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Ronnie O'Sullivan showed his annoyance at a photographer capturing the action as he was bundled out of the Wales open in the third round by Matthew Stevens. The defending champion had already stated his disapproval at the change of venue for the tournament, from the Newport Centre to Cardiff's Motorpoint Arena, saying it was 'like playing in a shopping mall', and his frustration boiled over again on Wednesday. O'Sullivan cast a photographer a glare after knocking the brown ball almost the length of the table and into the corner pocket. Ronnie O'Sullivan casts a disapproving glare in the direction of a photographer during a loss at the Welsh Open . The defending champion was miffed at the shooter and showed his frustration in the loss to Matthew Stevens . A stern stare and an open-handed wave indicating 'no more' in the direction the ball had travelled was followed by more shakes of the head and more imposing looks from the five-time world champion. The incident didn't impact O'Sullivan's game in the immediate aftermath, after he added to his first frame victory to take a 2-0 lead. But Stevens managed to come from behind twice to defeat 'The Rocket' for the first time in 12 years. O'Sullivan waved as if to say 'no more' in the direction of a photographer after sinking the brown ball . O'Sullivan led 1-0 at the time and won the frame for a 2-0 lead but ended up losing the match 4-3 . O'Sullivan took an early 2-0 lead before the 37-year-old nicknamed The Welsh Dragon took a tight third frame and then delivered an 80 break to square up the match. After O'Sullivan regained the lead with a 57-point clearance, Stevens came over the top of the current world No 2 and showed great composure to clinch the deciding frame for a 4-3 victory. | Ronnie O'Sullivan was beaten 4-3 by Matthew Stevens at the Welsh Open . The defending champion lost the third round match on Wednesday . During the match O'Sullivan showed his frustration at a photographer . The Rocket had already described the venue as like a 'shopping mall' | 4745c879917cd9049a8be715511902dbe0c665c7 |
Instincts: Couples should go with their gut feelings if they want to live happily ever after, a new study claims . If you want to know whether you and your partner will have a happy marriage, you should not let your heart or your head rule, it seems. For the secret to predicting the chances of long-term marital bliss is down to basic gut instinct, a study claims. Scientists have found we are better able to predict the long-term success of our relationship on a subconscious level, with lurking doubts a good indicator that trouble lies ahead. Psychologists conducted tests on 135 newlywed couples, then checked their progress over four years. They found the feelings participants expressed when answering a questionnaire about their marriage had little bearing on their consequent satisfaction with their relationship. But their gut instincts, revealed in series of tests, accurately mirrored their future level of happiness. ‘Although they may be largely unwilling or unable to verbalise them, people’s automatic evaluations of their partners predict one of the most important outcomes of their lives – the trajectory of their marital satisfaction,’ said lead researcher Dr James McNulty of Florida State University. The study, published in the journal Science, looked at emotions buried under the surface and whether they affected an individual’s responses. Photos of volunteers’ spouses were flashed on a computer screen for a fraction of a second, followed by a positive word such as ‘awesome’ or a negative one such as ‘awful’. Participants had to choose whether they viewed the word as positive or negative. ‘People who have really positive feelings about their partners are very quick to indicate that words like awesome are positive words and very slow to indicate that words like awful are negative words,’ said Dr McNulty. Analysis: Couples' sub-conscious feelings for each other were tested . The opposite was also true, the . researchers said, with participants who had negative feelings about . their partners taking longer to respond to positive words and less time . to respond to negative ones. This was the case even when the individuals were not conscious of their conflicting emotions. The couples were questioned about their level of relationship satisfaction every six months afterwards. Those who had revealed negative or . lukewarm feelings towards their partner reported the most marital . dissatisfaction four years later. ‘Everyone wants to be in a good . marriage,’ said Dr McNulty. ‘And in the beginning, many people are able . to convince themselves of that at a conscious level. ‘But these automatic, gut-level responses are less influenced by what people want to think. ‘You can’t make yourself have a positive response through a lot of wishful thinking. ‘If they can sense that their gut is . telling them that there is a problem, then they might benefit from . exploring that, maybe even with a professional marriage counsellor.’ | Couples' sub-conscious feelings for each other were tested in a new study . The Florida State University research analysed 135 newlyweds . It found that feelings expressed in questionnaires were fairly meaningless . It's sub-conscious feelings that have a bearing on future happiness . | fc17cb822623c4c17e78c198a4e07d086e75f469 |
By . Associated Press Reporter and Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 11:17 EST, 27 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:17 EST, 27 May 2013 . Rutgers President Robert Barchi is facing further calls for his resignation following the latest abuse scandal at the university's athletic program. Julie Hermann, who was hired as Rutgers' athletic director on May 15, quit her job at Tennessee 16 years ago over accusations that she put her volleyball team through a storm of humiliation and fear, a scathing report has claimed. Now, prominent New Jersey politicians, including former Governor Richard Codey, have demanded that Barchi steps down. Current Governor Chris Christie is said to be considering the issue. Scroll down for video . Under the microscope: Julie Hermann, Rutgers' new athletic director, says she doesn't remember the letter that accused her of taking jabs at her former volleyball players' weight, and calling them whores and learning disabled . 'A great university with great students and alumni deserve better,' Codey said. The Star-Ledger reported on Saturday night that all 15 of the Tennessee team members said Hermann called them 'whores, alcoholics and learning disabled.' They wrote: 'It has been unanimously decided that this is an irreconcilable issue.' 'The mental cruelty that we as a team . have suffered is unbearable,' the players said about Hermann, . Rutgers' new athletic director who had served as the No. 2 . athletic administrator at Louisville. Democrat State Senator and former Governor Codey told the paper: 'This is becoming Comedy Central. 'It's an embarrassment to the students and alumni of a great . university and it's time Mr. Barchi take his show on the road.' Current Governor Christie said on Sunday that he would speak to Rutgers officials about the controversial athletics department but didn't call for any resignations. 'Comedy Central': Former New Jersey Governor Richard Codey said the latest Rutger's scandal is an 'embarrassment to the students and alumni of a great university' Axed: Former Rutgers coach Mike Rice was fired on April 3 after a video emerged of him shoving players and berating them with insults and gay slurs . 'Listen, I'm as curious as anybody . and given my position, I get to ask questions more quickly than others,' Christie said. 'So I'll be asking questions and we'll see what . happens.' State Senator Raymond Lesniak also spoke out against Barchi and claimed that Rutgers' former president, Richard McCormick, should return to the school. 'I've had problems with Barchi before . this. He's just in over his head and not capable of giving a forthright . answer,' Lesniak said, according to the New York Daily News. The 49-year-old Hermann, set to take over the Rutgers' program June 17, told The Star-Ledger she didn't remember the letter. The newspaper said that when it was read to her by phone Wednesday, she replied, 'Wow.' Hermann, the first woman to head Rutgers' athletic program and one of three female ADs at the 124 schools that make up college football's top tier, has promised a restart for the program following the ouster of its men's basketball coach and the resignation of other officials. She is set to replace Tim Pernetti, who quit last month after the firing of basketball coach Mike Rice. Investigations: Governor Chris Christie says he'll be 'asking questions and see what happens' Angry: The video, which was screened by ESPN, showed several moments when Mr Rice angrily pushed, shoved and grabbed his players during practices . Admission: Tim Pernetti, pictured right with Rice, has admitted that his decision to suspend Rice in December - and not fire him - was the wrong move . The video showed numerous clips of Rice firing basketballs at players, hitting them in the back, legs, feet and shoulders. It also showed him grabbing players by their jerseys and yanking them around the court. Rice can also be heard yelling obscenities and using anti-gay slurs. The controversy went public in April when ESPN aired the videos and Rutgers President Robert Barchi admitted he didn't view the video in the fall. Rice was fired and Pernetti, assistant . coach Jimmy Martelli and interim senior vice president and university . counsel John Wolf resigned. Whistleblower: The video was provided to ESPN by Eric Murdock, a former NBA player who also served as Rutgers' director of player development from 2010-2012 . Anger: In this clip, Mr Rice, in white, is seen gesturing aggressively towards one of the Rutgers players . Slurs: In one portion of the video, Rice unloads a homophobic rant against one of his players, saying: 'You f***ing fairy! You're a f***ing f****t!' After a series of interviews with many of the former Tennessee players about Hermann, The Star-Ledger said: 'Their accounts depict a coach who thought nothing of demeaning them, who would ridicule and laugh at them over their weight and their performances, sometimes forcing players to do 100 sideline pushups during games, who punished them after losses by making them wear their workout clothes inside out in public or not allowing them to shower or eat, and who pitted them against one another, cutting down particular players with the whole team watching, and through gossip. 'Several women said playing for Hermann had driven them into depression and counseling, and that her conduct had sullied the experience of playing Division I volleyball.' The Star-Ledger asked Hermann about the players' lingering grievances. 'I never heard any of this, never name-calling them or anything like that whatsoever,' she told the newspaper. 'None of this is familiar to me.' Rutgers will join the Big Ten in 2014. The new boss: Hermann, the first woman to head Rutgers' athletic department, has promised a restart for the program . When push comes to shove: Pernetti insisted yesterday that he issued an 'appropriate' suspension after he was shown the tape and conducted an investigation into the matter . | Julie Hermann, who was hired earlier this month, is accused of berating Tennessee volleyball players about their weight and calling them 'whores' She replaced Tim Pernetti, who resigned last month after basketball coach Mike Rice exited in disgrace . Prominent New Jersey politicians, including former Governor Richard Codey, call for resignation of Rutgers President Rob Barchi . Governor Chris Christie says he'll be 'asking questions and see what happens' | b5038711f49fbcded759357e888cade56d94fd3c |
By . Tara Brady . PUBLISHED: . 14:06 EST, 30 April 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 01:56 EST, 1 May 2013 . The Labour Party has insisted Mr Livingstone did not directly blame the U.S. for the Boston bombings . Ken Livingstone did not 'directly blame' the U.S. for the Boston bombings, Labour insisted after Tory demands for him to be axed over controversial comments about terrorism. Mr Livingstone sparked controversy by suggesting the brothers who launched the attack on the city’s marathon acted 'out of anger and demand for revenge' over American foreign policy. US-born Conservative MP Brooks Newmark wrote to opposition leader Ed Miliband calling on him to condemn the remarks, made by the former London mayor on a phone-in on Iranian channel Press TV. He called for the Labour veteran to be removed from the party’s National Executive Council (NEC) over the 'disgusting' remarks that suggested the attacks were 'justified and excusable'. But a Labour spokesman said: 'The Labour Party does not believe that US policy is responsible for the Boston bombings and it would be inaccurate to suggest that Ken Livingstone was directly blaming the US for the bombings.' Mr Livingstone said on Friday in comments on the Tehran-funded channel that were criticised in the US media: 'Very often, people get incredibly angry about injustices that they see.' Referring to 'torture at Guantanamo Bay, at Bagram airbase', rendition, and 'ignorance in the Bush White House about Islam' as well as Middle East issues, he said: 'People get angry - they lash out. 'It’s the whole squalid intervention that has disfigured the record of the Western democracies. 'I think this fuels the anger of the young men, who - as we saw in Boston - went out, and, out of anger and demand for revenge, claimed lives in the West.' Mr Livingstone sparked controversy by suggesting the brothers who launched the attack on the city's marathon acted 'out of anger and demand for revenge' over American foreign policy . Tamerlan Tsarnaev, 26, left, who died in a shoot-out and brother Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, 19, right . Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, 19, is accused of carrying out the attack - which killed three and injured more than 260 last month - with his brother Tamerlan, who died in a shoot-out with police. In his letter Mr Newmark said it was 'wholly reprehensible for Mr Livingstone to link the Boston bombings to Western intervention in the Middle East. 'In doing so, he suggests that the actions of the two Boston bombers were justified and excusable,' he told Mr Miliband. 'I am sure that you will also agree with me that the only two people responsible for the bombings were the terrorists themselves.' Removing Mr Livingstone from the NEC would 'make clear that neither you nor the Labour Party condone such beliefs,' he added. | Mr Livingstone sparked controversy by suggesting the brothers who carried out the attack did so out of anger over American foreign policy . US-born Conservative MP Brooks Newmark has written to Labour leader Ed Miliband . He has called for the Labour veteran to be removed from the party's National Executive Council . | a48c874443f4b83e7ac917f3385e31542cf95321 |
Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga had one more surprise in his bag of upsets, beating second seeded Roger Federer 7-5 7-6 (3) to cap a scintillating march to the Rogers Cup title on Sunday. After knocking off world number one Novak Djokovic in the third round, taking out twice champion and eighth seed Andy Murray in the quarters and seventh seed Grigor Dimitrov in the semis, Tsonga denied 17-time grand slam winner Federer a landmark 80th career title. 'I played well all this week, I beat many good guys,' said Tsonga. 'It's a big achievement because I worked really hard to come back from my knee injury last year. Champion: Jo-Wilfried Tsonga lifts the Rogers Cup trophy after performing to win his first title this season . Sealed with a kiss: Tsonga celebrates winning the trophy over Roger Federer in two straight sets . Strong performer: The Frenchman produced his usual display of power and athleticism to win the trophy . 'Unfortunately there is no secret - behind this there is a lot of work. 'I'm waiting for this since couple of months now. I was looking for my best level, today I had it and it's great.' Certainly there was no disputing that Tsonga's win was well-deserved, the 13th seeded Frenchman's hit list including players who had won seven of the last 10 Canadian titles (Djokovic 2012, 2011, 2007; Murray 2010, 2009 and Federer 2004, 2006). It marked the first time since 2002 that a player had beaten the four top seeds to win a Masters series event. 'He beat great players along the way and backed it up with another great final,' said Federer, who turned 33 on Friday and had been hoping to celebrate his birthday by lifting the trophy. 'No excuses. I think he played really solid and well when he had to. 'I wish I could have played a bit better in the finals today. Together: Federer (left) and Tsonga played the final out with the beaten man saying 'he played really solid' Positive: Federer says he's had a 'positive week' despite falling at the final hurdle against Tsonga . 'There were things I could have done better, but, overall it was a positive week. 'I go away from this feeling good about my chances next week and also at the U.S. Open.' In 16 career meetings Tsonga had beaten the Swiss maestro just five times but three came on the Canadian hard courts. With Federer appearing in his fifth Canadian final and Tsonga having advanced to at least the semi-finals in three of his four trips to Canada, both men had a cool look of confidence as they walked onto a blazing hot centre court. In a week of superb performances, Tsonga may have saved his best for last, the second seeded Swiss unable to manage a single break chance the entire match. Federer did not allow Tsonga many break opportunities himself but the one he did, in the first set, was all the Frenchman needed converting the chance to clinch the set and a 1-0 lead. Play remained tight in the second with no break points, the set going to a tie-break won by Tsonga, who took four straight points after the breaker had been deadlocked at 3-3 . 'What is achieved is achieved and I will just continue on this way, continue to work hard,' said Tsonga, when asked about his U.S. Open chances. 'This win gives me a lot of hope for the rest of the year, of course. 'But I will continue to do my work like I did last couple of months and I hope I will continue to win.' Denied: Federer was in search of his 80th career title, but Tsonga won out in straight sets in the final . Delight: Tsonga can scarcely believe it after adding Roger Federer to his list of Canada scalps . | Frenchman sees off Federer in straight sets, 7-5 7-6 (3) Tsonga shocked World No 1 Djokovic and Murray en route to the final . It is the first title of the season for the World No 15 . | ed14ee3a6a85a60e558185c03a1dc3c028805660 |
At 33 years old, Jamie is trying to get clean. The native Bostonian started at a young age: drinking, then smoking pot, then taking pain pills and eventually heroin. "I never thought in my wildest dreams I would stick a needle in my arm," said Jamie, who didn't want his last name revealed. "Not in a million years." But the low cost, the readily availability and the prescription pill-like high makes heroin a draw that's hard to resist. "It's a monkey on your back that you can't shake," he says. If autopsy results bear out what officials suspect, actor Philip Seymour Hoffman will be the latest in a growing list of substance abusers who paid a deadly price for using heroin. In July, heroin (mixed with alcohol) took the life of "Glee" star Cory Monteith. In August, Emylee Lonczak, a 16-year-old Virginia high school student who'd never injected heroin before, died when a friend shot it into a vein for her. And last week, Maryland officials said that heroin tainted with fentanyl had claimed at least 37 lives since September. Another 22 cases were reported in Pittsburgh and other towns in western Pennsylvania. To be sure, heroin has been a scourge for a long, long time. But lately, it's showing an uptick that has authorities, health officials and parents disturbed. "Heroin is pummeling the Northeast, leaving addiction, overdoses and fear in its wake," said James Hunt of the Drug Enforcement Administration's New York Office. A 2012 survey by the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (PDF) found that about 669,000 people over age 12 had used heroin at some point in the year. About 156,000 of those were first-time users, and roughly 467,000 were considered heroin-dependent -- more than double the number in 2002. "I've been here over six years, and literally this is the first year that I can remember seeing this many people coming in here with an addiction to heroin," said Robert Parkinson, director of the Beachcomber Rehabilitation Center in Delray Beach, Florida. It's not at an epidemic level yet, he says, but "it's going to be there. ... It's that bad." Heroin remains comparatively rare, according to administration figures. By comparison, more than 31 million people used marijuana or hashish in 2012 alone, and another 4.7 million used some form of cocaine that year. But about 4.6 million people -- about 1.8% of the teenage and adult population -- reported using heroin at some point in their lives, the survey found. The average first-time user was 23. Here, we examine the reasons behind the rise in heroin use and its fatal draw: . It's cheap. Bill Patrianakos was hooked on OxyContin, a prescription pain reliever. He didn't just like it; he loved it. The problem was, he couldn't afford it. "I was pawning things: stealing from my parents, my sister, everyone who cared about me," he said. "Even that wasn't enough." So he moved on to heroin. It gave him the same high, he said, but at a fraction of the cost. "I started out snorting," he said. "And, of course, to conserve my money, I moved on to shooting it." The bottom line for users: Heroin is cheap. Part of the reason is the nationwide crackdown on prescription pill abuse, which has made those drugs harder and more expensive to obtain. In the first two weeks of 2014, police in Delray Beach, Florida, say, they seized more heroin than they did in the past 10 years combined. "People were getting pills for $10 around here, and now it's much more expensive," said Delray Beach Police Sgt. Nicole Guerriero. "People are now turning to heroin to get their high." And how cheap is heroin? "We've heard for as low as $6 a capsule," she said. It's everywhere. David is a self-described addict who doesn't want his last name revealed. His drug of choice is oxycodone. But he knows that when he can't get it, he can always score some heroin. "It's literally five minutes down the road," he said. "It's everywhere. Everywhere." Pam Anderson of Atlanta lost her college-age son to a heroin overdose. "In the college campuses what they are doing with it, is like they are just passing bowls of pills," she said. "They give it out for free to get somebody hooked. And then they start with a lower price on the pills and jack it up, jack it up as they are more addicted." Indeed, heroin availability rose in 2012, according to the DEA, most likely because of an uptick in Mexican production and traffickers expanding into new markets. Authorities are doing what they can to put a dent in those activities, but they have a ways to go. Between 2008 and 2012, the amount of heroin seized each year at the southwest border more than tripled. But pushers are getting creative. Last month, police said they arrested a McDonald's employee in Pittsburgh for selling heroin in Happy Meal boxes. It's potent. Heroin makes for a common substitute for prescription pills. But unlike pills, there's no way to regulate the dosage of heroin, given the undetermined purity. And that can be a fatal recipe. "Unlike with prescription drugs, heroin purity and dosage amounts vary, and heroin is often cut with other substances, all of which could cause inexperienced abusers to accidentally overdose," the DEA says in its drug threat assessment report for 2013. Between 1999 and 2009, 32 states saw an increase in heroin-related patients, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. But rather than acting as a deterrent, the drug's undetermined potency actually serves as a draw for some users. Last month, at least 22 people in western Pennsylvania died after using heroin that had been mixed with fentanyl, a powerful narcotic used to treat cancer patients' pain. The drug cocktails were being sold under harmless sounding names, such as "Theraflu" and "Bud ice." Andrew, a 19-year-old Pennsylvanian who didn't want his last name revealed, overdosed on the drug mixture twice and almost died. But he kept going back. It took his friend's overdose death to scare him back into rehab. "That's the sick thing about addiction," he said. "When someone knows that there are heroin bags that are killing people or making them overdose, then we know that those are the good bags." It's hard to kick. Last year, Hoffman told TMZ he strugged with substance abuse but kicked the habit for 23 years. But then he fell off the wagon. He started slowly with prescription pills and slipped into snorting cocaine. That experience is not uncommon. "Someone with opiate addiction, they are doing pushups their whole lives," said HLN's Dr. Drew Pinsky. "And they must work on it all the time. And even working on it, there's a high probability of relapse. And God willing, they get adequate treatment, and they re-engage in treatment, and things go well." "But often," he added, "it's a frequently fatal condition." | "It's a monkey on your back," says a man trying to kick the habit . Phillip Seymour Hoffman is the latest in a growing list of deaths . The number of users is rising, and they are getting younger . It's threatening to become an epidemic, says a rehab director . | 31d9de9cf2a8c9b68ec78f1f8d8ba717e32f12b7 |
Hong Kong (CNN) -- An honest taxi driver and forgetful passenger have left Hong Kong police trying to sort out who has a rightful claim on more than $250,000 in cash left in the back of a cab. According to a report in the South China Morning Post, police are seeking legal advice over the case which began in the middle of last year. A gambler returning from Macau reportedly left two million Hong Kong dollars, roughly U.S. $256,000, in the back of the taxi. The driver turned it into the police, who then tried to track down the rightful owner. Hong Kong law dictates that after three months, the police may return Hong Kong property to the finder. The taxi driver came forward at this point but the authorities declined to give him the prize, saying they were still investigating and would continue to hold the cash. But the forgetful gambler eventually spotted the story in a newspaper and came forward to collect the money after proving he was the rightful owner, the report said. He claimed he didn't report the loss because he didn't think anyone would hand the money in. "He was able to say the money was from Macau, the type of bag it was left in, and the material used to bind the wads of banknotes. He could also say exactly where and when he boarded and left the cab and other details," a police officer told the SCMP. Now the police have to decide whether the bemused cabbie has a case, or if the hapless gambler can finally take all. Huen Wong of the Law Society in Hong Kong believes in the end the owner will have a better claim to the money than taxi driver. Giving the goods to the finder after three months "is at the discretion of the police" and not legally required, he said. | Gambler returning from Macau reportedly left around U.S. $256,000 in the back of a cab in Hong Kong . The driver turned it into police, who then tried to track down the rightful owner . Hong Kong law dictates that after three months, the police may return property to the finder . But the police declined to hand over the cash saying they were still investigating . | be4a253bc73bf32ec9aadbb82dde979742e1281c |
By . Deni Kirkova for MailOnline . Pampered: Liverpudlian model Abbey Clancy sports the city's famed look . Liverpool has been named as Britain's most pampered city as scousers spent the most on beautifying themselves in the past year. It's perhaps unsurprising given the city is home to glamorous Wags including Coleen Rooney and Abbey Crouch, while Kim Cattrall also hails from Liverpool. The Merseyside city was closely followed in the poll by Edinburgh, with Manchester coming in third. Londoner came in fourth while another Scottish city, Glasgow, came fifth. Researchers ranked the UK's top ten most pampered cities according to how much they've spent on beauty treatments this year. The PromotionalCodes.org.uk study was based on the number of online vouchers and discounts used per head for each city. Liverpool topped the list, with scousers splashing out the most on pampering treatments. Researchers were also able to break the results down to identify the areas where certain beauty treatments were the most popular. Chelmsford came out as the teeth-whitening capital of the UK, whereas Newcastle was the top spot for fake tans. Birmingham topped the list for hair colouring whilst Glasgow was the number one place for tattoo removal. People . in Leeds spent more on getting their nails done than in other cities, . whereas Edinburgh took the number one spot for waxing. Glamorous scousers: Coleen, pictured with husband Wayne (l) and Kim Cattrall, keen supporter of home football club Liverpool F.C. (r) One woman from Liverpool said: 'It's great to think that I live in the UK's most pampered city. 'People . round here do spend a lot on beauty treatments. If they're not having . their teeth whitened, they're having a fake tan or getting waxed. 'I . probably spend between £50 and £60 per month on my beauty regime but . that can shoot up to well over £100 if I'm getting my hair coloured.' 1. Liverpool2. Edinburgh3. Manchester4. London5. Glasgow6. Birmingham7. Newcastle8. Sheffield9. Leeds10. Leicester . But it's not just the women splashing out. One male Liverpudlian added: 'It's frightening to see how much some men are forking out on beauty treatments. 'Some of my mates are even spending as much as their girlfriends. 'Me, I'm just content with a trip down the barbers, a nice smelling aftershave and a good bar of soap.' A spokesperson from PromotionalCodes.org.uk said: 'It was really interesting to see which UK city spent the most per head on beauty treatments and products. 'Liverpool will no longer just be associated with The Beatles, it will be recognised nationally as our country's most pampered city as well. 'Beauty regimes are expensive so using voucher sites is one of the best ways of keeping the price down.' | Merseyside city was closely followed in poll by Edinburgh and Manchester . Chelmsford came out as the teeth-whitening capital of the UK . Newcastle was the top spot for fake tans . | af5b709825e0e193e7b558d75815d75525a228c6 |
A 'high risk' convicted sex offender who has been accused of assaulting an 11-year-old boy at a synagogue has fled to Isarel. Former bar mitzvah tutor Yona Weinberg, 36, from Brooklyn, New York, who was convicted of molesting two 13-year-old boys in 2009, is said to have pushed the youngster against a shelf of prayer books in August. The alleged altercation came two months after the same boy reportedly told police he had been force to touch Weinberg's shirt and pants. Police arrived at the home of the licensed social worker to arrest him - but discovered he had skipped the country when his wife said he wasn't there, according to the New York Daily News. Fled: Former bar mitzvah tutor Yona Weinberg, 36, from Brooklyn, New York, who was convicted of molesting two 13-year-old boys in 2009, is said to have pushed the youngster against a shelf of prayer books in August. His two most recent mugshots are left (2014) and right (2013) The licensed social worker is believed to be residing in Har Nof, a hillside community in Jerusalem (file picture). Residents there have been warned of the 'high risk' sex offender's presence . However, as he has only been charged with a misdemeanor offence, prosecutors will not be able to have him extradited. Weinberg is a Level 3 sex offender and is required to check in with police every 90 days and verify his address. It is regarded as a felony if he fails to do so. In 2009 he was sentenced to 13 months in prison after he was convicted of molesting two 13-year-old boys. Child advocates in the Jewish Community are now furious he has managed to evade the charges and have accused District Attorney Kevin Thompson of taking too long to act. Chaim Levin told the Daily News: 'He’s making all of us who really campaigned hard for him look like fools. 'He seems to be playing politics. The outcome of this case is disgusting.' Lupe Todd, Thompson's spokesman, told the paper: 'In the event that he returns to New York, he will be charged. Weinberg has reportedly been telling his neighbors in the scenic hillside community of Har Nof in Jerusalem that the accusations are a big mistake. Child protection agency Magen, which is based in Israel, sent out a press release warning residents of his presence. Escape: Police arrived at the home of the licensed social worker (2012 left and 2010 right) to arrest him - but discovered he had skipped the country when his wife said he wasn't there . It read: 'Yona (Jason) Weinberg was convicted in June 2009 of 8 counts of sex crimes against two 13 year old boys and was sentenced and served up to 13 months in local prison. Weinberg is a registered sex offender under the New York State Sex Offender Registration Act. 'Weinberg is assessed by the NY Criminal Justice Services as Risk Level 3, which is the highest level and means: “high risk of repeat offense and a threat to public safety exists”. 'Weinberg is reliably reported to have left the USA in recent months after further similar complaints were filed against him with NYPD. 'Weinberg, to the best of our knowledge, currently resides with his wife and family in Har Nof, Jerusalem. The Israeli authorities are aware of the situation.' 'The public is urged to be vigilant and take appropriate measures to protect and educate their children, calmly and in a manner appropriate to their age. 'Under no circumstances should members of the public take the law into their own hands.If you believe that a crime is being committed by a sex offender, contact your local law enforcement agency immediately as you would do in any case of suspected criminal activity.' | Yona Weinberg, 36, from Brooklyn, New York, was about to be arrested . He is charged with pushing the youngster against a book shelf in August . When police showed up at his home, his wife told them he had left . As he is only charged with a misdemeanor, he can't be extradited . Served 13 months in prison for molesting two 14-year-old boys in 2009 . Authorities believe he is in the Har Nof neighborhood of Jerusalem . | 767ad3b10244764619d95ef9f4670c4983f40384 |
Violence wracked Yemen yet again Thursday -- this time in the form of dual car bomb attacks purportedly carried out by al Qaeda militants targeting fighters from the minority, albeit powerful, Houthi group. At least nine Houthi fighters died in the attacks on a strategic Houthi camp at the airport of western Yemen's port city of Hodiedah, a local Interior Ministry official and medics told CNN. Medics expected the death toll to rise as some of about a dozen people injured in the attacks are in critical condition. The bloodshed speaks to the dangers and instability in the Arab nation, though this time not involving anyone with the Yemeni government. Instead, it is Houthis -- followers of a sect of Shia Islam in a country where Sunni Muslims are the majority -- who find themselves in the fight. Based largely in northern Yemen, members of the group also known as Ansarullah have been increasingly asserting themselves in the country. This included weeks of large anti-government protest in the capital, Sanaa, during which Houthi fighters attacked state TV headquarters and seized strategic military positions. Yemen in midst of an upheaval . Scores died in resulting violence, and two Yemeni prime ministers resigned in two weeks before the powerful rebel group and representatives of major political parties signed a ceasefire in September. But even with that resolved, a Houthi adversary -- al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, a terror group whose members are Sunni Muslims -- remains. That group, also known as AQAP, claimed responsibility for Thursday's attack on its Twitter account. 20 children among 31 killed in car bombings . Thursday's violence marked the latest of scores of clashes between Houthi and al Qaeda fighters. The Houthis have managed to defeat al Qaeda on numerous fronts, including taking the terror group's stronghold of Radaa in October. Al Qaeda has stepped up its attacks on Houthi targets since then, killing hundreds of Houthis and innocent civilians in persistent attacks. | Dual car bombs target Houthi fighters in the Yemeni city of Hodiedah . Medics and a Yemeni official say at least 9 Houthi fighters were killed, and the toll may rise . Al Qaeda claims responsibility; it has stepped up attacks on minority Houthis of late . | f1db161f83903f3d3aaa05bf27ad415370da7eb2 |
It was hailed as proof of alien life, a mummified visitor from another planet. Ten years after the remains of a six-inch ‘space alien’ were first discovered, they have been confirmed as ‘human’ by Stanford scientists in a new documentary film Sirius. Since the remains of the small humanoid - known as the 'Atacama Humanoid' and nicknamed Ata - were discovered in Chile's Atacama Desert 10 years ago there has been much speculation about its origins. Theories have included that the bones were those of an aborted fetus, or a monkey, or even an alien that had crash-landed on earth. Scroll down for videos . A new documentary film Sirius has revealed that the mummified remains of a six-inch supposed 'space alien' are in fact human . Scientists say DNA tests have revealed the ususal remains to be human rather than alien . A comparison of foetus x-rays show a remarkable difference between human fetus skeletal development and the x-rays of the Atacama humanoid, the researchers claim in a report published today . Dr Steven Greer, who led the project and documentary, has hit back at critics who claim the body is a hoax. 'The CAT scan clearly shows internal chest organs -lungs and what appears to be the remains of a heart structure,' he said. 'There is absolutely no doubt that the specimen is an actual organism and that it is not a hoax of any kind. 'This fact has been confirmed by Dr. Nolan and Dr. Lachman at Stanford.' In the weeks leading up to Monday’s premier of Sirius, UFO enthusiasts had grown increasingly excited that the film could announce a major breakthrough in the search for extra-terrestrial life forms. Experts say the small skeleton certainly bears many of the hallmarks of what we have come to believe aliens look like, in particular a large head overshadowing a small body. According to Chilean local newspaper, a man called Oscar Munoz found the remain on Oct. 19, 2003 when he was looking for objects of historical value in La Noria, a ghost town in the Atacama Desert. Near an abandoned church, Munoz found a white cloth containing, according to the newspaper, ‘a strange skeleton no bigger than 15cm [the size of a pen]. It was a creature with hard teeth, a bulging head with an additional odd bulge on top. Its body was scaly and of dark color. Unlike humans, it had nine ribs. A DNA sample from bone marrow extracted from the specimen, was analyzed by scientists at a prestigious American university . Scientists believe the unusual skeleton is human, yet it has nine ribs . 'After six months of research by leading scientists at Stanford University, the Atacama Humanoid remains a profound mystery,' said physician and Disclosure Project founder Dr. Steven Greer. 'We traveled to Barcelona Spain in late September 2012 to obtain detailed X Rays, CAT scans and take genetic samples for testing at Stanford University. 'We obtained excellent DNA material by surgically dissecting the distal ends of two right anterior ribs on the humanoid. 'These clearly contained bone marrow material, as was seen on the dissecting microscope that was brought in for the procedure,' Sirius premiered in Los Angeles on Earth Day and will be released online and in select theaters worldwide, starting April 22 . The humanoid was first discovered in 2003 in the remote Atacama desert region of Chile . In the new documentary, a DNA sample from bone marrow extracted from the specimen, was analyzed by scientists at a prestigious American university. They concluded that it was an 'interesting mutation' of a male human that had survived post-birth for between six and eight years. ‘I can say with absolute certainty that it is not a monkey. 'It is human - closer to human than chimpanzees. It lived to the age of six to eight,’ said Garry Nolan, director of stem cell biology at Stanford University's School of Medicine in California. 'Obviously, it was breathing, it was eating, it was metabolizing. 'It calls into question how big the thing might have been when it was born.' The small skeleton bears many of the hallmarks of what we have come to believe ETs look like, in particular a large head overshadowing a small body . ‘The DNA tells the story and we have the computational techniques that allows us to determine, in very short order, whether, in fact, this is human,’ Nolan, who performed the DNA tests, explains in the film. In addition to studying the origins of Ata, Sirius explores the subject of UFO and ET visitation, the disclosure of secret UFO files, and the investigation of advanced energy and propulsion technologies extra-terrestrial civilizations are using to travel to Earth. Based on evidence gathered over the past 20 years by physician and Disclosure Project founder Dr. Steven Greer, Sirius reveals how and why these energy technologies are being suppressed in favor of maintaining the current petrochemical system. Sirius premiered in Los Angeles on Earth Day and will be released online and in select theaters worldwide, starting April 22. Scientists concluded that the skeleton was an 'interesting mutation' of a male human that had survived post-birth for between six and eight years . | 10 years ago the bones of a six-inch skeleton with a large head were found in Chile . There was speculation that the Atacama humanoid, nicknamed Ata, was either an aborted fetus, a monkey or even an alien . Now scientists at Stanford University have carried out conclusive DNA tests which have found the remains are those of a mutated human . | 9be8a50dd00354d83e74fa4d7d4f10fef45b9eb1 |
(CNN) -- After what it calls a successful first campaign, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is launching a second anti-smoking campaign featuring tips from former smokers. "They're real-life stories that will save lives and save money, that will have a huge health impact by highlighting the real-life stories of people harmed by tobacco and highlighting the fact that secondhand smoke also kills, also disables, also causes tremendous suffering," Dr. Tom Frieden, the CDC's director, said Thursday. The "Tips From Former Smokers" campaign, which launches Monday, includes ads featuring people such as Tiffany, 35. Tiffany says she was 16 when her mother died from lung cancer, but she also started smoking. She says the thought of not being there for her daughter challenged her to quit. "I could not take the chance of continuing smoking and not being here for my daughter. I know how much I needed my mom still, and I didn't realize it until I had lost her," Tiffany says in the ads. Another ad shows Terrie, 52, who was diagnosed at 40 with oral and throat cancers and had her larynx removed. In a croaking voice, she tells viewers, "I have a tip for you. Make a video of yourself, before all this happens, read a children's storybook or sing a lullaby. I wish I had. The only voice my grandson's ever heard is this voice." Quit smoking: Your heart will thank you . A second ad features Tiffany and her daughter, Jaelin. With tears streaming down her face, Jaelin says to her mother, "And just to think about me not having a mom and having to take care of you, I just can't imagine how anybody can be strong enough to do that ... and I'm very proud of you." This year's ads also feature members of ethnic groups such as American Indian and Alaskan natives, who were not featured in the first campaign but have higher-than-average smoking rates, according to Frieden. Tobacco remains the leading preventable cause of death in the United States, according to the CDC, affecting 8 million people and triggering $200 million a year in health care costs. An estimated 1,200 people die from tobacco use daily. After the first "Tips" campaign last year, the number of people calling the quit line increased by 200,000, Frieden said. "There's very strong scientific evidence that ads like this make a big difference in encouraging people to quit," he said, "and a larger number of people do quit long term because of the ads. That's been well documented internationally as well as nationally." The CDC also encourages those looking to quit to take advantage of medication that might help them. It doubles or triples the likelihood of success, Frieden said. "We do these messages, we do these campaigns for one simple reason -- they work," Frieden said. "They save lives, and they save money." FDA changes course on graphic warning labels for cigarettes . | A new "Tips From Former Smokers" campaign kicks off Monday . The CDC says the first campaign was successful . The ads will feature real-life stories from people harmed by tobacco . | 788caab0380b5e4681271a1fda90007cfc50bac2 |
West Ham have joined QPR by expressing an interest in . Marseille midfielder Mathieu Valbuena. The 29-year-old France international midfield schemer is . available for around £7million but is keen on a move to Spain. Despiet being a key part of Didier Deschamps' side in World . Cup, Valbuena is not wanted by new Marseille manager Marcelo Bielsa. Pocket rocket: Mathieu Valbuena has attracted interest from West Ham and QPR . Marseille had agreed a fee with Dinamo Moscow but the player . refused to go. West Ham formally announced the signing of striker Enner . Valencia from Pachuca on Tuesday, their fifth signing of the summer. With . club-record signing Andy Carroll ruled out for four months following . surgery on an ankle injury, Sam Allardyce was desperate for a boost to . his fortunes and with three goals in three games at the World Cup . Valencia could be news he needed. Valencia, 24, joins on a five-year contract after attracting attention from around Europe. Upton spark: West Ham have confirmed the signing of Enner Valencia . | West Ham and QPR are interested in signing Mathieu Valbuena . Marseille playmaker is available for around £7m but wants La Liga move . Valbuena was part of the France team that reached World Cup quarter-finals . The Hammers have confirmed the signing of Ecuador's Enner Valencia . | 4921efefd93591441751b43eeb5d65b5f9f008e2 |
By . Neil Sears . PUBLISHED: . 16:59 EST, 12 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 17:19 EST, 12 May 2013 . She was on the verge of becoming a Lady – and frequenting the nation’s stately homes with her Eton-educated husband. But it seems Zeaphena Badley, 31, has been anything but ladylike since her aristocrat ex-fiance the Hon Nicholas Knatchbull called off their wedding. Instead of visiting Buckingham Palace to meet the Royal Family, friends of her former in-laws to be, she has been attacking police, shouting abusively about the Queen, and staying in one of Her Majesty’s prisons. Smoking: Pregnant Zeaphena Badley outside court. She has been found guilty of assaulting three police officers . Badley, who was engaged for 18 months to Knatchbull, also known as Lord Romsey and in line to inherit a £100million fortune, appeared before magistrates last week. She had earlier been found guilty of assaulting three police officers, punching, kicking and spitting at them while apparently on drugs at Notting Hill Carnival in August. The portrait of a lady presented in court was, in the words of one victim, of a ‘vile and disgusting individual intent on attacking as many police officers as possible’. It certainly confirmed Badley’s declaration to the Daily Mail last year that: ‘I’m not like Kate Middleton, not at all.’ The court heard Badley had been a guest at Knatchbull’s 60-room Broadlands estate in Hampshire, but is now ‘sofa surfing’ at friends’ London flats and using soup kitchens. Following the attack – shortly after her engagement ended – she spent 35 days in Holloway prison in London. In her latest court appearance, . magistrates heard that the mother of two was seven months pregnant and . she was given a suspended six-month sentence and 12 months’ probation . with 20 compulsory ‘structured supervision for women’ sessions. Happier times: Badley and former fiance Nicholas Knatchbull, who is heir to a £100million title . Stately home: Knatchbull's 60-room Broadlands estate in Romsey, Hampshire . Her mingling with the upper class does not appear to have taught her manners. She was late for her first hearing, and on hearing the guilty verdict shouted at the district judge: ‘F****** a*******. I’m seven months pregnant. There is no justice in this country.’ Outside she smoked a cigarette despite her pregnancy, ignoring a prominent no smoking sign. Her former fiance, 32, is himself no stranger to the seamier side of life. After Eton, where he helped mentor Prince William, a family friend, he sank into drug addiction. He attended rehab before meeting half-Jamaican Badley. Their engagement emerged in 2010. He is now engaged again, with nurse Raz Tedros, 28, set to be the 9th Baroness Brabourne. At Badley’s trial at Hammersmith Magistrates’ Court last month, prosecutor Paul Mitchell described her assault on police officers Stephanie Grayson, Maggie Saliwell and John Taylor: ‘The defendant was shouting, “What the f*** are you doing?” and turned to officer Grayson and punched her cheek.’ New love: Nicholas Knatchbull, the godson of Prince Charles, with his fiancee Raz Tedros, a 28-year-old nurse . He added she ‘spat at officer Saliwell’s face and then kicked her’, shouting: ‘Only Jah can judge me now. There is no Queen, she’s not real, so there are no laws.’ Badley called one officer an ‘ugly bitch’ and tried to bite another. He said: ‘The officers believed she was under the influence of drugs.’ Miss Saliwell said: ‘She was a vile, disgusting individual intent on attacking as many police officers as possible and showed no remorse.’ The drug addict and chain smoker had already been convicted of assaulting two police officers last year. Badley denied the offences, claims she was assaulted, and plans to appeal. Magistrate Andy Robinson told her: ‘You have shown no remorse. Your previous record is horrendous.’ | Zeaphena Badley, 31, was set to marry aristocrat Nicholas Knatchbull . But since the wedding was called off she has assaulted police officers . Heavily pregnant Badley had no qualms about smoking outside court . | 6bd35618f2ca420ea9f781c7f8dd00cd4be9ca04 |
Gary Neville believes Manchester United are several players short of having a squad capable of winning the Barclays Premier League this season. After a disastrous campaign in which United finished seventh under David Moyes, new manager Louis van Gaal has brought Luke Shaw and Ander Herrera to Old Trafford. But Neville insists they still need a right back and another midfielder before they can claim to be legitimate challengers. VIDEO Scroll down to watch United target Daley Blind score a 30 yard beauty against Utrecht . New additions: Manchester United have brought Luke Shaw (left) and Ander Herrera this summer . 'Unless two or three players come in I don't think it's realistic that he [Van Gaal] can win the league this year,' he told Sky Sports. 'Although there is a potential with what Liverpool did in the fact they had free weeks of Saturday to Saturday, continual perfect preparation. That's a big advantage for United if they get onto some momentum. 'In Chicharito, [Wayne] Rooney, [Robin] Van Persie and [Danny] Welbeck, they have still got, I think, probably the best strikers in the league as a pool. 'If they can get the back right and find a solution in midfield – [Michael] Carrick's out for two or three months so they need to sign another top midfield player – and stay injury-free then they do have a chance.' United begin their Premier League campaign at home to Swansea on Saturday. VIDEO Van Gaal wants reinforcements . Sharp shooter: Wayne Rooney has impressed in pre-season following a disappointing World Cup for England . | Manchester United have signed Ander Herrera and Luke Shaw this summer . Louis van Gaal's side have had an impressive pre-season . But Gary Neville believes they are short of a right back and midfielder . Old Trafford legend does not think United are ready to win the league . Sky Sports pundit does think they have the strongest attack, however . | d5fe1e2f99d392b699ba0697d5ce3ea71584aba9 |
