in Inverness’s favour just after half-time when McGregor tumbled as he drove into the box. Right or wrong, the moment signalled a change in Celtic’s approach as the youngster’s half-time introduction for Pukki injected some verve into the Celtic attack. Deila’s other interval switch saw Stefan Johansen replace the toiling Filip Twardzik at left-back but, instead of improving things, the Norwegian was one of three Celtic players culpable at the goal. Effective as a central midfielder, Johansen’s discomfort at full-back was exploited by home winger Marley Watkins, who outwitted his opponent before firing the ball across goal. Zaluska underlined his perennial deputy status by palming the ball against O’Connell, who marked his first start of the season with an unwanted goal. In Christie, Inverness have a real talent. Son of former Caley Thistle favourite and manager Charlie, the teenager is easy on the eye whenever the ball is at his feet and he perhaps should have marked this occasion with a goal that would have clinched the points. McKay, who foraged hard without troubling Zaluska, set up Christie with the lay-off but the first-time shot slid past. Substitute Nick Ross had an even better opportunity but opted for placement ahead of power, allowing Zaluska to make a save. Despite Hughes inexplicably describing the last 20 minutes as being ‘like the Alamo’, Celtic’s response was non-existent. ‘The result is different class,’ said the Caley boss. ‘But I wish Celtic all the best on Tuesday night. I really do hope they qualify as it would be good for our game.’ | Celtic lose first game of the season away at Inverness Caledonian Thistle .
Eoghan O'Connell scores second half own goal to subject Hoops to defeat .
Inverness top of the table with 10 points from four games . |
095abf61897d895379ffe5ac7375bbd340c56a8a | He may have been allowed to leave the club without ever playing a league game for the first team, but Kristoffer Olsson still showed Arsenal some love as he departed. The 19-year-old Swede, whose only first-team appearance for the Gunners came off the bench in the Capital One Cup last season, has joined FC Midtjylland this week on a permanent deal. But, as the news was announced, Olsson took to Twitter to say 'Once a Gunner, always a Gunner'. Kristoffer Olsson (right) played just once for Arsenal's first team, in the Capital One cup against West Brom . Olsson expressed his love for the club on Twitter, despite being sold to FC Midtjylland . The tweet reflects Cesc Fabregas' comments when he left the club to join Barcelona, although the Spanish midfielder has sinced joined rivals Chelsea, after Arsene Wenger opted not to buy him back. Olsson has been on loan at FC Midtjylland since the beginning of the season, playing six times in the Danish top flight. The Sweden U21 international said on joining permanently: 'this is a club that believes in me and sees my potential.' Olsson has played six times on loan with FC Midtjylland and has now joined the Danish club permanently . | Arsenal sell 19-year-old Swede to Danish club FC Midtjylland .
Kristoffer Olsson has been out on loan for the first half of this season .
Swedish international takes to social media to express love for Arsenal . |
095b50994bce3a7c0085f813b544746a010a9cb0 | A man suspected of taking a drugs overdose was arrested after he violently attacked two paramedics - before speeding off in their AMBULANCE. The ambulance crew treating the 37-year-old patient were forced to call police yesterday after he became so violent they were unable to control him. The man assaulted the two male paramedics just before 3pm on the High Street in Bloxwich, West Midlands, after being helped from a flat to the ambulance. The damaged ambulance. A police car was also . damaged trying to stop the fleeing man and the police officer driving . needed to be taken to hospital . But before the police could arrive the man forced the paramedics out of their ambulance, jumped behind the wheel and sped off with the vehicle's back doors still open. He then drove erratically down the busy road for nearly two miles, making at least two U-turns, before crashing into a police car outside the village's Baptist Church. After being forced to stop by the collision the man was then arrested. West Midlands Police confirmed the man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of assault and vehicle theft. He was then held at a nearby police station. Inspector Tony Banton, from Bloxwich Police Station, said: 'The ambulance was driven off with its rear doors still open. A West Midlands Ambulance like that pictured was stolen after a man attacked two paramedics . 'It was reported being driven very erratically and we're looking into whether it may have struck other vehicles. 'A response vehicle quickly picked up the ambulance and the man was arrested within five minutes of the emergency call coming in to us. 'There was a low-level collision between the ambulance and the arresting officer's car. That officer has been taken to hospital suffering whiplash-like injuries. 'Two male members of ambulance staff were also taken to hospital as a precaution but are not seriously injured.' A man was said to have driven erratically along busy Bloxwich High Street in the West Midlands . A spokesperson for the West Midlands Ambulance Service, said: 'Two ambulance crew members were attacked by a man they'd been called to help, and who they believed needed hospital treatment. For them to be attacked is disgraceful. 'Thankfully they've not been seriously hurt but no doubt this was a shocking, unexpected incident, and one of our vehicles has been badly damaged and will have to be taken off the road for some time to be repaired. 'We won't tolerate any abuse against our staff. Anyone attacking ambulance crew can expect the full weight of the law to come down on them. We will do all we can to help the police with their inquiry.' | Paramedics called to man suspected of overdosing on illegal drugs .
But as they tried to help him he attacked the men and drove off in vehicle .
Police car collided with ambulance in a bid to stop him and officer hurt .
Neither the arresting officer or the two paramedics were seriously injured .
Man, 37, arrested after incident in Bloxwich High Street, West Midlands . |
095c831720238ca7f7475a41e556e3b4ac12275e | A poaching ring illegally slaying deer in a spree of 'thrill killings' was cracked after one member posted a picture on Facebook. The incriminating photograph appeared to show Jose Manuel Ortega-Torres lumbering a dead animal over his shoulder in the baking summer sunlight - months before the fall hunting season. Game officials were tipped off in June 2013, sparking a lengthy investigation that uncovered a gang of 'thrill killers' in Las Vegas, Nevada, who shot game for no other purpose than to kill them. Spotted: This picture of Jose Manuel Ortega-Torres lumbering a dead deer in the summer was uploaded to Facebook and sparked a widespread investigation that cracked an illegal poaching ring of 'thrill killers' Nevada Department of Wildlife spokesman Edwin Lyngar said: 'People do not poach to feed their families. In the vast majority of cases, the meat is left behind. We call these thrill killings, where people do it for their ego. 'They were taking some of the meat, but that doesn’t seem to be the motivating factor.' A search of Ortega-Torres's home found illegally-killed deer, migratory birds and a stash of weaponry, Fox News reported. The findings led them to his associates: Adrian Acevedo-Hernandez, 36, Jose Luis Montufar-Canales, 31, and J. Nemias Reyes Marin, 31, . The group is believed to have illegally obtained licenses and tags to hunt. Nevada Department of Wildlife said the gang, here in another Facebook post, shot animals for an ego boost . Uncovered: Investigators found fridges full of dead animals shot under illegally-obtained hunting licenses . 'We had a systematic killing, illegal killing, of wildlife,' Lyngar said. 'We will never know the total amount that they killed.' All bar Ortega-Torres are facing federal charges for possessing firearms as it is believed they are illegal immigrants. Awaiting further trials, Acevedo-Hernandez has already been convicted of unlawfully possessing three deer, ordered to pay $5,000, and forfeit seven firearms and a truck. Montufar-Canales was convicted of falsely obtaining a hunting license. | Jose Manuel Ortega-Torres was pictured lumbering dead deer in summer, months before fall hunting season in Las Vegas, Nevada .
Police were tipped off, uncovered gang of 'thrill killers' with illegal licenses .
Nevada Wildlife officials said the men shot animals for an 'ego boost' |
095ca12c78836611369cfdbe7b0e58c99429dea3 | Washington (CNN) -- Using the most unlikely of clues -- a pretzel bag -- authorities in Denmark and the United States are zeroing in on a suspected child abuser, and they are asking for the public's help in ending the exploitation of a small girl. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Tuesday released five photographs of a man carefully edited from four videos in which the man sexually assaults a young girl, believed to be 7 to 9 years old. Three of the videos, which contain a clear image of the man, are date-stamped April 14, a fourth is dated April 27, and all four appear to have been posted on the Internet several days later, on May 2. Danish National Police discovered the videos soon thereafter and notified U.S. authorities on May 3. Three factors led Danish investigators to believe the crime occurred in the U.S.: the background, some products visible in the video, and the man's appearance. In the United States, investigators with Homeland Security Investigations, the law enforcement arm of ICE, saw a Frito-Lay Rold Gold bag for thin pretzels in the videos. By studying Frito-Lay web sites, they learned that Rold Gold pretzels are packaged differently within the United States and Canada. ICE investigators believe the bag in the video is exclusively distributed in the United States. With leads coming to an end, the investigators are asking the public for help in identifying the man. "We kind of hit a wall in this investigation. Without the public's help, we may not be able (to find the man) and more importantly stop the ongoing abuse of this victim," said Brian Korzak, a special agent with ICE's Cyber Crimes Center, Child Exploitation Unit. Publication of the man's photo "will greatly increase our chances of locating this individual," said Special Agent Patrick Redling. "Since the videos were created so recently, we feel there's a child in danger right now." Korzak and Redling say investigators routinely identify both technical and visual clues in videos for evidence to identify criminals and to rescue victims. HSI is asking anyone with information about this man to contact the agency immediately by calling the ICE Tip Line at 866-347-2423 or completing an online tip form at www.ICE.gov/tips. Tips remain anonymous, ICE said, and individuals should not attempt to apprehend the suspect. ICE filed a criminal complaint in the U.S. District Court of Washington on Friday, charging the man in the photos, identified as a "John Doe," of producing, possessing and distributing child pornography. | A man sexually abuses a girl in four videos posted on the Internet, authorities say .
A pretzel bag available only in the U.S. and Canada narrows the search, ICE says .
The bag is seen in the videos from which five images of the suspect are taken .
Danish authorities say they found the videos, made in April, earlier this month . |
095e2cdaa97e8f65f25d29c853cad7be788527d5 | (CNN) -- Joe Paterno led the Penn State Nittany Lions for 46 seasons and -- in the process -- became the winningest coach in college football history. Then came the child molestation scandal involving his former defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky and allegations that Paterno played a role in concealing it. The NCAA vacated 111 of his wins over a 14-year period, fined the school $60 million, reduced scholarships and banned it from bowl games for four years. Paterno died last year, his iconic reputation in tatters. But his relatives filed a lawsuit Thursday to see that his legacy doesn't end that way. The lawsuit -- filed by the Paterno family, several members of the Penn State Board of Trustees, faculty, former players and coaches -- takes to task the NCAA and a report by former FBI director Louis Freeh, whom the sports body hired to conduct an independent investigation of Penn State's handling of the scandal. "The report on which the NCAA relied for its actions is fundamentally wrong, incomplete and inaccurate," a release from the parties filing the lawsuit said. "The consent decree with Penn State was hastily imposed on the University, completely disregarding the rights of the affected parties." The 40-page suit, filed in Common Pleas Court of Centre County, Pennsylvania, Thursday, is the second filed against the college sports governing body. Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett filed an anti-trust lawsuit in January against the NCAA on the grounds that its punishments for the university are "overreaching and unlawful." Paterno legacy shadowed by sex abuse scandal . Severe penalties . Paterno coached at Penn State for 62 years as an assistant and head coach, but was fired after authorities arrested Sandusky. In 2002, a graduate assistant brought to Paterno allegations of Sandusky's sexual abuse in one of Penn State's facilities. Paterno informed his supervisors of the report, but the school's board of trustees fired Paterno in November 2011, saying he could no longer perform his duties in the shadow of scandal. Sandusky was convicted in June 2012 on 45 counts of child sex abuse. He was sentenced to 30 to 60 years in prison. Penn State supporters mark anniversary of Paterno's death . Top figures at Penn State blamed . Freeh's 267-page review blamed Paterno, former university President Graham Spanier, suspended Athletic Director Tim Curley and ex-Vice President Gary Schultz for allegedly taking part in a cover-up to avoid bad publicity. Joe Paterno's family fights back . The scandal led to Spanier's ouster and shocked the nation after Freeh's team concluded that the school's top administrators had "empowered" Sandusky, the former defensive coordinator for the football team, to continue his abuse. In addition to overturning the sanctions, the lawsuit seeks money for damages and legal costs. The Paterno estate says it will donate any money it receives from the lawsuit to charity. "The one thing everyone should agree on is that the Sandusky scandal deserves a thorough, fair and careful review," said Wick Sollers, the attorney for those filing the lawsuit. "The NCAA's actions sought to limit the knowledge of the case and trample the rights of the individuals and institutions that were unfairly and inaccurately blamed by the Freeh report." Sollers previously issued a critique of the Freeh report, calling it a "rush to injustice regarding Joe Paterno." The Paterno report . Paterno family: Freeh report 'factually wrong' This is not the first time the Paterno family has fought back. In February, it released a report that absolved the coaching great of blame in the Sandusky scandal and said the Freeh report, commissioned by Penn State, was "factually wrong, speculative and fundamentally flawed." Former Attorney General Dick Thornburgh put together the new report. "The experts determined that the conclusions of the (university) report are based on raw speculation and unsupported opinion - not facts and evidence," Thornburgh said, according to a statement from the family. The statement said Paterno never attempted to hide any information or impede any investigation into Sandusky's activities while using Penn State facilities. Freeh said the family review was "self-serving." Read Freeh's statement . CNN's Susan Candiotti contributed to this report. | The 40-page lawsuit was filed in Common Pleas Court on Thursday .
NCAA sanctions against Penn State include a $60 million fine .
Louis Freeh says family review was "self-serving"
Freeh review finds Joe Paterno and others showed "shocking disregard" for victims . |
095ed79e3bd0499f32585a690089a331b45a10e6 | (CNN) -- A knife-wielding man attacked a woman in a supermarket, eventually cutting off her head and running away with it, government officials in Spain's Tenerife Island said Friday. The man entered a shopping center in the town of Arona, in the Cristianos area of Tenerife, and stole a knife from the supermarket before attacking the apparent stranger, a central government spokeswoman said. Shopping center security guards were alerted and chased the man, subduing him until police arrived. The man, whom national police in Tenerife identified as a Bulgarian, was apparently known in the shopping area, the government spokeswoman said. The British Foreign and Commonwealth office confirmed Friday that a British national had died in Tenerife, part of the Canary Islands. CNN's Al Goodman, Per Nyberg and Bharati Naik contributed to this report. | A knife-wielding man attacked a woman on Tenerife .
He cut off her head and ran away with it, officials say .
Security guards chased and subdued him .
Police identified him as Bulgarian national . |
095f4030bc41f552334f4b3152e90dfc3c193137 | An eight-year-old boy has left doctors baffled after his hands swelled to giant proportions and now weigh more than two stone. Young Kaleem, from India, is unable to carry out simple tasks, including tying his own shoe laces, after he was born with hands twice the size of an average baby. His mother Haleema, 27, said she knew he was different at birth but was powerless to help and the youngster's hands have now grown so large they measure 13 inches from the base of his palm to the end of his middle finger. Scroll down for video . Kaleem, from India, was born with hands twice the size of an average baby and they have continued to grow . His hands now measure 13 inches from the base of his palm to the tip of his middle finger and weigh two stone . The eight-year-old claims he is bullied because of his giant hands and has difficulty performing simple tasks . The cricket fan said he has been bullied and shunned most of his life because others are 'scared' of his deformity. He said: 'I do not go to school because the teacher says other kids are scared of my hands. 'Many of them used to bully me for my deformity. They would say "let's beat up the kid with the large hands". 'Some of them have actually beaten me and would go after me often. 'I find it difficult to put on my clothes, button my shirt and pull up my pants. 'But I don't know if I want doctors to operate on my hands. They would have to make me unconscious and then they would cut me open. 'I have no problem if they could do it without an injection. A small operation would be okay.' His parents, who earn just £15 a month, have been desperately trying to find help for their son - but to no avail. His mother Haleema, 27, (pictured with Kaleem and another one of her children) said she feels 'powerless' Kaleem, a keen cricketer, said the teachers at his school have told him other children are 'scared' of his hands . He has found it difficulty to play cricket and hold a bat due to his condition but tries to still join in with his friends . His mother, who has other children who do not suffer from the same condition, said: 'When Kaleem was born his hand was twice the size of a normal baby's. 'His hands were big and his fingers were long. Initially his fists were small but they began to grow large as well and his fingers also kept growing.' His father, Shamim, 45, who works as a labourer, is worried his son will never be independent and blames himself for not earning enough money. 'He has difficulty feeding himself because his fist does not bend properly - so we have to feed him,' he said. 'Using two fingers he is able to pick up some things like a glass of water to drink. 'We want to take him to the hospital but there have been times when money has been so low that my wife has been forced to go begging. 'In that kind of financial situation, getting treatment for Kaleem was difficult. 'Even when I tried to get Kaleem into the school, the headmaster told me to put in writing that the school would not be responsible if the other children were afraid of his hands or bullied him or laughed at him.' Doctors in India have been left baffled by his growing hands and many are at a loss as to what the condition is . The youngster has difficulty eating, tying his shoelaces and carrying out other basic tasks due to his hands . Kaleem's father Shamim, 45, (pictured together above) is worried his son will never become independent . The couple have only just been able to take their son to a local doctor for an assessment but their hopes of an instant cure have been dashed. Dr Ratan, the director of the local hospital, said: 'As far as my knowledge goes, this is an extremely rare condition. 'I have not seen a case in medical journals or on the internet where only the hands grew to such a large size. 'Until we have done proper genetic testing we will not be able to say exactly what is causing this deformity.' He said that apart from the unsightly growths, Kaleem is in good health - with properly functioning lungs and heart. Doctors have assessed Kaleem and have described his hands as a 'rare condition'. He is otherwise healthy . Kaleem was born with larger-than-average hands but they have continued to grow throughout his childhood . But as his hands continue to grow it may put increased pressure on his cardiovascular system, potentially shortening his life. Elsewhere, Dr Krishan Chugh, head of paediatrics at the state-of-the-art Fortis Memorial Research Institute in Gurgaon, near Delhi, has also been left baffled after reviewing photographs and videos of the boy's hands. However, he believes Kaleem may be suffering from either lymphangioma or hamartoma - which are both treatable. He added: 'This condition looks very rare and I have come across something like this before. Without proper examination and medical tests I am not 100 per cent sure about what this is.' Kaleem's parents are now hoping to raise money for their son in the hope that his condition can be treated . One doctor said he believes the Kaleem may be suffering from either lymphangioma - a condition of the lymphatic system causing extreme inflamation - or hamartoma - a benign tumour - both of which are treatable . Lymphangioma is a condition of the lymphatic system which causes extreme inflammation resulting in doughy masses forming in certain parts of the body. Hamartoma is a benign type of tumour where the body produces excess tissue. After hearing from the doctors, Kaleem's parents now have renewed optimism that something can be done for their son and are doubling their efforts to raise money for him. 'We have tried several places with no solutions so far,' said Shamim. 'But I have a feeling there is a way to get the resources to give my son a normal life.' | Kaleem, from India, was born with hands twice the size of an average baby .
Continued to grow and now weigh two stone meaning simple tasks are hard .
They each measure 13 inches from the base of palm to end of middle finger .
Local doctors baffled by condition which has seen youngster be bullied over . |
095fd5b1351e1da89c94a7cb2524b001a79cc910 | A seven-month-old girl was taken to hospital Saturday by concerned parents after an area just below her jaw swelled up to the size of one and a half golf balls with a pimple on top. After initially diagnosing an infection, doctors were shocked when they discovered a two-inch-long black feather had got lodged underneath Mya Whittington's skin. Aaron and Emma Whittington first took their nearly seven-month-old daughter to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, Kansas on Saturday after the area below her jaw swelled up. The marked area on Mya's neck shows the size of the original swollen infected area caused by a feather that she ingested from a pillow . Right for plucking: A two-inch-long black feather emerges from Mya's swollen face . 'They thought it was a swollen gland,' Aaron Whittington said. The hospital administered an antibiotic and sent the family home. Mya's grandmother took her back to the hospital after a 'pimple' appeared on the swollen area, which had now grown to the size of about one and a half golf balls, Aaron Whittington said. 'She looked like Quasimodo,' her father said. The physician suspected a staph infection on her lymph nodes. A doctor broke the pimple to try to drain it and drew marks on her face to measure whether the swelling increased. The intravenous antibiotics were continued. On Monday, the doctor on rounds scraped off a scab that formed. After the doctor left, the Whittingtons noted what appeared to be a string or stick emerging from the spot. They left it alone, since the doctor hadn't done anything to it, Aaron said. The two-inch feather pulled from Mya's neck which made its exit through a swollen infected pimple on her neck . Brave baby: The swelling on Mya's neck would have caused an immense amount of pain, but the brave girl cried mostly only when nurses have poked her . When Mya's pediatrician visited later that evening, however, she asked what it was. She then put on a pair of gloves and plucked a two-inch-long black feather from the swollen area of the child's neck. They suspect, Whittington said, that the baby swallowed or inhaled the feather, which apparently pierced the inside of her cheek or throat and then, over time, her body forced it out the other way. The Whittingtons had a down pillow on their bed, but Mya wasn't normally on it, and it's been in the couple's laundry room for months, Emma Whittington said. It's headed for the trash. Mya Whittington with her father Aaron, who said his daughter looked like Quasimodo when her face was swollen . 'She's been pulling on the left side . of her face for a couple of months,' Emma said, but she suspected it was . teething or an ear infection. In . her 20 years on the pediatric floor at the hospital, RN Sandra Mathis . has never seen the like, though she recalls a child coming in once with . hairbrush bristles stuck in its tonsils that had to be removed, from . chewing on a brush. The . Whittingtons' doctor indicated the swelling had to be causing an . immense amount of pain, Emma said, but Mya cried mostly only when nurses . have poked her. Her . ordeal isn't over yet, however. The swollen area has a hard knot in it . about four centimeters in size. If the knot doesn't break up on its own, . Mya is headed for surgery in Wichita to remove it. | Mya Whittington's parents became concerned after an area below her jaw started to swell up .
Doctors initially diagnosed an infection but then plucked a two-inch-long black feather that was lodged under her skin .
Doctors believe Mya inhaled the feather, .
which then pierced the inside of her cheek and, .
over time, her body forced it out . |
09612c511190363b24057db366c3b6b73c37590e | By . Ian Leonard . PUBLISHED: . 05:01 EST, 13 July 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 09:29 EST, 13 July 2013 . A cabbie whose wife left him for a Neil Diamond impersonator was attacked by a drunken passenger when he refused to sing along to the crooner's famous hit Sweet Caroline. Ken Collins, 77, was left bleeding after being punched in the face by Matthew Rothwell when he refused to join him in an impromptu duet. Ken said the attack had left him 'in tears' and he'd lost two of his teeth and some of his dentures. Traumatised: Cabbie Ken Collins, 77, was left bleeding. lost two teeth and traumatised after he was punched in the face by drunk Matthew Rothwell after he refused to sing with him . Rothwell, 52, a former glazing businessman, grew angry in the cab when Ken refused to sing along with him, calling him 'a miserable b******'. Great-grandfather Ken, from Bolton, . said: 'I was going to reverse and he came up to the driver's side and . punched me through the window. 'I was laid over the seat, in shock, and felt my teeth out. There was blood everywhere.' Ken, who's been unable to listen to . Neil Diamond since his wife left him 40 years ago, added: 'I couldn't . sleep after it. I was in tears, there was just so much emotion.' The day after the attack the veteran . driver travelled to Thailand on holiday but was forced to come home . early due to the injury and he still suffers from pain. The attack happened in Failsworth, Oldham, on February 25 after Ken had picked up Rothwell from The Mitre pub in the town. Ken, left, has been unable to listen to Neil Diamond since his wife left him 40 years ago. Matthew Rothwell, 52, right, was sentenced to a 12-month community order with supervision and 200 hours of unpaid work the attack . Ken, who works for Radio Cars in Manchester, told the Bolton News: 'Rothwell said, "Do you like Neil Diamond?" I said "All I want to do is get you home". 'I don't like Neil Diamond, my wife ran off with a fella in 1973 who sang Sweet Caroline and left me with the children.' The pair had also clashed over the route Ken had taken in the cab. Rothwell stuck two fingers up at Ken after paying his fare and Ken shot back, 'And you'. Rothwell then walked back to the car and hit Ken with a single punch in the face . Rothwell, of Failsworth, admitted . assault causing actual bodily harm and was handed a 12-month community . order with supervision and 200 hours of unpaid work at Manchester's . Minshull Street Crown Court. He was also ordered to pay Ken £500 compensation. Ken called the sentence 'disgraceful'. | Grandfather Ken Collins lost two teeth, was left traumatised after the attack .
Has been unable to listen to Neil Diamond since his wife left him 40 years ago .
Matthew Rothwell, 52, was handed a 12-month supervised community order and 200 hours unpaid work . |
0961a6a9fef7ad978ab866a57415578a49ba187f | (CNN) -- Canada announced Wednesday that it will dispatch a warship to Somalia's coast to protect U.N. aid ships from pirate attacks. The Canadian frigate HMCS Ville de Quebec will escort ships carrying food aid to Somalia. "Canada is stepping up to the plate by tasking Ville de Quebec with the role of escorting World Food Programme ships to ensure their safe arrival at designated ports," Canadian Defense Minister Peter MacKay said in a government news release. The United Nations hunger program praised Canada for answering its call for help, and said it hoped other governments would step forward to take over from Canada once it completes its mission in a few weeks. The HMCS Ville de Quebec is a 440-foot frigate armed with torpedoes, surface-to-air missiles and other weapons, and carries a twin-engine Sea King anti-submarine helicopter. Ville de Quebec, which can travel at speeds greater than 27 knots, will be dispatched after Somalia's transitional government formally authorizes the mission, the government's news release said. WFP asked the world's naval powers in mid-June to help its ships reach the more than 2 million people in need of aid. It put out the request weeks before French, Danish and Dutch warships ended their escort missions, which began in November. Pirate attacks on unescorted ships have been a growing problem in Somalia. Three European freighters were hijacked off the Horn of Africa in June, adding to the 27 other reported attacks this year, according to the International Maritime Bureau, which tracks piracy. WFP delivers 80 percent of its aid to Somalia by sea, and WFP spokesman Peter Smerdon said that if there are no warships to escort the food supply, the program will have to rely on ground or air travel to deliver the food. But both are dangerous and expensive. The agency said that if there is no assistance from naval powers, piracy will increase, and so will death and malnutrition. Smerdon said that although Somalia's food crisis hasn't yet reached the devastation of the early 1990s, "We're worried it will be." | Canada to send 440-foot frigate to help aid reach ports safely .
Mission must be authorized by Somalia's transitional government .
80 percent of U.N.'s food aid to Somalia sent by ship .
Heavily armed pirates frequently hijack cargo ships off Horn of Africa . |
096207775ae9a791afdacd67b263a7a637a52f70 | By . Nick Mcdermott . PUBLISHED: . 08:20 EST, 12 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 19:59 EST, 12 March 2013 . It used to be straight to bed without supper for boys and girls who misbehaved. But with many children now firmly attached to their electronic gadgets, parents are opting to punish them by confiscating their iPads, smartphones and portable games consoles instead. The only problem is that more than half said their offspring have thrown a tantrum – which some refer to as ‘an iPaddy’ – after their devices are taken away from them. The iPaddy: Researchers say eight out of 10 parents of children aged 14 or under now restrict their childrens use of gadgets as their preferred method of punishment. A quarter of British households now own tablet computers and children are becoming increasingly attached to the devices. In a survey of 2,000 parents, eight out of ten who had children aged 14 or under said they now restrict their use of gadgets as their preferred method of punishment. The research found that on average, children spend nearly two hours a day on their favourite gadgets, while more than a quarter spend more than four hours a day staring at a screen. Confiscating their digital device was reckoned the most effective form of punishment by parents as it stopped their children being able to communicate with their friends. Ghadi Hobeika, of online retailer Pixmania, which commissioned the survey, said: ‘Gadgets such as tablets and smartphones provide both a method of communication and a form of entertainment, so when parents remove them, this becomes a double whammy.’ The research also found that more than one in ten children under the age of four regularly used a tablet computer. The research found on average, children spend nearly two hours a day on their favourite gadgets . Although half of parents admitted to buying their children digital devices, more than 70 per cent were concerned their offspring had grown too attached to them. More than half of parents said they had banned their children from playing with them, or removed them for a period of time. The most popular gadget bought for children was a games console such as an Xbox or PlayStation, owned by 46 per cent of youngsters, followed by MP3 music players and smartphones, which 30 per cent possess. However not only are many children spending increasing amounts of time on their gadgets, they are also running up huge bills for their unsuspecting parents. Last month, it emerged a five-year-old had run up a bill of £1,700 in charges on a so-called ‘free’ iPad game. Luckily his parents managed to persuade Apple that it was a mistake and got their money back. However customers who accidentally rack up large bills on iTunes do not have an automatic right to a refund. | Quarter of British households now own tablet computers .
Survey says eight out of ten parents restrict gadget use as punishment .
