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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- A superpower needs a super attention span. Unfortunately, Americans seem to take little interest in the troubles of the world around them, even when those troubles threaten soon to vex Americans themselves. Americans fought two world wars -- and faced nuclear annihilation in a protracted Cold War -- to defend the freedom of Europe. In the thrilling days of 1989-91, four generations of American sacrifice were magnificently vindicated. The communist regimes of central Europe collapsed. The Soviet Union itself broke apart into smaller and less threatening pieces. For four centuries, the rulers of Russia had sought security for themselves by dominating first their own people, then their neighbors, then their neighbors' neighbors, then their neighbors' neighbors' neighbors ... until their power extended from Berlin to the Pacific Ocean. Then, abruptly, that imperial project broke apart. Subject nations regained their freedom. The Russians themselves gained a new opportunity -- perhaps the first in their national existence -- to choose a government that served its people. Ukraine protesters block government offices, call for strike . The former rulers, unfortunately, had other ideas. Democracy did not take root in Russia after 1991. How and why it failed is a long story, with many villains, but let's cut to the end result: A former top officer of the KGB maneuvered his way into the Russian presidency in 1999-2000. Vladimir Putin restored to power the old secret police apparatus. Since then, Putin and his coterie have attempted to reconstitute as much of the old Soviet Union as they could, while plundering Russia's wealth for themselves. One step to that reconstitution of the Soviet Union was absolutely indispensable: Reasserting Moscow's power over Ukraine. No nation suffered more from Soviet communism than the Ukrainians. Ukrainian farmers lost their lands and homes to Soviet collectivization in the 1920s; millions died in the man-made famine that followed in the 1930s. Their language and culture were stunted under Moscow rule; their intellectuals and writers were suppressed, banished, murdered, and defamed. In 1991, Ukrainians seized their chance to build a country of their own. Ukrainian independence liberated not only the Ukrainian people, but all Europe. Russia without the nearly 46 million people and vast natural resources of the Ukraine is a large and powerful country, but it is no superpower. Since Putin's entry into power, Russia minus Ukraine has sought to influence and corrupt the democracies of Europe. A Russia that reintegrated Ukraine would possess the power -- like the Soviet Union of old -- to intimidate and bully democratic Europe. Russia minus Ukraine can aspire to become a normal nation state, a democracy, even a liberal democracy. A Russia that holds Ukraine by force must forever be a militarized authoritarian regime, a menace to its own people as much as to the rest of the European continent and the democratic world. Upholding Ukrainian independence is thus a deep concern, not only to the Ukrainians, but to all the free countries of Europe -- and thus to the United States, free-Europe's security and trading partner. Vladimir Putin understands all this too, and he doesn't like any of it. Since he came to power, he's worked to undermine and subvert Ukrainian independence. He has been successful. Ukraine imports its oil and natural gas from Russia, and Putin has used energy dependency to sway Ukrainian politics and bribe Ukraine's dauntingly corrupt leaders. But every once in a while, Putin goes too far. He went too far in 2004, collaborating with Ukrainian former communists to rig a presidential election. Blatant fraud inspired Ukraine's famous "Orange Revolution" -- and a temporary swing in Ukraine's political orientation to the West. Now Putin is trying again -- and again he is meeting massive resistance in the Ukrainian streets. Over the past years, the European Union negotiated a trade pact with Ukraine. The pact would enrich ordinary Ukrainians, today the third poorest people in Europe, after the Kosovars and Moldovans. The pact would lessen Ukraine's economic dependence on Russia -- and prepare the way for Ukraine's own eventual membership in the EU. Under extreme Russian pressure, the Ukrainian president -- the very same man whose election fraud triggered the Orange Revolution nine years ago -- has repudiated his own treaty, and his country's best hopes. Tens of thousands of protesters have filled the streets and squares of the capital, Kiev, two weekends in a row. Police have suppressed the protests brutally, injuring many people. The regime's controlled courts have banned any further public demonstrations until January. German Chancellor Angela Merkel expressed disappointment in muted tones after a November 28 summit with the Ukrainian leadership: "Unfortunately not all expectations have been fulfilled. We will make very clear here that the EU is ready to accept Ukraine as an associate member, to sign the association treaty. Then we will see. We have no hope that it will happen this time, but the door is open." Don't be fooled by the muted words, however. What's at stake in the streets of Kiev is the future of the European continent -- and American prosperity and security. An inward-looking America is averting its attention from its own most important interests and highest ideals. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of David Frum. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] David Frum: Democracy failed in Russia and a top officer of KGB, Vladimir Putin, became president . Frum: Putin and his coterie want to resurrect Soviet Union and want to keep Ukraine in thrall . Frum: Ukrainians want to enter EU and lessen dependence on Russia; Putin fighting to stop it . He says Ukrainian protests met with brutal suppression; time for U.S. to pay attention . [/SUMMARY]</s>

David Frum: Democracy failed in Russia and a top officer of KGB, Vladimir Putin, became president . Frum: Putin and his coterie want to resurrect Soviet Union and want to keep Ukraine in thrall . Frum: Ukrainians want to enter EU and lessen dependence on Russia; Putin fighting to stop it . He says Ukrainian protests met with brutal suppression; time for U.S. to pay attention .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Associated Press . Bernie Fuller has fished for decades, yet he's never witnessed anything to match the sight of dozens of zombie bass eerily rising out of a north Alabama lake. Americans like Fuller spend about $48 billion annually fishing for fun, and they like knowing what's in the water with their bait. To provide answers to that question and more, biologists are conducting a study where they use 'electrofishing' to stun fish in Tennessee Valley Authority lakes. Momentarily incapacitated by a weak electrical charge that's fed into the water from a boat equipped with a humming generator, fish large and small floated motionless to the surface during an electrofishing trip last week. They were scooped up with a net and placed into an aerated holding tank. Eyes wide and mouths agape, stunned fish were measured, weighed and checked for illnesses and parasites. Within a few minutes the animals snapped out of a zombie-like state, and workers put them back in the water to swim away. Protection groups including People for . the Ethical Treatment of Animals contend fish feel pain, but . electrofishing has become a standard tool for biologists. Scroll down for video . The 'swimming dead'! 'Zombie bass,' like the one seen here, are briefly stunned by a small electrical current, float to the surface and are measured by biologists before they swim away . John Justice, a fisheries biologist with TVA, said fish rarely suffer any lasting effects from electrofishing. 'Generally speaking they recover within a few seconds to a couple of minutes,' he said. Justice said a . slight shock is much easier on fish and other wildlife than the . previous practice of dousing a sealed-off cove with a chemical compound . called rotenone, which killed fish so they could be scooped out and . counted. Fuller was among nine area anglers who went along on a TVA research trip last week on Wheeler Lake near Rogersville, and he grinned as one big fish after another floated to the top in a reservoir where he thought there were far fewer and much smaller bass based on his fishing experience. 'I've learned there's a lot of fish in here,' Fuller said after a day on the water. Another fisherman, Roger Morris, laughed as a big bass popped to the surface. 'They're pulling some 3- to 4-pounders regularly and all day we may catch three or four that size,' said Morris, of nearby Courtland. Is it dead? TVA workers Andrew Hopper, left, and John Justice, right, are seeing weighing a 'zombie bass' caught with electrofishing. The technique is used to assess the health of both fish and reservoirs . Justice said data collected during successive years of electrofishing provides biologists with valuable information about how to best manage the lakes, which are some of the most biologically diverse in North America. The statistics show whether adjustments need to be made to things including water flow, catch limits, stocking programs and water levels, he said. 'By looking at the overall health and condition of the fish we collect we can tell a lot about what's going on with the fishery,' said Justice. Electrofishing is simple enough. A boat is equipped with a pair of fiberglass arms that support a metal pole that hangs off the bow over the water. Three metal cables hang from the pole into the water, and an insulated wire connects the cables to an electrical generator in the rear of the boat. On the hunt? Tennessee Valley Authority workers are seen electrofishing and looking for 'zombie bass' to float to the surface . With the current flowing and cables in the lake, an operator steps on a foot pedal to electrify the water with a 6-amp charge that extends outward and downward as much as 8 feet. Fish within the field are stunned and float to the surface, along with the occasional turtle or snake. Once in a tank on board the boat, stunned fish appear lifeless as they float atop the water. Most recover within moments, and some are actively flipping and jumping by the time they are measured. Of about 200 bass and crappie collected during three hours of electrofishing at Wheeler Lake, every fish went back into the water alive once researchers were done. 'They look real healthy,' Morris said. Fishing doesn't always mean catching, but Fuller said seeing how many fish gather around fallen trees and rocks taught him a lesson about where to concentrate while on the water. 'I think it will help me be a better fisherman,' he said. 'A much more patient fisherman, anyway, for sure.' [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Tennessee Valley Authority employs 'electrofishing,' which electrifies water with a small charge . Fish are stunned and float . to the surface, where they are tested by biologists for illnesses and parasites . Snap out of 'zombie-like state' within a few minutes . Protection groups, including PETA, contend fish feel pain during procedure . Electrofishing is used to better determine the health of lakes . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Tennessee Valley Authority employs 'electrofishing,' which electrifies water with a small charge . Fish are stunned and float . to the surface, where they are tested by biologists for illnesses and parasites . Snap out of 'zombie-like state' within a few minutes . Protection groups, including PETA, contend fish feel pain during procedure . Electrofishing is used to better determine the health of lakes .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- Novak Djokovic cruised to a fourth Dubai Open title with a straight sets 7-5 6-3 win over Tomas Berdych at the Dubai Tennis Stadium on Saturday. The world No.1 came back from a break down in the first set against the imposing Czech -- who beat Roger Federer in the semifinals on Friday -- to eventually prevail in just over 90 minutes and extend his unbeaten run to 18 matches. Read: Federer: 'Naive to think tennis is clean' Djokovic, who won a fourth Australian Open title in January, was last defeated by Sam Querrey at the BNP Paribas Masters on October 31st. "I felt when I came from break down that I started believing in myself a little bit more. I hung in there and stayed tough. This is the important thing," Djokovic said, ATPWorldTour.com reported. Read: Grand slam diet: How to supercharge your body . "I have been enjoying my time, always coming here with a big team, with family, friends," he added. "Everybody has been welcomed. This generosity of the people and from the organisation is always remembered. So this is definitely one of my favourite tournaments throughout the year. Winning it four times now is something that I definitely enjoy." Read: Visualizing greatness: How Novak Djokovic rose to the top . Meanwhile in the Brazil Tennis Cup, top seed Venus Williams was beaten by world 109 Olga Puchkova in the semifinals. The Russian came from a set down to eventually beat the 32-year-old 4-6 6-4 7-5 to book her place in the final against Romania's Monica Niculescu. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Novak Djokovic beats Tomas Berdych in the final of Dubai Open 7-5 6-3 . Serb, who won a fourth Australian Open title in January, now unbeaten in 18 matches . Venus Williams loses in semifinal of Brazil Tennis Cup to Russian ranked 109 in the world . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Novak Djokovic beats Tomas Berdych in the final of Dubai Open 7-5 6-3 . Serb, who won a fourth Australian Open title in January, now unbeaten in 18 matches . Venus Williams loses in semifinal of Brazil Tennis Cup to Russian ranked 109 in the world .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Heather Mack, 19, appeared emotional as she cradled her growing baby bump ahead of the start of her trial . A heavily-pregnant American teenage has told how she misses her mother, as the suitcase the socialite's body was found stuffed inside was pictured for the first time. Heather Mack, who is seven months' pregnant, and her boyfriend Tommy Schaefer, 21, are accused of killing Sheila von Wiese-Mack and then stuffing her body inside the piece of luggage. The strain showed on the 19-year-old's face as she followed the opening of her trial on the resort island of Bali through an Indonesian interpreter. The grey-coloured suitcase and some blood-stained sheets were presented as evidence on the opening day of the case. Ahead of the hearing Mack revealed that she misses her socialite mother  'everyday' and loved her 'with all my heart.' Mack said she was petrified ahead of her trial, but that her fears were ‘more for my daughter than me,’ according to the Chicago Tribune. If the young lovers are found guilty they will face a firing squad. 'I loved my mom with all my heart and miss her every day,’ the newspaper reported Mack as saying. She reportedly added that ‘If I allow myself to grieve whatsoever I’m in a complete state of depression. ‘The smile (seen in photos of her arriving at court) is actually a disguise I wear to survive here.’ But she said she was receiving help from ‘good Samaritans who helped to get her food and vitamins and her baby, Stella, named after Schaefer’s great-grandmother, was healthy. Referring to the baby, she told the paper: ‘She’s healthy and it is completely safe here and (a) completely fair country.’ Mack revealed that she believes her lawyer would prove her innocence and asked ‘that the public reserve judgment on my case until the judges passes his verdict.’ Earlier this week three judges rejected a last-ditch attempt by the Chicago couple's defence teams to have the case thrown out. The court was shown the suitcase that Sheila von Wiese-Mack's body was found stuffed inside, along with a set of blood stained sheets . Heather Mack, second right, listens intently to an Indonesian translator as the case against her begins at Denpasar District Court, Bali . They had claimed that there were 'inaccuracies' on the indictment and it should be annulled at the hearing in Denpasar. Witnesses are now due to start giving evidence in the case against Mack. Schaefer will be tried separately with the same judges and prosecuting teams at the Denpasar District Court. Dressed in matching white shirts and orange prison waistcoats, Mack and Schaefer were handcuffed to each other as they arrived at the District Court. Miss Mack's bulging baby bump was clearly visible. The pair were sent to the island's notorious Kerobokan Prison in December ahead of their trials. They were arrested in August following the gruesome discovery of the badly beaten body of Mack's 62-year-old mother stuffed inside a suitcase that had been loaded into a taxi outside the luxury St Regis Hotel in Nusa Dua. Heavily pregnant Heather Mack, pictured with Tommy Schaefer, arriving at court ahead of her trial. Heather Mack, left, and co-accused Tommy Schaefer, right, boarding the prison van to take them to court . Tommy Schaefer being led from Kerobokan Prison in Denpasar, Bali, in handcuffs for the first day of his girlfriends murder trial . They were charged with premeditated murder, which carries the death penalty. Prosecutors have alleged that the couple sent text messages about their initial plan to disguise a murder as suicide on the beach. In their indictment, prosecutors alleged that the couple plotted the murder because von Wiese-Mack did not approve of their relationship and that Mack had once suggested that Schaefer hire someone to kill her mother for $50,000. They further alleged that an argument over the hotel bill made Mack's mother angry and she scolded Schaefer, using a racial slur, and Schaefer then battered her with a fruit bowl handle. Mack, who is seven months' pregnant, helped stuff her mother's body in the suitcase by sitting on it to enable Schaefer to close it, according to the indictment. They then hired a taxi and placed the suitcase in the trunk and told the driver they were going to check out of the hotel and would return, but never did, it was alleged. The pair are accused of killing Sheila von Wiese-Mack, pictured, and stuffing her body in a suitcase . US judge, Neil Cohen, sitting in the Cook County Court, said Miss Mack should be allowed to have a total of $150,000 from a trust fund set up by her murdered mother to pay for her defence. But Miss Mack told the Chicago Tribune that despite the judge’s order, her defence attorney, Mr Aly Soendardi, had received only a first payment of $50,000. The judge had, in fact, ordered that only $50,000 should be made as a down-payment until Miss Mack’s lawyer provided billing statements explaining the work being done. However, Miss Mack has accused three US attorneys for the hold-up in the remainder of the money and said she was now planning to have them fired from the American side of her fight against the premeditated murder charge which carries a maximum sentence of death. Behind bars: Mack and Schaefer, pictured earlier this week, face a maximum penalty of death by firing squad if found guilty. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Heather Mack, 19, speaks for first time about love for her dead mother . Stands accused of murder with boyfriend Tommy Schaefer, 21, in Bali . Pair said to have killed Mack's mother Sheila von Wiese-Mack in August . Mack says loved her mother with 'all my heart' and misses her 'every day' She is seven months pregnant and due to give birth in April . Court is shown suitcase body was found inside and blood stained sheets . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Heather Mack, 19, speaks for first time about love for her dead mother . Stands accused of murder with boyfriend Tommy Schaefer, 21, in Bali . Pair said to have killed Mack's mother Sheila von Wiese-Mack in August . Mack says loved her mother with 'all my heart' and misses her 'every day' She is seven months pregnant and due to give birth in April . Court is shown suitcase body was found inside and blood stained sheets .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Keith Gladdis and Emma Reynolds . PUBLISHED: . 06:48 EST, 1 October 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 19:12 EST, 1 October 2012 . THE ex-girlfriend of TV  comedian Justin Lee Collins demanded £20,000 from him after their relationship ended, a court heard yesterday. Anna Larke allegedly threatened to ‘hurt’ Collins and demanded money in return for not going to the police with her claims of physical and verbal abuse. The accusations emerged during the trial of Collins for harassment at St Albans Crown Court. Dramatic claims: The comedian, left, and ex-girlfriend Anna Larke, right, arrive at St Albans Crown Court today . Miss Larke, 38, has claimed the TV . star forced her to produce a dossier of her sexual past and throw out . DVDs with actors she might fancy after they moved in together. The former PR worker also claims . Collins slapped her, pulled her hair and spat in her face during the . nine months they were a couple. Sonia Woodley QC, defending Collins, . claimed Miss Larke had bombarded him with 103 texts in a single day . after they split in July last year. At the time Collins – who found fame . on Channel 4’s The Friday Night Project with fellow comedian Alan Carr – . was recording a show for a radio station. Miss Woodley said: ‘You rang him on . one occasion realising he was not going to come back. You said: “Give me . £20,000 or I’m going to hurt you and I’m going to go to the police”. ‘He said, “I’ve offered you all sorts of help but I’m not getting involved in blackmail”. ‘You wanted money. Is that what part of this case is about, Anna?’ 'Mental abuse': Anna Larke claims Collins told her she was 'riddled with cellulite' and told her to 'look at the f***ing ground' when out in public . Miss Larke replied: ‘I never said . that. No, no, no. Oh my God, it’s absolute lies. If I wanted money I . would have gone straight to the press. Why would I have put myself . through all this?’ Miss Larke has admitted that before . giving evidence, she told a police officer she would go to the PR guru . Max Clifford if Collins was found not guilty. She said: ‘I’m not sure . what I was thinking when I said that.’ Miss Larke also admitted that she had told Collins that a previous boyfriend had compared her behaviour to a ‘monster’s’. Later the court heard from Miss . Larke’s father Jeremy, who said his daughter had looked ‘haggard’ during . her relationship with Collins. He said he had noticed ‘reddish’ marks . on her face and ‘bruises on her arms’ but she had been ‘evasive’ about . how they had happened. Miss Larke returned to her parents’ home in Hertfordshire after her split with Collins last summer. Her father said: ‘She was completely torn apart, I would say. Completely irrational and torn apart. ‘She did say there had been some sort of fiery end to it.’ Miss Larke’s mother Penelope told the . court her daughter had been ‘a bit thoughtful’ and ‘a little bit . unhappy’ during her relationship with Collins. She said: ‘He had a bad temper and . everything had to be perfect. He was pressing her to tell him about her . past. I told her it is nobody’s business. He told her, “If you don’t . tell me you can eff off out of my house”.’ She also said her daughter had told her Collins had slapped her in the face on one occasion and grabbed her hair. He also allegedly told Miss Larke to close down her Facebook account, stop using Twitter and abandon her email address. The court was told he even banned her . from looking at other men, saying: ‘When you’re with me you look at the . ****ing ground, you look at a tree... you don’t look at any other . ****ing human being.’ Miss . Larke said he had abused her for being overweight calling her a ‘fat, . ****ing dog’ and said she was ‘riddled with cellulite’. Under cross-examination, Miss Larke . admitted Collins had showered her with gifts including a laptop, digital . camera and diamond ear rings. She . also told how Collins had paid for her to take three months off work as . a Christmas present and had taken her on ‘expensive and luxurious’ holidays. Asked why he . had bought the computer, Miss Larke – who gave evidence from behind a . curtain – said: ‘I imagine it’s because he was very guilty. He also . abused my cat, he’s an animal abuser as well.’ Miss . Larke also claimed Collins bought her clothes, including a $1,000 . leather dress from New York, because he wanted to control what she wore. Miss . Larke said Collins had given her ‘thousands’ of bruises’ and some could . be seen in pictures taken of them on holiday in Miami last year. Despite . numerous visits to her GP, she said she had not shown the doctor her . bruises because she did not want to get Collins into trouble. Supportive family: Miss Larke's parent Penelope and Jeremy are due to give evidence against Collins later today . A tearful Miss Larke said: ‘Justin was the love of my life. I still loved him. I’m not going to grass up my boyfriend.’ The jury of nine women and three men has heard Miss Larke went through menopause at the age of 36 and ‘despised herself’ because she couldn’t give Collins children, they were told. Mrs Larke agreed Collins had been . generous to her daughter – a bankrupt and recovering alcoholic – in . giving her gifts and holidays to America. She also claimed her daughter had not . drunk during the relationship and bought a breathalyser device to prove . she had not been drinking. The court was also shown cards Miss . Larke had written to Collins during their relationship. Part of one . read: ‘My darling I missed you so much, I love you. I can’t be without . you, please think about us both making small changes for an amazing life . together.’ A series of text messages between the . two after their split were also read to the court. In one Collins said: . ‘I’m going to get the help I need my gorgeous girl. I am sorry I hurt . you baby. I love you so much.’ Another said: ‘You walked out on me. You were supposed to worship me.’ Bitter feud: Collins allegedly repeatedly threatened Miss Larke, 38, and forced her to detail her sexual history . Looking cheerful: Collins in January 2011 with Miss Larke, shortly after he left wife Karen . Miss Larke's father Jeremy today said she became ‘nervous’ and appeared to be ‘walking on eggshells’ when she started dating Collins. He told the court she had stopped . wearing make-up and started looking ‘haggard' and he had noticed a red . mark on her face and bruising on the back of her arms. Mr Larke said: 'I tried to ask her if she was okay and she would just fob me off. 'Eventually I noticed marks on her arms and her face. I questioned her about it but she dismissed it again.' He . told jurors he did not know about the extent of some of her problems, . including the fact she was diagnosed as being a chronic alcoholic prior . to dating Collins. 'It’s all a great shock to me. I’m very upset about it, very upset,' he said. Prosecutor Mr Shaw opened the case by saying that the relationship was 'characterised by this defendant exerting control over her, verbally abusing her and physically assaulting her.' He went on: 'He engaged in a campaign of verbal and physical abuse against Ms Larke. He was very controlling of her and took a prurient interest in her past sexual history, which he then used against her, again and again in arguments and assaults against her.' Collins, of Kew, south west London, denies the single charge of harassment by causing Miss Larke fear of violence. The case continues. Sorry we are unable to accept comments for legal reasons. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Anna Larke, 38, allegedly bombarded the TV star with texts after they split . He claims she threatened to go to the police unless he paid her £20,000 . She denies the allegations, calling them 'absolute lies' Miss Larke says Collins subjected her to a barrage of verbal and physical abuse during their relationship . Father Jeremy Larke said his daughter stopped wearing make-up and started looking 'haggard' during the relationship . Her mother Penelope said she told her daughter to 'come home' after hearing about the alleged abuse . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Anna Larke, 38, allegedly bombarded the TV star with texts after they split . He claims she threatened to go to the police unless he paid her £20,000 . She denies the allegations, calling them 'absolute lies' Miss Larke says Collins subjected her to a barrage of verbal and physical abuse during their relationship . Father Jeremy Larke said his daughter stopped wearing make-up and started looking 'haggard' during the relationship . Her mother Penelope said she told her daughter to 'come home' after hearing about the alleged abuse .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Sean O'hare . PUBLISHED: . 06:21 EST, 6 December 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 09:51 EST, 6 December 2012 . A mystery lottery player has lost out on a £64m fortune after the . deadline to claim the prize expired and the money was handed to charity. The unlucky individual, who bought the winning EuroMillions ticket in Hertfordshire on June 8th, had until 11pm yesterday to collect the massive windfall. But despite a National Lottery publicity campaign, the would-be multi-millionaire missed the 180-day deadline - making the £63,837,543.60 prize the biggest unclaimed lottery win in history and the biggest ever windfall for the National Lottery Good Causes fund. Scroll down for video . The winner of the huge lottery windfall bought their ticket in the . Stevenage or Hitchin area of Hertfordshire (pictured is central Hitchin) A National Lottery spokeswoman said: 'Unfortunately, I can confirm that the ticket holder did not come . forward within the deadline to claim their prize and has now sadly . missed out on this staggering amount of money. Kidz Unlimited - Charity Whizz Kidz runs the Kidz Unlimited project which provides young disabled people with local fun and friendship clubs and camps across England, spaces to learn new skills and build confidence, as well as access to tailored work placements. Drumatik - Drumatik, a community drumming group in West Fife is making a life-changing difference to the lives of its members.  Surf Action CIC - Surf Action works with service personnel returning from active service from all conflicts, by providing special therapeutic surfing sessions to help them get back to community life. Oasis Domestic Abuse Service -   The Thanet-based service offers emergency safe and temporary accommodation to women suffering from domestic violence, and their children. Brighter Future Workshop – This group enhances the lives of people with disabilities and others who are disadvantaged.  The Phoenix Group for Deaf Children (North Hertfordshire)   This group helps deaf children and their families to communicate, enabling the child to fully integrate into their home life and social community. 'The . vast majority of prizes are claimed within the 180 days but to avoid . this unfortunate situation happening again, we would urge all National Lottery players to check their tickets on a regular basis.' The distribution of the money will be the responsibility of 13 lottery . distribution bodies across the country. Health, Education, Environment, and charitable causes will receive the lion's share of the winnings, at 40 per cent. Sports, The Arts and Heritage will each receive 20 per cent. Michael . Thompson, a spokesman for The National Lottery Good Causes, said: . 'Countless good causes will benefit from this unclaimed prize. 'National Lottery players should be proud that they are helping so many good causes in their own area.” 'In theory, the £64 million unclaimed prize would fund over 6,000 minibuses to help kids with disabilities. 'The . £64 million would also fund the improvement of approximately 7,800 play . areas for children across the UK and build over 1,000 village . halls/community centres across the UK'. National . Lottery officials launched a desperate search for the holder, raising . awareness through adverts and posters - with even a town crier . proclaiming the win from a Lamborghini. All . lottery players were urged to check their tickets and search some of the . more unusual places where “lost” tickets have been found in the past, . such as in bin bags, wedged down the back of sofas and stashed in car . sun visors. The . lottery spokeswoman added: 'We tried very hard to find the . ticket-holder, with lots of awareness-raising activity over the past 180 . days, and it’s a real shame that they have missed out, but there is . still one winner - the nation. In 2001 Martyn Tott, a purchasing . manager from Watford, missed out on a jackpot of £3,011,065 after losing . his ticket. Using computer records, he was able to prove the winning . ticket was his but Camelot refused to pay out — since the rules state . that the winner must have their ticket to claim their fortune. The . decision sparked a national furore, with even the then Prime Minister . Tony Blair championing Mr Tott’s cause — but all in vain. The prize money would have allowed the . winner to buy 339 houses at the  average Stevenage price of £190,000  or . — should the urge take them — more than two million bottles of . champagne. It would . also have made them a good deal richer than the commuter town’s most . glamorous son, F1 driver Lewis Hamilton (who is worth a reported . £55 million), and almost three times wealthier than local Harry Potter . star Rupert Grint (worth a relatively paltry £24 million). In 2004, £7 million went unclaimed in Belfast, and in September 2007 a £6.9 million win wasn’t claimed in Devon. Winner: Past Stevenage lottery winners include Sharon Creighton pictured celebrating with her son James at Knebworth House in 2005 . Loser: Martyn Tott, from Watford, missed out on a £3million jackpot when he didn't claim a lottery win in time . Yesterday . a drawing by Italian artist Raphael fetched a record £29 million at . auction - a price that would leave the ticket holder with plenty of cash . left in their pocket. A Boeing 737 plane . If their art tastes are more modern, Damien Hirst’s diamond-encrusted skull is worth £50 million. 60 Eurocopters . A five-bedroom house in Belgravia, London, with a labyrinth . of subterranean rooms, including a ballroom, swimming pool and gym - a . snip at £16 million. 7,000 Rolex Daytona watches . A Sunseeker yacht in the Mediterranean might cost £4.75 million . 90,000 pairs of Christian Louboutin shoes . Pay the wages bill for . Manchester City’s first team for a season . 500,000 bottles of 2002 Dom Perignon 200 . Until now the largest unclaimed sum is £9.4 million, on a ticket that was bought in Doncaster in July 2005. Camelot’s Simon Horne says: ‘We all want winners to get their money but there must be a deadline. Otherwise . every prize would just go on indefinitely. But this way billions of . pounds have gone to good causes over the years — from funding the . Olympics through bodies like Sport England to local playgroups and Scout . clubs.’ Still, the psychological fallout of a near miss can be devastating. After Mr Tott was denied his millions . he plunged into depression, separated from his partner and moved to . America, where he joined an evangelical cult. He has since returned and, . claiming to have found happiness, written a book about his ordeal. Residents . in Stevenage can readily imagine the pain of losing a winning ticket. Marion Johnson, 56, a human resources manager, says: ‘Can you imagine? It would be awful. It’s money that could completely change your life. If . that were me, I’d feel sick.’ Of course, the treasure hunt would not be needed if Camelot revealed  the precise place where the winning ticket was sold. Purchasing . records mean that they can easily identify the shop — but the company’s . licence forbids it from making that information public in order to . maximise the winner’s chances of anonymity. WATCH THE HUNT FOR THE LOTTERY LOSER . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Ticket holder becomes biggest unclaimed lottery prize loser in history . £64million plus £645,000 in interest handed to National Lottery Good Causes . £29 billion so far raised for Good Causes fund through lottery ticket sales . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Ticket holder becomes biggest unclaimed lottery prize loser in history . £64million plus £645,000 in interest handed to National Lottery Good Causes . £29 billion so far raised for Good Causes fund through lottery ticket sales .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Shoplifters are being sent to food banks as part of a crackdown on crime as police raise concerns that hunger is behind the rising number of offences across Britain. Police chiefs around the country have raised concerns over a sharp rise in the numbers of first-time offenders stealing from supermarkets. Quarterly crime figures due to be released next week are expected to show an increasing number of shoplifting offences recorded by 37 of Britain's 43 police forces, according to The Times. Austerity crime: Shoplifters are being sent to food banks as part of a crack down on crime as police raise concerns that hunger is behind the rising number of offences across Britain . However, the country's overall crime rate is falling as the success of London's Metropolitan Police - which accounts for around 20 per cent of all recorded crime - is obscuring rising figures in other areas. According to The Times the new figures from the Office for National Statistics will show that crime in the capital has fallen by around six per cent, while other forces experience a rise. 'Without this progress in London, it . might not be possible for the Home Office to laud a national crime . reduction this year,' London's deputy mayor for policing and crime Stephen Greenhalgh told the newspaper. In 2012-13 there were 36,500 shoplifting offences in the capital, compared with 42,000 in 2009-10. Mr Greenhalgh said Met Commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe should be credited for the falling crime rate. 'Criminals here are on the back foot . because the cops are working harder and smarter, not because more people . are in work,' he added. Trend: In North Wales instances of shoplifting have increased by 21.7 per cent compared with last year . Help: North Wales PCC Winston Roddick said arrested shoplifters would be directed to food banks in the hope that ensuring people were not hungry would reduce the number of thefts . Assistant Commissioner Helen King, from the Metropolitan Police Service, said: 'We are committed to cutting crime, with burglary at its lowest in 40 years and robbery at its lowest in 15 years. We’ve also had some excellent results in tackling gangs, weapon-related crime and youth violence. 'This has been achieved as a result of a lot of hard work by our officers across London with the support from our partners and the public to bring offenders to justice and improve our service to victims. 'We are moving in the right direction, but there’s still a great deal of work to do to cut crime further. I hope the people of London will be reassured by these successes and our commitment to making our city a safe and great place to be.' But while the capital is leading the country's economic recovery, police in other areas have blamed austerity for rising numbers of shoplifting offences. In North Wales instances of shoplifting have increased by 21.7 per cent compared with last year, and the area's police and crime commissioner said such thefts now accounted for 10 per cent of all crime in the region. Winston Roddick said he believed hunger is an underlying cause of the offences, and told business leaders at a meeting last week that arrested shoplifters would be directed to food banks in the hope that ensuring people were not hungry would reduce the number of thefts. 'Officers tell me that interviews of offenders and . analysis of types of items stolen suggest many offences are committed to . raise money to feed a drug habit or to obtain food,' he told the North Wales . Business Club and the Institute of Directors. Research from The Trussell Trust suggests that the number of adults and children using food banks has now exceeded 900,000. The charity said that 913,000 people, 330,205 of them children, had received at least three-days' emergency help during 2013-14, with researchers claiming the 162 per cent jump in people seeking assistance is due to rising living . costs combined with low pay and problems over welfare payments. The Trussell Trust now has more than 400 food banks across the UK, and aims to have one in every town. The banks were opening at a rate of two a week to cope with the number of people facing food shortages, but this is now down to one. The government introduced tougher rules aimed at benefit claimants last October including raising the minimum sanction for violations from one to four weeks. More than 20 charities, including the Trussell Trust have written to the government accusing them of violating people's basic right to food. However, the Department of Work and Pensions said it was the growth in the number of food banks which has increased demand rather than new benefit regulations. A letter signed by 600 church leaders including 36 Anglican bishops earlier this year called on the Government to deal with what it described as a ‘national crisis’ of poverty and people living below the bread line. But their concerns contradict findings by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development which show food poverty in Britain has reduced dramatically. Only 8.1 per cent reported struggling to afford food in 2012 – down from 9.8 per cent in 2007, before the economic crisis. 'More work is required to quantify the impact which the current economic climate and benefit changes are having on crime levels. 'In . the meantime, work is taking place to identify the location and . operating hours of food banks and other support services. This . information will then be made available in local communities and handed . to those arrested for shoplifting.' Mr Roddick added that stores would be encouraged to issue civil banning orders for offenders as part of a crack down on shoplifting. Earlier this year Northumbria's PCC Vera Baird blamed welfare cuts for a rise in shoplifting by women., saying there was growing evidence that women were being driven to steal nappies and food because they were getting fewer benefits. Referring to crime figures in the North-East, the . senior barrister declared: ‘At the end of last year, it was apparent . that people were starting to steal items they could once afford. 'There’s . been growing evidence to suggest this is due to the impact of both . poverty and welfare reform, with people stealing what they were once . able to take for granted and just go out and buy. ‘The growth in . the number of first-time women shoplifting offenders would suggest it’s . affecting the poorer women in our communities, those who are . experiencing the impact of the welfare reforms.’ Adrian Curtis, the foodbank network for the Trussell Trust - a charity which co-ordinates the only nationwide network of food banks in the country - said police had referred people to its food banks, but not necessarily for shoplifting. 'For many years our food banks have partnered with a wide variety of local organisations, whether that's charities or the police,' he told MailOnline. 'From time to time they will see people in genuine crisis who have no option but to go to food banks, they could be the victims of crime, and we trust the judgement of people who refer them to us. 'They may be stealing for different reasons, and with regards to what the PCC was saying, he's talking I would presume about basic items such as bread and milk rather than high end electricals. 'We would trust the police's judgement to sign post people to charities who are best place to support people in a variety of crises.' He added: 'I have launched a food bank in South Wales, we partner with the local police team and from time to time we get referrals but very very few have been down to shoplifting. 'Over the years we have fed more than 10,000 people and less than a handful have come to us with shoplifting issues. 'We have seen an elderly person come to us after committing shoplifting, who was incredibly embarrassed and it was the first time they had committed and offence. They were embarrassed to ask for help.' Volunteer: Felicia Boshorin, the Project Manager at the Southwark Food bank prepares shopping bags of food for those in need . Figures from the Crime Survey for England and Wales, released in April, showed that crime in England and Wales fell by 15 per cent last year compared with 2012. The survey, which tracks all crimes committed by interviewing victims, and as a result includes offences not reported to the police, showed there were 7.5million offences in 2013, down from almost 9million in 2012. There was a 22 per cent fall in household theft, a 15 per cent fall in vandalism and a 4 per cent drop in burglary. However, fraud rose by 25 per cent and shoplifting was up 6 per cent. The Home Office has not responded to a request for comment at the time of publication. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] New figures to show increase in shoplifting by 37 of Britain's 43 police forces . Overall crime rate is falling - although this could be down to falling London figures obscuring rising crime rates in other parts of the country . Police chiefs raise concern over offenders stealing from supermarkets . North Wales PCC suggests sending those arrested to food banks . [/SUMMARY]</s>