By . Laura Kemp . PUBLISHED: . 16:38 EST, 22 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 09:15 EST, 23 January 2014 . After spending just 30 minutes at my desk, I'm already rosy-cheeked and glowing. Not from the joy of settling down to get some work done on my latest novel, but because I'm using the very latest fitness import from the U.S. as I type. Treadmill desks - a small treadmill you plonk under your existing desk, or a table with an inbuilt one - have gone down such a storm with big corporations like Google and Facebook that they are now making their way over here. Set at about 2mph (the pace of a slow walk) they burn up to 150 calories an hour while not distracting you from your work. Their soaring popularity is thanks to growing research that says sitting down all day is killing us. Just last week a study found that middle-aged women who are inactive for 11 hours a day are 12 per cent more likely to die prematurely and nearly 30 per cent more at risk from heart disease. Scroll down for video . Walk while you work: Laura tests out the Office Fitness desk . Sitting affects the body in a number of negative ways. For a start, your calorie-burning rate plunges by a third to around one calorie a minute, and you produce fewer of the enzymes that affect how fat is stored and sugar processed, leading to weight gain. High blood pressure, some cancers, diabetes and even depression have all been linked to sedentary lifestyles. And thanks to computers, TVs, laptops and cars, the average person now spends 12 hours a day sitting down. Add seven hours of being horizontal while we sleep, and that leaves very little time for being upright. So could these radical new work stations be the answer? As a 39-year-old, work-from-home mum who struggles to find time to go to the gym - or even leave the house - I jump at the chance to try the Office Fitness desk (£899). I'm 5ft 4ins and 9st 7lbs so I could do with shifting a few pounds, and sitting leaves me feeling lethargic and bloated. My enthusiasm dims somewhat after two fiddly, expletive-ridden hours of assembling the thing in my lounge. But once I've stepped on to the treadmill, which stands under a height-adjustable desk in place of a chair, my excitement began to build. Job training: Standing up for three hours a day, five days a week, will burn 750 extra calories, which over a year equates to running ten marathons . Like mothers the world over, I'm used to juggling several tasks at once, but work and exercise is a new one for me. With a '3-2-1', the monitor provided a countdown and I was off on a 2 mph stroll. Admittedly that's very slow, but any faster and it would be impossible to tap away on the keyboard at the same time, and I would probably fall off the treadmill from the effort of coordinating brain and legs. It takes me about 15 minutes to get used to the motion, and each time I lose my balance, I have to hold on to the desk and spend a few minutes correcting my mistakes from hitting the wrong keys. It's a lot like learning to drive - trying to move your feet independently of your hands. There is also the problem of dizziness when you step off the treadmill, but that is short-lived. However, that night, I slept far better, found it easier to get up in the morning and felt far calmer during the day. Hard labour . The treadmill was invented in 1818 as a 'human hamster wheel' to punish prisoners . By day three, that initial vertigo had been replaced by a feeling of real achievement as I dismounted, knowing I'd woven some exercise into my busy day without much effort or disruption. In fact, I'd walked a total of 15 miles without even realising it. When you've got the hang of it, you don’t forget you're walking on a treadmill, but it feels totally normal. It's only when a child or husband walks in laughing at the sight of you that you realise you do look a little ridiculous. It's a small price to pay, however, for being able to burn off biscuits tone muscles, improve posture and boost metabolism. The statistics are impressive: standing up for three hours a day, five days a week, will burn 750 extra calories, which over a year equates to running ten marathons. Apparently there are benefits to your mind and productivity, too. Working at a standing desk can apparently increase your output by 10 per cent because your mind is more focused when your body is upright. Winston Churchill, Ernest Hemingway and Benjamin Franklin were all advocates, albeit without any treadmill device underneath. I certainly found my work rate increasing - when I would have taken a break if I'd been sitting at a desk, I felt so caught up in the rhythm of the treadmill that I carried on. The noisy whirr of the belt slid into the background after a while, and I was able to immerse myself in my writing. But since you're advised to spend no more than two to three hours a day on the treadmill because of the risk of repetitive strain injury, I eventually had to step off. Our writer soon got the hang of working and walking but the equipment is bulky to keep in a house . My apparatus is just one of the many products exploding on to the market after the American Medical Association recommended businesses offered their employees alternatives to sitting. Now there are standing and bike desks, Swiss ball chairs and even table-tennis meeting tables. Google is one company in California's Silicon Valley that offers its staff alternatives to seats. Facebook is another, with design recruiter Greg Hoy telling the Wall Street Journal that workers' energy levels soared when they used standing desks, and his own 3pm energy slump had long gone. But it's likely we'll have to wait a while for most British bosses to see standing at work as anything other than a gimmick. The ultimate test is whether I'd I buy one of these gadgets myself. If I was lucky enough to live in a mansion, the answer would be yes, because size is definitely the issue. The desk I tried was super-heavy and 1.8m long. It needs a permanent home, preferably in a spare room-cum-office, and its beech finish won't be to everyone's taste. But having it in the house does encourage other family members to use it and improve their fitness, too. I even caught my six-year-old son, Paddy, having a go while playing on the iPad. Once the novelty had worn off though, he wasn't at all pleased that his 'football pitch' - otherwise known as the lounge - had disappeared under this unwieldy contraption. A quick word of advice for anyone taking the plunge - remember to tell anyone who phones you that you're on a treadmill in case they think they've caught you in a marital tryst. And if you're going to drink coffee, invest in a tightly lidded mug. Laura Kemp's new book, Mums On Strike, is out now, published by Arrow, for £7.99 . | Apparatus is a small treadmill you put under your existing desk . Allows you to workout as you work . Facebook and Google among companies providing such alternative desks . Writer and mother Laura Kemp put one to the test . | 1f8de215e38bf292c8f445a52c1111c71c0884c9 |
By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 12:56 EST, 28 July 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 02:47 EST, 29 July 2013 . Architectural genius or barking mad? Idaho's Dog Bark Park Inn, a bed & breakfast guesthouse inside the World's Biggest Beagle, is the pet project of married chainsaw artists Dennis Sullivan and Frances Conklin. The pair built 30-foot-high 'Sweet Willy' in 1997, funded through sales of miniature dog carvings. Scroll down for video . Howling success: Idaho's Dog Bark Park Inn is a bed & breakfast guesthouse inside the World's Biggest Beagle . Pet project: Husband and wife chainsaw artists Dennis Sullivan and Frances Conklin built their beagle inn in 1997 . Needless to say - the Trojan-horse style abode is very dog-friendly. According to their Facebook page, the B&B proprietors 'created Dog Bark Park as a venue to make, display and sell their chainsaw sculptures.' They then decided to build the two big beagles, Sweet Willy and 12-foot-high Toby, 'to add to the dog theme of their work.' The dog lovers have said they chose the beagle for their architectural feat because it was a safe bet. 'It was the first breed of dog Dennis started carving 28 years ago and it remains a best-seller all this time,' Conklin told BBC. 'Plus, it is a politically correct breed since there are no horror stories about it.' Sweet Willy sleeps four, with a queen bed in the main section and two twin futons in . the head, all decked out with canine-inspired furnishings. Guests enter the beagle's . body from a private second story deck, and are treated to dog-shaped biscuits left on their pillows. Sweet Willy is open from April 1 to October 31 as a guesthouse, but generally open year-round for visitors who just want to check out the Cottonwood park. Barking mad: Some of the dog's decorative furnishings are carvings by Dog Bark Park chainsaw artists Dennis Sullivan and Frances Conklin . Special touches: The canine carvings of Dennis Sullivan and Frances Conklin are dotted around the estate . Sweet Willy: It took the owners nearly three years to build this massive beagle . The sprawling Dog Bark Park is located in the heart of Idaho's Camas Prairie, 'where wheat, barley, canola, blue grass and hay are the dominant crops' | Idaho's Dog Bark Park Inn is a bed & breakfast guesthouse inside the World's Biggest Beagle . Chainsaw artists Dennis Sullivan and Frances Conklin built it in 1997, funded from sales of chainsaw wood carvings . | 6ba460d56eb06bfd31a3ec75617bceebb69cbeae |
After a slow start to the season followed by a lengthy injury lay-off, some Arsenal fans were beginning to doubt the abilities of German playmaker Mesut Ozil. Following a long, and ultimately successful, World Cup campaign, Ozil had failed to hit the ground running when he returned to North London. But since recovering from a knee injury which kept him out of the team for over three months, the star has rediscovered the form that led Arsene Wenger to spend £42million to bring him to England from Real Madrid. Mesut Ozil has returned to his best form since recovering from a knee injury that kept him out for three months . Ozil was brilliant again against Middlesbrough on Sunday, creating seven chances for his team-mates . Passes 97 . Passing accuracy 92.8% . Duels won 5 . Recoveries 6 . Shots on target 2 . Successful crosses 100% . Chances created 7 . Ozil has three goals and two assists in just five starts since his return from injury, and is linking brilliantly with Arsenal's newest star Alexis Sanchez. That compares favourably with the one goal and two assists he managed in the nine games before injuring himself against Chelsea in October. To cap it all off, Ozil produced a superb display in Sunday's FA Cup win over Middlesbrough, to keep up his perfect record in the competition. Ozil has won all seven of his FA Cup games since joining Arsenal at the beginning of last season . Middlesbrough manager Aitor Karanka asked the Arsenal star for his shirt after the game on Sunday . Ozil celebrates with fans after winning the FA Cup last season, and he is still unbeaten in the competition . The German international has won all seven games he has played in the FA Cup, and hopes to retain the trophy . Since moving to the Emirates in 2013, Ozil has played seven FA Cup ties, winning all of them. The German midfielder helped the Gunners end their trophy drought at Wembley last season, and has now played a big part in the side reaching the quarter-finals as they look to defend the cup. During Sunday's game against Middlesbrough he created seven chances, the most of any player in the cup this weekend, and was so good that Boro boss Aitor Karanka even asked him for his shirt at the end of the game. Since returning to the Arsenal team Ozil has scored three goals and provided two assists . The German midfielder scores against Tottenham at White Hart Lane to continue his prolific form . Ozil provided an assist for Laurent Koscielny against Leicester as he begins to produce his best form again . Ozil's imperious display, in which he linked brilliantly with the rest of Arsenal's dangerous forward line, saw him complete 93% of his 97 passes, recover the ball six times for his team, and constantly create chances against the promotion candidates. Arsene Wenger must be delighted that Ozil is finally showing his best form as Arsenal begin the final push for Champions League football. | Ozil has never lost in the FA Cup, winning seven games out of seven . Ozil created seven chances against Middlesbrough in brilliant performance . Aitor Karanka asked the Gunners star for his shirt after the game . Ozil has scored three and created two goals since returning from injury . CLICK HERE for all the latest Arsenal news . | e13aedb66066208687906aff6ab8ea46d991eb40 |
Joe Root ensured there was no repeat of England's bad habits and old frailties as they took a giant step towards a series victory over India on day two of the fifth Investec Test. Root's unbeaten 92, a triumph of calm and then acceleration in stands of 80 with Jos Buttler and an unbroken 67 in only 10 overs with Chris Jordan, meant the hosts could quickly forget about their mini-collapse of three wickets for 13 runs. So close: England captain Alastair Cook missed out on an elusive century despite two reprieves . They were able to close on 385 for seven, with a lead of 237 and power still to add at The Oval - where captain Alastair Cook (79) and Gary Ballance (64) also contributed half-centuries. Second-wicket pair Cook and Ballance were part of that mid-afternoon wobble, after a partnership of 125, leaving Root and Buttler to put things right. Root especially did so to great effect, needing 93 balls for his fifth 50 of this series but then taking toll of a flagging attack as he hit seven more boundaries from only another 36 deliveries. Influential: England's Joe Root continued his rich vein for form by scoring a sparkling 92 . Ballance had lavish praise for his fellow Yorkshire batsman, and pointed out too that England of the recent past might easily have gone into terminal decline - as they did so often in last winter's Ashes and on several occasions this summer too - once wickets began to tumble. 'It was a bit of a wobble, a bit of a collapse - which is not ideal,' he said. 'Early on in the summer, it could have been an eight or nine-wicket collapse - but it was only four. 'They bowled well at us and got a few wickets, but the way Rooty and Jos counter-attacked was brilliant ... and really put us in a strong position.' Threat: England's Jos Buttler takes evasive action during the second day of the fifth Test . Barring a major recovery of the tourists' composure after two successive defeats already, England ought to convert their mid-match advantage into a 3-1 series win - and Root once more has played a significant part. 'He's played very positively,' added Ballance. 'He was patient, and got used to the pace of the wicket and then looked to score (more quickly) - and that's what he's done very well this summer. 'He's obviously got that ability (to change gear in an innings), and today he had a chance to put pressure back on India and did that very well and scored very quickly. Got him: India's Varun Aaron celebrates bowling Sam Robson of England for 37 runs . 'To watch how he's handled it after a tough tour of Australia and come back this summer and scored big, big runs - when the team needed them - just shows he's a quality player.' India off-spinner Ravi Ashwin has been impressed too by Root's energetic yet controlled approach to batting. 'He's a positive player, and is expressing himself more - for whatever reason. 'He's a hard competitor who I'd love to compete against every time I go out.' Head in hands: India's Varun Aaron shows his disappointment as Cook leads charmed life . Ballance, meanwhile, was able to reflect with satisfaction on another 50 - his sixth in 11 innings this summer - from the number three position previously filled so well for so long by Jonathan Trott. 'I hadn't batted much there before, but I've had a few gos this summer and feel quite good there now,' said the successful new incumbent. 'Trotty's shoes are massive to fill. He did so well over five or six years, and scored huge runs...but I hope I can look at what he did well, and try to replicate that.' Ballance appeared to have a fourth century in his sights in only his eighth Test, before an unusually tame dismissal to Ashwin. 'I was very disappointed to get out when I did. I thought I had a good chance to get a hundred there. 'You don't want to say you feel at home, because it's international sport and it's tough. '(But) I feel much more confident after this summer, and feel like I can do a decent job and kick on, have a decent career and put England in winning positions. | Root unbeaten on 92 and England captain Cook scored 79 . England reached 385-7 at stumps on second day, a lead of 237 . England lead 2-1 in the best of five-match series . | 91f53405a6578311f3495d03f8c1cfd35b0522b6 |
Tokyo (CNN) -- The Japanese company trying to contain the release of radiation from its Fukushima nuclear plant must pour enough water to cool its damaged reactors without creating an overflow of contaminated water from the plant, a government official said Tuesday. Yukio Edano, Japan's chief Cabinet secretary and the government's point man for the nation's nuclear crisis, said the effort to prevent the reactors from overheating "must be given priority." But Edano acknowledge the danger posed by continuing to pour water into them. "If we need to increase water injection, this is what we need to do. If we stop water injection, fuel rod temperatures may increase and that may result in overheating," Edano said. "But fundamentally we need to drain the water as soon as possible." Edano's remarks came a day after he told reporters that the containment structure surrounding one of the reactors at a quake-battered nuclear power plant is damaged and may be leaking radioactive material. The plant's owner disclosed that small amounts of plutonium had been found among contaminants around the facility late Monday as Japanese authorities struggled to explain how radioactive water was leaking into maintenance tunnels and possibly, into the Pacific Ocean. Edano told reporters Monday afternoon that "there may be a leak" from the containment vessel surrounding the No. 2 reactor. He said experts were still trying to determine the condition of the reactor's pressure vessel, which sits inside the containment vessel and immediately surrounds the radioactive fuel rods at the reactor's core. "Somehow, we understand water is being moved from one place to another," Edano said. "We need to hear an explanation from experts." Reactors 1 to 3 at the plant, located about 240 kilometers (140 miles) north of Tokyo, are believed to have suffered core damage after their cooling systems were knocked out by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami that ravaged northern Japan. The tsunami knocked out backup generators that ran their coolant systems and damaged water pumps at the plant, forcing workers to scramble to prevent a meltdown. Technicians restored external electric power late Monday to the No. 3 reactor plant, a step toward restoring cooling systems there, the plant's owner reported late Monday. But hydrogen explosions -- an early symptom of core damage -- inflicted heavy damage on the buildings housing the No. 1 and No. 3 reactors in the days following the quake, and another suspected explosion rocked the No. 2 reactor on March 15. Japanese nuclear regulators and the owner, the Tokyo Electric Power Company, say they know little about what damage was sustained in that blast. Tokyo Electric announced late Monday that plutonium -- a reactor byproduct that is also part of the fuel mix in the No. 3 reactor -- had turned up in soil on the plant grounds in tests taken last week. However, the company said it was equivalent to the amounts that fell on Japan following above-ground nuclear weapons tests by other countries in past decades, and posed no health risk to humans. "Just in case, TEPCO will increase the monitoring of the nuclear plant grounds and the surrounding environment," the company said. Three plutonium isotopes -- Pu-238, -239 and -240 -- were found in soil at five different points inside the plant grounds, Tokyo Electric reported. The element can be a serious health hazard if inhaled or ingested, but external exposure poses little health risk, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The company said the discovery would not change efforts to bring an end to the crisis at the plant, which has spread radioactive contamination across much of northern Japan. Water found in a maintenance tunnel leading to unit No. 2's turbine house remained radioactive enough to pose an immediate hazard, authorities reported after taking new readings Monday afternoon. The 1,000 millisievert per hour reading is more than 330 times the dose an average person in a developed country receives per year and can result in vomiting and up to a 30 percent higher risk of cancer, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency. The level is also four times the top dose Japan's Health Ministry has set for emergency workers struggling to control the further emission of radioactive material from the damaged plant. Cham Dallas, an expert on radiation and public health at the University of Georgia, told CNN's "American Morning" that the level suggests operators are facing "a deteriorating situation" at the No. 2 reactor. "Fortunately, that's in the reactor area, not outside and not in Tokyo or even in the area in Fukushima province," Dallas said. "But in the reactor area itself, that's -- that's concerning to me. We're starting to see levels now that are dangerous to reactor workers if they're in those contaminated areas." The officials said it was unclear how contaminated water got into the tunnel, or if it might have spilled out and seeped into the Pacific Ocean from there. "Right now, it is not known," Hidehiko Nishiyama, an official with Japan's Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency, said Monday evening. Water was being pumped out of the No. 1 and No. 2 turbine building, but Nishiyama noted that there is no place to put water pooled in the No. 2 building's basement. The plan is to extract the water using what he called a condenser. But that apparatus is "almost full," as are several storage tanks nearby. A similar challenge is holding up the removal of collected water in the No. 3 unit's turbine building basement. "So we will first have to empty some of the tanks," he said, adding later only that the tainted water needs to be removed "as soon as possible." Seawater readings from a monitoring post 330 meters (361 yards) into the Pacific Ocean showed elevated readings of the reactor byproduct iodine-131, an isotope that loses half its radioactivity every eight days. The measurement was taken north of the discharge canal for reactors 1-4, where a reading of 1,850 times normal was recorded Sunday. And despite reduced alarms in recent days, Nishiyama noted Monday that the temperature is rising inside the No. 1 reactor -- a sign that the nuclear fuel rods in that unit remain in danger of overheating. Units 1, 2 and 3 were the only three of the six reactors operating when the magnitude 9 earthquake struck. The quake and resulting tsunami knocked out backup generators that ran their coolant systems and damaged water pumps at the plant, leaving authorities scrambling to pump water into the reactors and the spent fuel pools to prevent a meltdown. Authorities have switched from pumping seawater into the reactors to using fresh water, and plan to switch from seawater to fresh water in the spent fuel pools, where old fuel rods are stored. Monday was the 32nd anniversary of the worst U.S. nuclear accident, a partial meltdown at the Three Mile Island power plant outside Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Though no deaths or injuries resulted, the accident hamstrung the American atomic power industry for decades. CNN's Whitney Hurst contributed to this report . | NEW: Japanese official says contaminated water overflow a threat . Plutonium found in small quantities on plant grounds . Power restored to No. 3 reactor . Radioactive water, possible containment leak plague plant . | c294a072f0ed50b827565bd37ff44c151a0aa415 |
A couple who knew each other only as penpals in their early teens were reunited after 14 years via OkCupid, and last weekend, they were married. Piper Goodeve, now 35, and Gabriel Vaughan, 36, started exchanging letters at the suggestion of mutual friends in 1994, when Piper was 14 and living in New Hampshire and Gabriel was 15 and living in Massachusetts. They were both in relationships at the time, only met in person once, but bonded over their shared acting ambitions. After four years of writing to and fro, the letters stopped. Unbeknownst to them, however, they spent the next 14 years living in parallel; both studied acting in London and then ended up living a mere three blocks from one another in Brooklyn, New York. Scroll down for video . Digital love: Gabriel Vaughan (left) and Piper Goodeve (right) knew each other only as penpals in their early teens, and were reunited after 14 years of silence via OkCupid. Last weekend, they were married (pictured) As a teen, Piper and Gabriel shared a passion for Shakespeare and a dream to one day be actors, so their friends put them in touch - as was customary before the age of the internet - via pen and paper. 'It was like receiving a letter from a kindred spirit who...just knew what she wanted to do,' Gabriel told The Huffington Post. 'So we could talk the same language right out of the gate and that was really rare.' The pair enjoyed one brief meeting when Piper went to see Gabriel in a play, The Tempest, at a Massachusetts theater, but four years and some-50 letters later, the pair fell out of touch and went their separate ways. Or so they thought. In fact, both studied acting in London only a year apart, then moved to Brooklyn, New York, where they lived a few blocks apart, worked as actors and audiobook narrators, and even shared the same voiceover agent. The passage of time: Piper, now 35, and Gabriel, 36, started exchanging letters at the suggestion of mutual friends in 1994, when Piper was 14 Gabriel was 15. Pictured, the couple now . Precious: They were both in relationships at the time, only met in person once, but bonded over their shared acting ambitions. Pictured, Piper's letters, which Gabriel kept for 14 years . 'We took the same subway every day,' Piper says. 'I would get onto the front of the subway and he would get onto the back. So we never met.' In 2011, Piper and Gabriel both happened to join OkCupid, Piper reluctantly, and at the urging of her friends. 'This isn't my story,' she recalls thinking to herself. 'This isn't how I'm going to meet the guy I'm going to spend the rest of my life with. I just don't think it's how it's supposed to happen to me.' When Gabriel came across Piper's profile and saw they had a 94per cent match, he was intrigued, but didn't recognize her or her cryptic screen name. Disbelief: Piper and Gabriel were reunited on OkCupid in 2011, when they hit a 94per cent match. Pictured, Piper the night they first re-met, reading her old letters . Joined: The night the couple were reunited in their shared Brooklyn nieghborhood, in June 2011 . Actors: The newlyweds have since discovered they'd shared 'many' mutual friends for years without ever crossing paths. Pictured in 2013, at the Tennessee Shakespeare Co. where they performed in Hamlet together . 'I wrote to her just like, "Hey, do you want to go on a date?"' he relays. 'And a second later I get a message back and it's like, "Gabe! It’s Piper! It's your penpal!" Gabriel's screen name was his real name, and Piper's only way of knowing who he was, since they barely knew each other by face. Both were utterly 'shocked' and 'dumbfounded,' but met a few days later for a casual neighborhood date. That very night, they headed back to Gabriel's apartment, where he quickly rummaged around in the back of his closet and retrieved a purple binder, stamped with 'Piper G,' containing every single one of her letters. The couple quickly fell in love, and in October 2013, Gabriel proposed to Piper in the garden of the Lord Jeffrey Inn, the Massachusetts theater where they had at met just once all those years ago. The newlyweds now live together in Brooklyn, and have since discovered they'd shared 'many' mutual friends for years without ever crossing paths. In the end, when pen and paper failed them, acquaintances never matched them and even geography didn't prevail, it was a computer algorithm that finally brought their relationship back full circle. | Piper Goodeve and Gabriel Vaughan were penpals for four years as teens . They lost touch, but ended up living just a few blocks apart in Brookyln, New York, without knowing it . The pair were matched on OkCupid in 2011, met for the second time in their lives, and were later married . | 8a354829e428862c9854b965a7135b0f79a5d6fb |
(CNN) -- A source with knowledge of the investigation told CNN the state attorney's office believes there were two motives in the home invasion murder of Florida couple Byrd and Melanie Billings -- robbery and a contracted hit. Leonard Patrick Gonzalez Jr., 35, is believed to be the organizer of Byrd and Melanie Billings' deaths. The Escambia County Sheriff's Office had said it believed robbery was the prime motive, but that it would explore all avenues. The source said the state attorney's office is working under the belief that most of the suspects in the case thought they were there for a robbery, but that Leonard Gonzalez Jr., the alleged organizer of the crime, and other yet-unnamed suspects were plotting a hit on the couple. The source said that from "Gonzalez down" it was a robbery and that from "Gonzalez up" it was a hit. The source was not sure of the motive behind the hit. The Escambia County Sheriff's Office has said it believed robbery was the prime motive, but that it would explore all avenues, a position Sheriff David Morgan reiterated Friday night. "We are, in fact, looking at this," Morgan said. "We want to ensure the citizens of Escambia County that we are not in any way, shape or form of the imagination taking that possibility or probability off the table in the conduct of the Billings murder." Morgan said that early in the investigation, investigators had "uncorroborated information that would lead a reasonable person to believe that this was an avenue of the investigation that we should in fact pursue." He added, "We have and will continue to do that very thing." "I want the citizens of Escambia County to understand that this investigation will go where it goes, and anyone who aided or abetted in the commission of this crime will be brought to justice," the sheriff said. Greg Marcille of the Escambia County Office of the State Attorney did not deny that investigators were considering a contracted hit, but said his office believes "that the prime motive was robbery." "We will consider all possibilities and review any evidence that is brought forward regarding the issue of motive in this case," he said. The Billingses, who were known for adopting special-needs children, were killed during a robbery at their Beulah, Florida, home July 9. A small safe containing prescription medication, family documents and some jewelry was taken, and later found in the backyard of a woman who said she was a friend of Gonzalez, authorities have said. Two sources familiar with the investigation told CNN that a second safe at the home contained at least $100,000. Eight people have been arrested in the case. Seven are facing murder charges and one is accused of being an accessory after the fact. Escambia County Sheriff David Morgan has said Gonzalez once worked for a car dealership Byrd Billings owned, and court documents state that Gonzalez received financial support from the family for a martial-arts studio that he ran. An attorney representing the Billingses has said that Byrd Billings made a nominal donation to Gonzalez's karate charity. CNN's Aaron Cooper contributed to this report. | NEW: Escambia County sheriff says theory is not off the table . Prosecutor does not deny theory is under scrutiny; calls robbery "prime motive" Source: Prosecutors believe most suspects thought they were pulling off robbery . Alleged mastermind plotted hit on Byrd and Melanie Billings, source says . | 6a422e8a4fd03a83b4b4e2cb976f8f950a0266e3 |
By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 12:09 EST, 21 February 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 12:09 EST, 21 February 2013 . Convicted NYPD cop killer Ronell Wilson had a sex act done to him by his girlfriend with his mother and sister in the room, a source has revealed . The convicted cop killer who impregnated a female prison guard while incarcerated has more dirty secrets, it was revealed today. Ronell Wilson, who was convicted in 2006 of killing an undercover NYPD detective, was pleasured from another girlfriend ahead of his incarceration while his mother and sister were in the visiting room, sources revealed. The source said that mother Depetra Wilson and Vanessa Warrick turned away while Wilson was receiving the sex act, and that the salacious event was captured on prison surveillance camera. The source told the New York Daily News that prosecutors considered using the footage against Wilson in his case to try and get the death penalty. The feds were hoping to illustrate the 30-year-old man’s blatant disregard for authority and the fact that he posed a danger to himself and others while behind bars. Wilson will be sentenced sometime this spring in Brooklyn Federal Court. Court papers show that former prison guard, Nancy Gonzalez, is eight-and-a-half months pregnant with their son, and faces 15 years in prison if convicted for having sex with Wilson. The convicted killer impregnated a prison guard in an . alleged plot to avoid the death penalty had been so desperate to father a child . that he offered to confess to the murders of two detectives, according to his . former lawyer. Illegal liaison: Federal prison guard Nancy Gonzalez, left, was arrested after police say she had an illicit affair with convicted cop killer Ronell Wilson, right, and became pregnant with his baby to save him from execution . Attorney Ephraim Savitt said that in 2006, his then-client . Ronell Wilson was poised to accept a plea deal as part of which he would accept . responsibility for the 2003 slayings of undercover detectives Rodney Andrews . and James Nemorin and be sentenced to a life in prison. 'Wilson advised me that he would take the life deal — as . long as he could have conjugal visits — because he was determined to leave this . earth with a child of his own, to give his wasted life some meaning, Savitt . told the New York Post. For Wilson to be . allowed to meet with women behind . bars, he would have had to be sent to a state prison, but his former . attorney . said that the negotiations with the prosecution never went that far . because Attorney general Alberto Gonzalez rejected the proposed . agreement. Wilson's former prison guard-turned-paramour Nancy Gonzalez, 29, . was arrested last month for having an illicit affair with him and getting pregnant . with his child in an alleged scheme to help him escape the death penalty. Sources told The New York Post that during his try with . Gonzalez last year, Wilson was also placing 'romantic' phone calls with three . other women from behind bars. In the aftermath of Gonzalez’s arrest on suspicion that she . had hatched a plot with Wilson to help save his life, the father of one of the . slain officers, Rodney Andrews, spoke out against the idea that his son's . killer should be shown leniency just because he got the woman pregnant. 'Put him to death for what he did,' Rodney Andrews Sr told New . York Daily News. 'If he had 20 children, it wouldn't change my mind.' The 72-year-old father went on to say that Ms Gonzalez does . not deserve any mercy either. Change of heart: On her MySpace page, Gonzalez summed up her attitude toward children thus: 'Love kids, but not for me' On her Facebook page, Gonzalez posted a photo depicting herself proudly showing off her swollen pregnant belly in a tight yellow T-shirt with the world 'Love' printed across the front. Expecting: Former prison guard Nancy Gonzalez poses on Facebook, showing off her baby bump as she prepares to give birth to the child of convicted cop killer Ronell Wilson . Interestingly enough, on her MySpace page, the 29-year-old described her attitude towards children thus: 'Love kids, but not for me.' Gonzalez was arrested Tuesday on . charges she intentionally had sex with Ronell Wilson while working the . night shift at the Metropolitan Detention Center, which is against the . law. She became pregnant in June, a few months into the affair, . according to court papers. Wilson . was a young gang member when he was convicted in the point-blank . shootings of two undercover officers in an illegal gun sting gone awry. ‘I took a chance because I was so vulnerable and wanted to be loved and now I am carrying his child,’ Gonzalez said, according to court papers. Wilson was sentenced to death in the killing of officers Rodney Andrews and James Nemorin, but the sentence was thrown out in 2010 by an appeals court. A new jury must decide his fate. But . replay of the trial's penalty phase has been put off as Wilson's lawyers . seek to convince a judge that he's ineligible for the death penalty . because he is mentally disabled. According . to a complaint, Wilson and Gonzales' scheme to help the convicted . killer escape capital punishment was revealed by prison informants. Victims: Detectives James Nemorin, left, and Rodney Andrews, right, were gunned down by Wilson during a drug bust gone awry in Staten Island in 2003 . Legal complications: Wilson's death sentence was thrown out after an appeals court found that a prosecutor had vilified the convicted killer . According . to one inmate, he witnessed the 29-year-old female guard moving away . from Wilson's cell door while he was standing there with his pants down. The complaint made public Tuesday and cited by CBS New York stated that the inmate and guard had sex in a vacant activity room while Gonzalez was supposed to be checking up on prisoners. The two were caught on video talking or hours at her desk in the kitchen. Military career: Before taking a job as a federal corrections officer, Gonzalez served in the U.S. Army . One of many: While carrying on an affair with Gonzalez, pictured, Wilson was allegedly wooing three other women from behind bars . The corrections officer came clean about her affair with Wilson, which lasted between March and August 2012, in a taped phone conversation with her boyfriend, who is serving time in a state prison. Gonzalez allegedly said she 'kind of got sucked into his world' and 'why not give him a child as far as giving him some kind of hope. 'I can’t explain it. I know what’s to come. I know what is going to be said about me,' Gonzalez allegedly said. 'I know that for me as a parent, how am I going to explain this to this little boy?' It remains unknown what effect the uncovered plot will have on Wilson's mental retardation claim. He still faces life in prison or death by lethal injection. 'If this was done by design, it's not the actions of a person who is mentally retarded,' said Michael Palladino, president of the Detectives Endowment Association. 'It's a devious plot to avoid the death penalty.' Wilson was found guilty in December . 2006 of shooting detectives James Nemorin, 36, and Rodney Andrews, 34, . in the back of their heads in a car March 10, 2003 in Staten Island. The . following year, he was sentenced to death, making him the first federal . defendant in New York to face capital punishment since 1954. However, . an appeals court reversed the sentence in 2010 claiming than a . prosecutor violated Wilson's constitutional rights by making him out to . be a villain. Raymond Patterson, a noted psychiatrist who testified on behalf of the prosecution, told the New York Post that while Wilson suffers from anti-social personality disorder, he is not mentally handicapped. Insanity claim: Wilson's defense attorney argued that he cannot be executed because he is mentally handicapped . | Ronell Wilson convicted in 2007 of shooting dead detectives James Nemorin and Rodney Andrews in 2003 . Prison guard Nancy Gonzalez, 29, accused of having affair with Wilson last year and is eight and a half months pregnant with Wilson's baby . Source says that Wilson was pleasured in prison by girlfriend in 2006 while his mother and sister were in the room . | 4e5f460ed029aea910d29ad9fd7d92410939982c |
This year's Christmas will be hard to top for Joseph Riquelme. Riquelme, creator of iPhone video editing tool Videoshop, gave his parents a gift that brought them to tears. "Your house is paid off. Merry Xmas," Riquelme said in a handwritten letter that he shared in a Facebook photo. An undeniably heartwarming video that Riquelme posted on YouTube under the name JoeyTrombone shows the exchange. Riquelme pulls an envelope of out his hoodie and hands it to his mother. She takes a few seconds to read it and gasps, bursting into laughter and tears as she hands it to Riquelme's father. "Oh, hijo," his father says to him after reading the good news. "Sometimes the best gifts come in the lamest packages. Merry Christmas everyone!" Riquelme said in a caption accompanying the photo. The video was shared widely after being posted on reddit, drawing more than 1.9 million views since being posted on Friday. "Good job buddy. You are the type of person in the world who deserves to be rewarded," one YouTube commenter said. "This is beautiful... I want to do this for my parents one day and I know I have to work hard for it," another said. "Thank you for this, you made your family proud and you made me get motivated." Riquelme's Facebook friends shared similar sentiments, along with some others we all were thinking. "Way to make everyone else's 6 pack of Costco brand socks for dad look even worse." | Joseph Riquelme paid off his parents' home for Christmas . A YouTube video showing the exchange will warm the iciest of hearts . "Way to make everyone else's 6 pack of Costco brand socks for dad look even worse," friend jokes . | 0fdbfbf6968de91cac7deb506e28536777138ba3 |
By . Emily Allen . PUBLISHED: . 03:41 EST, 16 July 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 05:06 EST, 16 July 2012 . Harassed: Michael Austin was branded a 'crafty butcher' - slang for homosexual - by his workmates . A sales rep who was repeatedly accused by colleagues of being gay just because he was not a football fan has been awarded almost £44,000 for the harassment he suffered. Michael Austin, 48, was also branded a 'crafty butcher' - slang for homosexual - by his workmates, who were avid Newcastle United supporters. Newcastle employment tribunal heard that it was 'quite normal' in the North East for anyone who does not like football to be considered gay. Mr Austin’s interest in the arts and viewing of a documentary about surrealist painter Dali were taken as 'further evidence of his homosexuality'. Mr Austin, who is a married father-of-one, was also upset when he went to make a cup of tea - and then found porn had been put on his computer. When he was seriously ill with swine flu, his boss Ian Laidlaw texted him saying: ‘Oink oink, lol’. On his return to work at packaging firm Samuel Grant, his colleagues greeted him wearing surgical masks. In his very first week, one office worker pretended to suffer from Tourettes syndrome and swore at him endlessly. Mr Laidlaw and a quarter of the firm’s staff at its Jarrow offices were Jehovah’s Witnesses and tried to ram their religion down Mr Austin’s throat, the tribunal heard. He was encouraged to attend faith meetings and regularly lectured about religion. When Mr Austin made a formal complaint about bullying and inappropriate homophobic and religious remarks, he was summarily sacked from his £25,000-a-year post. The tribunal found that Mr Austin, of Durham, suffered 'atrocious' bullying by managing director Mr Laidlaw and fellow sales executive Tony Kozlowski. It found Leeds-based Samuel Grant guilty of harassment on the grounds of sexual orientation and religion and victimisation. The panel awarded Mr Austin £43,755 for loss of earnings and injury to feelings. Bully: The tribunal found that Mr Austin suffered 'atrocious' bullying by managing director Ian Laidlaw (pictured) and fellow sales executive Tony Kozlowski . In its judgment, it ruled: 'It was a series of treatment by two people over a period of several months during which Mr Austin was treated atrociously, by being referred constantly to being gay, homosexual and a crafty butcher. 'It was extreme, frequent and very unpleasant. All he wanted to do was get out and get on with his job. 'He was subjected to unwanted religious discussions, then when he made a complaint was dismissed. 'It has obviously had a deep-seated emotional effect on Mr Austin.' The tribunal also ordered that the company’s directors and managers must receive diversity training within six months. Speaking after the recent judgment, Mr Austin said: 'The level of compensation was a pleasant surprise but this was never about the money. It was about me getting justice for what happened to me at Samuel Grant. 'I have always worked as a sales rep for blue chip companies. I thought it would make a nice change to work for a small, family-run business and make a big impact there. 'I was really looking forward to it but it was an absolutely unbearable, dreadful nightmare from day one. The only thing I can compare it to was the tough comprehensive school I attended in the 1970s. 'There was an atmosphere of fear generated by Mr Laidlaw and Mr Kozlowski and everyone was watching their backs. It got to the point where I could not stand it any more. I thought I had nothing to lose by making a formal complaint. 'But they had a meeting in Leeds and decided to get rid of me. If they’d apologised, handed me a month’s pay and wished me all the best for the future, I would have walked away. 'Instead, they were arrogant and lied every step of the way. They got staff who had worked with me to lie at the tribunal. 'The tribunal was the most stressful time of my life but it was really embarrassing for them because everything came out.' Mr Austin joined the firm as a sales executive in September 2010. On his first day Mr Laidlaw told Mr Austin that Mr Kozlowski suffered from Tourette’s and to 'just ignore him'. Mr Kozlowski admitted to the tribunal that his constant swearing had been 'crass and out of order'. Warm welcome: Newcastle fans taunt their former hero Andy Carroll on his return to the North East . Mr Austin was asked whether he liked football. When he said he was not interested in it he was told 'you’re gay then'. Mr Laidlaw and Mr Kozlowski also told him he was 'not a real man'. The tribunal panel noted: 'Both Mr Laidlaw and Mr Kozlowski, in their evidence, say that such an expression is quite normal in north east England football circles, in that anybody who does not like football must accordingly be homosexual.' Mr Kozlowski equated Mr Austin’s willingness to do household chores with him being gay. Mr Laidlaw also sent 'overtly sexist and racist' emails to staff, the tribunal found. He and Mr Kozlowski would quote tracts from the Bible and brand anyone with an alternative religious view 'a Pagan'. In March last year Mr Austin formally complained of bullying by Mr Laidlaw and Mr Kozlowski. Just over two weeks later Mr Austin was marched out of the building and summarily dismissed. Neither of the culprits were suspended with their behaviour later dismissed as 'banter'. The firm claimed that Mr Austin was sacked for poor performance but the tribunal found the real reason was Mr Austin’s complaint. One . of the offices of packaging firm Samuel Grant. A tribunal has found . that the Leeds-based firm is guilty of harassment and must pay Mr Austin . £44,000 . It ruled that Mr Laidlaw and Mr Kozlowski 'colluded' with other employees and that their evidence was 'unconvincing and contrived'. It found that Mr Laidlaw was responsible for an office culture of sexism, racism and religious discussion. It said: 'This conduct is led by the managing director who sets the tone of the culture within the office by his own behaviour and by accepting the behaviour of others.' Mr Austin was fired because 'Mr Laidlaw knew serious complaints had been made and, with proper investigation, could be proved.' The tribunal heard that Mr Austin declined his GP’s offer of medication for work-related stress. But he broke down while on a walk with his daughter and wept several times while giving his evidence to the tribunal. The tribunal heard that Mr Austin has been unable to find another job. He has now set up his own business. | Michael Austin was branded a 'crafty butcher' by his workmates . Tribunal heard it was 'normal' for those who don't like football to be considered gay . Mr Austin was sacked when he complained but was found to be a victim of 'atrocious' bullying . | 5b614a57cd3b6d2d28e1b0adee6ce7d512e94788 |
By . Daniel Miller . PUBLISHED: . 23:12 EST, 3 September 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 01:36 EST, 4 September 2012 . Four Arsenal football fans were arrested inside Liverpool's Anfield stadium after a man was beaten to death on a city centre street. Stuart Smith, 33, from London, died in hospital in the early hours of Sunday morning following an alleged assault in Liverpool city centre. The four men, two aged 39, a 33-year-old and a 27-year-old, who are also from the London area, were later arrested at Anfield during Liverpool's game against Arsenal. Four Arsenal fans were arrested inside Anfield Stadium following the death of a London man was was beaten on a Liverpool street . The men remain in custody for questioning. Merseyside Police said detectives do not believe the incident, which may have been recorded by a passer-by on a mobile phone, is football or gang-related or that Mr Smith was known to the suspects. Police were called to Back Colquitt Street at about 2.45am on Sunday following reports that Mr Smith had been assaulted. He was taken to the Royal Liverpool Hospital where he died a short time later. A Merseyside Police spokesman said: 'Officers are keen to talk to anyone who was in the area at the time and may have witnessed the incident. 'They are particularly keen to trace a man who may have captured part of the assault on his camera phone.' A post mortem examination is due to be carried out later by a Home Office pathologist to establish the cause of death. Forensic examinations have taken place at the scene of the incident, in a busy part of the city centre and close to a number of popular bars and nightclubs. Sorry we are unable to accept comments for legal reasons. | Stuart Smith, 33, from London died following an alleged . assault in the city centre . | 217b7e20e936197f310e389711b8e8da8e7e94d4 |
Love him or loathe him, you can’t deny he’s entertaining. Conor McGregor delivered on his promise to stop Dennis Siver – before clambering out of the Octagon to confront the watching featherweight champion Jose Aldo. McGregor’s victory in Boston, which came in the second round, sets him up for a shot at the long-reigning king of the division in Las Vegas in May. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Conor McGregor: I wanted to enjoy defeating Dennis Siver . Conor McGregor on his way to a dominant victory over Dennis Siver to set up a shot at the featherweight title . McGregor pins Siver against the Octagon as he looks to unload punches against the German . McGregor takes aim to the German's ribs with a right hook as the veteran struggled to deal with the Dubliner . McGregor once again displayed his variety of shots, here landing a left knee on a bewildered Siver . McGregor dropped Siver in the second round with a straight left and set about finishing the job . Conor McGregor bt Dennis Siver via TKO . Donald Cerrone bt Ben Henderson via UD . Uriah Hall bt Ron Stallings via TKO . Gleison Tibau bt Norman Parke via SD . Cathal Pendred bt Sean Spencer via UD . Lorenz Larkin bt John Howard via KO . Chris Wade bt Zhang Lipeng via UD . Patrick Holohan bt Shane Howell via UD . Johnny Case bt Frankie Perez via TKO . Charles Rosa bt Sean Soriano via Submission . Sean O'Connell bt Matt Van Buren via TKO . Joby Sanchez bt Tateki Matsuda via SD . 'I just saw his little skinny Brazilian face,' said McGregor. 'They thought I was going to see my girlfriend but I was going to kill that Brazilian. 'Thankfully they stopped me. ‘Everyone keeps talking about the talk, but they never talk about the skill or the technique because they know I own that. ‘He [Aldo] is one of them saying it’s all talk; it’s not all talk. ‘I’m going to wipe out the division. ‘He’s going to spit shine that belt ready for me to take it.’ Aldo responded to the uninvited guest at his Octagon-side seat with a grin. 'He's just a joke and a court jester to me so all I do is laugh at him,' he said. 'I think it's great for the UFC and I definitely think it will be the biggest fight in the weight class we've ever seen. 'Dennis Siver is a seasoned fighter but he is not of the calibre of people I've faced before. 'I'm not impressed. I know what I'm going to do to him.' Referee Herb Dean stepped in to halt Siver's punishment as McGregor continued to look impressive . McGregor is officially confirmed as the winner and he can now look ahead to his title shot against Jose Aldo . McGregor celebrates with the Irish flag after his fifth win from as many fights in the UFC . McGregor with members of his team as they celebrate his most recent victory in the Octagon . McGregor climbs out of the Octagon after his victory to confront the featherweight champion Jose Aldo . McGregor had promised to stop Siver inside two minutes and he made his intentions clear from the second he entered the Octagon, flicking his middle finger as the two squared off. And he started the fight as if he was desperate for an early night, opening with two body kicks and attempting a spinning wheel kick. The Dubliner was also enjoying success with his hands but he was momentarily dropped by a leg kick, only to bounce back to his feet. Siver remained in contention until McGregor took control from midway through the session, following up a jumping knee with a straight left as the German's face began to mark up badly. McGregor fires in the final shots before referee Dean called a halt to the fight in the second session . Siver's face was badly marked up as he struggled to make an impact on rising star McGregor . There was a large contingent of Irish fans among the 8,000 fans at the TD Garden in Boston . And he had no answer to McGregor's array of shots as he closed out the round in style before picking up where he left off at the bell to start the second stanza. After several attempts at a spinning kick, it was a simple left that floored Siver and McGregor sensed the finish was close. He rained in another barrage, forcing referee Herb Dean to intervene. 'I felt it went exactly as I thought it would,' McGregor said. I said the two minute mark but I didn't want to rush it. 'I wanted to find comfort in calm in there and spend more time in there. 'I said I was going to wipe out the division and there's one man left. When we collide, he will collapse.' | Conor McGregor finished Dennis Siver in the second round in Boston . The Dublin featherweight dominated from the start before finishing the job . McGregor climbed out of the Octagon to confront champion Jose Aldo . The pair are set to fight for the title in May in Las Vegas . Click here for more UFC news . | 7439322635c91a154eb6e5ef9539f97d586d277c |
By . Steve Nolan . PUBLISHED: . 03:30 EST, 26 October 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 05:44 EST, 26 October 2013 . Split: McDonald's will no longer serve Heinz Ketchup at any of its 34,000 worldwide restaurants . It's been the perfect accompaniment to a Big Mac and fries for decades. But McDonald's is to stop serving Heinz Ketchup in its 34,000 restaurants worldwide after ending a partnership of more than four decades. The fast food chain says that the surprising split is down to 'recent management changes'. Heinz is now led by Bernardo Hees former chief executive of McDonald's arch-rivals Burger King. McDonald's said that it will work with Heinz until a replacement supplier is in place. The chain said in a statement: 'As a result of recent management changes at Heinz, we have decided to transition our business to other suppliers over time. 'We have spoken to Heinz and plan to work together to ensure a smooth and orderly transition.' The switch from Heinz is likely to be more apparent in the UK and other restaurants across the world, with ketchup in most of the franchise's US restaurants supplied from elsewhere. Heinz disappeared from many US branches in the 1970s after the company couldn't meet McDonald's demands due to a tomato shortage. Since then, apart from in Pittburgh and Minneapolis where Heinz was still used, most ketchup is just branded as 'fancy ketchup' in US branches. A Heinz spokesman declined to comment on the matter. Heinz was bought for $28billion (£17.3billion) back in June by Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway and an investment fund. It immediately named Hees, still vice chairman of Burger King, as its CEO. Burker King has been a customer of Heinz for 'decades' and will continue to use its products in around 80 per cent of its outlets around the world, according to a spokesman. All change: The restaurant chain has been serving up Heinz with its fries in restaurants outside the US for more than 40 years . Silence: Heinz declined to comment on the news that it will no longer count McDonald's among its customers . Henry J Heinz first went into business with L Clarence Noble in 1869 and the first product to be launched was Heinz & Noble's 'pure and superior' grated horseradish. Seven years later and Mr Heinz set up his second company with two relatives - F&J Heinz Co - and became manager of the firm, launching its now famous ketchup in the US in 1876 and in the UK in 1886. It wasn't until 1910 that the company's Cream of Tomato Soup made its way to UK stores for the first time and the company began producing its products on British shores for the first time during the 1920s. Life in plastic is fantastic: Heinz introduced squeezy ketchup bottles for the first time in 1987 . In the first year of UK production alone, Heinz created Some 10,000 tonnes of its tomato sauce. The product's ketchup remained fairly unchanged until 1987, when the company introduced plastic squeezy ketchup bottles as opposed to its traditional glass containers. Heinz now exports to 60 countries across the world and is the fourth biggest brand name behind Coca Cola, McDonald's and Nescafe. | Fast food giant said split is down to 'recent management changes' at Heinz . Heinz recently appointed former Burger Boss Bernado Hees as its CEO . The two companies will continue to work together until alternative found . Rival Burger King will continue to use Heinz in 80 per cent of restaurants . | 4b374051d9fba62bdbf488abea7b63d705b718a4 |