On average, children spend nearly two hours a day on favourite gadget . |
09628aeb8feb79a170a5b12fa1bae4f5ff936c33 | By . Daily Mail Reporter . UPDATED: . 14:46 EST, 28 June 2011 . 'Undesirable' and 'dangerous' immigrants who have committed serious crimes in Britain cannot be deported if they face 'ill-treatment' at home because it is against their human rights. European judges ruled today that regardless of how bad their crimes are, the convicts can never be sent back. Today in the landmark decision, two Somalis - Abdisamad Adow Sufi and Abdiaziz Ibrahim Elmi - won their appeal against deportation. The panel of seven judges at the European Court of Human Rights (pictured) ruled two Somali criminals could not be sent back . There are now fears that up to 200 more . criminals could be allowed to stay by declaring they will be tortured if . sent back to their country of origin. Strasbourg judges ruled that the two Somalis could not be sent back to Mogadishu - despite serious convictions. Both Sufi and Elmi have convictions for a number of serious offences. In the case of Elmi, 42, it is . robbery and supplying class A drugs cocaine and heroin and in that of . Sufi, 24, it is burglary and threats to kill. The European Court of Human Rights also awarded Sufi and Elmi, both currently in UK immigration detention centres, £12,500 and £6,700 respectively for costs and expenses in bringing the case. Sufi, 24, claimed asylum in the UK in 2003 on the grounds that he belonged to a minority clan persecuted by Somali militia. His account was rejected as not credible and asylum was refused. Elmi, 42, arrived in the UK in 1988 and was granted leave to stay as a refugee in 1989, renewed indefinitely in 1993. Their UK appeals that they risked being ill-treated or killed if returned to Mogadishu were rejected. The European Court of Human Rights blocked their deportation pending a hearing of their appeals to the Strasbourg court. Violence fears: UK appeals by the Somalis who claimed they would face the risk of harm if sent back to Mogadishu were rejected. However, the court overturned that ruling. (File picture) Today the seven-judge court ruled unanimously that deporting them would breach the Human Rights Convention Article 3 which bans 'inhuman or degrading treatment'. The ruling said: 'The court reiterated that the prohibition of torture and of inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment is absolute, irrespective of the victims' conduct. 'Consequently, the applicants' behaviour, however undesirable or dangerous, could not be taken into account.' The judges said no one disputed that, towards the end of 2008, Mogadishu was not a safe place to live for the majority of its citizens. The situation had deteriorated since then. The ruling cited the UK's own Asylum and Immigration Tribunal which acknowledged the dangers, while saying it was possible that individuals with connections to powerful people in Mogadishu might be able to live there safely. Anyone else being returned would face a real risk of persecution or serious harm, although those whose home area was in any part of southern and central Somalia might be able to go back in safety and without undue hardship. Human Rights Watch described the situation in Mogadishu as 'one of the world's worst human rights catastrophes'. The judges concluded that the general level of violence in Mogadishu 'was of sufficient intensity to pose a real risk of treatment in breach of Article 3 to anyone in the capital'. The judgment described the case as the 'lead case' against the UK, with 214 similar cases pending before the same court. | More than 200 foreign criminals could now be granted right to stay following test case .
Somali Abdisamad Adow Sufi convicted of burglary and robbery .
Abdiaziz Ibrahim Elmi guilty of robbery and supplying Class A drugs . |
0962eb94bad5134d67c6ce2dbef604d8980fb333 | (CNN) -- Kim Clijsters has regained the WTA Tour Championship title, seven years after last winning it, after a hard-fought three-set victory over Caroline Wozniacki in Doha, Qatar on Sunday. Belgian Clijsters, who was lifting the trophy for a third time following back-to-back wins in 2002 and 2003, beat world number one Wozniacki 6-3 5-7 6-3 in a thrilling two hour and 20 minute clash. It marked a remarkable return for 27-year-old Clijsters, who was appearing in her first tournament since retaining her U.S. Open title seven weeks ago, following a foot operation. Is Wozniacki a worthy world number one? "It was a very tough battle, and I think it was a fine advert for women's tennis," Clijsters told reporters. "I'm glad I won but I don't know how many more years I will play --and I think Caroline has a great future ahead of her," added Clijsters. Dane Wozniacki, who will end the year as number one following six WTA Tour titles this season, said: "It was still a fantastic week for me. "I would love to come back here, and I would love to try for this title once again." Meanwhile, Sunday saw three ATP Tour finals take place around Europe with home favorite Gael Monfils claiming his third career title with a 6-2 5-7 6-1 win over Croatia's Ivan Ljubicic in the final of the inaugural Montpellier tournament. World number 15 Monfils has been beaten in both of his two previous final appearances this year, in Stuttgart and Tokyo. Elsewhere, top seed and world number 12 Jurgen Melzer fought back from the brink of defeat to see off fellow-Austrian Andreas Haider-Maurer 6-7 7-6 6-4 to win the Austria Tennis Trophy in Vienna for the second year in a row. And there was a surprise in the final of the St Petersburg Open in Russia when unseeded Mikhail Kukushkin of Kazakhstan shocked top seed Mikhail Youzhny to win his maiden ATP title. The 22-year-old from Astana completed a 6-3 7-6 victory after two hours and 25 minutes of play. | Kim Clijsters regains the WTA Tour Championship title after beating Caroline Wozniacki .
The 27-year-old Belgian wins 6-3 5-7 6-3 to regain the title she last won in 2003 .
Despite the defeat, Dane Wozniacki will still complete the year as world No.1 . |
09630e70a8e8d010a30ea74b4558f0769b601cb7 | (CNN) -- Springwood teenagers Dean, Kris, Jesse, Nancy and Quentin are having trouble not sleeping: They're knocking back coffee, popping pills, anything to delay another date with their dream stalker (which may explain why these high school students look like college grads). When one of them does drop off, the bedsheets turn red. Wes Craven's 1984 slumber party massacre started from scratch -- it was a low-budget item from what was then a genuine independent studio, New Line -- and became the iconic horror franchise of the decade. With his battered fedora, a striped sweater, a razor-glove and a face like Sal's Famous, Freddy Krueger was the most personable boogie man Hollywood had come up with in a long time, so what if he was also a child abuser? A recurring nightmare who stalked teenagers as they slept, Freddy preyed on the defenseless and played fast and loose with physics: If Salvador Dali had created a slasher movie villain, he might have come up with someone like Freddy. After eight movies, a TV series and a comic book, you might think Mr. Krueger had been done to death. It's been seven years since Freddy put Jason Vorhees in his place (in "Freddy vs Jason"). But you can't keep a good bad guy down, and at the rate Hollywood is cannibalizing its horror back catalogue, we'll be seeing remakes of the remakes any day now. Directed by pop video director Samuel Bayer and written by Wesley Strick and Eric Heisserer, the new "A Nightmare on Elm Street" is actually a lot like the old one. So much so, for a while you wonder why they didn't just re-release it. (You'll wish they had.) Surprisingly, Bayer doesn't go the Michael Bay route and give it a high-gloss, ADD tempo, but in duplicating the most memorable bits from the original (the glove in the bath, for instance, and the face coming through the wallpaper), he fails to put his own stamp on it. As Freddy, Jackie Earle Haley, who was Oscar nominated for playing a sex offender in "Little Children" (and who went on to play Rorschach in "Watchmen" and the battered psychopath Noyce in "Shutter Island") finds Robert Englund a tough act to follow. Haley drops his voice an octave and comes on heavy -- this Freddy mostly keeps his quips to himself -- but he's significantly shorter than Englund, and the make-up suggests nothing so much as Ray Bolger in "The Wizard of Oz": the scarecrow who didn't even scare the crows. iReporter gives new "Nightmare" an "A" Branching out tentatively toward something new, the film toys with repressed memory syndrome and the intriguing suggestion that maybe Freddy was innocent; that he has every right to be angry about the lynch mob that incinerated him. I'll leave you to imagine how far the filmmakers go with that radical notion, but maybe a prequel would have been a more rewarding way to go? The new "Nightmare" also proudly introduces a clinical-sounding term called "micro-naps," a side effect of sleep deprivation that handily justifies more shock effects even as the number of survivors is whittled down to two (gratifyingly, they're the least synthetic of the young cast members). But is it scary? Barely. In the wake of "Paranormal Activity," Freddy's grandstanding theatrics seem pretty old hat. There is nothing about this redundant remake to give anyone sleepless nights, unless it's threat of yet more of the same old same old. Enough with the "re-imagining," Hollywood; just imagine! | Director Samuel Bayer struggles to put own stamp on Wes Craven's 1984 original .
Jackie Earle Haley, as Freddy, finds Robert Englund a tough act to follow .
In wake of "Paranormal Activity," Freddy's theatrics seem pretty old hat . |
0963c147bc9d5370ae2062863e776853744c64a7 | By . Richard Hartley-parkinson . Last updated at 9:08 AM on 17th January 2012 . A YouGov poll found that 70 per cent of Labour voters believe Ed Miliband is not fit to become prime minister . After being deemed 'too ugly' to become prime minister, Ed Miliband has been dealt another blow after it was revealed that 70 per cent of people don't believe in him. The YouGov poll gives him his worst rating since winning the Labour leadership and a sure sign that supporters are turning away from him. The shedding of support continued today after a blogger and Labour activist started trending on Twitter when he posted an article about why he recently switched allegiance to the Conservatives. Luke Bozier, a party member for five years, wrote: 'At a time when the nation needs strong political leadership, Labour offers nothing. The poll carried out for the Sunday Times showed that fewer Labour voters believe Mr Miliband is performing well compared to those who think he is doing a job. He received an overall rating of -3 points compared to David Cameron's 91 and Nick Clegg's 45 from Lib Dems. Further rubbing salt into the wounds, most people said they believe his elder brother, David, would do a better job but he has ruled out standing again. An MP was quoted by the newspaper as saying: '[David Miliband] said fratricide is one thing, double fratricide is quite another. It would destroy the party and [the brothers'] relationship.' In a scathing attack on the Labour party, blogger Luke Bozier trended on Twitter after switching allegiance . He has the right policies, and and also looks and sounds like a possible Prime Minister: 16% . He has the right policies, but does NOT look or sound like a possible prime minister: 59% . His policies are wrong, but he looks and sounds like a possible Prime Minister: 5% . His policies are wrong, and he does NOT look or sound [like] a possible Prime Minister: 11% . Don't know: 9% . Alistair Darling is the second choice for Labour voters pushing Miliband into third place with just seven per cent saying he is the best person to lead the party. Shadow home secretary, Yvette Cooper, has been touted as the favourite candidate for the job if Miliband is replaced by the time of the next election in spring 2015. Last week it was suggested by John Humphrys that Ed Miliband did not look right for the job of PM to which he replied 'I don't accept that'. However, only 10 per cent of people said they thought that Miliband was 'too ugly' for the job. The prospect of a leadership election has been ruled out at this stage, however, with some of his harshest critics saying it is too early, instead believing autumn 2013 to be the best time for change. Embattled Ed Miliband was told by Labour MPs on Saturday night to stop copying David Cameron and start showing some leadership of his own. The Labour leader sparked a furious backlash after the party abandoned opposition to the Coalition's public-sector pay freeze and refused to reverse cuts. The U-turn was unveiled by Shadow Chancellor Ed Balls, who insisted the party had to set a 'credible' alternative to the Coalition and be 'honest with the British people'. But Labour MPs accused the two Eds of caving into the Tory agenda. Labour veteran Austin Mitchell attacked 'barmy' Mr Balls's cuts somersaults and also lambasted 'weak' Mr Miliband. He told The Mail on Sunday: 'This is a desperate attempt to get respectability but it's barmy. Miliband is acting out of weakness. We are not the Government and we will get nowhere by going around wearing a hair shirt like this.' The poll was carried out just days after Miliband underwent a relaunch to answer those who doubted his abilities as leader. In a scathing attack on the Labour party, Mr Bozier writes in his blog that Yvette Cooper and Ed Balls were 'out-of-touch', Brownite career politicians. He criticises the wider party saying it has been taken over by student politicians and is unable to 'put aside its tribal prejudice and ideology'. He writes: 'Ed Miliband is a leader that Labour MPs and Labour members didn't want. He was forced upon them by the Trade Unions and like most people, I wasn't happy with the result. 'I tried for as long as I could to give Ed the benefit of the doubt. But look what it's come to, with the party and the leader now a national laughing stock. 'Rarely in British history has a leader become so quickly defined by humiliating questions about his looks and personality. On his new allegiance to the Tory's, Mr Bozier said: 'David Cameron, sensing the intellectual and political paralysis throughout the Labour Party, has picked up New Labour's baton of reform and is running with it. 'Cameron's Conservatives have again become the party of the aspirational classes.' He concludes: 'But the Labour Party - which has comfortably turned back into Old Labour - no longer speaks for this country. 'And it no longer speaks for me and the sort of Britain I want for my children. And that is why, today, I am joining the Conservatives.' | Just one in five Labour voters say they think he would make a good prime minister .
Labour activist trends on Twitter after he switches allegiance to Tories with a scathing blog of the party . |
09645091d89ba7d9591de314c4e19e1a0d962de9 | England boss Roy Hodgson has been getting some social media stick for his decision to watch Chelsea's Champions League clash with Maribor at Stamford Bridge. The only English player to start the game was John Terry, who retired from international duty in September 2012 after being cleared of racially abusing then-QPR defender Anton Ferdinand during a match. So who was Hodgson keeping tabs on at the Bridge? Roy Hodgson beams before kick-off at Stamford Bridge alongside his England assistant Ray Lewington . John Terry makes it 3-0 for Chelsea after running the length of the pitch to add the finishing touch to a counter . England's next Euro 2016 qualification match is on November 15 against Slovenia, where Chelsea's opponents on Tuesday, Maribor, hail from. They were unbeaten in eight Champions League games this season before they ventured to west London, and three of their starting XI on Tuesday were included in the Slovenia squad for qualification matches against Switzerland and Lithuania earlier this month. Mitja Viler . The left-back was at fault for the first goal as Loic Remy cut in from the right-hand side, pushed the ball on to his left foot and then curled a shot into the far corner. Viler was then unfortunate enough to turn Eden Hazard's shot into his own net to make it 4-0 shortly after the break. Subbed off in the 56th minute. Chelsea's imposing defender Branislav Ivanovic towers above Maribor's Slovenia international Mitja Viler . The left-back gets his legs tangled as Eden Hazard's effort flicks off his heel and ricochets in to make it 4-0 . Ales Mertelj and Zeljko Filipovic . Maribor's central-midfield pair were always going to struggle against the likes of Nemanja Matic and Cesc Fabregas, two of the most in-form midfielders in not just England but also Europe. Chelsea dominated the centre of the pitch as Mertelj and Filipovic failed to cope with their pace and power. The visitors also created very little going forward as their midfield repeatedly gave the ball away cheaply. So, all in all, not much to worry about for Roy. Ales Mertelj, right, struggles to get near Loic Remy, who opened the scoring for Chelsea with a curling shot . Willian flicks the ball past Maribor central midfielder Zeljko Filipovic, who struggled throughout at the Bridge . | Roy Hodgson was in attendance at Stamford Bridge with Ray Lewington .
Regular England centre-back Gary Cahill was named on the bench .
This meant the only English player that started was John Terry, who retired from international duty in September 2012 after being cleared of racism .
England youth international Dominic Solanke made his debut for Chelsea as a second-half substitute . |
0964fdd599f6239f7061a5e0bff60283b5c633a4 | Jose Mourinho should look to himself and his bosses rather than supporters if he wants to fix the atmosphere problem at Stamford Bridge. It’s true, the expectation of a comfortable win can breed complacency amongst supporters — but the club’s hierarchy have made it as hard as possible to arrest that slide. The prices — a problem across English football — have excluded a large number of Chelsea’s traditional fanbase from attending games regularly. Eden Hazard celebrates what turned out to be Chelsea's winning goal against QPR on Saturday . A single Chelsea fan before the match - but Mourinho claimed the whole match felt like the stadium was empty . For those who can shell out, anyone believed to be ‘persistently standing’ risks ejection from over-zealous stewards and letters threatening the removal of their season ticket. No cauldron of noise has ever been created by fans being forced to sit down. The travelling Chelsea support is far more vocal. Away games attract a younger crowd, with a high concentration of people who want to stand and sing. In SW6 those people are dotted all around the ground, making it hard to get an atmosphere going. It’s a great shame, because when the mood is right Stamford Bridge can really rock, with the crowd so close to the pitch. Chelsea fans were more vocal in the past - and away from home the support is always louder than the Bridge . Hazard (left) and Oscar (right) scored a goal apiece to secure three points for Chelsea . Chelsea fans carry a banner in support of Frank Lampard at their away match at Man City . Every plea fans have made to the powers that be for standing sections, greater concessions or unreserved seating has fallen on deaf ears. Mourinho himself greatly exacerbated the problem in his first spell as manager by moving the away fans’ section from behind the dugout. Opposition supporters are now housed on the other side of the ground to the vocal Matthew Harding Stand, removing opportunity for the back-and-forth so often a catalyst for a lively atmosphere. | Jose Mourinho blasted the home atmosphere at Chelsea on Saturday .
Ticket prices have excluded a large number of Chelsea's traditional fanbase .
Anyone believed to be ‘persistently standing’ risks ejection from over-zealous stewards... no cauldron of noise has ever been created sitting down .
The travelling support is far more vocal - it's difficult at home matches . |
09660d01a55289246e6d4b3c6aff37a38f4b01f3 | Alan Turing, who was instrumental in cracking the Nazi Enigma code, was found dead in 1954 at the age of 41 - reportedly from suicide . Code-breaking genius Alan Turing - played by Benedict Cumberbatch in hit film The Imitation Game - was murdered, a new book claims. The brilliant mathematician who cracked Hitler's Engima wartime code machines was found dead in 1954 at the age of 41. Author Roger Bristow claims a note from the pathologist casts doubt over the official conclusion of suicide. The post mortem report said he died from cyanide poisoning, but the note adds that: 'Death appears to be due to violence.' Mr. Bristow, a former mayor who has spent almost 30 years researching Turing and his work at Bletchley Park, said he was carrying out secret work before his death. He believes the code-cracker was killed by the FBI because he had information that would be 'extremely damaging or embarrassing.' Mr Bristow adds that Turing had been working on the top secret operation Verona, deciphering wartime radio signals to identify Russian agents in the United States. He describes how some of the agents managed to get themselves into highly prominent positions, with one even becoming a personal assistant to President Roosevelt. Turing, who was prosecuted for being gay, was found dead in his bedroom in Wilmslow, Cheshire in June 1954. Two years earlier he had been convicted of gross indecency and sentenced to chemical castration. A post mortem found traces of potassium cyanide in his body - a substance he used for his chemical experiments. Mr Bristow, a founder member of Bletchley Park Trust and former Milton Keynes mayor, said: 'I believe he was killed, perhaps by the FBI, and his death was made to look like a suicide. Alan Turing's incredible life and work at Bletchley Park in World War II has been portrayed by Benedict Cumberbatch (pictured) in The Imitation Game . Cumberbatch plays the genius mathematician, opposite co-stars Keira Knightley, Matthew Beard, Matthew Goode and Allen Leech (pictured in a scene from the film), as he cracks the Nazi Enigma code - a major factor in the Battle of the Atlantic . 'My theory is that he had stumbled upon some information that could be extremely damaging or embarrassing to certain people in America. 'His body was found on the Tuesday morning and he was buried by Wednesday afternoon. How could proper tests have been conducted in that time? 'Also there is no evidence he was depressed before his death. In fact there are reports from neighbours that he seemed cheerful. 'But the final sentence on the pathologist report says it all: 'Death appears to be due to violence.' Turing, played by Cumberbatch, dances with Joan Clarke- a cryptanalist at Bletchley Park, played by Keira Knightly, in The Imitation Game . 'We, as a nation, need that sentence explained before we can accept that one of our greatest heroes was not a victim of murder.' Turing received a royal pardon from the Queen last year and in 2009 Prime Minister Gordon Brown officially apologised on behalf of the British government for 'the appalling way he was treated' Mr. Bristow is now attempting to find a publisher for his manuscript 'Boffins, Bombs, Boats and Balloons'. | The Code-breaking genius was found dead in 1954 at the age of 41 .
Post mortem gave official conclusion as suicide by cyanide poisoning .
But a note from pathologist said his death 'appears to be due to violence'
Author Roger Bristow claims the mathematician was murdered by the FBI .
He believes Turing was killed because he found 'damaging' information . |
09675ac0981f96265fae51f1155a9537c6c50627 | By . James Nye . PUBLISHED: . 08:13 EST, 28 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 12:06 EST, 28 August 2013 . One of the two teens charged for the brutal bludgeoning to death of a WWII veteran in Spokane, Washington, has made the astonishing claim that he was buying crack cocaine from the 88-year-old and that the deal turned violent. The bizarre allegation that war hero Delbert 'Shorty' Belton was a drug dealer emerged during 16-year-old Kenan Adams-Kinard's first court appearance yesterday where he was charged with first-degree murder and first-degree robbery. Relatives of Belton derided Adams-Kinard's claims, calling them desperate and saying that Belton was senile, eccentric in his old age, but certainly not a crack cocaine user or pusher. Accused of Being a Drug Dealer: This World War II-era photo provided by Heritage Funeral Home of Spokane shows veteran Delbert Belton. The 88-year old Belton (right) was beaten to death last week in Spokane, Washington . 'That's a bunch of crock,' Belton's daughter-in-law Barbara Belton said to NBC News. 'Of course these kids are going to make excuses.' Dark past: Adams-Kinard was convicted of third-degree theft and fourth-degree assault in June . Adams-Kinard and Demetrius Glenn, who are both 16, have been charged with battering 88-year-old Battle of Okinawa veteran Belton to death with flashlights in his car outside his Eagles lodge on Wednesday after a botched robbery. Both were charged as adults and both have previous convictions for assault and were caught on security cameras in the area at the time of the killing. Glenn gave himself up immediately to the police, but Adams-Kinard went on the run for four-days and allegedly told friends during his time in hiding that the beating occurred because of a drug deal gone wrong. Police have said that they have a letter in their possession, written by Adams-Kinard to his mother, in which he claims that Belton was selling them crack cocaine. The letter said that after purchasing a 'zip of crack cocaine from Shorty,' the teens 'proceeded to sock him.' 'I took his wallet and another ounce . of crack from his pockets,' the letter said, according to the court . document. 'He was unconscious so I made sure he was still breathing, and . then I took off.' Police . have said that they seriously doubt Adams-Kinard's story and . spokeswoman, Monique Cotton said in a statement: 'We have no evidence to . support that.' Even . Glenn's lawyer, Christian Phelps, told NBC News that he was skeptical . and said, 'It doesn't seem plausible to me. I wouldn't put any stock in . it at this point.' Detained: Demetrius Glenn, left, confers with attorney Christian Phelps. He is charged with first degree murder and first degree robbery. He is being held on $2M bail and will be tried as an adult . High price: District Judge Richard Leland, said the brutality of the attack and vulnerability of the victim make the high bail proper. Glenn's, right, was set at $2 million . However, Phelps also pointed out that, 'there are no eyewitnesses and no forensic evidence that links either of the kids to the crime.' Yesterday, upon the apprehension of Adams-Kinard, police revealed the sickening brutality inflicted on the helpless 88-year-old victim. Attacked in his car on Wednesday in the parking lot of Eagles lodge, Delbert Belton was found wedged between the two front seats of his car on Wednesday and was battered so badly he sustained brain damage and had lost too much blood to survive the violent attack. Kenan Adams-Kinard and Demetrius Glenn, both 16, are accused of battering the war hero to death with flashlights after he fought back during a robbery and according to Belton's daughter-in-law 'They just kept hitting and hitting him.' 'He was an 88-year-old man,' said Barabara Belton to NBC News. 'Even if they wanted his money and he didn't want to give it to them, they didn't need to do that. 'They did a horrendous thing and they need to pay the consequences.' And speaking one day after the dawn arrest on Monday of 16-year-old Kenan Adams-Kinard following a four-day manhunt for the killing of 88-tear-old, Delbert Belton, his uncle said that living in a small town narrowed his ability to make friends. Most wanted: Police say Adams-Kinard was arrested by Spokane Police on Monday morning after a four day man-hunt . 'He hung around with the wrong people and made the wrong choices,' Odell Kinard said of his nephew, Kenan Adams-Kinard. 'It's the summer and ain't nothing to do here.' Charged with first-degree murder for the killing of Delbert 'Shorty' Belton, Adams-Kinard is due to appear in a Spokane court today, one day after another 16-year-old, Demetrius Glenn was charged as an adult and held on $2 million bail. Glenn's lawyer says he plans to plead not guilty for the murder of Delbert - who took a bullet in the Battle of Okinawa - who was clubbed to death with flashlights as he tried to stop an apparent robbery in a crime which has captured the attention of the nation. Police in Spokane said that Belton, was in his car in the parking lot outside his Eagles Lodge when the attack occurred on Wednesday night. 'The motive for this attack was robbery,' said Spokane Police Chief Frank Straub to NBC News. 'Race was not a factor. Additionally, there was no gang activity that was associated with his incident,' he added, noting that many commentators had pointed to the fact that the teens were black and the victim was white. 'These are two young men who just spun out of control.' Glenn made an initial court appearance Monday afternoon. He is charged in Spokane County District Court with first-degree murder and first-degree robbery. The charges carry a potential life sentence. District Judge Richard Leland, presiding over a packed courtroom, said the brutality of the attack and vulnerability of the victim make the high bail proper. Glenn had turned himself in Thursday . night, the same day Delbert Belton died of his injuries. The slightly . built youth gave yes and no answers to questions from the judge but . otherwise said . nothing. Defense . attorney Chris Phelps noted after the hearing that the case has gone . viral on the Internet, with many people expressing strong opinions. Watch Video Here: . Surrender: Glenn turned himself in to police custody through his lawyer . 'The evidence doesn't indicate what happened,' Phelps said, adding that witnesses only reported 'two kids running away.' Straub said it appeared that Belton fought back against his attackers, which may have increased the severity of his beating. Wanted: Police released images of two possible suspects between the ages of 16 and 19. One juvenile was arrested this morning . Suspect Number Two: Police say two teens assaulted 88-year-old Delbert Belton outside the Eagles Lodge in North Spokane Wednesday night. One teen has been arrested in connection to the crime . ‘Our information is that the . individual fought back and that may have made this, you know, a worse . situation,’ said Spokane Police Chief Frank Straub in a Monday press . conference. Straub was quick to maintain Belton’s innocence in the matter. ‘I'm not being critical of Mr. Belton,’ he clarified. ‘We certainly encourage individuals to fight back, and he should have. But it shouldn't have happened to begin with.’ While Glenn turned himself almost immediately, Adams-Kinard remained in hiding for four days as police worked with churches and the teens family to get him to surrender. 'The family was helpful. The family encouraged him to surrender. The family got the gravity of this,' said Straub to NBC News. Devastated: Daughter-in-law Bobby Belton, pictured, told of her grief at the brutal killing . Tribute: Lill Duncan takes a photo of a memorial for Delbert Belton, the 88-year-old World War II veteran who was beaten to death, in Spokane . However, Odell Kinard expressed his shock at learning his nephew has been accused of killing a man. 'It really hurt to hear that,' he said to NBC News. 'He has to take responsibility,' he added. 'But the family is praying he gets 10 years or less.' Unusually, Straub spoke of the lives of the suspects in this brutal case and the impact this crime could have on them. 'It bothers me that a distinguished World War II veteran lost his life,' Straub said. 'But the lives of the young suspects are also likely ruined,' he said. 'He came close to losing his life in service to this country in Okinawa and then he gets killed needlessly in the parking lot while he’s waiting for a friend. That’s the tragedy of this thing,' Straub said of the victim. Tribute: Friends raised a drink to Delbert Benton in the bar he was murdered outside today . 'The second piece is two young men whose lives and the lives of their families are ruined by criminal activity.' Belton was born and raised in Spokane. He survived being shot in the leg in 1945 at Okinawa, one of the fiercest battles of the war, and went on to spend 33 years working for Kaiser Aluminum before retiring in 1982. Belton was called Shorty by his friends because he was little more than 5 feet tall, his niece Pam Hansen said. | Murder suspect Kenan Adams-Kinard made the bizarre claim that he was buying drugs from 88-year-old Delbert Belton .
The 16-year-old claimed the deal he and his friend Demetrius Glenn were doing with the WWII veteran went bad and became violent .
Delbert Belton, 88, was set upon in the parking lot of the Eagles Lodge in Spokane, Washington on Wednesday night .
He died on Thursday morning in hospital after being admitted with serious head injuries .
He was allegedly battered with flashlights . |
0967da2001f605517fd1fdacc10e417d572b2744 | By . Victoria Woollaston . PUBLISHED: . 10:54 EST, 9 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 10:54 EST, 9 May 2013 . Buzz Aldrin, the astronaut who was the second man to walk on the moon, has said he wants the US to permanently 'settle and colonise Mars.' And the 83-year-old former astronaut expects it to become a reality by 2040. Aldrin made the statement in a blog for CNN and his plans to get there form the basis of his new book Mission to Mars. The second man to walk on the moon, Buzz Aldrin, wants the US to colonise Mars and believes there will be a settlement on the red planet by by 2040 . Astronaut Buzz Aldrin, lunar module pilot, walks on the surface of the Moon. It's been 44 years since the Apollo 11 landings and Aldrin thinks there has been 'too little progress' since . A group of scientists are trying to replicate what it would be like to live on Mars, by living and working in spacesuits in the Utah desert. Engineers, geologists and biologists from the Mars Desert Research Station are living in cramped conditions with limited water, electricity, food and oxygen, a vast distance from home. The 'astronauts' are a group of volunteers who are helping to discover ways to investigate the feasibility of a human exploration of Mars and use the Utah desert's Mars-like terrain to simulate working conditions on the red planet. Aldrin said: 'I have always felt Mars should be the next destination following our landings on the moon. 'I believe this nation should commit itself, within two decades, to commencing American permanence on the planet Mars.' Aldrin added that the advances made by Nasa's Curiosity Rover and the pictures it has beamed back from the red planet have added to public interest. 'The dream of reaching the red planet looks like it is finally getting closer to becoming a reality.' It has been 44 years since the Apollo 11 moonwalk and Aldrin thinks there has been 'too little progress' in getting people to settle on other planets. This image from NASA TV was one of the first images sent from the Curiosity rover after it successfully landed on Mars in August 2012. Aldrin believes that the discoveries made by the rover are key for humans looking to settle on the red planet . It has been 44 years since the Apollo 11 moonwalk and Aldrin thinks there has been 'too little progress' in getting people to settle on other planets . He said he has devised a method to get . there with cycling orbits of spacecraft on continuous trajectories . between the Earth and Mars. Aldrin believes this is the most economical transportation system concept between the two planets. He believes that using this capability, humans could arrive and settle on Mars between 2035-2040. Aldrin's plan is outlined in his new book, Mission to Mars: My Vision for Space Exploration out now. He continues: 'We are at an inflection point. 'We can choose to do what is easy, what is safe. 'Or we can choose to make a difference. The choice to me is absolutely clear. 'There is no other choice than to commit to Mars. 'Humans need to explore, to push beyond current limits, just like we did nearly 44 years ago that enabled me to stand at Tranquility Base on the moon. 'In reaching outward with method and intent to Mars, America is once again in the business of a vital, meaningful and future-focused space exploration program.' More than 78,000 people recently applied to go on a Dutch reality TV show in which they would move to Mars permanently. The company, called Mars One, believes it will have a colony on the planet by 2023. | Former astronaut has devised a transport system to get to and from Earth .