New figures to show increase in shoplifting by 37 of Britain's 43 police forces . Overall crime rate is falling - although this could be down to falling London figures obscuring rising crime rates in other parts of the country . Police chiefs raise concern over offenders stealing from supermarkets . North Wales PCC suggests sending those arrested to food banks .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Lydia Warren for MailOnline . and Reuters . A Montana college student whose disappearance prompted a search by hundreds of police and volunteers was found dead from injuries sustained in a car accident in the mountains of central Idaho, authorities said late on Thursday. The body of Lucius Robbi, 21, of Orleans, California, was found in his 1997 Subaru near the remote resort town of Stanley, according to Boise County Sheriff Ben Roeber. Robbi vanished after he set off on August 19 for the University of Montana campus in Missoula from Horseshoe Bend, Idaho, where he had worked as a guide for a second summer at a company that offers trips on the Payette River. Scroll down for video . Have you seen him? Lucius Robbi, 21, left Horseshoe Bend in Idaho last Tuesday but never arrived at the University of Montana. A massive search is now underway for the adventurous student . Vehicle: Robbi drove a green 1997 Subaru Legacy, pictured, and had attached two kayaks to the top . A massive search began across the Idaho wilderness for a 21-year-old student after he failed to turn up for his first day of college. After finishing his summer job in Horseshoe Bend, Idaho last Tuesday, Lucius Robbi, packed up his car and set off for the University of Montana to arrive in time for orientation for his junior year. The outdoor enthusiast had tied two orange kayaks to the top of his green 1997 Subaru Legacy and told relatives and friends he would drive for a while before pulling over to explore the area. The skilled kayaker told co-workers he intended to camp out on Tuesday evening and be on hand the following day for orientation at the university. Surveillance footage shows his car carrying kayaks as it passed a gas station in Garden Valley, Idaho about 20 minutes after he left Horseshoe Bend on Tuesday, ABC News reported. The last ping from his cellphone was detected in the nearby town of Lowman on Tuesday afternoon - but no one heard from him after that point. Search efforts aided by an online campaign tied to a Facebook page called 'Finding Lucius' drew hundreds to hunt for Robbi and his Subaru across vast stretches of mountainous terrain in Idaho and Montana. Robbi's family late on Thursday thanked law enforcement and volunteers in a post on the Facebook page, which had gathered thousands of followers from around the United States. Location: A map shows where he was last seen in Idaho compared to his destination in Missoula, Montana . Active: Robbi, pictured, had worked in Idaho as a raft and kayak guide for the past two summers . Adventurous: Friends and relatives said he planned to camp along the route to university last week . 'You were all amazing, and the overwhelming outpouring of love and the heroic effort you made to find Lucius created a bond between you and all of us that will connect us forever,' the family wrote. The area where Idaho authorities found Robbi's remains borders the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness and is known for whitewater rapids, rock slides, flash floods and deer and elk herds that frequently cross roadways. It has intermittent cellphone service. A call for donations to underwrite search efforts had raised more than $18,000 on a crowd-funding website by Thursday. Spotted: Surveillance footage outside a gas station about 20 minutes into his journey shows his car, with the kayak attached, passing by last Tuesday. His cell phone was also detected shortly afterwards . Concerns: His father Marc told ABC News that he was extremely worried about his 21-year-old son . Robbi, from Orleans, California, had worked as a guide for Cascade Raft and Kayak in Horseshoe Bend for the past two summers and enjoys other extreme sports, including snowboarding. Before his body was found, Robbi's mother Tina Glaessner explained: 'If anyone can survive out there for seven days, he can do it.' Kenneth Long, Robbi's supervisor at Cascade Raft and Kayak, told the Idaho Statesman that he had talked about camping along the way. His coworkers have driven along the route but have seen nothing. 'This is a very troubling and odd situation,' Long said. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Lucius Robbi, 21, has been found dead from injuries he sustained in a car accident . He left Horseshoe Bend in Idaho last Tuesday but never arrived at the University of Montana, which is 340 miles away . The outdoor enthusiast had told friends he planned to camp along the way . Search crews, including helicopters, searched for the student and his car for a week . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Lucius Robbi, 21, has been found dead from injuries he sustained in a car accident . He left Horseshoe Bend in Idaho last Tuesday but never arrived at the University of Montana, which is 340 miles away . The outdoor enthusiast had told friends he planned to camp along the way . Search crews, including helicopters, searched for the student and his car for a week .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Ap Reporter . and Daily Mail Reporter . A woman whose childhood rapes by her uncle were captured on camera and widely traded on the internet wants the Supreme Court to make it easier for victims of child pornography to collect money from people who view the brutal images on their computers. Doyle Randall Paroline, 48, is being sued by a woman for looking at child pornography of her being raped as a child by her uncle . The case being argued at the Supreme Court on Wednesday involves a Texas man who pleaded guilty to having images of children engaged in sex acts on his computer. Doyle Randall Paroline, 48, of Brownsboro, Texas, is appealing an order holding him responsible for the full amount of losses, nearly $3.4 million, suffered by the woman known as Amy. Paroline was arrested in 2009 after an employee at a computer company found sexually explicit images of minors on his computer. Of the 150-300 incriminating images found on Paroline's computer, just two were of Amy. Paroline pleaded guilty and received a 24-month prison sentence, according to The Salt Lake Tribune. Amy, . now her early 20s and living in Pennsylvania, was a child when her . uncle sexually abused her and widely circulated images of the abuse, . according to court records. The . National Center for Missing and Exploited Children said it has found at . least 35,000 images of Amy's abuse in more than 3,200 child pornography . cases since 1998. In at least 174 cases, Amy has been awarded restitution in amounts ranging from $100 to more than $3.5 million. A case before the Supreme Court Washington brought forward by a child pornography victim is vying to change the way such victims can seek restitution from offenders. A woman identified as 'Amy', who was raped by her uncle and the subsequent images circulated online, is seeking $3.4 million from Doyle Randall Paroline, a Texas man found in possession of the images . She has collected more than $1.5 million, one of her attorneys has said. In another case involving Amy and a second woman, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco threw out a restitution order because it found there was not a sufficient link between a man convicted of possessing child pornography and the women. Advocates for child pornography victims say that holding defendants liable for the entire amount of losses better reflects the ongoing harm that victims suffer each time someone views the images online. Last year, the full 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans said in a 10-5 decision that victims do not have to show a link between the crime and their injuries. The threat of a large financial judgment, coupled with a prison term, also might deter some people from looking at the images in the first place, the advocates say. 'The threat that a person in the child . pornography market may well bear the entire cost of the harm done to the . victim, even if they are a ''minor player'', is likely to be a large . deterrent, especially when the harm done typically runs into the . millions for a victim's lifetime of care,' said Marci Hamilton, a law . professor at Yeshiva University. Hamilton wrote a brief in the case on behalf of the American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children. The Washington Supreme Court will take up a case about when victims of child pornography can recover money from people convicted of viewing their abuse . The money is intended to cover the cost of her psychological care, lost income and attorneys' fees. Thirty-four states, dozens of victims' rights and child advocacy groups, local prosecutors and members of Congress are urging the court to uphold the ruling against Paroline by the New Orleans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. No one has intervened on Paroline's behalf. But his lawyer, Stanley Schneider of Houston, said in court papers that there is no link between the restitution ordered by the appeals court and Paroline's conduct. 'An award of $3.4 million against an individual for possessing two images of child pornography is punitive and grossly disproportionate,' Schneider said. The $3.4 million estimate on the damages to the victim was calculated by a psychologist working for James Marsh, an attorney for Amy. The Obama administration is trying to steer a middle course. Solicitor General Donald Verrilli Jr. said the government agrees with Amy that her injury comes from the widespread viewing on the Internet of the assaults by her uncle. 'The real question is whether ... a court must impose all of Amy's aggregate losses on each defendant. On that issue, Amy and the government take different views,' Verrilli told the court. The administration said the correct answer is greater than zero and less than the entire amount and said trial judges should make the determination. The issue centers on the interpretation of the federal law granting restitution to victims of sex crimes, including child pornography. Regardless of the outcome of the court case, Congress could change the law. The U.S. Sentencing Commission recommended that lawmakers consider doing just that to eliminate confusion among federal judges about the right way to calculate restitution. Amy's lawyers estimate that tens of thousands of people worldwide have collected and viewed Amy's images. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Woman, identified as 'Amy', was raped as a child by her uncle, who captured the incident and circulated the images online . Doyle Randall Paroline, of Brownsboro, Texas, pleaded guilty in 2009 to possession of between 150 and 300 child porn images, two of which were of Amy . Amy is now seeking $3.4 million in restitution from Paroline in the Washington Supreme Court . If successful, the precedent would change the way of victims of child pornography would be able to collect damages . Amy has already collected at least $1.5 million from other offenders . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Woman, identified as 'Amy', was raped as a child by her uncle, who captured the incident and circulated the images online . Doyle Randall Paroline, of Brownsboro, Texas, pleaded guilty in 2009 to possession of between 150 and 300 child porn images, two of which were of Amy . Amy is now seeking $3.4 million in restitution from Paroline in the Washington Supreme Court . If successful, the precedent would change the way of victims of child pornography would be able to collect damages . Amy has already collected at least $1.5 million from other offenders .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Seoul, South Korea (CNN) -- North Korea is planning a nuclear test in the area where it has staged previous atomic blasts, according to a report from South Korean intelligence officials obtained by CNN. The intelligence report has come to light as North Korea gets ready to carry out a rocket launch this week, a move that would further strain ties between the reclusive, nuclear-armed state and other countries. The launch is scheduled to take place just months after the ascendancy of its new leader. The South Korean intelligence report says it is probable that after the long-range rocket launch, North Korea will use the ensuing international condemnation as an excuse to go ahead with the nuclear test in Punggye-ri, the site in the country's northeast where the other two tests were conducted in 2006 and 2009. The report, which said such a test would be considered a grave provocation, includes satellite images that it says were shot recently and show the final stages of a tunnel being dug at the site. The photos show an unusual pile of earth and sand near the opening of the tunnel, and the report says this pile has been growing in size since March. North Korean state media outlets have not made an announcement regarding any plans for a new nuclear test. On Monday, White House spokesman Jay Carney said the rocket launch would further isolate the country. "We view the potential rocket launch as a very provocative act that would be, if it were conducted, done in direct violation of North Korea's international obligations," he told reporters. "Any further underground testing would be a provocative action ... in each case, this would be an indication of North Korea's decision, at the leadership level, not to take the steps that are necessary to allow North Korea to end its isolation, to rejoin the community of nations and to do something about the extreme poverty and deprivation that its people suffer from because of the nature of the system they live under and the isolation that they have brought on themselves." He added, "I don't have any specific communications involving the president to report out to you today, but we are very focused on this." Such an act by Pyongyang "would make it virtually impossible for the United States to provide the nutritional assistance that we had planned to provide." A university official sees North Korea's latest moves as calculating. "Once again this shows ... they know how to manipulate the world," said Andrei Lankov of Seoul's Kookmin University. "If they do a missile launch and in a few months a successful nuclear test, especially a uranium-based nuclear device, it will send a very strong message to the world. The same message they always want to deliver: We are here, we are dangerous, unpredictable and it's better to deal with us by giving us monetary and food concessions." In private meetings brokered in part by China, North Korea in February agreed to stop nuclear tests, uranium enrichment and long-range missile launches in exchange for resumption of U.S. food aid. A launch and a test, if carried out, could also derail recent efforts to reconvene the multilateral talks, known as six-party talks, on denuclearizing North Korea. "We believe, in particular, that China joins us in its interest in seeing a denuclearized Korean peninsula, and we are continuing to encourage China, in particular, to act more effectively in that interest," State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland told reporters in Washington. Pyongyang agreed to curtail its nuclear activities in exchange for aid in an agreement reached in talks in September 2005. The deal fell apart after North Korea conducted nuclear tests in 2006 and 2009 and later disclosed a previously unknown uranium enrichment program that provided a second path to a bomb, in addition to the already known plutonium program. The country has designated 2012 as a year of strength and prosperity to mark the 100th anniversary of the birth of Kim Il Sung, the founder of the communist state. His birthday next Sunday, known as the "Day of the Sun," is a key public holiday on the North Korean calendar. Last month, Pyongyang announced it would launch a rocket carrying a satellite sometime between this Thursday and the following Monday to mark the occasion. The North Korean government says the operation is for peaceful purposes. But Japan, the United States and South Korea see the launch as a cover for a long-range ballistic missile test. The South Korean intelligence report noted that shortly before the last two nuclear tests, North Korea launched what it said were satellites into orbit. The act of firing the long-range rocket would breach U.N. Security Council resolutions. Japan has said it will shoot down any part of the rocket that enters its territory. The planned launch is scheduled to take place less than four months after Kim Jong Un became "supreme leader" of North Korea, succeeding his father, Kim Jong Il, who died in December. Analysts are trying to gauge how much influence the younger Kim, thought to be in his late 20s, wields. Senior officials in the regime, including Kim's uncle, Jang Song Taek, are considered to exert considerable sway on policy. North Korea granted a rare glimpse Sunday of its preparations for the rocket launch, taking a group of journalists to the Sohae Satellite Launching Station in Tongchang-ri, in the northwest part of the country. "If you look for yourselves with your own eyes, then you can judge whether it's a ballistic missile, or whether it's a launch vehicle to put a satellite into orbit," Jang Myong Jin, head of the launch site, said through a translator. "That's why we've invited you to this launch site." Journalists -- who were not allowed to take laptops or cell phones to the site, but were permitted to shoot video -- were shown the control center and the satellite that officials said would be shot into space. The rocket itself is 30 meters, or about 100 feet, long. It was white, with red and blue paint. International leaders have urged North Korea to cancel the launch, but Pyongyang has refused to back down, insisting that it needs the satellite to gather information on its crops, forests and weather. An independent European analyst who visited the launch site said he saw nothing obvious that raised red flags. "I don't know what they want to do in the future, but today what we see is a space launcher," Christian Lardier said. Bill Richardson, the former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, said Kim Jong Un may be trying to consolidate his leadership by sending a message to two audiences -- to the international community, he may be trying to establish himself as in charge. But his most important audience is the North Korean military and party leaders, he told CNN. "He's trying to show them that he is not going to buckle down from the United States or the six-party talks or China; that they're going to proceed with this launch; that they're going to proceed with him taking over the leadership of the country." Richardson urged the United States not to react in haste. "Let's see what eventually happens," he said. "This is how the North Koreans operate: They try to send these huge, scary messages by these actions." The last time Pyongyang carried out what it described as a satellite launch, in April 2009, the U.N. Security Council condemned the action and demanded that it not be repeated. China, North Korea's closest ally and largest provider of aid, has expressed concern about the planned launch. Beijing says it has held talks with Pyongyang on the matter, but they appear to have had little effect on the North's plans. "China strongly encourages everyone involved to remain calm and reasonable," said the Chinese foreign minister, Yang Jiechi, according to a report issued Monday by the official Chinese news agency, Xinhua. "These issues need to be worked out in a diplomatic and peaceful manner." Analysts say the planned trajectory of the multistaged rocket's path is north to south over the Yellow Sea, with the main body of the projectile eventually landing in the Pacific Ocean near the Philippines. President Benigno Aquino III of the Philippines has condemned any such launch as a "needless provocation" that could increase tensions in Southeast Asia. CNN's Stan Grant and Elise Labott contributed to this report. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Ex-U.S. ambassador to United Nations: Don't react hastily; "let's see what eventually happens" Professor: The country knows how to "manipulate the world" South Korea intelligence report says North Korea plans nuclear test . North Korea appears to be pressing ahead with its planned rocket launch . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Ex-U.S. ambassador to United Nations: Don't react hastily; "let's see what eventually happens" Professor: The country knows how to "manipulate the world" South Korea intelligence report says North Korea plans nuclear test . North Korea appears to be pressing ahead with its planned rocket launch .

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<s>[ARTICLE] LONDON, England (CNN) -- Imagine every time you closed your curtains, you were capturing enough solar energy to power your laptop. The technology is available, but no one's packaged it up in a handy DIY kit at your local hardware store. Solar textiles use the same technology as traditional solar panels to convert sunlight into energy. Sheila Kennedy hopes to be the first. She's not an interior designer but an architect and professor in practice at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology who is convinced that solar textiles will revolutionize the way we collect and consume power. "I've been thinking about what happens when power and light become flexible, literally flexible," she said. She calls it "soft power," as in the "soft energy path," a term coined Amory Lovins in the 1970s as a way to describe a world where renewable energy would gradually replace the centralized grid. Later, Joseph Nye used the term "soft power" to describe the ability of persuasion, values and culture to influence change. Kennedy's work with soft power builds on both of these ideas. For her , soft power is the ability of flexible materials to convert sunlight into energy. "The soft power approach says there are some incredibly sensual, compelling, beautiful spaces and products that we can be producing using these emerging energy-harvesting materials," Kennedy said. Her Boston-based firm, Kennedy & Violich Architecture, has been working with thin-film photovoltaic material, a fabric that looks and moves like cloth but does the job of a solar panel. "These are materials which can be prepared in the chemistry lab or can be found in nature. They produce electricity when exposed to light. They are very efficient and flexible," she said. "We are pairing the thin-film photovoltaic material with another semi-conductor material, the light-emitting diode; they're two sides of the same coin. One takes a little bit of the energy of sunlight and transforms it into electricity; some takes that electricity and turns it into light." Rechargeable batteries pocketed into the hem of the curtains gather energy that can be downloaded into a larger home battery. "From a technical view, the thin-film has the potential to be produced in very high volumes, with a very low embodied energy and a low carbon footprint. These new photovoltaic materials can be produced in the same way one might print and produce a newspaper, roll to roll. That can make it very affordable," Kennedy said. Its limitations are its performance. It's less efficient that glass-based solar technology, but Kennedy predicts that's going to change. "Right now there's research being done on developing sensitivities in thin-film that will allow the energy to continue to be harvested, even at night. That's going to revolutionize the applications for solar textiles," she said. The current technology can be found hanging in the Vitra Design Museum in Essen, Germany, in a prototype pre-fabricated home called the Soft House. Farther south and west, the designers are taking their ideas from the Soft House and applying them to a research project for a Soft City. Kennedy and her team have calculated that by covering just 10 percent of a roof area in Porto, Portugal, solar curtains could provide as much as 70 percent of the average electricity used by a typical household each day. "It goes to show that you don't need a very large area. We've calculated that 15 square meters would be enough." Kennedy envisions a future in which a single homeowner or a group of neighbors would decide to wean themselves off the centralized grid and power their homes using the energy they've "harvested" themselves from the sun. "You could look at it as a type of urban farming," Kennedy suggested, adding that one of the reasons people aren't doing it now is not the lack of technology but old habits and inherited centralized building systems in architecture. "Instead of tucking way electricity and lights in walls and accessing that with a plug, we have the possibility of thinking of a whole new experience for energy, energy-harvesting and for light." She talks about material that you could reel in from the roof and wrap around to make a new type of instant room, a Zip Room. Plastic wall plugs would cease to exist; instead you'd harness your appliance into the surface or edge of the textile. Her ideas may seem radical to homeowners who don't give much thought to where their power comes from or how much it costs, which is why Kennedy is so keen to see the solar curtains in consumer-friendly packs on hardware store shelves. "Energy-harvesting solar textiles are a very good beginning point. I think that the notion of tying in a new technology with something very familiar really has its advantages if one's about large-scale uptake and widespread adoption of a new energy regime." Regime may sound like a hard word to be used in the context of soft power, but as Kennedy says, it's up to architects and designers to convince homeowners that there are more efficient alternatives to traditional homes. Her firm is going one step further with the offer to work with developers and manufacturers who are interested in building digitally fabricated Soft House demonstration projects. "My team is actively interested in speaking to people who are serious about realizing a pilot program that adapts the Soft House model to actual needs on urban or rural sites. I do think the moment is now." [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Solar-harvesting curtains could convert sunlight into power source for homes . Rechargeable batteries slot into hem, power downloaded to larger battery . Cheap to produce but not as efficient as traditional hard solar panels . "Soft House" curtain concept being expanded into plans for a "Soft City" [/SUMMARY]</s>

Solar-harvesting curtains could convert sunlight into power source for homes . Rechargeable batteries slot into hem, power downloaded to larger battery . Cheap to produce but not as efficient as traditional hard solar panels . "Soft House" curtain concept being expanded into plans for a "Soft City"

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- Former Croatian Prime Minister Ivo Sanader has been arrested in Salzburg, Austria, an Austrian Ministry of Justice spokeswoman said Friday. His arrest came after an international warrant was issued by Croatian prosecutors accusing him of abuse of position and power, according to Croatia's Ministry of Interior. Sanader was arrested on a highway in Salzburg, said the spokeswoman, who works for the extradition division of Austria's Justice Ministry and did not want to be named. Sanader will be extradited to Croatia, according to Croatian state-run HTV. Sanader faces allegations of corruption dating to his years as prime minister from 2003 to 2009, according to prosecutors. A popular, conservative politician, Sanader was a leading member of the Christian Conservative HDZ party founded by Croatia's first post-communist president, Franjo Tudman. Fellow party member Jerko Rosen said Sanader, who left the country on business, will return to Croatia immediately to fight the charges, RTL-Croatia reported. Rosen said he does not know Sanader's whereabouts. Sanader, who has an international passport, has been stripped of any official immunity, RTL reported. He is listed on the Interpol site as a fugitive wanted on fraud and organized crime offenses. Secret U.S. diplomatic cables recently released by the WikiLeaks website allege that kickbacks were being investigated during Sanader's term, and that there "appears to be a new attitude toward allegedly corrupt party members that is strengthening the political will to fight corruption at all levels in the Croatian government and economy." "For the past three years, the Croatian State Prosecutor's Office for the Suppression of Organized Crime and Corruption (USKOK) has been ratcheting up its activity in corruption cases," the cable stated. It is not clear whether Sanader has hired an attorney to represent him. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] NEW: Ivo Sanader was arrested in Salzburg, official says . Sanader is wanted for abuse of position and power in Croatia . A party member claims Sanader will return to Croatia to prove his innocence . Interpol and Croatian prosecutors accuse Sanader of fraud and corruption . [/SUMMARY]</s>

NEW: Ivo Sanader was arrested in Salzburg, official says . Sanader is wanted for abuse of position and power in Croatia . A party member claims Sanader will return to Croatia to prove his innocence . Interpol and Croatian prosecutors accuse Sanader of fraud and corruption .