Police and protesters clashed in crisis-hit Ferguson after police chief Tom Jackson issued an apology to the family of black teenager Michael Brown who was shot by one of his officers. Jackson stood outside the police station and marched briefly with protesters before scuffles broke out in the St Louis suburb. One man was arrested following the brief disturbance according to reports in the St Louis Post-Dispatch. Scroll down for video . Police chief Tom Jackson, left, is confronted by protesters angry over the shooting of Michael Brown in August . Chief Jackson, centre, marched briefly with the protesters before one man was arrested in the following group . Scuffles broke out following Chief Jackson's appearance with protesters calling for his resignation . Jackson told protesters: 'All those things that are causing mistrust are being evaluated and we are going to be making changes.' Three other protesters were arrested during a later confrontation. Earlier Thursday, Jackson released a video apology to Brown's family and the community in which he acknowledged that Brown's body should have been removed from the street much sooner after he was killed. Brown's body remained on Canfield Drive, a residential street, for more than four hours while police collected evidence. He said: 'It was just too long and I'm truly sorry for that. Please know that the investigating officers meant no disrespect to the Brown family, to the African-American community or the people of Canfield (Drive). They were simply trying to do their jobs. Addressing the Brown family directly, Jackson said: 'I'm truly sorry for the loss of your son.' Brown's parents declined comment when told about Jackson's video during a news conference with civil rights leaders at the National Press Club. Their attorney later said they hadn't heard about the video but would review it. Speaking out: Ferguson Police Chief Tom Jackson released this video apology on Thursday morning to say sorry to the family of slain teen Michael Brown for leaving his body in the street for so long . Brown was unarmed when he was fatally shot on August 9 during a confrontation with Officer Darren Wilson. The shooting sparked numerous protests and racial unrest in the predominantly black community. Some residents and civil rights activists have said responding police officers were overly aggressive, noting their use of tear gas and military-style vehicles and gear. 'It is clear that we have much work to do,' Jackson said in the video. The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating the Ferguson Police Department for possible civil rights violations. A total of four people were arrested during last night's civil rights protest in Ferguson, Missouri . Tensions in the St Louis suburb have been extremely high since Michael Brown was shot on August 9 . Protesters are especially angry that police left Mr Brown's body on the street while they gathered evidence . 'I'm also sorry that it took so long to remove Michael from the street. The time that it took involved very important work on the part of investigators, who were trying to collect evidence and gain a true picture of what happened that day, but it was just too long, and I am truly sorry for that.' It took police officers more than four hours to remove Brown's body from the street after he was shot dead by white police officer Darren Wilson on August 9. Brown, who was black, was not armed. 'Please know that the investigating officers meant no disrespect to the Brown family, to the African-American community or the people of Canfield,' Jackson went on. 'They were simply trying to do their jobs.' He also said sorry for the police response to protesters. Crowds began marching in the days after the shooting and escalated into violence and looting in some places. The police response was slammed as inept and Missouri Governor Jay Nixon ultimately put the Missouri State Highway Patrol in charge of policing the protests. Killed: Brown's body can be seen in the street on August 9; it took police more than four hours to remove it . Gunned down: Brown, 18, was unarmed when he was shot dead by Police Officer Darren Wilson, right . 'I do want to say to any peaceful protester who did not feel that I did enough to protect their constitutional right to protest, I am sorry for that,' Jackson said. 'The right of the people to peacefully assemble is what the police are here to protect. If anyone who was peacefully exercising that right is upset and angry, I feel responsible, and I'm sorry.' He also acknowledged how the situation blew up overnight and drew Ferguson into a discussion about race relations and the attitude of the police across the U.S. 'Overnight I went from being a small-town police chief to being part of a conversation about racism, equality and the role of policing in that conversation,' he said. 'As chief of police, I want to be part of that conversation. I also want to be part of the solution. 'For any mistakes I've made, I take full responsibility.' The Justice Department is investigating whether the Ferguson police used excessive force, whether constitutional rights of some residents are violated by traffic stops, searches and arrests, and if police engage in discriminatory practices. Apologies: Reverend Al Sharpton, left, appears with the parents of Michael Brown, Lesley McSpadden and Michael Brown Sr., at a news conference on Thursday. Chief Jackson today apologized to the family . Ongoing violence: On Tuesday, a memorial for Michael Brown was burned down in Ferguson . Jackson was not at the meeting but has said he welcomes the investigation. Even now, unrest continues in the area. Fire destroyed a memorial to Brown at the site of the shooting early on Tuesday, generating new anger among some residents. Police say the cause of the fire is under investigation. The fire may have been the spark for a violent protest Tuesday night. One store was damaged by looting, another was set on fire, and police were attacked with rocks and bottles. Two officers suffered injuries when they were hit by rocks. A state grand jury is weighing if Wilson will face criminal charges, but a decision isn't expected until mid-October at the earliest. | Four people arrested as Ferguson police chief issues Brown family apology . Chief Tom Jackson said he was sorry over delays in removing Brown's body . Michael Brown was shot dead by police officer Darren Wilson on August 9 . Protesters have called for 'Chief Jackass' to resign after the shooting . | 0a910161bb456c991b2d68bd7d04d877990b9232 |
Two prominent anti-aging scientists have shaken on a million dollar wager over who will live the longest. Dmitry Kaminskiy and Alex Zhavoronkov placed the bet last month at an anti-aging conference and the deal is that the first one to die will immediately owe the other a million dollars in stock or cash. Both men are evangelists for new drugs and technology that might extend the human life by fighting age-related diseases. Dmitry Kaminskiy, left, and Alex Zhavoronkov placed the bet last month at an anti-aging conference and the deal is that the first one to die will immediately owe the other a million dollars in stock or cash . Shake on it! Both men are evangelists for new drugs and technology that might extend the human life by fighting age-related disease . Kaminskiy is a senior partner at Deep Knowledge Ventures in Hong Kong, while Zhavoronkov is the CEO of the anti-aging drug company Insilico Medicine in Russia. They also believe that the competition is a way to combat psychological aging and ensure each man's continued desire to live. 'If one of the parties passes away before the other, $1 million in Insilico Medicine stock will be passed to the surviving party,' the agreement stated, adding that if the company is no longer in existence the other has to pay up the dollar amount in cash. Another condition of the bet is that both men have to live past 100 years. That will happen on February 24, 2079, when Zhavoronkov - who has just turned 36 - turns 100. He is a year younger than Kaminskiy. 'Longevity competitions may be a great way to combat both psychological and biological aging,' Dr. Zhavoronkov told Zoltan Istvan of Gizmodo. 'I hope that we will start a trend.' The two scientists believe the competition is a way to combat psychological aging and ensure each man's continued desire to live beyond 100 . Zhavoronkov has been taking low-dose aspirin since 1998 plus an anti-aging cocktail of statins and other supplements for over four and a half years is confident that he will win the bet. He's also had an HPV shot to prevent cancer and takes other drugs to avoid getting the flu. However he admitted to ABC that Kaminskiy may have an advantage because he has family has a history of living longer, while he also enjoys a more stable sleeping pattern and regularly exercises. 'Access to a few hundred million dollars, state of the art information systems and a venture fund investing in longevity companies also helps,' said Kaminskiy. 'But I still believe in the power of simple, affordable and reasonably safe interventions.' | Dmitry Kaminskiy and Alex Zhavoronkov placed the bet last month and the deal is that the first one to die will immediately owe the other a million dollars . Both men are evangelists for new drugs and technology that might extend the human life by fighting age-related diseases . They also believe that the competition is a way to combat psychological aging and ensure each man's continued desire to live . The bet won't begin until both men are 100 years old and they aren't allowed to kill each other . | 9b9decd18bd479f3222449895e26e5860710f5d2 |
LONDON, England (CNN) -- Supermodel Naomi Campbell has been sentenced to 200 hours of community service after pleading guilty to assaulting two police officers following an "air rage" incident at London's Heathrow Airport. Naomi Campbell, seen here arriving at court, was convicted of an assault charge in New York in 2007. According to the British Press Association, the 38-year-old pleaded guilty at Uxbridge magistrates' court, west London to two counts of assaulting a police officer, one count of disorderly conduct likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress and using threatening, abusive words or behaviour to cabin crew. Prosecutors described how Campbell kicked and spat at police, used foul language and accused airline personnel of racism after she was told that one of her bags had not been placed on the British Airways flight to Los Angeles on 3 April. The London-born model was also ordered to pay $400 to each of the police officers she attacked and $300 to Miles Sutherland, the captain of the British Airways plane she disrupted, in addition to a $4,600 fine. Watch as Naomi Campbell arrives at court » . Chairman of the magistrates' Peter Yiacoumi said he had given Campbell credit for her guilty pleas and previous good character. He said: "These offences are aggravated because they were committed within a lengthy incident in a confined space on an aircraft. Whilst we accept that the loss of your suitcase would have been stressful your subsequent behaviour cannot be justified." A spokeswoman for British Airways told PA Friday: "We take all cases of disruptive behaviour extremely seriously and take action where appropriate. "We have banned people from travelling with us in the past and we reserve the right to ban passengers." BA would not comment specifically on the Campbell case, but it is understood that the supermodel has been banned by the airline. In 2007, a New York court handed Campbell a community service sentence and ordered her to attend anger management classes as punishment for hitting her maid on the head with a mobile phone. The London-born model had been arrested a year previously after hurling the phone -- reportedly a jewel-encrusted BlackBerry -- which smacked her housekeeper on the head, leaving her needing four stitches. She pleaded guilty to a charge of reckless assault. | Naomi Campbell could have faced prison for up to six months . Supermodel was given "credit" by the court for her guilty plea . Campbell admitted to assault, using threatening and abusive language . Witnesses say Campbell was involved in a dispute over her luggage . | 39eba9276eb67dd47cdf93b77861cae271866b7f |
By . Associated Press and Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 19:22 EST, 23 January 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 19:35 EST, 23 January 2013 . When it comes to the male of the species, an inch makes all the difference. Two New Jersey men are suing Subway, claiming the world's biggest fast-food chain has been shorting them by selling so-called footlong sandwiches that are closer to 11 inches rather than 12. The pair - John Farley, of Evesham and Charles Noah Pendrack, of Ocean City - want compensatory damages and a change in Subway's practices. Scroll down for video . Just short: Two men are suing because their Subway sandwich came up short, like the other pictured . The suit, filed Tuesday in Superior Court in Mount Holly, may be the first aimed at the sandwich shops after an embarrassment went viral last week when someone posted a photo of a footlong and a ruler on the company's Facebook page to show that the sandwich was not as long as advertised. At the time, the company issued a statement saying that the sandwich lengths can vary a bit when franchises do not bake to the exact corporate standards. But Stephen DeNittis, the lawyer for the plaintiffs, says that's no excuse and the missing bite is worth about 45 cents per sandwich. He is seeking class-action status and is also preparing to file a similar suit in Pennsylvania state court in Philadelphia. He said he's had sandwiches from 17 shops measured - and every one came up short. 'The case is about holding companies to deliver what they've promised,' he said. Even though the alleged short of a half-inch or so of bread is relatively small, it adds up, he said. Subway has 38,000 stores around the world, nearly all owned by franchisees and its $5 footlong specials have been a mainstay of the company's ads for five years. Subway's previous adverts, like this popular 'Hula' dance, have suggested that a footlong sandwich will measure one foot in length . How long? This Subway promotion in 2008 showed a range of characters measuring out one foot with their hands . DeNittis said both Farley and Pendrack came to him after reading last week about the short sandwiches. The Milford, Conn.-based firm should either make sure its sandwiches measure a full foot or stop advertising them as such, he said. He points to how McDonald's quarter-pounders are advertised as being that weight before they are cooked. Subway said it couldn't comment on pending or ongoing legal action but the company responded to international criticism that their footlong sandwiches only appear to be 11 inches long on Saturday. But their reply didn't win them any new fans, as they claimed that the word footlong is a 'registered trademark as a descriptive name for the sub' and 'not intended to be a measurement of length.' A man in Australia started uproar on January 15 when he posted a photo on the company's Facebook page of one of its footlong subs next to a tape measure showing the sandwich as just 11 inches. Countless lookalike pictures appeared all over the internet and more than 100,000 people 'liked' or commented on the original, which had the caption 'Subway pls respond.' Economic Sense: During the recession Subway began advertising $5 footlongs . The world's largest fast food chain . did so on Friday with a comment on the original query, posted by Matt . Corby from Perth, Australia. The . statement began: 'Looking at the photo doing the rounds showing a . slightly undersized sub, this bread is not baked to our standards.' Then . Subway went on the offensive, claiming that a footlong sub wasn't . necessarily meant to be exactly a foot long in the first place. 'With . regards to the size of the bread and calling it a footlong, "SUBWAY . FOOTLONG" is a registered trademark as a descriptive name for the sub . sold in Subway® Restaurants and not intended to be a measurement of . length.' 'The length . of the bread baked in the restaurant cannot be assured each and every . time as the proofing process may vary slightly each time in the . restaurant.' Subway have since removed the statement but, as Buzzfeed pointed out, this was at odds with previous Subway advertising. Furor: A man in Australia started uproar on January 15 when he posted a photo on the company's Facebook page of one of its footlong subs next to a tape measure showing the sandwich as just 11 inches . Likes: More than 100,000 people 'liked' or commented on the original, which had the caption 'Subway pls respond' The . company has suggested in past promotional material that the footlong . sub will measure a foot in length, such as a popular 2008 'Hula' advert . (see below). The Subway . photo — and the backlash — illustrates a challenge companies face with . the growth of social media sites like Facebook, YouTube and Twitter. Before, . someone in a far flung local in Australia would not be able to cause . such a stir. But the power of social media means that negative posts . about a company can spread from around the world in seconds. 'People . look for the gap between what companies say and what they give, and . when they find the gap — be it a mile or an inch — they can now raise a . flag and say, 'Hey look at this,' I caught you,' said Allen Adamson, . managing director of branding firm Landor Associates in New York. Subway has always offered footlong sandwiches since it opened in 1965. A customer can order any sandwich as a footlong. The . chain introduced a $5 footlong promotion in 2008 as the U.S. fell into . the recession, and has continued offering the popular option throughout . the recovery. Viral: Countless lookalike pictures appeared all over the internet within hours . Response: Subway finally responded on Saturday to the debacle . An attempt to contact someone with . the same name and country as the person who posted the photo of the . footlong sandwich on Subway's Facebook page was not returned on . Thursday. But comments by other Facebook users about the photo ran the gamut from outrage to indifference to amusement. One . commenter urged people to 'chill out.' Another one said she was . switching to Quiznos. And one man posted a photo of his foot in a sock . next to a Subway sandwich to show it was shorter than a 'foot.' 'I've never seen so many people in an uproar over an inch. Wow,' read one Facebook post. 'Let's all head to McDonald's and weigh a Quarter Pounder,' suggested another poster. The Subway footlong photo is just the latest in a string of public relations headaches that were caused by a negative photo or event about a company going viral. Last year, a Burger King employee tweeted a picture of someone standing in sneakers on two tubs of uncovered lettuce. Domino's Pizza employees posted a video on YouTube of workers defacing a pizza in 2009. And a KitchenAid employee last year made a disparaging remark about President Obama using the official KitchenAid Twitter account. | John Farley and Charles Noah Pendrack of New Jersey are suing for compensatory damages in the Superior Court in Mount Holly . Their lawyer is seeking class-action status after claiming he's had sandwiches from 17 shops measured and every one came up short . Missing bite equates to 45 cents per sandwich . Anger comes after a Subway customer in Australia posted a photo of his stingy sandwich last week, prompting countless others to do the same . | 12ece2e48a89cadd07301414ac45cf2e00760c42 |
Washington (CNN)They weren't exactly James Bond but the three alleged Russian spies exposed by the FBI are part of the most intense effort by Russia to infiltrate agents onto American soil since the Cold War. In an affidavit unsealed in federal court on Monday, the Justice Department accused Evgeny Buryakov, also known as "Zhenya," of posing as a Russian banker in Manhattan to funnel economic intelligence to the SVR, Russia's foreign intelligence agency. Two other Russians, Igor Sporyshev and Victor Podobnyy, were ostensibly diplomats in Russia's UN mission in New York but are accused of being Buryakov's SVR handlers. While Buryakov was operating deep undercover and therefore had no diplomatic protection, the other two have immunity and have already left the the United States. Anecdotes in the affidavit portray the accused spies as bumbling and hapless compared to the stereotype of hard-eyed Soviet-era KGB professionals. Still, news of their existences comes at the most perilous moment in U.S.-Russia relations in decades, with Barack Obama and Vladimir Putin at a standoff over issues ranging from Ukraine to Moscow's claims it has a right to a "sphere of influence" in its backyard. A spy operation will only serve to deepen the hostilities. Professor Mark Galeotti, a specialist in transnational organized crime, security affairs and Russia at New York University, said that Russian operations are cranking up against the U.S. and its European allies. "It is clear that this is a process that has been taking place over time," he said. "It is not just about throwing money and people into it. It is the tempo and the aggressiveness that is at the height of Cold War levels." FBI: Russian spies used tickets and hats to try to hide New York activities . Edward Lucas, author of "Deception: The Untold Story of East-West Espionage Today," said "Russian espionage in the West is on a bigger scale than it was during the Soviet period." "We are an open society so we are very easy to spy on and we are in competition with a very closed society, which is Russia. They use intelligence as one of the most important tools in the Kremlin tool kit." U.S. authorities agree. "More than two decades after the presumptive end of the Cold War, Russian spies continue to seek to operate in our midst under cover of secrecy," U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara said in a statement. Assistant FBI Director Randall Coleman warned that despite the collapse of the Soviet Union, "espionage is as pervasive today as it has ever been." "This case is especially egregious as it demonstrates the actions of a foreign intelligence service to integrate a covert intelligence agent into American society under the cover of an employee in the financial sector," he said. The affidavit contains details of alleged -- and apparently fumbling -- attempts by the accused SVR agents to recruit female students at a New York University and a boastful American businessman dreaming of riches in the Russian energy industry. Those tid bits have sparked derisive assessments of Moscow's espionage prowess, echoing the ridicule drummed up by the outing of Anna Chapman in 2010. She was exposed in an FBI probe into 10 Russian deep cover "sleeper agents" and was later exchanged with Moscow in a spy swap. According to the unclassified affidavit, the 2015 spies, like the 2010 brigade, appeared to extract little useful intelligence and appeared not to penetrate deeply into the U.S. financial industry. In fact, the two alleged handlers, were caught on an FBI surveillance tape complaining that life as a spy in the United States wasn't like it was in the movies. Podobnyy is quoted in the affidavit as saying that he didn't expect to be "James Bond" but had expected a little more excitement. "Of course, I wouldn't fly helicopters," he said, but confessed he had expected to "pretend to be someone else" under an assumed identity. The pair apparently communicated with Buryakov using covert and coded methods and conducted 48 clandestine meetings, unaware they were under surveillance by the FBI. Lucas said that in retrospect their missions might look amateurish, but "all espionage operations look brilliant if they succeed and blundering if they fail." Close observers of the spy trade argue that media mockery over Chapman, now a TV star and model in Russia, and her apparently unsuccessful comrades in New York, detracts from a long-term, well-financed and painstaking effort by Moscow -- and Putin, a former KGB agent -- to insert "illegals" deep into Western society. Peter Earnest, a former CIA case officer who now heads the International Spy Museum in Washington, said that a perception had grown that those swept up in the 2010 operation were part of a hapless "Keystone Cops" operation. "The Russians under Putin have chosen to invest a lot of money into placing people like that overseas," he said. "It wasn't clear to the public what these people were doing." "They were meant to be sleepers," Earnest said. "Typically an illegal sent to another country is a sleeper. He or she is available to handle a very sensitive asset, or in the case of wartime, or some sort of confrontation, be available." While the agents exposed in New York this week were not "sleepers", they were also evidence of a comprehensive Russian espionage program. The latest National Threat Assessment by Director of National Intelligence James Clapper warned last year that Russia, in addition to challenging U.S. cyber security, was also seeking to target U.S. personnel with access to sensitive computer network information. He named Russia and China as the biggest threats to U.S. state security and said they were seeking data on advanced weapons systems and information on U.S. firms and research institutions that deal with energy, finance, the media, defense and dual use technologies. John Schindler, who spent a decade with the National Security Agency working as an intelligence analyst and counterintelligence officer on Eastern Europe and the Middle East, believes the U.S.-Russia spy wars are as vibrant as ever. "This is the tip of an iceberg," he said. "The 2010 illegals program that was rolled up by the FBI was a big success but this was not the end of it." Schindler said that since the demise of the Soviet Union, Russian intelligence services have rebuilt overseas networks, partly to wage "economic war" against the West. Such an emphasis is increasingly important at a time when the United States and its allies are imposing economic sanctions on powerful figures and top firms over Russia's annexation of Crimea and alleged infiltration into eastern Ukraine. The new Russian intelligence offensive has a world of opportunity. Russian businesses and capital are increasingly important to and invested in the global economy. And the nexus between vast Russian commercial and energy interests, and organized crime offers a shady world where spies can prosper. The affidavit in the Buryakov case alleges that the SVR sought to use an official Russian news organization in the United States to get information about high-frequency automated trading systems used on Wall Street and to gauge interest among brokers about Russian products. While it lays out a comprehensive legal case against the three alleged Russian spies, the document also includes several intriguing story lines and leaves key questions unanswered in the fog of the espionage wars. The document includes transcripts of conversations between Podobnyy, Sporyshev and Buryakov -- not just from phone taps, but from what it says are discussions "inside the SVR NY office." That leaves open the possibility that the FBI managed to get some kind of bug into the super secure premises. Lucas said its mention may be intended to induce paranoia among Russian intelligence chiefs who may wonder what other sensitive conversations were swept up. The document also says that in the summer of 2014, Buryakov "met numerous times with a confidential source working for the FBI." That revelation may also lead SVR bosses to question the extent of FBI knowledge about their operations. Another question is why did the FBI move now? "Arresting a foreign spy is the last option, you would rather turn them or watch who they are taking to," said Galeotti. "Why did they decide to arrest this guy? Did they think they would be about to return to Russia? Was it because there was a risk that he was going to stumble across something important? "Was it time to put a shot across the Russian bows?" The idea that the United States wanted to make a political point about its intelligence operations at a time of rising tensions appears supported by the robust language of the Department of Justice Press release. "We will use every tool at our disposal to identify and hold accountable foreign agents operating inside this country -- no matter how deep their cover," said Attorney General Eric Holder. Bharara added: "New York City may be more hospitable to Russian businessmen than during the Cold War, but my office and the FBI remain vigilant to the illegal intelligence-gathering activities of other nations." | Alleged Russian spies seem hapless but may hint at wider operation . Arrest comes at time of sharp U.S.-Russia tensions . | d8f3810eb61fddcec9ee9c9cc2cf0ff593f1b1da |
Washington (CNN) -- The nuclear talks with the P5+1 -- that's France, Britain, Russia, China, the United States and Germany -- this past week in Geneva left much to be desired for Iran in terms of final outcomes. The joint action plan calls on Iran to take steps to verify the peaceful nature of its nuclear program. In return, it receives limited sanctions relief until a comprehensive solution within the year takes shape. But a deal is better than no deal as far as Tehran is concerned, and here is why: . The move preempts other power centers in Iran. Although President Hassan Rouhani rejected the idea, in the joint plan Tehran admitted de facto that its nuclear program might be in non-compliance. The move preempts hardline factions in Iran from attempts to advance know-how to build a nuclear bomb. It wants a dignified solution. Despite frequent proclamations to the contrary, Tehran will commit to talks until a way out of the nuclear dilemma is found, even if a final deal takes a long while to make. Until then, it can showcase its praiseworthy diplomatic skills. It wants the military option permanently off table. If Iran needs nuclear energy and has the capacity to produce the fuel, then an agreement that allows it to enrich nuclear fuel is not only necessary, but also reduces the chance of a military strike against Iran's nuclear facilities. That is why it insists on enrichment. It wants to fortify the conservative power-base. Without a deal, that prospect is in jeopardy because rival political factions in Iran will undermine Rouhani's conservative camp. Already, the joint action plan has come under attack by hardline sources who told Raja News, linked to former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, that it degrades Iran's nuclear rights. It wants to re-define "Death to America." Tehran can't control those chants. They aim to sabotage talks but also bring tactical pressure on the P5+1 to deliver on its end of the bargain. Tehran wants talks to move forward regardless. That is why Interior Minister Abdul Reza Rahmani Fazli told Mehr news agency that the chant means Iran supports talks. While that surely confuses any American, the vast majority of Iranians rejoice in what is implied, that Tehran is ready for a deal with the enemy. It wants to keep hardliners happy. There is a national consensus to resolve the nuclear crisis, according to hardline papers Kayhan and Sobh-e Sadeqh. To reciprocate the favor, Tehran hasn't rejected their calls to exercise "resistance diplomacy," a term branded to push Tehran to remain defiant in the nuclear talks. Tehran paid lip-service to the cause while it advanced the talks. That means it knows it must "eat bread based on its daily currency," to be able to "tie the devil's hand behind its back," as two Persian proverbs go. It wants sanctions lifted. A deal which revamps Iran's economy and generates hard cash is a good one, even if it happens slowly. The head of Iran's Foreign Policy and National Security Commission Alaadin Boroujerdi told ISNA news agency the country will stick with talks until all sanctions are lifted, which the joint plan promises to do through a later comprehensive solution. He also told Fars news agency that parliament will make the endorsement of decisions with the P5+1 conditional on removing sanctions. It wants its three-tier proposal to get a fair chance. The action plan reflects some of the language of the Iranian proposal which was presented and ignored early this month in Geneva. This includes recognizing a step-by-step process to end the nuclear dispute, and the reversibility of an agreement if all its provisions are not fully met. This proposal gives Tehran and other parties a chance to step back and weigh new options if progress in talks falls short of expectations. It wants a deal before the next U.S. presidential race. Tehran does not want to rush talks in order to maximize the advantages of a final deal. But it knows the best opportunity for a good deal is until next November when campaigning for the 2016 presidential election can knock other priorities down the list. Although it risks tying the fate of the nuclear talks to its relations with the U.S., Tehran is prepared to take that chance. That is why, in an interview with Tehran-based ISNA, its Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said he was ready for the next round of talks to begin right away. It wants to activate its regional diplomacy. Tehran de-linked the nuclear talks from other regional issues including Syria, but remained open to discussing them with the P5+1. It paid the price and ignored its neighbors in the process, including Saudi Arabia and Israel who have stakes in Syria, for a higher gain: to limit the impact of its conflicts in the region on its nuclear file. With an initial plan now in place, Tehran can revamp its regional diplomacy. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Banafsheh Keynoush. | Banafsheh Keynoush: Iran has many things to gain . She says it can help keep various sides in Iran happy . It limits nuclear weapon development at home . And the deal reduces the likelihood of military action from abroad . | fd202049c97305c7044e41e9c095e4d21da197bf |
(Oprah.com) -- For as long as I've been alive, my parents have hosted the first night's Passover seder. As our family matured and expanded, and as the seder became more inclusive (coming to accommodate first and second cousins, teachers from our school, family friends and near-strangers who happened to be passing through town), we moved the proceedings from our dining room to the basement. Previously on CNN: The Foer Questions . One table became many pushed awkwardly together: the plastic folding table, the pingpong and bumper-pool tables, four card tables...all covered in matching, if wine-stained, tablecloths. Oprah.com: How to connect to the present moment . At each setting was a Haggadah that my father had cobbled together the week before by Xeroxing favorite passages from other Haggadahs and, more recently, by printing online sources. Because on this night copyright doesn't apply... I'm not an observant Jew and wouldn't be considered religious by most definitions (including my own). But this oldest of rituals, which conveys the oldest of stories, couldn't possibly feel more contemporary or important to me -- especially now that I'm a father. Oprah.com: Your father, yourself: 6 women look back on their dads . Religion snuck up on me as a parent. Throughout my childhood, I spent Sunday mornings and Wednesday afternoons promising my future children that they would never waste their Sunday mornings and Wednesday afternoons at Hebrew school. And yet when the time comes -- my wife and I are still a few years away -- it's hard to imagine doing anything terribly unlike what our parents did. Or their parents. Or their parents' parents' parents' parents...traditions of all kinds compel our parenting choices. (This is true for everything from the "cinnamon oatmeal" I cook my children for breakfast to the stories I read to them at bedtime.) But so does the desire to get it slightly more right: to put lessons learned in my own life to use, or simply to shape traditions to fit the contemporary moment. (We are raising our children vegetarian and often invent our own stories to tell them in bed.) It's a balancing act: How do you bind yourself to the old, without binding yourself? Oprah.com: What Oprah knows for sure about growing up . And there's something else going on, too -- something beyond tradition, and inherited values, even beyond reason. Children evoke what Abraham Joshua Heschel called "radical amazement." If you've ever stood at the edge of the ocean before a storm or watched a solar eclipse in a puddle, you know what this is -- when the question being begged is not how something works, but why. And at this stage in my life, there is no more radically amazing why than the faces of my sons. Oprah.com: 12 ways to entertain kids ( Without resorting to a DVD) All those years ago, we were doing more in my parents' basement than just fulfilling a ritual, or telling a story, or transmitting values: We were setting aside some time from the bustle of our daily existence to engage with a question that has no answer, but whose asking reminds us of the scales and stakes of our lives: "Why are we who we are?" The question inspires amazement. Religion -- even for the unreligious -- can be a powerful way, perhaps even the most powerful way, to engage with our amazement. I don't especially care whether or not my children believe in God, but I can think of nothing more important or powerful to instill in them than the experience of wonder. And for us, this happens at a pushed-together table with a wine-stained tablecloth. Oprah.com: 18 questions that everyone's too afraid to ask . Subscribe to O, The Oprah Magazine for up to 75% off the newsstand price. That's like getting 18 issues FREE. Subscribe now! TM & © 2011 Harpo Productions, Inc. All Rights Reserved. | "I wouldn't be considered religious by most definitions," says Foer . Foer says Haggadah couldn't feel more important to him now that he's a father . Even for the unreligious, religion can be a powerful way to engage amazement . | 9744134ae1d15c68e3d9df850806faf3a33ecd0f |
(CNN) -- It's not often that I agree with Sarah Palin. But when she comes around to a liberal point of view on an issue, that is to be noted with praise. So, good for you, Sarah, for flip-flopping on the issue of hard work. Palin took to Facebook recently to praise the remarks of liberal actor Ashton Kutcher, who has in the past donated tens of thousands of dollars to Democrats and participated in a star-studded video pledging, "to serve our President (Obama) and all mankind." So how did this Hollywood liberal become the darling of Sarah Palin? By speaking out on behalf of a truly liberal value: hard work. "I believe that opportunity looks a lot like hard work," Kutcher said in a speech he gave at the Teen Choice Awards. "I've never had a job in my life that I was better than. I was always just lucky to have a job. And every job I had was a steppingstone to my next job, and I never quit my job until I had my next job." Palin and other conservatives lept to embrace Kutcher's comments, as though they were conservative. They are, of course, profoundly liberal. It is liberals who honor, extoll and reward hard work. That's why President Obama, Nancy Pelosi, Harry Reid and virtually all Democrats support raising the minimum wage -- to honor and reward those who choose work over welfare, and ensure an honest day's work pays enough to feed a family. That's why President Obama and the Democrats cut taxes on working people by $3,600 over four years. And that's why President Obama won the votes of working-class Americans (those making less than $100,000 a year) by a full 10 points. But perhaps Palin and others on the right have seen the light. Perhaps Kutcher's bracing and bold statement of liberalism has moved them. If so, let's see them walk the walk. Because at the present moment Republicans seem to honor wealth and punish work. How else can you explain that they want a tax code in which a billionaire heiress pays nothing on her inheritance, while the hard-working maid who makes the heiress' bed pays taxes on every nickel she earns? Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney pocketed $42 million during 2011 and 2012. He did not earn that money from work -- he accrued it through wealth. His investments garnered him tens of millions while he ran around the country campaigning. And yet Romney paid merely 12% in taxes. By contrast, a cop married to a teacher, each making the median income of around $50,000 a year, pays a marginal tax rate of 25%. Even with deductions they are almost certainly paying a greater percentage of their income in taxes than mega-millionaire Romney. Palin, who famously quit on the people of Alaska when she got too big for the gig of governing her beautiful state, is an especially unfortunate spokesperson for the value of hard work. One hopes she takes Kutcher's liberal advice to heart, and supports working people in word and deed. And if Palin liked Kutcher's Teen Choice remarks, she'll love this statement: "Success may not come quickly or easily. But if you strive to do what's right, if you work harder and dream bigger, if you set an example in your own lives and do your part to help meet the challenges of our time, then I'm confident that, together, we will continue the never-ending task of perfecting our union." Those are not the words of Ashton Kutcher. No, the liberal extolling hard work and patriotism in those comments was Palin's president -- and mine and Ashton Kutcher's and every American's president: Barack Obama. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Paul Begala. | Sarah Palin praised Ashton Kutcher for his speech about the importance of working hard . Paul Begala: So how did this Hollywood liberal become the darling of conservatives? He says perhaps conservatives saw the light; if so, let's see them walk the walk . Begala: Liberals extoll hard work; conservatives honor wealth, punish work . | 620e105fac11094c83f559ad0dca4dccadb286e2 |
Have you ever wondered which company rules in your state? Well, now you don't have to - thanks to a new revenue map covering all of America's 50 states. The graphic, designed by telecommunications firm Broadview Networks, reveals the largest companies in each state based on income. Revealed: This map, designed by telecommunications firm Broadview Networks, reveals the largest companies in each U.S. state based on revenue. The results were taken from every company's corporate headquarters . It shows that Verizon Communications is the biggest company in New York, while the retailer Costco has trumped Microsoft Corporation in Washington. Although it was founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 1975, Microsoft moved to Bellevue, Washington, just four years later in a bid to recruit more top programmers. According to the map, the retailer Wal-Mart is the leading firm in Arkansas, General Motors in Michigan and the Bank of America in North Carolina. Meanwhile, Johnson & Johnson is the largest company in New Jersey, health care firm CVS Caremark in Rhode Island and chemical company DuPont in Delaware. The graphic, unveiled in a blog by Broadview, is based on financial information from a Hoover's database of company profiles. Popular and lucrative: Verizon (left) was found to be the biggest company in New York by revenue, while the retailer Costco (right) trumped Microsoft Corp. in Washington . It used the location of each firm's corporate headquarters - excluding any branches or foreign offices - to determine which company is the 'largest' in every state. When we saw the most recent release of the Fortune 500, it sparked our interest to learn more about who the largest companies by revenue are in each state,' Russ Fordyce, a managing director at Broadview, wrote on the blog. 'We noticed that many states did not have companies included in the list, so we decided to perform our own research to find the largest company by revenue in each state based on the location of the corporate headquarters.' The map also shows that General Electic is the largest company in Connecticut, Avnet in Arizona, Home Depot International in Georgia, Micron Technology in Idaho, WellPoint in Indiana, Sprint Communications in Kansas and Sanford Health in South Dakota. Surprising: Johnson & Johnson has been revealed as the biggest company in New Jersey . Alabama (headquarters: Birmingham) Regions Bank, a bank and financial services company (revenue: $5.89billion) Alaska (Juneau) Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation, a dedicated fund owned by the state of Alaska ($4.44billion) Arizona (Phoenix) Avnet, Inc, a technology business-to-business distributor ($25.45billion) Arkansas (Bentonville) Wal-Mart Stores, the largest retailer in the world ($476.29billion) California (San Ramon) Chevron Corporation, a global energy corporation ($228.84billion) Colorado (Englewood) Arrow Electronics, Inc, a global company specialising in the distribution of electric components and computer products ($21.35billion) Connecticut (Fairfield) General Electric, a global technology and financial services company ($146.04billion) Delaware (Wilmington) E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, one of the world's largest chemical companies ($36.14billion) Florida (Doral) World Fuel Services Corporation, a global fuel logistics company ($41.56billion) Georgia (Atlanta) Home Depot International, Inc, owns and operates home improvement and construction stores ($85.53billion) Hawaii (Honolulu) Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc, the largest supplier of electricity in Hawaii, ($3.23billion) Idaho (Boise) Micron Technology, Inc, a global corporation and marketer of semiconductor devices ($9.07billion) Illinois (Decatur) Archer Daniels Midland, a global food-processing and commodities-trading firm ($89.8billion) Indiana (Indianapolis) WellPoint, a health care company ($71.02billion) Iowa (Cedar Point) Transamerica Life Insurance Company, a private holding company for life insurance businesses and investment firms ($19.64billion) Kansas (Overland Park) Sprint Communications, Inc, a telecommunications services company. ($34.56billion) Kentucky (Louisville) Humana, Inc, a health care company ($41.31billion) Louisiana (Monroe) CenturyLink, Inc, a global communications and data services firm ($18.09billion) Maine (Scarborough) Hannaford Bros. Co, a supermarket chain ($3.98billion) Maryland (Bethesda) Lockheed Martin Corporation, an advanced technology and security company ($45.35billion) Popular retailer: Many of the largest corporations were predictable, such as Wal-Mart in Bentonville, Arkansas . Massachusetts (Boston) Liberty Mutual Holding Company, Inc, an insurance services company. ($38.5billion) Michigan (Detroit) General Motors, a global company that designs, manufactures and distributes vehicles and vehicle parts($155.42billion) Minnesota (Wayzata) Cargill, Inc, a firm that produces and markets food and agricultural goods and provides financial and industrial services ($136.65billion) Mississippi (Laurel) Sanderson Farms, an integrated poultry processing company ($2.68billion) Missouri (St Louis) Express Scripts Holding, the largest pharmacy benefit management company in the U.S. ($104.09billion) Montana (Billings) Stillwater Mining Company, a palladium and platinum mining firm ($1.03billion) Nebraska (Omaha) Berkshire Hathaway, a publicly-owned investment manager ($182.15billion) Nevada (Las Vegas) Las Vegas Sands Corp, an American casino and resort operating business ($13.76billion) New Hampshire (Portsmouth) Sprague Resources LP, a company that buys, distributes and sells petroleum products ($4.6billion) New Jersey (New Brunswick) Johnson & Johnson, a global pharmaceutical and consumer goods manufacturer($71.31billion) New Mexico (Albuquerque) Presbyterian Healthcare Services, a private not-for-profit health care provider ($2.05billion) New York (New York) Verizon Communications, a telecommunications company ($120.55billion) North Carolina (Charlotte) Bank of America, a global banking and financial services company ($101.69billion) North Dakota (Bismarck) MDU Resources Group, Inc, an energy company ($4.46billion) Ohio (Dublin) Cardinal Health, a health care services company ($101.09billion) Oklahoma (Oklahoma City) Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores, Inc, a company operating fuelling stations and attached convenience stores ($26.09billion) Oregon (Beaverton) Nike, Inc, a global footwear and sportswear company. ($25.31billion) Pennsylvania (Chesterbrook) AmeriSourceBergen, a drug wholesale firm ($87.95billion) Rhode Island (Woonsocket) CVS Caremark, a retailer and health care company ($126.76billion) South Carolina (Hartsville) Sonoco Products Company, a global provider of a variety of consumer packaging, industrial products and protective solutions ($4.48billion) South Dakota (Sioux Falls) Sanford Health, a medical facility ($3.1billion) Tennessee (Memphis) FedEx Corporation, a global delivery services company ($44.28billion) Texas (Irving) Exxon Mobil, the world's largest publicly-traded international oil and gas company ($438.25billion) Utah (Salt Lake City) Huntsman Corporation, a global manufacturer of chemical products ($11.07billion) Vermont (Waterbury) Keurig Green Mountain, Inc, a publicly-traded brand of coffee ($4.35billion) Virginia (McLean) Freddie Mac, a mortgage loan giant ($81.22billion) Washington (Issaquah) CostCo Wholesale, a company that operates an international chain of membership warehouses ($105.15billion) West Virginia (Morgantown) West Virginia University Hospitals, Inc, a not-for-profit firm operating the teaching hospitals of West Virginia University ($42.73billion) Wisconsin (Milwaukee) Johnson Controls, Inc, a global technology and industrial company ($42.73billion) Wyoming (Gillette) Cloud Peak Energy, Inc, a company that produces coal in the Powder River Basin ($1.39billion) Source: Broadview Networks . | Map by telecommunications firm Broadview Networks reveals the largest company in each state based on revenue . Verizon is the biggest firm in New York, Wal-Mart in Arkansas, WellPoint in Indiana and Micron Technology in Idaho . Meanwhile, Costco Wholesale has trumped Bill Gates's Microsoft Corporation to be largest company in Washington . | 6ffa5b5dcf3331a0c5cc8efadb5bdc0a05c4760b |
Wade Lange is the Brisbane-based rag-trader who has taken on the biggest clothing manufacturers in a David and Goliath battle ... and won, claiming the much sought-after licence to produce garments bearing the Marvel Comics Superheroes. With a specific focus, at the moment, on women's wear - Mr Lange and his team of 15, including girlfriend Kelly, have already developed a wide range of the hugely popular Captain America wear and Guardians of the Galaxy garments. They have just started on the other super hero themes, including Spiderman, which will be officially launched on Tuesday. If the demand to fit out female devotees of the Marvel comics stable has been significant, Mr Lange is expected to be over-run once the men's clothing is on the rack. He revealed to Daily Mail Australia that 'our designers are already looking at what we can do in the area of stretch-wear for the blokes, so yes that is already on the cards'. Other favourites to be feature including Ironman, Thor, Hulk and the Avengers. 'Business has quadrupled.' The Captain America range from Living Dead Clothing is now compete. They have produced several Guardians of the Galxy items and will officially launch Spiderman on Tuesday . The brains behind the little battler's win. Wade Lange says he's been run off his feet ever since he started making the Marvel based clothing. The women's wear has been a huge success but the men's clothing will increase demand . Agents of SHIELD leggings (left) will also be in supply as Mr Lange expands his range of Marvel clothes for women . The pitch to Marvel pitted him against some of the biggest names in clothing, keen to get their hands on the lucrative contract with Disney. He is convinced it was dedication that got them over the line. 'I haven't had a day off for many months now and we are determined to be successful,' he told Daily Mail Australia. 'His dedication certainly rubs off on all of us,' added Living Dead Clothing PR boss Taryn Watt. It's the quintessential local boy made good story. 'I started doing it (making leggings) on a bit of a whim, I already had a 9-to-5 job, so it was just a bit of extra work in my garage,' he said. Things began to move very quickly, within months the small side business had begun to grow and then the Disney deal was on the table. The team of two quickly grew to a staff of 15 inside a large all-encompassing warehouse. 'We've gone from working in a small garage to a million dollar company,' he admitted. ''We've secured this exclusive contract for the Marvel characters in stretch-wear and moved into new premises - we are all 100 per cent dedicated to be successful, like him and we work hard for it,' said Ms Watt. 'We stood out from the others because we could show we really cared about our customers and they are very loyal to us.' The Living Dead Clothing team of two quickly grew to a staff of 15 inside a large all-encompassing warehouse. 'We've gone from working in a small garage to a million dollar company.' And now the focus is on Spiderman clothing . PR Manager Taryn Watt pictured in the company's Spiderman gear which will be launched on Tuesday . The company has just started rolling displaying their first array of Avengers and Spiderman outfits . But the best is yet to come. While they have released an extensive Captain America range, including leggings, bodysuits, swimwear, skater dresses and skirts and rain makers, for the ladies - it's what is in store for the blokes which has them super excited. 'Marvel, as we all know, brings with it such a massive cult following - some guys have been reading the comics since they were five years old, they will be a must-have item.' And everything is developed and produced in-house. 'We do not bring anything in from overseas, not one thing,' Ms Watt added. 'It's 100 per cent Australian, from the ideas, to the designing, printing, packing and shipping, we do it all,' Ms Watt added. Living Dead Enterprises has begun producing Captain America garments for women, from bodysuits to leggings and bikinis too. The small Brisbane based company beat some of the world's biggest names to snare the licence from Disney's Marvel range . The Captain America Skater Dress sells for $85 . An image from the popular Marvel film, Guardians of the Galaxy. Living Dead Clothing is the official international licence holder for its motifs on stetch-wear garments . Living Dead Clothing also describes itself as: 'The creation of a small team of like minded people who wanted to create a vision through a brand whereby girls could access the highest quality products.' They boast about being a company 'without the excessive price tag and without the rules (and) 100% Made In Australia'. 'Every girl deserves to be treated like a princess. Every girl deserves a happily-ever-after,' they state in typical story-book style. And following the success with the female styles, Living Dead will be living it up with the release of its Marvel-themed menswear. The Captain America bodycon is expected to be one of the more popular items . | A rag-trader who was working from his small garage in suburban Brisbane beat multi-nationals to snare the world-wide Marvel rights . Living Dead Clothing, the one-time backyard business, is set to become a multi-million dollar company . They produce leggings, skater dresses and bikinis emblazoned with Captain America, Guardians of the Galaxy and Spiderman images . Owner Wade Lange has had to put on 10 more staff in just a few months . The women's garments are flying out the doorwith menswear to follow . | 5630de7337187bf03ad591099c9269daa4104fa9 |