Aldrin thinks 'too little progress' has happened since the Apollo 11 landing .
He expects humans to colonise the planet between 2035 and 2040 . |
0967e1285a95cfea097ed6e826ff9dc431d2991e | By . Lydia Warren and Rachel Quigley . PUBLISHED: . 10:14 EST, 27 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 10:14 EST, 27 May 2013 . Tragedy: Gabrielle Molina, 12, took her life after enduring relentless online bullying, family said . Police have confirmed that the 12-year-old girl who was found hanging in her Queen's home last week committed suicide because she was being bullied at school. Gabrielle Molina was a seventh grader at a local middle school where her classmates would call her a slut and a whore, her family said last week. Police commissioner Raymond Kelly recently confirmed that she left behind a suicide note that referred to the bullying. Cops are investigating whether Gabrielle was a victim of online harassment as well as face-to-face abuse and took two computers from her home. Gabby’s fellow students at Jean Nuzzi Intermediate School 109 in Queens who sent the messages are currently under investigation, according to the New York Daily News. Her 15-year-old sister . found the young girl hanging in the bedroom they shared at their home. She said later that Gabrielle told her about the bullying but made her swear to secrecy that she would not tell their mother. However her parents knew she had been having some trouble with bullies at school, including a fistfight earlier this spring. But the full extent has only emerged after her death. Her father George told the New York Post that . they called her a slut and a whore and told her she looked like she . suffered from Down syndrome - and that a recent breakup pushed her over . the edge. 'I was trying . to comfort her because she was getting weak,' said the distraught . father, who was seen sobbing outside the family's home on Thursday. 'I . wanted to make her happy.' She . was also teased after a sickening video entitled 'Gabby's Fight' appeared on YouTube, friends said. It showed the girl, who was barely 5ft tall, being beaten up by a former friend. George . Molina said that the school failed to address the incident quickly . enough and the footage was not immediately removed from the internet. Loss: Schoolmates bullied the young girl for her looks and because she self harmed, her friends said . After the fight a school counselor set up a meeting with Gabby's parents and between the girls, who made up, her mother said. Fellow students also knew that Gabby was self harming, and also teased her for that, friends told the New York Daily News. A close friend of Gabby's, Samantha Martin, told the Daily News that she cut herself a lot and some of it stemmed from problems at home. 'They had a lot of problems, they fought a lot,' she said. 'But she always seemed happy. (But) people knew she was cutting herself.' But Schools Chancellor Dennis Walcott . said that a preliminary investigation did not show any . serious bullying problems at the school - which its students denied. Gabby 'said that she wanted to move . schools because she felt uncomfortable. People wanted to jump her and . people bothered her,' her friend Samantha Martin, 12, told the Daily News. Scene: Gabby's sister returned to their family home on Wednesday and found the girl hanged in their room . Police questioned students at the school last Thursday but no charges have been brought. Gabby's mother said that the girl had not come down for school in the morning on Wednesday and that her door was locked, which was not unusual. Her grandparents knocked on the door throughout the day but, when she did not respond, they thought she was sleeping. But when her sister returned home from school, she forced the door open and found her body. In a letter she left behind, Gabby apologized to her family - her sister, 21-year-old brother Geonel, and parents George and Glenda - for taking her life. Family members said she had wanted to . become a lawyer. Her aunt, Irma Molina, told the Post that she . didn't understand the young girl's death. 'She's very quiet, very friendly,' she said. 'She wanted . to dance and sing. She’s so young.' 'Cruel': Students at her school, IS 109, posted a video of her being beaten up online, friends said . Neighbors also told the Post of their shock at the death of the young girl, whose family has lived at the home for nearly 10 years. 'They're just a wonderful family,' said a neighbor. 'It's just so sad. I don't know how they are going to get by.' The National Crime Prevention Council notes that 43 per cent of teens are subject to cyberbullying, and there have been recent, high profile cases. In one heartbreaking story, 15-year-old Felecia Garcia killed herself last October after fellow students allegedly posted a video of her having sex with members of the football team. She was branded a 'slut' and humiliated by her classmates online, eventually taking her life by jumping in front of a train. | Police confirm Gabrielle Molina left a note explaining she had been taunted .
Her sister, 15, forced open a bedroom door and found her body .
Classmates teased her over her looks and because she self harmed, and put a video on the internet showing her being beaten up, friends said . |
0968fb50d3a3900246e4f594dc48eb98036ebd7e | By . Steve Doughty . PUBLISHED: . 09:21 EST, 29 November 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 20:08 EST, 29 November 2012 . Prime Minister David Cameron said controlling immigration helped Britain compete in the 'global race' Migration into Britain has seen the biggest fall in 20 years, official figures revealed yesterday. A total of 536,000 foreigners came to live here in 2011, 42,000 fewer than the year before. The drop was the biggest since immigration went down by 61,000 during the 1991 recession. The numbers entering Britain were the lowest since 2004, when hundreds of thousands of Eastern European workers were allowed in. The main reason for the cut in numbers was a dramatic reduction in those arriving on student visas. Ministers hailed the figures as a major step towards achieving the Government’s aim of reducing immigration to the levels of the 1990s. The key net migration figure – the number added to the population after both immigration and emigration have been counted – dropped by nearly 25 per cent from 242,000 to 183,000. Students coming in to join courses at further education colleges went down by 67 per cent, while those going to English language schools fell by 76 per cent. However the number of foreign students going to British universities went up by 1 per cent. Student numbers have come down following limits on study visas for those living outside the European Union and a crackdown on bogus colleges used as routes to cheat the immigration system. New methods, such as interviews to check the English language skills of prospective students, were introduced last year. The number of student visas issued was 26 per cent down on the previous year. There have also been tighter controls on the issue of work visas for low-skilled workers from outside the EU. The figures are a relief to Home Secretary Theresa May and the Prime Minister, who have promised to reduce net immigration to below 100,000. Immigration Minister Mark Harper said: ‘This is a significant fall in net migration and the total number of visas issued is at its lowest since 2005. ‘This shows we are bringing immigration back under control. Our tough policies are taking effect and this marks a significant step towards bringing net migration down from the hundreds of thousands to the tens of thousands by the end of this Parliament. ‘At the same time, we continue to attract the brightest and best: these figures show that there has been a small increase in the number of sponsored student visa applications for the university sector – and a further increase in student visit visas. It’s clear that international students continue to come to the UK’s world renowned universities.’ Graph shows annual long-term migration estimates for the UK between 1991 and 2011 . Graph shows changes in immigration from the five most common countries into the UK over the past five years . Tory Party chairman Grant Shapps added: ‘Conservatives in Government are committed to getting immigration under control. ‘This big fall in net migration shows that the tough steps we have taken to reduce the uncontrolled immigration that Labour presided over are working.’ The results won approval from Migrationwatch, the think-tank which has led criticism of high immigration. Its chairman, Sir Andrew Green, said: ‘At last we can see some light at the end of the tunnel. We can now see the first effects of the Government’s measures to reduce immigration. There is a distance to go but they are on the right track.’ But Sarah Mulley, of the left-leaning Institute of Public Policy Research, said: ‘This fall in net migration has been driven by a significant fall in the number of foreign students coming to the UK. Clampdown: The drop was driven by an eight per cent fall in the number . of people coming to the UK to study, with 213,000 students arriving this year . compared to 232,000 last year . ‘Steps to reduce abuse of the student visa system are welcome, but if the Government’s net migration target is to be met, there also needs to be a dramatic fall in the numbers of genuine foreign students.This will come at a significant economic cost.’ Emigration from Britain helped drive down the net migration total. In the year to the end of March, 353,000 people left to live abroad, compared with 336,000 in the previous year. Study was the main reason for immigration, but there was an 8 per cent drop in the number of those coming here for formal study, with 213,000 students arriving this year compared to a peak of 232,000 in the year to March 2011. Yesterday it was revealed that more than 150,000 suspected bogus students from outside the EU have been allowed to stay here since 2009 despite border officials being warned they may have breached their visas. | Minister hails success of government's 'tough' new policies .
213,000 students arrived this year compared to 232,000 last year .
Emigration increases from 336,000 to 353,000 as more Britons work abroad . |
096935783a453ad29959cf4ed24b84c0c4d0ade7 | (CNN) -- Former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger underwent heart surgery to replace an aortic valve at a New York hospital Tuesday, according to a hospital statement. Kissinger, 91, served as national security adviser and secretary of state during the Nixon administration. He remained secretary of state through the short Ford presidency and held the adviser position for part of that administration. "He is resting comfortably," a New York-Presbyterian Hospital statement said. Kissinger has a history of heart trouble, including undergoing a triple coronary bypass in 1982 and an angioplasty procedure in 2005. Born in Germany, he came to the United States with his family to escape Hitler's Nazi regime in 1938. Kissinger became a U.S. citizen and joined the U.S. Army in 1943. He joined the Harvard University faculty in 1954, but he soon began consulting with the U.S. State Department and Pentagon on national security matters. Nixon took Kissinger with him to the White House in 1969 to serve as his national security adviser, a job that included the initiation of Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) with the Soviet Union. Time magazine named Nixon and Kissinger as the magazine's Men of the Year for 1972. Kissinger shared the 1973 Nobel Peace Prize with Vietnamese revolutionary Le Duc Tho for helping establish a cease-fire in Vietnam. Le Duc Tho declined the honor. | "He is resting comfortably," the hospital said.
Kissinger served as national security adviser and secretary of state during the Nixon administration .
He was also President Ford's secretary of state . |
09694f344f9810625ee9f74bdd697ad623026040 | (CNN) -- The news about "Clerks III" just keeps getting better. Writer and director Kevin Smith recently gave an update on the project while speaking with "Clerks" star Jeff Anderson (aka "Randal") on his podcast, saying that if all goes well, "Clerks III" will have a June start for production. Smith wrapped up the script for "Clerks III" last May, but struggled with finding support. After confirming that he nailed down financing earlier this year, Smith said during his podcast that "there's plans in motion," and that Jay (Jason Mewes) and his own Silent Bob will be in the third installment of his 1994 cult classic. "I don't have the reservations (for 'Clerks III' that ) I had for 'Clerks II,'" Anderson chimed in. "Only because the big thing was 'Clerks,' it was the protective nature of that. We've moved past that and fans have moved past that. What 'Clerks II' did was just follow these guys and it was fun to catch up with them. 'Clerks III,' where are they, what are they doing? ... I don't think we have to worry about tainting anything." Anderson has also read the script, and added that the third "Clerks" is a mix of the previous two. "I like the script; it's being introduced to these characters that are friends. ... (It's) a very different movie and that's what I like about it," Anderson said. "'Clerks' to me was a gritty movie. 'Clerks II' became this brighter movie. 'Clerks III' to me feels somewhere between I and II. It feels a little gritty and we go back to the beginning stages, but we do see the progression." Smith likes to describe it "as kind of the 'Empire Strikes Back' of 'Clerks' movies," the filmmaker said. "I can't wait to be on set ... (and) see these dudes for one more time." | Kevin Smith gives an update on "Clerks III"
The filmmaker says it should go into production in June 2015 .
His original "Clerks" is a cult classic . |
0969dae2a158ddfecbf0ede0adcd8b9b4a072167 | By . Zoe Szathmary . Hong Kong airline Cathay Pacific Airways has been announced as the winner of the Airline of the Year 2014 award. The airline received the top honor as part of Skytrax's World Airline Awards. The prize was presented at the Farnborough International Airshow by CNN correspondent Jim Boulden. Winner: Ivan Chu of Cathay Pacific Airways is seen holding the Airline of the Year 2014 award . We're number one! Cathay Pacific Airways, whose planes are seen in this September 2013 file photo, was voted the Airline of the Year . 'Of all the sellers, Cathay were the best performer across all types of travel,' Skytrax's CEO Edward Plaisted said to CNN. 'Some airliners were very good in economy, others in luxury, but [Cathay Pacific Airways was] top or near the top in all categories,' he said. 'The World’s Best Airline award is . particularly important to us because it was decided by the votes of . close to 19 million travellers from around the world. Thank you to . everyone who voted for us!' Cathay Pacific Chief Executive Ivan Chu said in a release. Chu also said the company 'will not rest on [its] laurels.' 'We will continue working to provide a superior travel experience that will make the people of Hong Kong proud,' he said. Qatar Airways took second place in Skytrax's Airline of the Year list. Singapore Airlines, Emirates, and Turkish Airlines came in third, fourth, and fifth, respectively. ANA All Nippon Airways, Garuda Indonesia, Asiana Airlines, Etihad Airways and Lufthansa rounded out the top ten in descending order. Video Source YouTube . Flying high? Qatar Airways took second place . Not to be forgotten! Lufthansa rounded out Skytrax's Airline of the Year top ten rankings . American airlines were also outperformed by both Air Canada and WestJet in SkyTrax's list of Best Airlines in North America. Air Canada ranked number one in that list, followed by WestJet and Virgin America. They were followed by Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Porter Airlines, jetBlue Airways, Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and American Eagle Airlines, respectively. Similarly, the US didn't make it into Skytrax's Best Airports in the World 2014 list, which was published earlier this year. Singapore Changi Airport took the number-one spot in that list. The only North American airport to be included was Vancouver International Airport, ranked at number nine. Requests for comment to Skytrax and Cathay Pacific Airways from MailOnline were not immediately returned. 1. Cathay Pacific Airways2. Qatar Airways3. Singapore Airlines4. Emirates5. Turkish Airlines6. ANA All Nippon Airways7. Garuda Indonesia8. Asiana Airlines9. Etihad Airways10. Lufthansa . (source: worldairlineawards.com) | Hong Kong airline Cathay Pacific Airways has been announced as the winner of the Airline of the Year 2014 award .
The airline received the top honor as part of Skytrax's World Airline Awards at the Farnborough International Airshow .
No American airlines cracked the top ten .
- and they were also outperformed by both Air Canada and WestJet in .
SkyTrax's list of Best Airlines in North America .
Similarly, the US didn't make it into Skytrax's Best Airports in the World 2014 list, which was published earlier this year . |
096ae12ccdff3b1905c52239ea5bda02e95a8d96 | Actor Ralf Little has been criticised after accusing Clarke Carlisle of not telling the full story . Actor Ralf Little has accused his former friend, Clarke Carlisle of not telling the 'full story' in his interview about the depression that led to his suicide attempt last year. The Royle Family star said Carlisle was going to 'get away with it again' in reference to his interview about a battle with depression that caused him to step in front of a lorry days before Christmas. Little tweeted a picture of the article, commenting: 'Oh dear. Looks like Clarke Carlisle's going to get away with it - AGAIN. #Teflon #nonstick.' His comment was met with a barrage of criticism from Twitter users, who accused him of being 'crass' and 'insensitive'. The actor wrote: 'Seems people want context about previous tweet. So let me say, I know the full story and it's not what's portrayed in the media. That's all.' Little and Carlisle had become friends in the early 2000s, but are thought to have fallen out when the footballer took the actor's bank card to fill Little's car with petrol. Instead, according to Carlisle's autobiography, he used the card to fund a drinking spree. Little did not refer to the incident, thought to have taken place in 2003, but admitted on Twitter that he should not have used such a forum to make the comment. Instead he wrote at length on the TwitLonger site to explain his view. The actor explained that he and Carlisle 'have history', and that while he wishes Carlisle a strong recovery he does not feel sad for him any more. However, he added he felt 'sad, and maybe a little angry' for Carlisle's wife Gemma, the footballer's children, and the lorry driver . He added that the former footballer had been in touch with him to offer 'a retrospective apology over things that went on a long time ago', but said he had been 'drained' of sympathy for him. Little wrote: 'There comes a point where it's just frustrating to witness someone constantly hammering the pattern of destruction for those around - and I was once one of those around - only to see the destructive force make a moving and sincere apology ... then do it again.' Clarke Carlisle was pictured for the first time since leaving hospital after after a collision with a lorry . Little felt 'sad, and maybe a little angry' for Carlisle's wife Gemma (pictured), his children, and the lorry driver . He added: 'Though, as a final thought, I would say again, I’m a fool for forgetting that Twitter is not, and never will be, the place for a comment like that. It’s too reductive and simplistic, and yes, without context, I can see it would seem insensitive and crass. Not my intention.' Carlisle later responded to the actor's tweets using his wife Gemma’s account. He wrote: 'Hi Ralf, it’s Clarke here. I have seen you once in 10 years, and that was to apologise for my repulsive behaviour as a young man. 'I know you have you're right to your opinion, but I've got to say, I sincerely hope that you're not the same person you were 10 years ago, as I very much am not. I hope you are well, happy and enjoying your excellent career. I pray depression never bites x' In his autobiography, You Don't Know Me, But...: A Footballer's Life, Carlisle wrote about his friendship with Little. He explained in his book that he had befriended Little and his two housemates - a radio producer and band manager - after realising that he needed to make friends outside of football in order to keep his heavy drinking a secret from his team-mates. Describing Little as a 'very self-assured guy', Carlisle wrote that for his new friend 'everything had an element of competition, whether it was drinking, dancing, women, Pro-Evolution Soccer, income, level of fame, everything.' The actor had posted a series of Tweets including one which read 'Oh dear. Looks like Clarke Carlisle's going to get away with it - AGAIN' He added: 'This triggered two things within me. Firstly, I wanted to be liked by all of these guys. This meant that I would say yes to everything. If there was a party I was there, a drink to be had I was there, an event to be seen at I was there. I wanted to be a part of the group. Secondly, I wanted to win. This may sound pathetic, but it is where I was at. I wanted to be cooler, I wanted to party harder, I wanted to be richer (or look richer if I wasn't), I wanted to impress him and everyone around us.' Carlisle also said Little was 'desperate to be a footballer and genuinely believed he was good enough,' which had in turn spurred him on to live the actor's lifestyle and be a professional footballer. Speaking of the bank card incident he wrote: 'It was so bad in my drinking days that at one point Ralf lent me his bank card to get some petrol for his car, but I took it to go on a bender for a couple of days, helping myself to cash out of his personal account. In his autobiography Carlisle had written that Little, pictured at a Soccer Six event, was 'desperate to be a footballer and believed he was good enough' 'I still cringe to this day when I think back to some of those times when I was at my most desperate. 'It is part of my recovery programme to try to make amends to all those who you have wronged on your journey. 'I have repeatedly repented to all of my housemates, some of whom accepted it and some of whom didn't. I'm fine about that - just because I apologise doesn't make everything better. I had to face the consequences of my actions, which in this case meant I lost several friendships that I will never get back.' Carlisle was left critically injured when he was struck by a lorry near his home on the morning of December 22 on the A64, near York. He had to be airlifted to Leeds General Infirmary, with North Yorkshire Police confirming that an investigation was under way after a collision that ‘involved a male pedestrian and a lorry’. Speaking to the The Sun newspaper he said he had thrown himself in front of the lorry in an attempt to take his own life, adding that his life had spiralled out of control after being told by ITV he was losing his £100,000-a-year Champions League pundit role. He says he went straight to a casino and blew in one night what money he and his wife had before, only hours later on December 20, being charged with drink-driving. Carlisle, who is also a former chairman of the Professional Footballers' Association, was due to appear at Highbury Magistrates' Court, in north London, last month to face the drink-driving charge but the hearing was adjourned until March. ‘I had to die,’ he said. ‘This wasn’t escaping or running away. This was the perfect answer. It made everyone happy and it ticked every box.’ He said he had sat in the police cell and concluded that he could not let his children ‘have a criminal father’. He said he walked out of the police station having decided he ‘had to die’. Carlisle says he then vanished for 40 hours, sleeping rough while planning his suicide. Having found a spot on the A64, he then stepped over a barrier and jumped towards an oncoming lorry ‘like a shoulder charge’. Carlisle said he had wanted to emulate Little's lifestyle. The actor is pictured with Steve Coogan and Johnny Vegas at a film premiere in 2002 - around the time he was friendly with Carlisle . ‘I opened my eyes and I could see my hands in front of me and there’s blood dripping down them. I thought, “You’re kidding me”.’ At hospital it was discovered he had suffered only cuts, bruises, internal bleeding, a broken rib and a shattered left knee. He said he had ‘overwhelming feelings of shame, guilt and embarrassment’ On Christmas Day, Carlisle was admitted to a psychiatric unit in Harrogate and placed on suicide watch. He is now having counselling, with The Sun claiming the police are taking no further action over the A64 crash. For confidential support call the Samaritans in the UK on 08457 90 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or click here for details. | Royle Family star tweeted Carlisle had 'got away with it again'
He was criticised for his 'crass and insensitive' comments .
Little and Carlisle had been friends in the early 2000s .
Carlisle wrote in autobiography he borrowed actor's bank card for petrol .
But instead he used the card to fund a drinking spree .
Footballer later used wife Gemma's Twitter account to respond to Little .
He wrote that he had apologised for his 'repulsive behaviour'
Former footballer has given an interview about his suicide attempt . |
096b0034a1834df5374d60c5b7c18162c21218ff | By . Ruth Styles . PUBLISHED: . 04:16 EST, 25 September 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 05:41 EST, 25 September 2013 . A morbidly obese bus inspector who tipped the scales at 31st 7lb has shed more than half his body weight after being shamed for taking up multiple seats on the tube. Philip Kettle, 52, from Romford, was carrying around the equivalent of 128 bags of sugar in weight after eating unhealthily for almost two decades. But after warnings from doctors and daily angry stares from commuters, Philip decided to overhaul his diet and now weighs a trim 14st 7lb. Slimline: Bus conductor Philip Kettle poses in one of his old XXXXXL blazers after losing a colossal 17st . Big change: Philip now weighs just 14st 7lb but used to weigh a mighty 31st 7lb and was morbidly obese . 'When you are that size you become . withdrawn, withdrawn from society, you don't want to go out to things . because people will look at you,' Phillip revealed. 'You . become very self conscious that you are being scrutinised. Looks are . one thing but the emotional side also takes a right pounding. 'I was ashamed. I was not proud of what I had done to myself over the years.' At his biggest, Philip had a 60in waist and struggled with simple activities such as climbing the stairs and keeping up with his five-year-old grandson. 'I was eating chocolate bars and various junk food all the time - I have a very sweet tooth,' he added. 'But my health started to deteriorate. I had very high blood pressure. It was quite a shock to hear what the GP said. I was at that point in my life that I realised I had put my family through a lot by being this way.' Particularly hard for Philip was the realisation that he might not live to see his grandson grow up, which made him increasingly desperate to shed the pounds. 'I was very overweight throughout my daughter's lives but now I have a grandson,' he said. 'I . didn't want him remembering his grandfather like that. I couldn't do . anything about the past but I could so something about the future. Relieved: Wife Denise, 52, is thrilled that her husband has finally managed to shift the pounds . Unhealthy: Philip was warned that he might not see his grandson grow up unless he lost weight . 'I . had just carried on and put off doing something about it for years. But . it got to a point where I could not carry on. It was becoming too much.' Philip's solution was to join Weightwatcher's where he was swiftly put on a programme that replaced daily English breakfasts and carb-laden sandwiches with healthy salads, fruit and vegetables. Snacking was banned, while weekly weigh-ins helped to keep him on track as the pounds slowly but surely dropped off. He also started walking everywhere and two years later, he now weighs just 14st 7lb and has a trim 34in waist. 'My . blood pressure is back to normal, I am physically fit and I'm off all . my medication - the doctor said I have got my health back,' said Philip. 'I used to go . everywhere in the car, even short journeys, but now I walk everywhere. I . walk to work and as much as I can and only use the car once a week. 'I'm even doing a 26-mile walk for charity, which before was something I could never of imagined doing. 'Everything has changed now. I have . changed so much as a person and really come out of my shell. I've never . been so happy. I look at myself in the mirror now and I can't believe . it. 'My wife says I now . turn heads for the right reasons. There are so many things I can do now . that I would not do before.' Happy ending: Philip says his impressive weight loss has made a huge positive difference to his life . BreakfastFull English breakfast . LunchTwo large sandwiches and a cake. SupperLarge pizza . SnacksSweetsTea and a packet of biscuits.Chocolate . BreakfastScrambled egg with a crumpet . LunchMixed salad . SupperLow fat curry sauce, chicken breast, rice and chick peas. SnacksSix pieces of fruits a day.Tea, coffee and diet drinks. | Philip Kettle, 52, from Romford, weighed 31st 7lb at his heaviest .
The bus inspector has now lost 17st and weighs a slim 14st 7lb .
He was shamed after receiving cross looks from commuters .
Doctors also warned he was at risk of serious health problems .
Swapped snacking and junk food for three healthy meals a day . |
096b18f6a45f3b7aa0fa87bb41221d8fed98b9f8 | By . Martin Domin . Follow @@martin_domin . Kell Brook’s world title fight with Shawn Porter has been scheduled for August 16 at the StubHub Centre in California. The Sheffield welterweight has been the mandatory challenger for the IBF belt for more than 18 months but injury has prevented him from taking his chance. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Kell Brook: I'm ready for Shawn Porter fight despite delays . Undefeated: Kell Brook hasn't lost in 32 fights . Gaining momentum: Brook beat Alvaro Robles back in March . He saw a fight with former champion Devon Alexander fall through three times before Porter beat Alexander to win the strap. The 26-year-old from Ohio then successfully defended it against Paulie Malignaggi in April. Champ: Shawn Porter (left) stands in Brook's way . Brook, who has been training in Spain, is undefeated in 32 fights and was most recently in action against Alvaro Robles in March. The StubHub Centre is home to MLS sides Los Angeles Galaxy and Chivas USA and can hold 27,000 people. | Sheffield fighter faces American at the StubHub Centre in California .
Brook has been mandatory challenger for more than 18 months .
Special K is undefeated in 32 fights ahead of world title fight . |
096b6fb2d4b7d6c84695194497f583f552cb1f63 | (CNN) -- News of the deadly Boston Marathon bombings that killed three people and injured 178 others Monday has understandably dominated CNN's coverage this week. You can follow the live updates here, as events unfold. Two men believed to be suspects in the case have been identified. One died of injuries suffered during a confrontation with police Friday, and the other was arrested after a standoff with police, causing jubilation in Boston. But while all eyes were on the Boston suburb of Watertown, there was plenty going on elsewhere. Here are five stories you may have missed: . 1. A deadly wave of bombings blasted Iraq Tuesday, ahead of elections there Saturday. The attacks took place in at least six provinces: Baghdad, Anbar, Babel, Kirkuk, Salaheddin Diyala, and Nasriya, police officials across the country told CNN. Shiite neighborhoods, police checkpoints and political offices were among the targets. At least 42 people were killed, with more than 257 others wounded. 2. The founder of the French company that made controversial breast implants, went on trial over the scandal. Proceedings against Jean Claude Mas, who founded Poly Implant Prothese, or PIP, and four others connected to the company continued Thursday, a day after the trial opened in Marseille. Mas was arrested in January 2012 in connection with an investigation after the 2010 cancer death of a French woman with PIP implants. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing, insisting that his products were perfectly safe. 3. A powerful earthquake struck Pakistan's border with Iran, Tuesday, killing 34 people and injuring 80 others in Pakistan, sources say. Officials earlier said that dozens more were injured in both countries. The U.S. Geological Survey said the earthquake was preliminarily measured at 7.8 magnitude. The Iranian Seismological Center said the earthquake had a magnitude of 7.5. Army doctors and Frontier Corps paramilitary forces took part in rescue efforts in Mashakel, according to a Pakistani official involved in relief efforts. 4. A Pakistani court confined the country's former president Pervez Musharraf to his home Friday. The move came a day after he made a swift exit from an Islamabad court after a judge revoked his bail. The development is the latest legal setback to Musharraf since the former military ruler returned to Pakistan last month, five years after he resigned as president and left the country, to fight a series of court cases against him. He had been seeking to run in upcoming elections. 5. New Zealand's parliament voted to legalize same-sex marriage Wednesday. The country became the first in the Asia Pacific region to pass the legislation, ahead of Australia, whose gay community feels the country is falling behind in terms of gay rights. The New Zealand Parliament passed the bill by a convincing margin of 77 votes to 44, amending the Marriage Act to permit gay, lesbian, transgender, bisexual and intersex couples to marry. Overjoyed supporters of the legislation in the public gallery burst into song in celebration. | A deadly wave of bombings blasted Iraq ahead of elections on Saturday .