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<s>[ARTICLE] The Sopranos six season run may be over but's its memory is still very much alive in the funeral home featured on numerous episodes of the popular HBO drama. The Irvine-Cozzarelli Memorial Home in which Tony Soprano attended his mother's funeral is for sale for $1.8 million and is listed by Sroka Worldwide Team at Douglas Elliman. The 8,800+ sq. ft. property in Bellevue, New Jersey includes two kitchens, a freight elevator, and a two-story 10 car garage. Scroll down for video . Saying goodbye: Those who remember Tony Soprano saying goodbye to friends and family on The Sopranos can say hello to the Irvine-Cozzarelli Memorial Home which is on sale for 1.8 million. Ornate: The decorated space can function as more than just a funeral home and has many rooms . HBO hit: The Sopranos ran for six seasons on HBO and sadly the show's star James Gandolfini who plays Tony Soprano (center) died last year . The luxurious space is conveniently located just 11 miles from New York City. 'The Cozzarelli Funeral home is a glowing testimonial to architectural excellence and superiority in design and appointment. Imagine a fine restaurant...private club...dinner theatre...art gallery...exclusive boutique...,' writes the Sroka Worldwide Team at Douglas Elliman Real Estate. Vulture.com reports that location scouts for The Sopranos didn't discover the beautiful funeral home until days before they shot Tony Soprano's mother Livia's farewell. Owner James Cozzarelli said that when his secretary called him to tell him that HBO wanted to know if they could use the home, he thought it was a prank. What formed was a relationship that lasted until the final season. Cozzarelli Jr. was able to gain his Sag-AFTRA card after appearing in nearly every burial scene. Chance discovery: The funeral home's owner says that his space was discovered just days before Tony Soprano's mother Livia's funeral was shot . Relationship: The Sopranos then filmed every funeral at the home thereafter for the rest of the show's run . Sadly James Gandolfini who playedTony Soprano died earlier this year. When the news broke, the show's fans gathered to make a makeshift memorial for him outside of the funeral home. Cozzarelli says that Gandolfini was humble and a creative genius. Locals would cook Italian food for the actor and bring it to him when he was shooting the show. 'All the Italian ladies from the neighborhood would come, and they would make food for him and bring it to the funeral home,' he says. 'He accepted all of it. He was a precious guy.' When asked by Vulture what Cozzarelli's favorite scene was he said the one in which the character Uncle Junior played by Dominic Chianese breaks down and cries. 'He could turn on the emotion of sorrow so magnificently,' remembers Cozzarelli, who says the cast and crew gave Chianese tons of applause. 'It was otherworldly.' What's to come: Despite having once served as a funeral home, the space could be transformed into something new like a supper club or a restaurant . Lasting memory: Though the show nor Tony Soprano are no longer alive the space is a living memory of the show's masterful creation and each actor's genius body of work . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] The Irvine-Cozzarelli Memorial Home in which Tony Soprano attended his mother Livia's funeral is for sale for $1.8 million by Douglas Elliman . The 8,800+ sq. ft. property in New Jersey includes two kitchens, a freight elevator, and a two-story 10 car garage . Funeral owner James Cozzarelli said that Italian women in the neighborhood would cook and bring food to James Gandolfini who played Tony Soprano . Sadly, Gandolfini died last year and the locals made a memorial for him outside the funeral home where he filmed so many episodes . [/SUMMARY]</s>

The Irvine-Cozzarelli Memorial Home in which Tony Soprano attended his mother Livia's funeral is for sale for $1.8 million by Douglas Elliman . The 8,800+ sq. ft. property in New Jersey includes two kitchens, a freight elevator, and a two-story 10 car garage . Funeral owner James Cozzarelli said that Italian women in the neighborhood would cook and bring food to James Gandolfini who played Tony Soprano . Sadly, Gandolfini died last year and the locals made a memorial for him outside the funeral home where he filmed so many episodes .

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<s>[ARTICLE] A Pakistani judge on Friday granted bail to Rimsha, a 14-year-old Christian girl detained over accusations she burned pages of the Quran in a case that has heightened religious tensions in the volatile country. The All Pakistan Minorities Alliance, which represents religious minorities in the country, will pay the sum of roughly $10,000 to secure Rimsha's release from jail, said Tahir Naveed Chaudhry, one of her lawyers and a leading member of the alliance. Judge Muhammad Azam Khan said written details of his decision on the bail application would be released Saturday. It was not immediately clear when Rimsha would be released. The judge's decision came after a lengthy argument Friday between Rimsha's lawyer speaking in court, Pervez Khan, and lawyers representing the accuser. Khan argued Rimsha should be granted bail because she was essentially an innocent girl with a lower than average IQ who was framed by a local cleric who planted evidence against her. The accuser's lawyer argued Rimsha committed blasphemy and should be punished no matter how old she is. Rimsha's family has left their home on the outskirts of Islamabad as a result of the tensions caused by the accusations against her. Police: Muslim cleric framed girl in Pakistan blasphemy case . The case took a dramatic twist over the weekend when the police said a Muslim cleric had planted evidence in order to link her to the blasphemy allegations.The imam, Khalid Jadoon Chishti, will himself face blasphemy charges for tearing pages out of a Quran to use as evidence against the girl, police said. Authorities arrested Rimsha last month after a neighbor accused her of burning pages containing texts from the Muslim holy book. Rimsha had two shopping bags with her: one containing ashes and the other, the partially burned pages, police said. She had gathered the paper as fuel for cooking, authorities said. Even though Rimsha's lawyer said no one actually saw the girl burning the papers, the neighbor went to Chishti -- the neighborhood cleric -- with the bags for safekeeping as evidence. Chishti wasn't certain that simply burning pages with texts from the Quran would be enough to convict Rimsha on blasphemy charges, the police said. So, the imam added two pages from the holy book itself to the bag to bolster the case, according to the police . Chishti was arrested on Saturday after three witnesses told a judge about the imam's actions. He was sent to jail for 14 days, accused of evidence tampering. Chishti has denied the allegation, authorities said. Opinion: Muslims in Pakistan, show compassion and justice . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] The girl has been in jail since last month after she was accused by a neighbor . The neighbor says she burned pages of the Quran, the Muslim holy book . A religious minorities alliance will pay her $10,000 bail fee . A Muslim cleric has been accused of planting evidence against her . [/SUMMARY]</s>

The girl has been in jail since last month after she was accused by a neighbor . The neighbor says she burned pages of the Quran, the Muslim holy book . A religious minorities alliance will pay her $10,000 bail fee . A Muslim cleric has been accused of planting evidence against her .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Nigel Farage today defended a disgraced Ukip candidate taped mocking ‘poofters’, referring to a Chinese woman as a ‘Chinky bird’ and threatening to ‘shoot peasants’. The Ukip leader said he felt sorry for ‘loutish’ Kerry Smith, who was a ‘rough diamond’ and meant no ‘malice’ with the comments, which were not considered offensive in TV shows like Only Fools and Horses. Mr Farage hit back at claims it was not further proof that Ukip is racist and homophobic, claiming people who live in London are ‘snobbish’ about ‘colloquial language’ which is common amongst people who live in council houses. Scroll down for video . Ukip leader said he felt sorry for ‘loutish’ Kerry Smith, who was a ‘rough diamond’ and meant no ‘malice’ with the comments . Mr Farage said Mr Smith (right) was not suitable to be a Ukip candidate, but was only speaking like people outside 'snobbish' London . Ukip has had a torrid few weeks, dogged by in-fighting over candidate selection and gaffes by Mr Farage which have seen his personal ratings plummet to a record low. The party’s general secretary Roger Bird was suspended over allegations of behaving inappropriately towards candidate Natasha Bolter, including taking her for dinner and buying her a dress. She had been a front runner for the seat of South Basildon and East Thurrock, but after pulling out of the race, Mr Smith was selected. But days later, tape-recorded phone calls made by Mr Smith emerged in which he: . Mr Farage initially refused to sack Mr Smith, with Ukip insiders hoping an apology would help the row to ‘blow over’. But he stood down on Monday ‘by mutual consent’. However, today Mr Farage leapt to Mr Smith’s defence, insisting that there was nothing ‘evil’ about his comments. The Ukip leader told LBC radio: ‘I’m a bit sad because Kerry Smith is a rough diamond, a council house boy from the east end of London, left school early, and talks and speaks in a way that a lot of people from that background do. ‘If you and your mates are going out for a Chinese what do you say you are going for?’ When host Nick Ferrari insisted he would not use the word ‘Chinky’, Mr Farage insisted: ‘A lot of people would… I don’t think I’ve ever used that word. ‘The point is this: I feel a bit sorry for Kerry Smith, I think even the poofter comment – the next sentence he was saying how good the candidate was and the fact he was gay would be an asset to the party. ‘I think he has had a tough time. However, he is not suitable to be a parliamentary candidate. ‘I think we are very snobbish in London about condemning people perhaps for the colloquial language they use particularly if it’s not meant with really unpleasant intent.’ Nigel Farage today insisted he was only joking when he blamed immigrants for a traffic jam on the M4. The Ukip leader was mocked this month for the bizarre excuse for turning up late to an event where party members had been charged £25 to meet him. He complained at the time: 'It took me six hours and 15 minutes in the car to get here. It should have taken three-and-half to four. 'That has nothing to do with professionalism. What is does have to do with is a country in which the population is going through the roof, chiefly because of open door immigration and the fact the M4 is not as navigable as it used to be.' But today he denied believing immigration policy affected his traffic flows: 'It was a joke, I’ve learned something. Never joke. 'There’s no point is there? Nobody has a sense of humour any more so there is no point doing that. A month of gaffes by Nigel Farage has led to a slump in voter satisfaction with the Ukip leader. Rows over breastfeeding, immigrants causing traffic jams and demanding a wreath at the Cenotaph have combined with allegations of a sex scandal involving the party's general secretary and a candidate. The new IpsosMori survey puts net satisfaction – the percentage of voters satisfied minus the percentage dissatisfied - in Mr Farage's performance as Ukip leader is at its lowest ever level at -20. Only 33 per cent are satisfied and 53 per cent dissatisfied. This is down from a net score of -6 last month, and down sharply on positive ratings of 11 seen in May last year. But Mr Farage questioned the credibility of IpsosMori, adding: 'I know that personal ratings are a fickle thing, and this is a very, very volatile time that we are in.' However, he conceded: 'We’ve had a difficult couple of weeks.' Mr Smith initially suggested that he had been under great stress at the time of the controversial comments and was taking strong pain killers. He blamed the rant on 'strong morphine based prescription medication for a back injury'. Mr Farage tried to laugh off the excuse, adding: ‘I haven’t found sedatives have had that effect on me I have to say. ‘I might have said a few things after other forms of medication that perhaps I shouldn’t have done, but then again we all have haven’t we?’ Mr Farage went on: ‘Kerry himself said that he used language that Del Boy used to use on Only Fools and Horses and nobody objected then. ‘Kerry Smith is not fit to be a parliamentary candidate. I don’t think that in the comments he used he meant malice, that’s the point I’d make.’ Lib Dem Deputy PM Nick Clegg yesterday dismissed Ukip as 'just a movement of angry blokes' trying to become a political party. On his LBC Radio phone-in show Mr Clegg said: 'Of all the excuses for this kind of bile and racist, homophoboic vitriol - 'I was on a sedative' - most people on a sedative don't become Alf Garnett on stilts, do they? Most people on sedatives go to sleep. 'But apparently if you are in Ukip, if you are on a sedative, you just become even more unpleasant.' The latest IpsosMori survey reveals a dramatic fall in net satisfaction with Nigel Farage as Ukip leader . After a difficult few weeks of infighting, scandals and gaffes, Nigel Farage could be forgiven for seeking a little divine intervention. As the Ukip leader left the LBC studios this morning he was photobombed by Kevin Lee Light, aka Jesus of Hollywood. The professional Jesus impersonator, who arrived in the UK from LA this week, appeared in the background of photos in central London . But Mr Farage hit back: ‘Thus spoke the man from Westminster school, of vast wealth and the European College in Bruges. ‘If he looked a bit more closely what he would see is we had seven women elected to the European Parliament this year without using all female shortlists. They did it absolutely on merit, with no advantage given to them whatsoever. ‘Nick can abuse us all he likes, I’m not going to return the compliment.’ He insisted that people with offensive views make up a ‘very small proportion’ of Ukip members and candidates. ‘We do not have a monopoly on stupidity, I promise you.’ Mr Farage courted controversy last month when he waded into the row over breastfeeding in public, after a mother at the London hotel Claridge's was asked to cover her baby's head with a napkin. He suggested mothers of newborn babies should avoid being 'openly ostentatious' when breastfeeding and might think about sitting in a corner when doing so. Sex education policy confusion . Dec 3: Nigel Farge: 'I've never advocated that policy. If somebody in Ukip in the past did, well, so be it, but I think that people need to have a rounded education and sex education is part of that.'  The party's website stated:  'Scrap sex and relationship education for children under the age of 11.' Ostentatious breastfeeding . Dec 5: Nigel Farage: 'It isn't too difficult to breastfeed a baby in a way that isn't ostentatious.' Immigrants causing traffic jams . Dec 6: Nigel Farage: 'It took me six hours and 15 minutes in the car to get here. It should have taken three-and-half to four. 'That has nothing to do with professionalism. What is does have to do with is a country in which the population is going through the roof, chiefly because of open door immigration and the fact the M4 is not as navigable as it used to be.' General secretary sex scandal . Dec 8: Ukip general secretary Roger Bird suspended over allegations of impropriety with candidate Natasha Bolter. He claims they slept together, she denies it. Doubts later emerge about her CV, with Oxford denying she studied there and questions about her teaching qualifications . Rate an immigrant game . Dec 13: A Ukip game asks supporters to rate 'blacks, Muslims and Eastern Europeans' in a game – with prizes of cash and a Ukip golf umbrella. Weeding out the lunatics . Dec 14: Ukip candidates chief David Soutter: 'Half my job is spent not finding good candidates to stand, it is weeding out the lunatics, the people who shouldn't be there.' Candidate quits over 'poofter' comments . Dec 15: Kerry Smith forced to quit as Ukip candidate in South Basildon and East Thurrock after being taped mocking gay party members as 'poofters', joking about shooting people from Chigwell in a 'peasant hunt' and referring to someone as a 'Chinky bird'. Taking money from Brussels . Dec 16: Ukip secures a £1.5 million pot of taxpayers' cash by forming a new European-wide political party. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Ukip leader says Kerry Smith meant no 'malice' or 'evil' with comments . Smith had been chosen to stand as candidate in Basildon South seat . Referred to 'disgusting old poofters' and a Chinese woman as 'a Chinky' He quit this week, blaming 'prescription medication for a back injury' Farage said comments were no worse than Only Fools and Horses . Says people who live in London are ‘snobbish’ about ‘colloquial language’ Ukip leader insists claim immigrants cause traffic jams was a joke . Brushes off poll showing dramatic collapse in his personal popularity . Mocked ‘f***ing disgusting old poofter’ who belong to a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning group, calling them ‘BLTs’ – bacon, lettuce and tomato. Joked about ‘shooting peasants’ and mocks Ukip activist Lucy Bostick for printing ‘boring c**p’ on her leaflets. Referred to a woman with a Chinese name as a ‘Chinky bird' [/SUMMARY]</s>

Ukip leader says Kerry Smith meant no 'malice' or 'evil' with comments . Smith had been chosen to stand as candidate in Basildon South seat . Referred to 'disgusting old poofters' and a Chinese woman as 'a Chinky' He quit this week, blaming 'prescription medication for a back injury' Farage said comments were no worse than Only Fools and Horses . Says people who live in London are ‘snobbish’ about ‘colloquial language’ Ukip leader insists claim immigrants cause traffic jams was a joke . Brushes off poll showing dramatic collapse in his personal popularity . Mocked ‘f***ing disgusting old poofter’ who belong to a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning group, calling them ‘BLTs’ – bacon, lettuce and tomato. Joked about ‘shooting peasants’ and mocks Ukip activist Lucy Bostick for printing ‘boring c**p’ on her leaflets. Referred to a woman with a Chinese name as a ‘Chinky bird'

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Victoria Woollaston . PUBLISHED: . 13:25 EST, 8 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 13:25 EST, 8 November 2013 . While the likes of Google, Amazon and Apple are trying to make tablets smaller and thinner, Panasonic has decided to buck this trend with a giant touchscreen device. The Toughpad is a 20-inch 4K tablet - almost three times the size of Google’s Nexus 7 - and runs Windows software. It also weighs over 5lbs, which is five times heavier than Apple’s new iPad Air, but is just half an inch thick. Panasonic unveiled its Toughpad tablet, pictured, earlier this year and has now announced the 20-inch device will go on sale in the U.S in January. UK prices and release dates haven't been confirmed.The tablet's screen is three times bigger than Google's Nexus 7, and it weighs five times more than Apple's iPad Air . Screen: 20" Resolution: 3,840 x 2,560 . PPI: 230 . Processor: Intel i5 1.9GHz . Memory: 8GB RAM . Storage: 256GB . Battery life: Two hours . The huge size and screen also means the device comes with a two-hour battery life despite costing $5,999. Panasonic hasn’t designed the tablet for consumers, though. Instead it is aiming the device at hospitals, museums, architects and construction sites. It is called Toughpad because it has been made of reinforced glass fibre and has a magnesium alloy case. The 4K technology in the screen has been dubbed the next-generation in high-quality displays, and the Toughpad has a resolution of 3,840 x 2,560. This gives it a pixel-per-inch density of 230, putting it slightly above the quality of Apple’s 13-inch Macbook Pro. The tablet additionally has an Intel i51.9Ghz processor, 8GB of RAM and comes with 256GB of built-in storage -  the same amount offered on high-end Apple iPads and Google’s 12.85-inch Chromebook Pixel. Panasonic is aiming the device, pictured, at hospitals, museum, architects and construction sites. It is called Toughpad because it has been made of reinforced glass fibre and has a magnesium alloy case. The 4K technology in the screen has been dubbed the next-generation in high-quality displays . Bill Mannion, Microsoft’s director of Windows Consumer Marketing said: ‘This is as close as I’ve ever seen to real life on a display. It literally is like looking out of the window.' Panasonic is also offering an Electronic Touch Pen that works like a stylus, similar to Samsung’s S-Pen. It is said to give 2,000 levels of pressure by using infrared signals and Bluetooth to analyse and read the screen’s individual pixels, making it highly accurate and responsive. Panasonic is not the first company to launch a 20-inch device; HP recently launched a giant tablet called the HP Envy Rove 20. It is almost twice the weight of Panasonic's Toughpad, at 12.27lbs, and the screen resolution is 1,600 x 900, yet because of the lower-quality features and age it costs a much cheaper $979. Panasonic is aiming the device, pictured, at hospitals, museum, architects and construction sites. It is called Toughpad because it has been made of reinforced glass fibre and has a magnesium alloy case. The 4K technology in the screen has been dubbed the next-generation in high-quality displays . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Panasonic’s 4K tablet has a 20-inch screen and weighs 5lbs . It's three times the size of a Nexus 7 and five times heavier than an iPad Air . The Toughpad is made of glass fibre and has a magnesium alloy case . Customers in the U.S can buy the giant device from January for $5,999 . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Panasonic’s 4K tablet has a 20-inch screen and weighs 5lbs . It's three times the size of a Nexus 7 and five times heavier than an iPad Air . The Toughpad is made of glass fibre and has a magnesium alloy case . Customers in the U.S can buy the giant device from January for $5,999 .

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<s>[ARTICLE] A gaffe-prone crime tsar is under police investigation for allegedly driving without insurance, putting her under fresh pressure to resign. Ann Barnes’s Mercedes collided with another car and then ploughed into a tree, and The Mail on Sunday can reveal she is now being investigated by the force she holds to account, Kent Police. If she is found guilty of the insurance charge, she could be fined £300 and hit with six penalty points on her licence. Scroll down for video . Ann Barnes' insurance was allegedly expired when her soft-top Mercedes collided with another car and a tree . Mrs Barnes, 69, also faces a probe by the police watchdog for alleged misconduct in a public office, as she was on official business when the accident took place. The independent Police and Crime Commissioner, who is paid £85,000 a year, was last night facing renewed calls to step down following a series of debacles that have damaged the reputation of Kent Police and the troubled policy of elected crime tsars. Mrs Barnes’s latest troubles began on September 16 when her soft-top Mercedes crashed into another car and then a tree as she drove to a meeting in Dartford. She suffered only minor injuries and later tweeted: ‘Not feeling too bright today, but OK.’ Asked what had happened, she replied to one person: ‘Hit an unforgiving tree! Shaken, sore and bruised, but thankfully OK.’ After the accident, Mrs Barnes was given a ‘producer’ by local officers, which meant she had to report to a police station within seven days with both parts of her driving licence, her MoT certificate and valid insurance. This is common procedure after a road traffic accident. Sources allege that Mrs Barnes’s insurance had expired – making it a criminal offence for her to be driving. ‘She had to produce her documents and she didn’t have a valid insurance certificate,’ an insider said. Kent Police alerted the local scrutiny board, and Mrs Barnes’s own office referred the matter to the Independent Police Complaints Commission. Mrs Barnes has faced criticism of her £85,000-a-year role as Kent police commissioner, and was mocked for her van - called Ann Force 1 - which she drove around the county . Mrs Barnes also came under fire for hiring Paris Brown as her youth crime commissioner shortly after being elected for the job. Yhe 17-year-old stepped down after it emerged she had posted indecent remarks online . The latest fiasco comes amid growing calls for all 41 PCCs across England and Wales to be scrapped. Labour and the Lib Dems say they would abandon the experiment, which cost taxpayers £75million to set up. Even Home Secretary Theresa May admits some PCCs ‘have been responsible for mistakes and errors of judgement’ and backs the idea of voters being given the power to recall any who are failing. Kent Police said: ‘No one has been charged or cautioned in relation to the collision. Inquiries are ongoing.’ A spokesman for Mrs Barnes said: ‘We can confirm that the chair of the PCC was made aware of a referral from Kent Police following an investigation into a collision in Princes Road, Dartford. 'The matter was passed to the monitoring officer at the office of the PCC for further consideration. The monitoring officer has subsequently referred the matter to the Independent Police Complaints Commission.’ [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Mrs Barnes' soft-top Mercedes collided with another car and a tree . The Kent police commissioner was allegedly driving without insurance . If found guilty she could be fined £600 and hit with six penalty points . Police watchdog is also investigating as she was on official business . Calls are growing for the crime tsar roles to be scrapped . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Mrs Barnes' soft-top Mercedes collided with another car and a tree . The Kent police commissioner was allegedly driving without insurance . If found guilty she could be fined £600 and hit with six penalty points . Police watchdog is also investigating as she was on official business . Calls are growing for the crime tsar roles to be scrapped .

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<s>[ARTICLE] These pictures show a scientist being savagely beaten up in the street by two drunken thugs after he dared to make friendly conversation with them at the end of a night out. CCTV images captured the moment Dr Dominic Henry, 32, paid a terrible price for engaging in small talk with strangers Alan Croydon and Arron Buckley as he waited to get a cab home in Manchester city centre. For no reason, Dr Henry was punched to the ground and then kicked and stamped on up to 15 times 'with deadly intent' as he lay defenceless on the ground. Scroll down for video . Attack: These pictures show the savage and unprovoked assault endured by a scientist in Manchester city centre in December . Blows raining down: Dr Dominic Henry was punched to the ground and then kicked and stamped on up to 15 times . The senior metallurgist, who works as a senior technical project leader for a chemical firm, was left with a badly bruised and swollen face and 'dips' in his scalp. He managed to get home and when his wife, an NHS manager, saw his beaten face she began crying. He was admitted to hospital for a brain scan and later feared he would lose his job after having to hold key meetings with global leading aerospace companies whilst nursing a black eye. The victim now believes the streets of home city will always 'pose a danger beyond many expectations'. In a statement Dr Henry - who works with Manchester Metropolitan University - said: 'Not being a small guy I naively felt I would be okay. 'I was talking to them for a few minutes before they started punching. The fear began to build in me as one punched me from the side. Thug: Alan Croydon was locked away for 12 months after pleading guilty to assault occasioning actual body harm. Dr Dominic Henry said the sustained attack was 'terrifying' 'It felt surreal. Scary. I lay there while they kicked and stamped on my head. I couldn't believe it. The attack was brutal, violent, beyond the scope of my imagination. 'I could not comprehend how another human being could be so vicious and with such deadly intent without any just cause. As the kicks and stamps reigned down, thud thud thud, I wondered how long it would last. 'I could feel the pain on my hands, arms and head. I was scared. They really wanted to hurt and damage me. It was terrifying. 'Never did I think this would be part of our lives, having to go through tests including a CT scan felt intimidating. I was an innocent, hardworking man that didn't deserve what I got.' He added . that he had felt 'embarrassed' about his injuries and that the events of . the night had nearly taken away his successful career because his . black eye had 'not looked good professionally'. He . added: 'I just want to feel confident again but worry that the streets . of Manchester will always pose a danger beyond many expectations.' Dr . Henry spoke out as Croydon, 25, from Manchester, was locked away for 12 . months after pleading guilty to assault occasioning actual body harm. A . warrant was issued with for Buckley, also 25, who has gone on the . run. The case comes as Inspector Ian Hanson, 47, of Greater Manchester . Police said he himself would not go out in Manchester after midnight . because it is 'too dangerous'. Manchester . Crown Court was told the unprovoked attack occurred last December after . Dr Henry had been out socialising with friends at the Malmaison Hotel . and a bar the city's trendy Northern Quarter district. The victim had work commitments the following morning and left early to hail a cab home but stopped when he came across Croydon, Buckley and a third man loitering on a street corner. They began talking to him and spoke briefly to them only for his heart to begin 'racing' when the thugs suddenly turned on him. Prosecuting, John Wilcox said: 'At first the conversation seemed to be pleasant enough. It clearly turned worse and then he was subject to the initial punch by Croydon. 'His co-accused then got involved. He was kicked to the ground at which stage he says things became blurry. He could feel the punches to his head and body.' Out of the blue: The men were seen chatting amiably before Alan Croydon launched his vicious assault . The senior metallurgist, who works as a senior technical project leader for a chemical firm, was left with a badly bruised and swollen face and 'dips' in his scalp . The judge said that Croydon was 'very, very lucky' that his attack didn't seriously injure the scientist - or worse . He added that Croydon initially struck five times to his head and body whilst Buckley hit him ten times. Mr Wilcox added: 'But to compound matters, both returned to the victim and attacked him.' The court heard that Croydon kicked the scientist a further three times before leaving the scene. Dr Henry had to use a handkerchief to wipe the blood from his lip before phoning his wife before making his way home and reporting it to the police the following day. He added that although he returned to work the next day, his wife's work suffered and had also had an impact on her team. The court heard Croydon had been drunk on brandy following an all-day drinking session. He was previously given a suspended sentence for a racially aggravated public order offence in 2011 and was subject to a community order in 2012 for possession of cannabis. This still from the CCTV footage shows the scientist being attacked as he attempts to stagger to his feet . Defence counsel Mr Steve Tettey said that his client had 'a reliance on alcohol' and added: 'There can be no dispute on the culpability. For Mr Henry the psychological scars will remain long after his black eye heals. 'There is no good explanation for the defendant's conduct, the truth is he was so intoxicated, he had consumed over eight brandies having drunk substantially during the day. He cannot recall the incident he was so intoxicated.' But the judge Mr Recorder Charles Garside QC told Croydon: 'You took part in what appears to have been a completely unprovoked attack on a stranger in Manchester city centre. 'It goes without saying this was in the hours of darkness, you struck the first blow and you and your confederate used shod feet and fists. 'This was a sustained and repeated assault. You take a leading role in the attack and you used shod feet as a weapon. 'The really aggravating factor is having kicked him to the ground, left him lying in the pavement and starting to move away, you and another went back and went kicking and stamping on him again. 'The thing that marks this assault out is the fact that you returned to a man who was dazed and unable to defend himself. 'You were very, very lucky that no greater harm was done.' After the case Det Con Paul Wilde from Greater Manchester Police said: 'These two men viciously attacked an innocent man as he walked home after a Christmas party. 'The CCTV clearly shows the ferocity of this attack and the man was very lucky to have walked away with minor injuries. 'Croydon and Buckley subjected the man to an unprovoked and violent attack and such disgraceful acts will not be tolerated.' [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Dr Dominic Henry was punched to the ground, kicked and stamped on . He said attack was 'violent beyond the scope of my imagination' Alan Croydon, 25, jailed for a year after admitting assault . One officer says he would no longer go into central Manchester late at night . Inspector Ian Hanson said police cannot guarantee revellers' safety . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Dr Dominic Henry was punched to the ground, kicked and stamped on . He said attack was 'violent beyond the scope of my imagination' Alan Croydon, 25, jailed for a year after admitting assault . One officer says he would no longer go into central Manchester late at night . Inspector Ian Hanson said police cannot guarantee revellers' safety .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Former Brazil and Barcelona midfielder Ronaldinho, twice the World Player of the Year, has signed a two year deal with Queretaro, the Mexican first division club said on Friday. The 34-year-old, who has also played for Paris St Germain and AC Milan, became a free agent in July after cancelling his contract with Brazilian club Atletico Mineiro. ‘We are very pleased to add to our ranks as of today, a player who has excelled in international football. A world champion in 2002, World Player of the Year in 2004 and 2005,’ the club, nicknamed ‘Gallos’ (roosters) said in the statement. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Goals, tricks and flicks: Ronaldinho's Mineiro highlights . Gallos: Ronaldinho has agreed a two-year contract with Mexican side Queretaro . Bargain: The Brazil legend left Atletico Mineiro as a free agent after cancelling his contract . ‘We hope the fans of our city and around the country join in this celebration of having Ronaldinho as a Gallos who will contribute his experience and expertise to further strengthen this great team.’ Queretaro, coached by former Mexico defender Ignacio Ambriz, are currently eighth in Liga MX after seven matches in the championship. Fding force: Ronaldinho was not selected for the World Cup and was offered a deal by lowly Basingstoke . Ronaldinho, who was linked with numerous clubs around the world, said he would wear the number 49 shirt in Mexico as it was his lucky number. ‘I’ve always been received with affection in Mexico - I am very motivated to represent Queretaro,’ he posted on his Twitter account. The news will come as a blow to Basingstoke Town after the club offered the Brazil legend the chance to end his illustrious career in the Conference South - including the price of flights and accommodation, according to the Basingstoke Gazzette. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Ronaldinho has signed for Liga MX side Queretaro on a two-year contract . Brazilan has played for PSG, Barcelona, AC Milan and Atletico Mineiro . The 34-year-old was offered a move to Conference side Basingstoke Town . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Ronaldinho has signed for Liga MX side Queretaro on a two-year contract . Brazilan has played for PSG, Barcelona, AC Milan and Atletico Mineiro . The 34-year-old was offered a move to Conference side Basingstoke Town .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Simon Tomlinson . PUBLISHED: . 03:02 EST, 3 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 04:59 EST, 3 January 2014 . When you're hunting burglars, armed robbers and one or two suspected terrorists, there isn't much time for sentiment. But the rigours of life on the frontline hasn't stopped police dog handlers Damian Smart, 37, and Lindsay Whitehouse, 33, falling in love and tying the knot. The couple, who work together in the West Midlands Police Dog Unit, have now celebrated their marriage in fitting style with their canine companions right by their side. From the front line to down the aisle: Police dog handlers Damian Smart and Lindsay Whitehouse pictured with the vicar after their special wedding blessing ceremony alongside trusty canine companions Shadow and Nina . Without their dogs on the big day: The couple got married last month, but their canines were not allowed in the wedding venue because the church did not have kennels . Since they met four years ago, they have used their . dog handling skills to track down race-hate killer Pavlo Lapshyn who . attempted to bomb mosques in the Black Country last year. The couple got married last month, although their trusted canines were banned from the wedding venue because the church did not have kennels. But they let their police hounds take part in a special blessing ceremony yesterday. Lindsay, who has been with the force since 2007, was walked down the aisle by her trust police dog Nina while Damian's 'best man' was his six-year-old German Shepherd Shadow. Declaring their love for each other: The couple, who met three years ago, took part at a special wedding blessing ceremony at West Midlands Police's dog training centre in Balsall Common, West Midlands . They took part at a special wedding . blessing ceremony at West Midlands Police's dog training centre in . Balsall Common, West Midlands. The couple, from Wednesbury, are the first married couple to work at the force's dog unit. Damian, who met Lindsay in January . 2010 on a police dog training refresher course, said: 'We're both dog . lovers - we have five between us, including our police dogs - but as the . wedding venue didn't have kennelling facilities it wasn't possible for . them to be involved on our big day. 'Plus paw prints wouldn't have looked good on Lindsay's white dress. 'Because dogs play such a big part in our lives - and that it's the first time two handlers have tied the knot - we wanted to get them involved. 'So we arranged a special wedding blessing with a police chaplain; Shadow and Nina were impeccably behaved and were the perfect guests.' Jailed: Ukranian born Pavlo Lapshyn faces 40 . years in prison for the murder of Mohammed Saleem, 82, who he stabbed as . he walked home from prayers, and also planting a series of bombs . outside mosques . In their line of duty, the couple helped . track down Pavlo Lapshyn, who was jailed for 40 years in October after . murdering a pensioner and bombing three mosques in a racist hate . campaign. They . have also carried out high-security sweeps of the Conservative and . Labour Party conferences as well as tours of Northern Ireland. Shadow . has caught more than 30 crime suspects in his three-year career to date . including a car-jacker, a robber who stole a cabbie's takings and . torched his taxi and, just two weeks ago, a man wanted over an armed . security van raid. He was . also in the thick of 2011's summer riots, helping bring order to the . region's streets, and has helped keep order at several English Defence . League protests. Meanwhile Nina has only been operational for a matter of months but has already caught a suspected burglar. Damian . added: 'Recently Nina led Lindsay to a burglary suspect who tried to . evade capture by hiding on a flat roof 25ft up and she's proved . rock-solid during the EDL violence in July where she stood her ground in . the face of aggression and missiles.' [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Damian Smart, 37, and Lindsay Whitehouse, 33, met in dog unit in 2010 . Lindsay walked down aisle by canine colleague Nina at blessing ceremony . Damian's 'best man' was his six-year-old German Shepherd Shadow . They got married last month, but dogs were not allowed in the church . Helped catch mosque bomber Pavlo Lapshyn who was jailed for 40 years . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Damian Smart, 37, and Lindsay Whitehouse, 33, met in dog unit in 2010 . Lindsay walked down aisle by canine colleague Nina at blessing ceremony . Damian's 'best man' was his six-year-old German Shepherd Shadow . They got married last month, but dogs were not allowed in the church . Helped catch mosque bomber Pavlo Lapshyn who was jailed for 40 years .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Jennifer Newton for MailOnline . French president Francois Hollande has led the tributes to allied forces who helped to liberate France's Mediterranean coastline 70 years ago today. The so-called southern landings during the Second World War, saw a total 450,000 troops and 881 warships land on the beaches of Provence to liberate the towns and cities including Toulon, Marseilles and eventually Cannes. The landings came just 10 weeks after the D-Day invasion of Normandy and helped to squeeze the Nazi occupiers in the country, hastening the German defeat and the end of the conflict. Francois Hollande unveils a memorial plaque paying tribute to the forces who helped liberate southern France during World War II . Mr Hollande arrives with French officials to a ceremony to pay tribute to those who took part in the Southern Landings . Troops including those from the U.S. and former French colonies in Africa took part in the invasion, code named Operation Dragoon and all took part in today's anniversary memorial in Toulon, where Mr Hollande unveiled a memorial plaque. Twenty warships, including the USS Mount Whitney, two British minesweepers, and ships from Tunisia, Algeria and Morocco today joined a naval parade off the beaches of Provence. A special homage was also paid to the tens of thousands African troops recruited by colonisers to fight the Nazis. Fifteen African leaders, some of whom have strained relations with the former colonial power, were invited to Friday's events. In a speech, Mr Hollande said: 'France ... is a nation that takes its responsibility to assure the security of Europe but also security in the world, and to act wherever we are asked to act for peace.' Troops of the 1st Airborne Parachute Task Force parachute into southern France during the Southern Landings in France during the Second World War . The ruins of La Seyne Sur Mer in France after being bombed in August 1944 during Operation Dragoon . American Sergeant Douglas C. Dillard points his rifle in the French Alps after participating in the invasion in southern France, which led to the liberation of the country . On the evening of August 15, 1944, some 100,000 men landed on the beaches of southern France. Initially it was planned that the landings would co-incide with those in the north of the country but a lack of landing craft meant it was postponed. Ten weeks later, troops from the U.S. and the African colonies landed on Alpha and Delta beaches after French resistance fighters damaged communication and transport networks. Many of the German troops, made up from German-occupied teritories quickly surrendered and the allied forces then went on to capture Camel beach. As more and more allied troops arrived on the beaches the Germans began to withdraw and three days later, Digne was liberated closely followed by Grenoble. In his speech, Mr Hollande said: 'France ... is a nation that takes its responsibility to assure the security of Europe but also security in the world, and to act wherever we are asked to act for peace . The French president had earlier arrived in Toulon for the unveiling ceremony on a Super Puma helicopter . The American forces then pushed northwards while battles raged to take back the cities of Toulon and Marseilles and they were both liberated on August 27, 1944. Allied troops then continued to push northwards as the Germans were unable to dislodge them. Two weeks later Montélimar and Lyon were liberated and by September 20, ports in Marseille and Toulon were re-opened again to shipping. A total of 7,000 Allied troops were killed and 10,000 were wounded during the operation. A ceremony dedicated to U.S. troops will take place at the American cemetery of Draguignan on Saturday. Today's celebrations come just weeks after the 70th anniversary of D-Day where world leaders including U.S. President Barack Obama and the Queen attended a ceremony in Northern France. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Francois Hollande unveiled plaque to commemorate efforts of allied troops . Forces helped to liberate France's Mediterranean coastline 70 years ago . Veterans from the U.S. and former African colonies attended the event . Comes just weeks after the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Francois Hollande unveiled plaque to commemorate efforts of allied troops . Forces helped to liberate France's Mediterranean coastline 70 years ago . Veterans from the U.S. and former African colonies attended the event . Comes just weeks after the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- And that's not such a good thing. Today's kids are less fit than their parents were at the same age, according to new research presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions, and that could mean health problems later on. The fact that younger kids are huffing and puffing more than their parents did at their age doesn't just mean they aren't in shape. It's also a red flag that they may more vulnerable to certain chronic diseases as adults. Researchers from the University of South Australia's School of Health Sciences analyzed and compared 50 studies on children's running fitness between the years 1964 and 2010. The studies included about 25 million kids between the ages 9 and 17 in 28 different countries. The researchers recorded running times over a specific time frame -- typically about five to 15 minutes -- or over a certain distance -- a half mile to two miles. They found that over the 46 years, the cardiovascular endurance -- measured by the times it took to run the various distances -- among kids declined significantly. From 1970 to 2000, U.S. children's cardiovascular endurance fell about 6% per decade, and among all countries, it fell about 5% each decade. In other words, today, kids are 15% less fit than their parents were, and in the mile run, kids are about a minute and a half slower than children were 30 years ago. TIME.com: Study: More active teens get higher test scores . The researchers say that cardiovascular fitness is one of the most important factors for good health, not just in childhood but in adulthood as well. "If a young person is generally unfit now, then they are more likely to develop conditions like heart disease later in life," said lead study author Grant Tomkinson in a statement. Currently, the Centers for Disease Control recommends that children get at least an hour of daily activity that involves the entire body, such as running, biking or swimming. Not only does the exercise benefit the body, but research shows that kids who are more physically active tend to do better in school too. This story was initially published on TIME.com. Are you fitter than your fifth grader? Yes, you probably are . &copy 2012 TIME, Inc. TIME is a registered trademark of Time Inc. Used with permission. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Kids today are less fit than their parents were at the same age, research shows . That could put them at risk for chronic diseases as adults . The CDC recommends kids get an hour of exercise involving the entire body . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Kids today are less fit than their parents were at the same age, research shows . That could put them at risk for chronic diseases as adults . The CDC recommends kids get an hour of exercise involving the entire body .