Looking shyly into the camera, nothing in Deng Wen Ge’s high school volleyball team photograph suggests that she was destined for bigger things. In this exclusive photograph from 1980, she was certainly taller than many of her classmates at 5ft 11 inches, but both her name – Chinese for ‘Cultural Revolution’ – and her conservative hairstyle fitted right in with her Communist peers in the factory city of Xuzhou. Few among her wealthy, well-connected society friends in the United States would recognize the teenage athlete, as Wendi Deng, who until last summer was the wife of Rupert Murdoch, the world’s most powerful and controversial media mogul. Young dreams: Wendi Deng, then known as Deng Wen Ge, in her high school volleyball team in 1980 . Work: Ms Deng was said to have had 'some cosmetic surgery work' when she moved to America with the main ambition of becoming 'rich and famous' Through sheer force of will and the patronage of certain well-placed friends, Wendi, the name she adopted in her teens, went from the poor daughter of a $50-a-month factory manager living in a town where the lights went out every night at 7pm to a multi-millionaire divorcee in a $60million triplex on Fifth Avenue in the city that never sleeps. The first step in her remarkable journey began with her arrival in California in February 1988 after meeting a 50-year-old American engineer working on a project in Xuzhou, who agreed to help improve her English. With the enthusiastic co-operation of his wife, Jake Cherry sponsored Wendi’s student visa and put her up at their La Cresenta, California, home sharing a bedroom with their five-year-old daughter. Suddenly, from sharing clothes with friends in Xuzhou and donning her lookalike high school volleyball team uniform, Wendi was wearing pairs of $200 jeans, her California State University, Northridge, economics professor Daniel Blake told Vanity Fair. In a 2007 interview by writer Eric Ellis for Australia’s ‘The Monthly’ magazine, Blake also described Wendi as 'a trendy dresser, a modern girl'. Now: Ms Deng attended the New York Collection by Martin Katz reception at The New York Palace on February 11. It was the first time she was seen in public since a revealing Vanity Fair profile . According to another of her professors, Kenneth Chapman, Wendi, one of his brightest students, had ‘some kind of cosmetic surgery’ and turned up wearing dark glasses at around that time when she was living in Los Angeles in the mid-1990s. ‘I don’t remember a whole lot,’ Chapman said this week. ‘We are going back to the 1990s. ‘When she graduated there was a picture of her taken when she had a lunch with a couple of friends.’ ‘Can you imagine what it would've been like, how she got there with no knowledge of the culture?’ a New York friend of Wendi’s told Ellis. ‘It was almost inevitable that she was going to make some mistakes. I don't think she has an evil personality; she just has this incredible ambition coupled with this lack of self-consciousness. She got to California and she wanted to social-climb, to get out of the situation that got her there.’ By this time, the Cherry’s marriage had become a casualty of Wendi’s move to the West. According to a numerous reports, Jake Cherry - who is now 76 - was kicked out of the family home by his wife, Joyce, after she discovered he was having an affair with his young protégé. Power: Ms Deng enjoyed a rapid rise from the daughter of a factory worker in Communist China to the wife of Rupert Murdoch, enjoying a life of luxury in a $60million triplex on Fifth Avenue, New York . Wendi and Cherry wed in February 1990, but the marriage lasted just four months before she met a . Revelations: The Vanity Fair piece stoked up rumors that she had a crush on former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and liked his 'good body' younger man, David Wolf, who was closer to her own age. The Wall Street Journal later reported the divorce became official after two years and seven months in 1992, which is seven months longer than what was required for Deng to obtain a 'green card'. From there, Deng’s social ascent became all the more rapid. She enrolled in an MBA course at the prestigious Yale School of management in 1995 and as part of her internship requirement she won a temporary job at Star TV, a satellite television station in Hong Kong that was owned by Murdoch’s NewsCorp. The internship may have taken her back to Communist China, but it was also the direct route to the heart of one of the titans of capitalism. Simply put, according to her old Star TV colleagues, Deng’s ‘ambition was to be rich and famous.’ It wasn’t long before an opportunity came her way to meet Murdoch when she was reportedly asked to accompany him as an interpreter and guide on a trip to Shanghai. The May-December working relationship developed into a romance, rocking the Murdoch family. Murdoch and Wendi were married in 1999, just 17 days after his divorce from ex-wife Anna. The union would bring the couple two children and all the fame Wendi could have ever dreamed of. She met the Queen of England and hobnobbed with tycoons and movie stars. Her photograph was a staple of the society columns and, if a recent Vanity Fair article is to believed, she was impressed by other powerful men like Google chairman Eric Schmidt. According to a note to herself written by Wendi that was published in Vanity Fair, she was more than happy with the way her transformation from Chinese factory town girl to Manhattan society maven has worked out. Break up: Ms Deng divorced Mr Murdoch last year after having two of his children. Her notes that were revealed in Vanity Fair revealed that she thought she had 'style, grace' that she 'looked gorgeous and so young, so cool' ‘Lisa [girlfriend of Eric Schmidt, left] will never have my style, grace,’ she wrote. ‘I achieved my purpose of Eric saw me looking so gorgeous and so fantastic and so young, so cool, so chic, so stylish, so funny and he cannot have me.’ The article also revealed details of a lovestruck note from Ms Deng, in which she praised former British Prime Minister Tony Blair’s ‘good body’, his ‘really, really good legs’ and even his ‘butt’. It said staff at Mr Murdoch’s home in Carmel, California, were uneasy when Mr Blair arrived and tried to find her. The magazine claimed they told him Ms Deng had gone to the master bedroom, but ‘by the time they could tell her, Mr Blair was looking for her, they found Mr Blair walking into the master bedroom and closing the door behind him’. On another occasion ‘they were feeding each other during dinner, which made the staff uncomfortable’, the magazine claimed. Mr Blair’s friends deny he had an affair, they were feeding each other and that he was ever alone with Ms Deng. Vanity Fair says Mr Blair had 'rolled his eyes' and looked 'panicked' when he was told Mr Murdoch would not be joining them until the following night. Just a week after the Vanity Fair story broke, Wendi, now 45, was back in the limelight hosting a diamond promotional night in New York. Wearing a glamorous lace black and cerise gown she could afford to smile for the camera. She’d come a very long way from that posed team photo with her high school sports team. | Then called Deng Wen Ge, Wendi Deng pictured in 1980 volleyball team . Poor daughter of factory manager where lights went out at 7pm every night . Was taken to US by older married man who she later wed . University professor remembers her having cosmetic surgery . Friends remember her main ambition was 'to be rich and famous' Went on to marry Rupert Murdoch and have two children before divorce . Notes emerged in which she describes former British PM Tony Blair's 'good body' and 'butt' Said girlfriend of Google boss Eric Schmidt will never have 'my style, my grace' | 37de3860939138e3765e3299a7ec7ea3c5c698bb |
Teachers who under-perform will have their salaries frozen under plans to end the system of national pay deals for classroom staff. Annual rises for teachers will be scrapped and heads given almost complete freedom to dictate salary increases in the shake-up outlined in the Autumn Statement. National pay scales which virtually guaranteed teachers annual £2,000 rises will be axed from next September. Instead heads will award increases based on annual appraisals of performance in the classroom, allowing them to reward the best teachers and limit the pay of the least effective. Collision course: Mr Osborne faces a backlash from unions, who branded the proposals 'unfair' (file image) The reforms also mean that heads will . be able to withhold the 1 per cent pay rise due for public sector . workers in 2013/14 and 2014/15. Only those on the lowest salaries in . three broad pay bands will be guaranteed the increase. The move – which will be put out to . consultation – strikes at the heart of national pay bargaining and . severely weakens the power of teaching unions. Ministers hope it will boost . standards in the classroom. Education Secretary Michael Gove said: . ‘These recommendations will make teaching a more attractive career and a . more rewarding job. They will give schools greater flexibility to respond to specific conditions and reward their best teachers.’ Chancellor George Osborne tells MPs in his Autumn Statement today that headteachers will be given the power to pay teachers more if they perform better in the job than colleagues . But union barons declared war over . the ‘disastrous’ and ‘cynical’ proposals, raising the prospect of a . fresh wave of strike action in schools. Currently, teachers move up the main . pay scale according to length of service in the classroom. The system . has meant that long-serving but under-performing teachers are paid the . same as more capable colleagues. Under proposed reforms, heads would be able to promote a teacher from a £21,000-a-year salary to £51,000 in just six months. The plans were unveiled by George Osborne following recommendations from the School Teachers’ Review Body (STRB). Boost classroom standards: Education Secretary Michael Gove, pictured with Lia Thomas (left) and Chloe Teggart, says the recommendations 'will make teaching a more attractive career and a more rewarding job' The Chancellor said national pay . arrangements for civil servants, prison officers and NHS staff will . continue, but told MPs there would be greater flexibility for schools. ‘The School Teachers’ Review Body . does recommend much greater freedom for individual schools to set pay in . line with performance,’ he said. National pay negotiations will remain . but agreed rises will no longer be guaranteed for the vast majority of . staff. Heads will instead have discretion over whether to pass the . increases on. Chris Keates, general secretary of NASUWT, said the independent STRB may have been 'leant on' - a claim denied by the Government . However the Chancellor appears to . have abandoned plans for regional pay bargaining for schools, which . could have meant that a teacher in the north-east was paid less than one . in the south-east. Under yesterday’s proposals, detailed . national pay scales for teachers will be ripped up and replaced with . three broad pay bands – starting at £21,804, £34,523 and £37,836 for . teachers outside London. While teachers will be protected from . pay cuts, heads will have wide discretion to dictate salaries within . each band based on classroom performance – including pupil results – and . accelerate staff through the three levels. There is already an element of performance-related pay for more senior teachers, which will be strengthened and extended to all. The changes apply only to teachers, . with pay arrangements for heads and deputies remaining largely . unchanged. Heads of state-funded academies and free schools already have . the freedom to dictate teachers’ pay. Yesterday’s proposals apply to . the majority of schools which operate under the auspices of local . authorities. Chris Keates, general secretary of . the NASUWT union, said the independent STRB may have been ‘leant on’ – a . claim denied by the Government. ‘The war on teachers waged by the . Coalition Government continues,’ she said. ‘If implemented, the STRB’s . recommendations would leave behind the wreckage of a national pay . framework which will be incapable of delivering consistent, fair and . transparent approaches to pay.’ Teacher Emma Taylor says the reforms . announced by the Chancellor yesterday were already in operation in many . academy schools in England. Miss . Taylor, 40, right, is a primary school teacher in Stroud, . Gloucestershire, and has taught children of varying ages during a . 15-year career. Miss . Taylor, who is on the upper pay scale two, said the effectiveness of . George Osborne’s reforms will depend on the ability of the head teacher . at each school. She said: . ‘This could work but only if there are good head teachers to implement . it. In some schools there certainly are those who are fair. ‘But in others it could be used to get rid of teachers who the head would like to replace. ‘It really does depend on the head teacher. I do not think that would necessarily be fair. ‘It is already commonplace in academy schools but not in those run by the local education authority.’ Miss Taylor added: ‘I have already proved that I am a very good teacher by reaching the upper pay scale. It would not be right for me to be paid less at a different school if I have already been judged to be worth that amount.’ | Chancellor gives heads power to reward teachers if they perform better than their colleagues . Annual rises for teachers will be scrapped and heads given almost complete freedom to dictate salary increases . NASUWT union: 'It will be bad for children's education and bad for the teaching profession' Unions warn that there will be a fresh wave of strike action in schools . | 900ab45fdc49f2e6e58f4e9e234b0ab5488d6ed8 |
(CNN) -- Sen. Barack Obama said he was "deeply disappointed" by a sermon at his church this week that mocked Sen. Hillary Clinton. A video making the rounds on YouTube shows the Rev. Michael Pfleger mocking Clinton for becoming teary-eyed before the New Hampshire primary in January. In the video, Pfleger wipes his eyes with a handkerchief and suggests Clinton wept because she thought that as a white person and the wife of a former president, she was entitled to the presidency. "And then, out of nowhere, came 'Hey, I'm Barack Obama,' " Pfleger said during a sermon Sunday at Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, Illinois. "And [Clinton] said, 'Oh damn, where did you come from? I'm white! I'm entitled! There's a black man stealing my show!' " Watch Pfleger mock Clinton » . The video shows the congregation laughing and cheering. Pfleger is a Catholic priest at St. Sabina Roman Catholic Church on Chicago's southwest side. He is also a friend of Trinity's former pastor, the Rev. Jeremiah Wright, from whom Obama distanced himself in April. At the time, Obama said he was "outraged" by Wright's remarks suggesting the U.S. government might be responsible for the spread of AIDS in the black community and equating some American wartime efforts with terrorism. Obama has known Pfleger for more than 20 years. His campaign condemned Pfleger's comments. "As I have traveled this country, I've been impressed not by what divides us, but by all that that unites us," Obama said in a statement Thursday. "That is why I am deeply disappointed in Father Pfleger's divisive, backward-looking rhetoric, which doesn't reflect the country I see or the desire of people across America to come together in common cause." The Clinton camp also condemned Pfleger's remarks. "Divisive and hateful language like that is totally counterproductive in our efforts to bring our party together and have no place at the pulpit or in our politics," the Clinton campaign said. "We are disappointed that Sen. Obama didn't specifically reject Father's Pfleger's despicable comments about Sen. Clinton and assume he will." Pfleger apologized for his comments Thursday evening. "I regret the words I chose on Sunday," he said in a statement. "These words are inconsistent with Sen. Obama's life and message, and I am deeply sorry if they offended Sen. Clinton or anyone else who saw them." | Sermon at Sen. Barack Obama's church took aim at Sen. Hillary Clinton . The Rev. Michael Pfleger said Clinton cried because she felt entitled to presidency . Obama says he's "deeply disappointed" by what he calls a "divisive" sermon . Pfleger apologizes, says his words were inconsistent with Obama's message . | aa1914ff1697d25b96d468f07312ff8d36839844 |
Chelsea playmaker Oscar has praised Cesc Fabregas' impact at Stamford Bridge - and already feels his partnership with the Spaniard can guide Chelsea to the Premier League title. Fabregas arrived in a £30million deal from Barcelona this summer and was seen by some as a replacement for Oscar in attacking midfield - but instead the pair started Chelsea's two opening games together before the Brazilian missed out at Everton through injury. And Oscar is already pleased with the way things are going, holding the belief that the similarity between himself and Fabregas makes them the perfect partnership to power Chelsea's midfield. VIDEO Scroll down to see Oscar's Brazilian show boat . Perfect pair? Oscar is enjoying playing alongside Cesc Fabregas in Chelsea's midfield this season . Pass master: Oscar reckons that he and Fabregas are very similar - and that helps Chelsea to win games . In and out: Oscar started in Chelsea's two opening games but injury ruled him out of the trip to Everton . 'Maybe it’s the way Fabregas plays,' Oscar told Chelsea magazine. 'He plays very similarly to me – but we have worked very well together in the first games of this season and we also get on very well. He came into the team and immediately he fitted in very well. 'Coming deeper to get the ball is something that I’ve always done, but it is also something that the manager likes me to do and, in the same way, Fabregas and Willian also do it. Impressive: The Brazilian playmaker looked back to his best against Burnley in Chelsea's opening game . Club and country: Oscar identified Willian as another player who likes to drop back to find space . 'We have been switching positions a lot and we hope to perfect that as the season goes on because it has been working very well for the team.' Chelsea have won all three of their opening games in the Premier League and this weekend come up against the league's only other side boasting a 100 per cent record - Swansea. But Oscar believes that even after an international break that sees him and Brazil team-mates play against Ecuador in Rio de Janerio at 2am UK time on Wednesday, the Blues will be ready to resume their title charge when they return to action at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. 'I think that we are looking very good at the moment. All the players are at a high level, but now we have to continue playing well because every one of us wants to win the Premier League this season.' The latest edition of Chelsea magazine is on sale now - you can download a digital version to view on your tablet HERE. | Cesc Fabregas arrived at Chelsea in a £30million deal this summer . There was talk he could replace Oscar as Chelsea's chief playmaker . But the pair started the Blues' opening two games together . And Oscar believes the similarities of the two make them great partners . He says they have been switching positions for the good of the team . Oscar and his Brazil team-mates face Ecuador at 2am on Wednesday . | f6ff03106aaba2d5f9f3b42546b5a8b1a32456e3 |
By . Fiona Macrae . IN SOFIA . Starting young: Research has suggested children who eat more sugary foods are more likely to have stressful lives . Children as young as five seek solace in food when anxious and stressed, a study has found. Although some adults are well-known to be emotional eaters, the research shows that the seeds are sown at a very young age. Rows at home, bullying and illness all drive youngsters to reach for unhealthy, sugar-filled snacks, an obesity conference heard. Belgian researchers asked more than 300 children, aged between five and ten, questions about their lives. Topics covered included whether they had experienced stressful life events, such as the divorce of their parents or the death of a grandparent, and how angry, anxious, sad and happy they felt. Bullying, problems with friends and rows with brothers and sisters were also factored in and parents answered questions about their children’s behaviour. The parents also filled in a questionnaire about how often their children ate various foods, while the youngsters explained when they felt driven to eat particular foods. The results showed that the more stressful a child’s life, the more sweet foods they ate. Girls were particularly prone to comfort eat and to give into temptation when times were tough, the European Congress on Obesity in Sofia, Bulgaria, heard. It is feared the children will take even more solace in food as they get older and are able to buy and prepare it themselves. Researcher Nathalie Michels, of Ghent University, also showed that levels of the hormone cortisol rose with stress. She thinks this may stop the body reaction to leptin, a hormone that normally tells our body when it has had enough to eat. Dr Michels said that that parents and schools should teach children who to cope with life’s ups and downs. She said: ‘Parents and children should be made aware that stress can influence emotional eating behaviour, so they can pay attention to potential triggers and anticipate this behaviour. ‘Furthermore, children should be equipped with stress-coping skills, such as problem-solving or asking for help, instead of seeking solace in food.’ Others said that parents should be aware that they are role models. Tam Fry of the National Obesity Forum, said: ‘From the moment that an infant is born it learns that sweetness brings comfort. It should therefore be of no surprise that it is sophisticated enough, even by age five, to know that it’ll feel better about some unhappy event having eaten a chocolate biscuit or something sugary. Habit: Experts warned that children learn comfort eating behaviour from their parents . ‘After all, that’s what mummy does and parents are role models and copied. ‘Mummy, of course, should know better but most five year olds olds will lack the knowledge that indulgence food can be bad for you, and be habit forming, if not eaten in moderation. ‘There’s nothing wrong with the occasional sweet treat - but that’s a far cry from comfort eating to relieve stress.’ One in ten children aged four to five in England is obese. By the time they are ten or 11, the figure has doubled. Children who eat a Mediterranean diet at home are 15 per cent less likely to be obese than others, a study of eight European countries found. Meals rich in fruit, vegetables, nuts, oily fish and olive oil kept weight down irrespective of age, gender and socio-economic status, in Sofia heard.Surprisingly, Mediterranean-like meals were more common in Sweden than in Cyprus, the University of Gothenburg researchers said. | Research found rows at home, illness and bullying prompt comfort eating . Belgian researchers quizzed 300 children, aged five to ten, on their habits . Results found the more stressful a child's life, the more sweet food they eat . | 0b9f5124e4301ea048b68fae20a5c7d843627676 |
Russia must address a worsening situation of widespread violence against lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people, human rights campaigners said today. Human Rights Watch has compiled a stark video incorporating clips from some of the worst examples of homophobic violence in Russia which has been filmed and uploaded to the internet. It hopes to pressure the Russian government into action by inciting international opprobrium ahead of the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, which begins on Friday. Victims: LGBT campaigners stand in a huddle as they are photographed after being beaten by homophobic gangs during a protest, in a grab taken from a video of clips compiled by Human Rights Watch . A man yanks on the bag held by one of the gay activists during the protest, in scenes increasingly common in Russia . The country has faced fierce criticism over the climate of fear endured by Russian gays ahead of the Games, with opposition focused around a new law banning the dissemination of 'gay propaganda' to children. 'The Russian authorities have the power to protect the rights of LGBT people, but instead they are ignoring their responsibility to do so,' said Tanya Cooper, Russia researcher at Human Rights Watch. 'By turning a blind eye to hateful homophobic rhetoric and violence, Russian authorities are sending a dangerous message as the world is about to arrive on its doorstep for the Olympics that there is nothing wrong with attacks on gay people.' Victims in cities including Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Novosibirsk told researchers from Human Rights Watch they were attacked in public places, abducted, beaten, harassed, threatened, and psychologically abused. They told the campaign group that they were afraid to go to the police to report violence, fearing further harassment and believing the police would not bother to pursue their attackers. When victims did lodge complaints with the police, few investigations followed, it is claimed. A gang filmed beating a lone gay man in a video uploaded to and distributed on a Russian social network . Human Rights Watch hopes to pressure the Russian government into action over violent homophobia by inciting international opprobrium ahead of the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, which begins on Friday . There has been a disturbing rise in the publication of videos on social networks showing self-described vigilantes dishing out punishment beatings and humiliations to gay people. Starting in late 2012, numerous groups mainly consisting of radical nationalists began attacking and harassing gay people in dozens of Russian cities. Mostly claiming to be fighting pedophilia, these groups lure men and boys to meet, accuse them of being gay, humiliate and beat them, and post videos of the proceedings on social networks, intentionally exposing their victims to further abuse. These groups have posted hundreds of the sickening videos online, often barely bothering to hide their identities because of the apparent impunity in which they are able to operate. Impunity: Many of the ultra-nationalist gangs are so unafraid of any action being taken by the authorities that they make no attempt to disguise their identities in the videos which they upload to the internet . When victims of homophobia did lodge complaints with the police, few investigations followed, it is claimed . The adoption of the federal law banning 'propaganda of non-traditional sexual relations among minors' is but one measure among several federal anti-LGBT laws proposed or adopted in the past year in Russia. Violating the law is an administrative offense punishable by a range of fines. Media and organizations face particularly hefty fines, while foreigners who violate the law are subject to fines, up to 15 days in detention and deportation. The law also bans representing 'traditional' and 'nontraditional' relationships as equally acceptable. That makes it illegal to say anything positive about being gay publicly or to tell a child that there is nothing wrong with being gay or being raised by gay parents. At the same time, Human Rights Watch reports, a vicious homophobic campaign began in the media, particularly state- sponsored and state-controlled media outlets. The group's research found that government officials, journalists, and celebrities have publicly called LGBT people 'perverts', 'sodomites', and 'abnormal', and have conflated homosexuality with pedophilia. Climate of fear: The attacks come as several anti-homosexual laws have been passed in Russia's parliament . Horrific: The ferocity of the violence seen in some of the clips in HRW's compilation is shocking . Left for dead: HRW has warned the Russian government that it must get a grip on the problem . Miss Cooper said: 'The discriminatory impact of the anti-LGBT law and hateful language on state television have created a climate of intolerance against the Russian LGBT community. 'Russian leaders should denounce, not feed, homophobic hysteria, or the Kremlin’s silence will be taken as condoning the violence.' She added: 'Russian officials have long denied that discrimination against LGBT people exists, including to the International Olympic Committee, yet the hostility and violence clearly have been intensifying. 'As Russia hosts the Olympics in this atmosphere of homophobic hatred, the government needs to take urgent measures to support the rights of LGBT people and protect them.' | Human Rights Watch compiles clips of homophobic violence in Russia . Victims from many major cities report being targeted over sexuality . Country has been criticised for laws banning 'gay propaganda' to children . | 9724a4e7eaecc5f149a3a4c9aed03bb3dfe825b1 |
By . Jaya Narain . PUBLISHED: . 09:43 EST, 21 February 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 07:07 EST, 22 February 2013 . This is the dramatic moment McDonald's fraudster Kevin Pomeroy and his nephew Daniel tried to speed away from police in a high-speed chase. Pomeroy, who with his wife Julie conned high street businesses out of millions of pounds, reached speeds of more . than 100mph driving on the hard shoulder of the M60 motorway. Trying to evade capture, he threw incriminating items including a . mobile phone out of the window of his moving car during the eight-minute pursuit. Scroll down for video . Pursuit: A screen grab of the car chase where Pomrroy tried to get rid of evidence by throwing it out the window . Pomeroy hit speeds of 100mph while trying to escape police, even driving on the hard shoulder of the M60 . Pomeroy, 47, stole the identities of executives from McDonald’s and Greggs to order hoards of goods through ‘company accounts’. Over two-and-a-half years he ordered . items worth £20million in one of the biggest frauds of its kind, taking . delivery of £3million of goods. Con-artist: Kevin Pomeroy arriving at Manchester Crown Square Crown Court for sentencing today. He lead an organised crime group behind a £20m scam to defraud major retailers . These included 2,500 laptops, 3,000 . TVs, £400,000 worth of whisky, 20,000 bottles of champagne, 1,600 fake . Christmas trees and 600 coffee machines. The firms included Samsung, Argos, Sanyo, Fujitsu, Sony, M&S, Electrolux, Dyson, Staples, HMV, Jessops and John Lewis. The goods were delivered to empty warehouses across Manchester and then sold on eBay or the black market. Manchester Crown Court heard the Pomeroys set up email addresses in names of genuine employees from the two food companies. They ordered goods from other firms saying they wanted them on the ‘company account’. But they came unstuck when companies demanded payment for the goods they had ordered. Yesterday, Pomeroy, his wife and his nephew Daniel Pomeroy were hauled before a court for fraud. Kevin Pomeroy was sentenced to . eight-and-a-half years in prison, Daniel Pomeroy to three-and-a-half . years, which includes 18 months for a separate fraud offence, and Julie . Pomeroy to 12 months, suspended for two years. She was also ordered to do 150 hours unpaid work. A fourth member of the gang, James Chapman, 22, was jailed for three years after admitting conspiracy. Dazzling: The plush living room in Pomeroy's luxury home in Failsworth, near Oldham , Greater Manchester . The extravagantly-furnished rooms in the £350,000 four bedroom house look like something from a glossy magazine shoot . A child's room at Pomeroy's house. Toys found there included a £1,000 rocking horse plus matching pink chairs and dressing table . The luxurious house's theme was black and white and there were expensive plasma screen TVs dotted throughout . High-end fittings adorn the bathroom of the family home . Plush: The back garden features an enormous trampoline and a a cabin . The black and white kitchen filled with top-end appliances and fittings . The court heard the couple lived in a £350,000 detached four-bedroom house in Failsworth, Oldham. Pomeroy drove a £65,000 Range Rover Sport while his wife had an Audi A3 convertible. They rented a £2,000-a-month apartment in Marbella, Spain and one of their children attended a £10,000-a-year private school. On the walls of their home were signed copies of photographs of Pomeroy’s favourite footballers. Bling: Watches recovered during the investigation. The gang ordered expensive goods and arranged for them to be delivered to addresses in Manchester and Cheshire . A piece of jewellery seized by police . A signed football boot from Brazilian soccer star Ronaldinho and a Manchester United shirt signed by Ryan Giggs are among the sports memorabilia Pomeroy splashed out on . Pomeroy paid for £10,000 dental veneers using proceeds from the fraud . He even spent £10,000 on a set of . dental veneers. One retailer, Celltec, which sells electronic items, . went into liquidation as a direct result of the scam and 40 staff lost . their jobs. Daniel Pomeroy fled to Ireland but was arrested while visiting his mother. Simon Rowlinson, of the Crown . Prosecution Service, said: ‘Purchase orders were placed for items . required for fictitious events including laptops for internet café style . restaurants and over 55,000 bottles of whisky and champagne worth over . half a million pounds for various corporate events.’ Detective Chief Inspector David . Pester said: ‘The gang would order 400 TVs at a time, but the companies . would only discover the fraud when the first 100 were delivered and an . invoice was sent to McDonald’s who said they hadn’t ordered them. ‘The majority of stuff has never been traced.’ VIDEO Kevin and Daniel Pomeroy attempting to evade police during an eight-minute pursuit along the M60 . Julie Pomeroy (left) arriving at court for sentencing. In total, 13 companies fell victim to the scam, recording losses of around £3m . Daniel Pomeroy (left) was also part of the operation. Beautanails nail salon (right) in Oldham, which was used as a front for the money gained during Kevin and Julie's fraud operation . | Kevin Pomeroy posed as an exec and ordered expensive goods on credit . He pretended to be a top-ranking employee of firms like McDonald's . Father-of-two was able to live luxury lifestyle as a result of fraud . One business went bust as a result of elaborate scam which would have netted fraudsters £20m if all their crimes paid off . | 9ca6eb220c421702fb4dd3b1fc7ce1f09aaeaea8 |
Move aside husbands and partners, a new survey has revealed that cheating Australian women are most likely to fantasise about bedding their yoga teachers. The survey, conducted by the dating website Victoria Milan which was designed for people who are married or in a long term relationship, asked over 4000 women who they fantasise about most. Surprisingly, 20 per cent of respondents revealed it was their yoga teacher who featured in their bedroom fantasies, while 18 per cent admitted they daydreamed about a colleague or workplace superior. Scroll down for video . A survey by dating website Victoria Milan, asked over 4000 women who use their website, who they fantasize about most . Twenty per cent of cheating Australian women admitted they fantasised about their yoga teacher . 'A neighbour' was another popular choice amongst women straying from their partners, while an unexpected 10 per cent of votes were also recorded for the option: 'my partner's friend'. Founder and CEO of Victoria Milan, Sigurd Vedal, said that fantasising about these 'untouchables' was a healthy part of relationships. His website, which was launched in 2010, now has over five million members looking for and maintaining secret affairs across 33 countries. 'It's healthy and normal to explore these thoughts, so long as we also consider the consequences if we decide to act on them,' Mr Vedal said. 'A neighbour' was another popular choice amongst women straying from their partners, while an unexpected 10 per cent of votes were also recorded for the option: 'my partner's friend' The survey also found that ten per cent of respondents were also still thinking about their ex, while strangely 7 per cent named their brother in law as their most common fantasy. Apparently it's also men and women in medicine that tickle the fancy of cheating women, with doctors appearing in the top ten fantasies with two per cent of votes. Six per cent of respondents also listed their physiotherapist as their most common fantasy. Over 4000 women participated in the survey which was conducted by Victoria Milan, a dating website for married men and women . | The survey revealed that 20 per cent of cheating women fantasise most about their yoga teacher . Colleagues, neighbours and a partner's friend also featured at the top of the list . Over 4000 women participated in the survey which was conducted by Victoria Milan, a dating website for married men and women . | a454b6f897b5a1b485786f59bce734783610beb6 |
A war of words have kicked off between departing Daily Show host Jon Stewart and wrestling champ Seth Rollins after the WWE star claimed that he could do a better job of hosting the Comedy Central show. Rollins, the current holder of the esteemed Money In The Bank title, was speaking from the ring during Monday night's edition of WWE Raw when he proudly boasted that he had aspirations beyond being 'the future of WWE'. 'Right now, I am the most talented performer in the entire world. I can do whatever I want, whenever I want,' Rollins told the crowd. Scroll down for video . Grudge match: A war of words have kicked off between Daily Show host Jon Stewart and wrestling champ Seth Rollins after the WWE star claimed that he could do a better job of hosting the Comedy Central show . 'Hell, if I wanted, I could become president. Or I could take over as host of The Daily Show for Jon Stewart and make that thing actually watchable.' Stewart, who announced earlier this month that he is leaving his award-winning show after 16 years, is a big fan of WWE and on Thursday responded to Rollins with a short video message in which he warned the wrestler that he was messing with the wrong guy. 'Seth Rollins, you've made a lot of mistakes in your life: Being a turncoat to the Shield, being a toady for the Authority, not being able to choose which color your hair should be – but this is the biggest mistake you ever made,' said Stewart. 'You just stepping in a world of hurt, my friend. I'm coming for you Rollins, and you're gonna see it: 160 pounds of dynamite.' Stewart then admitted that 'my bone density is not what it used to be,' and instead declared himself '160 pounds of wood, like a soft wood. My point is you messed with the wrong guy!' Rollins was quick to tweet that he is willing to take on the Daily Show host in the ring for a grudge match any time, any place. 'You know where to find me Mt Stewart. @WWEJJSecurity will even hold up the middle rope for you,' he tweeted. Rollins was speaking from the ring during Monday night's edition of WWE Raw when he proudly boasted that he had aspirations beyond being 'the future of WWE' Following Stewart's reply, Rollins was quick to tweet that he is willing to take on the Daily Show host . | A war of words have kicked off between the soon-to-depart Daily Show host and WWE star Rollins who claimed that he could do a better job as host . 'Seth Rollins, you've made a lot of mistakes in your life,' said Stewart in a short video posted on Thursday . WWE fan Stewart warned Rollins that he had stepped 'in a world of hurt' and he described himself as '160 pounds of dynamite' Rollins was quick to tweet back that he is willing to take on the Daily Show host in the ring for a grudge match any time, any place . | 98b3418bd658567d671d878dd7e5bd2bfca36d70 |
(CNN) -- A dazed boy's musings after a trip to the dentist's office had a good run. But even with foggy pronouncements like "I have two fingers," he was no match for Britain's talented Susan Boyle. Boyle's surprising vocal performance on "Britain's Got Talent" was far and away the most-watched video of the year on YouTube -- racking up more than 120 million views, according to the site. "David After Dentist," filmed by the boy's father as he was clearly still loopy from medication, was a distant second with about 37 million views. This year is the first time YouTube has released a year-end list. On its blog, YouTube called 2009 "the biggest year yet" for online video. "Some moments were big [President Obama's inauguration], some small [a Minnesota wedding party erupts into dance], some expected ["New Moon"], some surprising [Susan Boyle] -- but all of them inspired, entertained and connected millions of people around the world via YouTube," read the blog. Titled "JK Wedding Entrance Dance," the video of a wedding party's choreographed entrance to the tune of Chris Brown's, "Forever," finished third with about 33 million views while the trailer for the hotly anticipated movie "Twilight: New Moon" was fourth with 31 million. An advertisement for Evian bottled water that featured babies roller-skating to Sugar Hill Gang's "Rapper's Delight" was fifth with about 27 million views. Boyle, a 47-year-old, unemployed, Scottish charity worker, leapt to international stardom after first taking the stage on the British reality show. Audience members and judges seemed to smirk at her frumpy appearance before she rendered a show-stopping version of "I Dreamed a Dream" from the musical "Les Miserables." Boyle would go on to finish second on the contest but her album, released late last month, instantly went gold with more than 701,000 sales in its first week in the United States. YouTube also announced its top search terms for each month of the year -- a list that serves as an instant reminder of the top pop culture moments of 2009. In the United States, the year started with "Obama inauguration" as the fastest rising search term in January and ended with "Tiger Woods" as the most popular term of December. | Susan Boyle's performance is most popular YouTube video of 2009 . "David After Dentist," a boy's hazy pronouncements, finishes a distant second . Wedding dance, skating babies and "Twilight" also make the list . YouTube calls 2009 "biggest year yet" for online video . | 71bde3f1afe100eea4459cb07d02d0cb9dd9ab9d |
PUBLISHED: . 11:33 EST, 3 October 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 11:42 EST, 3 October 2012 . This bird looks to have bagged herself a decent looking dinner after spearing a large fish on the end of her beak. The female Anhinga caught her unfortunate prey while hunting for . food in the Everglades National Park, in Florida. She eventually managed to free the fish from the end of her beak before gulping it down in one go. What a catch: A female Anhinga - commonly known as a 'snake bird' bird - bagged herself a decent dinner after spearing this fish while hunting in the Everglades National Park, Florida . The amazing image was captured on camera by husband and wife photography team Alfred and Fabiola Forns. Mrs Forns said Anhingas, which are known as 'snake birds' in South Florida because of the way their necks look in the water, are particularly efficient at fishing. 'When we see one of them dive, we just wait, because it will not be long before it has a catch,' she said. 'They spear the prey, then surface, flip . it and swallow it. 'If the fish has a strong spine, they seem to know it . and bring it to shore and bang it against a rock or a tree, until they . consider it's ready to eat. 'It's fascinating to watch, and an incredible moment to capture on camera.' Anhingas are regularly seen in South Florida. | Female Anhinga caught its unfortunate prey while fishing in South Florida . Known as 'snake birds' - because of the way their necks look in the water . The efficient hunters use skillful 'spearing' technique to catch fish . | 49a060ef1183a04bd5cd0aa0732aeef77591ed04 |
A Virginia high school administrator spoke out Thursday about her racially charged retweet that sparked a student protest this week and caused her to be placed on leave. Booker T. Washington High School Assistant Principal Amy Strickland released a statement to WAVY-TV saying that she is currently on leave after acknowledging that she retweeted an image that prompted a group of students to walk out of class Monday. Ms Strickland, a mother of two, responded Thursday to the uproar over a June post that had appeared on the satirical Twitter account ‘OrNahhTweets.’ 'Media reports suggesting that I am racially prejudiced are one thousand percent false, as my record and my many students, colleagues, friends, and family members who are African American can and, if necessary, will attest,' she stated. 'I deeply apologize to anyone I have inadvertently offended.' Breaking her silence: Assistant Principal Amy Strickland, left, released a statement Thursday acknowledging that she retweeted this image (right) from the account @OrNahhTweets, along with the caption: ‘every white girl's father's worst nightmare Or Nah' Viral image: Photo of seven interracial prom couples was retweeted by Strickland back in June, but it has gone viral only recently. The educator explained that she shared the picture with her daughter because the teen had had a black prom date herself . The image at the center of the controversy depicted seven couples in prom clothing, the boys black, the girls white, with the caption, "Every white girl's father's worst nightmare Or Nah?" Strickland told WAVY-TV through her lawyer that she forwarded the tweet to one of her daughters as a joke and never interpreted it as racist. Strickland noted that both of her daughters went to prom with black dates. 'The "tweet" appeared to me at the time to have been an attempt at good natured humor concerning mixed race couples attending a high school prom,' she wrote. 'I have devoted years of my life to educating students in a predominantly African American school and was named Teacher of the Year for the predominantly African American Portsmouth school system last year. 'Partly because of my exemplary record of working well and achieving success in an urban school system, I was hired this fall as Assistant Principal at Booker T. Washington.' Amy Strickland revealed also in her statement Thursday that she is currently on administrative leave. The educator pointed out through her attorney that she issued the statement as an individual, not as an employee of Booker T. Washington High School. The school administration reportedly has banned Strickland for talking to the press. The NAACP, which has launched an investigation into the matter, responded to Strickland's statement saying that the organization is not calling her racist, but they want to know what motivated her to retweet the picture. 'We hold the administration accountable for their actions. We will not tolerate racism in this city and definitely not in the education system,' stated NAACP President Joe Dillard. 'Booker T. Washington High School is a fragile school; and the last thing we need in our community are students walking out of school in protest to racist administrators.' On Monday, about a dozen students at Booker T. Washington High School in Norfolk staged a walk-out to draw attention to the racially charged message sent out by the white educator. 'I could have been any one of the boys in the picture,' Booker T Washington junior Michael LeMelle, who is African-American, told the station WAVY. 'And I really don’t see myself... as anyone’s worst nightmare.' For the past week, students at the school have been sharing among themselves screenshots of the incendiary tweet, which has since been deleted, along with Amy Strickland's account. Students said that they have appealed to the faculty last week to look into the retweet, but their pleas have fallen on deaf ears. Norfolk School Board members told the news station Monday that they were unaware of the tweet until WAVY reached out to them for comment. Shakira Harris said that she and her classmates do not necessarily want Strickland fired, but they believe she deserves to be reprimanded for her poor judgement. ‘Do something to let us know it has not gone unnoticed,’ Harris pleaded. Video Source 13NewsNow.com . Troubled school: The Norfolk, Virginia, high school lost its accreditation last month over poor test scores and low graduation rates . Norfolk Federation of Teachers President Thomas Calhoun issued a statement Tuesday taking the school board and the Booker T Washington administration to task for allegedly dragging their feet. ‘Sometimes they seem to be hoping the problem will go away or maybe no one will notice,’ Calhoun wrote. ‘I feel everyone would be better served if they would address issues before the news media, the public, the staff, and the students get involved and form their own opinions of what is going on.’ According to her biography on Booker T Washington High School’s website, Amy Strickland, a graduate of Old Dominion University and Eastern Virginia Medical School, where she earned a Master's degree in public health, was hired as assistant principal earlier this year. After working in public health education for several years, Strickland switched gears in 2008 and became a science teacher and cheerleading couch in Portsmouth, where she led her team to 17 Eastern District and Conference titles. This year, she won three Teacher of The Year awards, including the overall citywide award for Portsmouth. The school, named after the legendary 19th century African-American community leader, educator and presidential adviser Booker T Washington, has more than 1,400 students enrolled in 9-12 grades, with 85 per cent of them black. Last month, Virginia's Board of Education stripped the high school of its accreditation because it has failed to meet state minimum scores on the Standards of Learning tests and graduation rates for the past four years. | Photo of seven interracial prom couples was retweeted by Booker T Washington High School Assistant Principal Amy Strickland back in June . Students at Norfolk, Virginia, school spotted the tweet recently and alerted the administration, but they say nothing has been done . Strickland was hired by the predominantly African-American school this year after winning Teacher of the Year award in Portsmouth, Virginia . Strickland released a statement Thursday saying she is on administrative leave and apologizing for offending anyone . Stated that she retweeted message to her daughter in June as a joke . | a3cbf34166ebce3bef31511aafa5bf5c035bf504 |
By . Ian Sparks . PUBLISHED: . 03:48 EST, 21 June 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 03:55 EST, 21 June 2012 . A witness has come forward with crucial new evidence in the 'cold case' murder of British student Joanna Parrish in France 22 years ago. The 20-year-old was raped and strangled before her body was dumped in a river in Burgundy. She had arranged to meet a man who had answered her newspaper advert offering private English lessons before she vanished. Now a woman has told police how she remembers her ex-boyfriend returning home one evening in May 1990 with 'scratch marks on his face'. Evidence: Joanna Parrish (left) was found raped . and strangled in a river in 1990. The new investigation is probing . convicted killer Michel Fourniret (right) and a new suspect named only as TV . The witness, who was living in the same area of Burgundy near the River Yonne, said her former partner had also been carrying a similar denim bag to one Joanna was known to have owned. A second woman who dated the same man ten years later has also told police that he boasted to her of having murdered a young woman in Burgundy in 1990. The suspect - named only by his initials TV - is currently serving a prison sentence for separate offences and had now been quizzed by detectives, the regional L'Yonne newspaper reported. Didier Seban, the French lawyer for Joanna's parents Roger and Pauline Parrish, described the latest development as a 'serious lead'. He told L'Yonne newspaper: 'On the basis of this new evidence, which is still being verified, investigators are following up a serious new lead regarding a man with a long criminal past. 'Joanna's parents, who have often had the impression of being abandoned by the French justice system, have renewed hope of finally seeing a result to the inquiry.' Roger and Pauline Parrish are still fighting for justice, 22 years on . The investigation into the unsolved murder was re-opened on June 6 when detectives agreed to re-examine evidence against a second suspect, convicted serial killer Michel Fourniret. Fourniret, 69, was dubbed the 'Beast of the Ardennes' after he strangled, shot or stabbed seven girls aged between 12 and 21 in remote rural spots in France and Belgium. He was convicted of multiple murders and sentenced to life in prison in 2008. Fourniret had been in the Yonne area of Burgundy when Joanna, from Newnham on Severn, Gloucestershire, was murdered, . But earlier attempts to prosecute him for her murder failed after police were accused of extracting evidence from his wife under duress. Roger Parrish, 68, said after the latest evidence emerged: 'We are very pleased. They said there are now two strands to the investigation. 'One is Michel Fourniret and his ex-wife and there are many questions to be answered about that. The new lead we don't know much about. 'All I know is it's a man who is serving a prison sentence for violent sexual crimes and in the investigations an informant told the police they suspected he was involved in Jo's murder.' | 20-year-old beaten, raped and strangled while teaching in France in 1990 . Woman tells police she remembers her ex-boyfriend coming home . Had 'scratch marks on his face' and was carrying similar bag to Joanna's . Named only as TV, new suspect currently in jail for violent, sexual crimes . | c2c121fc60cf799e7928cb19e56c1f40a79ac573 |