Trial of controversial breast implant company founder under way in France .
A powerful earthquake struck the Pakistan-Iran border region .
Pakistani court confines former president Pervez Musharraf to his home . |
096c37a5c0b16703258f5d7c3893cfd1dc0524e1 | Grand Designs presenter Kevin McCloud is to host the first television appeal ever made by the charity set up in the memory of Stephen Lawrence. He will hail the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust for helping young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to ‘smash through barriers’ in pursuit of their dream careers. The trust, founded by the murdered teenager’s mother in 1998, already has a proven track record of helping students into architecture, the profession which Stephen had wanted to enter since the age of seven. Grand Designs host Kevin McCloud, pictured right, is to present the first television appeal ever made by a charity set up in memory of Stephen Lawrence, pictured left . It has awarded over 100 architecture bursaries and so far many students have gone on to qualify as architects while the others have succeeded in associated areas. With a staff of just six and entirely funded by donations, the Trust has already reached more than 1,500 people attending workshops at the iconic Stephen Lawrence Centre, providing events, courses and programmes to help them to aim high and overcome barriers to employment- and encourages young people to strive to become lawyers and journalists too. Mr McCloud, who has presented the unusual homebuilding show Grand Designs on Channel Four since 1999, said: ‘What I find extraordinary about the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust is that they allow people to realise their dream and to smash through barriers.’ He will present the Lifeline Appeal, a monthly slot on the BBC in which a well-known personality introduces the vital work of a charity they care about and appeals for donations, on Sunday (Feb 22) at 4.45pm on BBC1. It will be repeated on BBC2 on February 25 at 1pm on BBC2. The appeal features Eniola Asaolu who grew up in a tough area of North London and faced the choice of either joining a gang or becoming a victim of one until his fortunes changed when he won a place on a Stephen Lawrence Scholarship scheme at top City law firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer. It also tells how the trust helped Lisa Basu overcome the financial obstacles of an architect’s seven-year training. She couldn’t afford materials for her models while at university and was using pizza boxes, but thanks to a bursary from the trust was able to complete her studies. Mr McCloud said: ‘What I find extraordinary about the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust is that they allow people to realise their dream and to smash through barriers.’ Baroness Lawrence said: ‘We are here as a catalyst so we can support them in whatever profession they want to go into.’ A-level student Stephen was stabbed to death aged 18 in an unprovoked racist attack at a bus stop in Eltham, South East London, in 1993. He excelled at art and maths and got himself a placement at a big London architect firm before his murder. The Mail campaigned to bring the killers to justice and published a landmark front page accusing five men of the murder. Two were convicted in 2012. Last month, the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust and the Mail announced two journalism scholarships. You can donate at: . https://www.justgiving.com/4w350m3/donation/direct/charity/122488#MessageAndAmou nt . From 5pm tomorrow (Feb 22): call 0800 011 011 (free on BT landlines; mobiles and other networks may vary), online at www.bbc.co.uk/lifeline or send donations to The Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust, Freepost, BBC Lifeline Appeal. | Kevin McCloud to host first TV appeal for Stephen Lawrence charity .
Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust helps disadvantaged young people .
The trust was founded by the murdered teenager's mother in 1998 .
Trust has already reached more than 1,500 people attending workshops .
Also providing events, courses and programmes to help young people . |
096ce72f4a98cd610cca5f68c4bf9ac14cd4d8fd | By . Zoe Szathmary . A Pennsylvania waitress received a major surprise when a regular customer offered to pay about $20,000 for her nursing school tuition - and has already agreed to cover her masters degree, too. Melissa Manier, 25, was working at the Peachtree Restaurant and Lounge trying to pay off a student loan when regular Benjamin Olewine walked in the door. Olewine, 92, happens to be Chairman Emeritus at food company Sysco Central Pennnsylvania, and is a known philanthropist. He told CBS News that he felt compelled to help Manier. Scroll down for video . Hard worker: Melissa Manier, pictured, was working as a waitress when customer Benjamin Olewine offered to cover her tuition for nursing school . Generous: Olewine, chairman emeritus at Sysco Central Pennsylvania, is a known philanthropist . 'You get to know [the waitresses]. You get to know their backgrounds. You get to know their problems and I just needed to help her,' he said. Though his bill at the restaurant was reportedly a mere $3.45, Olewine offered much more to the struggling waitress. 'I said, "Melissa, I'd be happy to pay your tuition." And that's exactly how it happened,' Olewine told CBS News. He said he asked her 'two or three' more times for the tuition bill so he could cover it. Manier is now a registered nurse - and as fate would have it, works at the Benjamin Olewine Spine, Bone, and Joint Institute at Pinnacle Health's General Osteopathic Hospital. Manier told ABC27 she still finds thinks it's weird to ask Olewine to cover expenses. Reunited: Though Manier no longer works at the Peachtree, she and Olewine still see each other there . Twist of fate: With her debts paid by Olewine, Manier is now a registered nurse in a hospital wing named in his honor . 'Anytime I get a bill that he helps me with, I still feel strange asking him because he really doesn't know me,' she said. 'It's just crazy.' She also cried when asked by the station about the significance of Olewine's generosity. 'While I was in school, after he'd started paying for me, my dad passed away,' she told ABC27. 'I just keep thinking of him right now. He'd be so shocked and just so happy for me.' Though Manier has not yet earned her bachelor's, Olewine has already offered to cover a master's degree. When asked about his decision, Olewine simply told CBS News, 'Well, I'm known as a big tipper.' | Melissa Manier, 25, was working as a waitress when regular customer Benjamin Olewine, 92, offered to cover her student loan for nursing school .
Olewine is Chairman Emeritus at Sysco Central Pennsylvania and is a known philanthropist .
Debt-free, Manier is now a registered nurse and works in a hospital wing named after Olewine . |
096cf8b7c30d9ad17d7f6a418d7205b4e9e5ad9b | Climbers and trekkers travelling to the Himalayas could soon be required to take GPS tracking units with them, following the country’s worst ever trekking disaster. Nepalese officials are planning to introduce new rules, improve weather forecasts and better monitor the movement of tourists and local guides after at least 41 people were killed last week when a deadly blizzard and avalanches swept through the mountains. Tourism Department official Tulasi Gautam said tourists visiting the country’s popular mountain trails will be required to take trained local guides, and will have to rent a satellite navigation unit to help authorities trace them in case of an emergency. Nepal's Annapurna Circuit, a 140mile collection of mountain trails, is hugely popular with trekkers and climbers . He said the government plans to announce the new rules before the next trekking season in the spring. Officials say 41 people, including foreign tourists and local guides, were killed last week and more than 500 stranded trekkers were rescued after becoming trapped in a snowstorm in the Mustang, Manang and Dolpa districts north of Kathmandu. The area is hugely popular with tourists and on Sunday Nepalese officials were forced to close a section of the popular Annapurna trekking circuit because new groups of hikers had continued to pour into the area where most of the victims died. The snowstorms were caused by cyclone that hit the Indian coast a few days earlier. Hikers were stranded when the weather conditions deteriorated rapidly. A Nepalese Army helicopter rescues survivors along the Annapurna trail where at least 41 people were killed following snow storms last week . Rescue members carry the dead bodies of trekkers from the Thorung La mountain pass in Nepal, which was hammered by severe snowstorms and avalanches . Most of the victims were on or near the Annapurna trekking route, a 140-mile collection of trails through the mountain range. Many were caught on the Thorong La pass, one of the highest points on the circuit. However, experts have dismissed the idea of introducing the GPS systems as a ‘knee-jerk reaction’. Simon Lowe, managing director for the UK-based Jagged Globe mountaineering company said they would not prevent more disasters from occurring in Nepal. ‘Technology alone is not a solution to the problem,’ he said. ‘GPS systems often don’t work in harsh conditions anyway. ‘In this situation getting lost was not the problem, it was the fact that the climbers and their guides went out in a raging storm. ‘There needs to be better training and education in place for both the trekkers, local guides and porters on the mountains so that decision making is improved. ‘High-tech gadgets aren’t required to get weather forecasts. Long-wave radio is available throughout the mountains and which is capable of providing accurate weather forecasts. ‘Trekkers with little experience need to make sure they are hiring guides with sufficient training, knowledge and ability to draw upon in the event of an emergency. Tour operators can charge up to £1,800 for a three-week trek around the Annapurna circuit . Nepal's Tourism Department said tourists visiting the Himalyas will be required to take trained local guides, and will have to rent a satellite navigation unit to help authorities trace them in case of an emergency . ‘There needs to be a full public enquiry as to what went wrong, and no knee-jerk reactions’. Up to 12 Britons are still unaccounted for following the tragedy. Half of the dead were Nepali porters, guides and cooks, many of whom did not have any warm weatherproof coats or boots to protect them, something which has angered rescue leaders who claim Nepalese tour guides died because they were poorly equipped. They also suggest that foreign tourists were favoured in the rescue mission. Captain Adhikari, the Nepalese Army rescue leader who led more than 70 hikers to safety following the storm, said local victims had been wearing causal clothes, including flip flops and trainers. He told the Daily Telegraph: ‘The worst thing was seeing the equipment and gear of the Nepali porters and guides because it meant they were dead, but they were not well-equipped. ‘The Nepalis I saw were wearing normal dress, some of them in slippers, some had coats and some didn’t. They did not have proper clothes or protection from the snow...this could be a factor in why so many Nepalis died.’ Tour operators charge up to £1,800 for a three-week trek around the Annapurna circuit, but Captain Adhikari suggested that some porters earn as little as £9 a day. His comments were supported by Baburam Bhandari, the Nepal government’s chief district officer in charge of the rescue effort in Mustang, where most of the victims were found dead. ‘There was no preparation,’ he said. ‘Many trekkers that came into the storm arrived without planning. ‘Their porters had no trekking shoes or coats. They were in sports shoes and normal clothes because they’re poor - it is one of the causes of their deaths. 'Some of them died because they were too cold - it was freezing snow, five or six feet deep.’ Keshav Pande of the Trekking Agents Association of Nepal said his group offers low cost clothing and equipment rental for porters and guides but many of them believe they do not need them. Foreign trekkers often hire their own guides directly, rather than through established trekking companies, and are focused on keeping their costs down. ‘If the group is organised they have all the equipment but the tourists want cheaper, they get someone from the street to guide them. They want cheap, cheap, cheap’ he said. | Nepalese tourism officials plan to introduce new rules to monitor tourists .
It follows country's worst trekking disaster which killed at least 41 people .
Tourism Department say trekkers will also be required to take trained guides . |
096da80b46fadda3447a02dbe92e01e22494ef78 | By . Chris Pleasance . PUBLISHED: . 15:03 EST, 8 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 16:06 EST, 8 January 2014 . A motorist who hit and killed a delivery man has walked free from court after claiming he was dazzled by the sun shining in his eyes. Phillip White, 52, was accused of being 'on automatic pilot' when he hit Nigel Gutteridge, 61, as he unloaded wood from his lorry, pinning him against the back doors. White, who lives just yards from the accident in Tiverton, Devon, was driving to work at the time and claimed to be travelling at 25 miles an hour, despite his van being found in fourth gear. Not guilty: White collapsed in the dock after being found not guilty today at Exeter Crown Court . During the trial Mr Richard Crabb, prosecuting, asked him: 'You were on automatic pilot, making a journey you have done many times before?' He said: 'I had seen the sun shining down the road before but never as bright as that morning. I had never known it that bright before. 'I put my visor down but can't remember where I was when I did so. I have asked myself a thousand times why I didn't see the lorry, but I never saw it. 'I got into my van that morning, got out onto the road and I hit the lorry. That is all I can remember. 'I don't know. I'm sorry. I never saw the lorry until I hit it.' The jury also heard evidence from PC Philip Rowan-Smith who said he had recreated the journey the next day and found that he had to slow down due to bright sunshine. The prosecution argued that if White had been blinded then he should also have slowed down, but no tyre marks were found at the scene and witnesses said they had not seen White use his brakes. Prosecutor Richard Crabb said: 'Witnesses don't describe seeing any braking or swerving. He said he had been blinded by the sunlight, which was rising in the east in front of him. 'He had driven the road a thousand times and he must appreciate that the sun might be a problem at that time in the morning. 'He should have seen the lorry and driven around it and if he was dazzled by the sun, he should have slowed down.' Fatal: Mr White hit Mr Gutteridge just off of Lea Road after leaving his house on Barle Court for work. Mr Gutteridge died instantly when he was pinned to the back of his lorry . Mr Gutteridge, from Thelbridge Cross, in Witheridge, was a former director of a tool hire firm and was semi-retired, only working for the deliver company part-time. Gutteridge had just got out of his cab on April 10 2012 to start unloading his lorry when he was hit and died instantly. White collapsed in the dock of Exeter Crown Court today as the not guilty verdict was read out by the jury. Judge Phillip Wassall said: 'This is a tragic event whereby a man lost his life. My sympathies go to Mr Gutteridge's family.' The case is not the only one in which a driver has pleaded not guilty, claiming the sun was in their eyes. In November last year a jury failed to reach a verdict in the trial of 22-year-old Lauren Paul, from Hampshire, who killed lollipop man Raymond Elsmore as he was escorting a pregnant woman across the road. Mr Elsmore died of head and chest injuries after being hit by Ms Paul at 3pm on December 5, 2012. Ms Paul claimed she had been blinded by sunlight at the time and that she was also trying to clear condensation from her front window. The prosecution have asked for a retrial at a date yet to be fixed. | Phillip White, 52, found not guilty of death by dangerous driving .
Nigel Gutteridge, 61, died after being pinned to the back of his lorry .
White claimed he could not see because the sun was in his eyes . |
096e39f8980c7229e69c93f9de070cda2fce7d11 | Mirka Federer perched on a bench next to Court No 4 a fortnight ago and took the chance to add to the family album. Using her phone she snapped away, smiling and waiting for the right shots. Neither of her two sets of twins were around, nor were many others. Just the greatest player in the history of tennis and Stanislas Wawrinka, his Swiss compatriot and hitting partner that day. So she clicked away. Roger Federer, worth 17 Grand Slam titles and an estimated £140million, likes such keepsakes. These next couple of years are the final throes for a man one month short of his 33rd birthday, who recently told his Swiss biographer of his wish ‘to be 25 again so I had another 10 years of tennis’. On form: Federer fist pumps after winning his quarter-final match on Centre Court . Holding things together: Federer's wife, Mirka, looks after their young children . He had a smile on his face as he said it, just as he did when he joked to the same author that he might one day return to Wimbledon as a fan, camping in a tent and waiting in the queue for tickets. The smiles, according to those who know him, are the answers to questions of what has motivated him to continue during his two-year Grand Slam drought, with a legacy supposedly at stake and his ranking slipping. He fell to eighth, his second-round loss here last year perhaps the biggest indignity. Why hang on as a shadow of your former self? On Thursday, he was back at Court No 4, a Wimbledon semi-finalist having a hit before stepping in front of Milos Raonic on Friday afternoon. The practice session was tame; the crowd enormous. When it was over, five security guards formed a protective cordon around the ageing tennis player with the dodgy back. Occasionally, he stopped his escort for a high five with the fans, a great of sport having the time of his second life. Practice makes perfect: Fans flocked to get a glimpse of Federer on court four on Thursday . Dominant: Federer is back to his best after a nightmare 2013 . How he has fought his way back into prominence — and the top four — after the nightmares of 2013, is a tale of nannies, coaches and physiotherapy; it’s a comeback supported further by private planes, Mirka’s diary and, simply, a love for the game. Tim Henman is one of his closer friends in tennis and has watched as Federer recovered from his 2013 season, in which serious back injuries limited him to a single title — his worst return since 2001. ‘It is amazing to me,’ Henman said. ‘I was a similar age when I stopped. For the first time ever it was my job not my hobby. 'For me, when I look at him I see how much he enjoys it. I honestly think it is about his personal enjoyment of tennis. The challenge was last year. That is when you, or he, would really question it. But he has the hunger. Support: Tim Henman (left) has backed Federer to win Wimbledon . ‘I was speaking recently to Josh Eagle (Australia’s Davis Cup coach) and he was telling me Nick Kyrgios went to practise with Federer for a week in Switzerland. Apparently his work rate was incredible, the intensity of it. That is a guy who has nothing to prove. Those are the standards he sets.’ They are standards maintained in the organisation of his private life, driven by a wife who is said to apply extreme precision to the running of his domestic affairs. When Federer travelled to the French Open three weeks after the birth of his second set of twins, it is understood all four children joined him in Paris. A private plane and airstrip are understood to have been used, with five nannies part of the entourage. It is believed to be a regular arrangement. ‘Mirka keeps the whole thing together and oversees the organising of their life,’ said Rene Stauffer, his biographer. Mental toughness: Federer has hired Stefan Edberg as his coach . ‘Roger loves everything in tennis. He says when he stops playing he’ll come back here one day and wants to be a supporter. He joked he wants to sleep in a tent and queue. But Mirka is the person in the background who I think keeps it going smoothly for him now.’ On the court, Federer is now using a bigger racket for a greater margin of error and has hired Stefan Edberg as a coach to freshen his mental approach. His schedule was also reworked. It is understood Federer is worth £600,000 a time on the exhibition circuit, which is how he spent his off-season in December 2012. Last winter, he went to Dubai to train. ‘I believe I worked the hardest from the top eight in the off-season,’ Federer told Sportsmail earlier this year. Next up: Milos Raonic stands between Federer and a place in the final . But can he win another Grand Slam? It is a tough ask for a father of four, as John McEnroe illustrated this week. ‘I found it extremely difficult to juggle the responsibilities and joys of children,’ McEnroe said. ‘With trying to be a good father and trying to stave off that inevitable decline, I didn’t do nearly as good a job as Federer does.’ Indeed, since 1990 only eight Slams have been won by fathers. Twice it was Federer. With two more children it is tougher again. But when has Federer ever been like the rest? | Swiss star had a nightmare 2013 but is back on top form in SW19 .
Federer, 32, is bidding for his 18th Grand Slam title this week . |
096e6a1c93314dc879b2487d94312d927977cc54 | WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Two federal agencies warned consumers Friday not to eat raw Nestle Toll House refrigerated cookie dough. Consumers are advised to throw out all prepackaged, refrigerated Nestle Toll House cookie dough products. The company said it is recalling an estimated 300,000 cases of the dough as a precaution after reports of food-borne illness in 28 states. There are concerns that the premade dough may be contaminated with the bacterium E. coli 0157:H7, which causes abdominal cramping, vomiting and diarrhea, the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. Young children and the elderly can suffer more serious symptoms. Nestle issued a statement saying, "While the E. coli strain implicated in this investigation has not been detected in our product, the health and safety of our consumers is paramount, so we are initiating this voluntary recall." According to Nestle spokeswoman Laurie MacDonald, raw dough was one of the things the sick people reported eating. "The health and safety of our consumers is our No. 1 priority," she said. "We felt the best thing to do is a voluntary recall." She said the company was informed by the FDA Wednesday night "and immediately took action." "We really want to remind consumers that raw cookie dough should not be eaten," she said. Since March, the CDC says, 66 people have become sick in 28 states after eating raw cookie dough. Twenty-five people were hospitalized. No one has died. The FDA and the CDC say people who have become sick after eating refrigerated Toll House cookie dough should contact their doctors. They advise consumers to throw out all prepackaged, refrigerated Nestle Toll House cookie dough products. Retailers and restaurateurs should not sell or serve any Toll House cookie dough products, the agencies said. The company said the market share for Nestle Toll House refrigerated cookie dough for the most recent 52-week period was 41 percent. The recall does not include already-baked Toll House cookies, varieties of Toll House morsels, chocolate baking bars or cocoa or Dreyer's and Edy's ice cream products with Nestle Toll House cookie dough ingredients. | 300,000 cases of Nestle Toll House refrigerated cookie dough being recalled .
66 cases of food-borne illness reported in 28 states; dough is one common link .
Dough may be contaminated with E. coli, which causes gastric symptoms .
Nestle: E. coli not detected in product; recall is safety precaution . |
096eee5d1ae08657fc1b87e6271102f38edb606c | By . Sarah Griffiths . Google has started to remove search results, following last month's 'right to be forgotten' ruling. Europe's top court ruled that people have the right to have 'inadequate' and 'irrelevant' results about them wiped from the web, which led to the tech giant being bombarded with requests. Searches for people’s names now include a message at the bottom of the results page that says results ‘may have been removed under data protection law in Europe’. This warning appears on all results, regardless of the name that has been searched for, and is not an indicator that the specific person has requested links be deleted. Google has started to remove search results, following last month's 'right to be forgotten' ruling. Users now see a message that reads results 'may have been removed' (pictured). This warning appears on all results, regardless of the name that has been searched, and is not an indicator they have requested links be deleted . A Google spokesman told MailOnline: ‘This week, we’re starting to take action on the removals requests that we’ve received. ‘This is a new process for us. Each request has to be assessed individually and we’re working as quickly as possible to get through the queue. ‘We’ll continue to work with data protection authorities and others as we implement this ruling.’ Last . month’s decision by the Court of Justice of the European Union, which . affects 500 million citizens, requires that search services remove . information deemed 'inadequate, irrelevant or no longer relevant' - and . failure to do so can result in fines. European . citizens can submit take-down requests directly to internet companies . rather than to local authorities or publishers under the ruling. If a . search engine elects not to remove the link, a person can seek redress . from the courts. Last month's decision by the Court of Justice of the European Union requires that search services remove information deemed 'inadequate, irrelevant or no longer relevant' and failure to do so can result in fines. The ruling was made by the European Union Court of Justice, pictured . Under the European Data Protection Regulation, Article 17 includes the ‘right to be forgotten and to erasure’. Under Article 17, people who are mentioned in the data have the right to ‘obtain from the controller the erasure of personal data relating to them and the abstention from further dissemination of such data.' This particularly relates to data about the person when they were a child, when the data is no longer relevant or necessary for the purpose it was collected, the person who owns the content withdraws their consent, the storage period has expired, or if it was gathered illegally. The EU defines ‘data controllers’ as ‘people or bodies that collect and manage personal data.’ The EU General Data Protection Regulation means any data controller who has been asked to remove data must ‘take all reasonable steps, including technical measures' to remove it. If a data controller does not take these steps they can be heavily fined. Last month, a MailOnline investigation uncovered that a man convicted of possessing child pornography, a misbehaving politician seeking re-election and a doctor with bad reviews, were among the flood of people who contacted Google demanding that their internet histories be deleted. Legal experts have commented that the criteria for determining which take-down requests are legitimate, is not completely clear from the EU court’s decision. Google has therefore had to painstakingly sort through the requests and last week sent notifications to people who requested a removal, asking them to bear with the search engine. It began removing the first results under the European data law yesterday, and plans on ramping up the speed of the process when it is sure that the systems put in place are effective. Google is starting its work now to show good faith in complying with the ruling, which it did not greet with enthusiasm last month. Following the ruling, Google Executive Chairman Eric Schmidt told the company’s annual shareholder meeting: 'There's many open questions.’ 'A simple way of understanding what happened here is that you have a collision between a right to be forgotten and a right to know. From Google's perspective that's a balance. 'Google believes having looked at the decision, which is binding, that the balance that was struck was wrong.’ The company is now keen to be transparent about the modification of its search results, which is why it is showing the message: ‘Your results may have been modified under data protection law in Europe,’ for all name search results, expect for celebrities. This is so that notices do not appear next to certain individuals, but the notice could evolve over time. Google is also notifying people who made ‘right to be forgotten’ requests that have been turned down, as well as those where more information is required. The tech giant is not new to notice-and-takedown removals, to do with defamation, for example. It also has experience dealing with take-down requests in its YouTube video website, which has a process to remove uploads that infringe copyrights. But the ruling marks an entirely new process for search engines. Google is the dominant search engine in Europe, commanding about 93 per cent of the market, according to StatCounter global statistics. Microsoft Corp's Bing has 2.4 per cent and Yahoo Inc has 1.7 per cent. A spokesman for Microsoft's Bing told MailOnline: 'We’re currently working on a special process for residents of the European Union to request blocks of specific privacy-related search results on Bing in response to searches on their names. 'Given the many questions that have been raised about how the recent ruling from the Court of Justice of the European Union should be implemented, developing an appropriate system is taking us some time. We’ll be providing additional information about making requests soon.' | Move follows Court of Justice of the European Union's ruling last month .
It requires search services to remove information deemed 'inadequate, irrelevant or no longer relevant' - or face penalties .
Google has started removing search results of some names this week .
Users are alerted by a message that says results 'may have been removed'
This warning appears on all results regardless of the name searched . |
096f58c0f6dba9891e6b0b13e457c4dd4002da6d | The sister of Australian jihadist Mohamed Elomar was stopped by border police from leaving Australia this week. The 29-year-old was flagged up at Sydney Airport trying to board a 6am flight to Dubai on Tuesday with her two children when she came to authorities attention. Border officials detained the woman, who has not been named, and questioned her and she was later released, reports Daily Telegraph. Scroll down for video . Mohamed Elomar said: 'Islamic State still holds its position either by victory or martyrdom' Mohamed Elomar, a former boxer from western Sydney who left to fight in Syria late last year, poses with severed heads . The woman was reportedly trying to leave Sydney Airport using her own passport and she was stopped because she was listed a 'person of interest'. She was released but was stopped from leaving Australia. Elomar, a former boxer from western Sydney who left to fight in Syria late last year, has been disowned by his family after learning of his brutality as a member of IS. His father, Mamdouh Elomar, said his son made him sick: 'When I see him on the news, it's very bad. I'm very shamed. I'm not proud.' Mohamed Elomar's father Mamdouh said his son 'made him sick' and he was 'not proud' Mamdouh said has not talked to his son in two years after a falling out his son Mohamed who worked as a surveyor or draftsman at the family business. 'I cannot understand what my son did, it makes me want to vomit,' he said. The Elomar patriarch is also friends with community leader Dr Jamal Rifi Mohamed threatened the doctor on Twitter after Dr Rifi condemned him. Mamdouh said every time he saw his son on the news he could not help but feel ashamed by Mohamed's actions. Sources say Elomar's sister was on a no-fly list because of the relationship to her brother, who has boasted of his brutal terrorist activities in Iraq and Syria. Elomar has including posting images of himself holding the severed heads of Syrian soldiers. Friends of Elomar's sister reportedly said border control she was not bound Iraq or Syria, where her brother is fighting with the Islamic State. 'This was a mistake. She was not going there. She was travelling for other reasons,' one friend told Daily Telegraph. Elomar is believed to have travelled to the Middle East with his sadistic sidekick Khaled Sharrouf, who slipped out of the country last December using his brother's passport. The pair have since become the evil face of social media, regularly posting images of their atrocities. When it was discovered he had gone to Syria, his sister had insisted he had travelled there for humanitarian purposes. Sources claimed the detection of Elomar's sister at Sydney Airport demonstrated the success of heightened security measures at the airport which have closed the gaps in the system which had allowed Sharrouf to slip out undetected. Mohammad Ali Baryalei, a former Kings Cross bouncer who played a bit part in Underbelly, has been identified as a senior military commander in the Islamic State. He recruited Elomar into ISIS . Khaled Sharrouf is also wanted by the Australian Federal Police for alleged terrorist activities in the Middle East after he fled the country in December with Elomar on his brother's passport . Elomar has warned on Facebook that the Islamic state will hold its position in Iraq and Syria 'by victory or martyrdom' and dismissed US military operations in Iraq and Syria. When asked about media reports that Islamic State fighters are trying to return to their home countries, Elomar told News Corp: 'Maybe it's true, maybe it's propaganda. But Islamic State still holds its position either by victory or martyrdom. Besides, what can a bunch of planes do?' Elomar, using the Facebook pseudonym 'Al Australi Abu Hafs', also claimed that American air strikes only 'hit civilians, not the Mujahideen'. He then began referencing Chapter 9 of the Quran, which contains the 'Verse of the Sword' passage terrorists often cite to justify jihad. 'And when the forbidden months have passed, kill the idolaters wherever you find them and take them prisoners, and beleaguer them, and lie in wait for them at every place of ambush. 'But if they repent and observe Prayer and pay the Zakat, then leave their way free. Surely, Allah is Most Forgiving, Merciful,' the verse reads. A spokesperson for the Minister for Immigration and Border Protection told Daily Mail Australia: 'The Government will not be providing a running commentary on these matters. 'The Government will take the steps necessary at our borders to protect our national security. 'At times, this will mean that national security takes priority over the convenience of the traveller. 'Our officers do not stop travellers indiscriminately.' Omarjan Azari (pictured) has been charged with a serious terrorism related offence and allegedly plotted to behead a member of the public in Martin Place . On Thursday at least 800 officers from AFP and NSW Police were involved in Australia's biggest anti-terror raids. Omarjan Azari appeared in court on the same day charged with a conspiracy to prepare a terrorist attack on Australian soil. He was denied bail and will reappear in court on November 13. He is the second man charged so far after police arrested 15 people in the raids. According to court documents, police intercepted a phone call three days ago between Omarjan Azari and Mohammad Ali Baryalei, who is alleged to have recruited half of the 60 Australians fighting in the Middle East. The account said Baryalei ordered him to carry out an attack, which Sydney Central Local Court heard was 'clearly designed to shock, horror and terrify the community'. 'Afghanis are traditionally more interested in study than sport,' the accused's cousin Rami Azari told Daily Mail Australia. 'There was another Greek kid who wasn't as good but Omarjan knew he wanted it desperately and so Omarjan gave up his place. 'He was always interested in justice and fighting against injustice. 'Maybe [that's what got him into trouble.' 'I don't believe that he made the phone call [making the beheading threat],' Omarjan's cousin said. 'He'd stopped using his phone because he was being followed by police and ASIO.' Omarjan's uncle, University of Western Sydney lecturer in Afghani studies, Dr Ehsan Azari, said his nephew was 'very pious'. 'But if he is truly involved in this it is someone else who has convinced him, turned his mind,' he told Daily Mail Australia. 'He was not a scholar, or very good at school.' Prime Minister Tony Abbott increases Australia's terrorism threat level from medium to high and warns Australians to expect increased security on September 11. Australians will see more security at airports, ports, military bases, government buildings, public landmarks and major sporting events. It's the highest alert level in more than a decade and means the chances of a terror strike is now considered 'much more likely'. | Elomar's sister, who has not been named, is listed as a 'person on interest' to the police .