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<s>[ARTICLE] A diplomatic car belonging to the Vatican has been stopped at a French checkpoint carrying four kilos of cocaine with an estimated street value of £500,000. Two Italian citizens were arrested in a grace and favour Jaguar allocated to Cardinal Jorge Melia. The 91-year-old Argentinian officially the Vatican's emeritus librarian is recovering from a heart attack. Scroll down for video . Two Italian citizens were arrested in a grace and favour Jaguar allocated to Cardinal Jorge Melia containing four kilos of cocaine. Pictured, St Peter's Square in the Vatican . A Vatican spokesman confirmed the news but said that the Cardinal was not involved, news agency Imedia said. The Cardinal's secretary gave the car to the two men so that they could service it, it is claimed. They allegedly took advantage of car's Vatican registration plates, driving to Spain, imagining that they would be able to pass all check points with diplomatic immunity. But the pair were stopped at a toll station near Chambery in the French Alps, where police found the cocaine hidden in suitcases, along with 150g of cannabis. They were arrested and will appear in front of a French magistrate on charges of drug trafficking. Pope Francis has spoken out against the 'scourge' of drugs saying: 'Drug use is an evil and against evil there can be no yield or compromise.' Holy smoke: Police found the cocaine hidden in suitcases, along with 150g of cannabis. File picture . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Two Italian men arrested in grace and favour Jaguar used by cardinal . The two men were reportedly given the car to be serviced . They believed the diplomatic markings would stop border searches . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Two Italian men arrested in grace and favour Jaguar used by cardinal . The two men were reportedly given the car to be serviced . They believed the diplomatic markings would stop border searches .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Charlie Scott . Follow @@charliefscott . Tour de France 2013 winner Chris Froome has become the first person to cycle from the United Kingdon to France - under the sea. As this year's Tour riders depart the UK after three days of action, footage has been released of the Team Sky leader cycling from the Eurotunnel Terminal in Folkestone on England's south-east coast to Calais in France. Froome rode through the 32-mile tunnel at a . training-pace, completing the world-first ride in a time of . approximately 55 minutes and reached speeds of up to 65 kilometres per . hour. Scroll down for video . Focused: Froome looks straight ahead before his ride under the Channel between the UK and France . Underway: The 2013 Tour de France winner starts his ride, with a number of Team Sky cars in support behind him . Ready to fly: Froome waits in front of a steel door before racing from the UK to France under the Channel . Beginning: Froome started at the Eurotunnel Terminal at Folkestone and finished at the French port of Calais . Speed demon: Froome hit speeds of 65kmph during the ride, which took him approximately 55 minutes to complete . Froome said afterwards: 'Cycling under the sea was an incredible experience. 'Opportunities to become the first person in the world to achieve these kind of feats are extremely rare nowadays, especially as a pro-cyclist. 'To become the first person ever to cycle through the Eurotunnel was right up there with some of the most iconic rides I’ve ever done - this must have been one of very few ‘world first’ rides left.' The service tunnel which Froome cycled through is one of the highest security sites in the UK and France. Jaguar and Team Sky began discussions over six months ago with . Eurotunnel, who are celebrating its twentieth year in 2014, to make the . cycling challenge possible. This ground-breaking achievement follows the recent launch of the Pinarello Dogma F8 at Jaguar Land Rover’s base in Gaydon. Out in front: Froome is Team Sky's leader for the 2014 Tour de France, which departs the UK after the third stage finished at Pall Mall on Monday . Pushing himself: Froome completed the ride at training-pace ahead of his defence of his 2013 Tour de France title . Finish line: Froome's Team Sky colleagues salute him as he finishes the route and emerges from the tunnel in Calais . Number one: Froome, who became the first person to cycle through the Eurotunnel, is currently defending his Tour de France title . John Keefe, head of public affairs at . Eurotunnel, added: 'The Eurotunnel is an incredible, unique piece of . engineering on par with the Golden Gate Bridge or Sydney Opera House. 'The . problem of course, is that no one gets to see it, so we were delighted . when Jaguar Land Rover came to us with this ground-breaking request'. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Team Sky leader is the first person to cycle through the Channel Tunnel between the United Kingdom and France . Jaguar released footage of the ride as this year's Tour de France riders completed the three UK stages . Froome rode through the tunnel at training-pace, completing the 32-mile journey in 55 minutes and reaching 65kmph . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Team Sky leader is the first person to cycle through the Channel Tunnel between the United Kingdom and France . Jaguar released footage of the ride as this year's Tour de France riders completed the three UK stages . Froome rode through the tunnel at training-pace, completing the 32-mile journey in 55 minutes and reaching 65kmph .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- Lionel Messi's sixth hat-trick of 2010 helped Barcelona demolish Almeria 8-0 on Saturday night, but three goals from Cristiano Ronaldo kept Real Madrid on top in Spain ahead of next Monday's "Clasico" clash between the La Liga giants. Messi reached the milestone of 100 league goals for Barcelona in just 154 appearances for the defending champions, and has already scored 22 this season in all competitions. His third goal briefly lifted him above Ronaldo as the league's top scorer on 13, putting the visitors seven up before the Argentine laid on substitute Bojan Krkic's second goal with 17 minutes to play. Barcelona led 5-0 at the halftime break, with Messi breaking the deadlock in the 17th minute after combining well with David Villa. Andres Iniesta made it 2-0 a minute later after woeful defending by Almeria, with his misplaced cross fortuitously rebounding back into his path, then Peru defender Wilmer Acasiete turned Maxwell's low cross into his own net on 27. Pedro embarrassed the onrushing Diego Alves eight minutes later as he easily won the race to a long ball in the 35th minute, then soon after Messi netted from the winger's low cross at the second attempt after the goalkeeper parried his first. Messi helped set up Bojan's first in the 62nd minute, with the 20-year-old showing nimble feet before dinking the ball over Alves. The beleaguered Alves could only parry Villa's shot into Messi's pass for the seventh, and Bojan made no mistake when sent free down the middle to seal the biggest win of the Spanish season so far and leave Almeria in the bottom three. The home side had conceded only 10 goals in 11 games -- the third best defensive record in the league behind Real and Barcelona -- but coach Juan Manuel Lillo was sacked after the match. Barcelona travel to Greece on Wednesday to face Panathinaikos in the Champions League, then host Real in a Monday fixture forced due to security concerns over the Catalan elections that weekend. Real Madrid will take a one-point lead into that match following the 5-1 victory at home to Athletic Bilbao in the late match, as coach Jose Mourinho completed his two-match touchline ban. With the Portuguese boss watching from various positions in the stands, Real almost went behind in just the second minute when defender Pepe had to clear off the line from Fernando Llorente. But Gonzalo Higuain put Real ahead in the 19th minute with a clinical low finish after fellow Argentine Angel Di Maria slipped a low pass into the penalty area, and Ronaldo doubled the lead on the half-hour after Mesut Ozil cleverly knocked the ball into his path. Spain striker Llorente reduced the deficit five minutes before halftime from close range with his ninth league goal of the season, but Real restored their two-goal buffer 11 minutes after the break. Di Maria duped Markel Susaeta into bringing him down just inside the box, and defender Sergio Ramos surprisingly stepped up to smash home the resulting penalty for his first goal of the campaign. Ronaldo effectively sealed the win in the 62nd minute with a swerving free-kick that wrongfooted goalkeeper Gorka Iraizoz could only palm into his net. The Portugal forward then netted his 15th league goal this season -- and 17th overall -- from the penalty spot in time added on after substitute Esteban Granero was brought down, despite having to retake the kick after illegally stopping in his initial run-up. Bilbao, who hit the bar through Javi Martinez in the 87th minute, were left in ninth place -- 16 points behind Real. Villarreal retained third place after coming from behind to earn a 1-1 draw at home to 10-man Valencia, who stayed fourth. Aritz Aduriz put Valencia ahead in the 20th minute with a deflected shot as Villarreal -- who had won all five previous home matches this season -- conceded at El Madrigal for just the second time. Italy forward Giuseppe Rossi gave his side a lifeline in the 73rd minute with a volley for his eighth La Liga goal of the campaign as his team now trail Real by eight points. Valencia lost Lithuania defender Marius Stankevicius to a second yellow card with 10 minutes to go, but held on for the draw ahead of Wednesday's Champions League clash with Turkish side Bursaspor. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Real Madrid stay one point clear in Spain after beating Athletic Bilbao 5-1 . Cristiano Ronaldo returns to top of scoring charts on 15 with a hat-trick . He had earlier been deposed by Lionel Messi, who scored a treble for Barcelona . Defending champions thrashed Almeria 8-0, which cost home team's coach his job . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Real Madrid stay one point clear in Spain after beating Athletic Bilbao 5-1 . Cristiano Ronaldo returns to top of scoring charts on 15 with a hat-trick . He had earlier been deposed by Lionel Messi, who scored a treble for Barcelona . Defending champions thrashed Almeria 8-0, which cost home team's coach his job .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Leesa Smith . Pop-up testing centres have made major progress toward reaching the target of eliminating HIV in NSW by 2020. The results come through in 30 minutes at the centres where you can walk-in or book while other clinics have doubled of the amount of testing in the past 18 months. The data shows a pop-up clinic at Mardi Gras this year tested a higher proportion of men with high-risk sexual behaviours and found HIV in two per cent - double the average rate. NSW is on the right track towards eradicating HIV with pop-up centres such as this clinic on Oxford St in Darlinghurst in March . Professor Andrew Grulich, from the University of NSW’s Kirby Institute for Infection and Immunity in Society, praised these results as impressive. More... Bill requiring porn stars to wear condoms and get regularly tested for AIDS passes California's assembly . ‘There are are big clinics in inner Sydney which have doubled their testing rates with some who were testing more than 1,000 a quarter, which has jumped up to 2,000,’ he said. ‘I think it's a tribute to how these centres have re-organised themselves internally to be able to do big volume testing, which is making a difference.' The highest proportion of gay men in nearly 20 years are now getting tested for HIV, with many attending the pop-up centre on Oxford St during Mardi Gras . The figures show the proportion of people diagnosed with low CD4 cell counts is decreasing, meaning fewer people have the virus for long periods of time before it is detected. NSW chief medical officer Dr Kerry Chant said she was confident the 2020 target would be met, but more needed to be done. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] HIV tests can be received within 30 minutes at pop-up clinics across NSW . Some inner-Sydney clinics have doubled HIV testing rates . NSW is moving towards reaching its target of eliminating HIV by 2020 . Expert praises the state for fundamental change in testing . [/SUMMARY]</s>

HIV tests can be received within 30 minutes at pop-up clinics across NSW . Some inner-Sydney clinics have doubled HIV testing rates . NSW is moving towards reaching its target of eliminating HIV by 2020 . Expert praises the state for fundamental change in testing .

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<s>[ARTICLE] When it comes to boxing stereotypes, Chris Algieri has shattered more than his fair share. Born in the middle class town of Huntington on the north shore of Long Island, the 30-year-old still lives in the basement of the house his parents built in 1974. His bookshelf is lined with tomes from Sun Tzu's The Art of War to Sugar Ray Leonard's autobiography to books on diet and nutrition. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Chris Algieri stripping to make the weight . Chris Algieri (right) poses at the press conference before going  toe-to-toe with Manny Pacquiao on Sunday . Pacquiao (right) trains in Macau with his coach Freddie Roach ahead of the fight . American Algieri lives in the basement of the house his parents built in 1974 and will receive $1.5million . He has a degree in health care sciences and a master's in clinical nutrition and has designs on going to medical school. Algieri has no amateur career having made the transition from kickboxing six years ago and was virtually an unknown until he became a world champion in June. But on Saturday he will earn around $1.5million when he takes on Manny Pacquiao in the gambling mecca of Macau. Indeed, this will be the first fight that Algieri hasn't been working while training. On the Tuesday before his shock victory over Ruslan Provodnikov last summer, he was putting a personal training client through his paces. 'I worked with a lot of athletes helping them, especially combat athletes. Then also mums, middle aged mothers that want to get back in shape after pregnancy or just being home and not training. I had a very varied client list.' It was Algieri's grandfather who first piqued Algieri's interest in boxing with tales of Argentinean legend Carlos Monzon. But despite being enthralled by the likes of Arturo Gatti, it was to martial arts and eventually kickboxing that a teenage Algieri turned. A professional by 19, he won two world titles but after suffering a broken elbow and a badly-injured knee, decided the risk/reward ratio was skewed against him. Six months later, he had switched to boxing. Pacquiao poses for the cameras during a workout session in Macau, showing off his trim physique . The Pacman (right) works with trainer Roach ahead of his fight with Algieri in the gambling mecca of Macau . 'A lot of the [kickboxing] techniques are very similar to punch techniques,' says Algieri. 'The fact that I've been fighting without a headgear for such a long time I think has really helped with my defence in my pro boxing career. 'But, in terms of how this sport is fought; it's a totally different pace. Boxing is a lot faster, conditioning is a lot more intensive and fights are longer.' After 20 fights, all in New York, over a six-year period, he was pitted against light-welterweight champion Provodnikov, a hard-hitting Russian nicknamed the Siberian Rocky. Algieri was knocked down twice in the first round but, despite his right eye closing during the fight, recovered to win a split-decision victory. 'It's zero to one hundred and that is just the nature of the game,' he says. 'It's nothing then boom! It's the nature of the business and I'm not surprised by it. 'I've been watching this sports for years and I have seen it with other fighters. I knew my time would come I just had to stay focused and disciplined and if you work hard good things happen. I am right where I am supposed to be.' On Saturday, that will be sharing a ring with Pacquiao, the eight-division world champion who still craves a shot at Floyd Mayweather Jnr. But Algieri is confident he can punch a considerable dent in those ambitions. 'I've got length, I've got reach, I've got speed; I've got footwork and defence, but that's not what's going to be the difference in this fight,' he adds. 'It's not a tall guy versus a short guy - It's Chris Algieri versus Manny Pacquiao. It's what I bring to the table versus what he brings to the table. I think a lot of it has to do with my mental preparation and mind going into this fight as well as what we know from Manny. 'We know Manny is a living legend. He's one of the greatest fighters that has ever lived. For me, I have to go out there and be myself. I have the talent and the tools to win this fight - I just have to go out there and perform.' [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Chris Algieri goes toe-to-toe with Manny Pacquiao on Saturday in Macau . The American lives in the basement of the house his parents built in 1974 . He has a degree in health care sciences and a master's in clinical nutrition . The 30-year-old will earn $1.5million when he squares up to Pacquiao . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Chris Algieri goes toe-to-toe with Manny Pacquiao on Saturday in Macau . The American lives in the basement of the house his parents built in 1974 . He has a degree in health care sciences and a master's in clinical nutrition . The 30-year-old will earn $1.5million when he squares up to Pacquiao .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Stuart Lancaster has been urged to throw Danny Cipriani into the thick of the Six Nations action by picking him as England’s starting fly half. The England head coach will on Wednesday name his team to face Wales in Friday night’s hotly anticipated opening Six Nations clash with Cipriani expected to be named on the bench and Bath star George Ford starting in the pivotal fly-half position. But former team-mate Paul Sackey – a former England star who was part of Wasps 2007 European Cup winning team which included a teenage Cipriani – believes Lancaster should go one better and start the in-form No10. Danny Cipriani should be England's fly half during the Six Nations, according to former winger Paul Sackey . Sackey (left) believes there is nobody better than Cipriani in the England attack . Backs: Brown, Burrell, Cipriani, Ford, Joseph, May, Nowell, Twelvetrees, Watson, Wigglesworth, B.Youngs . Forwards: Attwood, Brookes, Cole, Croft, Easter, Hartley, Haskell, Kruis, Marler, Robshaw, Thomas, M.Vunipola, B.Vunipola, T.Youngs . ‘I’m a massive Cipriani fan,’ Sackey told Sportsmail. ‘Attacking-wise I don’t think there is anyone better than him in England. It would be good for him to get a chance to show what he can do and reignite his career again. ‘His pace and his passing accuracy were the two things that stood out about him as a youngster. His passing was unbelievable. If you’ve got a 10 who can pass the ball and is a threat himself it opens options up all over the field. ‘He looks back to his best with a good team around him and it’s paying dividends. Sale are doing so well now and that’s paying massive dividends. ‘The recent New Zealand create so many holes is because of the threat Dan Carter poses. There are threats all over field. Danny can do that for England. He is such a huge talent.’ Cipriani, 27, spent six years in the international wilderness after falling out with former boss Martin Johnson following a spectacular introduction in 2008. But his superb recent form for Sale has forced Lancaster to reconsider him, while Owen Farrell’s injury has opened the door further for a player Sackey recalls as one of the most exciting talents he ever played with. Cipriani spent six years in the wilderness but returned for England in the summer . The No 10 impressed this season with some fine form for club side Sale Sharks . Sackey goes over for a try for England during the Rugby World Cup match with Tonga in 2007 . ‘He was always amazing in training but that was a great Wasps team with some special players,’ he said. ‘The thing that made you think ‘wow, he is amazing’ was the fact he came into that team at such a young age and fitted in straight away. He’s a special talent who still has a lot to offer England.’ With Ford expected to start ahead of Cipriani, with Jonathan Joseph at outside centre and Luther Burrell or Billy Twelvetrees at inside centre, Sackey says England will go far if they get their midfield right. ‘The 10-12-13 combination needs to be sorted out quickly,’ he said. ‘I liked Ford in the autumn. I thought he brought something different in terms of his attacking style and he’s quite cultured player who can kick to the corners. He brings another element to Farrell. ‘Manu Tuilagi is being missed and England really need to identify who they want to play in that midfield and stick with it. If it’s Burrell and Jamie Joseph then that’s a combination that can really work. ‘The pack of forwards is as good as anyone’s and if England can get their midfield sorted then I think they’ll be really dangerous.’ Sackey says he likes George Ford in the autumn and he brings another element to Owen Farrell . Paul Sackey is taking part in the new urban obstacle race Adrenaline Rush for Macmillan Cancer Support on 30th May 2015. For more info www.theadrenalinerush.com . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Stuart Lancaster names his England side to face Wales on Wednesday . Danny Cipriani expected to be named on the bench in Six Nations clash . But former wing Paul Sackey insists fly half should start at No 10 . Sackey believes Cipriani is England's best attacking option . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Stuart Lancaster names his England side to face Wales on Wednesday . Danny Cipriani expected to be named on the bench in Six Nations clash . But former wing Paul Sackey insists fly half should start at No 10 . Sackey believes Cipriani is England's best attacking option .