Marston Hefner arrested for domestic abuse and released on $20,000 bail . Police came to couple's apartment after calls from 20-year-old Claire Sinclair's concerned family . Last year's Playmate of the Year has filed for an emergency restraining order against her boyfriend, the son of Playboy tycoon Hugh Hefner. The model, Clair Sinclair, 20, told TMZ today that she was granted a five-day stay-away order so that she could move out of the apartment she shares with Marston Hefner, 21. Police sources later said the injunction was valid for three days. Moving out: Playmate of the Year Claire Sinclair was photographed while taking belongings out of her apartment after filing an emergency restraining order against Hugh Hefner's son, Marston . Marks: Miss Sinclair was spotted with a large bruise on her right arm as she moved some belongings out of the apartment she shares with Marston Hefner . Miss Sinclair was later photographed with a large bruise on her arm while taking some of her belongings out of the Pasadena apartment. Marston Hefner, 21, reportedly kicked Miss Sinclair and punched her in the stomach during a fight the couple had late last night. Police responded to the residence after receiving worried calls from Miss Sinclair's family. Romance gone sour: Marston Hefner and Claire Sinclair in happier times as they attend a party in Las Vegas last year . Marston Hefner reportedly told police that the two had been arguing but that he had not physically injured his girlfriend. Hefner was arrested for misdemeanor domestic violence but released on $20,000 bail. Miss Sinclair was the Playboy official pin-up and Playmate of the year 2011. Among the many, many women the Playboy tycoon has dated, are: . - Kimberley Conrad: Playmate of year 1989; wife from 1989 - 2010; mother of his sons Cooper and Marston . - Brande Roderick: Playmate of the year 2001; Baywatch actress . - Tina Marie Jordan: Playmate of the month, March 2002 . - Crystal Harris: Playmate of the month, December 2009; due to become Hefner's third wife before she broke off the engagement five days before the wedding last year . Hugh Hefner told Fox News that Miss Sinclair's style reminded him of Bettie Page - a popular 1950s pinup model who was also Playboy Magazine's Miss January cover model in 1955. Miss Sinclair has been dating Marston Hefner since August 2010. She was born in 1991 in Los . Angeles and has been modelling since the age of 14. She has taken part . in fashion campaigns for Angel Jeans and stars on Playboy TV. She told Maximo TV last year that she and Marston Hefner had a 'tumultuous' relationship. Marston Hefner's mother Kimberley . Conrad, is the ex-wife of Hugh Hefner and Playmate of the Year 1989. Ms . Conrad was married to Hugh Hefner between 1989 and 2010. Marston . was born on April 9, 1990 and shares the same birthday as his father . Hugh. He has a younger brother Cooper Bradford Hefner who was born on . September 4, 1991. According to his Twitter page, Marston Hefner is a philosophy college major who also studies business and writing. In . an interview with GQ in 2008, then 18-year-old Marston said: 'My, like, . expectancy for what girl I'm going to get is, like, so f*****-up. 'I've . just been around really hot women my entire life, so the average high . school girl won't do it for me.' Bunny: Claire Sinclair, 20, was said to have impressed Playboy publisher Hugh Hefner and was chosen for the cover of Playboy last year . Trouble: Marston Hefner (centre) allegedly kicked Claire Sinclair (right) and punched her in the stomach at their Californian apartment. Marston is the son of Playboy tycoon Hugh Hefner (left) Settling down: Hugh Hefner, 63, married 25-year-old Kimberly Conrad in 1989. She had two sons Marston and Cooper before the couple divorced in 2010 . Man about town: Playboy tycoon Hugh Hefner pictured with two Playmates as he attends a gala in Los Angeles last week . | Marston Hefner arrested for domestic abuse and released on $20,000 bail . Police came to couple's apartment after calls from 20-year-old Claire Sinclair's concerned family . | ddf1406c615a9946773b74e2d876f4f80251b30c |
By . John Drayton . All 64 World Cup matches will be broadcast on flights around the world this summer for the first time in history. The groundbreaking deal, which will see live sports channel Sport 24 show all the action from Brazil, means passengers no longer have to worry about missing their country's games while flying. A total of nine airlines are signed up with the service, including Lufthansa, Emirates, Etihad and Turkish Airlines. Entertainment: Lufthansa are one of nine airlines ready to show live World Cup games on flights this summer . Pressure: Passengers will be able to watch Neymar and Brazil try to win the World Cup on home soil . Countdown to kick-off: England's group games against Italy, Uruguay and Costa Rica will be available to view . The majority of games will be shown live, including the tournament's opening fixture between hosts Brazil and Croatia on June 12. Match coverage will be produced by FIFA's TV broadcast production team before it's tailored for in-flight viewing by IMG Media. Richard Wise, senior vice president of IMG Media, said: 'We are committed to showing the biggest events live on Sport 24 and we are obviously therefore delighted that we will be carrying FIFA TV’s broadcast production of the 2014 FIFA World Cup on the channel. 'Football fans who will need to travel by air during the tournament can now choose to do so safe in the knowledge that they need not miss any of the action in Brazil this summer.' Main attraction: Lionel Messi and his Argentina team-mates are sure to prove popular during flights . Star man: Portuguese passengers will be hoping to watch Cristiano Ronaldo (centre) lead his country to glory . Patrick Brannelly, vice president . corporate communications of Emirates, said: 'Since we began our official . partnership with FIFA in 2006, we’ve shown "as live" matches on . Emirates and sent goal by goal updates to our award winning inflight . entertainment system, ice. 'For 2014, we are delighted to offer live coverage from Brazil on Sport 24 to customers on select Boeing 777s.' As well as the World Cup, Sport 24 also shows Premier League fixtures, Formula One, all four golf majors and all four tennis grand slams. | Sport 24 is distributed on over aircraft across nine airlines . All 64 World Cup matches will be shown live . First time ever all games shown live internationally during flights . Up to 3.5million passengers could watch the action from Brazil . | dc7c189f52acd73ff718205880f9745c2e01ef67 |
William 'Wild Bill' Guarnere, one of the World War II veterans whose exploits were dramatized in the TV miniseries Band of Brothers, has died. He was 90 . His son, William Guarnere Jr., confirmed on Sunday that his father died at Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Guarnere was rushed to the hospital early Saturday and died of a ruptured aneurysm later that night. Scroll down for video . World War II veteran William "Wild Bill" Guarnere, seen here participating in the Veterans Day parade in Media, Pa. in 2004, has died at the age of 90 . William Guarnere lost a leg while helping a wounded soldier during the Battle of the Bulge. This photo was reportedly taken as he left hospital at the time . 'He had a good, long life,' his son said. The HBO miniseries, based on a book by Stephen Ambrose, followed the members of Easy Company, 506th Regiment, 101st Airborne Division from training in Georgia in 1942 through some of the war's fiercest European battles through the war's end in 1945. Its producers included Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg. Guarnere was portrayed by the actor Frank John Hughes. Guarnere, whose combat exploits earned him his nickname, lost a leg while trying to help a wounded solider during the Battle of the Bulge. His commendations included the Silver Star, two Bronze Stars and two Purple Hearts. 'Wild Bill' is seen here with the actor that played him in Band of Brothers, Frank John Hughes, at the premiere of the HBO series in Los Angeles in 2001 . Frank John Hughes played William Guarnere in the TV series Band of Brothers on HBO . In 2007, Guarnere helped write a nationally best-selling memoir called, Brothers in Battle, Best of Friends, with fellow south Philadelphian veteran Edward J. 'Babe' Heffron and journalist Robyn Post. Heffron died in December at the age of 90. There are now believed to be three surviving members of the original Band of Brothers. In 2009 it was recorded there were 20 members of Easy Company alive, however that figure has not been recently updated. William Guarnere Jr. said his father and Heffron met during the war and remained friends until Heffron died in December. 'Now they're together again,' the son said. Jake Powers, who operates a Band of Brothers tour company in Grafton, Mass., said Guarnere worked behind the scenes to ensure that his comrades received the recognition they deserved. 'He did more things behind the scenes for other veterans than (for) himself,' Powers said. Funeral arrangements were incomplete Sunday. Real war heroes: Guarnere and the rest of his Band Of Brothers fought through some of World War II's fiercest European battles . William Wild Bill Guarnere conducts an interview at his home in Philadelphia in September 2007 . The 'Easy Company' landed several miles from where they planned to on June 6 1944, and had to trek in full gear to Utah Beach on Normandy's coastline . They proceeded to knock out German soldiers and cannons at Brecourt Manor that were firing on allied forces. Upon its release in 2001, Band of Brothers was the most expensive miniseries to ever be produced, costing $12.5 million per episode. It was nominated for 19 Emmy Awards and won six but received numerous other accolades. Immortalized: Guarnere was featured prominently . in historian Stephen Ambrose's 1992 book, Band Of Brothers, upon which . the HBO miniseries was based . | William Guarnere was part of Easy Company, 506th Regiment, 101st Airborne Division . He fought in some of the fiercest battles in World War II, from 1941 right until the war's end in 1945 . He lost a leg trying to help a wounded soldier during the Battle of the Bulge . Guarnere's exploits featured prominently in Band of Brothers, the award-winning 2001 miniseries by HBO . He died at Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia on Saturday from a ruptured aneurysm . | 90e7d8a7e4f3e3c14bcdae4eb214c2466ad92bcd |
Mexico City (CNN) -- Mexican authorities said Sunday they found the wreckage of a small plane that they believe was carrying Mexican-American singer Jenni Rivera. Six others, including two pilots, were also thought to be on board the plane, which took off from Monterrey, Mexico, earlier in the day and soon lost contact with air traffic controllers. "Everything points to that this is the plane," Communication and Transportation Minister Gerardo Ruiz Esparza told CNN affiliate Foro TV, about a wreckage site in the northern state of Nuevo Leon. His ministry issued a statement saying authorities were working to access the site by land in order to confirm exactly what's there. Alejandro Argudin, director general of Civil Aviation, said he believes no one on board survived the crash. "The aircraft was destroyed, totally fragmented," he told CNN affiliate Televisa. Born in Long Beach, California, to Mexican immigrant parents, Rivera, 43, released her debut album in 1999, according to her website. She sings traditional Mexican ballads, and was nominated for a Latin Grammy Award in 2002 in the category of "Best Banda Album." In October, People en Espanol named Rivera to its list of the 25 most powerful women. Famous for her music, she is also known for her tumultuous personal life. The singer was a single mom at the age of 15 and is the mother of five, her website said. Rivera's "I Love Jenni" reality show began airing on Telemundo's mun2 network last year. She is a judge on the popular TV show, "The Voice, Mexico," which was scheduled to air Sunday night. Noting its concern for Rivera, Televisa said it would air a special report on the singer instead. A fellow judge on the show took to Twitter following news of Rivera's disappearance. "My heart is devastated," wrote Beto Cuevas. "All my prayers are with you, Jenni, and your family." The private LearJet took off from Monterrey at 3:15 a.m. and lost contact with air traffic controllers about 60 miles away, according to a statement from the transportation ministry. The singer had a concert in the northern Mexican city Saturday night. Two helicopters assisted in the search for the plane, which had as its destination the airport in Toluca, near Mexico City. The cause of the suspected crash was not immediately clear, and the ministry has opened an investigation. Read more on CNN Mexico . CNNMexico.com contributed to this report. | Officials say they found the wreckage of a plane believed to have been carrying Rivera . "Everything points to that this is the plane," says the transportation minister . Besides Rivera, two pilots and four other passengers were on board . The plane lost contact with air traffic controllers outside Monterrey, Mexico . | b2661807e28a8175cbfca9fa4f1b85ecd222f8cf |
(CNN) -- Hamdeen Sabahy, a leftist dark-horse candidate for Egypt's presidency, is a passionate proponent for the teeming nation's poor and an ideological devotee of the late firebrand nationalist leader Gamal Abdel Nasser. "I am the president of the poor," Sabahy told Reuters. "I want to bring justice to those who were wrong for so long." "My campaign is for all Egyptians and especially a campaign for the poor and the alleviation of the struggle between classes,' he said, according to the MidEast News Source. "As a new president for a new Egypt, my first decision will be a quick rise in salaries for most of the working citizens, either in the public or private sectors, and also aid for poor people the very first moment I am in the (presidential) palace." Egyptians head to the polls beginning Wednesday for historic elections -- the first democratic vote since President Hosni Mubarak was forced from power early last year. The charismatic candidate has unique popularity. He's neither an Islamist nor a status-quo candidate. And, he's the most viable candidate for idealists, liberals and revolutionaries who turned out in Tahrir Square to protest the rule and help bring about the end of Mubarak's rule. Sabahy identifies greatly with the revered Nasser, an Arab world hero whose nationalist and populist rhetoric reverberated on the impoverished streets of Cairo and other towns in the 1950s and 1960s. Nasser led the 1952 overthrow of the Egyptian monarchy, touted and implemented socialist reforms, supported pan-Arab nationalism, and led a losing fight against Israel in the Six Day War. Sabahy was born in the small town of Baltim and lived in a working-class environment there. He first got involved in politics during his student days at Cairo University, where he expressed full-throated displeasure with Anwar Sadat, Nasser's successor. He also opposed Mubarak, who became president after Sadat was assassinated. Over the years, he has been imprisoned for his activities. A longtime veteran Nasserist politician and a former member of the Egyptian parliament's lower house, Sabahy is now leader and founder of the Dignity Party. His stirring message of economic justice, accompanied on the campaign trail by Nasserite nationalist tunes, has been well-received by citizens across society -- organized labor, youth and rights groups, academics and public figures. One prominent supporter is noted writer Alaa El-Aswany. Another is the mother of Khalid Said -- the man beaten to death by police in Alexandria two years ago. That fatality has since become a lightning rod for human rights activists. His campaign style is described in a McClatchy newspaper report as "a mesmerizing force, pressing hands with Egyptians who are so accustomed to neglect from the political elites that they follow him in crowds, through trash-strewn alleyways, slack-jawed as he asks about the price of tomatoes." "He is our protector," said Mohamed Mowafi, a Baltim electric company worker. "We trust Sabahy... he's always among us and serving us. Even when he was a member of parliament, he remained here with us." Sabahy has been critical of Egypt's relationship with Israel, even though he said he's not going to take on the Camp David peace treaty between the countries. McClatchy quoted Sabahy as saying he would stop "pampering Israel" and that he's supportive of funding Palestinian "resistance" groups . "Everything besides the peace treaty is subject to change. Israel will not enjoy the exceptional privileges it was granted before," Sabahy told McClatchy. "I am not Hosni Mubarak, who paid the price of pleasing Washington through Tel Aviv." The Middle East Media Research Institute -- which monitors, translates, and studies Arab, Iranian and Turkish media, schoolbooks, and religious sermons -- translated a 2005 TV interview with him espousing violence against the United States in Iraq. "When a weapon is pointed at the Americans, it is good," he said. "Any kidnapping or slaughtering of an American in Iraq is good." He called al Qaeda in Iraq, the militant group that conducted attacks against U.S. troops and Iraqi forces, a "resistance" group and a "positive phenomenon." Speaking in the interview on Dream 2 TV, Sabahy said, "one must salute this organization (al Qaeda) when it kills any American soldier -- soldier, not a civilian." In the present day, he has opposed an amnesty deal for military rulers if they face charges after they leave power. "I have no option but putting anyone who participated in the killings and attacks on protesters to fair trial, even if those are members of the ruling military council," Sabahy told McClatchy. "That's what I call the 'fair exit' for the military rulers, not the 'safe exit' as some other candidates may have proposed." Sabahy's backers say their man has touched a chord with the masses and hope he gains momentum at the polls. Aswat Masriya, a news outlet, quotes Amr Helmy, former minister of health, as saying "Sabahy has been a true revolutionary since his college years, he also has a detailed program that has room for all types of Egyptians." Abdel Haleem Kandil, a prominent columnist, said he decided to cast a ballot for Sabahy after hearing him talk "about peasants and workers with details that shows he has a direct relation with them, something that no other candidate has." CNN's Ben Wedeman contributed to this report . | Sabahy is a longtime champion of Gamal Abdel Nasser . The candidate is said to have a "mesmerizing" persona . Sabahy said he'd stop "pampering Israel" | bf567833674c3c8b208ce04ad3a087a6096efcee |
Valentine's Day is almost upon us and, while hearts and flowers help, nothing says romance quite like a glass or two of champagne. And while we all like a sip of Taittinger, Mumm or Moët, their hefty price tags put them out of reach for the more cash-strapped. But having a less-than-royal bank balance doesn't mean you can't enjoy a glass or two of champagne, thanks to the wealth of cut-price options being offered by supermarkets. Cheers! Stick to supermarket champagnes this Valentine's Day to make big savings . Top on the affordable list is Asda's Louvel Fontaine Champagne that comes in at a very reasonable £10 per bottle. Well balanced and fruity, Louvel Fontaine is a blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier grapes and offers lingering flavours of fresh citrus and hints of vanilla. Slightly more expensive is Lidl's Valentine's Day offering, the Comte De Brismand (£11.99, 75cl), a dry, well-balanced and classy tipple. According to wine experts, the blend looks set to be as popular as their £17.99 Comte de Senneval Grand Cru champagne which beat Harrods version in the One Show's blind taste test last year. Aldi's excellent Champagne Veuve Monsigny (£11.99) is golden-hued with small bubbles that go up in a perfect upward spiral, and a nice crisp flavour. Daily Mail expert wine Olly Smith said: 'With its upbeat intensity and truffly scent, this champagne is so keenly priced it'll sell out fast. Seize it.' For those who prefer their bubbles a little sweeter, the supermarket also offers Pink Champagne Brut NV at £15.99 for 75cl. Bargain bubbles: Aldi's Champagne Veuve Monsigny (left) and Tesco's Louis Delaunay Champagne both cost less than £13 each . Sainsbury's Blanc de Blanc is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes and is perfect to serve with sweet dessert nibbles Morrison's Signature Brut Champagne has lemon and floral aromas and creamy, toasty flavours . Tesco's Louis Delaunay Champagne, which comes from the town of Dizy in Champagne, has gorgeous floral aromas and elegant citrus fruit flavours. The £25.99 bottle is currently being sold at half price for £12.99, with the offer running until the 17th February. Marks & Spencer's Abel Charlot NV is also being sold at half price and costs £16 - down from the usual price of £32. The supermarket is also running a buy six, save 25 per cent special offer, resulting in a £24 saving for those who want to bulk buy. With fine bubbles, creamy lemon shortbread aromas and smooth, lush caramelised hazelnut flavours, this a powerful dry champagne. Morrisons Signature Brut Champagne, NV ( £18.99, 75cl) is slightly more expensive but has lovely lemon and floral aromas and classic creamy, toasty flavours, which make it worth the price tag. Sainsbury's Blanc de Blanc Champagne (£20.00) is slightly more expensive but it did top the charts as the the highest scoring own label champagne in the Best Buy category in a recent Which? December 14' survey. An elegant champagne, made from 100 per cent Chardonnay grapes, has delicate floral aromas and citrus notes – perfect to serve with sweet dessert nibbles. Anne Jones, Wine, Beer and Spirits category manager at Waitrose, reveals which Valentine's Day champagnes are worth splashing out on. Which champagne would you recommend for Valentine's Day? 'Definitely the Pol Roger Brut NV, £39.99, it has a rich flavourful style. For those on a tighter budget the Waitrose Brut NV, £19.99, which is exceptional value and tastes great. Alternatively a style called Crémant is made in a similar way but with a gentler fizz - try the Cave de Lugny Crémant de Bourgogne, £13.99. Are there any champagne alternatives you would recommend? 'For Prosecco-lovers, the Waitrose NV Italian Prosecco, £8.99, is a classic, crisp fizz. Cava is also hugely under-rated and improving in quality all the time, and is made by using the same method as champagne. 'You can get great examples for under £10 such as the Waitrose Brut NV Spanish Cava, £6.99. In the spirit of Valentine's Day, which pink fizz would you select? 'Pink fizz is an obvious choice for Valentine's Day, and it can also be a great way to be creative as well as save some money. If you want champagne, the Alexandre Bonnet Brut Rose (£26.99) is superb. What would you recommend to those who are looking for a low-alcohol option? 'Prosecco usually has slightly lower alcohol than champagne or Cava, but if you really want to pace yourself, the soft, fruity, slightly sweet style of Asti is only seven per cent. 'I would recommend the San Leo Asti, £9.99 – it's also delicious with puddings!' | Lidl and Aldi both have bottles of champagne that come under £12 . Sainsbury's £20 Blanc de Blanc champagne (£20.00) is the priciest . Tesco's Louis Delaunay champagne is on half price until 17 February . | 1b15fbb4064c92953dab0b2248a45bc8fffae3db |
A footballer was left with a horrific injury after his chin was ripped apart by a 'bladed' stud on an opponent's boot. Gary Fawcett, 30, was attempting to stand up after a tackle when another player 'ran over' his face. He suffered a 6cm-long gash which cut down to his jaw bone and needed 13 internal and 17 external stitches. WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT . Gary Fawcett was left needing 13 internal and 17 external stitches after his face was ripped open by a bladed football boot during a match . The 30-year-old was playing for Garstang FC, against Eagley in Bolton, Greater Manchester, in the amateur West Lancashire Football League when the incident happened . Mr Fawcett, an agricultural fitter, said: 'The blade caught me on the chin and just sliced down. 'It wasn't too painful at the time. When you're playing football, your blood is pumping and the adrenaline is going. 'I ran into the changing room straight away though - I knew something was up. My friend drove me back to Preston so I could be closer to home. 'In the car it really started hurting. Blood was pouring out. We had a gauze from the medical kit which I was using to hold it together.' The incident happened last Saturday as Mr Fawcett captained his team, Garstang FC, against Eagley in Bolton, Greater Manchester, in the amateur West Lancashire Football League. Mr Fawcett, of Preston, Lancashire, had scored a goal and assisted another when he was struck down 40 minutes into the match. The player did not realise the seriousness of the injury at first and held the gash together with an instrument from a first aid kit, but he was later taken to hospital . Mr Fawcett (back row, third from right) says the incident wasn't malicious and he does not blame his opponent . Mr Fawcett (pictured before the injury) now faces an 18-month wait to find out if he will he scarred for life . He says he does not blame the opponent as insists the injury was accidental and not caused maliciously. After being taken off the pitch he was rushed to Royal Preston Hospital, where he needed three injections in both the top and bottom of the cut before the stitches. 'The stitches took a good two hours,' he said. 'I wanted him [the surgeon] to take his time. He's done a really good job but it was taking so long that the anaesthesia was starting to wear off. 'My girlfriend had joined me at the hospital but she couldn't watch the stitches. It was quite horrible.' Mr Fawcett now faces an 18-month wait to find out if he will be permanently scarred. His team went on to draw 3-3. Bladed studs were the brainchild of ex-Liverpool player Craig Johnston, who called then 'Traxion' soles and said they allowed players to run faster. He convinced sports firm Adidas to take up the idea, which they incorporated into their iconic 'Predator' boots, which sold by the thousands after their launch in 1994. The boots were promoted by footballers David Beckham and Zinedine Zidane and rugby player Jonny Wilkinson, making them hugely popular amongst youngsters. Alex Ferguson (left) called for the boots to be banned before they caused two injuries to Wayne Rooney (right), one of which required him to wear a headband to protect a gash in his forehead . Rooney was left with a huge gash in his leg after Fulham's Hugo Rodallega tackled him in 2013 . But Johnston later warned football boot firms that the blades were becoming 'lethal weapons' due to their development using different materials. His fears have since been proved right with a series of injuries. In 2001, Sunderland youth team goalkeeper Craig Turns needed 33 stitches after a bladed boot sliced open his face and, the following year, Burnley striker Andy Payton was forced to retired after needing 38 stitches in his leg. After then-Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane broke his foot in 2005, the team's then-manager Alex Ferguson called for blades to be banned. The most famous injury said to have been caused by the studs came in 2012, when Wayne Rooney needed 10 stitches after being caught by Fulham's Hugo Rodallega. The same player then needed stitches in his head last year after receiving a cut to the forehead in training. Bladed boots were championed by, among others, David Beckham but following a spate of injuries have since faced claims they are dangerous . | WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT . Player in amateur league left with part of chin hanging off after incident . He collided with opponent as he attempted to stand up after a tackle . The 30-year-old didn't realise the seriousness of the injury at first . But he later needed 30 stitches to the 6cm-long gash on his face . Follows series of controversies surrounding the use of bladed studs . | c15512098e4b6a97637e78498e5d9c325214f4a5 |
CABO SAN LUCAS, Mexico (CNN) -- Hurricane Jimena weakened to a Category 3 storm Tuesday afternoon, but remained dangerous as it bore down on the Mexican peninsula of Baja California, with the resort town of Cabo San Lucas in its path. Jimena bears down Tuesday evening on Baja California, with the resort town of Cabo San Lucas in its path. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Erika formed in the Atlantic on Tuesday, east of the northern Leeward Islands, the National Hurricane Center said. Jimena's maximum wind speed dropped from 125 mph to 120 mph (195 kph), according to the U.S. National Weather Service's 5 p.m. PT (8 p.m. ET) update. "A gradual weakening is forecast during the next 24 to 48 hours," the weather service said. "However, Jimena could be near major hurricane strength when it makes landfall." The storm's center is forecast to come ashore on Thursday morning, but the weather service warned that "because it will be moving parallel to the coastline, any slight change in direction could have a huge impact in the location and timing of landfall." Mexico's government extended a hurricane warning for most of the southern half of the Baja peninsula -- from Punta Abreojos on the peninsula's west coast to Mulege on its east coast, according to the National Weather Service. See the storm's projected path » . A hurricane warning means hurricane conditions are expected within the warning area in the next 24 hours and people should quickly prepare "to protect life and property." "A dangerous storm surge along with battering waves will produce significant coastal flooding along the Baja California Peninsula," NWS said. On its current track, Jimena's center will approach the peninsula's southern portion later on Tuesday and central Baja California peninsula by Thursday, the weather service said. In addition to damaging winds, the storm could bring as much as 15 inches of rain, forecasters said. Jimena -- the 10th named storm of the Pacific season -- was centered about 85 miles (135 km) west-southwest of Cabo San Lucas, according to the weather service. It was traveling north-northwest near 12 mph (19 kph). On Tuesday, the skies in Cabo San Lucas were overcast and gusts of wind began to pick up. There were good waves for surfing, but popular beaches were devoid of tourists. Red flags warned people to stay out of the water, in case they needed any reminding. The day before, airlines offered extra flights to leave the area. Lionel Alvarez, who runs a resort hotel called "Las Ventanas al Pariaso" in the town of San Jose del Cabo, found a silver lining to the coming storm. "The wind is refreshing a little bit because of the high temperatures we've gone through in the past few days," he said. But Alvarez, like other locals, had work to do in preparation of Jimena. "We protect the property by dismantling all that could be dangerous, fly or can be broken," he said. Authorities had asked about 10,000 people to evacuate the area, but many had decided to wait out the storm. Cuauhtemoc Morgan, a local resident of Los Cabos who sent videos to to CNN's iReport, said residents had protected every home in his neighborhood, fortifying windows with masking tape. Lines at supermarkets were long with worried residents preparing for the storms, Morgan said. See iReport videos . Authorities were setting up shelters in schools and trying to devise a plan to protect the homeless, he added. The Pacific isn't the only place seeing action. As of 8 p.m. ET Tuesday, tropical storm watches were issued for the Caribbean islands of St. Maarten, Antigua, Barbuda, St. Kitts, Nevis, Anguilla, St. Martin and St. Barthelemy by the governments of France, the Netherlands Antilles, and Antigua and Barbuda, according to the hurricane center. A tropical storm watch means that tropical storm conditions, including winds of at least 39 mph, are possible within 36 hours. See Erika's projected path » . Interests in the northern Leeward Islands, the U.S. and British Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico should monitor Erika's progress, forecasters advised. Erika's center was about 390 miles (625 km) east of the northern Leeward Islands, the hurricane center said. Its maximum sustained winds were near 50 mph (80 kph), with higher gusts. While Erika meandered Tuesday afternoon, it was expected to start moving west-northwest at about 9 mph during the night. "Some slow strengthening is forecast during the next couple of days," forecasters said. Tropical-storm force winds extended outward up to 105 miles (170 km) from Erika's center. The storm was moving west-northwest at near 9 mph (15 kph), and was expected to continue doing so for the next couple of days, the hurricane center said. Tracking maps put the storm east of the Bahamas by Sunday. On the forecast track, Erika should remain northeast of the Leeward Islands, forecasters said. CNN's Betty Nguyen and CNN Radio's Matt Cherry and Ninette Sosa contributed to this report. | Hurricane Jimena downgraded to Category 3, hurricane center says . Jimena's maximum winds fall to 120 mph, but storm could strengthen . Hurricane warning covers most of the southern half of the Baja Peninsula . Tropical Storm Erika forms in eastern Atlantic, National Hurricane Center says . | 1d56c6dfcab8bbe58c2a8577fc4c82d89a7ab8e2 |
By . James Chapman . and Becky Barrow . Updated: . 12:33 EST, 29 November 2011 . Ed Miliband today repeated his refusal . to condemn strike action, despite describing their action as causing . 'terrible' disruption. The Labour leader's refusal to denounce the strikes follows last week's revelations that almost 90 per cent of his party's funding now comes from unions. But in the strongest ministerial attack on the unions for a generation, Education Secretary Michael Gove blamed the strike on ‘militants’ who were ‘itching for a fight’ – and warned more than nine in ten schools will be closed as a result of tomorrow’s walkout of up to two million workers. Ed Miliband, the Labour leader, left, refused to condemn public sector workers set to stage walk outs over cuts to pensions and services. Tory Education Secretary Michael Gove, however, blamed the strike on 'militants' Hardline trade union leaders were . yesterday accused of a deliberate attempt to sabotage the economic . recovery as they threatened a programme of industrial action to continue . throughout next year. ‘They want scenes of industrial strife on our TV screens, they want to make economic recovery harder, they want to provide a platform for confrontation just when we all need to pull together,’ Mr Gove said. Officials confirmed that troops and uniformed police officers will be drafted in to help maintain the security of Britain’s borders when immigration staff join the walkout over public sector pension reforms. Miliband said today he 'hated' the . effects of the strike, including closed schools and cancelled . operations, but would not condemn the action. Referring . to a headteacher he had seen on ITV Daybreak, Mr Miliband said: 'He and . many of his colleagues feel that they have been put in an impossible . position by the Government because the Government has stopped . negotiating over these public sector pensions. 'They . are imposing - and I don't think most people recognise this yet - a 3 . per cent tax rise on some of the lowest paid workers in the country, not . actually to help them with their pension but to help pay off the . deficit. 'Of course we have to pay off the deficit but to target public sector workers in the way that they have been doing is not fair. 'So the disruption is terrible but I am not going to condemn those who have taken this decision.' Airlines have cancelled some flights in and out of Heathrow tomorrow in anticipation of queues of up to 12 hours at passport controls. Dave Prentis, leader of public sector trade union Unison, said there was ‘absolutely no chance’ of reaching a deal in the next few days, claiming: ‘It could be the biggest action since the 1926 General Strike.’ Everybody out: Workers march through central Bristol this summer. Public sector workers have been warned that a pensions offer will be withdrawn if there is no agreement by the end of the year . As David Cameron warned union leaders . their protest was futile, Mr Gove said he did not know of any pension . scheme in the private sector that would match the deal being offered to . public sector workers. He . said it was ‘unfair and unrealistic’ to expect taxpayers to keep on . footing the bill for pension schemes of which private sector workers can . only dream, warning: ‘If we don’t reach agreement, then change will . have to be imposed.’ ‘Among those union leaders are people . who fight hard for their members and whom I respect. But there are also . hardliners – militants itching for a fight,’ Mr Gove said. ‘They want families to be . inconvenienced. They want mothers to give up a day’s work, or pay for . expensive childcare, because schools will be closed. 'They want teachers . and other public sector workers to lose a day’s pay in the run-up to . Christmas.’ Mr Gove singled out Mark Serwotka, . head of the biggest civil service union PCS, and Unite’s Len McCluskey . and Andrew Murray as union leaders for whom ‘militant is a badge that . fits’. He also signalled the Government is . considering changes to strike laws to give headteachers more notice of . whether they would be able to keep their schools open. At present, individuals are not . obliged to inform their school that they intend to join the walkout . until the day of the industrial action. Mr Prentis said tomorrow’s action . would be the start of a devastating series of walkouts, with ‘further . action in the new year’ if the Government does not back down. In all, 29 unions are taking part in the one-day walkout, having balloted about 2.6million members. But any further action could escalate . if the British Medical Association and the Royal College of Nursing . decide to take part. Their members are not taking action tomorrow, but . both unions have suggested strike ballots remain an option. A PCS spokesman dismissed government claims made on Monday that leader Mr Serwotka had not engaged properly in negotiations. Public . sector pensions amount to a risky ‘Madoff-style pyramid’ because they . are unfunded to the tune of billions of pounds, a think-tank warned last . night. U.S. fraudster . Bernie Madoff was jailed for a scheme which paid investors out of money . given by future investors, rather than money that had already been . earned through profit. In . an article in the journal of the Association of Consulting Actuaries, . the Centre for Policy Studies (CPS) described the public sector pensions . framework as a pyramid scheme similar to that run by Madoff because not . enough money is coming in to cover the sums due to go out. A . CPS study forecasts the gap will be £8billion by 2014-15 and will rise. Author Michael Johnson said: ‘With what is on the table, the 20 per . cent of the workforce in the public sector will continue to enjoy . certainty of income in retirement – that does not exist for the other 80 . per cent.’ Prime Minister David Cameron's . official spokesman told reporters at a regular daily press briefing: 'Our position throughout has been . that to go ahead with a strike when talks are ongoing - and they are . ongoing - is irresponsible. 'Our view is that the offer we have . put on the table is a good one and a fair one, both for public sector . workers and for taxpayers.' Widespread disruption is expected. The spokesman confirmed that a message . has been sent out to Whitehall civil servants - including staff at 10 . Downing Street - asking them whether they will be able to help provide . cover for striking border officials at airports and ports, but declined . to go into details about what the response was. Cabinet Office minister Francis Maude said it was increasingly . clear that militant union leaders had ‘set off down this path months . ago’ and were determined to press ahead regardless of what the . Government offered or the miserable turnouts in strike ballots. He . said: ‘This is a very irresponsible set of strikes. Britain, at a very . fragile time in its economy, is going to be dealt a serious blow if . these strikes go ahead in the way that has been described. ‘What . we’ve said from the absolute outset when we put this new offer on the . table, which is a generous offer, is that most people in the workforce . in the private sector would give their eye teeth to have a pension . scheme as good as what these will continue to be. ‘We . have said there needs to be agreement on the main elements by the end . of this year, and if there isn’t we absolutely reserve the right to take . those elements off the table.’ Meanwhile, Chancellor George Osborne accused Labour of inflaming the situation by peddling ‘misinformation’. ‘Ed . Balls was saying that people earning under £15,000 are having to pay . more. We’ve explicitly excluded people on very low salaries from paying . more contributions for their pensions,’ he said. ‘What . I am trying to do is give them a good, decent pension for many, many . years to come – much better than you could get if you were in the . private sector.’ | Education Secretary says hardliners are 'itching for a fight' Labour leader refuses to condemn strike action despite saying walkouts will cause 'terrible' disruption' At least 90% of schools due to close and airport chaos expected . Army on standby to deal with impact of 2m workers striking on Wednesday . | 97ecae275e244f095a64203ae9da960e03ac0794 |
By . Eliza Scarborough . PUBLISHED: . 16:32 EST, 28 July 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 16:32 EST, 28 July 2013 . Bedroom chic: Victoria Beckham showcased the look at the recent Wimbledon final . Flashing a bra strap a bit risque for you? Then you might want to avert your gaze now - if the catwalks are anything to go by. Judging by the latest lines from top designers, next season the streets are going to be full of women wandering around in skimpy nighties, barely-there camisoles and all manner of lingerie-inspired looks. Louis Vuitton's new collection is influenced by 'hotel boudoirs', while Dolce & Gabbana's campaign features barely-clad models. Jean Paul Gaultier has sent girls down the runway in slips and corsets and Ellie Saab has dreamy white nightie-like dresses. Always at the forefront of a trend, Victoria Beckham showcased the look at the recent Wimbledon final (right). The fashionista sported one of those bedroom chic Louis Vuitton numbers: a black, lacy slip dress that looked as if it were suitable for only the most intimate of situations. It might be Mrs B's style - but can the rest of us really wear underwear masquerading as outerwear? Or will we always run the risk of looking as if we're emulating mid-Nineties Madonna - or have forgotten the rest of our outfit? While the High Street versions of the catwalk looks won't hit stores until autumn, we wondered if you could get away with wearing genuine underwear as outerwear. The looks below are almost exclusively sourced from the lingerie department. Can they really do double-duty as everyday outfits? Cami, £56, eberjey.com, Slip, £24, houseoffraser.co.uk, Bag, £29.99, hm.com, Sandals, £39.99, zara.com . Body, £62.50, wolfordshop.co.uk, Skirt, £70, kaliko.co.uk, Necklace, £19.99, zara.com, Heels, £165, russell andbromley.co.uk . EVENING ENSEMBLE . This cami and skirt copies Beckham's . Louis Vuitton dress for a fraction of the price. It looks great, and . looks nothing like underwear if worn with minimal heels and a . businesslike clutch. Keep make-up and hair natural, and try a classic . cream jacket on top. DISHY AT DINNER . This pink body could be worn with jeans . in the day or a skirt for a smart dinner. Its moulded cups and snap back . mean it is supportive but still creates curves. Pair with a chunky . necklace to highlight your decolletage. Cami, £62, elle macphersonintimates.com, Jeans, £79, reiss.com, Shoes, £180, LK Bennett: 08445815881 . Shirt, £110, reiss.com, Skirt, £16, debenhams.com, Clutch, £59.99, zara.com, Shoes, £95, inewest.co.uk . CASUAL CHICS . You'd never guess this blue cami was . underwear. The sweet neckline and stylish fabric mean it will look great . with jeans for a casual, comfortable weekend look. Pointy heels will . stop it from being too saccharine. OK FOR THE OFFICE? Nude shades and pencil shapes are huge . for spring. With a white shirt tucked in and nude heels, this slip skirt . is surprisingly smart, but it's unforgiving, so best for slim, tall . women. Wear nude heels that don't clash and go for minimal underwear - . or risk VPL. Bodycon slip, £48, maidenform.co.uk, Shoes, £79, dune.co.uk . Chemise, £55, johnlewis.com, Sandals, £39.99, zara.com . DATE NIGHT . He won't be able to take his eyes off . you in this racy slip - Dolce & Gabbana do something very similar. It conceals your stomach and enhances your bust thanks to its moulded . cups. Keep styling simple so it doesn't look over the top - if in doubt, . pop on a cardi and reveal all when you get home. JUST FOR THE BEDROOM! This looks lovely, but it's too shiny . and short to be anything but a nightie, and the lacy details and bows . are so obtrusive that you couldn't wear it outside. It is, however, very . good quality, a great colour and light and cool, so wear it and show it . off - in your own boudoir with someone you want to impress. | Victoria Beckham recently caused a stir when she wore a tiny lace dress . But Mrs B knows what she's about - the catwalks are dominated by lingerie . | a1c04fd55be4e8a5011a9f608a9c1c63ad234908 |
By . Emily Anne Epstein . PUBLISHED: . 08:38 EST, 2 August 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 16:39 EST, 2 August 2012 . The beloved mascot of Louisiana Tech University has been found dead of apparent heatstroke after a caretaker left the animal out in sweltering temperatures Sunday evening. At first, the caretaker covered up the incident and said that Tech XX had run away, so the university mounted a desperate search for the English bulldog, who at just four years old, had endeared himself to legions of fans. They even offered thousands of dollars in reward money for his safe return. But early Wednesday, the director of the clinic that cared for him notified the world that Tech XX wasn't missing, he had passed away and the employee that covered it up had been fired. Scroll down for video . Gone: The beloved mascot of Louisiana Tech University has been found dead of apparent heatstroke after a caretaker coldly left the animal out in sweltering temperatures Sunday evening . Missing: At first, the caretaker covered up the incident and said that Tech XX had run away, so the university mounted a desperate search for Tech XX, who at just four years old, had endeared himself to legions of fans . 'Tech XX was a member of our immediate family and a daily part of our lives for the past four years,' Patrick Sexton, said in a statement. As a Louisiana Tech University alumni and veterinarian, he cared for Tech XX at his clinic located four miles from campus. 'We are devastated over the circumstances of his passing, and there will be a large void in our hearts for some time to come,' he said. He blamed the bulldog's death on the negligence of an employee who left the dog outside too long on Sunday evening. Pooch: But early Wednesday, the director of the clinic that cared for him notified the world that Tech XX wasn't missing, he had passed and the employee that covered it up had been fired . Left Behind: When the dog was reported missing, dozens of Louisiana Tech University students, alumni and administrators combed over the area to look for him . Goodbye: The animal clinic is planning a memorial service for next week . 'That employee unfortunately chose to handle it the wrong way and attempted to cover it up,' he said. 'The employee is no longer employed by Sexton Animal Health Center.' When . the dog was reported missing, dozens of Louisiana Tech University . students, alumni and administrators combed over the area to look for . him. At the time, they believed he had disappeared after a bathroom break and offered a $1,000 reward. After days of searching, they upped the reward to $2,000. The animal clinic is planning a memorial service for next week. 'Tech XX was a cherished member of the Louisiana Tech family and, together, we will all grieve his passing,' the university said in a statement. Innocent: Some alumni are calling for animal cruelty charges to be brought against the employee . Animal Clinic: Patrick Sexton, the veterinarian who cared for him, said Tech XX was like a member of his family . But grief is not good enough for some animal activists that say the English bulldog should not have died in vain. 'It is preventable. So, let's prevent it from ever happening again,' animal activist Pam Miller said to KNOE. She demanded a complete investigation of the animal's death, adding that bulldogs will drool and pant when they overheat. Other alumni are calling for animal cruelty charges to be brought against the employee. His predecessor, Tech XIX, was retired in 2007 because of health concerns after suffering heatstroke at a football season opener. | Bulldog lived with veterinarian near campus at animal clinic . Worker left dog outside for hours and later found him dead, lying to community that the dog had run off . School launched desperate search for Tech XX, offering $2,000 . Eventually worker came clean and was fired for negligence . | 46b8eb065c045d931d0b30c69f2f895af1e3c08a |
Relief: Maryam Hassan leaves Southwark Crown Court today after being found not . guilty of assaulting actress Tara Reid and racially aggravated . harassment . A former model accused of glassing American Pie actress Tara Reid in the face wept hysterically as she was cleared today. Maryam Hassan, 27, allegedly assaulted the Hollywood star after spotting her chatting to former Holland international Edgar Davids at Beat members-only club. The West End haunt is popular with footballers and celebrities including teen heart-throb Justin Bieber. The American pin-up was rushed to hospital after suffering a corneal abrasion which required a consultation with a plastic surgeon following the 'ugly' incident, Southwark Crown Court heard. Ms Reid also received a cut to her forehead and an injury to the bridge of her nose. But Hassan - a friend of West Ham player Carlton Cole - was unanimously cleared of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. She was also acquitted of racially abusing a bouncer at the club. The jury of six women and six men reached its verdicts after four hours and four minutes of deliberation. Casually . dressed in a black blouse, tight black jeans and ballet pumps with a . cat motif, with her dark blonde hair scraped into a top knot, Hassan . sobbed hysterically as the verdicts were announced. She shouted 'thank you' at the jury before hugging a friend who had been seated in the public gallery. Hassan refused to comment outside court. Ms . Reid had enjoyed a birthday meal of lobster and champagne at swanky . restaurant and private members club, Annabel's, in Mayfair, prior to . arriving at Beat on November 8 last year. 'Attack': Maryam Hassan, pictured yesterday, left, was accused of glassing American Pie actress Tara Reid, right, at a London private members' club after throwing a drink over her . Innocent: Maryam Hassan, centre, was said to be drunk during the alleged incident. She is pictured today with defence barrister Mr Mozammel Hossain, right, leaving court . In . a statement read to the court, the Scrubs actress told how she 'I . noticed a female who kept approaching the table a few times. Not guilty: Maryam Hassan, pictured outside Southwark Crown Court, was also accused of racially abusing a bouncer but was cleared . 'I . didn't know who she was but I guess she was not getting any attention. She came up to me and threw the contents of her drink over my chest. 'I reacted immediately and threw my drink over her. The club's body guard took her away. 'The same female came back 20 minutes later and she was then taken away. 'She said "I'm not getting kicked out, you whore, you slut".' The actress told how she 'could not open my eyes' after the incident. Ms Reid claimed that Hassan 'went crazy, she went psycho like Naomi Campbell.' 'It was so quick, she stood close to me within arms' length, and smashed the glass in my face.' Giving . evidence Hassan, who graduated with a degree in political sciences from . the University of Sunderland, said the glass flew out of her hand as . she was manhandled by door staff. Hassan . admitted calling bouncer Zimzan Lelo a 'w******' but denied using . racist language, because she is of mixed race heritage and her husband . is black. In a character witness statement, England striker Carlton Cole said he was 'honoured to call her a friend'. Hassan . had struck up a friendship with the star 12 years ago after she worked . on charity projects for the Carlton Cole Foundation, which helps . underprivileged children in war-torn Sierra Leone. The footballer said Hassan 'had shown herself to be of consistent character with a good moral standing'. Hassan, . of Jarrow, Tyne and Wear, was acquitted of assault occasioning actual bodily harm . and racially aggravated intentional harassment, alarm or distress. Teen comedy: Tara Reid starred as Vicky in last year's American Pie: Reunion . TV star: Tara Reid, left, with fellow cast members of U.S. hit comedy series Scrubs . Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article. | Maryam Hassan, 27, accused of drunkenly assaulting star after abusing her and throwing drink after seeking attention from actress and her friends . Cleared of of charge and second claim that she racially abused bouncer . | 313adf847cb5dc2a5f65000a50021461c7bb772c |