The 29-year-old was with her two children on Tuesday when she was trying to catch a flight out to Dubai .
Friends say she was not leaving to fly to Syria to join her jihadist brother .
She was questioned and released by officials but stopped from leaving the country .
Elomar has warned the Islamic state will hold its position in Iraq and Syria 'by victory or martyrdom . |
096fb4a6df33a35a8a4c28cf6707d6093b8fb483 | (CNN) -- Along the Rust Belt and in cities dotting the Northeast and Upper Midwest, Catholic communities are mourning the loss of parishes. It's a five-year trend of sweeping church closures that most recently hit Cleveland, Ohio. St. James parish in Lakewood, Ohio, is slated to close. The interior replicates a 16th-century Sicilian cathedral. Wally Martens, a Cleveland native, can look out his kitchen window and see the spiritual home that has served his family for five generations. St. Ignatius of Antioch has been with him and his loved ones through life and death. "It's the place where most of us were baptized, most of us got married, most of us graduated from grade school and some of us were buried," Martens, 68, said of the west side urban parish that serves 1,200 households. To find out that the building is set to be shuttered is "like losing somebody in your family." Earlier this month, Bishop Richard G. Lennon of the Diocese of Cleveland, which serves more than 750,000 Catholics, announced that 29 parishes will close and 41 others will merge. The reconfiguration plan, which will effectively cut 52 parishes in the current tally of 224, is scheduled to go into effect by June 30, 2010. "Closing a parish is very emotional," Bishop Lennon said in a written statement. "I have personally experienced the closing of my own childhood parish in Boston, which members of my family helped establish in 1914. ... I pray that my decisions will serve the needs of this Diocese and its people." Parishioners speak out on closings » . Other cities that have had waves of closures have included places as various as Camden, New Jersey; Allentown, Pennsylvania; and New York City. All of this comes at a time when the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life reports that Catholicism in America has lost more affiliated members than any other faith tradition. There are reportedly 67.1 million Catholics in the U.S., according to The Official Catholic Directory 2008. Compared to the 2007 number of 67.5, that's about a 400,000 decrease in one year. And the Pew Forum found that approximately a third of its survey respondents who were raised in the Roman Catholic Church no longer attend the church. What drove the decision to close parishes in Cleveland were population shifts to outlying areas, financial strains that have 42 percent of parishes "operating in the red" and priest shortages, diocese spokesman Robert Tayek explained. The bishop, he said, is trying to find "an equitable solution." But the announcement has raised many questions. Among them: What happens to the struggling neighborhoods that have come to rely on outreach and programs offered by some of these inner-city parishes? "Too many bishops are treating parishes as if they were Starbucks franchises," said Sister Christine Schenk, a Cleveland-area nun who's been fighting for nearly two decades to institute change in the church through her organization FutureChurch. "It's about more than money. It's about mission to the people," she said. "This isn't what Jesus would do." The Rev. Bob Begin of Saint Colman couldn't agree more. "The founder of our church started his mission by saying, 'I came to bring good news to the poor,'" said Begin, who described his parish as serving about 1,300 people in a community where the average income is below $20,000. Saint Colman, which is slated to merge with another parish elsewhere, gets daily knocks on its doors from nearby residents, many of them immigrants from 25 different countries, who are in need of all kinds of assistance, he said. "If this parish weren't involved in bringing good news to the poor, I would not spend a lick of energy trying to keep it open," the pastor said. "But because it is bringing good news to the poor, then I have a responsibility to guard and defend this mission against anyone who threatens it." His parish and others affected by the recent announcement had until 5 p.m. Friday to file an appeal with the diocese. According to The Plain Dealer, which conducted a survey of the parishes, at least 11 had filed as of Friday morning. The diocese itself refused to comment on numbers. For those who didn't file, the bishop's decision is final. But if what happened in Boston, Massachusetts, is any indication, no parish should count on the appeal working. Bishop Lennon came to Cleveland from the Archdiocese of Boston, where he oversaw the reorganization and closure of parishes and came under harsh criticism from many. One such critic was Peter Borré, chairman of the Council of Parishes, a Boston-based advocacy group for imperiled parishes. In 2004, within months of the Archdiocese of Boston announcing it would pay a settlement of $85 million to more than 500 alleged sex abuse victims, 83 parishes were put on the chopping block, "which was a head spinner," Borré said. In the end, because of his organization's relentless efforts, Borré said, only 60 parishes were cut. His group coordinated around-the-clock vigils or sit-ins that are ongoing, four and a half years later, in five Boston-area parishes. He also has led the charge to navigate the appeal process for nine parishioner groups that have now taken their battle all the way up to the Apostolic Signatura, or, as Borré called it, the "Vatican Supreme Court." The assumption is that the highest level of the Vatican will deny the appeals this spring, but Borré said it is important to him and the others to fight as far as they can go. "Other than vigils, this is the only step still open to us," he said. "Secondly, we are the lead dog on this sled. We are the first that has experienced this phenomenon, and we have made it a self-appointed task to let the rest of America know what to expect." As of Friday morning, eight Cleveland parishes had reached out to Borré for language to help in their appeals. Others likely drafted letters of their own. But some affected parishes had no intention of fighting. Ray Daull, 68, a deacon at Christ the King in Cleveland Heights says a merger, which will combine his parish with three others, is a good thing. It'll be sad to see his church of 52 years go, but given its deficit and shrinking attendance, with a merger, "We will have more resources ... and the money can go into doing our work," he said. But for parishes such as St. Ignatius of Antioch, the one Wally Martens can see from his window, accepting the end is not yet possible. "There was a general gasp, and then sadness turned to madness," the Rev. James McGonegdal, Marten's pastor of 20 years, said of the announcement he made at Mass on March 15. "Some of the parishes knew they'd be closing, whereas for St. Ignatius and a couple other parishes, it was almost like a sudden death. You grieve in a different way." A standing-room only crowd poured into the parish last Sunday to show growing support. Martens said in a week's time, $900,000 had been pledged to finance the church and send a message to the diocese. For Martens' 92-year-old mother, Pauline, pondering life without her parish is unthinkable. For most of her life, it's the only one she's known. "I just thought the church would go on forever," she said. "I expected to be buried from there. But I guess the way things are going, I just don't know what'll happen to me." | Parish closures hit Catholic communities across the Northeast and Upper Midwest .
Diocese of Cleveland is most recent one to announce sweeping changes .
Parishioners worry about the inner-city poor that rely on church outreach .
"This isn't what Jesus would do," says a nun-turned-activist . |
096fec64a2aa863784127f7125a1cebc9d146b13 | By . Nick Enoch . PUBLISHED: . 04:19 EST, 31 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 22:36 EST, 31 December 2013 . A customer who popped out for a lunchtime snack got more greens than she bargained for after finding a dead frog in her salad. The Wall Street Journal employee had visited the Pret a Manger on Sixth Avenue/47 Street in Manhattan yesterday to get what she assumed would be a regular Albacore Tuna Nicoise Salad. But in addition to the tomatoes, tuna, egg and olives, there was an extra ingredient: the small amphibian, almost camouflaged among the salad leaves. A Wall Street Journal employee found a dead frog in a Tuna Nicoise Salad she bought from a branch of Pret A Manger on Sixth Avenue/47 Street . Kathryn Lurie, digital features editor at the WSJ, posted a photo of the novel salad on behalf of her startled co-worker who bought the meal and did not wish to be identified. Lurie told Gothamist that her colleague had started the meal at her desk and was 'pretty shaken' to discover the two-inch long green-brown creature. A spokesman for Pret said: 'At Pret A Manger, we take issues like this very seriously. 'Our lettuce is sourced from farms that do not use any pesticides on its produce, therefore organic matter does very rarely manage to pass through our production process. 'We are currently looking into this issue to make every effort that this does not happen again.' Ellen Roggemann, vice president of brand marketing for the company in the U.S., told the WSJ that the 'handmade natural food' sold by the chain is often made from organic ingredients. The manager of the Pret branch in Manhattan (above) has since apologised and given the customer a refund, plus a voucher for a free lunch . She added that this could be partially to blame for the frog in the salad. Ms Roggemann said: 'We don’t use any pesticides with our greens and they go through multiple washing cycles. An unfortunate piece of organic matter has made its way through.' The manager of the branch has since apologised and given the customer a refund, plus a voucher for a free lunch. And as for the frog: it lives on, as it were, in meme form - including one showing the poor little critter wearing a festive woolly hat. ... and here's a live one in a bag . Last September, a woman discovered a live frog in a bag of washed salad she bought . from a high-end supermarket. Christina . Carrington, 50, had already eaten some of the salad leaves before her . youngest daughter, Daniela Toale, noticed the amphibian lurking in the . bag. The frog was found in a bag of mixed leaf salad bought from a branch of Waitrose in Southampton . The frog had survived despite being trapped in the plastic packaging for more than 24 hours. Mrs Carrington, a health care . manager from Chandler’s Ford near Southampton, Hampshire, bought the . mixed leaf bag from her local branch of Waitrose. She . ate some of the leaves for her lunch, but the green and brown frog was . only spotted when Miss Toale, a 20-year-old university student, prepared . dinner that evening. | Journalist discovered creature in Tuna Nicoise Salad in Manhattan branch of fast food chain . |
096fed183954af54803727fde91aa3fe4d30e4c4 | Oscar Pistorius could face another murder trial after South African authorities admitted they had 'an appetite' to challenge his conviction on a lesser charge. Prosecutor Gerrie Nel is holding urgent meetings with the country's most senior legal experts to seek support of a possible appeal. Professor James Grant, who was one of the first to be consulted, is urging Mr Nel, to have Pistorius' case looked at again and offering support to make the case for a murder conviction. Scroll down for video . Oscar Pistorius was handed sentenced to five years in prison for the shooting of girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp . Pistorius leaves court and heads to prison after receiving five year sentence for killing Steenkamp . 'We desperately need another look at this case – there should be an appeal and I have agreed to assist with it, ' Professor Grant said. The disabled sprinter is just three days into a five year jail sentence for the culpable homicide – or manslaughter – of Reeva Steenkamp. Under sentencing guidelines, the 27 year old could spend just ten months behind bars and be allowed to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest. Today, the National Prosecuting Authoriy confirmed it now had an 'appetite' to appeal Judge Thokozile Masipa's decision. 'We have always stated first and foremost that we disappointed with the conviction,' spokesman Nathi Mncube said. 'There is an appetite to appeal, and we have 14 days to consider the law and ensure the facts and the law allow us to appeal,' In order for the verdict in Pistorius' case to be challenged, the earlier case would also have to be appealed. Above, the athlete holds the hands of family members as he leaves court following his sentencing . Professor Grant said he thought an appeal was now 'more likely than not', but it would not be straightforward. The high profile nature of the Blade Runner's trial had raised questionable legal precedents that academics argued against for years, he added . A ruling on a case heard before South Africa's Supreme Court of Appeal more than 30 years ago set a precedent that now limits the state's right of appeal. In order for the verdict in Pistorius' case to be challenged, the earlier case would also have to be appealed. Pistorius' lawyers were due to visit him today at Kgosi Mampuru jail, pictured, to ensure he is getting all the medical support – for his disability and his fragile mental health – that he needs . There was widespread criticism of Judge Masipa's acquittal of Pistorius on a murder charge last month – including by Professor Grant, who said it highlighted the illogicality in the interpretation of criminal negligence and criminal intent in key cases on which the judge based her ruling. In her judgment explaining why she could only convict him on culpable homicide, or manslaughter, the 67 year-old judge acknowledged that a 'reasonable' person with Pistorius's disabilities would have foreseen that shooting into the door may have killed the person inside. However, she said South African legal precedents warned against automatically assuming that because a perpetrator 'should have' foreseen the consequences of his actions that he actually did. She said that the prosecution had failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt that the double amputee foresaw the fatal consequences of his actions when he shot at the door, meaning she could not convict him on a murder charge. 'These issues have demanded attention for decades, and now thanks to the Pistorius trial, they have been brought to the attention of a lot of people. 'Resolving these issues will benefit everybody – no matter how much they have paid for their legal teams.' Pistorius' lawyers were due to visit him today at Kgosi Mampuru jail to ensure he is getting all the medical support – for his disability and his fragile mental health – that he needs. With the state looking increasingly like they are not prepared to let Judge Masipa's verdict lie, the disgraced athlete will come under pressure to build a fresh 'war chest' for the legal battles ahead. The National Prosecuting Authoriy confirmed it had an 'appetite' to appeal Judge Masipa's, pictured, decision . At his sentencing hearing, his lawyer, Barry Roux, told the court that his 'broke' client was already struggling to pay legal fees incurred since the Valentine's Day shooting of Miss Steenkamp, 29. It would take at least a year for any appeal in his case to reach a higher court, Professor Grant said. The national prosecuting authority have until Monday 3 November to make their final decision. Pistorius' team could also appeal his conviction or sentence, but Arnold Pistorius, the track star's uncle, told reporters that his nephew was embracing his period in jail as an opportunity to 'pay back to society'. | Prosecutors have met with a criminal law expert to discuss an appeal .
Oscar Pistorius was give a five-year prison sentence on Tuesday .
If found guilty of murder, he would face a minimum of 15 years in prison . |
0970a04aa65b63f306f475aadafe9ef8d33864d1 | By . Steve Doughty . The historic national census is to move online to save the taxpayer . almost £400 million, national statistics chiefs said yesterday. The population count, first carried out more than 200 years ago, will . drop the requirement that every home and individual in the country must . fill in a paper form detailing their lives. Instead the headcount . will be carried out over the internet, with paper forms available only . to those unwilling to use computers or smartphones to make their return. The historic national census is to move online to save the taxpayer almost £400 million, national statistics chiefs said yesterday . When . the next census is run in 2021, the Office for National Statistics . expects to hire an army of enumerators equipped with iPads or similar . devices to help the elderly and others unsure of how to use the internet . to complete their questionnaires. Census-takers will also turn to . tax and NHS records to try to fill in any gaps left by the online census . and to try to keep population estimates up to date during the 10-year . gap between each full-scale census. National Statistician Jil . Matheson said yesterday that Parliament will need to pass new . legislation to allow the use of publicly-held data for the census. She . said: ‘I recognise that this legislation, desirable as it is for . statistics and their users, requires understanding and support form an . informed general public, and appropriate safeguards to protect personal . privacy.’ The first national census was taken in 1801, propelled by . official fears of the risks of a population explosion, and the count has . been repeated every decade since, except in 1941. Questions over its . future were raised after 2001, when a poorly-organised census missed a . million people, but the 2011 exercise managed to draw returns from 94 . per cent of the population. Its successes included detecting half a . million Eastern European immigrants who moved to Britain after 2004 but . who had escaped the notice of other attempts to estimate the population. Cabinet . Office Minister Francis Maude has been anxious to win savings by . reforming the census. The 2011 census cost £500 million, but repeating . the paper exercise in 2021 would cost an estimated £1 billion. The first national census was taken in 1801, propelled by official fears of the risks of a population explosion, and the count has been repeated every decade since, except in 1941 . ONS officials indicated yesterday that they believe an on-line census can be brought in for £625 million. Miss . Matheson said: ‘The general public is ready to move to a fully on-line . census, as long as there is appropriate help and support for those who . cannot or will not go on-line.’ She said using administrative data alone . - using information from public databases like birth and death . registers, the electoral roll, NHS registers, school and university . lists, and benefit and tax records - had a high risk of failure. Such . information is mainly used to count the population in European countries . which have population registers and identity card schemes. The ONS . already use child benefit statistics and birth and death registers to . count population, Miss Matheson said. However, public records could not . be used to build up a reliable picture of, for example, the ethnicity of . the population. The on-line census and public information will be . backed by a survey of four per cent of the population intended to . double-check the findings. For those chosen, taking part in the survey . will be compulsory. | Census-takers will also turn to .
tax and NHS records to fill in any gaps left .
The population count was first carried out more than 200 years ago .
ONS officials say hey believe on-line census can be brought in for £625m . |
0970bdfb5cde2030831db9d5569836e18eb64411 | Belfast, Northern Ireland (CNN) -- Sectarian violence flared up Saturday in Londonderry as Protestants continued their annual marching season in this predominantly Catholic city in Northern Ireland. Violence erupted earlier in the day in the city -- also known as Derry to some residents -- when masked youths attacked police vehicles with petrol bombs and a pipe bomb, setting fire to and hijacking a number of vehicles. The clashes followed the annual Apprentice Boys' parade, when about 10,000 Protestants marched in remembrance of the 1689 anniversary of the siege of Derry by England's Catholic ruler James II. Police said protesters hurled several dozen petrol bombs early Saturday and a mail van was later hijacked and set on fire as the main parade started. The Police Service of Northern Ireland warned members of the public to avoid the area. Three people have been charged in connection with the disorder, with several more arrested, police said. The area was later reported quiet, with local sources describing the earlier violence as "sustained rioting during a short period of time." However, there was further sporadic violence later in the evening. Derry's hard-line Catholic, republican-nationalist groups opposed to the Irish peace process have reacted violently in previous years to these annual Protestant marches, seeing them as provocations. Protestant groups claim they have the right to follow their centuries-old tradition. There was rioting earlier in the summer with some of the worst violence in the Ardoyne area of north Belfast following a parade by the main Protestant marching organisation, the Orange Order. The province suffered decades of violence known locally as the Troubles, in which more than 3,500 people were killed before a 1998 peace accord known as the Good Friday Agreement. The Troubles pitted mostly Catholic republicans, who want the province to become part of the Republic of Ireland, against pro-British loyalists, who are mostly Protestant. This year has been one of the most violent since the Good Friday Agreement. | Protestants march in Londonderry, a predominantly Catholic city .
Masked youths attack police vehicles .
Sporadic violence continues into the evening . |
0971ad16e3d219391a0691623e80d2abf1c4cfae | Archaeologists have uncovered cave art providing evidence that hunter-gatherer children may have attended a form of prehistoric pre-school. Researchers have revealed that 13,000 years ago, prehistoric children created art in caves with the help of their parents. A conference on the Archaeology of Childhood at Cambridge University, starting today, will reveal the latest research into art made by children as young as three in one of the most famous prehistoric decorated caves in France. Archaelogists found evidence of thousands of lines - a simple form of art or decoration known as finger flutings - made by people running their hands down the soft surfaces of the walls and roofs of the many galleries and passages that make up the complex . Stunning drawings of mammoths, rhinoceros and horses have been found within the five-mile 'Hundred Mammoths' cave system in Rouffignac. Experts recently developed a method of identifying the age and gender of those behind the drawings, with one of the most prolific artists being a prehistoric girl aged five. Some of the drawings by children were found high up on walls, meaning they could have been helped up there under the watchful eye of an adult. Also evident are thousands of lines - a simple form of art or decoration known as finger flutings - made by people running their hands down the soft surfaces of the walls and roofs of the many galleries and passages that make up the complex. Archaeologist Jess Cooney said: 'Flutings made by children appear in every chamber throughout the caves even those that are a good 45 minutes' walk from the entrance - so far, we haven't found anywhere that adults fluted without children. 'Some of the children's flutings are high up on the walls and on the ceilings, so they must have been held up to make them or have been sitting on someone's shoulders. Archaeologist Jess Cooney said: 'We don't know why people made them. We can make guesses like they were for initiation rituals, for training of some kind, or simply something to do on a rainy day' Some of the drawings by children were found high up on walls, meaning they could have been helped up there under the watchful eye of an adult. Cave woman: Archaeologist Jess Cooney . 'We have found marks by children aged . between three and seven-years-old - and we have been able to identify . four individual children by matching up their marks. 'The . most prolific of the children who made flutings was aged around five - . and we are almost certain the child in question was a girl. 'Interestingly, of the four children we know at least two are girls. 'One . cavern is so rich in flutings made by children that it suggests it was a . special space for them, but whether for play or ritual is impossible to . tell.' Archaeologists first realised that children had produced some of the finger flutings back in 2006. Fieldwork carried out earlier this year by Cooney and Leslie Van Gelder of Walden University, U.S., shows just how young they were. Though impossible to date accurately, the images found deep inside the Rouffignac caves - a network created by river systems - are likely to be at least 13,000 years old. The flutings also raise questions over age identity - whether children were seen as we are now - and apparent gender equality. Finger fluting also appears in caves in France, Spain, New Guinea and Australia. Cooney said: 'We don't know why people made them. We can make guesses like they were for initiation rituals, for training of some kind, or simply something to do on a rainy day. 'In addition to the simple meandering lines, there are flutings of animals and shapes that appear to be very crude outlines of faces, almost cartoon-like in appearance.' | Experts can identify the age and gender of those behind the drawings, with one of the most prolific artists being a prehistoric girl aged five .
'Some of the children's flutings are .
high up on the walls and on the ceilings, so they must have been held up .
to make them or have been sitting on someone's shoulders'
Images found deep inside the Rouffignac caves, France, are likely to be at least 13,000 years old . |
09738c8a2de39567d8b6db33af9fafb1d5e74d16 | Madrid, Spain (CNN) -- An unemployed security guard from Ecuador is Spain's top snoozer. Pedro Soria Lopez, 62, was able to nap for 17 minutes and register a 70-decibel snore while sprawled out on a couch in the middle of a crowded shopping mall in what's been billed as the first-ever Spanish National Siesta Championship, CNN sister network CNN Plus reported. The grand siesta champ won the first cash prize of 1,000 euros (about $1,400) in credit to purchase goods at the shopping center in Madrid. The competitors started off by lying down on blue sofas, some in pajamas. Each got to eat a lunch ahead of time, then had twenty minutes to get as much z's as they could squeeze in. Hundreds of contestants took part in the siesta championship which began October 14 and ended Saturday. The intricate rules award points to contestants depending on how long they sleep during the 20-minute competition time, any unusual positions they sleep in, eye-catching pajamas they might be wearing, and yes, a lot of extra points for snoring. The sponsors say it's meant to raise eyes to the problem of a country that's become so fast-paced that many say the traditional siesta is at risk. "The modern life is a danger that we feel is against the siesta. When you sleep la siesta everyone has the image that your life is calm, you have a good life. And then, the modern life is a direct attack," said Daniel Blanco, president of the National Association of Friends of the Siesta earlier in the competition. His group, which includes about 50 of his friends across Spain, persuaded a shopping center, Islazul, to host and pay prize money for the siesta competition. In the competition, the siesta is limited to 20 minutes, a duration which the organizers and some doctors say is optimal; a quick nap after lunch to get refreshed, without entering a deep sleep cycle. But the traditional siesta in Spain often lasts an hour or more. The bustling shopping center where the siesta championship is being held is a prime example of the changing times in Spain. The stores don't close at lunchtime -- which is what used to happen with Spanish shops -- so instead of sleeping the siesta, people are working or shopping. Siesta lovers complain that Spain's frenetic push to compete in the global economy means longer, more pressure-package workdays, even if some Spanish workers still get a two-hour lunch break. CNN's Al Goodman contributed to this report. | Spain's first national siesta championship wraps up in Madrid .
Winner napped for 17 minutes and registered a 70-decibel snore .
The siesta in Spain often lasts an hour or more .
Traditionalists blame pace of modern life for decline of siesta . |
097436b547af95eeddcdff51aa235680429e46b1 | A Scottish fish and chippie serving pricey lobster and expensive monkfish has been announced as one of the best in the UK. Cromars in St Andrews, Fife, which opened in September last year, has a specials board that changes daily, depending on the catch of the day. But the cheapest item on the menu is still a British classic - regular haddock and chips. Scroll down for video . Simpsons in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, holds wheat- and gluten-free fish and chip frying days. To secure a place as a top five finalist, the restaurants had to excel during a rigorous judging process . Owners Colin Cromar and William Frame are 'over the moon' at the achievement. 'We've barely been open a year,' Mr Cromar said to MailOnline Food, 'and to make it to the final five is just fantastic.' Five fish and chip shops from across the country are battling it out to be crowned winner of the Independent Fish and Chip Restaurant of the Year Award 2015. Joining Cromars in St Andrews, Fife are Burton Road Chippy in Lincoln, Lincolnshire; Fylde Fish Bar in Southport, Merseyside; Papa's Barn in Ditton, Kent and Simpsons Fish & Chips in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. Cromars in St Andrews, Fife has a specials board that changes daily depending on the catch of the day. Owners Colin Cromar and William Frame say they are 'over the moon' at the achievement . Cromars in St Andrews, Fife . Burton Road Chippy, Lincoln, Lincolnshire . Fylde Fish Bar in Southport, Merseyside . Papa's Barn in Ditton, Kent . Simpsons Fish & Chips, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire . Family-run Fylde Fish Bar in Southport, Merseyside and traditional fish and chip shop Burton Road Chippy in Lincoln, Lincolnshire were the only restaurants from the northern England to make it into the list. Papa's Barn in Ditton, Kent, is the only restaurant on the list with an alcohol licence and serves a £19.95 bottle of Spanish white wine, A20 Albarino Rias Baixas alongside seabass and lemon sole dishes. Making up the top five is Simpsons Fish & Chips in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, which holds wheat- and gluten-free fish and chip frying days on the last Monday of every month (except December). To secure a place as a top five finalist, the restaurants had to excel during a rigorous judging process including mystery shopper judging visits. The restaurants will enter one final round of judging before 20 January 2015, when the overall national winner will be crowned. The awards are organised by Seafish, an organisation that supports a sustainable future for the UK seafood industry. Paul Williams, Chief Executive of Seafish,said: 'We are greatly impressed with the high standard and professionalism of entrants in this year's awards. Papa's Barn in Ditton, Kent, is the only restaurant on the list with an alcohol licence and serves a £19.95 bottle of Spanish white wine, A20 Albarino Rias Baixas alongside its fish dishes . Burton Road Chippy (pictured) in Lincoln, Lincolnshire was one of the two restaurants from the northern England to make it into the list. The other is family-run Fylde Fish Bar in Southport, Merseyside . 'It was a challenging task to whittle down our finalists, so much so that we have shortlisted five restaurants instead of the usual three. 'The level of dedication and hard work shown by the finalists is admirable. I look forward to seeing who comes out on top at the final.' Britain currently spends £1.2bn on fish and chips, which equates to 382 million portions or six servings for every man, woman and child every year. The humble British chippy is enjoying a revival as endorsement by celebrity chefs and upmarket restaurants make fish and chips fashionable again. The number of chippies in the UK had risen to 10,500 by last year, outnumbering both McDonald's (1,200), and KFC (840). Posh versions of the dish in gastro-pubs and restaurants has added to the affect, along with the current trend for simple and natural food. | Merseyside and Linconshire chippies make it through to the top .
Scotland's Cromar's in St Andrews, Fife serves lobster and monkfish .
Simpsons in Cheltenham have once a month wheat and gluten-free days .
Order a £20 bottle of white wine to go with the fish at Papa's Barn in Kent . |
0975edfbba4c2be5b4fddfc94c553d0850a51c0e | Manchester United's summer target Arturo Vidal has aggravated his troublesome knee whilst on international duty for Chile. The Juventus star had to quit a routine training session in Miami, where Chile face Mexico and Haiti in friendlies, but is set to have a series of tests before returning to Italy. Vidal was heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford throughout the summer, but nothing materialised despite a series of negotiations between the clubs. VIDEO Scroll down for Massimiliano Allegri: Vidal happy to stay at Juventus . Opening win: Arturo Vidal featured in Juventus' 1-0 win at Chievo in Serie A before the international break . The 27-year-old required knee surgery towards the end of last season and was evidently far from fully fit at the World Cup. Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal is an admirer of Vidal but was hesitant to fork out a significant fee, with question marks surrounding the player's fitness. Instead, United paid a British record fee of £60million for Angel di Maria. These concerns could be justified as Vidal might have to go back for more surgery in an attempt to alleviate the niggling problem. If so, the Chilean will be on the sidelines for a considerable amount of time. New Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri will be frustrated by the revelations as he is trying to cope without talismanic playmaker Andrea Pirlo, who is out until October. Midfield force: The Chile midfielder was a top summer transfer target of Manchester United . Passionate: Vidal played with plenty of endeavour at the World Cup but lacked full fitness after knee surgery . Like our Manchester United Facebook page. Surgery again? The 27-year-old could be set for another go under the knife to alleviate a knee problem . | 27-year-old was linked with a move to Old Trafford throughout the summer .
Juventus star pulled out of training with Chile after aggravating knee .
Arturo Vidal had surgery on troublesome knee towards the end of last season and struggled to reach full fitness in time for the World Cup .