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<s>[ARTICLE] A senior politician has told how Rolf Harris groped her when she was a young radio reporter preparing to interview the now disgraced entertainer during the 1980s. New Zealand MP Maggie Barry said she was in her mid-20s and working at a regional radio station when she had to interview the star, who was touring the country at the time. Ms Barry spoke out about her encounter with Harris as he faced a jail sentence today, after he was convicted on Monday of a string of sex assaults on girls between 1968 and 1986. Scroll down for video . Speaking out: New Zealand MP Maggie Barry (right) has told how Rolf Harris (left) groped her when she was a young radio reporter preparing to interview the now disgraced entertainer . He said she had expected a light-hearted encounter with Harris, only to have to angrily rebuke him when the artist, now 84, put his hand on her leg. 'In the pre-record situation, when you're testing the . microphones and all the rest of it, he suddenly started with the . wandering hands and groping,' she told Radio New Zealand. 'When he put his hand on my leg I said "you can stop that right now" and I stood up and said "you're a sleazy creep". 'At that point he got a bit nasty and the publicist came in and smoothed things over.' Ms Barry, now aged in her 50s, said that after she called out Harris over his behaviour he 'began to . cut up rough (became angry) and protest and called me a couple of names' before the publicist intervened and he apologised. Interview: Ms Barry said she was in her mid-20s and working at a regional radio station in the 1980s when she had to interview the star, who was touring the country at the time . Barry said she . never reported the incident because it was 'on the absolute minor end of . the scale' of the abuses committed by Harris, and she had largely . forgotten about it until his trial began. However, she said the incident showed how . Harris thought he could act with impunity because of his fame, and that the . situation could have been far more serious if he had molested someone . who was younger or more vulnerable and not willing to stand up to him. 'It seemed that he was pretty confident and arrogant if he thought he could try it on with someone like me,' she said. 'When you look back with hindsight, seems that even 30 years ago he had been getting away with a lot.' Mugshot: The shamed star was found guilty of 12 counts at London's Southwark Crown Court on Monday . Harris is due to be sentenced later today, and faces the possibility of spending the rest of his life in jail. The shamed star was found guilty of 12 counts at London's Southwark Crown Court on Monday in unanimous verdicts by a jury of six men and six women. Harris from Bray in Berkshire, was convicted of nine assaults between 1968 and 1985 - one on a girl aged seven or eight, and the rest on teenagers between 14 and 19. The law at the time put the punishment at a maximum of two years, or five years for victims under 13. The remaining three guilty verdicts were for three counts of indecent assault on Tonya Lee, who has waived her right to anonymity, in 1986 when she was 15, when the maximum penalty had changed to 10 years. Mr Justice Sweeney will have to pass a sentence taking into account all the offending, and may consider Harris's old age. On Monday he warned the musician's legal team that he is likely to face prison. 'In reality, given the conviction on all 12 counts, it is inevitable that the type of sentence that is uppermost in the court's mind is a custodial sentence and he must understand that,' Mr Justice Sweeney had said. The once-loved entertainer was finally exposed as a serial sex offender at the end of his trial on Monday, his hypocrisy brought into sharp relief by the fact he had funded and starred in an educational film warning children of the dangers of paedophiles. Police are now looking into dozens more claims from alleged victims in the UK, Australia and New Zealand. The charges Harris was convicted of concern one woman who was groped when she was just seven or eight and asked for his autograph, another two who fell prey as teenagers, and a catalogue of abuse against his daughter Bindi's then best friend. Facing jail: Rolf Harris, seen leaving Southwark Crown Court on Monday, could spend the rest of his life in jail . During the trial, the court also heard from six other women who claim they were groped by Harris while abroad, including one who told the jury the artist forced his tongue in her mouth when she was 11 or 12. She was off sick from school at a family friend's house in Australia in 1969, when Harris told her: 'I want to be the first person to introduce you to a tongue kiss', before he pounced. Prosecutors also tried to use evidence from another seven women with similar accounts, including a celebrity who said she was groped on live TV, but this was deemed inadmissible. Since his conviction, Harris, who has been stripped of his Bafta fellowship and faces losing his CBE, has also lost an honorary degree from the University of East London. Questions have been raised over the future of his artwork, which includes a portrait of the Queen, and authorities in his native Western Australia are planning to remove tributes. His multimillion-pound fortune could also be badly dented by legal costs and compensation claims. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Maggie Berry said Harris touched her leg as she prepared to interview him . MP was working for a radio station when star toured New Zealand in 1980s . Ms Berry said she had told Harris to stop and called him a 'sleazy creep' She never reported the incident, which she describes as 'minor' But she said it showed how he acted with impunity due to his fame . Harris due to be sentenced today, and has been warned to expect jail . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Maggie Berry said Harris touched her leg as she prepared to interview him . MP was working for a radio station when star toured New Zealand in 1980s . Ms Berry said she had told Harris to stop and called him a 'sleazy creep' She never reported the incident, which she describes as 'minor' But she said it showed how he acted with impunity due to his fame . Harris due to be sentenced today, and has been warned to expect jail .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Arsene Wenger may have officially become an OAP at 65 but there are still one or two scores he has to settle before he actually contemplates retirement. He goes into tonight’s Champions League tie against Anderlecht at the Constant Vanden Stock Stadium with enough problems to add to his worry lines — not least exposing 22-year-old Emiliano Martinez to a Champions League debut when his most recent competitive match was in the Championship last season. But despite being old enough to qualify for a bus pass, Wenger still has a point to prove in Europe, famously never having won the Champions League despite contesting it 16 times with Arsenal and twice with Monaco. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Arsenal not reaching potential - Wenger . Arsene Wenger takes a look around Anderlecht's Constant Vanden Stock Stadium ahead of the game . Wenger is hopeful that Jack Wilshere will be fit to play against Anderlecht, on the manager's 65th birthday . David Ospina has been ruled out for three months after aggravating an old injury in his last outing for Arsenal . Arsene Wenger blamed the problem on the player being rushed back from injury while at his former club Nice . VIDEO Arsenal not reaching potential - Wenger . ‘Do I feel young?’ said Wenger. ‘No, my age is my age. You have to live with that. Until now I am lucky to be in shape. But the desire and motivation is stronger than ever. 'I am so keen to do well with my team this season. I want the club and the team to do as well as they can, it’s my dream. I want to give absolutely everything for my team to do it. ‘I am not a celebrator of birthdays. What is important is my team performs well and I will dedicate all my energy to get things right. 'There is a difference between the quality of our performances and points we have won. So we want to add to the quality of our performance, and get the points that we feel are there in the team. That little percentage, where we can improve, is vital.’ Wenger’s keeper crisis will be the key preoccupation tonight, with Martinez, replacing suspended Wojciech Szczesny, having conceded five goals in a Capital One Cup tie at Reading two years ago. Emiliano Martinez is now the only fit cover for Wojciech Szczesny in Wenger's injury-hit squad . Wenger remained upbeat about his squad despite the huge number of injuries effecting Arsenal . David Ospina joins the Arsenal injury list which also includes... Mesut Ozil, Olivier Giroud, Mathieu Debuchy,  Yaya Sanogo, Mikel Arteta and Laurent Koscielny, while Aaron Ramsey, Theo Walcott, Serge Gnabry and Jack Wilshere are all still struggling for fitness. And Martinez will have a job to do after tonight as the club’s temporary No 2 keeper, with Wenger revealing Colombian David Ospina will be out until the New Year in yet another Arsenal injury setback. Wenger said: ‘Ospina had his first injury at Nice (his former club), which was a knee problem, and I think he was a bit rushed back. He then got injured during the World Cup. And after that he came to us injured. ‘I had to bring him on against Galatasaray without a warm-up, without being prepared, and he had a recurrence of that injury. That means he is out for two to three months. Now we have to be really careful because he has a recurrence of a thigh injury that’s very difficult. It’s a long-term injury.’ At least Wenger can welcome back Aaron Ramsey against Anderlecht after he came through his substitute appearance against Hull on Saturday. The midfielder could start here in Brussels tonight along with Mikel Arteta, who also returned to the bench on Saturday. Martinez (left) is set to start for Arsenal in their game with Anderlecht as Josh Vickers also trained . Young keeper Matt Macey (left) also trained alongside Ryan Huddart (right) as Arsenal's crisis deepens . Arsenal were given a boost ahead of Wednesday's match as midfielder Aaron Ramsey was able to train . Arsene Wenger has had to call up young keepers Ryan Huddart, Josh Vickers, Matt Macey. Read more about Wenger's young keepers here. Jack Wilshere has backed Martinez to provide Arsenal with the stability they need against the Belgian champions. ‘He has grown up in the last two years, playing at Sheffield Wednesday on loan in the Championship, which is a very tough league to play in, especially in England as a foreign lad,’ said Wilshere. ‘We’re confident in him, we train with him every day, see what he can do and he’ll be ready.’ The England midfielder maintains that despite only having won four games all season, Arsenal will eventually dispel the notion they are a lightweight team. Arsenal's English stars were all smiles on the train to Belgium ahead of their Champions League tie . Theo Walcott also took part in training as he steps up his return from nine months out after a knee injury . ‘I think that’s unfair. Maybe we haven’t got the results we wanted in some games, or drawn when should have won, but if we look back we’ve had a positive start. 'Ok, we need more points than we have in the table, but going forward we are confident we can get the points we need. ‘We just ignore that criticism. We know what we can do in midfield. Maybe our strongest point is going forward, we know we can defend, we have players who can put their foot in and we have players who can organise in Flamini. 'We have good defensive players. We know on Saturday the performance wasn’t good enough.’ [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Arsene Wenger turns 65 on Wednesday, when Arsenal take on Anderlecht . Wenger says his 'desire and motivation is stronger than ever' David Ospina out until late January with thigh injury . Arsene Wenger claims Ospina picked up the injury while at Nice . Emiliano Martinez is set to start his first Champions League game . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Arsene Wenger turns 65 on Wednesday, when Arsenal take on Anderlecht . Wenger says his 'desire and motivation is stronger than ever' David Ospina out until late January with thigh injury . Arsene Wenger claims Ospina picked up the injury while at Nice . Emiliano Martinez is set to start his first Champions League game .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Fiona Macrae . Updated: . 05:42 EST, 18 August 2011 . Scientists plan to smash a spacecraft into an asteroid so that they are prepared for having to stop one hurtling towards Earth. The news came as Nasa moved to calm fears that a comet is on a collision course with our planet. The plans for a test mission to stop an asteroid from colliding with Earth come from Nasa’s cousin, the European Space Agency. Rescue plan: The European Space Agency is planning mission Don Quijote - to blow up a huge asteroid that could potentially be hurtling towards Earth . In the Hollywood movie Armageddon, Bruce Willis attempts to blow up a huge asteroid hurtling towards Earth. In real life, the mission, called Don Quixote, will see two spacecraft launched. One will be fired at an asteroid  at . break-neck speed in an attempt to push it off its course. The other will . analyse data with the aim  of informing future missions in which the . future of mankind may be at stake. One potential target for the test . mission is a 1,600ft-wide asteroid called 99942 Apophis, which has a . tiny chance – around one in 250,000 – of hitting Earth in 2036. Nasa scientists yesterday took the . unusual step of officially dismissing claims sweeping the internet that . comet Elenin, discovered by an astronomer last December, is on a deadly . course. Brucey bonus: Armageddon starred Bruce Willis as the leader of a team of astronauts who destroy an asteroid that threatens to wipe out Earth . Scare stories include the comet . plunging the Earth into darkness for three days by blocking out the sun, . colliding with Earth, moving tides or continents and throwing the . planet off orbit. It is even claimed that a fleet of . UFOs are streaking towards us in the comet’s wake, and that Nasa has . conspired with media organisations to create a news blackout on the . comet to avoid mass panic sweeping the world. But the space agency said  Elenin will . never come closer to Earth than 22million miles and will not compromise . our planet in  any way. An official said: ‘The truth is that . Elenin has received much more attention than it deserves due to  a . variety of internet postings  that are untrue.’ [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Plan is similar to the plot of Hollywood film Armageddon . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Plan is similar to the plot of Hollywood film Armageddon .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Associated Press . Colorado marijuana advocates are fighting back against the Cheech & Chong stereotypes and ominous anti-drug campaigns with a series of advertisements encouraging users to 'consumer responsibly.' To get their message across, they are skewering some of the old Drug War-era ads that focused on the fears of marijuana, including the famous 'This is your brain on drugs' fried-egg ad from the 1980s. They are planning posters, brochures, billboards and magazine ads to caution consumers to use the drug responsibly and warn tourists and first-timers about the potential to get sick from accidentally eating too much medical-grade pot. 'So far, every campaign designed to educate the public about marijuana has relied on fear-mongering and insulting marijuana users,' said Mason Tvert, spokesman for the Marijuana Policy Project, the nation's biggest pot-policy advocacy group. Fighting stereotypes: This new pro-pot billboard by the Marijuana Policy Project will appear near legal pot dispensaries in Denver encouraging users to 'start low and go slow' If you use marijuana: The MPP mocks anti-drug campaigns and promotes marijuana education that 'makes sense' The MPP plans to unveil a billboard on Wednesday on a west Denver street where many pot shops are located that shows a woman slumped in a hotel room with the tagline: 'Don't let a candy bar ruin your vacation.' It's an allusion to Maureen Dowd, a New York Times columnist who got sick from eating one on a visit to write about pot. The campaign is a direct response to the state's post-legalization marijuana-education efforts. One of them is intended to prevent stoned driving and shows men zoning out while trying to play basketball, light a grill or hang a television. Many in the industry said the ads showed stereotypical stoners instead of average adults. Even more concerning to activists is a youth-education campaign that relies on a human-sized cage and the message, 'Don't Be a Lab Rat,' along with warnings about pot and developing brains. The cage in Denver has been repeatedly vandalized. At least one school district rejected the traveling exhibit, saying it was well-intentioned but inappropriate. 'To me, that's not really any different than Nancy Reagan saying 'Just Say No,'' said Tim Cullen, co-owner of four marijuana dispensaries and a critic of the 'lab rat' campaign, referring to the former first lady's effort to combat drug use. A spokesman for the state Health Department welcomed the industry's ads, and defended the 'lab rat' campaign. 'It's been effective in starting a conversation about potential risks to youth from marijuana,' Mark Salley said. Up in Smoke: Activists aim to terminate stoner stereotypes made popular by the Cheech & Chong franchise . Snack responsibly: The campaign often alludes to Maureen Dowd, the New York Times columnist who got sick after eating too much pot . The dueling campaigns come at a time when the industry is concerned about inexperienced consumers using edible pot. The popularity of edibles surprised some in the industry when legal-marijuana retail sales began in January. Edible pot products have been blamed for at least one death, of a college student who jumped to his death in Denver in March after consuming six times the recommended dose of edible marijuana. The headlines, including Dowd's experience, have been enough for the industry to promote moderation with edible pot. 'I think the word has gotten out that you need to be careful with edibles,' said Steve Fox, head of the Denver-based Council for Responsible Cannabis Regulation. The group organized the 'First Time 5' campaign, which cautions that new users shouldn't eat more than 5 milligrams of marijuana's psychoactive ingredient, or half a suggested serving. The campaign warns users that edible pot can be much more potent than the marijuana they're smoking — and that the pot-infused treats on store shelves are much stronger than homemade brownies they may recall eating. The advocacy ads tackle anti-drug messaging from year past. Inside pictures of old TV sets are images from historic ads. Along with the fried-egg one is an image from one ad of a father finding his son's drug stash and demanding to know who taught him to use it. The kid answers: 'You, all right! I learned it by watching you!' The print ad concludes, 'Decades of fear-mongering and condescending anti-marijuana ads have not taught us anything about the substance or made anyone safer.' It then directs viewers to consumeresponsibly.org, which is patterned after the alcohol industry's 'Drink Responsibly' campaign. Marijuana activists plan to spend $75,000 by year's end and eventually expand it to Washington state, where pot is also legal. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Activists say anti-pot campaigns have relied on 'fear mongering' and insulting users . The campaign is a direct response to Colorado's current marijuana-education efforts following legalization . Advocates say: 'Decades of condescending anti-marijuana ads have not taught us anything about the substance or made anyone safer' [/SUMMARY]</s>

Activists say anti-pot campaigns have relied on 'fear mongering' and insulting users . The campaign is a direct response to Colorado's current marijuana-education efforts following legalization . Advocates say: 'Decades of condescending anti-marijuana ads have not taught us anything about the substance or made anyone safer'

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- It's probably been a few years since you packed your books and lunch in a bag, kissed your mom at the door and stumbled off to grade school. But if you've got a friend traveling to Japan, you might soon find yourself slinging an old-timey book bag over your shoulders. Randoseru, Japan's traditional schoolchild's backpack, has become the latest must-buy souvenir in Japan. The randoseru is a mandatory item for first-year elementary school kids in Japan. Made primarily of leather, the simple, boxy backpack is known for its sturdiness and is usually expected to last a student through his or her first six years of school. Its popularity among foreigners gained traction earlier this year when Zooey Deschanel was spotted in New York sporting a red randoseru. It's not the first time Deschanel's taste in backwear has spawned an unlikely trend. In 2012, she was seen wearing a Fjallraven rucksack -- a hipster schoolbag brand from Sweden -- and a fashion mini-wave was born. Randoseru sales up . In addition to becoming a topic of conversation on talk shows in Japan, the photo of Deschanel and her randoseru made the rounds on the internet. In April, Yorozu and Nagomi souvenir shops at Kansai International Airport in Osaka began stocking the bags in response to a sudden and unexpected demand from tourists. Yorozu tells CNN that the shop now sells about 120 randoseru each month. Chinese and Taiwanese parents and grandparents are among the biggest buyers, but travelers from other countries have been snatching them up, as well. Seiban, a randoseru manufacturer, has also seen an increase in foreign shoppers at its randoseru shop in Tokyo's Harajuku area. The company says it's considering hiring more foreign-language-speaking staff to accommodate the demand, according to the Japan Times. Randoseru typically cost between $120 and $600. How long the randoseru trend lasts is anybody's guess. Probably at least until Deschanel is spotted toting her stuff in an egg basket, toolbox or whatever's next. CNN's Yoko Wakatsuki contributed to this report. CNN's On the Road series often carries sponsorship originating from the countries we profile. However CNN retains full editorial control over all of its reports. Read the policy. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Randoseru, Japan's traditional schoolchild's backpack, has become the latest must-buy souvenir in Japan . Zooey Deschanel was spotted in New York sporting a red randoseru, making the rounds on the internet . One souvenir shop at Kansai International Airport in Osaka sells about 120 randoseru each month . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Randoseru, Japan's traditional schoolchild's backpack, has become the latest must-buy souvenir in Japan . Zooey Deschanel was spotted in New York sporting a red randoseru, making the rounds on the internet . One souvenir shop at Kansai International Airport in Osaka sells about 120 randoseru each month .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Louise Boyle . and James Nye . and Lydia Warren . A tiny shack on the Manhattan Bridge where a 57-year-old homeless man has lived for a year has today been ripped down by New York police. A dozen officers wearing helmets and brandishing hammers raided the home on Thursday morning and broke up the man's coffin-sized shack, which he had built from flimsy wood. Officers tore up the wood and pulled down his belongings, including pots, bedsheets, clothing and even electrical items, before dumping them in an overflowing truck. The man, who previously told MailOnline his name . was Joey, was taken to the Bellevue Men's Shelter in Midtown Manhattan, an NYPD spokesman said today. Scroll down for video . Ripped down: Law enforcement officers are pictured ripping down a homeless man's shack on the Manhattan Bridge on Thursday morning after his dwelling was revealed last month . Removed: The team pulled down the man's belongings from the shack where he has been living for a year . Evicted: The man living inside the bridge is pictured after police arrived on the scene on Thursday . The NYPD said that 'Joey', whose full name was not revealed, asked for the contents of his makeshift home to be thrown away. He also refused any medical attention. For . a year, the man had managed to quietly come and go from his home on the . cyclists' side of the New York City landmark, which connects Manhattan . and Brooklyn. But his hideaway was discovered last month after a . cyclist called 911 saying he thought the man was trying to commit suicide - . when he was actually climbing into the safe confines of his tiny home. The NYPD said that the home had to be demolished because it was dangerous for Joey and for those who use the cycle path of the bridge. MailOnline spoke to him at the home earlier this week and, speaking in heavily-accented English, he offered up his name as Joey and said that he arrived in New York City from China 13 years ago. Belongings: They pulled down his belongings and piled them high in trucks to be discarded . Carted away: His items, including bedding and wood, filled a truck near to the Manhattan Bridge . Stash: The team of police officers pulled down his belongings on Thursday, including electrical items . When asked where he had lived in China . before arriving in the United States, middle-aged Joey said that he had . worked in Shanghai, but had left to try and find a better life in the . United States. Claiming to have suffered a financial loss through gambling, Joey said that for the past year he had called the Manhattan Bridge his home - constructing the base between the girders using wood discarded from nearby Chinatown. Indeed, dotted around the shack built into the bridge was evidence of his shanty construction - wooden boards and used water bottles litter the area. Joey said that there were others who . lived in or near to the bridge - including one woman who had moved her . worldly possessions off the cycling ramp to the entrance of of the famous structure finished in 1912. Looking inside: An image shows the inside of the man's home as officers continue to pull it down . Discovery: Department of Transportation workers help pull down the insides of the man's home . Thrown away: They broke up the wood and pulled down bed sheets and pieces of carpet, pictured . Crowd: Members of the NYPD looked on as officers pulled down items on Thursday morning . Surprisingly . well dressed for a man who lives in a bridge, Joey said that the brutal . winter that New York and the nation just experienced was difficult to . endure. He also said that he was working on a second . shack just 15-feet up the ramp from his current abode. Each of the cramped homes were around ten feet-by-one-and-a-half feet and seemed to be protected with bike locks. The . tiny, narrow dwellings were just big enough for one person to lie down. The living spaces also provided little silence as loud subway trains . rumbled by on four different tracks, 24 hours a day. Emerging: The man who lived in the shack said his name was Joey. He is pictured by his home this week . Looking inside: Water bottles and wooden planks litter the area where 'Joey' built his home on the bridge . Daylight: Earlier this week, 'Joey' explained that he has been coming and going from the home for a year. But a passerby saw him climbing into the home and thought he was committing suicide, so called the cops . Heading home: 'Joey' headed back to his shack to replace his umbrella after it stopped raining . The spot was also poorly lit and well-trafficked with bikers who speed past, not expecting to see a pedestrian on this side of the bridge. Joey likely picked the spot because . it is part of a short expanse of the bike path where there is a roof. There is also no roof over the pedestrian walkway. Last . Sunday a cyclist saw Joey climbing to his rustic nook and mistook him . for a jumper, calling 911 to report what he thought was an impending . suicide. The NYPD . declined to comment to MailOnline regarding the dwellings, and the . Department of Transportation has yet to return a message left seeking . comment. Before: His home, only accessible by the cyclists' lane, was snapped in daylight before it was pulled down . Secret: His home, seen above the cyclists' lane, was accessed by climbing over the steel railings . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] On Thursday morning, police officers ripped down the shack that 'Joey' had built into the girders of New York City's Manhattan Bridge . The man, 57, who is originally from China, earlier this week said that he had built the home from items he found discarded in nearby Chinatown . The shack was first uncovered last month when a cyclist thought Joey was attempting suicide - but instead he was just entering his home . It is believed that Joey has been taken to a nearby community center . [/SUMMARY]</s>

On Thursday morning, police officers ripped down the shack that 'Joey' had built into the girders of New York City's Manhattan Bridge . The man, 57, who is originally from China, earlier this week said that he had built the home from items he found discarded in nearby Chinatown . The shack was first uncovered last month when a cyclist thought Joey was attempting suicide - but instead he was just entering his home . It is believed that Joey has been taken to a nearby community center .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Ireland have been served a fitness blow ahead of the autumn internationals and possibly the Six Nations after winger Andrew Trimble was ruled out with a toe injury. Irish province Ulster said that the 30-year-old had suffered 'significant ligament damage' to his big toe during a recent PRO12 clash with Glasgow and is expected to miss 'a period of months'. A statement from the province read: 'Andrew Trimble suffered significant ligament damage to his great toe playing in the PRO12 game against Glasgow Warriors. Andrew Trimble, in action against England at Twickenham last season, will miss the autumn internationals . 'Ulster Rugby, in conjunction with the national medical staff, will seek second opinion on the management of the injury, however it's is expected that he will be out of rugby for a period of months.' There was further bad news for Ireland after Trimble's club and country team-mate Luke Marshall was confirmed to have sustained medial ligament damage to his left knee during a clash against Yorkshire Carnegie. The six-cap centre is expected to miss six weeks with the problem. Luke Marshall, making a run against Australia in November 2013, is out for three weeks with a knee injury . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Ulster winger Andrew Trimble significant ligament damage' to his big toe during recent PRO12 clash . Trimble was key member of Joe Schmidt's triumphant Six Nations squad last season . Trimble's Ulster and Ireland team-mate Luke Marshall out for six weeks with knee injury . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Ulster winger Andrew Trimble significant ligament damage' to his big toe during recent PRO12 clash . Trimble was key member of Joe Schmidt's triumphant Six Nations squad last season . Trimble's Ulster and Ireland team-mate Luke Marshall out for six weeks with knee injury .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Dan Bloom . Boko Haram militants dressed as soldiers have slaughtered at least 200 civilians in Nigeria. Witnesses said the extremists rounded up the helpless villagers promising to protect them - the same tactic used to kidnap 300 schoolgirls in April - before opening fire until almost all were dead. Community leaders in the three northeastern villages claimed the military failed to intervene, even though it was warned an attack was imminent. Massacre: Militants dressed as soldiers rounded up residents of three villagers in northeastern Borno province (pictured in red) as shot at them 'continuously for a very long time' until all those gathered were dead . A community leader who witnessed the killings on Monday said residents of the Gwoza local government district, in Borno state, pleaded for the military to send soldiers to protect the area. He said they had heard the Islamist militants - who have taken over several villages in Nigeria - were about to attack, but help didn't arrive. After escaping the massacre and fleeing to Maiduguri, Borno's state capital, he said: 'We all thought they were the soldiers that we earlier reported to that the insurgents might attack us.' 'Then they begin to fire at the people continuously for a very long time until all that gathered were all dead' - Community leader who escaped the massacre . The militants arrived in Toyota Hilux pickup trucks - commonly used by the military - and told the civilians they were soldiers 'and we are here to protect you all'. The tactic was the same used by Boko Haram militants who kidnapped more than 300 girls from a school in the town of Chibok on April 15, prompting an international campaign whose supporters include the U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama. After people gathered in the village centres on the militants' orders, the witness said, 'they begin to shout `Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar' on top of their voices. 'Then they begin to fire at the people continuously for a very long time until all that gathered were all dead.' The witness asked not to be named for fear for his safety. The killings happened on Monday in the villages of Danjara, Agapalwa, and Antagara. They are in the Gwoza . local government area, a regional political centre whose emir was killed in a . Boko Haram ambush on his convoy last week. Horror: The militants told villagers they were there to protect them, the same tactics used to kidnap almost 300 schoolgirls (pictured) from another village in April. No photographs have yet emerged of the slaughter . Boko Haram's violence has forced more than 250,000 people to flee their homes since March last year, according to Nigeria's National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). But a report yesterday warned the latest horrific attacks in the north east could still be the tip of the iceberg. The Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC), based in Norway, said the unrest could spread rapidly to other countries. Its director Alfredo Zamudio said: 'As the government struggles to contain the group’s southward spread towards Abuja, questions to the future of regional stability have been raised which have weakened Nigeria’s relations with Cameroon, Niger and Chad. 'The group is growing in its ambition, capability and reach, creating fears that it will become a regional destabilising force.' Jan Egeland, Secretary General of the Norwegian Refugee Council, added: 'What we have learnt from past experiences of managing the humanitarian impact of armed groups, such as the LRA, is that speed is of the essence. 'The longer such groups are allowed to continue these horrific abuses, the more visibility and notoriety they gain, the harder it becomes to control their spread and impact - they must be stopped, and they must be stopped now'. Emirs are religious and traditional rulers who have been targeted for speaking out against Boko Haram's extremism. Borno governor Kashim Shettima traveled on Saturday to Gwoza to pay his respects . to the fallen emir and was quoted as saying it was a terrifying ride. 'If . I say I was not petrified travelling through that ... road to Gwoza I . would be lying because that road had been designated a no-go area for . about two months now due to the incessant attacks and killings that . occur there,' the governor was quoted as saying by Information Nigeria. A . local journalist who was in the convoy - escorted by 150 soldiers - . counted at least 16 towns and villages that were deserted along the 85 . mile route. The slaughter was confirmed by both Mohammed Ali Ndume, a senator representing Borno and whose hometown is Gwoza, and by a top security official in Maiduguri who insisted on anonymity because he isn't allowed to speak to the media. It took a few days for survivors to . get word of the massacres to Maiduguri, the provincial capital, because . travel on the roads is extremely dangerous and phone connections are . poor or nonexistent. The . community leader wasn't shot because 'I was going round to inform people . that the soldiers had come and they wanted to address us,' he said. As people were fleeing, other gunmen lurking outside the villages on motorcycles mowed them down, he said. Militants . of Boko Haram, which wants to establish Islamic state in Nigeria, have . been taking over villages in the northeast, killing and terrorizing . civilians and political leaders. The Islamic fighters are making a comeback from a year-long military offensive which had been aimed at crushing them. The extreme Islamist group, led by Abubakar Shekau (pictured), has swept through northeastern Nigeria . Monday's attacks have been among the deadliest so far. Thousands of people have been killed . in the five-year-old insurgency, more than 2,000 so far just this year, . and an estimated 750,000 Nigerians have been driven from their homes. Nigeria's military has insisted that the big influx of troops and a year-old state of emergency in three states which gives them the power to detain suspects, take over buildings and lock down any area has the extremists on the run. But while Boko Haram has mostly been pushed out of northeastern cities, militants have been seizing villages with thatched-roof huts in the semi-arid region where they once held sway. Their black flags adorned with white Arabic lettering have been hoisted above simple village buildings, making vast parts of Nigeria no-go areas for the military. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Militants in Toyota Hilux pickup trucks said they would protect villagers . Tactics are the same employed by those who kidnapped 300 schoolgirls . But they then 'shot at villagers in Borno state until all were wiped out' It took three days for word of the massacre to reach the state capital . Monday's attacks in north east of the country are among deadliest so far . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Militants in Toyota Hilux pickup trucks said they would protect villagers . Tactics are the same employed by those who kidnapped 300 schoolgirls . But they then 'shot at villagers in Borno state until all were wiped out' It took three days for word of the massacre to reach the state capital . Monday's attacks in north east of the country are among deadliest so far .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Washington (CNN) -- Upcoming forced government spending cuts will heavily impact the Federal Aviation Administration, triggering flight delays nationwide and control-tower closures at some small airports as soon as April, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said Friday. "Travelers should expect delays," LaHood told reporters in calling for fellow Republicans to work toward compromise to avert the worst impacts of $85 billion in across-the-board cuts set to take effect March 1. The full impact won't be felt until April as furloughs and other staffing reductions of air traffic controllers come into effect, said LaHood, who has announced his intention to step down from President Barack Obama's Cabinet. "Flights to major cities like New York, Chicago, San Francisco and others could experience delays of up to 90 minutes during peak hours because we have fewer controllers on staff," LaHood said. "Delays in these major airports will ripple across the country." In addition, control towers at smaller airports such as Boca Raton, Florida, and Joplin, Missouri, would be closed, he said. Asked why he was brought to the White House briefing room to address reporters, he said: "I would describe my presence here with one word -- Republican." "They're hoping that maybe I can influence members of my own party" to compromise with Obama and Democrats on an alternative to the mandatory spending cuts agreed to in a 2011 deal to increase the federal borrowing limit, LaHood said. LaHood is a former member of the House of Representatives from Illinois. In a letter to airline associations, the Defense Department and other "aviation colleagues" released on Friday, LaHood said plans under consideration to absorb the mandatory spending cuts included furloughs for most FAA workers, eliminating midnight shifts in 60 control towers and shutting down more than 100 towers at smaller airports. The FAA operates towers at more than 400 airports nationwide. The Homeland Security Department has separately warned of longer security lines at airports if budget cuts take effect, another potential headache for air travelers. CNN's Tom Cohen contributed to this report. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] NEW: Most FAA workers will face furloughs, LaHood says . Ray LaHood warns of major impact from forced spending cuts as soon as April . Transportation secretary calls on fellow Republicans to compromise . The spending cuts are scheduled to be implemented starting March 1 . [/SUMMARY]</s>

NEW: Most FAA workers will face furloughs, LaHood says . Ray LaHood warns of major impact from forced spending cuts as soon as April . Transportation secretary calls on fellow Republicans to compromise . The spending cuts are scheduled to be implemented starting March 1 .