MEXICO CITY, Mexico (CNN) -- A mayor in Mexican President Felipe Calderon's home state was ambushed and killed by a group of heavily armed men as he returned to his house, news reports said. It was the second assassination attempt in eight days on Vista Hermosa Mayor Octavio Manuel Carrillo Castellanos, the Cambio de Michoacan newspaper said on its Web site Wednesday. Carillo was pulling up to his home around 6 p.m. Tuesday when at least two men got out of a vehicle and opened fire. There were conflicting reports over whether a second vehicle with armed men may have been involved. Family and others came to Carillo's aid while a police officer stationed at his house called for help, Cambio de Michoacan said. Carillo was taken to a nearby hospital, where he died around 7:20 p.m.. Officials said they did not have a motive or know if the mayor had received any threats. But El Excelsior newspaper reported that investigators are looking into Carillo's recent firing of a Vista Hermosa police commander and an officer. Carillo, who took office on January 1, 2008, was the second mayor in the Pacific coast state of Michoacan killed in the last eight months. Marcelo Ibarra Villa, the mayor of Villa Madero, was ambushed in June while riding in his truck with his wife, El Excelsior said. The gunmen escaped in both instances. Tuesday's killing came on Mexican Flag Day, just hours after Calderon vowed that his government would continue to battle the drug cartels that have ravaged the country. The mayor's death also came four days after the sudden resignation of the police chief in Ciudad Juarez, across the border from El Paso, Texas. Police Chief Roberto Orduna had received death threats from local drug cartels and resigned after the recent deaths of eight police officers under his command. Violent deaths reached record levels in Mexico last year as drug cartels battle each other and the Mexican government. More than 5,400 killings were reported in 2008, more than double the tally in 2007. Authorities and analysts said a new record could be set this year. Narcotraffickers have adopted a campaign of intimidation against authorities, and the deaths of police, mayors and other officials have become common. Last year, more than 100 police were killed in Ciudad Juarez in attacks blamed on organized crime. "They started killing police officers when they were going home or getting into police cars," Mayor Jose Reyes Ferriz told reporters last week. Just last week, the city's police director of operations was gunned down in his car. Another police officer and a prison guard were found dead Friday morning. On Friday, the U.S. State Department renewed a travel alert for Americans considering a visit to Mexico. "The situation in Ciudad Juarez is of special concern," the alert said. "Mexican authorities report that more than 1,800 people have been killed in the city since January 2008. Additionally, this city of 1.6 million people experienced more than 17,000 car thefts and 1,650 carjackings in 2008." In addition, the University of Arizona warned its students against going to Mexico on spring break this year, and Arizona State University is considering the same advisory. "These are flat-out organized crime groups like we think of any other organized crime groups. They are not a small gang on the corner. These are large organizations," said David Denlinger, chief of the Arizona Department of Public Safety. | Vista Hermosa Mayor Octavio Manuel Carrillo Castellanos killed outside home . Carrillo is second mayor in Pacific coast state of Michoacan killed in eight months . Drug traffickers have adopted campaign of intimidation against authorities . U.S. State Department issues travel alert for Americans considering visit to Mexico . | e78c5d1f62c604c487d672d0aca8c5697a26c9c2 |
By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 13:56 EST, 3 May 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 10:40 EST, 4 May 2012 . The elderly heiress whose money and how it was spent is the main focus of the John Edwards trial had a huge crush on him and would be 'euphoric' whenever the former senator was around, a friend testified. Bryan Huffman, an interior designer who became one of Rachel 'Bunny' Mellon's closest confidants, took to the stand yesterday at the Greensboro Court House in North Carolina. Reiterating what other witnesses have said about the now 101-year-old millionaire, Mr Huffman told the jury: 'She liked how he looked, what he espoused and what good he could do for the country.' She first met Edwards in 2004 and was said to have been in love with him ever since. Better today: Edwards was joined by his eldest daughter Cate as they headed into the trial on Thursday, just one day after she left the court in tears . Benefactor: Paul and Bunny Mellon stand with horse sculpture at Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond, Virginia, circa 1987. Bunny is now blind and a recluse . Heiress: Bunny Mellon, right, is one of the . wealthy donors who allegedly provided Edwards with almost $1million to . cover up his affair . Mr Huffman is one of the people who is believed to have helped hide the huge campaign donations from Bunny that were allegedly used to hide his affair with Rielle Hunter and subsequent love child. Edwards' attorneys have said he didn't know about the money and Edwards has . pleaded not guilty to six counts related to campaign-finance violations. He faces up to 30 years in prison and $1.5million in fines. The 48-year-old recounted what Bunny said after a December 2005 . meeting with Edwards at her 4,000-acre estate: 'There goes the next president of the . United States.' He testified that she was more than happy to pay for personal expenses for Edwards after the controversy about his expensive haircut in 2007. 'The campaign gave [Mellon] a wonderful . focus and something to hold on to,' Mr Huffman said. Every phone call from . Edwards 'always made her extremely happy'. 'She was having fun with this,' he added. But there was one thing clear about Edwards' visits to her sprawling estate - he was not allowed to bring his wife Elizabeth, who Mr Huffman said she hated. 'Unless Mrs Edwards could come then Mr Edwards couldn’t come,' Huffman recalled. The now blind and reclusive Bunny told Newsweek in an interview last year: 'John had a hard time with Elizabeth.' Her lawyer Alex Forger added his client 'was not enamored of his wife and didn’t want his wife to know that he was getting money.' In stride: Yesterday's witness told how Edwards (right) denied having a relationship with 'crazy' Hunter but Hunter told the aide directly that she and the then-Senator 'were very much in love' Another former close aide to John . Edwards also testified yesterday about bungled efforts to keep the . former presidential candidate's affair hidden from staff members, . including an awkward confirmation of his suspicions from the mistress herself. Mr Davis, who traveled with Edwards . in 2006 and 2007 as a body man, is one of several former aides who have . testified about their suspicion or knowledge of the affair during . Edwards' campaign finance corruption trial. Ms . Hunter's contract with the staff wasn't renewed at the end of 2006, but . Mr Davis hadn't seen the last of her. He testified that in February . 2007, he ran into her in an elevator at the candidate's Detroit hotel. ‘We exchanged brief pleasantries. I would have preferred not to have seen her,’ he said. When he saw that she pushed the button . for Edwards' floor – where Davis also had his room – he stopped on . another floor just so he could get into a different elevator car. Shortly after, he was on the phone with his wife to express his shock at . seeing Ms Hunter. Possible defence witness: Rielle Hunter, the . former mistress of John Edwards, enters the federal courthouse in . Raleigh, North Carolina, Thursday, August 6, 2009 with the pair's child . Frances Quinn Hunter . He heard a knock at the door of his room. It was the mistress, who came in to talk. ‘She told me that she and Senator Edwards were very much in love. And that he was concerned that I had seen her,’ Mr Davis said. The next day, Edwards called Davis into his room and denied that he was having an affair with Hunter. ‘He . told me she was crazy and that we should make sure she didn't talk to . him,’ Mr Davis said, adding that he was satisfied with his boss's . explanation. Mr Davis is the latest in a string of . witnesses who have been brought by the prosecution to detail the steps . that the campaign staff took to keep Edwards’ bid for the presidency, . and then the vice presidency, leading up to Barack Obama’s victory in . 2008. In the Greensboro, . North Carolina court room on Thursday, Mr Davis told how staffers like . himself had growing concerns when they noticed how close Ms Hunter and . Edwards became after she was hired as a videographer for the campaign in . 2006. Disgraced: Edwards could face 30 years in prison and a $1.5million fine if found guilty . 'Sexually voracious': Before she was known as . John Edwards' mistress, Rielle Hunter dated an author who based a 'coke . addled' and 'sexually voracious' character on her . For example, while other staff members called him ‘Senator Edwards,’ Rielle Hunter called him ‘Johnny’ or ‘John’. Not long after Mr Davis' elevator run in with Ms Hunter, a change was made in hotel arrangements that struck Mr Davis as odd. 'Can people tell that you're showing?' -Former Edwards aide John Davis said he heard the then-candidate ask Rielle Hunter . Mr . Davis said he'd always stayed in a room close to the candidate, but . that the staff began staying on a different floor than the candidate . during trips. ‘Mr Edwards suggested maybe a little separation would be good,’ he said. His . most explosive revelation was what he heard when he went to Edwards' hotel room to retrieve a cell phone that the candidate had borrowed from . him. When he got to the . room, he could hear what sounded like a speakerphone conversation . through the door, and he was able to discern both Edwards and Ms . Hunter's voices, and he heard Edwards inquire about how far along Ms . Hunter was in her pregnancy. ‘I heard him ask Rielle if she was showing yet,’ Mr Davis said of the September 2007 incident. 'Can people tell that you're showing?' Mr Davis said Edwards asked. Indiscreet: The court has heard specific details about the cover-up, like how Rielle would demand to be flown on private . jets with Edwards and that he was often seen wheeling around her . luggage . Ms Hunter gave birth to Edwards’ daughter . Frances Quinn in February 2008, and given the date of the phone call, . that would have made Ms Hunter about four months pregnant at the time. ‘Rielle is a very unique personality,’ Mr Davis said in court on Thursday. ‘Everyone else on the team had a . political background. Rielle didn't have that sort of resume. She talked . a lot about meditation and yogis’ Though the details of Ms Hunter-spottings add to the intrigue level about the illicit affair, the most emotional day of testimony surely came yesterday, when Edwards’ daughter Cate left the courtroom crying. Former Edwards aide Christina Reynolds was testifying about an argument Elizabeth Edwards had with her husband on the day in October 2007 that a tabloid published a story about his affair. As Ms Reynolds was beginning the account about what happened at the Raleigh airport, Edwards turned to his daughter Cate, who was seated in the front row. 'I don't know what's coming. Do you want to leave?' Edwards was heard asking. She responded inaudibly to him, then walked away wiping tears. Edwards was heard saying, 'Cate, Cate' as she walked out. Cate Edwards later returned to court after a recess. Ms Reynolds testified, she observed a very upset Elizabeth Edwards confront her husband at Raleigh-Durham International Airport on the morning that The National Enquirer published a story about the affair. Carrying on: John Edwards (right) heads into . court Tuesday with his daughter Cate (center) as the damaging testimony . continued about his affair and ensuing cover up with Rielle Hunter . Upset: Cate Edwards, pictured with her father Tuesday, ran out of the court room in tears Wednesday when she heard stories about her parent's fighting . She stormed off and then collapsed in the parking lot, Ms Reynolds said, and the aide and another staff member helped her into the bathroom of a private hangar. After collecting herself, Elizabeth Edwards came back into the hangar, found her husband and began yelling. She then pulled off her shirt and bra, leaving herself bare-chested, Reynolds said. 'You don't see me any more,' Reynolds quoted the wife as saying. Testimony will continue tomorrow as the trial ends the second of what is expected to be six weeks of hearings. | Bunny Mellon's interior designer said she was in love with Edwards . Former aide testified that John Edwards' mistress Rielle Hunter told him that she and the Senator were 'very much in love' | 990b268ebfd47be9e12c548818ae5653e319a099 |
Doctors and nurses face being struck off or disciplined if they cannot speak clearly in English, under new regulations announced today. The professionals - alongside other health care practitioners - can also be disciplined if their language skills aren't up to scratch according to the rules, published in a new draft bill by the Law Commission. Organisations including the Nursing and . Midwifery Council (NMC) and the General Medical Council (GMC) are currently bound . by different rules on what they can do. Doctors and nurses face being struck off or disciplined if they cannot speak clearly in English, under new regulations announced today . But the new bill will unite the nine bodies currently covering healthcare, allowing them to work from the same legislative framework. The powers would also allow regulators to proactively investigate instances of suspected poor conduct and practice whenever they come to their attention. whereas currently some can only investigate once they have received a formal complaint. For the first time the sanctions regulators can impose will be extended and they will be able to discipline or strike off professionals who are not able to communicate clearly in English. The Bill also allows regulators to reconsider cases that have been closed following a mistake or error, as recommended by the inquiry into the scandal at Mid Staffs. A process of revalidation - where professionals undergo 'MOTs' to ensure they are still fit to practise - will be extended from doctors to all health and social care professionals. Schemes could also be introduced to bar unregulated workers from providing services, according to the UK-wide recommendations. The nine organisations, including the . General Dental Council, General Pharmaceutical Council and Health . Professions Council, are responsible for around 1.4 million workers . across 32 health and social care roles. Nicholas Paines QC, the commissioner leading the project for England and Wales, said: 'The professional regulators of the health and social care field operate within a wide variety of legal frameworks that have been agreed and amended by Parliament in different ways, at different times, over the past 150 years. The new bill will unite the nine bodies currently covering healthcare . 'Our recommended reforms place patient protection firmly at the heart of a new legal framework. 'If implemented, they will enhance the autonomy of the regulators, empower them to respond more quickly and effectively to emerging public health concerns and enable them to meet the demands of a modern, devolved health and social care sector.' A joint letter signed by the regulators calls on the Government to support the new plans and asks for 'urgent parliamentary consideration' of the Bill. It said: 'The Law Commission was tasked with creating a single, streamlined legal structure covering all nine regulators which would enable us to provide better protection for patients, be more responsive, reduce the burden of regulation and to drive down costs. 'We were, and remain, committed to these aims. Realising them is essential if we are to retain the trust and confidence of the public, healthcare professionals and the health service in which those professionals work. 'The recommendations of Robert Francis QC following events in Mid Staffordshire highlighted the vital importance of effective regulation focused on promoting safe, compassionate patient care rather than, as too often in the past, intervening only after patients have suffered harm.' | Rules set to be published in a new draft bill by the Law Commission . Regulators can now proactively investigate suspected poor conduct . New bill will unite the nine bodies currently covering healthcare . | c5e24e4df1d50ad38cedbab6ea0006e4e72e5d5d |
The Queen and Prince Charles have been given at least 39 chances to veto legislation before it became law, it was revealed today. Secret papers show the most senior Royals have had numerous opportunities to torpedo bills that could change their powers, including a law that would have given parliament sole authority to sanction strikes on Iraq during the 1999 war. The extent of the influence the Queen and . Prince Charles have over legislation has been laid bare . because Downing Street lost a legal battle to keep details secret. Revealed: The Queen and Prince Charles have been asked to consent at least 39 laws, some of which they have vetoed, Cabinet documents show . Ministers and Whitehall mandarins must . ask them to approve or veto legislation across most areas of government . if it may impact on their interests, like the Crown estate and the . Prince's Duchy of Cornwall estate. The Queen's veto blocked the Military Actions Against Iraq Bill in 1999, a backbench bill making it necessary that Parliament must first consent before Tony Blair's government could launch air strikes against Saddam Hussein's Iraq. It was put forward by anti-war Labour MP Tam Dalyell but it failed as it did not receive the Royal Assent. Mr Dalyell said at the time: 'I am not going crawling to the Queen. This has nothing to do with her.' The Palace was also asked to agree bills linked to higher education, paternity pay, identity cards and child maintenance. The Whitehall legal pamphlet containing the information admits that if they do not give consent: 'a major plank of the bill must be removed'. System: The senior Royals are asked about legislation from Westminster that might have an impact on their own interests or estates . The Palace said today that Royals only use their veto if they are advised to by cabinet members or civil servants. But critics say it shows the amount of power in the monarchy's hands. Prince Charles has been criticised in the past for the number of letters he has written to ministers giving his views on policies. Influence: Cornish MP Andrew George says the revelations show the power the Queen and Prince Charles have over Parliament . Academic John Kirkhope, who fought the Government to release the documents, said: 'There has been an implication that these prerogative powers are quaint and sweet but actually there is real influence and real power, albeit unaccountable.' Andrew George, Liberal Democrat MP for . St Ives, part of which includes Duchy of Cornwall land, said: 'This is opening the eyes of those who believe the Queen only has a ceremonial role. 'It shows the Royals are playing an active role in the democratic . process and we need greater transparency in parliament so we can be . fully appraised of whether these powers of influence and veto are really . appropriate. At any stage this issue could come up and surprise us and . we could find parliament is less powerful than we thought it was.' The Queen's Duchy of Lancaster estate, which includes 19,000 hectares of land and 10 castles, pays for running Sandringham and Balmoral. Prince Charles's Duchy of Cornwall brings in £18million a year. A Buckingham Palace spokeswoman said: 'It is a long established convention that the Queen is asked by parliament to provide consent to those bills which parliament has decided would affect crown interests. The sovereign has not refused to consent to any bill affecting crown interests unless advised to do so by ministers.' A spokesman for Prince Charles at Clarence House added: 'In modern times, the Prince of Wales has never refused to consent to any bill affecting Duchy of Cornwall interests, unless advised to do so by ministers. Every instance of the prince's consent having been sought and given to legislation is a matter of public record.' | Senior Royals offered veto over 39 policies that had impact on their power . Queen blocked Iraq War law giving ministers sole power to authorise bombs . Palace: 'Decisions based on advice from ministers and civil servants' Critics: 'Queen and Prince Charles have too much power over Parliament' | 74889d16da47c9fbd7d2221bfc1b22004ce2b88e |
Four world-class properties were placed on the market this year in the exclusive Sydney suburb of Point Piper, making one square kilometer the most enviable in the country. The sales of the trophy residences in June, August, and most recently, on Friday, have elevated the North Shore suburb making it a millionaires row for a new set of owners. Three of the properties went under the hammer for over $30 million, and the remaining property, formerly owned by Lachlan and Sarah Murdoch, is expected to fetch a tidy $37 million when it is snatched up later in the year. There are high price hopes for the 110 Wolseley Road property, with anticipation that the residence will topple even the highest sales seen in the area over the past year. Selling agent Bart Doff from Laing+Simmons Double Bay said the property could sell for more than $37 million . The palatial master wing is connected a study, a bar and wine cellar, a butlers pantry, and marble-slab heated floors. The house currently holds three bedrooms, with room to develop a further two, as the levels are connected by a bespoke glass-view elevator. Selling agent Bart Doff from Laing+Simmons Double Bay said the property could sell for more than $37 million, reported the Sydney Morning Herald. Property developer and former next door neighbour Ron Medich pocketed the same amount earlier in the year for his 783 square metre Piper Point waterfront mansion. The property is currently owned by Karyn Zamel, wife of mining engineer Gary Zamel, who plan to downsize within the area. The couple bought their home for $20.6 million in 2005, up from the $12 million the Murdoch's paid for the property the year they married, 1999. The three-storey mansion offers direct and panoramic views of the Harbour Bridge, and boasts its own private jetty and in-ground pool. Mr Doff said the home was 'one of the world's most prized private waterfront trophy holdings'. The house currently holds three bedrooms, with room to develop a further two, as the levels are connected by a bespoke glass-view elevator. The palatial master wing is connected a study, a bar and wine cellar, a butlers pantry, and marble-slab heated floors. The three-storey mansion offers direct and panoramic views of the Harbour Bridge, and boasts its own private jetty and in-ground pool. There are high price hopes for the 110 Wolseley Road property, with anticipation that the residence will topple even the highest sales seen in the area over the past year. The four multi-million dollar properties are all located within a square kilometer of each other in the exclusive suburb of Point Piper . Selling in August for a tidy $30 million for businessman Charles Scarf and his wife Maria is this next stunning property. The 19-21 Wentworth Avenue estate had been on the market since 2012, with hopes of a $40 million sale. The property was sold by Elliott Placks of Ray White Double Bay, and is one of the largest properties in Point Piper. The estate is arranged on four separate titles on a north-east facing hillside, boasting a grand six-bedroom mansion and capturing sweeping northerly harbour views and within vine-covered sandstone walls. The estate also houses a championship tennis court, a self-contained apartment and an in-ground swimming pool . The 19-21 Wentworth Avenue estate had been on the market since 2012, with hopes of a $40 million sale. The Scarfs bought the property in 1992 for $8.25 million from former Elders executive Richard Weisener. The estate is arranged on four separate titles on a north-east facing hillside, boasting a grand six-bedroom mansion and capturing sweeping northerly harbour views and within vine-covered sandstone walls. The estate also houses a championship tennis court, a self-contained apartment and an in-ground swimming pool, and is set amid established gardens resting over 2,717sqm of premier level land. While the sprawling six-bedroom mansion was designed in 1959 by Professor Leslie Wilkinson, it was modernised recently by architect Michael Suttor and interior designer Michael Love. The property is set amid established gardens resting over 2,717sqm of premier level land. The Scarfs bought the property in 1992 for $8.25 million from former Elders executive Richard Weisener. This next waterfront property topped the sales when is was nabbed for $30 million in June this year. The 130 Wolseley Road residence was first placed on the market in 2006, with the asking price edging towards a $35 million peak. The 1000 square meter property was bought in 1996 for $12 million by the late peter and Ruth Simon from former FAI chairman Larry Adler. It was modernised in the same year by Gergely and Pinter Architects. The 130 Wolseley Road residence was first placed on the market in 2006, with the asking price edging towards a $35 million peak. The exquisite impressive marble foyer entry and staircase is complemented by the plentiful storage and cellar. The four-storey property features six bedrooms and a staggering eight bathrooms, with self-contained quarters and both formal and informal living areas. Outside, a deep-water jetty, swimming pool, pontoon and slipway magnify the extraordinary direct views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The property also boasts a function room, a size 20-seater dining room with wet bar, and commercial size kitchen. The exquisite impressive marble foyer entry and staircase is complemented by the plentiful storage and cellar. For the tech-savvy, there is a triple garage with internal access and lift to all levels. The four-storey property features six bedrooms and a staggering eight bathrooms, with self-contained quarters and both formal and informal living areas. The 1000 square meter property was bought in 1996 for $12 million by the late peter and Ruth Simon from former FAI chairman Larry Adler. Outside, a deep-water jetty, swimming pool, pontoon and slipway magnify the extraordinary direct views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. This next property was built almost 40 years ago by the former property developer and hotelier, Salvatore Paino. The site was bought for $135,000 and was built into a stunning five-storey property with five bedrooms. The sale took three months of negotiations, and sold for over $30 million through Michael Dunn and James Dunn from Richardson & Wrench Double Bay in conjunction with Enza Messina from Enza Messina Real Estate. The new buyers were reportedly deciding whether to renovate the well-loved property, or whether to rebuild on the site. The house was originally placed on the market with hopes of a $40 million sale, but according to the estate agent, needs a lot of work. The property occupies a forefront position, offering direct views of the Harbour Bridge which stretch from Double Bay to Manly. The property is set on 860 square meters with access via a private driveway, with the different living spaces flowing onto several wraparound terraces. Boasting five bedrooms and six bathrooms (including two powder rooms), the mansion includes a luxurious master suite with terrace access, a walk-in wardrobe and a resort-style ensuite. The property occupies a forefront position, offering direct views of the Harbour Bridge which stretch from Double Bay to Manly. The property is set on 860 square meters with access via a private driveway, with the different living spaces flowing onto several wraparound terraces. Boasting five bedrooms and six bathrooms (including two powder rooms), the mansion includes a luxurious master suite with terrace access, a walk-in wardrobe and a resort-style ensuite . | Selling for over $30 million, these properties new owners have some well-connected neighbours . Former property of Lachlan and Sarah Murdoch expected to break local market sale with $37 million . From an in-built glass elevator, panoramic Harbour views and private jetties, these mansions have it all! | fdf32daade10381b684ed0bfa8833708b4819a53 |
The businessman who forced Liam Fox to resign from the Cabinet by revealing he was travelling the world with a bogus 'adviser' is the secret paymaster behind a campaign to oust him as an MP. In 2011, it was revealed Dr Fox, the then Defence Secretary, had taken close friend Adam Werritty with him on 18 overseas trips as part of his official party, funded by private donors and business interests, and given him frequent access to the Ministry of Defence (MoD). Dubai-based Harvey Boulter was first to disclose Dr Fox and Mr Werritty's unorthodox relationship and now The Mail on Sunday has learnt he has donated £30,000 to Ukip candidate Ian Kealey – Dr Fox's main opponent in his North Somerset constituency. Mr Boulter's intervention may prove decisive. North Somerset is high on Ukip's list of target seats, and it came top there in last year's European Parliament elections . As well as the donation, Mr Boulter is paying for a billboard poster to be displayed in the area. It shows Dr Fox and Mr Werritty together at the former's wedding accompanied by the slogan 'Vote Him, Get Him' Dr Fox's relationship with Mr Werritty erupted into controversy when it emerged the MP had allowed his friend to create the 'misleading impression' he had an official Government position. It was also revealed Mr Werritty had been Dr Fox's best man at his 2005 wedding. An inquiry by Cabinet Secretary Sir Gus O'Donnell found Dr Fox had breached the Ministerial Code. As well as the donation, a UK company Mr Boulter controls is paying for a billboard poster to be displayed in the area. It shows the MP and Mr Werritty together at Dr Fox's wedding accompanied by the slogan 'Vote Him, Get Him'. Mr Boulter's intervention may prove decisive. North Somerset is high on Ukip's list of target seats, and it came top there in last year's European Parliament elections. Mr Kealey, 56, a nuclear physicist-turned-farmer, said yesterday: 'Harvey's generous donation is making quite a big difference, enabling us to get the Ukip message across with a series of newsletters and other campaign activities.' Following the scandal, Dr Fox, 56, resigned, apologising for 'errors of judgment' and mixing up his professional and personal loyalties . Mr Boulter said he believed North Somerset 'deserved better' than Dr Fox. He added: 'I believe it is true that Ukip is best positioned to unseat him.' If that happens it will be sweet revenge for Mr Boulter. Although his main revelations were unchallenged, Dr Fox sued him for libel over comments he made in an unbroadcast portion of a TV interview published online. Last year he settled and paid damages. Mr Werritty, 36, lived rent-free in Dr Fox's flat. He had no security clearance, but attended meetings inside the MoD on numerous occasions, and carried a business card which falsely claimed he was an official 'advisor'. The scandal began when he presented this to Mr Boulter at a meeting in Dubai to discuss a business deal with the MoD. Following the scandal, Dr Fox, 56, resigned, apologising for 'errors of judgment' and mixing up his professional and personal loyalties. Last night he said: 'I look forward to fighting the election on the issues that affect my constituents in North Somerset.' | In 2011, revealed that Liam Fox had taken friend with him on overseas trips . Harvey Boulter disclosed Dr Fox's relationship with Adam Werritty . Now donated £30,000 to Ukip candidate Ian Kealey in his constituency . Mr Boulter said he believed North Somerset 'deserved better' than Dr Fox . | 668b7d2c1a2ec604271bed9c4d32c5e0e2c6ecab |
Mark Palios and his wife Nicola have become the new owners of League Two's Tranmere Rovers. The takeover - as reported by Sportsmail's Charles Sale earlier this month - sees Mark, a former FA chief executive and midfielder who made 249 league appearances for Rovers, replace Peter Johnson after the pair reached an agreement. The shift means Mark will act as executive chairman and Nicola as vice-chairman, while Johnson will remain a shareholder, director and an honorary president. CLICK HERE to start picking your Fantasy Football team NOW! There's £60,000 in prices including £1,000 up for grabs EVERY WEEK! New era: Mark and Nicola Palios are the new owners of League Two Tranmere . Put your shirt on them: The Palioses have an 'unusual mix' of football and business knowledge . Tunnel vision: The husband-and-wife team are looking to get Tranmere back up the Football League pyramid . Regular: Mark is a former Football Association chief executive and made 249 league appearances for Rovers . New owners: Mark and Nicola are 'the safe pair of hands to ensure the club's future' on Merseyside . The former Football Association chief executive resigned from his post in early August 2004 following media revelations about his relationship with FA secretary, Faria Alam - the same secretary that went on to have an affair with England manager Sven Goran Eriksson. At the time, Palios said: ‘I am very sad that I feel this is necessary. It has been a privilege to be chief executive of the Football Association but with privilege comes the burden of responsibility.’ He added: ‘Personally, I do not accept that I have been guilty of any wrongdoing.’ 'I have been looking for a safe pair of hands to ensure the club's future,' Johnson, who took control of the club in 1987, told Tranmere's official website. 'In Mark and Nicola I have found that. As a local lad who played for the club, and a former chief executive of the FA with a successful commercial track record, Mark is uniquely placed to help lead Tranmere to a bright future. 'Nicola is an accomplished lawyer and businesswoman. 'Between them, they have the passion and the experience to take the club forward and I am looking forward to working on the board with them. 'Finding this mix of football and business skills is highly unusual.' Tranmere drew their first game of the season 1-1 against York City, after the Birkenhead outfit suffered relegation last year. Mark added: 'There is a big job to be done to get the club back in the higher divisions and get the facilities back up to scratch. 'In the coming weeks and months we will share with you our plans on how we intend to make it happen.' Handshake: Former England manager Sven Goran Eriksson and Mark together in London in March 2004 . New season: Max Power and Rovers are battling to get out of League Two are they were relegated last year . | Mark and Nicola Palios take controlling interest in Tranmere Rovers after reaching agreement with former owner Peter Johnson . Mark resigned as Football Association chief executive in early August 2004 after it was revealed he had a relationship with FA secretary Faria Alam . Alam also had affair with former England manager Sven Goran Eriksson . Liverpool-born Mark made 249 league appearances as a Tranmere midfielder . Johnson: 'I have been looking for a safe pair of hands to ensure the club's future (and) in Mark and Nicola, I have found that' Sportsmail reported Palios' imminent takeover almost two weeks ago . | ff6119a7e3572fdf85aaa8af96d02d5a9bdab21e |
By . Anna Edwards . PUBLISHED: . 01:25 EST, 4 February 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 08:25 EST, 4 February 2013 . Fidel Castro has made a rare public appearance after he voted in the country's parliamentary elections. Millions of Cubans joined the 86-year-old former leader of Cuba to vote in what critics have branded a 'closed' election that offers no real competition. The revolutionary icon, who appears in public only occasionally now since he fell ill in 2006, was among those voting in Havana yesterday. Scroll down for video . Former Cuban leader Fidel Castro cast his vote for the general election in a school polling station in Havana . Government critics call Cuban elections perfunctory, noting that only the Communist Party is permitted on the island . The government has defended the process, saying it is a show of grass-roots democracy. Authorities say the lack of multiple . parties or political campaigning keeps corruption and special-interest . money out of elections, and point to high turnout as proof that it's a . participatory system. The elected unicameral legislature will meet on February 24 and pick a new parliament chief for the first time in two decades, with the body's longtime leader, Ricardo Alarcon, not on the ballot. The body is also expected to rename Raul Castro, whom state TV showed casting his ballot in the eastern province of Santiago, as president for another five years. Voting began last October with municipal elections. Term limits do not exist in Cuba, but on various occasions Castro has proposed limiting public officials including the president to two consecutive periods in office. Castro, who now appears in public only occasionally after his illness, was among more than 8 million islanders eligible to vote . Castro and his younger brother Raul have headed up the government for five decades . Government critics call Cuban elections perfunctory, noting that only the Communist Party is permitted on the island and only one approved candidate is on the ballot for each seat in parliament. Castro and his older brother Fidel, now retired, have headed up the government for five decades. Parliamentary candidates don't need to belong to the Communist Party, but those who don't generally are members of allied organizations. After casting his ballot at a school in an upscale neighborhood of western Havana, Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez 'It is a different electoral system. 'Personally I find it is more democratic than (others) I know.' More than 8 million islanders are eligible to vote, and will approve 612 members of the National Assembly and over 1,600 provincial delegates. The government said turnout in 2008, when the last parliamentary election was held, was 96.8 percent. 'I come to vote of my own volition with the hope that we will see the delegates and representatives do their job, that they don't just get comfortable, that we see improvement,' said Arnaldo Herrera, a 54-year-old electrician, at a polling site in historic Old Havana. 'They need to do something, for example fix buildings that have problems. Some of them are falling down,' Mr Herrera added. 'People need to feel satisfied by what they do.' Castro's appearance will quell rumours . about his health, as whispers that the former Cuban leader has died or . is near death have circulated repeatedly for years . Castro's health is considered a matter of national security in Cuba and few details are released. | Millions have voted in elections that critics say offer no real competition . Revolutionary, who appears in public only occasionally now since he fell ill in 2006, was among those voting in Havana . | f9d63414b48a9142b4485176bcaacf646de63561 |
Former Prime Minister Paul Keating has suggested a solution for young people who can’t afford their own home – to allow them to access their superannuation earlier. The 70-year-old one-time Labor party leader, said a shortage in financial help and houses available for first-time buyers was a position 'we cannot persist with'. Speaking at property investment company MaxCap Group’s Developers and Dealers Forum last week, Mr Keating said we are in a situation ‘where our children cannot afford to house themselves’. Scroll down for video . Former Prime Minister Paul Keating has suggested a solution to young people who can’t afford their own home . Offering up superannuation funds as a solution, he said: ‘Superannuation funds will have to do things in the spaces traditionally left to banks, such as property development, and we will see a shift in the balance in financing this industry,’ Property Observer reports. In August first home buyer activity hit a new low, with the worst sales levels in 15 years. There were 6,054 first home buyers committed to housing finance over the month, according to RP Data research which used finance data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. In August first home buyer activity hit a new low, with the worst sales levels in 15 years . At the moment, in most cases young people cannot access their superannuation before the age of 60 . The dramatic decline in people joining the property ladder has been blamed on rising property prices, particularly in Sydney and Melbourne. It has also been linked to changes made to the availability of First Home Buyer grants, which vary from state to state. The states showing the most severe first home buyer trends are NSW, Victoria, Queensland and the ACT. At the moment most young people cannot access their superannuation before the age of 60 unless they satisfy one of 14 conditions of release. These conditions include severe financial hardship, death, permanent disability and compassionate grounds. | Former Prime Minister Paul Keating has stuck up first-time buyers . He spoke out at an investment conference last week . The 70-year-old suggested young people should be able to access their superannuations earlier so they can get on the property ladder . In August, first home buyer activity hit a new low, with the worst sales levels in 15 years . | 1e804a8b7c145f226f97c2d7a90e12924fb4ce58 |
By . Deni Kirkova . A mother-of-three is making her circus debut tonight after mastering her impressive hula hoop act in her back garden. Lisa Sampson, 34, from Upper Beeding in West Sussex, couldn't even touch her toes when she took her three children to a circus workshop in 2012 in an attempt to encourage . them to take up an act. But she ended up coming away with a love of hula hooping and has been hard at it in her garden it for two hours a day ever since. Lisa Sampson, 34, is performing at the circus tonight but couldn't even touch her toes two years ago . The former hairdresser is now so skilled that she has now set up her own hula-hoop classes. Lisa said: 'I saw this person perform and I just thought 'I really want to do that, it looks so cool'. That's where the inspiration came from. 'So I bought my daughter a hoop for her to practice with and ended up using it myself. 'Unfortunately I broke that one so I bought another one - then when I got really good I started making my own and trying and learning more and more new tricks. 'I bought DVDs and watched YouTube videos to teach myself new tricks. 'My kids have never taken it up - Damon is into stilt walking and often walks on them to school but otherwise none of them followed up the workshop.' The former hairdresser now runs her own hula-hoop classes and debuts her act tonight . Lisa's children, Shaquille, 15, . Mya, 12, and Damon, eight, and husband of five years Neil Sampson, 40, who works in IT, are all 100 per cent behind her new passion in life. They will all be in attendance in the audience tonight in Shoreham, West Sussex, where Lisa will be spinning more than 30 hoops around her body during her three-minute act at Circus Wonderland, which is on until Sunday. She added: 'They all thought it was really funny to watch me at first in the garden because I couldn't keep the hoop up. 'So I thought 'I will do this' and now they absolutely love it. 'Quite often when they have their mates round they ask me to perform my new tricks for them so I like to think they're big fans of what I do. 'I never had an interest in the circus at all until I went to this workshop and visited the circus I'm now performing at last year. 'I went a couple of times in my childhood but I barely remember it but now I'm obsessed - I went to see the Cirque Du Soleil recently in London and it was amazing.' Hula hooper Lisa Sampson with Popol the clown, who is ringmaster of the show . Residents in the village of Upper Beeding have dubbed Lisa the 'Secret Hooper' after seeing her perform in the local park . Residents in the village of Upper Beeding have dubbed Lisa the 'Secret Hooper' after seeing her perform in the local park. She said: 'They always ask me 'Why do you never show anyone what you can do?' 'I'm quite nervous about performing at the show but I might as well go for it - it's all I want to do now.' Lisa will spin more than 30 hoops around her body in front of a packed audience tonight . | Lisa Sampson, 34, took her children to a circus workshop in 2012 . Even though she couldn't touch her toes, she fell in love with hula hooping . Former hairdresser from Upper Beeding practiced for two hours every day . Lisa makes her stage debut at Wonderland Circus in Shoreham tonight . | 954bb5ea6700bf3344d6414e3e84250232cf3006 |
LONDON (CNN) -- Did President Obama land a Nobel peace prize at such an early stage of his presidency simply because he's not George W. Bush? A "surprised and humbled" Obama said he would accept the Nobel peace prize as a "call to action." Diplomatic circles are certainly not dismissing such a notion and a "surprised and humbled" Obama has himself agreed that the award (for which nominations had to be submitted only two weeks after his inauguration) can hardly have been a recognition of anything he has yet accomplished. It is a prize for aspiration rather than achievement. One of the best deliberate laughs Bush obtained in his last days in office came when he expressed himself pleased at the street reception during his attendance at a NATO summit in Romania. "A lot of the crowd were waving... some of them with all five fingers," he said. Bush was acknowledging that many in Old Europe at least could not wait to say goodbye to a man whom they saw as a Cold Warrior at heart, the president who had led the world into a disastrous intervention in Iraq and a man heading a gas-guzzling nation who was not prepared to help the world cope with climate change. For many Europeans, the chief concern through the long, drawn-out race for the Democratic nomination and through the presidential election was that the result should give them anybody but Bush. Watch reaction in Europe to Obama's award . They were uneasy about his missile defense shield plans to base U.S. military installations in Poland and the Czech Republic. They felt he had never lived up to his pledge to work as hard on the Middle East peace process as Tony Blair had done on bringing peace to Northern Ireland. Especially they felt that the internment camp at Guantanamo Bay and the "extraordinary rendition" to countries where terror suspects might have been tortured was an affront to democracy which besmirched the reputation not only of the U.S. but of its allies, too. Europeans were alarmed that Bush seemed to be encouraging the climate change deniers. And although he became readier to listen to his European allies during his second term, they never really took to the man whose instinctive response was to use America's military might in the world's trouble spots rather than to stay at the negotiating table and who had little time for the United Nations. Couple that with the words in the Norwegian Nobel Committee's citation that the peace prize is being awarded to Obama "for his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and co-operation between peoples" and that they have "attached special importance to Obama's vision of and work for a world without nuclear weapons," and the message is clear. Unusually, this is a world statesman being rewarded not for what he has done but for representing a new beginning. As Mikhail Gorbachev was quick to point out, the Obama presidency is a big signal -- "He has given hope." By commenting approvingly that Obama has created a new climate in international politics, with emphasis on the role of diplomacy and of the United Nations, the Nobel Committee is clearly encouraging the new president, after just eight months in office, to continue with a style that Europeans find much more comfortable than that of Bush and the neo-conservatives. Those who worked with Bush are likely to feel aggrieved and to maintain that they, too, were working for the extension of democracy for which Obama is now being commended. As Europe digested the news of the prize, nobody wanted to go public with critical comment on a man who is still seen across Europe as a beacon of hope. But there were off-the-record mutters that this was all somewhat premature. Cool heads were noting that while intentions have been expressed, there has been no significant progress yet on the Middle East peace process. The proposed closedown of Guantanamo Bay has been announced but it has not happened. There are still large numbers of American troops in Iraq and the numbers in Afghanistan are likely to be increased. While Obama has spoken of his hope of agreeing with Russia on a reduction in the number of nuclear warheads, we are nowhere near to seeing an end to nuclear weapons, which are currently in the possession of the U.S., Russia, China, India, the United Kingdom, France, Pakistan and Israel. Obama may want the Senate to ratify the test-ban treaty but that has not happened yet and his moves on climate change, too, will require congressional compliance. The truth, say many continental commentators, is that Obama deserves a badge for effort -- an effort begun by scrapping the missile shield development in Poland and the Czech Republic -- but a peace prize is a step too far at such an early stage. He is being rewarded not for solid achievement but for creating new hope -- in effect, for not being Bush. It may well be, as President Sarkozy of France has declared, that the award "confirms finally America's return to the hearts of the people of the world." But some fear that America's conservatives will take it as a sign of weakness and become more obstructive to Obama's aims. Meanwhile, others are wondering: "What on earth will they give him when he does have a real achievement to point to?" | Oakley: Obama's Nobel an award for aspiration rather than achievement . Europeans had hopes that Bush's successor would be different . Nobel committee said Obama had created favorable international political climate . Some commentators say Obama should be saluted for effort but not yet a Nobel . | 70f76004c5aafe4787cfca741f1d4b40af51c01e |
A new photo of a mysterious flying object over Kansas has been revealed. It appears to be the same aircraft as one that was snapped soaring over Texas last month. The exact identify of the aircraft remains a mystery, but rumours abound that it could be a secret jet. A mysterious flying object was snapped flying over Wichita, Kansas by Jeff Templin. It resembles a similar unidentified aircraft streaking across the skies of Texas last month . 'The photo is grainy because it was taken with a hand-held maxed-out 400mm telephoto lens through a cloud layer and then it was severely cropped to bring it up even close,' says Jeff Templin, who took the photo on 16 April. 'There is no way to know the altitude and no way to judge its size as there is no point of reference. 'My sense of it with the naked eye was that it was quite high, at least the altitude passenger jets cruise over but if it were smaller like a "drone" it could conceivably have been lower and smaller.' The Aviationist speculates that the plane could be a RQ-180 stealth drone or a prototype of America's next generation long range strike bomber (LSRB). They, too, are unsure if it is the same plane as the one spotted previously . A retired Marine with nearly two decades of aviation experience stepped forward with a compelling theory about the mysterious plane that was spotted flying over Texas last month. On March 10, photographers Steve Douglass and Dean Muskett took pictures of three puzzling aircraft flying over Amarillo, and posted them online in hopes of identifying the planes. Retired-Marine James Vineyard submitted one of the more interesting explanations, telling the Houston Chronicle he believed they were SR-72 Blackbirds - a spy plane that can cross the U.S. in less than an hour, unmanned. The triangle over Texas: Two photographers captured this mysterious object flying over Texas last month . Mystery solved? A retired Marine says the plane pictured in Amarillo last month is the SR-72 Blackbird - a plane designed to cross the country in less than an hour . The mystery aircraft seen over Amarillo on March 10. Three of the craft were spotted flying by . Vineyard spent 17 years as a Marine and also worked with a jet squadron in Arizona. In 1956, British magazines started . getting eyewitness accounts and grainy photos of the Lockheed U-2, then . operating out of RAF Lakenheath on its first flights over the Soviet . Union - marking the first sight of a spy plane that government's . had hoped to keep secret from prying eyes. It provided day and night, very high-altitude (70,000 feet / 21,000 m), all-weather intelligence gathering. He . says the Pentagon may have dispatched the planes to the Indian Ocean to . aide in the search for missing Malaysian Airlines flight 370. But Douglass, who saw the planes himself, doesn't agree. 'The . SR-72 is still in development,' he said Tuesday. 'Plus it's a . high-speed, high-Mach plane. These were going airliner speed. They were . not in a hurry to get anywhere.' The . SR-72 is currently being developed by Lockheed Martin in California, . and according to the company's website they say the plane could be . operational as early as 2030. It . is the predecessor of the SR-71 which broke speed records when it flew . from New York to Lonton in less than two hours in 1976. Lockheed . Martin's Hypersonics program manager Brad Leland wrote that the plane . is designed to 'strike at nearly any location across a continent in less . than an hour.' 'Speed is . the next aviation advancement to counter emerging threats in the next . several decades. The technology would be a game-changer in theater, . similar to how stealth is changing the battlespace today,' Leland said. Another source told the Chronicle that the plane was a B-2, but the two photographers discovered that no B-2s were flying in the country that day . The SR-72 is a successor to the SR-71 which broke speed records when it flew from New York to London in less than two hours in 1976 . Another . reader, who wished not to be identified, told the Chronicle with . confidence that 'It's a B-2 stealth bomber flying out of Whiteman Air . Force Base in Missouri.' That's . what the photographers thought when they first saw the group of . aircraft, but they say they checked with the base and no B-2s were . flying anywhere in the U.S. that day. Instead, . Douglass believes that the planes are a no type of spy plane - a . stealth transport plane that could sneak troops into a another country . unseen. | A new image shows a mysterious aircraft flying over Kansas . The jet appears to be the same one that was spotted over Texas last month . Photographer Jeff Templin says it may have been as high as passenger jets . A retired Marine previously said the mysterious plane is the SR-72 . The SR-72 is designed to cross entire continents in less than an hour . Developers at Lockheed Martin say the plane could be operational by 2030 . | 0440a942d62b85e6afd2ca92d5395b832dc60a2d |