Louis van Gaal signed Angel di Maria and Radamel Falcao instead . |
09764ec275bee6726a771a3cb8289dd5953fe0e6 | A conservative blogger is in jail -- arrested for allegedly breaking into a Mississippi nursing home to photograph U.S. Sen. Thad Cochran's ailing wife, who is suffering from dementia. "It's the worst," says the narrator of a new Cochran campaign ad airing in the final stretch before the June 3 primary, not so subtly pointing the finger at his GOP Senate challenger, Chris McDaniel, trying to stir up voter disgust. This race, one of the nastiest so far this election year, has gotten even deeper in the Mississippi mud than that. Cochran supporters argue the reason the blogger and tea party activist took Mrs. Cochran's picture was to feed questions about the senator and his longtime aide, Kay Webber. Cochran: Quiet pragmatist faces re-election challenge . Conservative outlets that back McDaniel have been all over the fact Cochran rents a basement apartment in Webber's D.C. home, and that Webber has traveled extensively with Cochran on the taxpayer's dime. McDaniel's campaign often forwards these reports to its media email list, while the Cochran campaign calls her trips with the senator part of her job and suggestions of anything untoward are sexist. New ads in nasty Mississippi primary . This Republican primary was supposed to be about the big struggle of ideas within the GOP: a 36-year Senate veteran being challenged by a young tea party-backed opponent who calls the senator a big-spending, out-of-touch Republican too entrenched in Washington. Now McDaniel is fending off questions about whether his campaign was involved in trying to photograph Cochran's sick wife. "Our campaign had absolutely no connection to that whatsoever, and the evidence has shown that. What we're doing right now -- we're talking about the issues," McDaniel told CNN in an interview. The next Ted Cruz? But what gave ammunition to Cochran allies is that McDaniel's story about when he found out about the break-in has been inconsistent. When we asked for clarification, McDaniel wouldn't go there, replying, "Look, we're going to focus on his record." Three more arrested in Mississippi Senate primary scandal . If McDaniel has his way, he would be the next Ted Cruz, going to the Senate to shake things up -- stick to conservative principles, compromise be damned. "We don't have six more years of the status quo," he said. "I am not going to Washington D.C. to be a member of the cocktail circuit or to make backroom deals. I'm going up there to fight and defend the Constitution. We don't have time to waste. So with all due respect I would suggest they join me in this fight because they've been silent far too long," he told us. "He and I are very different with our ideology. He's a guy that believes in big government. He believes in big spending. He believes in increasing taxes. He believes in increasing his own pay. I am not that guy," McDaniel said. For the tea party movement nationwide -- after a string of primary losses this election year from Kentucky to Idaho -- McDaniel has been its great hope of 2014, the candidate with the best chance of toppling an establishment Republican. Things were looking good for McDaniel earlier this year, especially after Cochran stumbled by telling a local reporter here that "the tea party is something I don't really know a lot about." Millions of dollars pouring into Mississippi against Cochran come from a who's who of national tea party groups nationwide: Citizens United, Club For Growth, Senate Conservatives Fund, Tea Party Patriots and Freedomworks. The Sunlight Foundation, a nonprofit group that tracks money in politics, says outside groups have spent $7.6 million on the race, much of it for McDaniel and against Cochran. 2014 midterms: Key races . Fighting back against tea party challenges . But like other Republican incumbents this year, Cochran and his allies are fighting back hard. Henry Barbour, nephew of former Mississippi governor and RNC chairman Haley Barbour, formed a super PAC called Mississippi Conservatives to help Cochran. They have been airing aggressive ads slamming McDaniel as extreme, inconsistent and out of touch with Mississippi's needs. Other traditional GOP groups like the Chamber of Commerce have also come in with ads supporting Cochran, like they have for GOP incumbents in other states this year. Still, Cochran's four decades in Washington have won him loyal supporters. On Memorial Day, Cochran attended an event in Vicksburg. He was invited by the Democratic mayor, George Flaggs, who called him a "mentor" and "great friend." Flaggs told CNN he intends to vote for Cochran in the GOP primary since Mississippi law allows Democrats and others not registered as Republicans to participate. He said Cochran fights hard for Mississippi's needs and calls his seniority -- ranking Republican on the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee, a big plus for the state. "He's a leader; he's a statesman, and he's what we need in Washington. So stay as long as he wants to stay," Flagg said. Republican Briggs Hopson serves with McDaniel in the Mississippi state Senate, and told CNN he likes McDaniel but that Cochran is the "best person for Mississippi right now." "Seniority can be a plus. People can lose touch and get lazy and all those things but I don't think that's the case with Senator Cochran. He's been responsive to the needs in Mississippi for many years," Hopson told CNN. 'Those days are over' When we put those bipartisan sentiments to McDaniel he responded with an emphatic, "come on!" "I say name one fight Senator Cochran's lead against Barack Obama. Name one time he's raised his voice in defense of conservatism. Name one time he's fought back the liberal agenda. Name one piece of legislation he's authored in 42 years that benefited the conservative cause. Name one thing that he's been outwardly aggressive about. And they can't name one," McDaniel told CNN. "Look, there may have been a time for that in 1973 when he first went to Washington. Maybe when Richard Nixon was president that was the thing people did. Those days are over." We wanted to ask Cochran himself why he thinks he should get another six years, after serving 36 in the U.S. Senate and six before that in the House. But Cochran is trying to run out the clock and avoid unforced errors -- and going to head-scratching extremes to avoid talking to reporters like us. We tried to catch Cochran after his event in Vicksburg, but when an aide came out and saw us waiting, they did a bait and switch -- the car they told us Cochran was getting into screeched away without him, while he snuck out another door and left in another car, leaving reporters in the dust. Special coverage: 2014 midterms . | Race for Senate seat, already one of ugliest, has gotten nastier .
Conservatives make much of Cochran's relationship with aide .
Questions about challenger's relationship with picture-snapping blogger . |
097688e1a5077edd2875aaac19ca4b22a8c668d2 | (CNN) -- Bill Tilden was a controversial tennis legend who dominated the sport in the 1920s, but died in disgrace. The American achieved fame and fortune through his tennis exploits and befriended Hollywood stars such as Charlie Chaplin, but he spent over a year in jail in the 1940s on a morals charge, which ruined his reputation before his untimely death in 1953. Tilden won his six straight U.S. Open titles from 1920-1925, a record since the tournament abolished the challenge system -- where the champion automatically qualified for the final -- in 1911. Under that system, Richard Sears won the first seven editions of the U.S. Open (then the U.S. National Tennis Championships) in the 1880s. Last year, world No. 1 Roger Federer failed in his bid to match Tilden's record when he was beaten in the final by Juan Martin Del Potro. Tilden, who claimed his seventh U.S. Open title in 1929 as well as being twice a losing finalist, goes down in the history books as one of the greatest tennis players of all time. A relatively late starter, Tilden struggled to get into his college tennis team in Pennsylvania, but years of dedicated practice started to bear fruit after the First World War as he reached the U.S. Open finals of 1918 and 1919. He reached his peak in the 1920s, winning his first U.S. Open title and holding the world number one spot for seven straight years. Tilden also led the United States to a record seven straight Davis Cup titles as well as claiming three Wimbledon titles. His famed "cannonball" serves worked particularly well on the fast grass surfaces on which the U.S. Open and Wimbledon were staged. Tilden never won the French Open, being losing finalist in the last year it was held on grass courts, in 1927, and 1930 on clay. He won the last of his 10 grand slam titles at Wimbledon in 1930 before deserting the amateur ranks for the fledging professional circuit . Eventually joined by the likes of Ellsworth Vines, Fred Perry and Don Budge, Tilden remained a star attraction until well into his 40s, filling arenas such as Madison Square Garden in big-money matches. But off the court, Tilden was a controversial figure, battling with tennis officials as his amateur status was called into question, and he was accused of being arrogant and inconsiderate. Tilden, who never married, saw his reputation destroyed in the 1940s when he was found guilty of a morals charge in connection with a minor. He served seven-and-a-half months of a year's jail term, but was arrested again in 1949 after picking up a 16-year-old male hitchhiker. Tilden served a further 10 months for his probation violation and was shunned by the tennis community. His friendship with Hollywood stars such as Chaplin and a love of the theatrical world saw Tilden pour much of his riches into less-than-successful Broadway productions. He died a tragic figure in 1953, having a stroke in Los Angeles as he prepared for a trip to play in the U.S. Pro Championships despite his 60 years of age. Tilden was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1959, and in any polls of all-time great tennis players he always features in the top order. | Bill Tilden holds record of six straight U.S. Open crowns, but was a controversial figure .
Tilden dominated tennis in the 1920s, winning 10 grand slam titles .
The American legend served two prison sentences on morals charges in the 1940s .
Tilden was shunned by the tennis community and died at the age of 60 . |
0976d596be768af494b912cbbc0a7a3134424ed3 | Convenience of staff: Inspections have uncovered cases where residents are woken in the early hours – in one case as early as 4am (file picture) Elderly people should not be woken up early to fit in with care home staff rotas and save them extra work, new guidelines say. Inspections have uncovered cases where residents are woken in the early hours – in one case as early as 4am – for the convenience of staff. The lives of thousands of elderly and vulnerable people in care homes are also being put at risk because staff do not bother to make sure that residents get enough to eat, the National Institute for Care and Health Excellence (NICE) has warned. New guidance instructs care home managers to give residents ‘as much choice as possible about personal routines’. Professor Gillian Leng, deputy chief executive of NICE, said: ‘The person’s needs should come before what is most convenient for the home.’ On residents being forced to get up and go to bed at unusual hours for the convenience of staff, the NICE briefing paper, aimed at care home managers and local council social services chiefs, said residents should be allowed to ‘go at their own pace’. The guidelines also warn that one in ten people over 65 suffer from malnutrition and called for care home staff to routinely monitor meals and diets. NICE says: ‘Without proper care and attention, older people in care homes can develop malnutrition and this can lead to a hospital admission. Investigation: Police arrested two workers on suspicion of neglect and ill-treatment after 83-year-old and 93-year-old residents died within days of each other at Birdgrove care home (pictured) in Berkshire . ‘Care homes need to be aware of the need to provide residents with a balanced, healthy diet and to be aware of the signs of malnutrition.’ The intervention of NICE, which advises NHS and private health providers and decides which drugs the NHS should make available, reflects a growing concern that many care homes are run for the convenience of staff rather than residents. The warning on malnutrition follows a series of scandals involving care homes where elderly residents who needed help with meals were ignored. Concerns have also been raised about the failure of care homes to give residents enough to drink – often because staff do not want to be bothered with helping residents to use the toilet in the middle of the night. Both failures can lead rapidly to hospital admission and a high likelihood of death for the patient. The NICE warnings came on the day the Daily Mail reported that two workers had been arrested on suspicion of neglect and ill-treatment following the death of a resident at the Birdgrove care home in Berkshire. A large-scale academic study published last month found that care home residents are also highly likely to be suffering from dehydration when they go into hospital, and, once there, they are up to ten times more likely to die than other elderly patients. Professor Leng said: ‘Our recommendations advise that people living in care homes should be helped to retain their independence and identity, for example through supporting them to take part in activities they enjoy, and allowing them to go at their own pace. ‘It is also important to respect a person’s right to make their own decisions if they still have the capacity to do so. This includes having as much choice as possible about personal routines such as when someone eats or sleeps, or spends time alone.’ She added: ‘Older people’s physical needs are equally important to their mental wellbeing.’ | Residents are woken in the early hours for the convenience of staff .
Staff do not bother to ensure residents get enough to eat, NICE says .
Home managers must give residents choices about 'personal routines'
Guidelines warn that one in ten people over 65 suffer from malnutrition . |
0977ed3943075fab083c1bb3bd763e925ef1c3e3 | By . Matt Chorley, Mailonline Political Editor . PUBLISHED: . 03:04 EST, 21 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 13:49 EST, 21 May 2013 . Lord Tebbit suggested gay marriage should be extended to family members to avoid inheritance tax . Norman Tebbit has launched a foul-mouthed attack on David Cameron, claiming the Tory leader has ‘f***** things up’ by pressing ahead with gay marriage laws. The former party chairman’s extraordinary public criticism of the current leadership emerged after the Prime Minister was forced to rely on Labour support to rescue same-sex weddings. Lord Tebbit said the plans would create inconsistencies, and could be extended to help families avoid inheritance tax, declaring: ‘Maybe I’d be allowed to marry my son.’ But the plans to legalise gay marriage have tonight cleared the Commons, despite efforts by Tory backbenchers to derail the legislation. There was applause in the House after MPs voted by 366 to 161, a majority of 205, to give the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill a third reading. The legislation will go to the House of Lords after the half-term recess where it is expected to attract fierce opposition from peers, especially the bishops. Tonight's result is a marginal improvement for Mr Cameron on the vote at second reading when 175 MPs opposed the plans in a Commons vote. It also comes as a relief for Downing Street following a serious attempt yesterday by Tory former minister Tim Loughton to derail the Bill. Mr Loughton had tabled an amendment extending civil partnerships to straight couples - a move which ministers warned could have cost the Treasury an extra £4 billion in pension liabilities and scupper the chances of the Bill becoming law. But Labour - mindful they did not want to play any part in derailing the Bill - decided against supporting Mr Loughton - a move which would have seen the amendment pass - and offered the Government an 11th hour deal to immediately review the possibility of extending civil partnerships to straight couples. Culture Secretary Maria Miller accepted their amendment and Mr Loughton's amendment in the end was easily defeated. Mr Cameron’s leadership has been under sustained criticism for weeks, unable to suppress Tory mutiny over Europe and gay marriage. Last night he wrote to party activists to build bridges with them after a senior Tory figure reportedly called them ‘mad, swivel-eyed loons’. In an interview with the Big Issue Lord Tebbit said ministers had alienated traditional Tory voters. Scroll down for video . David Cameron, pictured leaving Tory party headquarters in Millbank yesterday, is under pressure to repair relations with the grassroots . The party leadership had ‘f***ed things up’ and the UK Independence Party would pick up support as a result. A new opinion poll last night put UKIP just two points behind the Conservatives. Lord Tebbit added: ‘If [UKIP] make significant gains in the European elections, I know there’s people rich enough to get involved and fund a significant campaign at a general election.’ Discussing the impact of legalising gay marriage, Lord Tebbit suggested it be extended to family members. He said: ‘It’s like one of my colleagues said: we’ve got to make these same-sex marriages available to all. It would lift my worries about inheritance tax because maybe I’d be allowed to marry my son. Why not? ‘Why . shouldn’t a mother marry her daughter? Why shouldn’t two elderly . sisters living together marry each other? I quite fancy my brother!’ Lord Tebbit also questioned whether the gay marriage laws could cause chaos when combined with changes to the rules of succession, which would allow an older female heir to the throne to become monarch. ‘I said to a minister I know: “Have you thought this through? Because you’re doing the law of succession, too.” ‘When we have a queen who is a lesbian and she marries another lady and then decides she would like to have a child and someone donates sperm and she gives birth to a child, is that child heir to the throne?’ Lord Tebbit later admitted he had sworn during the interview. ‘It’s not the language I normally use, but during a long interview I may well have said it,’ he told The Times. Mr Cameron issued a love letter to Tory activists last night as UKIP closed to within two points in the opinion polls. The peace offering followed revelations that a senior ally of the Prime Minister had branded the party faithful ‘swivel-eyed loons’. MPs warn that his leadership is in peril amid discontent on Europe and gay marriage. The scale of the crisis was shown last night by a new poll that puts the Tories down five points on just 24 per cent, 11 behind Labour. UKIP – up six points in a month – was on 22 per cent, double the level of Lib Dem support. In his email to party members, Mr Cameron said: ‘We have been together through good times and bad. This is more than a working relationship; it is a deep and lasting friendship.’ Referring to reports that Tory co-chairman Lord Feldman – a tennis partner of Mr Cameron – had insulted them, he added: ‘ I am proud to lead this party. I am proud of what you do. And I would never have around me those who sneered or thought otherwise. ‘We are a team, from the parish council to the local association to Parliament, and I never forget it.’ The dire poll ratings will fuel the discontent of Tory MPs who warned yesterday the number prepared to force a leadership election has risen in recent days. If 46 write letters to Graham Brady, chairman of the backbench 1922 Committee, there would be a vote of no confidence in Mr Cameron. | Former Tory chairman's foul-mouthed attack on party leadership .
Warns disaffected Conservatives will flock to UKIP .
Family members should be able to marry to avoid inheritance tax, he says .
Declares in Big Issue interview: 'I quite fancy my brother!'
Plans have tonight cleared the Commons, despite efforts to derail legislation . |
0977f78d50635dcb53d1b688fd98d306d465d758 | Tourists to Churchill, Manitoba, in northern Canada are getting nose-to-nose with fearsome polar bears thanks to a massive hand-built machine that is dubbed a 'cruise liner on wheels'. Tundra Buggies, which tower 13ft over the Arctic tundra, bring holidaymakers within touching distance of the world's largest land predators. Churchill, Manitoba, a town on the western shore of Hudson Bay that has been nicknamed the Polar Bear Capital of the World. The area is currently deciding whether to lift restrictions on eco-tourism as it prepares to designate a new polar bear provincial park on Hudson Bay. Scroll down for video . Tourists get up close and personal with a polar bear on a Tundra Buggy in Churchill, Manitoba . There are currently 18 permits for the vehicles and some are concerned that more permits might attract tour operators who would not safely navigate around the animals. Canada is home to two-thirds of the world's polar bears, but environmental experts say climate change could make the Hudson Bay population extinct within a few decades. The Tundra Buggy towers 13ft over the Arctic tundra and brings holidaymakers within touching distance of the bears . Cute: A polar bear and cub are photographed from a Tundra Buggy in northern Manitoba . The Tundra Buggies, owned and operated by Frontiers North Adventures, who are working with the charity Polar Bears International researching how to save polar bears from extinction, are capable of hauling a mobile lodge with a length of more than 200ft. The modular lodges contain a cafe, lounge and sleeping quarters in addition to a large observation deck that allows tourists to get close-up photos of polar bears that are eight feet tall on their hind legs and can weigh 1,500 pounds. Frontiers North Adventures spokeswoman Brandi Hayberg said: 'Bears are often interested in the Tundra Buggy and will approach it. Sometimes they will stand on their hind legs and put their paws on the side of the vehicle. Guides are dwarfed by the Tundra Buggy, which is 13ft tall and 11ft wide, and has tyres with a diameter of five feet . Thousands of tourists flock to Churchill every year to see the bears and spend nights under the Northern Lights . Sightseeing: Tourists observe and photograph wildlife from the observation deck on a Tundra Buggy . 'Depending on the height of the bear, our guests can easily get their faces within a few feet of a polar bear.' Tour operators bill it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience as the excursions range from a one-off day trip at £250 per person to a fully-catered eight-night stay in the Tundra Buggy lodge, which costs over £6,000. But visitors are almost guaranteed to have a closer encounter with the polar bears and learn about their lives and conservation efforts. Polar bears are listed as a threatened species, but the population along the Tundra Buggy's route was last recorded as a stable 1,013. The Tundra Buggy Lodge regularly crosses the harsh Canadian tundra in search of polar bears . Frontiers North Adventures' Tundra Buggies are capable of hauling a mobile lodge with a length of more than 200ft . Entertainment: Guests look out at a polar bear while having dinner in the Tundra Buggy Lodge . The buggy was designed and built by Churchill resident Leonard Smith, who sold his business to Frontiers North Adventures, which has Tundra Buggies that can accommodate up to 40 passengers. Guests are assured that the buggies are perfectly sense as long as they use common sense. Ms Hayberg said: 'Our Tundra Buggies are too tall for the bears to reach the railing of the observation decks or the bottoms of the windows. 'We are always diligent to tell our guests that feeding the bears or littering on the tundra are strictly forbidden. If a guest broke the rules, the tour would end immediately.' Lineup: A study involving Frontiers North Adventures found that only five per cent of the bears showed any dislike for the buggies . Cosy: Frontiers North Adventures has two types of Tundra Buggies that can accommodate up to 40 guests . Northern Lights: The tours allow guests to see polar bears in their natural habitat and learn more about conservation efforts . Bunk beds: The modular lodges contain a cafe, lounge and sleeping quarters for guests . A study involving Frontiers North Adventures found that only five per cent of the white-furred bears showed any dislike for the buggies. And despite the hefty price tag Mr Hayberg insists it is a trip worth saving for. She said: 'We do realise that travel in the north is costly. Not everyone in the world will be able to make the journey. 'But getting the chance to see these incredible creatures in real life and then to learn about their lives and habitat from our guides really does seem to drive home the importance of living sustainably. 'Our hope is at the end of the tour our guests will have been inspired by their experience and will in turn return home with the intention of doing their part to help conserve our environment.' | Tours are in Churchill, Manitoba, billed the Polar Bear Capital of the World .
Frontiers North America offers one-week excursions in Tundra Buggy lodges .
Not unusual for bears to balance on their hind legs and gaze up at tourists .
Excursions range from £250 per person to over £6,000 . |
097823bb4a2fe41875509cd35b403a03e4dd5509 | A smartphone app that gives you the full lowdown on VIP airport lounges is available to download - for free. Many lounges offer their facilities for a one-off fee, busting the myth that these have to be booked in advance when sorting your flights. There are hundreds of lounges around the world that are there to be taken advantage of, and one San Francisco-based company's app, LoungeBuddy, can help you select the right one for you. Scroll down for video . If you fancy a massage at the Qantas First Class Lounge at Sydney airport, LoungeBuddy can help you book . The app will tell you what lounges are available as well as give guest reviews to help . With delays, cancellations and missed connections a hardship felt by many, a bit of wining and dining in an airport lounge could prove to be the perfect solution. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable spot to relax and have a cocktail, a work desk to be productive, a place to have a meal while enjoying views of the tarmac, or access to a shower after that long flight, a private oasis is now available to you. Treat yourself with a stay at the New South Wales Sydney Kingsford-Smith Airport . The business class lounge at Mauritius, SSR International Airport, oozes class and style . The smartphone app can advise of costs as well as exact locations of VIP lounges around the world . You can instantly book and access your airport oasis in LoungeBuddy in seconds. The user will have to input their itinerary, what lounge access, if any, they have, and the app will do the rest, notifying of exact location and price. You can also browse photos and reviews of the lounges, making your selection an informed one. The LoungBuddy app is available free on IOS and Android. | LoungeBuddy can advise of walk-in lounges as well as reviews .
The app also tells you what facilities are on offer, and what will be 'free'
App is available on IOS and Android platforms, and is free to download . |
097854d6610d2bbdd1a79c4428b8042b6b385015 | (CNN) -- The University of Vermont's Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity is under investigation after a survey surfaced online asking fraternity brothers whom they would rape. The national Sigma Phi Epsilon organization said in a statement that "the fraternity has instructed the chapter to cease all operations, pending further investigation." It added that "any behavior that demeans women is not tolerated by the fraternity." Leadership from the fraternity's national office was in Burlington on Wednesday, working with university administrators to look into the survey, which was discovered this week, CNN affiliate WCAX reported. "We want to make sure that any individuals that were responsible for that document or any other faults are held accountable," Tyler Boggess of Sigma Phi Epsilon told the affiliate. "It is technically free speech, and yet it is deplorable and just absolutely inappropriate and offensive," Annie Stevens, associate vice president for student and campus life, told the affiliate. "It may be in this instance where there's a dynamic of only a few knew about this, we don't know that yet, or did the whole chapter know? ... Those are the kinds of questions that we have." This year, the fraternity was placed on probation for serving alcohol to underage students at an off-campus house, Stevens added. Read more about this story from CNN affiliate WCAX. | Leadership from Sigma Phi Epsilon met with the university Wednesday .
"It is technically free speech, and yet it is deplorable," a school official says .
The national office of the fraternity says it is investigating the incident . |
0978f4d970e35f415d753a364d01ff20c9ed3c8d | (CNN) -- Jim Furyk, Steve Stricker, Brandt Snedeker and Dustin Johnson were named as wild card picks Tuesday for the United States Ryder Cup team to face holders Europe later this month. Captain Davis Love III had four places available for the match at Medinah, near Chicago from September 28-30 and has arrived at a mixture of youth and experience. The veteran Furyk will be making his eighth appearance in the biennial team golf competition, Snedeker will be one of four first time rookies. "We need hot putters and there really hasn't been a hotter putter on tour since the Open (than Snedeker)," Love told the official press conference. The 28-year-old Johnson is in the team for the second time, while Stricker, who has formed a successful partnership with Tiger Woods in previous U.S. teams, will be making a third appearance. "I think we have a great team," Love said. "We're extremely deep this time, deeper than we have ever been." Woods, Bubba Watson, Jason Dufner, Keegan Bradley, Webb Simpson, Zach Johnson, Phil Mickelson and Matt Kuchar were automatic picks for the United States team based on points gained in tournaments through last month's U.S. PGA Championship. Hunter Mahan, who won twice on the PGA Tour earlier this season, and Nick Watney, who claimed The Barclays title in the FedEx Cup playoffs, were both overlooked. "There were a lot of guys who played a lot of good golf. It was tough to leave anybody off. It was a tough call for me." Europe, who took back the trophy back with victory at Celtic Manor in Wales two years ago, finalized their line-up last week. Captain Jose Maria Olazabal added Ian Poulter and Nicolas Colsaerts to his 10 automatic choices. The team will be spearheaded by world number one Rory McIlroy, who added the Deutsche Bank Championship Monday to his PGA Championship win. McIlroy and former world number one Woods were paired together for the opening two rounds of the BMW Championship in Indiana, third leg of the FedEx Cup playoffs, which starts Thursday. USA Ryder Cup team: . Tiger Woods, Bubba Watson, Jason Dufner, Keegan Bradley, Webb Simpson, Zach Johnson, Phil Mickelson, Matt Kuchar, Steve Stricker, Jim Furyk, Dustin Johnson, Brandt Snedeker . European Ryder Cup team: . Rory McIlroy (NIR), Justin Rose (ENG), Paul Lawrie (SCO), Graeme McDowell (NIR), Francesco Molinari (ITA), Luke Donald (ENG), Lee Westwood (ENG), Sergio Garcia (ESP), Peter Hanson (SWE), Martin Kaymer (GER), Ian Poulter (ENG), Nicolas Colsaerts (BEL) | U.S. Ryder Cup team for match against Europe finalized .
Jim Furyk, Steve Stricker, Brandt Snedeker and Dustin Johnson wild card picks .
Snedeker will be fourth Ryder Cup rookie in team for match at Medinah later this month .
Europe hold the trophy after home win at Celtic Manor two years ago . |
0979838ef2e4b9b7832b38a94cab5a25158fac9e | By . Lucy Waterlow . PUBLISHED: . 10:00 EST, 22 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 08:20 EST, 25 November 2013 . Sexy lingerie may be at the top of many women's Christmas lists this year but you'll need an especially rich and generous partner to receive an item from a new capsule collection in Selfridges. The department store will exclusively stock lingerie by label Bordelle whose collection includes one girdle dress costing an eye-watering £4,000. The bondage-inspired black garment is made with satin elastic bands, customised French embroidered lace, 18-carat gold plated decorations and buckles and hand-sewn Swarovski crystals. Decadent: Bordelle's Roxelana girdle dress costs £4,000 and is embellished with Swarovski crystals, left, a model wears a similar style, right . British designer, Alex Popa, who founded Bordelle, told Vogue the lingerie is worth the high price tag because it's made-to-measure using expensive materials. She said: 'The brand has been going for five years now, and we really wanted to create something really decadent this Christmas. 'Each piece is handmade and numbered one, two or three of three. The pieces use gold filigree, Swarovski crystals, the most luxurious fabrics - and each piece takes seven to ten days to make. Completely made to order, it's our most couture collection yet.' Expensive taste: This Adana Body, left is £1,302 while the Angela dress, right, is £651 . Although still not affordable for many, other items in the collection come at a cheaper price than the extravagant girdle dress. A similar version of the £4,000 item without crystals is £1,025. Prices for other garments range from £54 for an 'everyday' thong while a simpler corset dress costs £420 and a bra and knicker set £126 and £72 respectively. All items are available in small, medium and large sizes with adjustable features for a closer fit. Miss Popa told MailOnline: 'There is something that can appeal to every woman, from the modern . romantic to the fashion forward dominatrix looking for design novelty, . impeccable quality and a little bit of fun and games.' This set costs £348.75 for the bodice bra and £186 for the suspender briefs: No wonder the label has a celebrity following . Bordelle launched in 2009 and have quickly become a favourite with celebrities and those with expensive taste. They've made designs for Lady Gaga, Shakira and Christina Aguilera in their London workshop. Their £900 feather girdle sold out in 24 hours at Selfridge's Oxford Street store in central London ahead of Christmas 2009. Miss Popa said she was inspired to set up her own label at a time when 'very few lingerie labels were truly experimental with their offerings and there was a genuine lack of designer lingerie that successfully combined directional lingerie design with high fashion and a touch of bondage.' She added: ''Women are powerful and extravagant and this is something I explored with the initial designs.' | Department store will exclusively stock lingerie by Bordelle .
Label make made-to-measure pieces .
£4,000 price tag is on corset embellished with Swarovski crystals .