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<s>[ARTICLE] A Halloween horror cruise 'turned into a real nightmare' after the ship ran aground and started severely tilting – forcing almost 1,000 costume-clad passengers to evacuate. The Bahamas Celebration cruise was heading back to Palm Beach, Florida, when passengers said they heard a loud 'bang' and felt the 600ft tall ship shake before the vessel lost power. More than 960 passengers were planning to attend the costume contest and zombie ball on Friday, but instead they were left waiting for hours to evacuate in the pitch black with no food or water. Scroll down for video . The Bahamas Celebration cruise was heading back to Palm Beach, Florida, when passengers said they heard a loud 'bang' and felt the 600ft tall ship shake before the vessel lost power . A clip from the promotional video for the Halloween horror cruise which cost passengers up to $400 each . 'It was like an actual Halloween horror cruise turned into real life,' said passenger Daniel Fana. Passengers initially thought it was a Halloween joke, but once they were told to put life jackets on and wait to be evacuated, many started to panic. 'At first you kind of thought, maybe this is a Halloween joke and this is supposed to be funny,' said Wally Yoost. 'As we were walking out of the room, the whole boat just went black. Then passengers started to panic.' Passengers initially thought it was a Halloween joke, but once they were told to put life jackets on and wait to be evacuated, many started to panic . More than 960 passengers were planning to attend the costume contest and zombie ball on Friday . Those aboard the ship were described as 'terrified' and many feared a repeat of the Costa Concordia disaster which killed 32 people. 'Everybody was screaming at each other,' passenger Joan Fischer said. 'It turned into a nightmare.' 'The panic was just too much for my comfort,' said passenger Amanda Jones. Fellow passenger LaShawn Farrar added, 'We could feel the boat tipping over.' Hours after the alarm first sounded passengers made it safely off the boat and they were transferred to temporary accommodation. The cruise ship ran aground 200 yards outside Freeport Harbour and salvage crews assessed the damage caused by 'a small hole in the side of the vessel'. James Verillo, owner of the Bahamas Celebration cruise line, said on Saturday afternoon that a small hole on the side of the vessel has been repaired and the ship is in no danger of sinking. Passengers initially thought it was a Halloween joke, but panic set in once they were told to put life jackets on, pictured is another shot from promotional video . The cruise line said that no passengers were ever in any danger, and everything was handled efficiently . 'The ship is listing at about 10 per cent and there is a whole host of professionals on board dealing with the issue. There was a small hole on the side of the ship that has already been patched,' he said. On Sunday morning, the luxury liner, which is almost the size of two football fields, was safely docked. Celebration Cruise Line said passengers were told to put on life vests and the ship returned to port after the boat hit something while leaving Grand Bahamas Island around 9pm on Friday, . 'No passengers were ever in any danger, and everything was handled in an organised and efficient way by ship, corporate and Bahamian personnel,' the cruise line said. Passengers paid up to $400 for the two-day horror cruise, which included assess to a number of Halloween-themed events, such as the 'Deck of Death'. On the company's website, it says: 'The Deck of Death is inhabited by former passengers and crew members, some dead, some alive and some we don't know what they are. 'Warning, this tour is not recommended for anyone with a heart condition.' Two Celebration cruises scheduled for Saturday and today were canceled while damage to the boat was assessed. 'Our focus at this time (is) taking care of our passengers who were on the ship or had planned to be on the ship over the next few days,' Celebration said. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Around 960 passengers evacuated from Bahamas Celebration horror cruise . They initially thought it was Halloween joke, but then vessel lost power . Cruise ship ran aground 200 yards from Florida port and started tilting . Passengers paid up to $400 for the two-day horror cruise and zombie ball . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Around 960 passengers evacuated from Bahamas Celebration horror cruise . They initially thought it was Halloween joke, but then vessel lost power . Cruise ship ran aground 200 yards from Florida port and started tilting . Passengers paid up to $400 for the two-day horror cruise and zombie ball .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Travelmail Reporter . UPDATED: . 09:39 EST, 28 November 2011 . Ailing holiday giant Thomas Cook has reassured its customers that their holidays are ‘in safe hands’ after it received an extra £100 million lifeline from its banks last week. But the firm may still have to close 200 of its 1,100 UK travel shops and axe 1,000 jobs in a bid to reduce its huge debt mountain. Facing the axe: Thomas Cook may have to close up to 200 of its UK travel agencies in a bid to slash costs . The group launched a publicity drive this week amid fears that negative headlines may have deterred holidaymakers from booking with the company.The debt-laden firm saw UK bookings plunge by 30 per cent last week amid uncertainty over the group’s future.Thomas Cook’s interim chief executive Sam Weihagen will publish a letter in national newspapers from tomorrow saying it is safe to book breaks with the group. Mr Weihagen's letter will begin: ‘What a week it has been for Thomas Cook,’ adding that it is now ‘an even stronger and more confident company’ and members of the public 'can be sure that your holiday really is in safe hands’.His words will play on the 170-year-old company's history and will claim it is the ‘most recognised and established name in the industry’.The letter will add: ‘I have no doubt that we will still be in another 170 years and beyond.’ Dip in profits: The debt-laden firm saw UK bookings plunge by 30% last week . The company’s share price slumped by a massive 75 per cent in one day last week amid fears of an imminent collapse.But the shares rose 30 per cent today after the company announced an extra £100 million lifeline from its banks on Friday night.The £200 million funding headroom was approved by the company's syndicate of banks, which include Barclays, HSBC, RBS and UniCredit, and will last until April 30 2013.It will replace the £100 million short-term facility announced on October 21 2011. James Hollins, an analyst at Evolution Securities, said the new lending facility had secured the company's short-term survival.He added: ‘The increased facility pushes current gross debt to £1.5 billion but fortunately all the bad press has come at a low point in the booking cycle and the group has the funds and time to restore partner and consumer confidence in its brand and survival.’Mr Weihagen suggested that the multi-million pound loan might have been repaid in full by this time next year.He admitted, however, that it ‘may take two to three years to come to an acceptable profitability’.However, he refused to be drawn on possible shop closures and speculation about thousands of job losses within the UK.He said only that the firm was evaluating its shop estate and making sure ‘the shops we do have operating are profitable’. Sign of the times: Thomas Cook, which sells more than 22 million holidays a year in the UK, has suffered from the impact of the Arab spring . In the meantime, he added, new management had been put in place in the UK, where trade has been suffering.‘The UK business this year has not really performed as good as we had hoped and not as good as competitors have performed and that was a management issue so we have replaced the management in the UK and started a turnaround plan,' he said.‘I'm very confident that plan will make sure our UK business will return to a much better profitability over time.’The travel agency, which was founded in 1841 and sells more than 22 million holidays a year in the UK, was hit by a slowdown in trade due to weak consumer confidence and unrest in North Africa.The group has suffered from the impact of the Arab spring, which has hit bookings to Tunisia and Egypt, destinations popular with France and Russia respectively, as well as UK holidaymakers. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] 200 UK travel shops and 1,000 jobs could be axed . UK bookings plunged by 30 per cent last week . Firm has received an extra £100 million lifeline . Chief executive to publish open letter in newspapers . [/SUMMARY]</s>

200 UK travel shops and 1,000 jobs could be axed . UK bookings plunged by 30 per cent last week . Firm has received an extra £100 million lifeline . Chief executive to publish open letter in newspapers .

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<s>[ARTICLE] NEW YORK (CNN) -- The pilot who landed a crippled US Airways jetliner on the Hudson River thought there would have been "catastrophic consequences" if he tried to make it to a nearby airport, a National Transportation Safety Board official said Saturday night. US Airways Flight 1549 remained in the icy Hudson River on Saturday. Instead, pilot Pilot C.B. "Sully" Sullenberger decided to ditch the plane in the Hudson River close to vessels moving about the water "to improve chances of recovery," NTSB board member Kitty Higgins said. It was the first time the public heard comments from Sullenberger and first officer Jeffrey B. Skiles describing Thursday's emergency landing. Skiles was flying US Airways Flight 1549, bound for Charlotte, North Carolina, when he noticed a flock of birds less than 90 seconds after the plane had taken off from New York's LaGuardia International Airport, Higgins said. In an instant, the plane was rocked by loud thuds and both engines went out, Higgins said. Watch the plane hit the water » . "He commented on the formation, and he said the next thing he knew, the windscreen was filled with birds. There was no time to take evasive action," Higgins said. Sullenberger took control of the aircraft while Skiles began complicated procedures to try to restart the engines, Higgins said. Sullenberger thought the plane was moving "too low, too slow" to risk returning to LaGuardia through the maze of buildings. Nor did Sullenberger think the powerless aircraft could make it over the densely populated New Jersey area to Teterboro, Higgins said. "There could be catastrophic consequences if we didn't make it," she quoted Sullenberger as saying. Watch CNN's Lisa Sylvester report on the pilots » . City officials, passengers and aviation experts have lauded Sullenberger and the flight crew for their handling of the landing and also praised first responders who acted quickly to minimize passengers' injuries in below-freezing temperatures. All 155 people on board the plane survived. "These are both very experienced pilots. They knew what they had to do," Higgins said. Neither Sullenberger nor Skiles attended the news conference. Earlier in the day, the NTSB revealed the content of communications between the cockpit and controllers at LaGuardia in the brief period during which the incident unfolded. "This is cactus 1549, hit birds, we lost thrust in both engines," Sullenberger told controllers at approximately 3:27 p.m. Thursday. "We're turning back towards LaGuardia." Controllers immediately began preparations to clear a runway for an emergency landing, but less than a minute later, Sullenberger reported that the aircraft wouldn't make it, Higgins said. The last communication from the plane to controllers, Higgins said, was the pilot saying, "We're gonna be in the Hudson." Watch a former pilot tell how to water-land a plane » . Higgins also quoted two of the flight's attendants, who were in jump seats at the front of the aircraft when they heard a loud thud shortly after takeoff. "It was a sound that neither one of them had ever heard before," Higgins said. "They said all the engine noise ceased. They described it as complete silence, like a library." Efforts to raise the jetliner from the river proved successful late Saturday, as cranes lifted it clear of the water about 11:30 p.m. ET following several hours of work by crews in frigid conditions. Video from the scene showed the right side of the aircraft with the engine intact but its covering mangled. It was not clear visually whether the damage was from an in-flight incident or from the landing impact. Investigators planned to tow the plane on a barge to an undisclosed location for their examination. Watch water wash over the plane » . Searchers using sonar think they have found the left engine on the river bottom. Divers will try to confirm the finding, Higgins said. Watch workers begin the retrieval process » . The flight data and cockpit voice recorders -- both crucial to determining exactly what happened Thursday -- remained on the aircraft, which was still largely submerged in the Hudson River but was secured to moorings. Strong currents and cold water thwarted divers' efforts to retrieve the recorders from the tail section of the jetliner, Higgins said. Also Saturday, authorities released audio and transcripts of two 911 calls from people who said they saw that the plane was in trouble. Listen to callers report plane in the river » . One caller said he saw the plane descend and reported hearing a loud noise shortly after the aircraft took off. "Oh, my God! It was a big plane, I heard a big boom just now. We looked up, and the plane came straight over us, and it was turning. Oh, my God!" a man calling from the Bronx told a 911 operator at 3:29 p.m., three minutes after the plane left LaGuardia. Minutes later, at 3:33 p.m., a woman called 911 and reported seeing the plane in the water. "A plane has just crashed into the Hudson River," she told an operator. "A US Air big DC-9 or -10 has crashed into the Hudson River. ... Oh, my gosh!" CNN's Mike Brooks, Jeanne Meserve, Richard Davis and Mike Ahlers contributed to this report. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] NEW: Crews hoist US Airways Flight 1549 from icy Hudson River . Pilot said aircraft was flying "too low, too slow" to risk returning to airport . Plane in air less than 90 seconds when collision occurred . One engine in river, one still attached, investigators say . [/SUMMARY]</s>

NEW: Crews hoist US Airways Flight 1549 from icy Hudson River . Pilot said aircraft was flying "too low, too slow" to risk returning to airport . Plane in air less than 90 seconds when collision occurred . One engine in river, one still attached, investigators say .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- Nigerians took to the streets for the second day of a nationwide strike Tuesday, showing their anger over a government decision that has more than doubled fuel prices in the largely impoverished country. Some protests over the end of fuel subsidies were marred by clashes that left 16 people dead and 205 injured, according to a tally collected by the Nigerian Red Cross Tuesday. The strike, continued religious violence in the north and a long-simmering separatist movement are all issues that have created growing problems for Goodluck Jonathan, the country's president, and fueled tensions on the street. The southern state of Edo was a focus for much of the violence, according to the Red Cross figures, with five people killed and 83 injured. The situation is tense amid rumors that people from the north will be attacked, and some 4,000 people have fled their homes and sought refuge in camps, the Red Cross report says. Dan Enowoghomwenma, joint secretary of the Edo state branch of the Red Cross, told CNN three people had died Monday and two Tuesday, as different communities clashed in the state capital, Benin City. One mosque building was burned and another vandalized, with cars and buses also set alight, before the police and military restored calm, he said. He told CNN he did not know if there was a religious motivation for the clashes. Meanwhile, the situation in the northern Nigerian state of Kano was "generally chaotic" Tuesday, the Red Cross reported, with three people killed and 55 injured, some with gunshot wounds. Police in the neighboring state of Kaduna, where one person was killed and three injured, used tear gas to try to disperse protesters gathered in front of the government house, the Red Cross said. In the southwest, violence flared at some rallies in Lagos, the country's commercial capital, as protesters clashed with police, resulting in seven injuries and three deaths, the Red Cross said. Three deaths were also reported in Bauchi, and one in Kwara, according to the Red Cross figures. Other states reported protests that were largely peaceful, despite outbreaks of vandalism and protesters burning tires or blocking roads. CNN iReporter Eromo Egbejule, a Nigerian freelance journalist, attended a protest concert in Lagos Tuesday staged by musician Femi Kuti, son of the legendary Fela Kuti, and said he was proud to be there. "Nigeria loves peace and this is why we are peacefully protesting, even though the Nigerian police and army have inflicted injuries and in some cases, killed innocent people," Egbejule said. "Revolution has come to Nigeria and the youth will spearhead it. Until our demands are met, we are ready to protest every day and make sacrifices." Jonathan tried to explain the need for the end of subsidies in a recent address, telling Nigerians that the government would invest the money in the country's crumbling infrastructure. "My fellow Nigerians, the truth is that we're faced with two basic choices with regards to the management of the petroleum sector," Jonathan said. "Survive economically or continue with a subsidy regime that will continue to undermine our economy." But assurances from the president did not allay fears from many Nigerians who do not trust the government to use the money to improve the country's infrastructure. Another CNN iReporter, 38-year-old filmmaker and web designer Oladapo Bamidele, who filmed protests in Lagos Monday, said Nigerians have lost faith in Jonathan's government. "Nigerians are united in this cause to see corruption dealt with, and eventually removed," he said. There have also been complaints from demonstrators that the police have responded too aggressively. In Kano, a physician who was among the protesters Monday said police there fired on the crowd, injuring at least 13 people. Demonstrators were gathered listening to speeches when police "suddenly came and some were shooting and some were throwing tear gas," said Shehi Ali, vice chairman of the Nigeria Medical Association. Ali said one protester, a 12-year-old boy, was shot in the neck. Another protester was shot in the groin, he said. But Kano Police Commissioner Ibrahim Idris denied that officers fired on protesters. He said that officers were forced to use tear gas on "miscreants and drug addicts" who had tried to storm the governor's residence. Elsewhere, there have been more conflicting reports about the violence. Sanya Femi, a union official, said three union members had been killed by police gunfire during a peaceful protest in Lagos Monday. But Sunday Salailo, a trade union president, said he had no reports of union members dying. Some analysts say the changes could help Nigeria in the future. "If they're prepared to try this petroleum subsidy removal then perhaps they can push through electricity reform too. If they do that, Nigeria's growth can be instead of 7%-8% a year, 10% or 11%," said Charlie Robertson, a chief economist at the global investment firm Renaissance Capital. But many Nigerians view the subsidy as the only benefit of living in an oil-producing country that has little infrastructure, poor roads, high unemployment and intermittent electric power. "Though we know that in the long run, removal of (the) subsidy will help the economy, for now it is a high-profile lifestyle that is unbearable for most Nigerians, and soon the poorer ones will die out," said protester Diane Awunah. CNN's John Defterios, Jack Maddox and Michael Saba, and journalist Vladimir Duthiers contributed to this report. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] NEW: "Revolution has come to Nigeria and the youth will spearhead it," a local journalist says . 16 people have died and 205 are injured following clashes, a Red Cross report says . Tensions are high in some areas, including Edo in the south and Kano to the north . The government's decision to end the subsidy has more than doubled fuel prices . [/SUMMARY]</s>

NEW: "Revolution has come to Nigeria and the youth will spearhead it," a local journalist says . 16 people have died and 205 are injured following clashes, a Red Cross report says . Tensions are high in some areas, including Edo in the south and Kano to the north . The government's decision to end the subsidy has more than doubled fuel prices .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Harriet Arkell . PUBLISHED: . 12:05 EST, 27 November 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 06:58 EST, 28 November 2012 . A University Challenge contestant has been inundated with offers of dates - and even a marriage proposal - after sending pulses racing when she appeared on the BBC quiz show. India Lenon, a classics student at New College Oxford, sent Twitter into meltdown after appearing on the BBC Two show hosted by Jeremy Paxman. The blonde student, who says on her Twitter account that she is a ‘failed model, part-time classicist and future lawyer’, wowed viewers, who normally make do watching with ‘geeks’ on the popular show. Classical beauty: Oxford student India Lenon sent pulses racing when she appeared on the popular BBC quiz show . Brains before beauty: India's New College, Oxford, team beat York University 215-145 . Starter for ten: India Lenon received what she described on Twitter as 'quite extraordinary tweets' after her appearance on University Challenge . Following her performance on the show last night, she attracted a flood of comments on her Twitter page, with one tweeter saying that even Jeremy Paxman was 'giving her the eye'. Don Ferguson, writing on Twitter after India’s appearance on the show, tweeted: 'Lenon is quite lovely......this sexing up of educational TV on BBC is ridiculous. 'Even Paxman is giving the glad eye.' The University Challenge contestant, who is from London and in her early 20s, was so taken with the tweet she ‘retweeted’ it. She was also inundated with offers of dates by Twitter followers asking her out for a drink, with one Robin Hosking even tweeting: 'Amazingly hot. I want to marry her’. Even Chloe Madeley, Richard and Judy’s daughter, tweeted ‘How hot is the girl on University Challenge tonight?’ - again retweeted by the University Challenge contestant. No conferring! India Lenon and her team-mates from New College, Oxford, try to answer quizmaster Jeremy Paxman's question . Glad eye? One Twitter user thought that even programme host Jeremy Paxman was taken by the pretty female contestant . 'Failed model': India Lenon describes herself as a 'failed model, part-time classicist and future lawyer' on her Twitter page. This is a card from one of her model photoshoots . Another Twitter user, Al Davie tweeted: 'First time I’ve heard someone confuse university challenge with babestation.' Another, calling himself Gary tweeted: 'The girl named Lenon has got the whole Scarlett Johansson/Naomi Watts thing going on.' Neil Boyd tweeted: 'The power of TV and twitter but you did look fittt.' India, whose modelling photos from a shoot with Take 2 Model Management are still available online, wrote on Twitter after the string of comments, stating that she had received some ‘quite extraordinary tweets’ since appearing on the show. New College Oxford beat York University 215-145 in the show. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Admiring tweets for New College Oxford student India Lenon . Even had offers of marriage after appearing on BBC quiz show . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Admiring tweets for New College Oxford student India Lenon . Even had offers of marriage after appearing on BBC quiz show .

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<s>[ARTICLE] A mysterious new polio-like illness has infected more than 100 children in the U.S. in the last five months, and only one has made a full recovery, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports. The CDC reports that the strange illness is now being called Acute Flaccid Myelitis. The illness, which has infected 103 children across 34 states, affects the spinal cord, resulting in a sudden onset of weakness in one or more arms or legs. Illness: A mysterious new polio-like illness, Acute Flaccid Myelitis, has infected more than 100 children in the U.S. in the last five months, and only one has made a full recovery (stock image) According to the The Transverse Myelitis Association, there have been various incidents of partial paralysis, weakness in limbs, and total paralysis among the cases. Dr. Teri Schreiner from Children’s Hospital Colorado told TMA that many patients have noted facial weakness as well, weakening muscles used to move the eyes, to swallow, and to speak. The illness infects children around the age of seven and while about two thirds of the children who have been observed for the illness have shown improvement, one third have shown no improvement. And, the CDC reports, only one child has fully recovered. Almost all of the children infected were hospitalized, and some were put on breathing machines. Outbreak: Officials are investigating whether the illness is related to the 2014 outbreak of Enterovirus-D68 (stock image) 'Unfortunately, none of the treatments that we use commonly for acute myelitis have shown much effect with Acute Flaccid Myelitis,' Schreiner said. Keith Van Haren, a child neurologist at Stanford University School of Medicine, told The Atlantic that doctors don't know how to treat or prevent the illness. 'It actually looks just like polio, but that term really freaks out the public-health people,' he said. Although officials do not know the specific cause of the illness, the CDC reports that the polio-like illness is most similar to illnesses caused by enteroviruses, West Nile virus, herpesvirus, and the adenovirus. Recommendations: The CDC is working to pinpoint the cause of the illness, meanwhile, officials recommend frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick people, and disinfecting frequently (stock image) Officials are investigating whether the illness is related to the 2014 outbreak of Enterovirus-D68. The Atlantic reports that neurologists say  the illness may be an effect of the enterovirus outbreak, but the link has yet to be proven. Additionally, enteroviruses rarely cause myelitis, the CDC reports, they usually cause mild illness or a form of meningitis. The CDC is working to pinpoint the cause of the illness, meanwhile, officials recommend frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick people, and disinfecting frequently. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] A strange, new disease similar to polio has infected 103 children across 34 states in the last five months . The illness is being called acute flaccid myelitis . Officials say the recent outbreak of enterovirus-D68 may be to blame . Children, around the age of seven, experience weakness and sometimes total paralysis of the limbs and facial muscles as a result of the illness . [/SUMMARY]</s>

A strange, new disease similar to polio has infected 103 children across 34 states in the last five months . The illness is being called acute flaccid myelitis . Officials say the recent outbreak of enterovirus-D68 may be to blame . Children, around the age of seven, experience weakness and sometimes total paralysis of the limbs and facial muscles as a result of the illness .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- They were there for the view -- spectators awed by a vista of massive waves smashing against the rocky shore. A U.S. Coast Guard rescue boat reaches a man swept out to sea Sunday at Acadia National Park in Maine. But then one wave struck violently, sweeping three people into the churning ocean, one of them a 7-year-old girl. What spectator Mary Ellen Martel saw next were bodies bobbing along in the frothy waters. And in a heartbeat, a day of spectacular surf turned tragic. Watch a dramatic rescue at sea » . Thousands of people flocked to the jagged shoreline of Maine's Acadia National Park on Sunday as Hurricane Bill weakened offshore on its trajectory north and delivered dramatic waves to the New England seaboard. "People were clapping and laughing when the wind would bring the spray over. It was a very festive atmosphere," Martel told CNN in a telephone interview. "It was a warm, sunny day, and everyone was just enjoying the show that Mother Nature was offering, but not everybody knows to stay away from the edge -- or way away from the edge." A section of the shore is known as Thunder Hole, a popular tourist attraction where waves crashing against the shore mimic the sound of thunder. But Sunday, conditions were such that even the walkway to Thunder Hole was closed for the safety of spectators. On a rock cliff about 20 feet above the sea, a wave struck about 11:50 a.m., pushing water onto the ankles of some of the people standing on "top of what we think would be a safe area," Acadia Chief Ranger Stuart West told CNN. People started to turn back, to get farther away from the edge, and then a second, monstrous wave hit them. The unrelenting sea dragged in seven onlookers, forcing four to claw their way back to shore but sweeping three others out into the chilly waters. Two were rescued, but 7-year-old Clio Axlerod of New York perished, West said. Watch preparations for the storm » . Martel, a resident of Maine's Southwest Harbor for more than 35 years and a frequent park visitor, had come there with her husband, and she said she feels "pretty certain" she had been on the same ledge as the three victims swept out to sea. Martel had stood far enough back that the first wave did not affect her much, but when she saw the second coming, she turned her back to protect the camera she used to photograph the surf. She was doused from her shoulders down, she said. She said she knew then she had to get back to the road that led to the area. "When I looked [back], everybody was scrambling to get off the ledge," she said. Her husband, a volunteer firefighter, ran back to offer his help and overheard a woman say that her husband and daughter were swept away from the spot where the Martels and maybe 30 others had been, she said. U.S. Coast Guard rescuers arrived about 20 minutes after the first call and had the tough task of finding the three drifting in the rough seas. "Of course, trying to locate a head in frothy, agitated water like it was is a very difficult operation," West said. "But the rangers on the shore could still spot them." Martel saw bobbing buoys out in the distance, but not until she used a zoom lens on her camera could she tell the buoys from the bodies, she said. At 12:52 p.m., the Coast Guard picked up Simone Pelletier, 12, of Belfast, Maine, and Peter Axlerod, 55, Clio's father. The 7-year-old was found at 3:32 p.m., West said in a statement. Petty Officer Dayton Trubee of the Coast Guard said he was not present during the rescue effort, but heard from his colleagues what happened when they grabbed Peter Axlerod out of the sea's grip. "They told me when they pulled them on board he was exhausted," Trubee said. "He really didn't have any idea what happened to his daughter. He was totally worn out from just struggling." Six others at Acadia suffered broken bones and cuts from the effects of the intense waves, West said. Park officials had warned visitors of the dangers of the surf, West said, but he was not sure whether those seven pulled out by the massive wave got the warning. West said that people ask why rangers didn't just close off the park's shoreline. "The reality is we have so many miles of boundary that if we close up one section people just go to the other section," he said. Instead they concentrate rangers in the areas they know people want to visit, he said. But nature can't be managed. The second wave has been reported by some as a rogue wave, because it was unexpected and "monstrous," said Chief Christopher Wheeler of the Coast Guard's field office for Northern New England. Martel said she did not initially think the waves would be an injurious, "imminent" threat. "It's kind of like a false sense of security, and then out of nowhere comes this monstrous wave that's like, holy moly," Wheeler said. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] People flock to Maine seashore to watch waves stirred up by Hurricane Bill . Enormous wave takes spectators by surprise, sweeps three out to sea . Two are rescued from pounding surf, but 7-year-old girl dies . [/SUMMARY]</s>

People flock to Maine seashore to watch waves stirred up by Hurricane Bill . Enormous wave takes spectators by surprise, sweeps three out to sea . Two are rescued from pounding surf, but 7-year-old girl dies .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Luke Shaw - Knee . Chris Smalling - Hip/Thigh . Jonny Evans - Ankle/Foot . Phil Jones - Hamstring . Ander Herrera - Fractured Rib . Jesse Lingard - Knee . Michael Carrick - Ankle/Foot . Ashley Young - Groin/Pelvis . Manchester United fear that Paddy McNair has joined their list of defensive casualties with the teenager understood to have suffered a hamstring injury in Sunday's win over Everton. McNair, 19, has started the last two games in central defence because of injuries to Jonny Evans, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling. But after he was called up by Northern Ireland on Monday in place of Evans for the Euro 2016 qualifiers against the Faroe Islands and Greece, it emerged that McNair was unable to join up with Michael O'Neill's squad because he could be out for up to three weeks. Paddy McNair is reported to have injured his hamstring during Sunday's match against Everton . McNair has impressed this season having started the last two games for United . Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has complimented McNair following his recent performances . McNair will miss Northern Ireland's qualifiers with the Faroe Islands and Greece . Prior to the news of McNair's injury Irish boss Michael O’Neill said last week that he would resist the temptation to call up the teenager, who has represented his country at Under-17, Under-19 and Under-21 levels. ‘I want to make sure that when we bring Paddy in it’s right for Paddy as much as it’s right for us,’ said O’Neill. ‘He has played one game for United which is fantastic, but it’s a big jump and we have enough quality in defence at the moment.’ Northern Ireland defender Jonny Evans will also be absent from Michael O'Neill's Euro 2016 qualifiers . McNair impressed again in United’s 2-1 win over Everton on Sunday when he came up against £28million striker Romelu Lukaku. United boss Louis van Gaal had already warned his senior defenders that they face a battle to dislodge McNair when they are fit again. ‘I have to select them, do you understand?’ said Van Gaal. ‘Paddy McNair is doing great in my opinion. Players coming back, I have to select them but I have better choice than no choice.’ VIDEO We must improve over 90 minutes - Van Gaal . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] It is understood McNair suffered a hamstring injury in win against Everton . 19-year-old could be ruled out for up to three weeks . The defender was unable to join up with Northern Ireland squad ahead of their Euro 2016 qualifiers against the Faroe Islands and Greece . Teenager has been impressive since making his Premier League debut . Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal had warned his senior defenders that they face a battle to dislodge McNair . [/SUMMARY]</s>