By . Emily Allen . Last updated at 2:31 PM on 6th December 2011 . Two men have been arrested after a seven-year-old boy died after allegedly being beaten at his home. Police were alerted just after 7pm on Saturday after schoolboy Blake Fowler was taken to hospital from an address in Cromarty Road, Shirley, Southampton, Hampshire. He died the following day at Southampton General Hospital after suffering a serious head injury. Tragic: Blake Fowler's mother Sarah Spacagna wrote on Facebook: 'Rest in peace mummy's baby u will always be in my heart xxxxx' Blake's step-father Peter Meek, 23, was being questioned by police on suspicion of grievous bodily harm along with his brother Philip, 21, the Sun said. The pair were looking after his fiancee Sarah Spacagna's three children while she was out. Blake's family made the decision to turn of his life support machine on Sunday after doctors said he would never wake up, the newspaper added. Police were alerted just after 7pm on Saturday after Blake Fowler was taken to hospital from an address in Cromarty Road, pictured, in Shirley, Southampton . Blake's mother Ms Spacagna, 26, of . Southampton, paid tribute to her son on Facebook. She wrote: 'Rest in peace mummy's baby u . will always be in my heart xxxxx'. Officers said they were not treating the death as murder and were waiting for the results of a post-mortem. Blake died at Southampton General Hospital, pictured, on Sunday after suffering a serious head injury. Doctors told his mother he would never wake up . A Hampshire police spokeswoman told . MailOnline: 'Police officers in Southampton are investigating the . circumstances in which a seven-year-old boy from the city received a . life threatening head injury from which he eventually died. 'Officers are continuing to investigate how the boy came to receive the injury, and as part of that investigation a 23-year-old man and a 21-year-old man, both from Shirley, were arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm. 'They have since been released on bail until March 6 while investigations continue.' | Police not treating Blake Fowler's death as murder . | fc69605424e2f558fb3ec7de0d35194029a3d912 |
(CNN) -- An American student fatally stabbed in Egypt was so fascinated with the region, he read poems about it to his girlfriend, his mother said. Andrew Pochter of Chevy Chase, Maryland, was stabbed Friday in the port city of Alexandria. He was in the country teaching English to elementary school children. "As we understand it, he was witnessing the protest as a bystander and was stabbed by a protester," his family said in a statement. "He went to Egypt because he cared profoundly about the Middle East, and he planned to live and work there in the pursuit of peace and understanding." Egyptian state media reported that he was stabbed in the chest while filming the protests. Protests have raged for days between supporters and foes of Egyptian President Mohamed Morsy, prompting the United States to recently warn its citizens against travel to the nation. Poetry about the region . The 21-year-old went to Egypt this year after spending time in Morocco and falling in love with the region. Before the trip, he interned for AMIDEAST, an American nonprofit that focuses on the Middle East and North Africa. He also took a class in regional politics. While enrolled in the class, he read poems about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to his girlfriend, said his mother, Elizabeth Pochter. "The class wasn't just about some detached war to him, but a struggle that he passionately wanted to resolve," she said, according to a statement by Kenyon College, where he had just completed his sophomore year. "Andrew was a person who didn't see the world as separate nations, but a collection of vibrant cultures." Governments issue warnings against travel to Egypt . 'One of the rare kids' His goal was to understand the political and religious dynamics in the region, sharpen his Arabic skills and learn the different dialects, according to his family. "He was one of the rare kids who lived what he believed," said Marc Bragin, a chaplain at Kenyon. "His belief was that everyone should be included, everyone had a voice, and no one should be left out because what they think is different than what others think." Rugby player, radio station host . A religious studies major, Pochter was raised in a Christian and Jewish household, and was a member of the Middle Eastern Students Association. He was headed into his junior year in college. After Egypt and Morocco, he planned to venture farther into the region, including a planned trip to Amman, Jordan. "In an essay as part of his application for the study-abroad program in Jordan, Andrew ... reflected on his hopes to develop 'life-long ties ... with Arab-speaking friends,' " the college said in a statement. Pochter, a college radio station host, had varied interests, including rugby and cooking, his mother said. Kenyon College said it was planning a memorial service in the fall. In addition to his mother, Pochter is survived by his father, Theodore Pochter, and sister, Emily Pochter . Opinion: Get ready for Egypt's 'second revolution' CNN's Yousuf Basil and Greg Botelho contributed to this report. | NEW: Egypt state media say he was filming the protests . Relatives: Andrew Pochter was watching protests in Alexandria when he was stabbed . The 21-year-old went to Egypt this year after spending time in Morocco . Family: He planned to live in the Middle East "in the pursuit of peace and understanding" | f921d07d57eb3c881827e1e7aaf2e0944d0f11a4 |
(CNN) -- Since April, 117 law enforcement agencies in 18 states have decided to ignore U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement requests to keep foreign-born people in jail on suspicion they might be undocumented immigrants. These "detainers" ask local and county agencies to hold individuals up to 48 hours after local charges are resolved to allow ICE time to investigate their immigration status. California, Oregon and Washington state have seen the highest number of agencies changing their policies out of fear of being sued. The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office in Florida and Polk County Sheriff's Office in Iowa last week were the latest agencies to change their detainer policies. Police agencies began reacting after several federal judges ruled that police were violating the constitutional rights by not releasing the immigrants after resolving their state charges. The advocacy group Catholic Legal Immigration Network says that more than 190 agencies in three states and the District of Columbia enacted policies that reduce or eliminate cooperation with ICE detainers. But ICE spokesman Nestor Yglesias disputed that number, saying that "U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is aware of 134 different law enforcement agencies throughout the country that are no longer honoring ICE detainers." That number includes agencies that opted out before April. Fred Wilson, director of operations for the National Sheriffs' Association, which represents most of the 3,083 sheriff's agencies in the country, said the national organization has not taken an official position on the matter. "It's not a viral movement, but it's raising some legitimate legal issues," Wilson. The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office explained its new policy: "Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office will require Orders of Deportation or Warrants signed by a federal judge/magistrate, or other court related order, to hold individuals beyond the time they would otherwise be released," the agency said in a written statement. The issue boils down to due process, immigration advocates say. Every person in the United States -- citizen or illegal immigrant, has the same basic right of due process under the Constitution, says south Florida immigration attorney Jeffrey Devore. "Detain first, ask questions later," is the problem with ICE detainers, Devore said. "Under our Constitution, you have to have some reasonable reason to detain people." In an Oregon case, Maria Miranda-Olivares pleaded guilty to violating a domestic restraining order and was sentenced to time served. Clackamas County officials held Olivares 19 additional hours until transferring her into federal custody under an ICE detainer. She sued and on April 11 a federal judge found the county violated her Fourth Amendment rights for unreasonable search and seizure by holding her without probable cause and with no warrant for her arrest. The federal judge in Oregon cited other cases that ICE immigration detainers are "requests" -- and, therefore, not mandatory. Yglesias, in a written statement said, "When law enforcement agencies turn over criminals into ICE custody rather than into the community, it helps protect both public safety and the safety of law enforcement." Law enforcement sends fingerprints of anyone arrested in the United States to the FBI and prints of those born outside the United States are forwarded to ICE for an immigration status check. The Secure Communities program, started under President George W. Bush in 2008 and expanded largely under the Obama administration, was designed to prevent undocumented immigrants from committing serious crimes. ICE updated its policy last year and eliminated detainer requests for undocumenteds arrested for misdemeanors and petty crimes, saying its priority is to remove undocumented immigrants who commit serious crimes. In 2013, ICE removed 368,644 immigrants from the United States. Most were apprehended crossing the border illegally. Of those arrested within the country, ICE says 82% had been previously convicted of a crime. Advocates for immigrants are concerned the increased deportations separate families, said Jennifer Riddle, an attorney with the Catholic Legal Immigration Network. Pro-immigrant groups have pushed hard for law enforcement agencies, and local and state government officials to change their detainer policies. The Immigration Legal Resource Center focuses its online efforts to teach advocates how to best "explain the risk of civil liability if they continue to hold immigrants for ICE," Riddle said. "It's not the local law enforcement's job to do immigration enforcement," Riddle said. "They are to protect their local community," said the advocate. The Broward County Sheriff's Office in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is taking steps to avoid legal pitfalls. In its decision to not enforce ICE detainers, its attorney cites two judges' rulings against police agencies. "In light of these cases, personnel should not honor ICE detainers unless they are supported by probable cause," wrote the sheriff's legal in June. In Austin, Texas, Travis County Sheriff Greg Hamilton disagreed with county commissioners decision to stop enforcing federal detainers. The sheriff said his organization will continue to honor the federal request since it keeps his community safe. | Police agencies declining to hold suspects for immigration authorities over lawsuit fears . Immigration and Customs officials acknowledge that more than 100 agencies have opted out . ICE wanted suspects held before local authorities released them to check their immigration status . | 92803072ad4d237c6a03c4d611d21be932263908 |
Wayne Rooney revealed his delight in the early hours on Tuesday morning after the arrival of his second child, Klay. Wife Coleen was rushed into labour late on Saturday night, meaning Rooney had to miss champions Manchester United's final Premier League game of the season against West Bromwich Albion. Rooney announced the news on Twitter, telling his legion of over six million followers: 'Our Beautiful Son Klay Anthony Rooney was born at 2.11am, Weighing 7Ib 11.1/2 oz. Both Klay and Coleen are fine..... We're all delighted!!' Happy family: Rooney tweeted this picture of himself, Coleen, Kai and Klay . Roo beauty: Wayne Rooney arrives with son Kai on Tuesday to see his newborn child . All smiles: Coleen posted this picture on Twitter with the words: 'Thanks everyone for the lovely messages' Hands on: Wayne and Coleen Rooney leave the hospital after the birth of their second son . It's a boy: Coleen's mum and Kai head into the hospital . It's a brace: Wayne and Coleen Rooney, who already have three-year-old son Kai, announced the arrival of their second boy Klay in the early hours on Tuesday morning . Making it a double: Wayne announced the good news on his Twitter page in the early hours of Tuesday morning . Happy days: After going into labour late on Saturday night, Coleen was delighted to announce the arrival of her second son . 'He who is immortal. It is a male name, suitable for baby boys.' Source: quickbabynames.com . Klay means 'he who is immortal' and with Rooney a huge boxing fan, the name could have been inspired by ring great Cassius Clay (now, of course, Muhammad Ali). His message, posted at 3.49am, received widespread congratulations from his fans including celebrities Ed Sheeran and Apprentice star Lord Sugar, who were among the first to send their best wishes. Coleen later tweeted: 'At 2.11am our Beautiful Son .... Klay Anthony Rooney entered the world. He weighed 7Ib 11.1/2 oz We're all so happy and doing well. X' Manchester United's official Twitter account posted: 'Great news overnight from the Rooney family. Congratulations to Wayne, Coleen and Kai on the birth of Klay Anthony from all at #MUFC.' The 27-year-old is expected to have some downtime with his family, including three-year-old son Kai, before linking up with Roy Hodgson's England squad at the weekend ahead of next Wednesday's friendly at Wembley against the Republic of Ireland. Despite ongoing issues at his club, with his future at Old Trafford seemingly uncertain having asked for a transfer, Rooney is in contention to captain his country. National service: Rooney, pictured wearing the new Three Lions strip, will play for England in the upcoming summer friendlies against the Republic of Ireland and Brazil . Bookmakers Ladbrokes have installed Klay Rooney at 250-1 to play for England . After the Ireland match, Rooney is expected to travel with the Three Lions for the glamour friendly against Brazil on June 1 in Rio. The striker is understood to be keen to start afresh under new Manchester United boss David Moyes, his former manager at Everton, and is seeking reassurance about his future. The pair once fell out over false claims made in the player’s autobiography about Moyes leaking information to the press. Since then, though, Moyes has spoken . warmly of Rooney after he said the player phoned him to apologise . personally and to thank his old boss for the guidance he gave early in . his career. Moyes is . expected to meet Rooney, before taking a holiday at the end of this . month, as one of the more pressing issues at the start of his Old . Trafford reign. Over to you David: New United boss Moyes must speak to Rooney about his future after the striker told retiring manager Sir Alex Ferguson that he wanted to leave Old Trafford . | Coleen gave birth to Klay Anthony at 2.11am on Tuesday . The 27-year-old tweeted that baby Klay weighed 7Ib 11.5 oz . Klay is a brother for three-year-old Kai . Lord Sugar and Ed Sheeran tweeted their best wishes . | 30d308beac2ce56014059b23eb422f4278a25f89 |
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Republicans kept the pressure on the president's Supreme Court pick Friday, pushing the idea that Judge Sonia Sotomayor is an activist judge who will bring a leftist agenda to the bench. Judge Sonia Sotomayor in the White House with Vice President Joseph Biden and President Obama. Meanwhile, the White House tried to soften remarks Sotomayor made in 2001 that have rankled conservatives, who say her assertion that her experiences as a Latina woman might make her judgments more sound than those of a white man brands her as a racist. "I'm sure she would have restated it, but if you look at the entire sweep of the essay she wrote, what's clear is that she was simply saying that her life experiences will give her information about the struggles and hardships that people are going through that will make her a good judge," President Obama said in an interview with NBC's Brian Williams. Sotomayor, a U.S. District Court judge who would be the first Hispanic on the Supreme Court if she is confirmed, spoke on her reflections as a Latina judge during a 2001 speech at the University of California-Berkeley Law School. Different perspectives brought on by individual experiences, she said, create a "diversity of opinion" even within groups, and those perspectives will especially differ from the majority in a white male-dominated society. Pointing out that studies show "women and people of color ... report in significantly higher percentages than white men that their gender and race has shaped their careers," Sotomayor said that the idea of "impartiality is an aspiration because it denies the fact that we are by our experiences making different choices than others." Thus, she said -- in the remarks that have offended conservatives -- "I would hope that a wise Latina woman with the richness of her experiences would more often than not reach a better conclusion than a white male who hasn't lived that life." "Let us not forget that wise men like Oliver Wendell Holmes and Justice [Benjamin] Cardozo voted on cases which upheld both sex and race discrimination in our society," she said. "Until 1972, no Supreme Court case ever upheld the claim of a woman in a gender discrimination case." White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said that Sotomayor's "word choice in 2001 was poor." "She was simply making the point that personal experiences are relevant to the process of judge," he said, "that your personal experiences make you have a tendency to make you more aware of certain facts and certain cases, that your experiences impact your understanding. I think we all agree with that and that on a court that is collegial, that it can help others that are trying to wrestle with the facts of those cases." Gibbs took issue with a former congressman's comparison of the Hispanic civil rights group that sponsored that speech with the Ku Klux Klan. "It's sort of hard to completely quantify the outrage I think almost anybody would feel at the notion that you are being compared to somebody who used to be a member of the Ku Klux Klan," Gibbs said, referring to remarks made by former Republican Rep. Tom Tancredo, who condemned Sotomayor on CNN Thursday for her membership in the National Council of La Raza, an organization he called "a Latino KKK without the hoods or the nooses." On CNN Friday, La Raza president Janet Murguia disputed Tancredo's statements about the 40-year-old group. The motto, she said, is not "All for the race, nothing for the rest," the organization is very much "mainstream," the group's name does not translate to "the race" as understood in English. Our name has a long history to it, but the bottom line is that words in English and in Spanish, have different meanings," she said. "Race in Spanish, la raza in Spanish, has a broader meaning. It means the people, the community. And it really is meant to be a very inclusive term. It comes from the term 'la raza cosmica,' the cosmic race, which is a very inclusive term." Sotomayor's remarks drew charges of racism from former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, radio talker Rush Limbaugh and others, although Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas said such language about the nominee was "terrible." And former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, also of Texas, slammed La Raza and another Hispanic civil rights organization, the League of United Latin American Citizens, as "a bunch of radical leftists that try to make the world believe that they speak for Hispanics," but said the debate about Sotomayor's background "is racist in itself." "I am disgusted that we are considering her nomination because she is Hispanic," he told CNN. "She has a world view. She has a judicial temperament. She has a record. And that's what we ought to be looking at. It's racist in itself to have this debate." DeLay add that "in my mind" Sotomayor is not qualified for a seat at the Supreme Court. "She's an activist," he said. "She's a judicial activist, and I've worked my entire career against judicial activism. And if Obama -- Obama couldn't have appointed a more activist judge, and, therefore, I don't think she's qualified. I don't want somebody writing law from the bench." Most conservatives oppose what they call "judicial activism," which they define as enacting legislation through rulings, although it generally refers to reaching beyond the U.S. Constitution to bring rulings in line with contemporary values. Many support a "strict constructionist" judicial philosophy that requires judges to apply the text of the Constitution as written to the matters at hand, although there are differences of opinion about what the term actually means, even among conservatives. The true opposite of judicial activism, however, is not strict constructionism, but rather judicial restraint, which urges judges to defer to Congress whenever possible. | Republicans kept pressure on Obama's Supreme Court pick, calling her "activist" White House sought to soften remarks Sotomayor made in 2001 . White House spokesman slams ex-congressman's comparison of La Raza to KKK . Judge's remarks drew charges of racism from numerous high-profile conservatives . | d15d3ceb880318e213b9de43cd9e0aa86e86ce05 |
Forecasters have issued an ice warning for Britain's roads as an Arctic blast is set to send temperatures plummeting and up to four inches of snow in parts of Scotland this weekend. The blast will sweep in from northern Europe late on Sunday but Scotland's mountains, upland areas of northern England and the Welsh mountains will bear the brunt of the weather, which could last well into next week. A yellow 'be aware' Met Office warning for ice for the southwest of England and Wales is currently in place, advising road users that showers will continue to affect the area tonight, with further warnings issued for snow in Scotland on Sunday. Blizzards and icy roads will make driving conditions treacherous in snow-hit areas with widespread frost expected as temperatures continue to plummet as low as -5 in rural areas tomorrow. Scroll down for video . Scotland and northern England will bear the brunt of the bad weather. Pictured, a black Shetland pony gallops across a snow-covered field at Inchbae in Invernesshire, Scotland, today . Several centimetres of snow are expected to hit the Scottish mountains, and this morning, the skies were cloudy as the sun rose over the Cairngorm Mountains in the eastern Highlands of Scotland . Ice weather warnings have been issued for Scotland and Northern Ireland on Friday (left) while weather warnings of snow have been put in place for western Scotland on Sunday (centre) and Monday (right). The Met Office has warned of travel disruption for commuters on Monday . As road temperatures continue to fall, ice may form where surfaces are left wet or damp. It warned: 'Icy stretches may form on untreated surfaces on Friday evening and overnight into Saturday morning. The public should be aware of the potential for difficult driving conditions.' Cold air will move across the UK on Sunday, with frequent showers expected in parts of west Scotland in particular, said the Met Office. Snowy showers will fall above 200m with a mixture of hail and sleet as well at lower levels. Above 400m, Scotland's mountainous areas could see more than four inches of snow. Today, the first snow of the season fell over the the northern mountain ranges of the Lake District and in the Highlands of Scotland. The snow descended upon the peaks of Helvellyn, Belncathra and Skiddaw this morning, heralding the start of winter weeks after the first dustings . usually appear. This year's mild winter has delayed snow fall by around a month, with temperatures only just cold enough to allow it to stick. A Met office spokesperson said: 'Temperatures plummeted to around one degrees Celsius in Keswick, Cumbria, last night which is cold enough to see . snow. 'The temperature drops by one degree for every 100 metres of altitude, so it will have been even colder at the top of the mountains. 'This is the first snow of the season. We normally see sleet and snow in November, but not this year.' In Scotland, scrapers and ploughs came out as heavy snow this morning blanketed Inchbae in Invernesshire. Heavy snowfall blanketed the Highlands of Scotland this morning. Pictured, traffic on the A885 Inverness to Ullapool . Sandy Grant clears snow from his car in Inchbae in Scotland, which saw heavy snow this morning . A snowplough on the A835 at Aultguish grits the road surface after a period of heavy snowfall in Scotland this morning . Blizzards and icy roads will make driving conditions treacherous in snow-hit areas, especially northern England and Scotland. Pictured, a snowplough on the A835 at Aultguish . Rachel Vince, senior forecaster at MeteoGroup, said: 'Scotland and Northern Ireland will see a mixture of sunshine and showers tomorrow. 'These showers do look like becoming hail and sleet showers in places, with snow in the mountains.' The Met Office currently has a weather warning for ice in place for Scotland and Northern Ireland for tomorrow morning. Further weather warnings of snow are in place for western Scotland for Sunday and Monday. Mark Wilson, a meteorologist at the Met Office, said travellers should be careful of ice tomorrow morning, with a night of rain and clear skies potentially leading to dangerous driving conditions. He said tomorrow would be largely cloudy across the UK, although some sunny spells could be expected. Temperatures are expected to drop again tomorrow night, with the mercury plummeting to as low as -5C in some rural parts. Sprinkles of snow can be seen on this black Shetland pony in a field blanketed with snow in Inchbae, Scotland . Pictured today, the first snow of winter in England fell across the Lake District, near Keswick, during heavy showers this afternoon . Gloomy skies cover the Lake District, near Keswick, after the first signs of snow appeared over the mountains this afternoon . Temperatures are expected to drop again tomorrow night, but clear skies were pictured above a mountain range in the Lake District today . Hikers brace the weather in the Lake District, near Keswick, which saw snow fall during a heavy shower this afternoon . Walkers in the Lake District wander the heights of the Cumbrian fells today as the first snowfalls in England grace the peaks in North West England . A gritter spreads road salt on the A66 underneath a snow-capped Blencathra following the first sprinkling of snow today . A mixture of sunshine and showers are expected over the weekend. Pictured, the sunrise at the Wimbleball Lake in Somerset today . Forecasters warned a bitter Arctic blast will sweep in from northern Europe late on Sunday. Pictured, Lake Wimbleball in Somerset today . The Met Office warned travellers to be careful of ice tomorrow morning, with a night of rain and clear skies potentially leading to dangerous driving conditions. Pictured, clear blue and purple skies in Somerset's Wimbleball Lake today . Mr Wilson said the forecast for Saturday looked slightly better, with largely dry, sunny spells and a slight increase in temperatures. However, another band of rain is set to sweep across the country on Saturday night and temperatures are again set to plummet to below zero. He said the colder temperatures and increased rainfall meant there was a 'more significant possibility' of snow falling on Sunday night. He said accumulations of snowfall were predicted to be between 10cm and 20cm in western Scotland, over high ground, while up to 10cm could fall across the rest of Britain. Ms Vince agreed there could be a possibility of snow on Sunday and added: 'The Scottish mountains could see several centimetres (of snow) by the end of the weekend.' The Met Office's weather warnings in place for tomorrow, Sunday and Monday warn of 'widespread icy patches' and the risk of ice on untreated surfaces following overnight rain. Forecasters warned of travel disruption due to the adverse weather conditions and added: 'Accumulating snow may lead to travel disruption through the region. 'The public should be aware of the potential for disruption to travel on Sunday and into Monday morning.' The sun begins its descent this afternoon, pictured in Potterton, Aberdeenshire behind a row of leafless tress on another cold but sunny day in the north of Scotland . | Snow forecast for Scottish mountains tomorrow, with parts of England potentially seeing snow by end of weekend . Temperatures set to drop to -4C in some parts of the country tonight, and as low as -5C in rural parts tomorrow . Ice weather warnings in place for tonight and snow warnings issued by Met Office for Scotland on Sunday . First snow of winter fell over Inchbae in Scotland this morning and over the northern mountain ranges of the Lake District, near Keswick, this afternoon . | ecabe48b7c310dc0ee4b34196c6576a0c7520983 |
(CNN) -- World Cup CEO Danny Jordaan has said South Africa is ready for the start of the 2010 World Cup which begins on 11 June, as the Australian national team became the first participating side to arrive in the host country. The Socceroos landed in Johannesburg on Wednesday evening, where they will train for their opening group match of the World Cup against Germany on 13 June. "We are pleased to welcome Australia as the first team to arrive in our country. We all know that the stadiums are all ready, everything is in place and now the teams are finally here," Jordaan told the official FIFA Web site. "More importantly though, our people are ready. From now, we have to concentrate on the kickoff match in a few days' time." Wednesday also saw the official handover of the brand-new Cape Town Stadium -- which reportedly cost $350 million to build -- in the presence of FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke. Another 90,000 World Cup tickets will go on sale to the public on Friday morning -- including tickets for the opening games, semifinals and final. FIFA have also said that there are approximately 160,000 tickets -- out of the total 2.88 million available -- which remain unsold. Five-time World Cup winners Brazil joined Australia in South Africa on Thursday -- their opening match against North Korea will take place on 15 June at Johannesburg's Ellis Park Stadium. "I am very impressed by the Brazilian team," the chairman of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee South Africa, Irvin Khoza told the FIFA Web site. "The arrival of Brazil gives great confidence to all South Africans that this World Cup is really happening." Meanwhile, the host nation registered a morale-boosting 2-1 victory over Colombia in Johannesburg on Thursday night, with all three goals coming from the penalty spot. Midfielder Teko Modise put Bafana Bafana ahead in the 18th minute in front of a crowd of 75,000 in the first international match at the new Soccer City stadium, though he was lucky to have a second attempt after the referee ruled that goalkeeper David Ospina moved too early before saving his first effort. Giovanni Moreno leveled three minutes later for Colombia, who did not qualify for the World Cup, with a spot-kick after Adrian Ramos was fouled. Striker Katlego Mphela's 58th-minute winner left South Africa unbeaten in nine matches since Carlos Alberto Parreira returned for his second spell as coach. Parreira's team continue their preparations against Guatemala on Monday before a June 5 clash with fellow finalists Denmark, who won 2-0 at home to Senegal on Thursday. Earlier, Honduras drew 2-2 with Belarus in Austria, while Chile beat Zambia 3-0 with two goals from Italy-based striker Alexis Sanchez and fellow South American qualifiers Uruguay crushed Israel 4-1 after a late double from substitute Sebastien Abreu. | Australia is first football team to arrive in South Africa ahead of the World Cup . The Socceroos were the first team to qualify and will play Germany in their first match . Five-time winners Brazil also arrived in South Africa on Thursday . 90,000 extra World Cup tickets will go on sale on Friday morning . | eaf1ebdbf9b9d597c70600321fde3d2253b6583c |
(CNN) -- A South Korean-flagged fishing vessel has become stranded in Antarctic waters with about 90 crew members on board, the Chilean Navy said. The ship, the Kwang Ja Ho, hit the ocean floor Monday about 450 meters from the coast, the navy said in a statement. The navy said it is providing support while it waits for the stranded ship's owner to coordinate a rescue plan. The crew members on board the grounded ship seem to be in good health, according to the navy's statement. In December, a Russian-flagged research vessel, the MV Akadmik Shokalskiy, made international headlines when it got trapped in unusually deep ice near Antarctica. The passengers on board that ship -- including scientists, journalists and tourists -- were eventually airlifted onto another ship that took them to an Australian port. | The fishing vessel struck the ocean floor about 450 meters from the coast . The Chilean Navy says it's providing support to the stranded ship . The roughly 90 crew members on board are in good health, it says . | e2cee52fd4bfa262454ee9365c6305007588b4fa |
Nasa has spotted the ghostly glow of ancient galaxies that were ripped apart by gravity. The event happened four billion light-years away inside an immense collection of 500 other galaxies. And the remarkable data suggests as many as six such structures were torn up over a period of six billion years. Scientists at Nasa in California have spotted evidence of galaxy destruction in massive galaxy cluster Abell 2744, seen here. Total starlight from the cluster has been coloured blue, with the dispersed light shown in dark blue. The light comes from 'dead' galaxies town apart at the centre of this cluster . The finding was made by Nasa's Hubble Space Telescope in the Abell 2744 galaxy cluster, nicknamed Pandora's Cluster. It found that scattered stars from the event were no longer bound to any one galaxy, and drift freely between galaxies in the cluster. By observing the light from the orphaned stars, Hubble astronomers assembled forensic evidence that suggests as many as six galaxies were torn to pieces inside the cluster. The doomed galaxies would have been pulled apart like 'taffy' according to Nasa if they plunged through the centre of the galaxy cluster where gravitational tidal forces are strongest. Hubble spotted light that came from 'dead' galaxies. The galaxies were torn apart long ago by the cluster's gravitational forces, and their stars were scattered into 'intracluster' space - the space between the galaxies. These orphaned stars roam the cluster, without being gravitationally tethered to any single galaxy. Because these extremely faint stars are brightest at near-infrared wavelengths of light, this type of observation could only be accomplished with Hubble's infrared sensitivity to extraordinarily dim light . The intracluster light was detected as part of the Frontier Fields program, an ambitious three-year effort, begun in 2013, that teams Hubble with NASA's other Great Observatories - the Spitzer Space Telescope and the Chandra X-ray Observatory - to probe the early universe by studying large galaxy clusters. Astronomers have long hypothesised that the light from scattered stars should be detectable after such galaxies are disassembled. However, the predicted glow of stars inside such a cluster was very faint and was therefore a challenge to identify. 'The Hubble data revealing the ghost light are important steps forward in understanding the evolution of galaxy clusters,' said Dr Ignacio Trujillo of The Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC), Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain. 'It is also amazingly beautiful in that we found the telltale glow by utilizing Hubble's unique capabilities.' The team estimates that the combined light of about 200 billion outcast stars contributes approximately 10 per cent of the cluster's brightness. 'The results are in good agreement with what has been predicted to happen inside massive galaxy clusters,' said Dr Mireia Montes of the IAC, lead author of the paper published the Astrophysical Journal. Hubble measurements determined that the phantom stars are rich in heavier elements like oxygen, carbon, and nitrogen. This means the scattered stars must be second or third-generation stars enriched with the elements forged in the hearts of the universe's first-generation stars. The finding was made by Nasa's Hubble Space Telescope (shown) in the Abell 2744 galaxy cluster, nicknamed Pandora's Cluster. It found that scattered stars from the event were no longer bound to any one galaxy, and drift freely between galaxies in the cluster . Weighing more than four trillion solar masses, Abell 2744 is a target in the Frontier Fields program. This ambitious three-year effort teams Hubble and Nasa's other Great Observatories to look at select massive galaxy clusters to help astronomers probe the remote universe. Earlier this month Abell 2744 was used to spotted one of the faintest and most distant galaxies ever seen in the universe. Galaxy clusters like this one are so massive that their gravity deflects light passing through them, magnifying, brightening, and distorting light in a phenomenon called gravitational lensing. Astronomers exploit this property of space to use the clusters as a zoom lens to magnify the images of far-more-distant galaxies that otherwise would be too faint to be seen. | Scientists at Nasa in California have spotted evidence of galaxy destruction . Using the Hubble Space Telescope they saw the glow of orphaned stars . These were once inside galaxies but the structures were ripped apart like 'taffy' by a galaxy cluster over six billion years . As many as six galaxies may have been torn apart at the heart of the cluster . Here gravity is strong enough to cause these dramatic effects . | 7556027f742ee5d238ccb1a07a432b7b84a6ceaa |
By . Steve Doughty . PUBLISHED: . 13:36 EST, 18 June 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 16:11 EST, 19 June 2013 . Girl Guides will no longer pledge their loyalty to God and country under radical changes revealed yesterday. Youngsters joining the Guides and Brownies will instead promise ‘to be true to myself’ and ‘serve my community’. The change ends more than a century of tradition and has caused an outcry from the Church of England and other religious groups. New pledge: Youngsters joining the Guides and Brownies will promise 'to be true to myself' and 'serve my community' Tradition: Although members have been required to make a pledge to God since its inception in 1910, the phrase 'and my country' has been included only since 1994 . Progression: Girlguiding has been trying to set a new direction for the movement over the past two years . Andrea Minichiello Williams of . Christian Concern, herself a former Brownie, said: ‘This is a sad day. It runs against the tradition and history of the Guide movement, which . was rooted in Christian values. The change comes just a fortnight after a uniformed Guide leader took part in the service marking the 60th anniversary of the Queen's Coronation . ‘Now the promise sounds like a . self-help manual.’ But Chief Guide Gill Slocombe insisted the previous . oath had been ‘confusing’ about belief and ‘discouraged some girls and . volunteers from joining us’. The promise has been changed 11 times in the organisation’s history. Although members have been required . to make a pledge to God since its inception in 1910, the phrase ‘and my . country’ has been included only since 1994. The latest change comes just a . fortnight after a uniformed Guide leader took part in the service . marking the 60th anniversary of the Queen’s Coronation. The Reverend Jenny Pathmarajah, from . Taverham in Norfolk, helped carry the Coronation oil to the altar of . Westminster Abbey and handed the flagon to Archbishop Justin Welby. She said before the service: ‘Her . Majesty wanted someone who was a Queen’s Guide because she was one . herself. She also wanted someone of faith.’ Originally named after a frontier . regiment in British India, Girlguiding, as the organisation is now . known, has recently tried to steer a more modern course. Last year it hired as chief executive Julia Bentley, former head of an abortion and contraception group. Miss Bentley said when appointed that . Guiding ‘is not about itchy brown uniforms and sewing and baking. It is . a modern, contemporary, vibrant organisation. 'Guides are more likely to be . investigating a muddy ravine, going overseas to help on an Aids . programme, or going to one of our pop concerts.’ | Leaders said different words were needed so all girls can be included . Members have been required to make a pledge to God since 1910 . Church of England appealed to the Guides to keep promise to God . | fd38a96deeefc9b4a8dc2bb5cd828ee3907752b7 |
(CNN)As a proud pro-Israel American, I am grateful that an Israeli prime minister has been invited to address Congress for a third time -- a high honor shared only by Sir Winston Churchill. Yet in the middle of an Israeli election and with a congressional battle over Iran sanctions looming, sometimes an invitation is more political gamesmanship than diplomatic honor. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and House Speaker John Boehner's latest gambit -- arranging an address to a joint session of Congress by the Prime Minister just two weeks before the Israeli election -- is severely taxing our special relationship. With mixed emotions, I find myself empathizing with the Jewish leader who told Israeli columnist Chemi Shalev: "I was literally sick to my stomach when I heard about it." White House spokesman Josh Earnest diplomatically called the invitation "a departure from protocol," and even staunch pro-Israel advocate and Anti-Defamation League head Abe Foxman termed it "ill-advised." Sadly, this invitation is glaring evidence that Israel is becoming a partisan football, a wedge issue cynically manipulated to grab headlines and seek political gain. We saw this dynamic play out in the 2012 presidential race when Mitt Romney's campaign attempted to peel off Jewish voters from President Obama by insinuating that Obama had thrown Israel "under the bus." It didn't work then, though the tactic will likely rear its ugly head again in the next race for the White House. And it's not likely to work now for Boehner, who is essentially enlisting the Israeli leader to help him try to deal the President of the United States a political blow by derailing nuclear negotiations with Iran through legislating new sanctions. Unfortunately, although the Republican Party is clearly hoping to hobble the current president's agenda, the real impact of the speaker's political stunt is likely to be a further erosion of the bipartisan nature of support for Israel, at a time when Israel increasingly needs America's backing as a bulwark against its growing international isolation. Secretary of State John Kerry held a lengthy meeting with Israel's ambassador to the United States on Tuesday, a day before the Washington visit was announced, a senior administration official told CNN. The Israeli government was being accused of assassinating an Iranian general on the Israel-Syria border, and the White House was, according to eminent Israeli journalist Nahum Barnea, exerting significant effort in an attempt to de-escalate the situation with Iran. Yet in an example of what Barnea describes as "ingratitude of the ugliest kind," the planned visit was not mentioned. And when Netanyahu arrives in March, he and Kerry will not meet. Americans and Israelis who care about the relationship between the two countries must work quickly to prevent relations from sinking any lower. While our militaries are still coordinating as closely as ever, and our special relationship is ultimately built on more than the chemistry between two leaders, key long-term interests of both countries hang in the balance. Erosion of trust between our governments will damage our ability to work together to defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, prevent a nuclear-armed Iran and establish a Palestinian state alongside Israel in peace and security. Boehner would be wise to postpone his invitation until later this spring, when the new Israeli government has been formed and the next prime minister has a fresh mandate from the Israeli people. And whoever that next leader is should make Washington his (or her) first visit, and work with the President to confront the serious challenges that our two countries face. | Invitation to Benjmain Netanyahu to speak to Congress has caused controversy . Jeremy Ben-Ami: Israel is becoming partisan football in U.S. | a86a8a77eb0e185a9f3e81f7c7835b8ebb0967c4 |
The fate of Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl now rests with a top US general in North Carolina who will decide if the soldier should be charged with desertion after he left his Afghanistan post in 2009 and was captured by the Taliban. The charge of desertion during wartime carries a maximum penalty of death. But the Army, which referred the case to Gen. Mark Milley, head of U.S. Army Forces Command at Fort Bragg, N.C., said he has a range of options. Milley could decide not to charge Bergdahl, recommend administrative action, or convene a court martial on more serious offenses, such as desertion or absent without leave (AWOL). The fate of Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl now rests with a top U.S. general in North Carolina who will decide if the soldier should be charged with desertion after he left his Afghanistan post in 2009 and was captured by the Taliban . The investigation into Bergdahl's disappearance on June 30, 2009, is complete and senior Pentagon and Army leaders got briefed on the results last week. Details about the report's conclusion have not been released. Bergdahl reportedly walked away from his unit after expressing misgivings about the U.S. military's role — as well as his own — in Afghanistan. He was captured by the Taliban and held by members of the Haqqani network, an insurgent group tied to the Taliban that operates both in Pakistan and Afghanistan. On May 31, Bergdahl was handed over to U.S. special forces in Afghanistan as part of an exchange for five top Taliban commanders who were imprisoned at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. After spending about two weeks recuperating at a U.S. military hospital in Germany, Bergdahl was sent to Brooke Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston in Texas on June 13. He is now doing administrative duties at the base, awaiting the conclusion of the case. Maj. Gen. Kenneth R. Dahl was tasked to conduct an exhaustive investigation into the matter, and spent months interviewing unit members and commanders, and meeting with Bergdahl and his attorney, Eugene Fidell, a military justice expert who is also a visiting lecturer at Yale Law School. He submitted his report in mid-October, setting off a lengthy legal review on his report and how the Army can proceed legally in the case. Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl is pictured here in an undated photo provided to reporters by the Army. If Bergdahl is cleared of desertion charges, he'll receive $200,000 in back pay and stands to gain another $150,000 in compensation for his ordeal . Army officials briefed Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel on Friday on the findings of Dahl's investigation. Navy. Rear Adm. John Kirby said Monday that Hagel is 'confident that Army leadership will use the information gleaned from the investigation to make the most appropriate decisions with respect to Sgt. Bergdahl.' While hundreds of service members have gone absent without leave (AWOL) since the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan began, many disappear for only a short time and eventually return. Those cases are usually are settled through non-judicial punishments such as being assigned additional duties, getting their pay docked or other administrative actions. A charge of AWOL suggests that the service member left a post or did not arrive for duty when required, but intended to return. A charge of desertion is when a service member leaves and has no intention of ever returning. Punishment for desertion in peacetime can range from life in prison to a dishonorable discharge. Deserting a post in a warzone during a time of combat is a much more serious offense, and therefore can carry the maximum punishment of death. Impending report: The Pentagon has been briefed on a report into the disappearance of army Sgt Bowe Bergdahl who was freed from captivity in May after Obama traded him for five Taliban commanders . Any final disposition of the case will determine what type of discharge Bergdahl receives -- honorable or something less than honorable -- and also whether he will get as much as $300,000 in back pay and other benefits, including continued health care. An initial U.S. military investigation in 2009 concluded that Bergdahl deliberately walked away, based on evidence available at the time. Since his release, some former soldiers who served with him have labeled him a deserter and said he should be held accountable for leaving his post. Others have suggested that troops were put in danger, and even killed, as they tried to find Bergdahl. But there are also those who contend that even if Bergdahl deliberately walked away, his five years in captivity were more than enough punishment for the soldier. | The charge of desertion during wartime carries a maximum penalty of death . The Army, which referred the case to Gen. Mark Milley, head of U.S. Army Forces Command at Fort Bragg, N.C., said he has a range of options . He was captured by the Taliban and held by members of the Haqqani network, an insurgent group tied to the Taliban that operates both in Pakistan and Afghanistan . | 9d6ff7760b13107bde210dd0367977b9ad1f7452 |
A conman who wore a Royal Marines uniform to trick people into donating cash for Help for Heroes has been jailed for three-and-a-half years. Liam O'Brien, 32, stood outside train stations and other public places with a red Help for Heroes bucket. He claimed he was a serving sergeant in the special forces who had been given authorisation by the charity to collect the much-needed money. Liam O'Brien (pictured right posing in a Royal Marines uniform) was sentenced to prison for the heartless scam . But a court heard that O'Brien was a convicted fraudster with no military links who pocketed the money himself - including more than £500 in a single day. He was caught when he tried to board a train, again in full uniform, using a fake military free travel pass and a suspicious inspector noted his details. When police searched his home they found five military ID cards in bogus names. A CV claiming to list military experience and a letter of recommendation from Brigadier General John Quintas of the Air Force were also found. They also discovered a folder of credit card details belonging to guests at a hotel where O'Brien had worked. He was jailed for three and a half years yesterday after admitting 12 counts of fraud. Swindon Crown Court heard he had a lengthy list of previous convictions beginning when he was 17, which included numerous charges of fraud using the military. Judge Peter Blair QC told him: 'The public standing of a charity and the trust of a public in a charity is a very high and important standard that needs to be maintained. 'By behaving in this fashion you have risked a very serious goodwill damage to that charity and I regard that as extremely heinous.' He added: 'These sentences will get longer and longer if you keep offending in this way. 'I hope in time you reflect on this behaviour and you will find better things to do with your time when you are released.' The court heard that O'Brien, of Chippenham, Wiltshire, started his scam just days after being released from prison in December 2013 following an 18 month sentence for fraud. He applied to collect for Help for Heroes with the intention of conning the public again. O'Brien was sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison when he appeared at Swindon Crown Court (pictured) today . In April last year he tried to board a train in Chippenham wearing a military uniform, including the coveted green Royal Marines beret, and showed a ticket collector a letter from the Department of Transport giving him free travel. Before police were able to arrest him he turned up at the same station a month later, again in uniform, and approached a different inspector. The inspector followed him on board where he noticed O'Brien quickly changed out of his clothes. Unaware of the ongoing investigation into his background, O'Brien appeared outside London's Victoria Station in October purporting to collect for Help for Heroes. Tessa Hingston, prosecuting, told the court: 'The defendant was wearing a full military sergeant's uniform and was using a red Help for Heroes bucket. 'He was challenged and a witness took a picture of his ID. 'The charity said O'Brien had applied to be a collector in December 2013 but had the authorisation rescinded in Februrary because he made no donations and didn't return any merchandise, including a so-called 'shop in a box' worth £250. 'On November 4, the defendant was seen boarding a train at Bath Spa where a police officer recognised him. 'He was in possession of two Help for Heroes buckets, one of which he had collected £513 in small change. 'Again he was wearing the uniform of a Royal Marine Sergeant and had two fake ID cards and a letter purporting to be from Help for Heroes authorising him to collect.' Tony Bignall, defending, said: 'A large extent of why he was detected is because he went back to the scene of the original crime. 'You would have thought having had his details photographed he would have got away from there, but there seemed to be - if not a death wish - then no great attempt to conceal his actions. 'There is no hint of self pity and he doesn't ask anyone to give him any either.' | Liam O'Brien stood outside stations collecting money for Help for Heroes . Dressed in a Royal Marines uniform, he pretended to be a serving sergeant . But he was actually a fraudster pocketing up to £500 a day in the scam . Police discovered a CV claiming to list military experience at his home . There was also a false letter of recommendation from a Brigadier General . O'Brien, 32, started his scam just days after being released from prison . He was sentenced at Swindon Crown Court to three-and-a-half years jail . | cac77bc3deb426121673aba64427fd555b7301e9 |