Cheapest item is thong for £54 . |
097a67d25d54c640946f7f70061344ffba7c5678 | Never one to be outdone by its biggest competitor, Samsung is now looking to launch its own mobile payment service to rival Apple Pay. Sources told Re/code that the South Korean tech giant is in talks with startup LoopPay to let people pay for goods using their phones. Samsung has previously allowed NFC payments on certain networks and with partners including Barclaycard, but if it teamed up with LoopPay, the service would be expanded more widely. Never one to be outdone by its biggest competitor, Samsung is now looking to launch its own mobile payment service to rival Apple Pay (pictured at its launch with Tim Cook). Sources said the Korean tech giant is in talks with startup LoopPay to let people pay for goods using their phones . LoopPay calls itself a ‘wallet solution’ that lets customer pay with their phones and tablets ‘virtually everywhere’. It consists of an app and a device, which is either a fob or a specially-designed phone case. The sources revealed that Samsung is already in talks with the Massachusetts-based provider, and prototypes have been created, but there is no word on when the service will launch - if at all. If the firms do partner up, LoopPay’s technology could be built into future models of Samsung devices, including phones, tablets and smartwatches. The LoopPay app securely stores all payment cards including credit, debit, loyalty and gift cards. LoopPay (left) calls itself a ‘wallet solution’ that lets customers pay with their phones and tablets ‘virtually everywhere’. It consists of an app and a device, which is either a fob or a phone case. If the firms do partner up, LoopPay’s technology could be built into Samsung phones (Galaxy S5 pictured right), tablets and watches . These can be used to pay for shopping in 90 per cent of shops and banks in the US. Customers simply tell the retailer which card they want to use before tapping the device on a reader. LoopPay calls itself a ‘wallet solution’ that lets customer pay with their phones and tablets ‘virtually everywhere’. It consists of an app and a device, which is either a fob or a phone case. The LoopPay app securely stores all payment cards including credit, debit, loyalty and gift cards. These can be used to pay for shopping in 90% of shops and banks in the US. Customers simply tell the retailer which card they want to use before tapping the device on a reader. Apple Pay launched earlier this year and lets people with an iPhone 6 and 6 Plus pay for goods by tapping their handsets on NFC readers. It works by holding the phone up to a card reader and pressing a finger on the TouchID button. This confirms the person's identity, and the payment is made as if the user had presented and signed their card. All details are encrypted and the system stores payment information securely. If an iPhone is lost, users can suspend all payments via the Find my iPhone service. Apple Pay is currently available in around 220,000 shops, and 10 banks, in the US. By comparison, LoopPay is available at more than 90 per cent - or 10 million - shops in the US. It works on Apple, Samsung, Motorola, LG, HTC and Huawei devices and can additionally be used at more than 5,000 banks and issuers. Samsung has previously partnered with the likes of Barclaycard and China's UnionPay, among others, to offer NFC-enabled mobile payment services to select customers. But its deal with LoopPay would make these services more widely available. Samsung has previously partnered with the likes of Barclaycard and China's UnionPay, among others, to offer NFC-enabled mobile payment services (Samsung graphic illustrated) to select customers. But its deal with LoopPay would make these services more widely available . Samsung's next generation Galaxy handset has been revealed in a leaked image (pictured), a Dutch website has claimed. The handset, which appears to have a 5.5-inch screen, is rumoured to include a 16 or 20 megapixel camera . Samsung's next generation Galaxy handset has been revealed in a leaked image, a Dutch website has claimed. The handset, which appears to have a 5.5inch screen, is rumoured to include a 16 or 20 megapixel camera. The handset is expected to be unveiled at Mobile World Congress, a trade show in Barcelona, which takes place from 2-5 March. According to the leaked image from a Dutch site, the S6 has a very thin bezel, and a rounded design similar to the iPhone 6. A striking feature of the prototype are the thin left and right edges of the screen, and the displacement of the selfie camera toward the center of the top,' it says. Previous leaks from BGR say the SM-G925F - the codename believed to be assigned to the Galaxy S6 - will feature a Quad HD (2560 x 1440 resolution) display, octa-core processor, Mali-T768 graphics processing unit, and a 16-megapixel rear-facing camera. | Samsung is said to be in talks with Massachusetts-based startup LoopPay .
LoopPay offers cases and cards that let people pay for goods wirelessly .
Its app and technology could be built into future Samsung devices .
It would use NFC technology and would rival Apple Pay .
Service is available at more than 90% of shops, compared to Apple’s 3% .
Samsung has previously allowed NFC payments on certain networks . |
097d5f1ea7d423d67aa983e655ab6a5f04a8cee4 | Police are solving less than a third of all crimes reported, with conviction rates varying depending on where people live. Figures released by the Ministry of Justice reveal that criminals are more likely to escape prosecution in London, where fewer than a quarter are caught. On public transport conviction rates are even worse, with just 13 per cent of all crimes solved by British Transport Police. New figures released by the Ministry of Justice show that police are solving fewer than one in three crimes . Despite overall crime falling since 2004, conviction rates have remained at just 30 per cent, the Daily Mirror reported. In total, there were 3.5 million crimes committed in England and Wales during 2013/14, but only a million ended in a criminal being convicted. Around 704,000 crimes were reported in London over the past year, but the Metropolitan Police managed to solve 169,000 of these cases - 24 per cent. In Wales the situation is more positive. In the last 12 months the force convicted 10,800 criminals for 18,600 - a success rate of 58 per cent. Police forces in Northumbria, Cumbria, Norfolk and Hertfordshire all have success rates of more than 40 per cent and appear in the top five in a list of conviction rates. The Metropolitan Police, appears in the lowest five forces for conviction rates. Warwickshire, West Midlands and Bedfordshire also appear in this group with low conviction rates - less than the average 29 per cent for England and Wales. British Transport Police, which covers crimes on railways and roads is at the bottom of the conviction rate league table - with a success rate of just 13 per cent. The figures include crimes where an offender has accepted a caution, or where a crime has been 'taken into consideration' as part of other proceedings. A spokeswoman for the Metropolitan Police said the force had 'introduced measures to bring more offenders to justice as part of our total war on crime.' However, despite the low conviction rates, it is feared that the prison population could swell by 15 per cent by 2020 to almost 100,000 - leaving jails struggling to cope with a surge in violent and sexual offenders. The Ministry of Justice predicted the number of prisoners in England and Wales will rise every year until the end of the decade. It means thousands more prison places will be needed, because the current capacity is only 88,015. Sex offenders are also being jailed for longer, with average sentences increasing by 2.4 months to almost six years when compared to 2013. | Police in England and Wales are solving less than a third of all crimes .
Despite overall crime falling conviction rates have remained at 30 per cent .
Conviction rates vary by area - just 25 per cent of crimes solved in London .
But in Wales, Dyfed Powys police has a conviction rate of 58 per cent .
Crime victims on buses and trains have the worst prospect of justice .
The British Transport Police clear 13 per cent of crime reported to them . |
097ebdf375e3f532e6abb7048419895a9c6696c7 | (CNN) -- More than a month ago, the public health community celebrated the polio-free certification of Southeast Asia including India, viewed as a hopeful step toward global eradication. But the euphoria has waned as concerns grow the virus is making a comeback and re-appearing in countries that had previously eliminated the disease within their borders. Pakistan has seen major challenges in recent years, reporting 80% of polio cases this year. The country faces challenges within its health system including restricted access to its federally administered tribal areas and violence against polio campaign health workers. Vaccine workers have been tortured, shot, bombed, and even have had their family members kidnapped. "You have disruption of health services, vaccination services are broken where areas are no-go because there is mistrust and health teams are not allowed within the conflict area," said Dr. Zulfiqar Bhutta, who is co-director of The Hospital for Sick Children in Canada and also works in Pakistan. "In that particular circumstance, to imagine that business would be as usual is naïve." While Pakistan faces hurdles, India's polio program has been lauded as a model for tackling polio. India's program "was largely internally funded, strongly managed," said Bhutta. Once considered the hardest place to end polio, India boosted disease surveillance and immunization efforts to vaccinate hard-to-reach communities. To counter rumors and misgivings about the vaccine, social mobilizers, religious leaders and parents were included to increase understanding about immunizations. "In Pakistan, that political will in terms of making this a national priority hasn't existed," Bhutta said. "They haven't invested enough in routine immunizations, which are critical to eradicating polio. You've got to get people aware of the importance of preventive strategies." In 2014, the World Health Organization confirmed 74 new cases of polio -- 59 of them were in Pakistan. Within Pakistan, 46 of these cases have been from its restive Federally Administered Tribal Areas, which is located along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border and retains internal autonomy. The country with the second highest number of polio cases is Afghanistan, which reported four cases. But all of these are related to viruses that originated from Pakistan, according to the WHO. Emergency measures recommended . On Monday, the WHO recommended emergency measures for three of the countries deemed as the greatest risk for further exporting the virus -- Syria, Cameroon and Pakistan. The organization called for residents of these countries to get vaccinated and show proof of polio immunization before international travel. It also calls for the head of state to declare polio a national public health emergency. "If the situation as of today and April 2014 went unchecked, it could result in failure to eradicate globally one of the world's most serious vaccine preventable diseases," said Dr. Bruce Aylward, assistant director-general for polio, emergencies and country collaboration at the WHO. Pakistan has been establishing vaccination booths at its land borders with Afghanistan, China, India and also Iran, according to the WHO. Bhutta said he wasn't surprised by the WHO's move, but worried the recommendation was a "Band-Aid measure" that's "not going get to the root of the problem." This may divert the vaccines and human resources from Pakistan communities that need them the most, to the huge number of travelers, Bhutta said. "I'm concerned that will take away from the main polio control program and that's the last thing anybody wanted." Pakistan is considered the only country that is "off track" in meeting its target to stop polio transmission, according to the WHO. Militants in Pakistan have targeted anti-polio campaigns since U.S. intelligence officials used a fake vaccination program to aid their hunt for Osama bin Laden in 2011. Since then, militant groups, with connections to the Pakistani Taliban, have been opposing polio vaccinations and accusing health workers of pursuing a political agenda. Dozens have been killed in acts of violence carried out against polio vaccine workers. Pakistan has tried to protect its health workers from violence. In Peshawar, authorities banned the riding of motorcycles during vaccine campaigns to prevent attacks, said Aylward. Polio, which can cause permanent paralysis in hours, has been reported in 10 countries: Afghanistan, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Iraq, Israel, Somalia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Cameroon and Syria. | India celebrated its polio-free certification in late March .
Its neighbor Pakistan grapples with polio efforts with several cases reported in 2014 .
World Health Organization recommends emergency measures in Pakistan .
Pakistan has public health challenges including tribal areas, threats to health workers . |
097ee9341dcdc05cc3569342dc4f1178c9bac05b | (CNN) -- Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan dominated debates leading up to Sunday's local elections, even though he wasn't on the ballot. Even before results were announced, a triumphant Erdogan spoke to cheering supporters from the balcony of the headquarters of his ruling Justice and Development Party, calling the vote a victory for democracy in Turkey. Erdogan said he delivered an "Ottoman slap" to opponents at the polls. He compared his opponents to medieval assassins, and he vowed to pursue them. Even though Erdogan wasn't running for office, the closely watched municipal votes could show how much recent controversies and corruption probes are affecting support for him and his ruling party. CNN sister network CNN Turk reported that Erdogan's party had taken a strong early lead in the vote count, but opposition sources contest that. Is Turkey approaching a breaking point? Erdogan's government faces a corruption probe, waves of street protests have wracked the country for nearly a year, and the country's once-booming economy is slowing down. "Despite all the undesired statements at rallies, today people will tell the truth and it will be beyond everything," Erdogan told journalists as he cast his vote earlier Sunday. "People's words will be decisive rather than those who spoke at rallies. For me, people will make the final call, and we respect people's decision." As authorities counted votes in the nationwide municipal elections Sunday, rival parties claimed victory in the races for mayor in Turkey's largest cities. The municipal vote is seen as a test of strength for Erdogan and the ruling Justice and Development Party, which has been in power since 2002. Erdogan, who took office in 2003, has been on the political defensive since December, when police detained dozens of people close to his government as part of a wide-ranging corruption probe. In subsequent weeks, the Prime Minister dismissed thousands of police commanders as well as the prosecutors leading the investigation. In early March, the death of a 15-year-old boy who had been hit in the head with a tear-gas canister during a demonstration last June sparked a new round of demonstrations. An Istanbul crowd chanted "fascist government, Erdogan killer" as Berkin Elvan's coffin was carried through the streets of his family's working-class Istanbul neighborhood. Erdogan fought back against critics who used social networks to attack him by vowing earlier this month to "eradicate" Twitter. The Twitter crackdown follows earlier threats by Erdogan to shut down Facebook and YouTube. Anonymous critics used the popular social networking sites to publish a series of audio recordings online that appear to be wiretaps of conversations of high-level officials, including Erdogan himself. The government has accused social media platforms of being used to spread false information and lies. The Prime Minister has called some recordings "immorally edited material," including one in which a man who sounds like him purportedly instructs his son to hide tens of millions of dollars in cash from investigators. But he has also confirmed the authenticity of other wiretaps, including one in which he is heard telling the head of a major television news network to cut short the live broadcast of a rival politician's speech in parliament. "The electoral campaigns have been tough," Turkish President Abdullah Gul said as he voted. "But I want Turkish people to remember that our state is strong. State institutions are also strong. The problems we face will be resolved within a legal framework." The leader of the main opposition Republican People's Party, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, told reporters Sunday that he expected a "good" outcome. "I have always told people, 'Listen to your conscience and vote accordingly.' I hope they will do that," Kilicdaroglu said. "I am happy, I cast my vote. Democracy in Turkey should be strengthened. It should be renewed. We will build it from the start. I trust my people. I trust their judgment." Brain drains while the heart stays: Is leaving Turkey an option? Turkish economic mess: How did it get to this point? CNN's Mohammed Tawfeeq and Fionnuala Sweeney contributed to this report. | NEW: Turkey's Prime Minister calls the vote a victory for democracy .
Rival parties claim victory in municipal races as authorities count votes .
Prime Minister Erdogan's government faces a wide-ranging corruption probe .
Erdogan has tried to shut down Twitter, Facebook and YouTube as outlets for critics . |
097f112f0659f109da337dd5048d155e0b0d5c20 | The most boring calendar for 2015 has hit the shelves - featuring the post boxes of Wales. Self-confessed 'dull man' Kevin Beresford from Redditch, Worcestershire, came up with the idea to celebrate post boxes which stand in the cities, mountains and valleys of Wales. It follows his 2014 calendar which featured the telephone boxes of Wales which became a best seller. The post box calender follows Kevin Beresford's 2014 best seller about the best phone boxes in Wales . Self-confessed 'dull man' Kevin Beresford said that the post office boxes 'things of beauty' and of historical importance . Mr Beresford, 62, said: 'People may think post boxes are a bit dull but I they are things of great beauty and of historical importance. 'You might think that all post boxes are the same but there are over 400 different types. 'The calendar has pictures of post boxes mounted on poles, set into walls, and pillar boxes standing alone on city streets, at the seaside and amongst flower beds on country lanes.' Mr Beresford visited some of the most important and well-known post boxes in Wales. And his favourite is a Victorian box in the village of Laugharne, West Wales, which he claims was used by Welsh poet Dylan Thomas. Kevin said: 'People thought my phone box calendar for this year was a bit dull but it became a best seller. 'I think of myself as an artist - the works of some of our greatest artists have celebrated every-day mundane things like Andy Warhol's can of soup or Tracy Emin's unmade bed. 'It might make me a bit dull but I love things post boxes - I see them as crimson iconic receptacles. 'And I am recording a slice of British history which is fast disappearing. 'People aren't using post boxes and telephone kiosks theses days because of emails and mobile phones.' Kevin has appeared in a calendar himself - he was Mr January in one featuring Britain's most dull men. He has previously published calendars called the Best of Britain's roundabouts and the Best of Britain's prisons. Kevin said: 'I live in Redditch which must be the most boring town in Britain and I've been married and divorced three times. 'I think you can probably guess why.' | Kevin Beresford said post boxes aren't boring 'are things of great beauty and of historical importance'
He has previously published calendars celebrating the Britain's best roundabouts and prisons.
Mr Beresford has featured as Mr January in a calender showcasing Britain's dullest men . |
097fd46c61c876c930a09750e9af2a79c13e2004 | The chef behind 'the world's greatest restaurant' has launched a pop-up version in Japan, with a tasting menu priced £440 - complete with a surprisingly delicious starter of still-twitching prawns... and ants. Chef Rene Redzepi's two-Michelin-star restaurant in Copenhagen has been voted the best in the world several times and now he has taken his talent to Tokyo. Noma Tokyo recently opened to great fanfare on the 37th floor of the Mandarin Oriental hotel in Japan's capital for just five weeks - with two sittings per day. Scroll down for video . Chef Rene Redzepi has taken his talent to Japan, with his pop-up Noma Tokyo offering a 15-course tasting menu that starts with a starter of prawns and ants (pictured) The three-hour and 15-course tasting menu costs 78,529 yen (£440) a head, including wine, taxes and service charge. And due to its success, it is now staying open a further two weeks until Valentine's Day. Perhaps this is thanks to the show-stopping starter, which critics have raved about - live jumbo shrimp served atop a platter of ice 'with a dozen or so tiny wild black ants'. Noma has used ants in dishes before, serving them with beef tartare at the Copenhagen restaurant, and diners in Japan are used to eating live seafood. Adam Pasick, writing for QZ, described the dish as 'jumbo shrimp, so recently killed that they are still twitching, served with about a dozen tiny black ants for seasoning.' Chef Rene Redzepi's (pictured left) restaurant in Copenhagen has been voted the best in the world several times and now he is offering Japanese diners a taste at Noma at the Mandarin Oriental (right) And writing in The Japan Times, reviewer Robbie Swinnerton said: 'They are superb, premium sashimi quality and so fresh they’re still dancing their final quivers. 'But it is the seasoning — “flavors of the Nagano forest” the menu calls it — that defines this dish. 'A dozen tiny wild black ants are carefully arranged on the shrimp, their little pinpricks of sharp acidity acting as a perfect accent for the sweet, pink flesh.' But it's not just the first course that proved a hit - as the reviewer adds that every dish 'is the product of intense, intricate preparation' and a 'radical combination of ingredients'. He adds of the 'prettiest' dishes features slivers of simmered pumpkin paired with salted cherry blossoms' and even the tofu course is a 'revelation'. A reviewer called one dish - slivers of the pumpkin paired with salted cherry blossoms - the prettiest . Danish Chef Rene Redzepi, who won the title World's Best Restaurant with Noma two years in a row, has moved to Japan for a five week stint in Tokyo . Foodies across the planet have been raving about Noma for years - with more than one dubbing it 'the world's best restaurant'. The restaurant, which is based in Copenhagen, serves Nordic food reimagined under the watchful eye of head chef René Redzepi. Noma's website boasts it is 'hoping to rediscover our history and shape our future' through its food. Diners are offered a 20-course menu, including unusual dishes such as beef tartare and ants, radish and yeast and reindeer moss and cep mushrooms. A meal at the two Michelin-starred restaurant costs around about £166, with wine pairing costing an extra £104. But it is worth it, according to the restaurant critics. Writing for the Daily Mail in 2010, Tom Parker Bowles concluded: 'Noma is utterly and gloriously unique. And quite, quite brilliant.' The Tokyo pop-up is the first time Redzepi and his team have ventured outside Denmark. It opened last Friday, and so far reviews trickling out suggest it will be just as successful in the east. | Rene Redzepi's Copenhagen eatery has been voted the best in the world .
Now the Michelin-starred chef has taken his talent to Tokyo with a pop-up .
The three-hour 15-course tasting menu costs £440 a head, including wine .
It kicks off with a starter of jumbo shrimp served on ice with black ants . |
09805b767995720aeb2bc992bc97bd548e90f5ba | A sex party dubbed ‘dirty Downton’ which was due to be held at a prestigious British manor house has been cancelled, after the historic property was taken over by new owners. Bovey Castle, a 64-bedroom retreat in Devon, was to host five nights of naked pool parties and sex shows next summer. Adult travel company shoesonly.com had hired the Grade II-listed manor house for its event, which had been billed as ‘Downton Abbey, only sexier’. Bovey Castle, a 64-bedroom retreat in Devon, was to host five nights of naked pool parties and sex shows next summer . But a hotel chain has since taken over the 100-year-old property and they say the raunchy antics conflict with their ‘core values’. US company Shoes Only chose the period drama-style setting because it is ‘steeped in romantic literature, a place of striking beauty and romance’. But a spokesperson for Eden Hotel Collection said: ‘The booking was made as we were acquiring the hotel earlier this summer and at the time we were unaware of the precise details of the proposed event. ‘Having investigated further, we have taken the decision that the event in no way fits with the core values of our businesses and have taken immediate steps to cancel the booking. Regulars of shoesonlytravel.com can sign up for the Lusty Loyalty Program, which gives users discounts . Bovey Castle was built in 1907 on the banks of the river Bovey for the second Viscount Hambleden, William Frederick Danvers Smith, but is now a luxury hotel and golf course . ‘Bovey Castle has always been a hugely popular destination for families and as the new custodians of the hotel we are very keen to maintain this and further enhance the experience for our customers.’ Bovey Castle was built in 1907 on the banks of the river Bovey for the second Viscount Hambleden, William Frederick Danvers Smith, but is now a luxury hotel and golf course. The castle has hosted regular guests since 1930, when it was turned into a hotel by the Great Western Railway, before being sold to the British Transport Commission in 1948. In the 1990s entrepreneur Peter de Savary refurbished the 64-bed retreat. It was in September this year when it was revealed that Shoes Only had booked out the castle for summer 2015, shortly after hosting a similar event in July this year. Around 100 couples had paid up to £4,800 to enjoy seedy romps inside the Jacobean-style manor and its 275-acre grounds. Around 100 couples had paid up to £4,800 to enjoy seedy romps inside the Jacobean-style manor and its 275-acre grounds . Swingers who signed up for the event were also offered free cream teas with regulars to the site able to get discounts through the Lusty Loyalty Program. At the time of advertising the event, the US firm's website boasted: 'We have arranged a private takeover of one of England's most spectacular and luxurious Castle Estates. Think a sexy and erotic Downton Abbey. 'Situated on 275 plush English green acres, our castle offers a dazzling array of pampering pleasures and exciting activities. 'We dare say that few have experienced the English Countryside in as romantic and sensuous a fashion that our 'Pleasure Castle' adventure in July 2015 will offer. The real Downton Abbey (actually Highchele Castle: pictured) is not affiliated with the event, but the American travel company had hoped to draw on the glamour of the era . 'Not only will all of the wonderful delights of the Castle be available to you but each day and evening will be filled with sensuous, fun and titillating events by day and night.' The five-day night party includes a 'sexy Renaissance fair on the lawn' and an 'erotic Au Natural closest to the pin challenge' and even an erotic golf competition. Guests can also enjoy tennis, hunting, fishing, an historic tour of nearby Exeter - as well as 'multiple playhouses including one with a dungeon and mistress'. Shoesonlytravel.com, which prides itself on delivering 'classy nude and swinger vacations', defended the party as a private event for 'serious' travellers. A spokesman said: 'Our criteria in selecting venues is to find beautiful five-star properties around the world which offer our members, who are all serious travellers, the opportunity to explore and visit wonderful and interesting places in a private setting.' | Bovey Castle in Devon due to host five nights of sex shows next summer .
The £2,500-a-head event includes naked pool parties and risque golf .
US-based adult travel company hosted similar event at the manor in July .
Eden Hotel Collection has since bought and taken over 64-bedroom retreat .
Hotel group say the raunchy antics conflict with their ‘core values’
Event in no way connected with the ITV period drama . |
0980f090aa14a73cd82a342d7329bcdbdc28984b | By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 17:44 EST, 13 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 17:47 EST, 13 December 2013 . A giggle, a chuckle or a full-blown guffaw, we’re told laughter is the best way to deal with the stress and strain life throws at you. But according to researchers, laughter might not be the best medicine – and could even lead to serious health complications. Scientists from Oxford University said a woman with racing heart syndrome collapsed and died after getting the giggles. According to researchers, laughter might not be the best medicine - and could even lead to serious health complications . And laughing 'fit to burst' has been found to cause possible heart rupture, a torn gullet and epileptic seizures. A quick intake of breath during laughing can provoke an asthma attack, while some people have suffered from incontinence and even hernias. Clowns were sent into a hospital as part of the research . The paper added: ‘It remains to be seen whether sick jokes make you ill and dry wit causes dehydration.’ During one test clowns were sent into hospitals to entertain patients. And the results showed a dose of 'genuine laughter' for a whole day could help shed the pounds by burning 2000 calories. And 36 per cent of would-be mums undergoing IVF treatment got pregnant after a visit from the red-nosed jokers compared to just 20 per cent in a control group. Tittering was also linked with lowering blood sugar in diabetic patients and reducing arterial wall stiffness, which helps relieve tension. The researchers say their findings challenge the view that laughter can only be beneficial but do add that humour in any form carries a "low risk of harm and may be beneficial". The paper was published in the Christmas edition of The British Medical Journal. | One woman with racing heart syndrome died after laughing .
University's research involved sending clowns to a hospital . |
098118782d5840f7d0e3af19316dc7ac3596fe3d | (CNN) -- Immigration reform returned to the U.S. political arena in 2010, three years after it was knocked down by a much-debated Senate vote. The issue drew national outrage and support after Arizona enacted a state law that allows police to ask for proof of legal U.S. residency. The law initially allowed police to ask anyone for proof of legal U.S. residency, based solely on a police officer's suspicion that the person might be in the country illegally. Arizona lawmakers soon amended the law so that officers could check a person's status only if the person had been stopped or arrested for another reason. Critics say the law will lead to racial profiling, while supporters say it involves no racial profiling and is needed to crack down on increasing crime involving illegal immigrants. Some Hispanic Americans support law . Arizona's Republican Gov. Jan Brewer, who's locked in a competitive re-election campaign, signed the bill into law and revived an intense national debate on what to do about illegal Mexican immigrants and undocumented workers in the United States. Brewer: Most Americans agree with me . The law has become an issue in a competitive primary race for U.S. Senate as Republican Sen. John McCain fights to continue representing Arizona on Capitol Hill. McCain co-sponsored the 2007 Senate immigration reform bill, which called for tightening border security and creating a path to citizenship for some of the nation's 12 million illegal immigrants. But faced with a tough challenge by former Rep. J.D. Hayworth, McCain has reversed his position on offering citizenship to illegal immigrants. The 2007 bill failed partly because many conservatives rallied against it, saying it offered "amnesty" to illegal immigrants. Observers have called the nation's failure to address immigration reform a travesty. In July, President Obama pushed Congress to pass immigration reform legislation before the end of the year. The president has described as "promising" an immigration reform plan outlined by Sen. Charles Schumer, D-New York, and Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-South Carolina. In a statement, the lawmakers said their plan includes "biometric Social Security cards to ensure that illegal workers cannot get jobs; fulfilling and strengthening our commitments on border security and interior enforcement; creating a process for admitting temporary workers; and implementing a tough but fair path to legalization" for illegal immigrants in the United States. Calls for reform; troops to deploy along border . Reaction to the Arizona law prompted Obama to enter the fray, calling on Congress to begin work on a new immigration reform bill. The president, who called the law misguided, has also ordered 1,200 U.S. troops to deploy along the Mexican border. The National Guard forces will help with drug enforcement and intelligence efforts until Customs and Border Protection can recruit and train additional officers and agents to serve on the border, an administration official said. McCain said the number fell short and called for 3,000 troops. Reflecting their outrage about Arizona's new law, nearly 30 organizations have agreed to join an economic boycott of the state's $18.6 billion travel industry, including the Rev. Al Sharpton's National Action Network, People for the American Way, the Japanese American Citizens League and the Service Employees International Union. Arizona students speak out on immigration law . Lawmakers from four other states have contacted the Immigration Reform Law Institute asking for help to draft language for bills like the Arizona bill. The group has declined to identify which states. The speaker of the Rhode Island House has said an Arizona copycat bill sponsored by a Democratic lawmaker will not be considered this session. Elsewhere, prominent Senate and gubernatorial candidates who've weighed in on the Arizona law include Florida GOP Senate candidate Marco Rubio, who supports the measure, and California Republican Senate candidate Carly Fiorina, who said she supports Arizona's "need to protect their citizens." Rubio has been accused of flip-flopping on his stance over the Arizona law. Meg Whitman, a California GOP candidate for governor, has come out against the law, as has Texas Republican Gov. Rick Perry. | Anger about Arizona ID law puts talk of reform back in political spotlight .
Other states considering similar law, which allows police to ask for proof of legal residency .
Obama criticizes law, sends troops to patrol Mexican border, calls on Congress for reform .