It is understood McNair suffered a hamstring injury in win against Everton . 19-year-old could be ruled out for up to three weeks . The defender was unable to join up with Northern Ireland squad ahead of their Euro 2016 qualifiers against the Faroe Islands and Greece . Teenager has been impressive since making his Premier League debut . Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal had warned his senior defenders that they face a battle to dislodge McNair .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Disney has announced huge profits from its movie studios, the same day it confirmed that the Toy Story franchise will return to cinemas in 2017 with a fourth installment. Pictures such as Frozen, as well as hits from its Marvel Studios subsidiary including The Avengers, Iron Man 3 and Guardians of the Galaxy, made an average of $1billion in global box office receipts, the company's CEO said. Bob Iger talked up the media company's studio successes during an earnings conference Thursday, the same day he announced that Toy Story creator John Lasseter would return to direct the fourth movie in the beloved franchise. Scroll down for video . The return: Disney's movie division had strong results - with particular excitement attendant on the newly-announced Toy Story four, featuring favorites Buzz Lightyear, right, Woody, front and center, T-rex, back right and Mr Potato Head, far left . Update: The new film, featuring tablets where in the 1995 original there was only Etch-a-Sketch, is set for studio release in 2017, and will be directed by creator John Lasseter . However, while Disney's film successes impressed, other holdings including the ABC and ESPN cable networks and other media interests dampened optimism, with the result of an overall drop in the company's share price. Disney's value dipped one per cent yesterday, after announced figures for cable earnings fell short of predictions,CNBC reported. But financial results will do little to halt the enthusiasm around the latest Toy Story film. In a separate announcement, Iger welcomed back John Lasseter, who wrote the story for all three films and directed the first two. He said: 'John created Toy Story and directed its first two films and it's great to have him back directing one of our most valuable properties.' Marvelous: Disney's acquisition of Marvel Studios is paying dividends, with billion-dollar profits from films like Marvel's The Avengers, as well as separate films starring Captain America (Christopher Evans, center), Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr, right) and Thor (Chris Hemsworth, second from left) Newcomer: 2014's Guardians of the Galaxy also contributed to the $1.78billion revenues at Disney Studios . Lasseter himself said the film will 'open a new chapter' in the lives of its main characters, Woody the cowboy and space ranger Buzz Lightyear. The original 1995 film was the first fully computer-animated feature-length film, and made $361million at the box office. Sequels followed with 1999's Toy Story 2, and the much-anticipated Toy Story 3 in 2010. Good news in the movie business comes at a challenging time. Movie studios, TV networks and cable and satellite providers alike are grappling with a changing media industry as more people watch TV and movies online and via streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. HBO made waves recently by saying it would offer a standalone streaming service late next year. Some have speculated that Disney's ESPN network may do the same - but Iger batted away the idea, saying that cable channel bundles are still the best choice for consumers. Keeping on: Older hits including Frozen are still bolstering Disney's bottom line thanks to home releases . Princess cash: Frozen, starring Elsa the Snow Queen, was another of Disney's billion-dollar moneymakers . He said there are 101 million households with a cable or satellite subscription in the U.S., down from 101.5 million last year. He said: 'While clearly the economy has had some impact over the last few years and we do see the millennials seem to be becoming subscribers a little bit later than perhaps they used to, we just feel that when you look at the quality of what's offered, meaning the number channels in the programming across those channels, and you consider the price, that is likely to remain dominant for a long time.' He added that he didn't think there is a need to create a standalone ESPN streaming service since that might erode the popularity of cable bundles. 'To do it at a point where you are endangering your own business model which is already facing a fair amount of challenge because of all the changing dynamics of the media landscape, it doesn't make sense to us right now,' he said. Disney Studios had the strongest results among the media company's divisions. Revenue in that unit climbed 18 per cent to $1.78 billion, with growth both in theatrical distribution due to Maleficent and Guardians of the Galaxy and home entertainment thanks to Frozen and Captain America. Other segments reported higher revenue as well. The Burbank, California company said revenue from media and cable networks rose 5 per cent to $5.22 billion. Revenue from parks and resorts rose 7 per cent to $4 billion. Consumer product revenue rose 7 per cent to $1.07 billion. Overall revenue rose 7 per cent to $12.39 billion, ahead of expectations of $12.36 billion. Fourth-quarter net income rose 8 per cent to $1.5 billion, or 87 cents per share. Excluding one-time items, net income matched analyst expectations of 89 cents per share. The stock dipped less than 2 percent after-hours, having closed at an all-time high of $92 before the report. The stock has been on a dramatic run, nearly doubling in the last two years. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Company earning big on hits like Frozen, The Avengers and Iron Man . Earnings news comes amid excitement about latest Toy Story entrant . Film, due in 2017, will mark the return of original director John Lasseter . However, overall share price fell after Disney fell short on cable earnings . CEO Bob Iger committed to cable bundles, despite streaming competitors . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Company earning big on hits like Frozen, The Avengers and Iron Man . Earnings news comes amid excitement about latest Toy Story entrant . Film, due in 2017, will mark the return of original director John Lasseter . However, overall share price fell after Disney fell short on cable earnings . CEO Bob Iger committed to cable bundles, despite streaming competitors .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Everton’s record signing Romelu Lukaku can expect a rapturous welcome from supporters when he is presented at Goodison Park today ahead of team-mate Leon Osman’s testimonial against Porto. Lukaku, who completed a £28million move from Chelsea last week after a successful loan spell at Everton last season, will be joined on the pitch before kick-off by American World Cup hero Tim Howard, who has returned to Merseyside early to support Osman’s big day. Belgian striker Lukaku, 21, scored 16 goals for Everton last season and his return to Goodison Park on a permanent basis is a real mission statement by manager Roberto Martinez, who is looking for him to form a lethal partnership with rising England star Ross Barkley. Signal of intent: Roberto Martinez's Everton signed Romelu Lukaku for £28m from Chelsea . Happy to be here: Lukaku posted this picture on Instagram on Saturday ahead of the testimonial . Ovations: Lukaku will be presented at Goodison Park on Sunday along with USA World Cup hero Tim Howard . Lukaku decided to leave Stamford Bridge after Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho told him he would not be guaranteed first-team football following the £32m arrival of striker Diego Costa from Atletico Madrid this summer. The added presence today of goalkeeper Howard, who was given an extended break by Martinez following his exploits in Brazil over the summer, where he made a record 16 saves during defeat by Belgium in the last 16 of the World Cup, underlines the popularity of 33-year-old Osman, who made his Everton debut in 2003 and is one of the Premier League’s longest-serving one-club men. Proceeds from today’s 4pm kick-off will go to a number of charities, including the renowned Claire House Childrens’ Hospice which is located on the Wirral across the River Mersey from Liverpool. Legend: Leon Osman's testimonial is between Everton and Porto . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Lukaku will be presented ahead of Leon Osman's testimonial against Porto . Tim Howard will join the Belgian striker after his World Cup heroics . Lukaku signed for Everton in a £28m move from Chelsea . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Lukaku will be presented ahead of Leon Osman's testimonial against Porto . Tim Howard will join the Belgian striker after his World Cup heroics . Lukaku signed for Everton in a £28m move from Chelsea .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Ready for battle: Model Sara McKenna is fighting with Olympic skier Bode Miller, who wants joint custody of McKenna's newborn son . Ski champion Bode Miller's ex-lover - who gave birth to his child last month - has made an appeal not to grant custody of the newborn in the latest drama to come out of a months-long custody fight. Model Sara McKenna claimed in a court filing this week that the famed Olympic skier should not have custody of her son because he lives on a yacht and has substance abuse problems. It's a new twist in an ugly saga between Miller, McKenna and Miller's wife, volleyball player Morgan Beck, whom Miller married late last year. TMZ, which first reported news of the . legal documents, reported that McKenna also claimed Miller did not want . the child, and ask her to have an abortion. Miller, 35, launched his fight for . joint legal and physical custody of McKenna's child just days after Beck . suffered a miscarriage in January. Miller did not return a call from TMZ for comment. Last week, McKenna filed a police report against Beck, claiming online attacks and threatening messages on Twitter. McKenna claims that she was sent a series of online posts from Beck under different accounts that threatened her and insulted her with words like 'c***' and 'bitch.' TMZ reported that the NYPD is taking McKenna's filing seriously, and is investigating. At the time of Miller's custody request, McKenna . told TMZ: 'I will be fighting this in court and will not give up . my son to somebody who did not want him to begin with.' Loss: Bode Miller, with wife and volleyball star Morgan Beck. The couple had a miscarriage in January . Joy: Sara announced her pregnancy on Facebook and proudly revealed what he planned to call the child . On the slopes: Miller pictured last year - is sitting out this season as he recovers from surgery, but any hopes for a quiet recuperation have been in vain . Shortly after McKenna became pregnant last year, Miller began a romance with Beck - and the two married just months later. Beck announced that she was pregnant and . expecting the couple's first child together around Christmas before . revealing several weeks later that she had lost the child. But already the storm between the two women was brewing. War: Last week, McKenna, pictured, filed a police report against Beck, claiming online attacks and threatening messages on Twitter . Just weeks before the wedding, McKenna posted, ‘Go take your . paternity test already Bode. I’m over the way you have been treating us. You can't hide DNA in court documents.’ On . the same day McKenna posted a message directed at 25-year-old Beck: 'If . you make a fake Twitter to ask me questions about your new "fiance" at . least be clever enough not to use your cat’s name #block.'McKenna, . who describes herself as a 'Firefighter, helicopter pilot, former U.S . Marine, model and Ivy Leaguer,' claims that Miller wanted . nothing to do with the child when she first became pregnant. Now she has made it clear that she has no intention of surrendering any rights to the child’s father. In . a clear show of solidarity with her husband last month, Beck . informed McKenna: 'You are stuck with BOTH of us for the rest of your . life.' Miller has also . filed for joint legal and physical custody as well as child support . payments for a child by another woman - Chanel Johnson. Johnson, . now married, is the mother of Miller’s four-year-old daughter Neesyn . Dacey. According to Miller, the two are friends and he was involved in . naming the little girl. Miller . has won five Olympic medals – including a gold at the 2010 Vancouver . Games, holds four World Championships and 33 World Cup wins, which is an . American men's record. He . recently announced his intention to sit this season out as he is . recovering from knee surgery and determined to compete in the 2014 . Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. But for McKenna and Beck, the dispute has often taken a turn for the vicious, and has had an impact on mutual friendships. In January, McKenna could be found lambasting a friend for a perceived betrayal. Yet . only a few months before, the women were excitedly exchanging details of . the impending birth and telling the world how delighted they were to be . friends. In September @Tehren_Anaiis tweets, 'i . am so honored to know such an amazing strong woman like . @Sarah_A_McKenna can't wait to meet little bode babe!' But only last month McKenna is accusing her friend of a 'back stab' by feeding information to Beck. Sara and Morgan pull no punches as one fights for her man and the other fights for her child . Using the screen name Ana appert isn't enough to disguise Morgan's identity as she threatens her rival . Escalating hostilities: McKenna attempts to silence Beck by bringing in the police . 'Trying to be a good parent:' Miller with four-year-old Neesyn Darcey his daughter by Chanel Johnson who is the subject of a custody suit . High flying: The war between helicopter McKenna, left, and Miller's wife, a volleyball player pictured right with Kerri Walsh Jennings, have become extremely bitter . Collateral damage: Former friendships are falling by the wayside as McKenna pits herself against Miller and Beck . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Model Sara McKenna had Olympian's baby last month - he will fight her in court for custody . McKenna claims that Miller didn't want the child, and asked her to have an abortion . Miller already has a four-year-old daughter with Chanel Johnson, whom he has also sued for legal and physical custody . Miller's wife Morgan Beck suffered a miscarriage just days before Miller filed papers for the custody case . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Model Sara McKenna had Olympian's baby last month - he will fight her in court for custody . McKenna claims that Miller didn't want the child, and asked her to have an abortion . Miller already has a four-year-old daughter with Chanel Johnson, whom he has also sued for legal and physical custody . Miller's wife Morgan Beck suffered a miscarriage just days before Miller filed papers for the custody case .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- A Saudi Arabian human rights attorney is asking the government to allow him to represent a woman who was gang-raped -- and then sentenced to prison for speaking out about the case. Human rights groups want Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah to drop charges against the rape victim. The attorney, Abdulrahman al-Lahim, had his license revoked last week by a judge for speaking to the Saudi-controlled media about the case, al-Lahim told CNN. The judge more than doubled the sentence against al-Lahim's 19-year-old client because she spoke to the media about the case, a court source told Arab News, an English-language Middle Eastern daily newspaper. The woman -- who was initially sentenced in October 2006 to 90 lashes -- had her sentenced increased to 200 lashes and was ordered to serve six months in prison under Saudi Arabia's strict Islamic law. "We were shocked," al-Lahim said of the increased sentence. CNN has been unable to reach Saudi government officials for comment on this report, despite repeated requests. Watch the emotional toll the crime took on the rape victim » . Al-Lahim had petitioned the court to sentence the attackers to the death penalty, but instead the court agreed to increase their jail sentences, which had been two to three years, to two to nine years, al-Lahim said. The case has sparked outrage among human rights groups. "Barring the lawyer from representing the victim in court is almost equivalent to the rape crime itself," said Fawzeyah al-Oyouni, founding member of the newly formed Saudi Association for the Defense of Women's Rights. "This is not just about the girl, it's about every woman in Saudi Arabia," she said. "We're fearing for our lives and the lives of our sisters and our daughters and every Saudi woman out there. We're afraid of going out in the streets." Human Rights Watch said it has called on Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah "to immediely void the verdict and drop all charges against the rape victim and to order the court to end its harassment of her lawyer." The woman, who is married, and an unrelated man were abducted and she was raped by a group of seven men more than a year ago, the lawyer said. The male victim was also given an increased sentence of 200 lashes and six months in prison, al-Lahim said. The man and woman were attacked after they met so she could retrieve an old photograph of herself from him, according to al-Lahim. Citing phone records from the police investigation, al-Lahim said the man was trying to blackmail his client. He noted the photo she was trying to retrieve was harmless and did not show his client in any compromising position. Al-Lahim said the man tried to blame his client for insisting on meeting him that day. It is illegal for a woman to meet with an unrelated male under Saudi's Islamic law. Al-Lahim has been ordered to attend a disciplinary hearing at the Ministry of Justice next month, where he faces a possible three-year suspension and disbarment, according to Human Rights Watch. He told CNN he has appealed to the Ministry of Justice to reinstate his law license and plans to meet with Justice Minister Abdullah bin Muhammad bin Ibrahim Al Al-Sheikh. "Currently she doesn't have a lawyer, and I feel they're doing this to isolate her and deprive her from her basic rights," he said. "We will not accept this judgment and I'll do my best to continue representing her because justice needs to take place." He said the handling of the case is a direct contradiction of judicial reforms announced by the Saudi king earlier this month. "The Ministry of Justice needs to have a very clear standing regarding this case because I consider this decision to be judiciary mutiny against the reform that King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz started and against Saudi women who are being victimized because of such decisions," he said. Saudi Arabia's Islamic law or sharia is not written and, therefore, subject to a wide array of interpretations. Human Rights Watch points out that a judge in Jeddah threw out a lawyer simply because he was a member of the Ismaili faith, a branch of Shia Islam. Under Saudi law, women are subject to numerous restrictions, including a strict dress code, a prohibition against driving and a requirement that they get a man's permission to travel or have surgery. Women are also not allowed to testify in court unless it is about a private matter that was not observed by a man, and they are not allowed to vote. The Saudi government recently has taken some steps toward bettering the situation of women in the kingdom, including the establishment earlier this year of special courts to handle domestic abuse cases, adoption of a new labor law that addresses working women's rights and creation of a human rights commission. Christoph Wilcke of Human Rights Watch praised the female rape victim and her attorney for speaking out about the case, which he said may be indicative of "many injustices that we still don't know about." "It's not only one court, it is the Saudi government that is fully behind punishing a woman who's been raped [and] punishing the lawyer who's trying to help her and doing that both because they've spoken to the media," Wilcke told CNN. "And if they hadn't spoken to the media, we wouldn't know about it." Shying away from criticism of key ally, State Department spokesman Sean McCormack called the case and the punishment "surprising" and "astonishing." "While this is a judicial procedure -- part of a judicial procedure -- overseas in courts outside of our country, still while it is very difficult to offer any detailed comment about this situation, I think most people would be quite astonished by the situation, " McCormack said. "I can't get involved in specific court cases in Saudi Arabia dealing with its own citizens. But most people here would be quite surprised to learn of the circumstances and then the punishment meted out," he said. E-mail to a friend . CNN's Saad Abedine and Mohammed Jamjoom contributed to this report . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Woman sentenced to 200 lashes and six months in jail under Islamic law . Judge more than doubled 19-year-old's sentence for speaking to the media . Woman's lawyer loses law license for speaking to Saudi-controlled media . Human rights group: Lawyer faces three-year suspension and disbarment . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Woman sentenced to 200 lashes and six months in jail under Islamic law . Judge more than doubled 19-year-old's sentence for speaking to the media . Woman's lawyer loses law license for speaking to Saudi-controlled media . Human rights group: Lawyer faces three-year suspension and disbarment .

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<s>[ARTICLE] A 19-year-old college student announced for the first time Thursday that she was an undocumented immigrant while addressing Hillary Clinton at an event in New York City. Nova Bajamonti was picked to ask the former Secretary of State a question at a 'No Ceilings' event at the Lower Eastside Girls Club on Thursday. 'For the first time publicly, I want to say that I am an undocumented immigrant,' Ms Bajamonti said before tearing up. Hiding no more: 19-year-old college student Nova Bajamonti came out Thursday as an undocumented immigrant at an event with Hillary and Chelsea Clinton, moderated by actress America Ferrera . Her own glass ceiling: The 19-year-old says she moved to the country when she was just five years old from Split, Serbia and that her citizenship status has made it impossible to get a job or even a loan to attend her dream college. Pictured above in a photo posted on her Facebook . The unexpected announcement took many in the audience by surprise, but the brave teen was quickly showered in applause. She went on to explain that she moved to the United States when she was just 5 years old from Split, Serbia and that her status as an illegal immigrant keeps her from achieving many of her dreams. 'I don't have the documentation I need to get a job, to vote, which is essential to women's representation, to buy an apartment, to take out a loan to go to college, so I couldn't even go to my dream college because of that,' she said. According to her Facebook profile, Ms Bajamonti attends Brooklyn College. That's when she turned the conversation towards Clinton, asking her what can be done to help her situation. 'What do we need to do to put this in priority when it comes to Congress, because this is an extreme glass ceiling to me that I can't even control?' Ms Bajamonti asked. Fighter: linton commended Ms Bajamonti for her bravery in making the announcement and went on to say she would continue to fight for immigration reform . The former first lady and presidential hopeful, then took the microphone and praised Ms Bajamonti for her act of courage. 'That was incredibly brave, and I thank you for doing that because it is important to put ourselves in other people’s shoes,' Clinton said. Clinton went on to explain that she supports immigration reform and that she believes the U.S. should do more to welcome people like Ms Bajamonti 'and 11 million others who have made contributions to our country'. 'I am a huge supporter of immigration reform and a path to citizenship and will continue to advocate for that,' Clinton said. 'I'm pregnant': Clinton's daughter Chelsea also attended the event and made a shocking announcement of her own . Clinton's daughter Chelsea was at the event moderated by actress America Ferrera as well, and Bajamonti's announcement came just before Chelsea shared shocking news of her own: that she's pregnant. At the end of the event, Chelsea said that she and husband Marc are expecting their first child later this year. 'And I certainly feel all the better whether it's a girl or a boy that she or he will grow up in a world full of so many strong, young female leaders,' Chelsea said. 'So thank you for inspiring me and thank you for inspiring future generations.' [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Brooklyn College student Nova Bajamonti announced that she was an illegal immigrant at an event in New York City today . The 19-year-old told Clinton and the audience at the Lower Eastside Girls Club that she moved to the U.S. when she was five from Split, Serbia . Ms Bajamonti explained that her citizenship status has kept her from getting a job or securing a loan so she could go to her dream school . Clinton praised the young woman for making the announcement and went on to say that she supports immigration reform . The former Secretary of State said she would continue to fight for a path to citizenship for the estimated 11million illegal immigrants in the U.S. [/SUMMARY]</s>

Brooklyn College student Nova Bajamonti announced that she was an illegal immigrant at an event in New York City today . The 19-year-old told Clinton and the audience at the Lower Eastside Girls Club that she moved to the U.S. when she was five from Split, Serbia . Ms Bajamonti explained that her citizenship status has kept her from getting a job or securing a loan so she could go to her dream school . Clinton praised the young woman for making the announcement and went on to say that she supports immigration reform . The former Secretary of State said she would continue to fight for a path to citizenship for the estimated 11million illegal immigrants in the U.S.

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Bianca London . From Instagram to Snapchat, photo sharing apps have taken the digital world by storm. Today everyone can be a photographer as we snap, edit and share our best views with the world. And now, one photographer is taking the photo sharing concept one step further with new site PhotoYOLO designed to deliver photographs from complete strangers to your inbox. Sharing: A new site called PhotoYOLO sends subscribers a photo of a stranger from anywhere in the world every single day . The concept behind the site is simple: . sign up using your email address and every day a random photo will be delivered . to your inbox from somebody that you don't know. The service, set up by travel and lifestyle . photographer, Kaitlyn Reed, is inspired by The Listserve, . a lottery where the winner gets the opportunity to write something and . share it with the world. PhotoYOLO describes itself as: 'One photo a . day in your inbox, from a friend you just haven't met yet.' One day you could receive a photo of a cute kitten from someone in Australia, and the next day you could open your inbox to a snap of the beautiful beaches of Thailand. And one day you could be chosen to send your photo to every single subscriber. Describing her new brainchild, Kaitlyn writes: 'A subscriber is chosen each day to share one photo they've taken with the world. What will you share? Brainchild: Set up by travel and lifestyle photographer, Kaitlyn Reed, the site describes itself as: 'One photo a day in your inbox, from a friend you just haven't met yet' 'I believe that photos can tell stories too, here's your chance to tell yours.' Speaking to MailOnline, Kaitlyn said: 'I launched the project less than a month ago. It started as a fun little project amongst friends, but the subscription list kept growing! 'Being a photographer, I often wished there was something like daily lotto, but for photos. I googled and couldn't find anything out there, so I made it! 'In each PhotoYOLO a website link of the winner's choosing is attached to their photo. Often times it's their blog, projects, but sometimes it's charities.' And the Twittersphere seems to be enjoying the new photo sharing concept. One user wrote: 'So far I'm loving this > "One photo a day in your inbox, from a friend you just haven't met yet.' Another added: '@gtmcknight AWESOME Photoyolo today!! Thank you! (Costa Rica is awesome, too!).' What will you receive today? One day you could receive a cute animal, and the next a lovely scenic snap from anywhere in the world . While concerns may be raised that the site could go the same way as photo sharing app Snapchat, which saw users sending explicit photos to one another, user Laura Beck says this won't be the case. She writes on Jezebel: 'Well, it could be creepy, but it's well-curated so you're not receiving a photo of a different penis every day. 'Or any penises ever. Not that penises can't be beautiful and artistic. The point is — this is about cool photography, not unclothed penises.' Kaitlyn added: 'I'm putting my trust into this little community I'm creating, so I believe everything has been, and will be tasteful. 'Of course, if it turns into a ChatRoulette, monitoring might have to be enforced…. because nobody wants that in their inbox at work!' Tweet fans: The Twittersphere seems to be enjoying the new photo sharing concept, which could see users receiving all sorts of amazing photography from across the globe on a daily basis . Photo sharing is big business. Snapchat, which launched in late 2011 and lets user send snaps to others for less than ten seconds, has already raised around £40 million in venture capital funding. Over 200 million pictures are shared on the service daily and the company is valued at around £534 million. Instagram, a photo editing and sharing app announced in February that they had 100 million active users, only two and a half years after first launching. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Travel photographer has launched PhotoYOLO site inspired by The Listserve . Each day subscribers get a photo delivered to their inbox from a stranger . Could be a kitten from Australia or beach shot from Thailand . Designed to uplift and inspire via friends 'you just haven't met yet' The site is curated to avoid explicit photographs being sent . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Travel photographer has launched PhotoYOLO site inspired by The Listserve . Each day subscribers get a photo delivered to their inbox from a stranger . Could be a kitten from Australia or beach shot from Thailand . Designed to uplift and inspire via friends 'you just haven't met yet' The site is curated to avoid explicit photographs being sent .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- Suffice it to say that of all possible storylines to emerge, heading into the election of a new pope, sensational charges of a shadowy "gay lobby" (possibly linked to blackmail), whose occult influence may have been behind the resignation of Benedict XVI, would be right at the bottom of the Vatican's wish list. Proof of the Vatican's irritation came with a blistering statement Saturday complaining of "unverified, unverifiable or completely false news stories," even suggesting the media is trying to influence the papal election. Two basic questions have to be asked about all this. First, is there really a secret dossier about a network of people inside the Vatican who are linked by their sexual orientation, as Italian newspaper reports have alleged? Second, is this really why Benedict XVI quit? The best answers, respectively, are "maybe" and "probably not." It's a matter of record that at the peak of last year's massive Vatican leaks crisis, Benedict XVI created a commission of three cardinals to investigate the leaks. They submitted an eyes-only report to the pope in mid-December, which has not been made public. It's impossible to confirm whether that report looked into the possibility that people protecting secrets about their sex lives were involved with the leaks, but frankly, it would be surprising if it didn't. There are certainly compelling reasons to consider the hypothesis. In 2007, a Vatican official was caught by an Italian TV network on hidden camera arranging a date through a gay-oriented chat room, and then taking the young man back to his Vatican apartment. In 2010, a papal ceremonial officer was caught on a wiretap arranging liaisons through a Nigerian member of a Vatican choir. Both episodes played out in full public view, and gave the Vatican a black eye. In that context, it would be a little odd if the cardinals didn't at least consider the possibility that insiders leading a double life might be vulnerable to pressure to betray the pope's confidence. That would apply not just to sex, but also potential conflicts of other sorts too, such as financial interests. Vatican officials have said Benedict may authorize giving the report to the 116 cardinals who will elect his successor, so they can factor it into their deliberations. The most immediate fallout is that the affair is likely to strengthen the conviction among many cardinals that the next pope has to lead a serious house-cleaning inside the Vatican's bureaucracy. It seems a stretch, however, to suggest this is the real reason Benedict is leaving. For the most part, one should probably take the pope at his word, that old age and fatigue are the motives for his decision. That said, it's hard not to suspect that the meltdowns and controversies that have dogged Benedict XVI for the last eight years are in the background of why he's so tired. In 2009, at the height of another frenzy surrounding the lifting of the excommunication of a Holocaust-denying traditionalist bishop, Benedict dispatched a plaintive letter to the bishops of the world, voicing hurt for the way he'd been attacked and apologizing for the Vatican's mishandling of the situation. Even if Benedict didn't resign because of any specific crisis, including this latest one, such anguish must have taken its toll. Benedict is a teaching pope, a man who prefers the life of the mind to the nuts and bolts of government, yet an enormous share of his time and energy has been consumed trying to put out internal fires. It's hard to know why Benedict XVI is stepping off the stage, but I doubt it is because of a "gay lobby." The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of John L. Allen Jr. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Benedict XVI not stepping down under pressure from 'gay lobby,' Allen says . Allen: Benedict is a man who prefers the life of the mind to the nuts and bolts of government . However, he says, much of the pope's time has been spent putting out fires . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Benedict XVI not stepping down under pressure from 'gay lobby,' Allen says . Allen: Benedict is a man who prefers the life of the mind to the nuts and bolts of government . However, he says, much of the pope's time has been spent putting out fires .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Fried chicken chain KFC famous for its 'finger lickin' good' slogan has been a mainstay on British high streets since 1965. Now almost 50 years since the opening of its first store, the fast food chain has gone upmarket with a snazzy makeover which aims to give a more homely atmosphere. A branch in Bracknell, in Berkshire, is the first of the country's 870 restaurants to undergo a revamp. Scroll down for videos . The KFC branch in Bracknell, in Berkshire, has undergone a revamp to create a more homely atmosphere . A new feature is a semi-open plan kitchen that will allow diners to see their food being prepared . The red and white plastic has been replaced with brick-effect walls and timber tables, designed to replicate a 'kitchen as the heart of the home' image. Commissioned artists will provide illustrations and photographs to adorn the walls - and the space will be brightly lit by low hanging copper lighting. A new feature added to the restaurants is a semi-open plan kitchen that will allow diners to see their food being prepared. Its design should also allow service to be much faster. At the KFC restaurants, the red and white plastic has been replaced with brick-effect walls and timber tables . Jade Swaby, KFC's creative design manager, said: 'We wanted the design to reflect the fact that, unlike many "fast food" restaurants, at KFC cooks prepare and make fresh food, from scratch, every day – so the sense of the kitchen being the heart of the home really influenced the authentic, inviting design.' Founded by Colonel Harland D Sanders in Kentucky in the 1950s and known for its 'Finger Lickin' Good' slogan until it shortened this to 'So Good' three years ago, KFC has been on British high streets since opening its first UK outlet in Preston in 1965. During the past decade KFC UK and Ireland has nearly doubled the number of chicken products it sells to £690m from £379m in 2004. The new design hopes to create the sense of 'the kitchen being the heart of the home' Almost 50 years since the first store opened in the UK, a new design has been launched . Sales of hot chicken wings have increased from £60m a year to £135m, while overall UK and Ireland revenues have nearly doubled from about £500m to close to £1bn. Earlier this year it was revealed that KFC is planning to create up to 6,500 new jobs with the opening of 150 additional outlets in the UK and Ireland over the next five years. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] KFC branch in Bracknell is the first in the country to undergo a revamp . Red and white plastic replaced with brick-effect walls and timber tables . New design hopes to replicate a 'kitchen as the heart of the home' image . [/SUMMARY]</s>