North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un executed his uncle by having him stripped naked and eaten alive by starving dogs while he watched, a report claimed yesterday. Jang Song-Thaek was said to have been thrown into a cage with his five closest aides, after which 120 hounds which had been starved for three days were released, eating the men until there was nothing left. The horrifying details emerged in a report in Singapore’s Straits Times newspaper, which said the gruesome act was known as ‘quan jue’, or ‘execution by dogs’. Brutal: Jang Song-Thaek, in blue suit and handcuffs being escorted in court on December 12, was executed by wild dogs, according to reports coming from China . In previous executions, political . prisoners were killed by firing squads with machine guns, although one . aide was tied to a post and a mortar round was fired at him. The . report said the ‘quan jue’ lasted an hour, and Kim was said to have . watched the stomach-churning ‘show’ along with 300 senior officials. Analysts . said the tyrant had probably invited the officials to the death . ceremony as a warning that they should not step out of line and remain . faithful not only to him but also to the Stalinist regime. Kim had . described his 67-year-old uncle – who was married to his father’s sister . – as a traitor, a womaniser and a ‘despicable human scum – worse than a . dog’. It was previously thought he had been executed by firing squad. Family: Kim Jong-Un (right) applauds at a show as his uncle, Jang Song-Thaek (left), looks on . Vicious: Dictator Kim Jong-Un, pictured, shocked the world when he accused his 'scum' uncle of treachery and had him executed . Frenzied: Jang Song Thaek was fed to a pack of 120 dogs which had been starved for three days, it was claimed. (Stock picture) The . Singapore paper was quoting China’s official newspaper, Wen Wei Po, . which was published in Hong Kong on December 12, although details . emerged only yesterday. The . savage death of Kim’s uncle sent shockwaves through the authoritarian . state, showing no one was safe – even family members. Kim’s 19-year-old . nephew fled his university campus in Paris after the execution and has . gone into hiding. North Korean justice: The tribunal in the capital Pyongyang which apparently ordered Jang Song Thaek's death . Family: Shown with his powerful nephew during a military parade in February last year, Jang Song Thaek (left) was once the second most powerful man in North Korea. Some say he was seen as a threat . The . tyrant’s ruthless streak was documented last year when it was claimed he . had a former lover executed because she appeared in a porn film. South . Korean newspapers said singer Hyon Song-wol and 11 others were arrested . in August for violating North Korea’s laws against pornography and were . executed, possibly by firing squad, three days later. The . condemned, all members of the performing groups Unhasu Orchestra and . Wangjaesan Light Music Band, were accused of making videos of . themselves having sex and selling the videos for distribution in China. Other band members as well as the families of the victims were made to . watch the mass execution. Revelations: Kim Jong-un used his New Year's speech to defend the recent execution for treason of Jang Song-thaek, Kim's uncle and North Korean second most powerful man of the past decades . Authoritarian: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (seventh from the right) visits the mausoleum of his father Kim Jong-il, late North Korean leader, at Kumsusan Palace of the Sun in Pyongyang on New Year's Day . The . Straits Times said the report of the ‘quan jue’ vividly depicted the . brutality of the young North Korean leader and the fact that it appeared . in a Beijing-controlled newspaper showed that China no longer cared . about its relations with the Kim regime. Two . days after the initial newspaper report, The Global Times, which is . associated with the People’s Daily, a Chinese Communist Party outlet, . published an editorial saying that the abrupt political change in North . Korea epitomised the backwardness of the country’s political system. And . it warned its own government not to cosy up to North Korea any longer, . claiming that the majority of the Chinese people were ‘disgusted’ with . the Kim regime. Writing in . the Straits Times, analyst Ching Cheong said the story, along with the . stern editorial, provided a measure of the extent of Beijing’s loathing. ‘In purging a top official . known for his close ties with Beijing in such a brutal manner, . Pyongyang (the North Korean capital) did not hide its antagonism towards . China,’ he wrote. Kim Jong-Un is no stranger to ordering brutal crackdowns on anyone even suspected of posing a political threat - no matter how close the relationship. The dictator had his former lover singer Hyon Song-wol, pictured right, executed by machine gun amid claims that she had been appearing in pornographic videos. Hyon was among a dozen singers, musicians and dancers from two pop groups who were machine-gunned to death on August 20, last year. The savage death of Kim's uncle sent shock waves through the authoritarian state, showing no one was safe - even family members. Kim's teenage nephew fled to a university campus in Paris after the execution of Jang Song-Thaek. The 19-year-old's name was removed from the postbox at prestigious social science university Sciences-Po, which saw South Korean media report that he was hiding for fear of his safety. Fears also mounted last month that Kim's wife Ri Sol-Ju had fallen out of favour with the tempestuous leader. She had not been seen publicly for weeks and was not present in an official photograph, provoking speculation . But these were largely eased when a video was released showing her with Kim Jong-Un at a memorial service to mark the second anniversary of his father's death. | A pack of 120 starving dogs were set on Jang Song Thaek and five aides . Kim Jong-Un and 300 officials watched horrific execution . Punishment, called 'quan jue', or execution by dogs, lasted an hour . Uncle was accused of treachery and corruption by the brutal regime . Kim has carried out a 'massive purge' of threats to consolidate his grip . | acd10e606a622389b0437c66cdcde85e58d644a0 |
Kate Moss, who celebrated her 40th birthday this year, has been chosen to launch the brand's new 'Jackie Soft' bag, inspired and named after the iconic Jackie Kennedy Onassis. Aiming to convey Gucci's jet-set style, the fast paced film sees Kate as a glamorous celebrity hounded by the world's media. Set to the dynamic 'A Lizard State', performed by King Krule, the short film is shot from the perspective of a paparazzi pursuing Moss around Rome. Scroll down for video . Kate was chosen to launch the brand's new 'Jackie Soft' bag, inspired and named after the iconic Jackie Kennedy Onassis . The film sees Kate pursued by an unseen photographer who captures her in hundreds of clandestine shots . Set to the dynamic 'A Lizard State', performed by King Krule, the short film is shot from the perspective of a paparazzi pursuing Moss around Rome . As her lover, played by fellow model Clement Chabernaud attempts to protect her from the camera, we hear the shutter clicking repeatedly, capturing Kate in hundreds of clandestine split second pictures. As well as prominently showing off the Jackie tote, wearing five different styles of the bag, the film also displays numerous chic outfits from the latest collection from the design house. From a leopard print suede trench to a full fur jacket slung nonchalantly over a tailored blue suit or worn over a silk chestnut blouse, and a very Jackie Kennedy inspired looking double--breasted baby pink woolen coat, Kate wears each look with the effortless cool she has become so renowned for. One of the numerous looks Kate sports in the film is a shaggy fur coat worn over a silk collared blouse . Hidden behind a pair of oversized sunglasses, Kate desperately tries to evade the unseen photographer chasing her . Helped by her dashing companion, Kate is chased by the snapper through Rome . Hidden behind a pair of over-sized sunglasses, Kate desperately tries to evade the unseen photographer chasing her. Helped by her dashing companion, Kate is followed until finally she turns to face the snapper, removing her shades to look directly into his lens. The film ends with the camera panning out over a montage of photographs of Kate, pinned on the wall of the obsessed paparazzi. The end of the film sees Kate pause and turn to face the photographer, finally removing her sunglasses . The film ends with the camera panning out over a montage of photographs of Kate, pinned on the wall of the obsessed paparazzi . Friday Giannini, creative director of Gucci, said of the film: 'I have always admired Kate — she is an icon of today. A trendsetter, an independent woman and absolutely contemporary. 'She embodies my fall-winter collection as a sophisticated woman who dresses to please herself rather than others.' The Jackie bag, which comes in 10 different variations, retails at £1,980. | Kate chosen to launch Gucci's new 'Jackie Soft' tote bag . Bag inspired and named after the iconic Jackie Kennedy Onassis . In short film Kate play a star pursued by an unseen paparazzi . The Jackie bag, which comes in 10 different variations, retails at £1,980 . | f62b86df7e8722309af99bdb6ca97f1d0300eb15 |
By . Jaymi Mccann . PUBLISHED: . 03:23 EST, 25 July 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 06:22 EST, 25 July 2013 . Lance Armstrong has hit back after facing a lawsuit that claims he defrauded his sponsor, the US Postal Service. The cyclist said that they should have known he was doping, due to extensive media coverage. The lawsuit was filed by whistleblower, and fellow doper, Floyd Landis who also had his Tour de France title taken from him. Defence: Lance Armstrong's lawyers say that the USPS should have known about his doping . Under federal law Landis should be entitled to up to 25 per cent of the damages awarded in the suit.They are asking for $120million. Despite intense media speculation and an investigation into the cycling team in France, the US government renewed its sponsorship, argue Armstrong’s lawyers. They wrote: ‘Instead, the Postal Service renewed the Sponsorship Agreement and basked in the favorable publicity of its sponsorship,' reported Deadspin. Disgraced: Armstrong's lawyers claim that USPS reaped the rewards of their partnership . ‘It is now far too late for the government to revisit its choice to reap the benefits of sponsorship rather than investigate allegations of doping.’ Landis claims that Armstrong used false premises to obtain the government’s sponsorship money. Armstorng’s team of lawyers also claim that the suit has been filed after the statute of limitations has expired and that due to Landis’s own experiences with drugs, he shouldn’t be allowed damages. CBS wrote that Armstrong's council also said: ‘Although the government now pretends to be aggrieved by these allegations, its actions at the time are far more telling. ‘Did it immediately fire the Postal Service team? Did it suspend the team pending an investigation? … It did not.’ The motion added, ‘the government wanted a winner and all the publicity, exposure, and acclaim that goes along with being a sponsor. It got exactly what it bargained for.’ Armstrong was charged by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency with systematic cheating in June 2012. He was stripped of his Tour de France titles in October and severed official ties to Livestrong in November 2012. He admitted doping in a January 2013 television interview with celebrity host Oprah Winfrey. Armstrong has slowly begun to re-emerge in public since then. On Monday, he joined about 20,000 others in a segment of a bicycle ride across Iowa sponsored by the Des Moines Register newspaper. Confession: He admitted doping in a January 2013 television interview with celebrity host Oprah Winfrey . Denial: in 2005 Armstrong swore that he did not use drugs to win the Tour de France . 'People, in general, have been supportive,' he was quoted by the Register as saying of the reception he has received in Iowa. Asked about doping in cycling, he said: 'It wasn't a pretty time (in professional cycling). I didn't invent it and I didn't end it.' 'My bad for playing along,' he told the newspaper. | Armstrong's lawyers say USPS should have known he was doping . Lawsuit was brought by whisteleblower and fellow doper, Floyd Landis . Landis can claim damages under federal law . Lawyers say USPS reaped the rewards of the partnership . Also believe that the lawsuit was filed after statute of limitations was over and that Landis does not deserve any damages . | 4d5947c849ee792b73717354a6bc985454648efe |
A new computer games controller that could be mistaken for a real gun is set for release early next year. The Delta Six controller for video games like Call of Duty looks frighteningly similar to a genuine firearm, with its inventor claiming 'the only way to get more real is to enlist'. Aimed at adult gamers, the device is intended to give players of First-Person Shooting (FPS) games a more immersive experience than has been possible so far. Scroll down for video . A bit too realistic? The Delta Six video game controller than is modelled to look like a real gun . However, the imminent release of the hyper-realistic add-on is bound to raise fears that computer games encourage violent behaviour among the young. The hybrid controller incorporates all the controls of a standard joypad in a shell modelled on military grade assault weapons. 'The only way to get more real is to enlist': U.S. soldiers in Iraq carry Armalite M16 assault rifles, similar in appearance to the Delta Six controller . With . a built-in accelerometer that its makers say can be used in any game . without calibration, it aims like a real gun without the need for a . receiver on top of the user's television set. The controller also features a range of pressure switches, one of which can automatically switch the game to precision aiming mode by simply holding the device up to the user's cheek. Other functions include a faux recoil simulation that makes it judder like it's spitting lead from the muzzle, and a real-life style reloading function in the gadget's magazine. The device ships with a range of accessories that allow users to convert it from full-length sniper rifle to compact sub-machine gun, depending on their preferred style of play. The Delta Six is the brainchild of David Kotkin, who is well known in gaming circles for his Avenger joypad mod. He . said: 'For the first time a Call of Duty player will feel more immersed . in game-play and have more control over the game than ever before. The . only way to get more real is to enlist.' Mr . Kotkin's company says preliminary testing has shown that the Delta Six . is easier and faster to use than a standard controller for FPS-style . games. Features: . The controller, which is expected to retail for $89, can be adapted to a . range of configurations depending on the user's preferred style of play . 'This wins against a reg controller, even with and Avenger adapter on it,' the inventor said. 'We're more excited about Delta Six than any other project to date. 'The Wii, and the Move tried but could not make a fun and innovative motion control for FPS games. So we had to.' However, he adds: 'This is fun for adults, not for gamers younger than 21.' The Delta Six is expected to cost $89 (£55) when it launches early next year. | 'The only way to get more real is to enlist,' claims gadget's inventor . Device intended for FPS games like Call of Duty . | 3fd480ca17094df6df7e9612de8c244ff6100dd8 |
By . Dan Bloom . A man has been arrested tonight after a woman was found battered to death on a public footpath. Police launched a murder hunt this morning after the victim was found with severe head and body injuries near a housing estate in Colchester, Essex. A member of the public raised the alarm and the woman was treated by paramedics but was pronounced dead at the scene. Officers arrested a 52-year-old man this afternoon and he was being questioned tonight in connection with the death. Murder hunt: A woman has been found battered to death on a footpath on the outskirts of Colchester . Cordon: Paramedics attended the scene just after 10.40am but they were unable to save the victim . An Essex Police spokesman said: 'A 52-year-old man from the Colchester area was arrested this afternoon in connection with the investigation and is currently being interviewed by detectives.' The spokesman would not say what crime the man was suspected of committing. Police launched a search of the area using sniffer dogs and a helicopter with thermal imaging equipment. This afternoon a police cordon had been set up around the area as forensics officers began work. One local resident said: 'It’s a terrible thing to happen but it can be quite rough around here. 'I just hope they get to the bottom of what happened.' The woman was found on the Salary Brook Trail on the outskirts of Colchester. The footpath was cordoned off by police today. Death: The woman was found the Salary Brook Trail public path on the outskirts of Colchester, Essex . Probe: Police are appealing for anyone with information. It is the second brutal murder in the town since March . Officers from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate are investigating the death. Detective Chief Inspector Mark Hall said: 'We are carrying out house to house enquiries and are searching the area using the police helicopter and dog teams. 'I would ask anyone with any information about what happened to contact Essex Police.' It is not known if the murder is linked to the killing of James Attfield, pictured with his mother Julie Finch . Essex Police declined to confirm the woman's approximate age or whether anything more is known about her at this stage. It is thought officers know her identity. Officers held a press conference this afternoon to reassure the public they they are safe. They have instructed Essex County Council to leave street lights on overnight until further notice in the area near where the woman's body was found today. It comes after a policy of switching . off streetlights between midnight at 5am was introduced across Essex . last year to save energy. A . council spokesman said: 'We have a protocol within that where we work . with the police. Where they require us for whatever reason to leave the . lights on then that's what we do, and that's what's happened here.' It is not yet known whether the death could be linked to another brutal murder in a Colchester park three months ago. James . Attfield, a vulnerable 33-year-old who had brain damage, was stabbed . more than 100 times before being found in a park on the northern side of . the Essex town in the early hours of March 29. His case appeared on the BBC's Crimewatch and the charity Crimestoppers is offering a £5,000 reward for anyone who provides information that leads to a murder conviction in his case. An Essex Police spokesman said: 'We are not ruling anything in or out at this stage.' Anyone with any information is asked to . contact the Major Investigation Team on 01277 266869, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Forensics: Police set up a half-mile cordon around the area. The woman had severe head and body injuries . Appeal for calm: Street lights near the murder scene will be left on overnight to reassure residents . | Victim found at 10.40am today near a housing estate in Colchester, Essex . Another walker found the woman with severe injuries to head and body . Paramedics treated her at the scene but they were unable to save her . Police quizzing 52-year-old man from Colchester in connection with death . It is not known if death is linked to another murder in a Colchester park . Brain-damaged James Attfield, 33, was stabbed 100 times in March . | 4ebbd64771ca5bb71bf981570c11dd997550c36f |
Washington (CNN) -- There's good news for drivers hitting the road this Memorial Day weekend: Gas prices are falling. Regular unleaded dropped to a national average of $3.71 per gallon this week, 23 cents below an April high of $3.94, according to the federal government. But will less pain at the pump undercut GOP attacks against President Obama? The answer is unclear. Earlier this year, there was rampant speculation that national gas prices could top $5 or even $6 per gallon. Republicans seized on the issue, sensing new political vulnerability for the president. "American families and small businesses are continuing to struggle, and one of their big struggles these days is the rising price of gas," House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, said in February. "If the president's serious about working with (Republicans) to expand energy production in America and to deal with the rising oil prices, it's time for him to lay his cards on the table." In March, presumptive Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney called on Obama to fire the heads of the Energy Department, the Interior Department and the Environmental Protection Agency, blaming them for earlier price spikes. Cardona: How to take long holiday from high gas prices . Republicans also bitterly criticized Obama's decision last winter to temporarily block an extension of the controversial Keystone XL oil pipeline, which would stretch from Canada's tar sands to the Gulf of Mexico. GOP leaders call it a blown opportunity to create jobs and cut prices. Now, gas prices are trending down, but Republicans aren't yielding on the issue. House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, R-Virginia, spent Friday touring an offshore oil drilling platform in the Gulf, a not-too-subtle way of criticizing the administration's energy development policy. The House Oversight and Government Reform Committee is holding two hearings next week to keep up the drumbeat. One of the hearings, according to a committee news release, will "examine administration policies and regulations that hinder the production and use of oil, natural gas, and coal as energy sources." CNN on Friday asked Don Stewart, a spokesman for Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Kentucky, whether declining gas prices are blunting the GOP's political message. "We haven't stopped talking about it, because the need to solve the problem is still there," Stewart said. "This administration is hostile to domestic energy production. ... I don't think you'll find anyone out there who thinks that, even at $3.70 a gallon on average, that it's no longer something to work on." Top Democrats on Capitol Hill were skeptical of the GOP's ability to gain traction on the issue. "On gas prices, I would say ... that yes, (the GOP's) attempts to capitalize on gas prices have fizzled," said a senior Senate Democratic leadership aide who asked not to be identified. "But even before prices went down, I think the Republicans' attempts to exploit the issue was coming off as pure politics and thus not gaining much traction anyway." A CNN/ORC International survey from late March, when gas prices were still rising, showed serious public concern over the issue. Roughly one in five Americans called pump pain the most important issue facing the country; seven in 10 said higher gas prices had caused hardship for them. There were indications, however, that political fallout from rising gas prices was limited. The poll showed that most Americans blamed oil companies for the price increases, not the Obama administration. Congressional Republicans received almost as much blame as the White House, and foreign oil-producing countries got more blame than politicians of either party. "Republicans seemed to think they had a big weapon to use against Obama. Now, it's not so clear that they will," said CNN Polling Director Keating Holland. "Americans don't worry about gas prices as much as they worry about gas shortages. The energy crises of the 1970s that arguably had some effect on elections were really due to long lines and rationing. If those return for any reason, Obama would face a big problem. But if prices are high and gasoline is still easy to acquire, the public would probably not view that as a crisis." Oil industry experts argue that politicians, including the president, have a very limited ability to affect short term prices one way or the other. Tom Kloza, chief oil analyst for the Maryland-based Oil Price Information Service, said the recent price drop is due primarily to investors misreading the global oil market earlier this year, less recent focus on the nuclear standoff with Iran and Europe's economic woes. Policy changes such as increased domestic drilling wouldn't affect prices "one way or the other" right now, Kloza said. Changes to automobile mileage standards or Gulf drilling permits could affect prices in about five to 10 years, he estimated. "Nobody can take credit (for the short-term changes), and nobody can take blame," he said. CNN's Ted Barrett contributed to this report. | Gas prices have dropped 23 cents per gallon since peaking in April . It's unclear whether the drop will undermine GOP attacks against Obama's energy policy . Industry experts say politicians deserve little credit or blame for short-term price changes . | 33f508f48980f10e3788827fe90d634752ce0169 |
A committee of MPs has called on the Government to do more to stop citizens being duped by the 'copycat' sites which are charging for services (file picture) Motorists have been warned to be wary of copycat government websites which are charging users for services that are normally free. Unofficial websites which have been described as 'impersonators' have led to drivers paying extra for services such as applying for a driving test or driving licences or paying the congestion charge. A cross-party committee of MPs has now called on the Government to do more to stop citizens being duped by the 'copycat' sites. The Transport Select Committee said efforts were needed across Whitehall to tackle the problem, with search engines such as Google being alerted to problem websites. The committee's Labour chairwoman Louise Ellman said the Government 'must do more to warn motorists' about the misleading sites. The report looked into the work of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA). The AA told the committee it had seen an increase in complaints about 'impersonator websites' charging for services such as applying for a driving test or driving licences. The committee's report said that in written evidence to the committee, the motoring organisation recognised there was a case for services that added value such as 'checking services' or 'fast track services'. But it said the Government agencies appeared to co-exist with alternative, unofficial 'service providers'. The AA thought it 'almost immoral that (such sites) can ply a trade that basically tricks people'.' In the capital, Transport for London (TfL) had asked the DVLA to send letters to drivers who had used an unofficial website to pay the congestion charge. TfL is also consulting on a proposal that it should refuse to accept payments from copycat websites or other unauthorised third-parties, the report said. The committee noted that the problem goes beyond the Department for Transport, with the Government Digital Service (GDS) leading efforts to address the issue. The MPs heard that GDS tracks the activity of such sites and shares this information with Google, and other search engines, so they can identify and take action against 'websites that add little or no value to existing online Government services'. The National Trading Standards Board has also received an additional £120,000 in funding to 'clamp down on misleading websites'. The committee said the problems on the first day of the paperless car tax system, which descended into chaos with the DVLA website struggling with the demand, were an indication of the challenges facing the Government in moving services online. Unofficial websites have led to drivers paying extra for services such as applying for a driving test (file picture) Ms Ellman said: 'DVLA and DVSA are important for delivering essential services related to tax, licensing, testing, and vehicle safety. 'The Department for Transport must ensure that its current re-organisation programme for these agencies delivers high quality services that benefit everyone. 'The recent problems experienced by motorists when road tax renewal went online demonstrates the importance of responding to change, having clear communication with the public and an effective contingency plan to maintain confidence . 'We welcome greater information sharing across the motoring agencies and the expansion of online services that we found were well-liked by many customers. 'However, the motoring agencies must continue to meet the needs of those customers who can't access or use digital services. 'Linked to this the Government must do more to warn motorists about misleading 'copycat' websites that charge for services provided for free by motoring agencies. 'We also call on DVLA to do more to explain the legal basis for the sharing of personal data with organisations engaged in parking enforcement and the steps it takes to deal with private parking companies caught misusing personal data supplied by the motoring agencies.' Shadow transport secretary Mary Creagh said: 'David Cameron's incompetent Government has presided over digital tax disc chaos, delays to driving tests and rip-off copycat websites. 'Drivers deserve better, and this report is clear that ministers need to stamp out copycat websites and ensure motoring agencies have the tools they need to keep rogues off our roads.' | 'Impersonator' websites charging motorists for services that are usually free . Committee of MPs said Government should do more to stop 'copycat' sites . The Transport Select Committee said efforts were needed across Whitehall . Drivers duped into paying more when applying for driving licence or paying congestion charge . | 04fd31280c775d79c7bc08b70640599d6177b1a0 |
By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 10:54 EST, 23 July 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 08:16 EST, 24 July 2013 . Amanda Bynes ignited her trousers and screamed her dog had been burned after allegedly starting a fire on Monday night in a residential driveway. The 27-year-old actress was found by sheriff's deputies about 9pm standing near the fire burning at a house in Thousand Oaks, California, said Captain Don Aguilar of the Ventura County Sheriff's Department on Tuesday. The sheriff's department and fire department both responded to an emergency 911 call of a gasoline tank fire in a driveway, Aguilar said. Scroll below for video . Fire incident: Amanda Bynes, pictured in July in New York City, has been placed on an involuntary psychiatric hold after allegedly starting a fire in a residential driveway in Thousand Oaks, California . The homeowner said deputies later identified the woman as Amanda and said she had burned a part of her own clothing. 'It sounded like her clothing had been sort of singed,' the resident told TMZ. A . passerby named Andrew Liverpool said he was driving along when he saw a . woman with her 'left pant leg on fire' and after he pulled over saw the . woman grab her small dog. Amanda tried to leave in a taxi, but Liverpool said he kept the cab from leaving. 'She was really frantic and she was like "my dog has been burned,"' Liverpool said. A . male caller to 911 reported a piece of cloth burning on a gasoline tank . on a driveway and a second female caller confirmed a gasoline tank and . fire, according to a report in TMZ. Animal drama: Amanda, shown with her pet dog in July, was with a small dog at the time of the fire incident . Fire starter: Amanda allegedly started a driveway fire involving a small tank of gasoline and cloth that left two burn marks on a stranger's driveway . Amanda was questioned by Ventura County Sheriff's Department deputies who determined she met the criteria for a psychaitric hold and she was detained, Aguilar said. The 5150 hold is named after the California state code that allows for involuntary hospitalisation for a mental health evaluation. A person can be held against their will for up to 72 hours under such a hold. Deputies asked the homeowner if she knew a shorter woman with 'fuzzy blonde hair and carrying a chihuahua' or any reason why a person would set fire to her driveway, the woman told TMZ. Authorities told the woman that a young lady carrying a 'little red gas tank' had lit a fire in her driveway. Unaware: Homeowner Bonnie Braaten said she didn't know her driveway was on fire until authorities knocked on her door . Burn marks: Two burns marks can be seen on a driveway in Thousand Oaks where Amanda allegedly started a fire . Scene of the crime: Braaten pointed out where the gasoline tank allegedly caught on fire . Amanda's . parents, Rick and Lynn, are considering going to a judge to seek . conservatorship of Amanda, but must act to take legal control quickly . before she is released from her psychiatric hold, a source told RadarOnline. And according to TMZ, they are refusing to pay for the fire damage their daughter allegedly caused, saying: 'Amanda needs to pay for it.' Amanda was born and raised in affluent Thousand Oaks, which is about 35 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles. She was forced to return home to Southern California after she went broke and was unable to find a place to live in New York City, according to RadarOnline. Odd outing: Amanda shopped in a blonde wig and long T-shirt at Bloomingdales in Santa Monica hours before she was involuntarily hospitalised for a mental evaluation . The decision for Amanda to return to Los Angeles 'was made because she . had run out of money she had access to. Amanda was unable to find any . place to live in New York City because of her bizarre behavior,' a . source told the website. 'No one would rent an apartment to her. She does own a house in . Calabasas (California). It’s unclear how she got to California from New . York.' The source also said she does not carry a valid drivers license in . either state. Shopping spree: Amanda shopping hours before being hospitalised involuntarily . Meanwhile, Amanda was pictured in a disheveled state just hours before being placed on involuntary psychiatric hold. She was seen shopping in Bloomingdales in Santa Monica on Monday in a matted blonde wig, a long T-shirt and flip-flops. Amanda will not face any criminal charges related to the driveway fire that prompted her involuntary confinement, Aguilar said. Emergency medical responders were at the scene, but there were no injuries and no medical aide was rendered, Aguilar said. Amanda's listed attorneys in an industry database, Richard Hutton and David Feldman, declined to comment on Tuesday to The Associated Press. Amanda underwent a psychiatric . evaluation in May after being arrested in New York City for . investigation of drug possession and alleged evidence tampering for . throwing a bong out of her high-rise window. Pop singer Britney Spears was infamously placed on a 5150 hold in 2008 after a public mental breakdown. The move to hospitalise Britney came . after months of erratic behaviour, including a head-shaving incident, . speaking in a British accent and other bizarre incidents. Amanda has her own lengthy list of odd behaviour. She . was recently evicted from her suite at a Ritz-Carlton hotel in New York . City after allegedly smoking marijuana in her room and racking up a . $2,000 room service bill. The . former All That star also has frequently lashed out at a wide variety . of different celebrities on Twitter, ranging from Lance Bass to Jason . Biggs. Her odd behaviour commenced with her retirement from acting and move to New York. Troubled star: Amanda, shown in May in a New York City courtroom, has exhibited strange behaviour recently . She shaved her head and displayed bizarre antics earlier this spring while at a New York City hair salon for hours with her sunglasses on. Amanda also was photographed in New York smoking suspicious looking cigarettes and reportedly was booted from her gym for smoking marijuana. The Easy A star also has had several run-ins with the law in California. Teen idol: Amanda, shown in 2001, was a popular actress on Nickelodeon . The Hairspray star in December resolved a hit-and-run case after entering into a civil settlement with the other drivers. Prosecutors charged her last fall with driving on a suspended license after it was temporarily taken away from her following two hit-and-run cases where she was accused of leaving the scene without providing proper information. She has also pleaded not guilty to drunken driving in a separate case. Amanda was one of the biggest actors on children's television for about a decade. She won four straight Kids Choice Awards for best television actress starting in 2000 for her roles in the ensemble variety show All That and for her own vehicle The Amanda Show. The also received Kids Choice Awards for best movie actress for her roles in Big Fat Liar and What A Girl Wants. Former child star: Amanda, shown in 2011 at the MTV Movie Awards, was a child star on Nickelodeon . | Eyewitnesses report seeing gasoline tank on fire outside California house . Placed under 5150 mental evaluation hold lasting up to 72 hours . Ignited her trouser leg and had pet dog with her at time of incident . Her parents Rick and Lynn reportedly may seek conservatorship but must act quickly . Amanda moved back to Los Angeles 'because she was broke' | 6ca261148f3c2b449d1ef48291bbbb3a92ecafa9 |
By . James Slack . and Ryan Kisiel . A key ally of Ed Miliband provoked fury yesterday by blaming the ‘rhetoric’ of the Conservative Party for the brutal killing of a young Italian immigrant. Hannes Swoboda claimed the anti-immigrant language used by government ministers ‘is now leading to murder in the streets of Britain’. The Austrian, who is president of the Socialists and Democrats Group of MEPs in the European Parliament – which includes Britain’s Labour Party – was commenting on the killing of Joele Leotta. Hannes Swoboda has been told to apologise, after being accused of politicising the murder of Italian waiter Joele Leotta in Kent . He also attempted to blame Ukip for . the attack on the 20-year-old, who was beaten to death in Maidstone, . Kent, last Sunday, only a few days after arriving in Britain. Four . men from Lithuania have been charged with his murder. A police officer . investigating the attack told journalists at Medway Magistrates’ Court . that it was not motivated by racial tensions or jobs. Tory . MEP Martin Callanan, who leads the Conservative group in Brussels, . said: ‘To attribute blame for this tragic murder to the British . government’s crackdown on illegal immigration is exceptionally low. Hannes Swoboda should apologise for politicising a tragedy.’ Senior . Tory figures were mystified by Mr Swoboda’s remarks, which followed . speculation in the Italian media that Mr Leotta’s attackers accused him . of ‘stealing English jobs’. Joele Leotta hoped that coming to the UK would help him improve his English . In . a press release, he said: ‘The xenophobic, aggressive climate inflamed . by populists such as Ukip and by the rhetoric of the Conservatives in . government is now leading to murder in the streets of Britain. ‘Campaigns . such as vans with slogans telling immigrants to “go home” and . continuous negative rhetoric against foreigners – including EU citizens – . are creating an ugly mood in Britain, which has long prided itself on . being an open-minded and tolerant nation.’ Ukip leader Nigel Farage has written to Mr Swodoba demanding he withdraw the statement. ‘Hannes . Swoboda is so blinded by hate against people who do not support this . view of full political union in the EU that he levels accusations . without checking the facts,’ he said. ‘In . common with all decent and right-thinking people I am concerned, as . should Mr Swoboda, with the rise of EU nationals committing crime in the . UK.’ Under pressure to . condemn Mr Swodoba, a Labour Party spokesman said: ‘These comments are . deplorable and we do not support them. Hannes Swoboda does not speak for . the Labour Party.’ Mr . Leotta had come to the UK to improve his English and only arrived here . on October 14. He was sharing a flat with a friend and had found a job . in an Italian restaurant. But . on Sunday night a group of men are said to have kicked down the door to . the flat before launching a savage attack on Mr Leotta and his friend. Doctors were unable to save him, but his friend, Alex Galbiati is believed to be recovering in hospital. Mr . Swoboda is a senior ally of Mr Miliband and was invited to speak . alongside the Labour leader at the party’s annual conference last year. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article. | Conservative MEP accuses Swoboda of politicising the tragedy . Joele Leotta had just found a job when he was beaten to death by gang . Police say that attack on Mr Leotta and his friend not racially motivated . | c106bacc1e48f7ea06e83abe8b69c7e5a97ccd94 |
Editor's note: Andrey Kurkov is a Ukrainian novelist born in St. Petersburg in 1961. Having graduated from the Kiev Foreign Languages Institute, he worked as a journalist, did his military service as a prison warden in Odessa, then became a cameraman, writer of screenplays and author. His books are published in English by Harvill Secker in the UK and Meville House in the U.S. The views expressed in this commentary are solely his. For two nights between the 4th and 6th of March, I barely slept. I was checking the Internet every hour to see if Russia had started war with Ukraine. Then the feeling of imminent danger was replaced by emotional fatigue. Although a war still seemed unavoidable, it didn't inspire the same fear as in the early days of the occupation of Crimea. Ukrainian volunteers started to flow towards Crimea and the Eastern border with Russia, while roads filled up with armored personnel carriers and other military vehicles. Ukraine was making an attempt to flex its military muscles, both to test the condition of the army and to reassure the population that we could protect ourselves. It became clear that since independence in 1991 neither Ukrainian presidents nor the government had taken care of the military. Nobody thought that Ukraine might need an army; it was as simple as that. Nobody thought that until this year and now it's an everyday topic. This, and a war with Russia. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov repeats each day that Russia doesn't plan to occupy eastern and southern Ukraine. But it would be odd if anyone believed him. Russia also didn't plan to annex Crimea. Even Russian President Vladimir Putin said that. On March 5, Putin announced to the world that "military maneuvers" were successfully completed and by March 7 all Russian soldiers, together with their equipment, would be back in their usual location, leaving Crimea alone. However, instead of the promised end of these "maneuvers," more than 10,000 Russian troops arrived in Crimea. What to do with Crimea? When it comes to the occupation of Crimea, the Ukrainian government stands firm. Something that must occupy the mind of Putin and others in the Kremlin. This position is without doubt due to the U.S. support of Ukraine. The rest of the world agrees that Crimea is Ukrainian territory occupied by Russia. While Putin continues to show he is not interested in the opinion of the rest of the world, this fact will have rather serious consequences for the occupied peninsula itself. Ukrainian International Airlines stopped all its flights to the Crimean capital Simferopol and Crimean residents are now anxiously waiting for the summer holiday season. A recent law passed in Kiev about occupied territories means that Ukrainians can't enter without prior approval from the authorities. Russian Prime Minister Medvedev, who visited Crimea recently, promised 33 airplanes full of visitors from Russia each day during the summer. Under pressure from the Kremlin, Russian airlines -- the only ones now flying to the peninsula -- have slashed prices on flights. I think Russian oligarchs will soon receive an order from the Kremlin to buy holiday packages to Crimean sanitoriums and resorts for their employees. Otherwise how will the Kremlin get 8 million Russian visitors promised to Crimea this summer? And if all of Russia's citizens do decide to support Crimean hotels and resorts this summer, then who will visit the newly built super-resort of Sochi? But the summer season in Crimea only lasts a little more than three months. And after that, what? Crimea produces wine and grows fruit. They can only export it to Russia, but Russia has enough wine and fruit of its own. Putin will have no other choice but to follow Europe's example and subsidize farmers and winemakers so they don't grow anything and reduce wine production. The impact of this "acquisition" on Russia's budget looks scary. No wonder that the pre-referendum promise to quadruple pensions for Crimea's residents has been replaced with one to reconsider it starting from January 2016. Currently tram and trolleybus driver's salaries are frozen, the number of suburban trains had been cut and people are trying to figure out how to keep on living. Building a Soviet 'Jurassic Park' If the self-proclaimed Crimean government asked me the question: "How can Crimea keep on going?" I would answer that we should create some kind of theme park there. Something between Disneyland and Jurassic Park, but much bigger and more exotic. For the last 20 years Crimea has been known for its love for everything Soviet. Strictly speaking, Crimea has remained Soviet. Against the background of south Crimea's truly stunning coast, lovingly preserved Soviet monuments look very odd. My favorite one -- a big statue of Lenin in Koreiz, not far from Yalta -- has him standing on the cliff looking sternly in the direction of Turkey. There are times, when I think that Russia occupied this peninsula so that Ukrainian nationalists couldn't demolish these Soviet-era landmarks, just as they did in Kiev and central and western Ukraine. So in my eyes the only possible solution to the complex economical situation in Crimea would be the creation of a theme park of Soviet life. Considering that Putin has often said he considers the collapse of Soviet Union as his own personal tragedy, it wouldn't be too much of a risk to call the park, spread over 27,000 square kilometers, "Putinland." A simple, scary scenario . But I know that for Ukrainians this is not the right moment for jokes. Nor for me either; I look towards the near future with anxiety. My main concern is that Russia will start destabilizing southeast Ukraine before the presidential elections on May 25. Putin has already declared that he won't recognize the results of the elections, but what is even more important for him, is that these elections don't take place at all. If they don't then he can keep talking about the illegitimacy of the government, the absence of a legitimate president, and he can move further into Ukraine under the pretext of protecting the Russian-speaking population. The scenario of the Russian expansion could look very simple: May 9 will be commemorated as Victory Day -- something of an annual cult holiday for many in Russia. You can expect that this year communists and pro-Russian activists in the south and east of Ukraine will demonstrate, claiming to be commemorating victory over Nazi Germany. The gatherings will follow a familiar pattern: the occupation of local government buildings and the planting of Russian flags on their roofs. It is clear that Ukrainian authorities have got stronger and will use police and the security services to prevent this happening. Riots will start with the first victims coming from the protesters and police. At that point Russia can send in its armed "peace-keeping" forces in to bring order. I am afraid that once Russian ''peace-keepers'' enter Ukrainian territory they will not stop until they get to Kiev. That is because the Kremlin's main goal remains to put a pro-Russian government in Ukraine, the kind that will sign an agreement of friendship and cooperation and will recognize to Crimea as a Russian territory. Only when this agreement is reached can Russia finally relax and develop the Crimean peninsula legally and without the fear of political and economic sanctions from the European Union and the U.S. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Andrey Kurkov . | Talk of war with Russia is on everyone's mind in Ukraine, says novelist Andrey Kurkov . Crimea may become a burden on Russia and isolated from the rest of the world . Perhaps its best future lies in becoming a Soviet-era theme park, he jokes . Fears that Russia will destabilize southern and eastern Ukraine before elections on May 25 . | 0ae86fa472c851b0c33f8a54635e64ad3596f2b9 |
The girl then told police she had 'forgotten' to . mention other rapes . By . Jaya Narain . PUBLISHED: . 17:52 EST, 10 September 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 01:15 EST, 11 September 2013 . The charges against Michael Le Vell were brought after a conflict of opinion between two leading lawyers in the Crown Prosecution, it has emerged. After his initial arrest in September 2011, the actor was the subject of an intense police investigation. The alleged victim was interviewed on video by specialist officers trained to deal with such cases and she told them about the abuse and rape in detail. The DPP’s Principal Legal Advisor, Alison Levitt QC (left) overruled Chief Crown Prosecutor, Nazir Afzal, (right) who had decided there was insufficient evidence to charge le Vell with any of the abuse or rape allegations . After the police investigation had been concluded a file of evidence was passed on to the Crown Prosecution Service North West. The Chief Crown Prosecutor, Nazir Afzal, examined the file in detail looking at all the allegations and evidence. But after weighing it up he decided there was insufficient evidence to charge le Vell with any of the abuse or rape allegations. Ordeal: Le Vell was charged with 19 child sex offences including rape - later reduced to 12 specimen charges - in February 2012 . Both . parties were both told of this decision in late December 2011 and Le . Vell was said to be ‘relieved and delighted’ at the decision. However . the victim’s mother was said to be furious and after speaking with . police officers she made a formal complaint against the CPS in February . 2012. The girl also . returned to the police in March 2012 told them she had forgotten to . mention other rapes she had suffered at the hands of the actor. Catalyst? The Jimmy Savile sex scandal erupted in October 2012 causing a wholesale re-evaluation of sex cases, particularly those offences against children . The . Jimmy Savile sex scandal erupted in October 2012 causing a wholesale . re-evaluation of sex cases, particularly those offences against . children. The CPS say that in the light of the formal complaint they decided to review the case and Alison Levitt QC, the DPP’s Principal Legal Advisor, overruled Mr Afzal’s decision. In fact she concluded there was sufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction and that the earlier decision not to prosecute should be overturned. Le Vell was subsequently charged with 19 child sex offences including rape - later reduced to 12 specimen charges - in February 2012. Last night a spokesman for the CPS said: ‘The victim’s mother made a formal complaint in February 2012 and asked for the decision to be reviewed, which led to a further detailed review of the evidence by Alison Levitt QC, the DPP’s Principal legal Advisor. ‘She concluded that there was sufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction and that the earlier decision not to prosecute should be overturned. ‘In addition the victim made further allegations to the police in March 2012 which were investigated by the police. 'The Principal Legal Advisor also reviewed this additional evidence and in February 2013 authorised that the defendant be charged with 19 offences in total. ‘All victims now have the right, if they are concerned about a decision not to charge, to ask for the case to be looked at again. 'This process enabled the CPS to re-review this case, to consider the evidence afresh including some further allegations by the victim, and to bring charges.’ Innocent: Michael Le Vell makes a statement to the press after being found not guilty at Manchester Crown Court . | Chief Crown Prosecutor originally decided there was insufficient evidence . However the 'victim's' mother made a formal complaint against the CPS . The girl then told police she had 'forgotten' to . mention other rapes . | 09b07c023ac84b792cc9178527f4b1b03691ab19 |
By . Wills Robinson . PUBLISHED: . 06:28 EST, 17 October 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 09:45 EST, 17 October 2013 . A bus driver who tried to help a pensioner get back in her house by climbing up to her window plunged to his death after the ladder gave way. Father-of-three David Alden, 43, clambered up the side of the two-storey property because his elderly neighbour had been locked out. But his ladder suddenly toppled over and was left clinging desperately to a parapet. Tragic accident: David Alden fell from his ladder when he was trying to help a pensioner who was locked out of her house on Church Street in Paignton, Devon (pictured) Despite his frantic attempts to hold on the structure was too rotten to hold his weight and gave way. Married Mr Alden, of Paignton, Devon, fell to the ground and landed on his feet, but then fell backwards and struck his head on a metal grate. He was taken to hospital with severe head injuries after the tragic accident early on Sunday morning but was pronounced dead when his life-support machine was switched off. His family have also revealed his organs were donated and could save 12 people's lives around the country. Mr Alden’s wife Theresa said: 'We have been told he went to help somebody who was locked out of her flat. That’s just the sort of thing he would do. 'He was a hero. He had always wanted to join the fire brigade and did a training course in a year or so ago.' Mr Alden’s mother-in-law Mary Bennett added: 'He was trying to climb up a ladder to get into an open window for an elderly lady who was locked out of her flat. 'The parapet which was rotten gave way and he hit the ground, sustaining a massive fracture and brain injury.' 'The ladder fell sideways and he was hanging onto the parapet, but the wood was all rotten and it collapsed. He . landed on his feet on an incline and fell backwards, hitting his head . on a metal grating. It’s typical of David that he went to help somebody' Mrs Bennett said a friend of the family witnessed the 5.30am fall on her way to work. She went on: 'The ladder fell sideways and he was hanging onto the parapet, but the wood was all rotten and it collapsed. 'He landed on his feet on an incline and fell backwards, hitting his head on a metal grating. It’s typical of David that he went to help somebody.' Mr Alden, who has children named Lucy, Vicky and James, had been living in Sidcup, Kent, but returned to Paignton eight weeks ago. His family described him as 'a popular, sociable man known to many from his days driving the No.12 bus in Torbay'. They revealed Mr Alden’s organs have been donated to save others. Mrs Bennett added: 'David’s organs were donated to save, we are told, at least 12 other people’s lives across the country. We were told that his heart and lungs went to save a young person. 'He will forever be missed by his wife Theresa and his three beautiful children.' Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed they received a call from a woman who was locked out of her flat. A police spokesman said: 'It appears he tried to climb through a window to help someone get into a property they had been locked out of, and he fell.' | David Alden, 43, clambered up the property to help his frail neighbour . Reached the window but ladder gave way leaving him clinging to a parapet . Rotting material crumbled causing him to drop and hit is head on a grate . His wife said he was a hero who had always wanted to be a fireman . | 7dde90a0a6cac10be6b706475ce9bbad077b0962 |
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