In 2007, Congress didn't pass immigration reform bill . |
098167b092c347962f15644ff07bb005e237500c | A Singaporean 'toy nerd' has spent the equivalent of hundreds of thousands of pounds and even lost girlfriends to a highly unusual hobby: collecting dolls. Jian Yang has decorated the living room of his otherwise rather spartan townhouse a vivid pink (Barbie's signature colour Pantone 219 C, naturally) in order to do justice to his collection of dolls, including 6,000 Barbies. In a floor-to-ceiling glass case in . the living room, Osama bin Laden shares a drink with Saddam Hussein as . Maleficent, the evil sorceress from 'Sleeping Beauty', Jackie Onassis . and Lady Diana look on. Elsewhere are Elvis Presley, Sean Connery as . James Bond and characters from 'Harry Potter' and 'Star Trek.' Jian Yang poses with part of his collection, which has taken him 20 years to amass, at his home in Singapore . Jian's passion runs the gamut of eras and styles; here he shows off a Osama bin Laden doll . The 6000 Barbies are just a portion of his doll collection, which is steadily taking over his townhouse . Yang now has a professional interest in toys and consumer trends as director of strategy at Omicom Media Group . The . 33-year-old allows his prized Barbies and 3,000 dolls of other kinds to . dominate three sides of the main room and spill over to fill nine . mirrored cabinets in his dressing room and the shelves of his study. He said: 'Incongruous is kind of me. When you meet me outside of this, I'm not that kind of guy. I'm not what you expect from a guy that collects dolls.' Although Yang now has a professional interest in toys and consumer trends in his job as Director of Strategy at Omicom Media Group, his Barbie collection began at age 13 when he bought the 'Great Shape' model in a turquoise Spandex gym outfit and striped leg warmers. 'Before I knew anything about social norms, I was a boy that watched this on TV, liked it and wasn't allowed to have one,' he said. 'As I grew older, got my own allowance, that's where I started getting the freedom to buy whatever I wanted.' His boyhood interest turned into a 'crazy obsession' that his friends support and his family has come to accept. Yang buys dolls when he travels for work and purchased 65 dolls during his last trip to New York . Rare Barbie dolls in the likeness of Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe (L-R) are displayed . Yang talks about the very first doll he brought; the 'Great Shape' model in a turquoise Spandex gym outfit and striped leg warmers . Jian Yang slings an accessory over the first doll that started off his collection . 'I'm very into collections, I'm very into amassing,' Yang said. 'I've also got the ex-girlfriends who get insecure about this kind of stuff ... They look at dolls and go 'OK, that's the competition', which is quite troubling but it's a reality.' The self-described 'toy nerd' reckons he has spent at least S$500,000 (£251,669) over the last 20 years on his collection, which also features hundreds and hundreds of dolls from the Bratz Girls, Monster High and Jem and the Holograms lines. Barbie, launched in 1959 by Mattel Inc wearing a zebra-pattern swimsuit, has sold more than 1 billion dolls . Sales of the dolls and related products did fall 12 percent in the April to June period of this year - the fourth straight quarter of decline - as tastes shift away from the traditional toy, but Yang maintains that Barbie is an icon that still has a future, although he admits 'the relevance is waning' as princesses and ballerinas give way to the ghoulish imagery and stories popularised by vampire movies such as 'Twilight' and 'New Moon'. A Farah Fawcett doll sits among other dolls: Yang says despite the size of his collection he has no plans to stop . 'That's where Mattel has taken it,' he said. 'They have taken the craze of ugly is hot and made Monster High because they know Barbie will never be the monster.' Hasbro Inc, Mattel's main competitor and a client of Yang's in his work, has made similar changes to its dolls. Yang's oldest Barbies date from the early 1960s, including one in a nurse's outfit with cat's eye glasses. But his passion runs the gamut of eras and styles, including Barbies in dozens of national costumes and editions with the likenesses of Grace Kelly, Barbra Streisand, Carol Burnett and Elizabeth Taylor. The rarest Barbie he owns is a model sold only in boutiques of the Comme des Garcons fashion label. 'My friend found her in Hong Kong and made an emergency phone call to me,' he said. Jian Yang admits that some girlfriends have felt threatened by his collection, seeing the dolls as the 'competition' The dolls now spill over from the living room to fill nine mirrored cabinets in his dressing room and the shelves of his study . Yang's collection also features hundreds and hundreds of dolls from the Bratz Girls, Monster High and Jem and the Holograms lines . 'I travel for work, I travel for myself, so I find dolls everywhere,' Yang said. On his last trip to New York, he bought 65 dolls. He is going there again this month and is sure to hit the shops. Yang also get dolls as gifts and buys them at auction and online. He has no plans to slow down, so what will he do when he runs out of space? 'I'll buy the other house,' he laughed, pointing next door. | Jian Yang has spent 20 years and over £251,699 on his collection .
As well as 6000 Barbie dolls Yang owns about 3000 other types of doll .
His 'crazy obsession' started when he was just 13-years-old .
Dolls now take up three walls of his living room, 9 cabinets and shelves .
Owns rare Grace Kelly, Barbra Streisand and Elizabeth Taylor dolls .
Some girlfriends have felt threatened, seeing the dolls as the 'competition' |
09820b1f0615c4d6407ff10f4c8d21a1bfb5ae51 | Washington (CNN) -- The White House said President Barack Obama supports reinstatement of a federal ban on assault weapons -- a position he took in the 2008 campaign but failed to press during his first term. "It does remain a commitment of his," presidential spokesman Jay Carney told reporters as the nation reeled from a mass shooting in Connecticut that mainly killed school children. An emotional Obama did not address that issue directly in a televised statement from the White House on the shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown that killed 26 people, but he said something had to be done. "We're going to have to come together and take meaningful action to prevent more tragedies like this, regardless of the politics," said Obama, the father of two girls. He wiped away tears when he spoke of the "beautiful little kids" killed in the massacre. Complete coverage on the Connecticut school shooting . Police recovered three weapons from the scene: a semiautomatic .223-caliber rifle made by Bushmaster, a Glock and a Sig Sauer, both handguns, according to a source with knowledge of the investigation. Others also spoke out for a strong federal response. "We cannot simply accept this as a routine product of modern American life. If now is not the time to have a serious discussion about gun control and the epidemic of gun violence plaguing our society, I don't know when is," Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-New York, said in a statement. Witness: At least 100 rounds fired . Congress approved a ban on assault weapons in 1994. The prohibition, which expired in 2004, did not eliminate them, but restricted their features, limiting magazine capacity to 10 rounds and regulating pistol grips, bayonet attachments and flash suppressors. Gun rights generally divide Americans. A Pew poll conducted after the 2011 assassination attempt on Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, D-Arizona, which killed six other people, found that 49% of Americans said it was "more important to protect the rights of Americans to own guns," while 46% said it was "more important to control gun ownership." But a survey conducted by CNN/ORC International in August shortly after the deadly theater mass shooting earlier this year in Aurora, Colorado, found that 76% of those surveyed believe "there should be some restrictions on owning guns." Tweets from the shooting . Obama supported a platform while running for president in 2008 that included reinstating the assault weapons ban, but has largely avoided the issue of gun control during his first term. He wrote an opinion piece two months after the Giffords shooting acknowledging the importance of the Second Amendment right to bear arms and called for a "focus" on "effective steps that will actually keep those irresponsible, law-breaking few from getting their hands on a gun in the first place." Obama said at a presidential debate in October that he wanted a "broader conversation" in general about reducing gun violence. "Part of it is seeing if we can get an assault weapons ban reintroduced," he said. The National Rifle Association, which advocates for gun rights, said in a statement that it would not have any comment on the Connecticut shooting "until the facts are thoroughly known." Kristin Goss, an associate professor of public policy and political science at Duke University and author of "Disarmed: The Missing Movement for Gun Control in America," said earlier this year that the pro-gun control side of the issue "has struggled to come up with a compelling narrative" to persuade more people to support stricter gun laws. "For a long time, these gun violence rates and massacres spoke for themselves. They relied on that to make the case but were up against a very powerful but very well-disciplined and skillful army that was good at taking those arguments apart," Goss said. Analysis: Why gun controls are off the agenda in America . CNN's Jessica Yellin and Tom Cohen contributed to this report. | Clinton-era assault weapons ban expired in 2004 .
Obama carefully avoided thorny Second Amendment questions during first term .
Three guns recovered in Connecticut; school shooting mostly killed children .
A tearful Obama urges "meaningful action" to prevent more tragedies . |
09822b77a9638e71c9d233c65d8de8ba00e02ce2 | By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 06:59 EST, 15 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 07:13 EST, 15 January 2014 . A dilapidated farmhouse with no kitchen or bathroom which is situated on land once used by soldiers defending Hadrian’s wall has gone up for sale. The two-bedroom 19th-century home in Gilsland’s remote countryside on the Northumberland border has a price tag of £700,000 despite the fact there are holes in the floor. Underheugh Farm and its 56-acre estate, which is just 500m from Birdoswald Roman Fort, has been put up for sale by English Heritage who bought the . property when they purchased Birdoswald Fort from the local authority 30 years ago. Inside the dilapidated farmhouse, which is situated in Gilsland's remote countryside on the Northumberland border and comes with no working kitchen, no bathroom and has holes in the floor . The two-bedroom 19th-century farmhouse at Underheugh Farm and its 56-acre estate has gone up for sale with a £700,000 price tag. Property consultancy Carter Jonas in Cumbria said it would need to be completely renovated . The run-down farmhouse is within a stone's throw from Hadrian's Wall. It has fallen into disrepair after being bought by English Heritage as part of a package to purchase Birdoswald Fort 30 years ago . Helen Lancaster, from property . consultancy Carter Jonas in Cumbria, said the estate has the potential to 'create a special home, rural business or unique retreat'. She said: . 'It’s an extremely unspoilt area and it’s very serene and beautiful. It . was tenanted 30 years ago and people can remember it being a working . farm. It’s got a beautiful courtyard and they can remember it being . lively and active. 'It’s a site of specialist scientific interest site and would attract Natural England funding.' The estate includes recently improved woodland, pasture and 1.3 miles of single bank fishing on the River Irthing. The nearby Birdoswald Fort sits up a bank from the house around 500m away and the estate’s land would have at one time been well protected by Roman soldiers patrolling the wall. The farmhouse has two bedrooms and original slab stone floors, but needs complete renovation and updating. The interior of the farmhouse is completely unlivable with holes in the floor and no working kitchen or bathroom. However, it does still have its original slab stone floors, stone sconces and quoin stones . The estate is situated on the Northumberland border on land once gazed upon by Roman soldiers defending Hadrian's Wall . Mrs Lancaster said it could be extended using the adjoining outbuildings which are set around a courtyard, and it also has former vegetable and flower gardens. A rare sandbank close to the river is also home to over 70 pairs of sand martins, and the estate’s ancient woodland has roe deer, great spotted woodpecker, blackcaps and willow warblers. The fort and Underheugh were bought as a package by English Heritage in 1984, with the farmhouse being left to fall into disrepair. The estate can be viewed on January 17. The farmhouse and 56-acre estate is in the heart of the Northumberland countryside and is situated just 500m from Birdoswald Fort . A rare sandbank close to the river is also home to over 70 pairs of sand martins, and the estate¿s ancient woodland has roe deer, great spotted woodpecker, blackcaps and willow warblers. Helen said: 'It is has the potential to create a special home, rural business or unique retreat' | Dilapidated farmhouse has fallen into disrepair after being purchased by English Heritage 30 years ago .
The two-bedroom farmhouse on the 56-acre estate needs 'complete renovation' despite £700,000 price tag .
It is situated in remote countryside on the Northumberland border where Roman soldiers once patrolled . |
098374731d92834f30e85e29558e123aca65e65a | Zurich, Switzerland (CNN) -- "Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passion, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence." -- John Adams, 'Argument in Defense of the Soldiers in the Boston Massacre Trials', December 1770. At the heart of the maelstrom that has gripped Pakistan during the past eight weeks since I authored an opinion piece on the nuclear-armed nation's alleged intelligence sector malfeasance against U.S. regional interests lies nothing less than the struggle to define Pakistan's modern statehood. It is a fight between the feudal politics of Pakistan's barons, President Asif Ali Zardari being chief among them, and the military's dominance of its industry, security and strategic sectors. Stuck in the middle is a largely uneducated, underemployed and malnourished population that yearns for leadership -- any kind of leadership -- to guide the country forward. That struggle, hidden from the world's view through the many years of dictatorship and moribund civilian rule, has now come out in the open as a result of my column's disclosure of a confidential memorandum that Pakistan's then ambassador to the United States, Husain Haqqani, directed me to draft and deliver to Admiral Mike Mullen, then chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff. [Editor's note: Haqqani has denied any involvement in the memo.] . Inadvertent as my purpose was in disclosing the memorandum, the debate it has touched off is real and the issues being debated are finally the ones that need illumination in a country that survives on a rich diet of conspiracy theories and the adolescent antics of its political leaders. The memorandum called on Mullen to dissuade his friend, Pakistan's army chief Gen. Ashfaq Kayani, from moving against the civilian government in the tense days that followed Operation Neptune Spear -- the U.S. Special Forces raid that killed Osama bin Laden. In return, it offered a commitment by a reconstituted civilian government, which would have added national security muscle previously belonging to the army and intelligence sectors, to do a lot of what America and its allies in the region, India and Afghanistan, have long been calling on Pakistan to do. To some in Pakistan, the memo was the product of an honorable civil servant (Haqqani) attempting to save his boss's government from imminent demise at the hands of military men he had come to despise. To others, the memorandum's contents were nothing short of high treason, the product of a ruthless operator's (Zardari) directive and his cunning collaborator's (Haqqani) compliance. The truth probably lies somewhere in between. Yet far from harming the democratic institutions Haqqani claimed to be defending when he first contacted me on that beautiful May morning, the debate over the memorandum's who, what, when and why has had the remarkable effect of stimulating forces that make democracy real in a civilized society, not the mirage that was being peddled around the halls of Congress, Washington's think-tank lecture circuit or the Sunday talk shows by the able ambassador. Today, nearly two months after the memorandum's contents became known, the army remains in its barracks. The intelligence services continue to play their Patriot Games in Afghanistan while minding the store at home with an invisible hand. Zardari, who said he would address a special joint session of Parliament on "memogate" sometime next week, had his heart condition resurface on Tuesday, sending him scurrying off to Dubai (Pakistani doctors and hospitals wouldn't do) for a stay of undetermined length outside the country. The Supreme Court has taken on the challenge addressed to it by a leader of an opposition political party who felt he couldn't get the "memogate" truth out of a biased Parliamentary committee. An Inquiry Commission has been formed as a result. A former cricket hero turned politician now routinely attracts tens of thousands of supporters at gathering points around the country as he tries to coerce the Arab Spring's winds to blow further east. And the chivalrous prime minister, Yousef Raza Gilani, tells his party loyalists that he is prepared to resign if my facts are proven right and Haqqani, or worse, Zardari, are found to be the minds behind the memo. Pakistan's press is also doing its job well -- the hacks who support Zardari, Inc. are throwing knives at me hourly while those who want to see Zardari get his comeuppance will simply not let the story go and are eagerly digging at and reporting on every facet of it. All of which means everyone -- finally -- has a stake in the outcome of an issue that could have brought serious repercussions to the country's method of accountability and governance if the doctrine outlined in the memo had been enacted. Hmmm...... seems to me that democracy is doing exactly what it should: Self-corrective actions with heated debate about principled issues, all within the constitutional framework and rule of law as it exists today. David Frum can call me all the names he wants -- it won't change the facts. It certainly will not deter me. And it won't help to fix what ails Pakistan. Peter Bergen can ridicule my three or four claims that turned out to be inaccurate over a five year period of being interviewed nearly four or five times a week -- it won't change the facts, or the accuracy with which I recorded them in this instance. The think-tank crowd and my detractors at the State Department, never ones to like private US citizens running off and doing what they only talk about or dream of being able to do, have always pilloried my efforts -- but their frustrations and jealousies won't change the facts. Even the White House didn't have all the facts when it issued a denial of my opinion that Pakistani officials knew about the bin Laden raid before it happened. Its fact checkers could not readily find the May 2, 2011 story from CNN reporter Nick Paton Walsh which reported that Pakistan's High Commissioner to the UK had said -- when asked about the bin Laden raid -- that Pakistan was "in the know of certain things" and "what happened happened with our consent." [Editor's note: Haqqani has been quoted as saying the allegation that he was informed of the raid in advance are "reckless, baseless and false."] . I have largely ignored the attacks emanating from Haqqani's supporters in Washington because the former ambassador can't speak for himself since being put on ice by Zardari in a safe house. But enough is enough. Haqqani should be offered immunity from prosecution in Pakistan and simply tell the Pakistani people the truth about what he -- and his boss -- did. He will be seen as a hero for having the guts to call a spade a spade. Rogue operations inside governments have no place in our world today. The people of Pakistan deserve better. They deserve to know the truth. And it is alone for the Pakistani people to decide whether their political leaders deserve their faith and trust after learning the truth of what has been done in their names. I did not ask to be involved in the events that gave rise to this firestorm. I too face threats and haranguing from Zardari's supporters on a daily basis. But I had the courage to speak truth to power -- as I have done all my life -- and now I'm going to make sure the facts of what the ambassador and those behind him asked me to do in the name of democracy are put squarely on the table for the people of Pakistan to see, judge and decide. Facts, after all, are still stubborn things. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Mansoor Ijaz. | Mansoor Ijaz: My disclosure of confidential memo touched off debate in Pakistan .
Ijaz's opinion piece in the Financial Times led to resignation of Pakistan's ambassador to U.S.
He says the discussion of the nature of Pakistani democracy is good for that nation .
Ijaz says an inquiry will bring to light the full facts of the matter . |
0984c583436436794de3081fa7d395fe1034d6f9 | By . Martha De Lacey . PUBLISHED: . 09:38 EST, 22 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 09:38 EST, 22 May 2013 . I owe Dr Deepa Apte, the gentle, softly-spoken medic-turned-Ayurvedic masseuse who slathered my whole body in fragrant sesame oil for an hour, a sincere apology. Some two-thirds of the way into my decadent session on her massage table, my consciousness suddenly plummeted into the most delicious state of sleep, prompting my leg (as body-parts are want to do when slipping out of wakefulness) to involuntarily spasm... kicking the good doctor in the face. It is testament to the power of her soothing hands and flawless technique that I managed so completely to leave life's stresses at the door of her North Greenwich day spa and drift off. The award-winning Ayurveda Pura practices the ancient Indian holistic medical system of Ayurveda - a 5000-year-old system of beliefs meaning 'science of life' and based on achieving physical and mental harmony with nature . But it also left me considering one of her full-body treatments ill-advised if your day's to-do list is as long as the Jubilee line: I left her spa deliriously calm, sublimely happy and went home to take a nice long nap. The award-winning Ayurveda Pura practices the ancient Indian holistic medical system of Ayurveda - a 5000-year-old system of beliefs meaning 'science of life' and based on achieving physical and mental harmony with nature. As a complete way of life, Ayurveda comprises diet, Yoga, massage, detoxification, herbal remedies, meditation and daily lifestyle, all aimed at improving a person's health, wellbeing, behaviour and state of mind. In other words: massages are essential. This is my kind of belief system. As Dr Deepa explained to me in her softly-scented room, Ayurveda sees everything in the universe - including humans - as composed of five basic elements: space, air, fire, water and earth. Ayurveda views illness as an imbalance of elements within a person¿s constitution. Its practice aims to restore balance and reinstate health . These combine as air and space (Vatta), fire and water (Pitta), water and earth (Kapha). And while every individual has within them all three forces, it is the concentration of each that makes up a person's individual constitution, or Prakriti. Ayurveda views illness as an imbalance . of elements within a person’s constitution. Its practice aims to . restore balance and reinstate health. And massage can do this. So, after holding my wrist and . determining my body type (Vatta-Pita: ambitious, hard-working, hungry, . medium build, often with a gap in teeth - all pretty accurate), Dr Deepa . lay me on her soft table. Unlike a deep tissue massage, a . Swedish massage or a sports massage, an Ayurvedic massage is a gentler, . smoother, more sensory experience. Instead of pumelling knots, cracking . joints and bending elbows the way they aren't meant to bend, Dr Deepa . slathered my whole body in comestible, herb-infused oils (in Ayurveda . nothing is put on your skin that cannot be put in your mouth) and swept . her palms over me, her hands never leaving my skin. Her touch - coupled with the soft, . plinky-plunky music, the warm, dark room and the soft bed - sent me . drifting off into sleep. Hence all the kicking. When the hour was up, Dr Deepa gently . woke me, allowed me to wash off the oil (she'd used enough to deep fry a . human whole) and poured me a fresh herbal tea while I showered, both to . rehydrate and to extend the glorious sense of calm and contentedness . for a while longer. As I floated back out into Greenwich . the world seemed somehow muted, less frantic and not quite so urgent. To-do list? What to-do list? Unlike a deep tissue massage, a Swedish massage or a sports massage, an Ayurvedic massage is a gentler, smoother, more sensory experience . Ayurveda Pura Health Spa & Beauty Centre, London, SE10 0BA, www.ayurvedapura.com 020 8312 8383 . | Ayurveda Pura is award-winning day spa in North Greenwich, London .
Dr Deepa Apte offers Ayurvedic treatments including massage . |
0985cf17e1d4d1cb7612a66efdf69eabb4f0836d | Broadchurch fans were left shocked last night after the programme aired a lesbian kiss between middle-aged women - who many viewers mistakenly thought were sisters. The passionate embrace between lawyer Jocelyn Knight and newspaper editor Maggie Radcliffe, atmospherically staged on the programme's iconic cliff top, was clearly meant to cause a stir among the 5.7million viewers. But fans appeared to be taken aback, with many under the impression that the two characters were related. Scroll down for video . Sisters? Broadchurch viewers were left baffled last night when lawyer Jocelyn Knight and newspaper editor Maggie Radcliffe shared a romantic kiss during a cliff-top picnic - despite many thinking they were related . The pair had been portrayed as friends throughout the series after Radcliffe, who is played by Carolyn Pickles, convinced Knight to take on the show's central case, the murder trial of Joe Miller. There had also been brief references made by Knight, played by Charlotte Rampling, about feelings for someone in her past - with no indication that the person was Radcliffe. But the kiss came after Knight arranged the romantic picnic and confessed her undying love for her close friend. She said: 'There was a moment, must have been 15 years ago, I should have said it then and I didn't. I'm in love with you Maggie.' When Radcliffe replied that the revelation was too late, Knight takes matters into own hands and leaned in for the kiss. As is par for the course with this series of Broadchurch, it was just a matter of minutes before viewers were sharing their disbelief on Twitter. The pair had become firm friends throughout the series after Radcliffe convinced Knight to take on the show's central case, regarding Joe Miller . Maggie Radcliffe (left) was left stunned after Charlotte Rampling (right) confessed she had been in love with her friend for 15 years . When Radcliffe says it is too late, Knight takes matters into own hands and leans in for the kiss . One person tweeted: 'Biggest shock of my life this week on Broadchurch I thought Maggie and Jocelyn were sisters', while another added: 'I thought them women were related?!' A third fan wrote: 'Literally thought Jocelyn and that journo were sisters. Massive plot twist for me!', while another viewer said: 'That lesbian kiss. We all thought they were sisters.' Even those who were better informed about the characters' relationship were still left baffled, unsure why the kiss had only happened in the penultimate episode of the second series. One viewer wrote: 'That lesbian kiss i have just seen on broadchurch is one of the strangest things i have ever seen.' The interaction sparked a flurry of comments on Twitter, with one saying: 'Biggest shock of my life this week on Broadchurch I thought Maggie and Jocelyn were sisters' Another wrote: 'Run out of plot ideas? Throw in an attempted drowning and a lesbian kiss. Writing tips via #Broadchurch.' Even Philip Schofield felt he needed to vent his frustration, simply tweeting 'Aaaaaaaaarrghhhh!!!! #Broadchurch'. The second series of the ITV cult show has already divided opinions between viewers, with many criticising legal inaccuracies during the trial. Last week, viewers were shocked to see a 'Fifty Shades of Grey' scene in which Lee Ashworth is seen 'strangling' his wife Claire. The pair's encounter took place outside in the ruins of a barn on the cliff tops where Ashworth is living. Fans also complained that they were finding it harder to understand David Tennant - because his accent has become 'more Scottish'. Even those who were better-informed about the characters' relationship were still left baffled - including Philip Schofield - unsure why the relationship was only explored in the penultimate episode of the series . The actor, who plays dour Detective Inspector Alec Hardy, received wide-spread praise for his performance in the first series of the acclaimed show. But a number of viewers have complained that they are finding it increasingly difficult to understand his accent ever since the second series got underway. Viewers also accused scriptwriters of adding in an unrealistic scene in last week's episode - table service from Nando's. Elsewhere, mother Beth Latimer, played by Jodie Whittaker, prompted ridicule when she returned to court to witness the trial of Joe Miller a short time after an easy water birth. Viewers accused Broadchurch of going 'Fifty Shades of Grey' following this charged scene between Lee Ashworth and Claire on last week's show . Meanwhile, a scene showing David Tennant being given table service at Nando's also sparked outrage . Viewers also criticised the fact that Beth Latimer (pictured) had returned to court to witness Joe Miller's trial just after giving birth . Last night's viewing figure was at 5.8million, a huge slump from the initial 7.3million who tuned in for the first episode of the second series. The criticism has led to Tennant to jump to the show's defence, saying the second series of the show is a victim of its own success. He said: 'I think we're a victim of our success to be honest. The first series was such an extraordinary thing. This country, we never allow lightning to strike twice in this country...we just don't let that happen. 'So, inevitably there was going to be a certain amount of "it's not as good as the first time". 'I think it is. I think it's a wonderful series that I'm very proud to be part of.'The revelation was made as the pair enjoyed a wine fuelled picnic atop a cliff top – as you do.' The series finale is due to be aired next Monday. | Lawyer Jocelyn Knight declared her feelings for editor Maggie Radcliffe .
Kiss unfolded after the pair poured open their hearts during cliff-top picnic .
The 5.7m viewers were left stunned because they thought they were related .
Others wondered why the kiss had been introduced in penultimate episode . |
098619cb62244b0ca247fd46ff2c1e483dfb76d0 | (CNN) -- More than 300 people on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship have become ill during a voyage, the Centers for Disease Control said on its website. According to the statement, 281 of the 3,050 passengers and 22 of 1,165 crew members of Explorer of the Seas reported vomiting and diarrhea. In a statement to CNN, Royal Caribbean International said those who fell sick have responded well to over-the-counter medication being administered on board the ship. Janet Diaz, spokesperson for Royal Caribbean International, told CNN that the ship skipped a planned stop in Haiti on Saturday and sailed directly to San Juan, Puerto Rico, where it underwent an extensive sanitizing. The agency said the cause of the illness was unknown. Diaz told CNN the use of special cleaning products designed to kill norovirus will continue to be used throughout the voyage. All responses are being coordinated closely with the CDC, she said. Noroviruses spread easily and are a common cause of gastroenteritis, which produces vomiting and diarrhea, according to the CDC. A CDC health officer and epidemiologist will board the ship in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, on Sunday to conduct an investigation, a health assessment and evaluate the response, the CDC release said. Explorer of the Seas left Cape Liberty, New Jersey, on January 21 and is scheduled to make stops in St. Thomas and St. Maarten. Dozens of passengers on cruise fall ill . Five things we've learned about cruising . After a bad cruise, can you cruise into court? From CNN's Janet Digiacomo . | 281 passengers and 22 crew on Explorer of the Seas report gastrointestinal problems .
People responding to medications, Royal Caribbean says .
Vessel undergoes sanitizing in San Juan, Puerto Rico .
A CDC official will board the ship Sunday to investigate . |
09861b49ebe1ac1374da93563b232bd43c4f8c5a | Manufacturers of antibacterial hand soap and body wash will be required to prove their products are more effective than plain soap and water in preventing illness and the spread of infection, under a proposed rule announced Monday by the Food and Drug Administration. Those manufacturers also will be required to prove their products are safe for long-term use, the agency said. "Millions of Americans use antibacterial hand soap and body wash products," the agency said in a statement. "Although consumers generally view these products as effective tools to help prevent the spread of germs, there is currently no evidence that they are any more effective at preventing illness than washing with plain soap and water. "Further, some data suggest that long-term exposure to certain active ingredients used in antibacterial products -- for example, triclosan (liquid soaps) and triclocarban (bar soaps) -- could pose health risks, such as bacterial resistance or hormonal effects." About 2,000 individual products contain these products, health officials said. "Our goal is, if a company is making a claim that something is antibacterial and in this case promoting the concept that consumers who use these products can prevent the spread of germs, then there ought to be data behind that," said Dr. Sandra Kweder, deputy director of the Office of New Drugs in FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. "We think that companies ought to have data before they make these claims." Studies in rats have shown a decrease in thyroid hormones with long-term exposure, she said. Collecting data from humans is "very difficult" because the studies look at a long time period. Get dangerous germs out of your home . Before the proposed rule is finalized, companies will need to provide data to support their claims, or -- if they do not -- the products will need to be reformulated or relabeled to remain on the market. "This is a good first step toward getting unsafe triclosan off the market," said Mae Wu, an attorney for the Natural Resources Defense Council. "FDA is finally taking concerns about triclosan seriously. Washing your hands with soap containing triclosan doesn't make them cleaner than using regular soap and water and can carry potential health risks. The FDA first proposed removing triclosan from certain products in 1978, the council said, "but because the agency took no final action, triclosan has been found in more and more soaps." In 2010, the council said it sued FDA to force it to issue a final rule. The new proposed rule stems from a settlement in that suit, according to the NRDC. The rule is available for public comment for 180 days, with a concurrent one-year period for companies to submit new data and information, followed by a 60-day period for rebuttal comments, according to the FDA. The target deadline is June 2014 for the public comment period, then companies will have until December 2014 to submit data and studies. The FDA wants to finalize the rule and determine whether these products are "generally recognized as safe and effective" by September 2016. "Antibacterial soaps and body washes are used widely and frequently by consumers in everyday home, work, school and public settings, where the risk of infection is relatively low," said Dr. Janet Woodcock, director of the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. "Due to consumers' extensive exposure to the ingredients in antibacterial soaps, we believe there should be a clearly demonstrated benefit from using antibacterial soap to balance any potential risk." The action is part of FDA's ongoing review of antibacterial active ingredients, the agency said. Hand sanitizers, wipes and antibacterial products used in health care settings are not affected. Most hand sanitizers have 60% alcohol or ethanol and are generally recognized as safe when water isn't available, Kweder said. However, health officials still believe washing hands with soap and water is the best method. | The FDA says there's no evidence antibacterial washes are better than soap and water .
Some data shows there may be long-term health risks from exposure .
Hand sanitizers and wipes are not covered by the proposed rule . |
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