KFC branch in Bracknell is the first in the country to undergo a revamp . Red and white plastic replaced with brick-effect walls and timber tables . New design hopes to replicate a 'kitchen as the heart of the home' image .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Since Nasa’s mission to Mars got under way on August 6, the Curiously Rover has beamed some astonishing images back to Earth that have left scientists and amateur star-gazers alike scratching their heads and envisioning UFOs. But even seasoned alien watchers were puzzled when the rover making its way through the Red Planet send back the image of what appeared to be a fossilized human finger. YouTube user StephenHannardADGUK, part of a group called Alien Disclosure UK, who had caused a stir on the Internet last week after pointing out white ‘flying objects’ zooming across the Martian sky called attention to a collection of ‘mysterious’ items he spotted in a video from Gale Crater. Ancient digit: A YouTube user claimed that the rover stumbled upon an ancient, fossilized human finger, which in reality is likely just a rock . Martian footwear: Another rock that caught the attention of the UFO enthusiast made him think of a long-forgotten shoe or sandal on the surface of the Red Planet . ‘Mars Curiosty(sp) captures a possible ancient finger, a dome shaped object, a shoe or sandal and a possible Martian creature,’ Hannard wrote in the video description. ‘Are these anomalies real, tricks of the light or something else, as always you decide.’ The image shows what appears to be a rock shaped like a digit with a faint outline at one end that vaguely resembles a fingernail. Another rock found nearby resembles an overturned sandal, and a crevice on another geological formation looks like a smiling Martian critter, NBC reported. Nasa, however, has so far made no ground-breaking announcements regarding the discovery of life forms – or Martian footwear, for that matter - on the Red Planet, leaving UFO enthusiasts guessing and wondering. On August 18, Hannard posted footage in which he applied a series of filters to a Curiosity, revealing what he claimed to be four objects resembling flying saucers hovering in the sky. Martian life form: An image of a rock with a crevice in the middle vaguely resembles a grinning extra-terrestrial critter . ‘Four objects caught by Mars Curiosity, very difficult to make out on original image so I have used a few filters to highlight,’ he said in the video description. ‘What are these four objects? UFOs, Dust particles, or something else? As always you decide.’ Experts, however, came out saying that the four ‘objects’ are actually just dead pixels in the rover's CCD camera — single points in the camera's imager that have lost functionality and register as white. Marc D'Antonio, a photo and video analyst for MUFON [Mutual UFO Network], told Huffington Post, ‘I fully concur at this point that these are dead pixels on the imager. All CCD (cameras) have them, and in a bland atmosphere like that at Mars, they would be very obvious as opposed to an active atmosphere like Earth, where they could end up hidden for a long time before anyone noticed them.’ UFO or camera snafu: The same relentless web user posted footage in which he applied a series of filters to a Curiosity image, revealing what he claimed to be four objects resembling flying saucers . Theory debunked: Experts came out saying that the four 'saucers' are actually just dead pixels in the rover's camera . The YouTube video - posted by a Stephen Hannard - puts the photograph through many different filters to try to find more clues as to their existence. A fourth blob can be seen to the top of this image . Just two days after the rover touched down on Mars, back to Earth caused many UFO hunters to perk up. It seemed that Nasa has itself captured something very strange on camera, including a strange white light dancing across the horizon of the red planet, and four blobs hovering in the sky . While the images are certainly a curiosity, Nasa and photography experts insist that these are nothing more than blemishes on the images, picked up by the camera lens sitting on the rover at a distance of 350 million miles away. So what are the Mars anomalies? View the videos below: . 1) Some internet users claim to be able to see a speck of light rapidly traversing the Martian horizon on the images below . 2) It may not look like much, but on the dry and barren Mars landscape, any movement is unexpected - and some claim to be able to see a light which apparently lifts itself off the ground below . 3) On some returned images from the Curiosity, strange pinpoints appear in the . sky - are they spaceships, or just abnormalities on the camera? So far, Nasa has not commented on any of the strange sightings, but alien hunters have suggested these are alien ships monitoring our baby steps into the universe. Curiosity, a six-wheeled vehicle the . size of a compact car, landed inside a vast, ancient impact crater near . Mars' equator on August 6 after an eight-month, 354-million-mile voyage . through space. Earlier this week , the rover was seen wiggling its wheels back and fourth during . final checks before it sets off across the surface of Mars. Engineers . at mission control have been running a series of tests before the . one-ton vehicle's first drive which is expected in the next couple of . days. The Martian motor was . also shown flexing its extending robotic arm for the first time. The . 7-foot-long (2.1-meter-long) arm maneuvers a turret of tools including a . camera, a drill, a spectrometer, a scoop and mechanisms for sieving and . portioning samples of powdered rock and soil. The . Mars rover Curiosity zapped its first rock on Sunday with a . high-powered laser gun designed to analyze Martian mineral content, and . scientists declared their target practice a success. The . robotic science lab aimed its laser beam at the fist-sized stone nearby . and shot the rock with 30 pulses over a 10-second period, NASA said in a . statement issued from mission control at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory . near Los Angeles. The strange shimmering lights seen by Curiosity: . The original image from the NASA website: The 'UFOs' are faint in this image, but observable through adjusting the contrast and brightness . A close-up of the blobs: Are these glitches in the images - or something a bit more exciting? Decide for yourself: UFOs or dead pixels? [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] UFO hunters claim to have spotted lights in the Martian sky . One web user believes he spotted ancient human finger and overturned shoe on Mars' surface . Experts insist they are nothing more than blemishes on the camera . [/SUMMARY]</s>

UFO hunters claim to have spotted lights in the Martian sky . One web user believes he spotted ancient human finger and overturned shoe on Mars' surface . Experts insist they are nothing more than blemishes on the camera .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Washington (CNN) -- In a graphic example of election-year politics at work, a defense bill that would repeal the military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy got blocked Tuesday in the U.S. Senate by a Republican-led filibuster. The bill stalled on a 56-43 vote, four short of the 60 votes needed to overcome the Republican opposition. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nevada, changed his vote to "no" as a tactical move, allowing him to bring the measure up later. Reid and other Democrats accused Republicans of stalling the National Defense Authorization Act, which traditionally passes with bipartisan support, to undermine the "don't ask, don't tell" repeal and an immigration provision offering a path to citizenship for students and soldiers who are children of illegal immigrants. Republicans countered that Democrats were trying to use defense policy act that authorizes $725 billion in military spending to force through provisions popular with their political base ahead of the November 2 congressional elections. White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs expressed disappointment at the vote but said "we'll keep trying" to get Congress to approve the repeal of the "don't ask, don't tell" policy barring openly gay and lesbian soldiers from the military. A federal judge recently ruled that the "don't ask, don't tell" policy was unconstitutional, and the uncertainty of congressional action after Tuesday's vote further complicated the issue . What's your take on "don't ask, don't tell"? The Human Rights Campaign, a gay rights advocacy group, said in response to the vote that the Justice Department should let the court ruling stand instead of filing an appeal. "We still have a fighting chance to repeal DADT through congressional action, but in the meantime, the best interests of our men and women in uniform -- as well as the country -- are served by doing everything we can do to get rid of this discriminatory law," said Joe Solmonese, the group's president. Debate on the defense bill was rancorous in the run-up to the vote. Republicans accused Reid of trying to prevent them from proposing amendments to the bill and criticized his plan to tack on the immigration provision, known as the DREAM Act. "I've never seen such a cynical use of the needs of the men and women of the military," said GOP Sen. John McCain of Arizona, the top Republican on the Armed Services Committee, calling the expanded bill "a cynical act for political reasons as the election nears to try to salvage what appears to be a losing campaign." Reid countered that the Republican opposition was a blow to gay and lesbian Americans, as well as those born to illegal immigrants, who want to serve their country. "The Defense Department¹s strategic plan explicitly states that passage of the DREAM Act is critical to helping the military shape and maintain a mission-ready all-volunteer force," Reid said in a statement. McCain and other Republicans "should know better than anyone that patriots who step up to serve our grateful nation should be offered a path to citizenship, and that anyone who volunteers to serve should be welcomed regardless of their sexual orientation," Reid's statement said. Republican opponents included some GOP senators who favor lifting the Pentagon's requirement that gays and lesbians keep their sexuality a secret. However, they expressed concern that Democratic leaders could limit GOP amendments to the broader National Defense Authorization Act that includes the "don't ask, don't tell" provision. Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the chamber's top Republican, proposed an agreement for the chamber to consider 20 amendments on a rotating basis, but none could include adding the DREAM Act to the bill. Reid rejected the proposal, saying such an agreement was too great a departure from how the Senate normally conducted its business. Another of the chamber's Democratic leaders, Sen. Dick Durbin of Illinois, said McConnell's proposal was intended to "stop the DREAM Act." With 59 seats in the chamber, Senate Democrats and their allies needed at least one Republican vote to reach the 60 needed to overcome a GOP filibuster. However, none of the moderate Republicans who in the past have voted with Democrats crossed the aisle this time. "I find myself on the horns of a dilemma," Sen. Susan Collins of Maine said before the vote. Collins explained that she supported repeal of the "don't ask, don't tell" policy but "cannot vote to proceed to this bill under a situation that is going to shut down debate and preclude Republican amendments." She called for an agreement that guarantees "full and open debate," adding: "Now is not the time to play politics simply because an election is looming in a few weeks." On Monday, pop star Lady Gaga held a rally to call on both Collins and fellow Maine Republican Sen. Olympia Snowe to join Democrats in overcoming the expected GOP filibuster attempt. Both Snowe and Collins oppose the "don't ask, don't tell" policy, and Collins was the sole Republican vote in the Senate Armed Services Committee in support of getting rid of it. However, both joined the GOP filibuster after Reid refused to change his approach. Reid had said he wanted the Senate to take up the bill now, but no final vote would take place until after the November 2 elections. He rejected the GOP calls for an agreement on how the amendment process would proceed, citing what he called a pattern of Republicans obstructing debate on important policies. The legislation, which is a broad defense policy bill, would rescind "don't ask, don't tell" after the Pentagon completes a review of the repeal's impact on the military. The review is due in December and would serve as the basis for certification by the president, defense secretary and chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff that the military could handle repealing the policy. On Tuesday, the general nominated to head the Marine Corps told a Senate committee that he believes responses from Marines on repealing the "don't ask, don't tell" policy have been mostly negative so far. Gen. James Amos said he had heard that at Marine bases and in Marines' responses to an online survey, the feeling "is predominantly negative." He added, however, "I don't know that as a fact." In written answers to the Senate Armed Services Committee, Amos said he opposes repeal of the "don't ask, don't tell" policy now because it could disrupt cohesion due to "significant change during a period of extended combat operations." At the same time, Amos made clear that he would oversee a repeal if ordered to do so. "The Marine Corps is probably one of the most faithful services you have in our country," Amos said. "And if the law is changed by Congress and signed by the president of the United States, the Marine Corps will get in step and do it smartly." Many Republicans complain that Congress should not step in until after that military review is completed. McCain, the top Republican on the Armed Services Committee, said that approving a repeal provision before finishing the review process would amount to an insult to military personnel. "The most fundamental thing we could do to honor the sacrifice of our troops is to take the time to hear their views," McCain said Tuesday. McCain also cited statements by the heads of the four military branches opposing congressional action on the issue before the review process is completed. Democrats noted that Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Adm. Mike Mullen, the Joint Chiefs chairman, have said publicly that they support repealing "don't ask, don't tell." The military has working groups looking at how to implement the change if ordered. The groups are looking at issues such as housing to entitlements and even personal displays of affection. CNN's Chris Lawrence, Matt Smith and Tom Cohen contributed to this report. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] NEW: McCain accuses Democrats of cynical stance on defense bill . NEW: Durbin says Republicans wanted to kill immigration provision . Defense bill that would repeal the "don't ask, don't tell" military policy is blocked . White House disappointed but says "we'll keep trying" [/SUMMARY]</s>

NEW: McCain accuses Democrats of cynical stance on defense bill . NEW: Durbin says Republicans wanted to kill immigration provision . Defense bill that would repeal the "don't ask, don't tell" military policy is blocked . White House disappointed but says "we'll keep trying"

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<s>[ARTICLE] The passage of 70 years may have taken its toll in other ways. But it has done nothing to dull their memories or dim their pride, as this remarkably powerful collection of photographs makes clear. Gathered for the Mail, these are the men and women of D-Day, then and now. The stakes were never higher than on the morning of June 6, 1944, when an Allied force of 156,000 stormed the Normandy beaches. Eddie Wallace, 90, was serving with 86th Heavy Anti-Aircraft Regiment, Honourable Artillery Company and landed at Juno Beach. The memories are still hauntingly vivid. 'I still can't forget all the dead bodies that were floating around us when we landed,' he says. 'One or two of the lads were sick when they saw that.' Pat Churchill, 90, was with the 2nd Royal Marines Armoured Support Regiment, which landed on Juno Beach. He can't forget all the boats that were sunk. Around 90 landing craft were lost out of 306 vessels on Juno alone. 'There must have been hundreds of men who died and I was thinking, you poor devils,' he recalls. Vera Hay, 92, of the Queen Alexandra's Royal Army Nursing Corps, was one of the first nurses to arrive after D-Day and took care of up to 200 injured soldiers a day at her field hospital, both British troops and German PoWs. 'They needed rehydration, rest and morphine, and we were using a new medicine - penicillin,' she says. Even now, Fred Glover still cannot bring himself to say what’s in his mind when the Last Post sounds. Some things are between him and the chaps who never came home. He would have been among them had an act of kindness to a wounded German not saved him from summary execution. This week, these veterans will return to Normandy, as many do every year. This time, though, they will be accompanied by royalty, heads of state, tens of thousands of well-wishers and battalions of international media for the 70th anniversary of D-Day. Geoff Pattinson, 90, of 9th Battalion, the Parachute Regiment, was in one of the gliders but the tow rope snapped before they got to France, forcing the glider to land. 'I couldn't believe we had landed in England,' he remembers. He flew again that day and was wounded later in Normandy by a German machine gun. David Tibbs, 94, a Captain Medical Officer in the 225th Field Parachute Ambulance, 6th Airborne Division, treated hundreds of paras severely injured in the drop and was awarded the MC. 'I was looking out of the Dakota and saw the surf breaking on the coast,' he recalls. 'At that moment we were given the order to jump.' Frank Rosier, 88, a private serving in 2nd Battalion, the Gloucestershire Regiment, landed on Gold Beach. Three months later, in intensive fighting in Normandy, he was wounded by a mortar, losing his eye. 'The carnage on the beach brought me to a complete standstill,' he remembers. 'It was so horrific it has stuck with me to this day.' Stretched across a 50-mile front, it was a vast battlefield. Yet two of those pictured here will be going back to the same spot. Their story exemplifies the courage and sacrifice of countless Allied troops. Fred Glover and Geoff Pattinson were among 750 men of the Parachute Regiment’s 9th Battalion — 9 Para — whose task was to land at night by parachute and glider and seize the enemy gun battery at Merville, which threatened carnage when thousands of British troops landed on Sword Beach at dawn. Their plan went awry from the start, as much of 9 Para came down in the wrong place. Many drowned in flooded fields, and  commanding officer Lt-Col Terence Otway reached the battery with just 150 men. Eddie Linton, 88, was a Royal Navy able seaman on board the River-class frigate HMS Mourne. His defining memory of that momentous day? 'Coming on deck for watch early that morning and seeing all those ships. I'd never seen so many ships in all my life. That's when I knew something was going to happen.' Fred Glover, 88, was a member of 9 Para, and assigned to crash-land in a glider on the Merville gun battery and take it out. He was wounded, captured, narrowly escaped execution, and later escaped from a Paris hospital, 'When we crashed, we immediately ran into a German patrol,' he remembers, 'and we sprung into action.' Alastair Mackie, 92, an Air Commodore flying Dakotas with the RAF's 233 Squadron, dropped members of the 3rd Parachute Brigade. Taking off at one in the morning, he flew straight to the drop zone. It was hairy stuff, he recalls. 'The Royal Navy were to our right and I was terrified they would mistakenly shoot us down.' Edwin 'Ted' Hunt, 94, was a captain in the Royal Engineers, commanding ferries on Gold Beach. He remembers how quickly the wounded were being attended to and returned to England by landing craft. 'It was hugely reassuring that if we did get injured we could be back in England that afternoon,' he says. One of the three gliders had aborted over England while the other two were shot up on the way in. Fred, in one of them, was shot through the legs. He crawled out of the wreckage and straight into a German patrol that he helped to fight off while the main force heroically overran the battery. Now down to 75 men, 9 Para moved on.Fred was left with two wounded Germans and gave one his morphine. When an enemy patrol arrived he was beaten up and heard a machine pistol being cocked. But then one of the wounded Germans explained how Fred had helped him, and he was spared. Is it any wonder Fred Glover, and all these veterans, remember D-Day as if it were yesterday? This week, let us all remember it too. * Fred Glover will be speaking at Wiltshire’s Chalke Valley History Festival, from June 23 to 29. Other D-Day events include actor Damian Lewis and Normandy re-enactments — cvhf.org.uk . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] These remarkable photographs show the heroes of D-Day as they are today . What these people endured 70 years ago this week guaranteed freedom . Now, they remember those historic events as if they were yesterday . [/SUMMARY]</s>

These remarkable photographs show the heroes of D-Day as they are today . What these people endured 70 years ago this week guaranteed freedom . Now, they remember those historic events as if they were yesterday .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Daniel Miller . Martin Tankleff, pictured after his release from prison in 2007, has settled his wrongful conviction lawsuit for $3.4million . A man who served 17 years in prison after police tricked him into falsely confessing to murdering his parents has settled a wrongful conviction lawsuit against New York state for nearly $3.4million. Martin Tankleff, 42, was convicted in the 1988 killings of his parents in their eastern Long Island home. But he was freed in 2007 after an appeals court found key evidence in his trial was overlooked. Prosecutors ultimately decided against a new trial. His attorneys argued that his confession was coerced and that a family business associate was the real culprit. A spokeswoman for the state attorney general confirmed the settlement, saying it resolves the case on behalf of the state. Tankleff was 17 years old when his parents were bludgeoned and stabbed. He told police he found them on September 7, 1988, in their waterfront home in Belle Terre. His mother was dead; his father was gravely wounded and died a few weeks later. The teenager suggested that a partner in his father's bagel business could be the killer. He said the partner owed Seymour Tankleff hundreds of thousands of dollars. The business partner, Jerry Steuerman, was never charged and has denied involvement in the crimes. After questioning Tankleff at home and at police headquarters, detectives falsely told him that his father had awoken from a coma and named him as the killer. At that point, Tankleff wondered aloud whether he might have 'blacked out' and committed the crimes. Police said they read him his Miranda warning, but Tankleff waived his rights and confessed to attacking his parents. Original trial: Tankleff was 17 years old when his parents were . bludgeoned and stabbed to death at their Long Beach home. He was tricked . into confessing to their murder . Tricked: After questioning Tankleff at home and at . police headquarters, detectives falsely told him that his father had . awoken from a coma and named him as the killer . He said he was angry at his parents over a variety of slights, including being made to drive a 'crummy old Lincoln,' police said. However, Tankleff quickly withdrew the confession, refusing to sign a statement police had prepared. Tankleff was sentenced to 50 years to life in prison after being convicted in one of the nation's first televised trials. The case raised questions about police interrogation tactics and drew the support of the Innocence Project, an organization dedicated to exonerating wrongfully convicted people. A federal lawsuit against Suffolk County and a detective who has admitted he coerced a confession from Tankleff is pending. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Martin Tankleff was tricked into confessing to murdering his parents in 1988 . Detectives said his father had awoken from coma and named him as the killer . Freed in 2007 after appeals court found evidence in his trial was overlooked . Lawsuit against detective who admitted coercing the confession is pending . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Martin Tankleff was tricked into confessing to murdering his parents in 1988 . Detectives said his father had awoken from coma and named him as the killer . Freed in 2007 after appeals court found evidence in his trial was overlooked . Lawsuit against detective who admitted coercing the confession is pending .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Adam Crafton . Follow @@AdamCrafton_ . Manchester United signing Ander Herrera offered a display full of promise in his side’s 7-0 evisceration of LA Galaxy on Wednesday and the statistics reveal that the Spaniard is sure to provide an upgrade on the midfielders that toiled with such difficulty under David Moyes last season. In the dominant victory in Louis van Gaal’s first match in charge of the club in Los Angeles, Herrera earned the man-of-the-match award after a performance of poise and creativity in the United midfield, linking up almost telepathically with his compatriot Juan Mata. Albeit against admittedly mediocre opposition, Herrera enjoyed an encouraging debut, creating three of United’s seven goals as he played the full 90 minutes. Brilliant start: Ander Herrera appears to be the creative spark Manchester United sorely lacked last season . New star? Herrera can be an upgrade on United's midfielders, who struggled to provide assists last season . Wayne Rooney - 10Juan Mata - 4 Javier Hernandez - 3Shinji Kagawa - 3Antonio Valencia - 3Adnan Januzaj - 3Patrice Evra - 3Robin van Persie - 3Phil Jones - 2Danny Welbeck - 1Marouane Fellaini - 1Ashley Young - 1Rafael - 1 . This was as many as any United midfielder managed in the Premier League throughout the whole of last season, with the exception of Juan Mata, who created four after signing for the club from Chelsea in the January transfer window. Herrera’s three assists equalled the tallies of Antonio Valencia, Adnan Januzaj and Shinji Kagawa from the duration of United’s traumatic Premier League season, with the club slumping to 7th position. Herrera, in one match, also dwarfed the single assists registered by under-performers such as Marouane Fellaini and Ashley Young while players including Nani, Darren Fletcher, Anderson, Ryan Giggs and Michael Carrick all failed to create a goal for a team-mate in the 2013/14 campaign. United will hope that the £28.4m Herrera will go some way to correcting the creativity deficit that has seemed to be behind so much of United’s toil in recent times. Hugs: Darren Fletcher (left) and Ander Herrera hug after Manchester United's 7-0 victory over LA Galaxy . Top of the table: Wayne Rooney provided the most assists for Man Utd last season . Dream team? Wayne Rooney (left) and Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal (right) Runner-up: Despite only joining Manchester United in January, Juan Mata was in second place behind Wayne Rooney in terms of goal assists . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] The Spaniard created three of United's seven goals against Galaxy . Wayne Rooney was Man Utd's top creator last season with 10 assists . Juan Mata was second with four - despite only joining in January . They are the only two players who assisted more than three last season . Welbeck, Fellaini and Ashley Young only provided one assist each last year . [/SUMMARY]</s>

The Spaniard created three of United's seven goals against Galaxy . Wayne Rooney was Man Utd's top creator last season with 10 assists . Juan Mata was second with four - despite only joining in January . They are the only two players who assisted more than three last season . Welbeck, Fellaini and Ashley Young only provided one assist each last year .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Lizzie Edmonds . PUBLISHED: . 04:45 EST, 6 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 05:40 EST, 6 January 2014 . Jailed: Rhiann Burnie from Burnley, Lancashire has been sentenced to two years and eight months . A young mother who left her boyfriend fighting for his life after she stabbed him for not calling her while on a night out has been jailed. Rhiann Burnie, 21, punched bricklayer Shane McMullen, 23, then knifed him in the shoulder when he returned from a night out with friends. She then casually lit up a cigarette while standing over his blood-soaked body. Despite the wound, which severed a major artery . and caused significant blood loss, Mr McMullen survived - but has . suffered memory loss and has nightmares of being stabbed again. Burnie who had a reprimand and a caution for battery on her criminal record admitted wounding and was jailed for two years and eight months. Sentencing, Recorder Andrew Long told Burnie: 'You sometimes deliberately set out to be confrontational with him. 'Throughout all of this, Mr McMullen never used violence against you, which in the circumstances was extraordinarily restrained, given the provocation. 'I am satisfied you were well aware you had caused him serious injury. 'Rather than offer him help or call an ambulance, you lit and smoked a cigarette. It’s clear Shane was close to death and only the skill of the medical team which operated on him saved his life.' 'He continues to suffer physical and psychological effects from what you did and is likely to do so for some considerable time.' Burnley Crown Court was told the couple had been in a relationship for a year and initially were 'happy and healthy' yet a 'darker, more sinister side' of Burnie's character emerged. Burnie had on two previous occasions turned on him with a knife with Mr McMullen having to wrestle it off her. Mr McMullen lied at work about a black eye Burnie had given him, but never thought she was capable of using a knife and would often leave the house to let her cool down. She had also smashed doors and furniture during heated arguments and had revealed she had been advised to attend anger management courses. Happier times: Shane McMullen with partner Rhiann Burnie, who stabbed him with a knife after he failed to call her every two hours while on a night out . Rachel Woods, prosecuting, added: 'She revealed a different side of her character, a volatile side, an aggressive side, an unpredictable side where she would lose her temper and damage the property and furniture, doors, in a fit of rage. 'No sooner would she blow up she would calm down. In flashes of temper the knife would come out and then matters would calm down - Mr McMullen had little realisation what lay ahead.' Mr McMullen saw the previous threats as empty and never thought she was capable of using a knife. He would often leave the house to let her cool down. Miss Woods added: 'It is quite apparent that she was very keen to know exactly what he was up to that evening. She had run out of credit on her own mobile phone and so she kept his so that they could continue contact throughout the evening. Violent: Rhiann Burnie and her partner had been happy in their relationship, but a 'darker side' of the young mother emerged . 'He telephoned her and spoke to her before he went to the party, not causing any difficulty at that stage. He made the error of not keeping in contact with the defendant.' The court heard Mr McMullen arrived at Burnie's home in Burnley after the function and she was said to be 'not best pleased'. She was so annoyed she punched him in the face fracturing his nose and leaving him with a black eye. She then went to the pub and continued drinking at a friend's house before returning home at around 3am. On arriving back she taunted Mr McMullen, telling him that she had been with another man. He got up and dressed before making an attempt to leave. But as he did so Burnie took the kitchen knife and attacked him in a 'fit of rage, or jealousy, or control,' added Miss Woods. Mr McMullen staggered into the backyard where he was found in the backyard with a blood soaked shirt. Police arrested Burnie but she initially claimed her boyfriend had come home injured, before suggesting there must have been an intruder at the house. She also refused 'point blank' to tell officers Mr McMullen's name, instead giving a false, foreign name despite police needing to call a next of kin. She then claimed she hadn't realised how serious his injuries were and only sought help when she looked out of a back window and saw him turning grey and eyes rolling. Miss Woods said: 'She claims that she was unaware that he had a serious injury and thought about turning the lights off and going to bed. She told the police she had a cigarette and she mopped up the blood in the kitchen.' 'The defendant did later accept that when she got back she was still annoyed and cross that he had left her alone whilst he was enjoying himself. 'She accepts that she had gone upstairs to the bedroom where he was sleeping and taunted him and tried to get a reaction out of him claiming she had just been with another man. 'There was a row in which she claims she was pinned down on the bed by him by her wrists, because he was angry and shouted. She accepted he didn't hit or hurt her.' In a videotaped interview Mr McMullen said: 'I went to the engagement do with all my mates and I forgot to ring her. I remember just coming round in hospital. I think my brain shut down.' Previous: Burnie had threatened Mr McMullen - who is now living back with his parents - with a knife twice before . He said of the relationship: 'It was good up until eight months. She just started going loopy like screaming and shouting all the time and throwing stuff about in the house, breaking stuff then I would have to fix it. 'We'd argue when rough, after we'd been out, then it started happening when we were out and then it was getting worse and worse, we'd argue about little things. 'She would throw anything, like a plate, I thought 'what a nutcase' but she always calmed down. We would be arguing and she would go to hit me, she thought I had been looking at her mates if we were out. If I couldn't calm her down I used to go for a walk. Victim: Shane McMullen told the court: 'She just started going loopy like screaming and shouting all the time and throwing stuff about in the house' 'She picked up a knife before but I never felt threatened. I thought she might have slashed me, I never took much notice because I never felt threatened. 'She got a knife and started waving it around, I said 'what are you doing', she started pointing it about. I was a bit paranoid. This is when it was getting ropey and I was thinking 'this isn't going to work'.' He said he had repaired the bedroom door four times after she broke it by kicking and pushing it through. He said: 'Every time we had an argument she would do that so I would have to repair it. I just think she needs to sort her anger problems out. She used to say people told her to go for anger management, she never really went into it.' 'I have the odd nightmare about being stabbed, not by her, by other people, someone comes and sits on me and stabs me in the chest. I've had it more than once, it makes me wake up. I just try and block it out.' Mr McMullen is now said to be back living with his parents. Burnie was cleared of wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm. In mitigation her lawyer Keith Harrison said she was 'truly remorseful' and extremely ashamed of what she had done. She had been in abusive relationships before the relationship with Mr McMullen but he had not given her any trouble. The barrister continued: 'It may be that became a mechanism she got used to and got used to responding to that by picking up a knife.' 'She didn’t realise he was so badly injured and did not callously sit there waiting for him to expire or sustain serious, long-standing injury. She regrets this may have put his life at risk. She wasn’t thinking straight at the time.' After the case Det Insp Neil Howarth from Lancashire Police said: 'This attack was unprovoked and it was only the skill and expertise of paramedics and medical staff that saved the victim’s life. 'The physical and psychological effects of the attack will remain with him but I hope that this sentence gives him some closure as he wishes to now move forward with his life.'Comparisons have been made between the case and a Coronation Street storyline featuring Kirsty Soames. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Rhiann Burnie jailed for two years and eight months at Burnley Crown Court . Punched and stabbed partner Shane McMullen after a night out . Injuries so severe paramedics who treated him thought he was dead . Mr McMullen has suffered nightmares about being stabbed since attack . Burnie tried to attack him on two previous occasions with knife . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Rhiann Burnie jailed for two years and eight months at Burnley Crown Court . Punched and stabbed partner Shane McMullen after a night out . Injuries so severe paramedics who treated him thought he was dead . Mr McMullen has suffered nightmares about being stabbed since attack . Burnie tried to attack him on two previous occasions with knife .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Atletico Madrid are considering a move for Manchester United midfielder Shinji Kagawa. The Spanish champions are rebuilding their squad this summer and Kagawa, who is one of those players Louis van Gaal is prepared to discard at Old Trafford, has emerged as a target for Atletico manager Diego Simeone. Kagawa, 25, is viewed by Atletico as an alternative to Arsenal's Santi Cazorla. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Kagawa star in funny but strange advert with Gary Lineker . On the move? Atletico Madrid are considering a bid for Shinji Kagawa (centre) The Japanese international arrived at Old Trafford from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2012 but he has struggled to nail down a place in the first-team and has only offered sporadic glimpses of his qualities. Van Gaal has already outlined his belief that the United squad is excessively stocked in Kagawa's preferred No. 10 position and it is understood that Juan Mata, Wayne Rooney and Adnan Januzaj all ahead of him in the pecking order. Kagawa has been frustrated by the failure of both Sir Alex Ferguson and David Moyes to hand him an extended run in his favoured role behind the forward and he has previously spoke of his reluctance to play from the wide positions. Moyes, for his part, argued that Kagawa has been effective playing from the left for  the Japanese national team. In and out: The Japanese international has struggled to nail down a place in the United first-team . Outgoing: Atleti coach Diego Simeone is hoping to strengthen his depleted Spanish side . Nonetheless, with Van Gaal's new 3-5-2 system, the only slot for Kagawa would be in the role that Juan Mata will primarily occupy, with Kagawa too slight to play in a wing-back role. German side Wolfsburg are also monitoring Kagawa and they have previously registered an interest in a player that could be available for around £13million. Borussia Dortmund are not currently prioritising a move to take Kagawa back to Germany but manager Jurgen Klopp remains an admirer and could be tempted into the race, particularly with the future of Marco Reus remaining unclear. Wanted: Diego Simeone is hoping to lure Santi Cazorla (right) away from the Emirates . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Atletico Madrid are considering a bid for Shinji Kagawa . Manchester United midfielder has struggled to fit in at Old Trafford . Diego Simeone on the lookout for an alternative to Arsenal's Santi Cazorla . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Atletico Madrid are considering a bid for Shinji Kagawa . Manchester United midfielder has struggled to fit in at Old Trafford . Diego Simeone on the lookout for an alternative to Arsenal's Santi Cazorla .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Lucy Crossley . PUBLISHED: . 15:24 EST, 3 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 15:24 EST, 3 November 2013 . An abandoned dog dubbed ET because of his hairless and wrinkled body has, like the loveable alien, finally found a home. The terrier cross, who had been dumped in a park in Leeds, West Yorkshire., was completely bald with a severe skin infection when dog wardens brought him to the Dogs Trust. It is thought ET had been surviving on his own for at least one month when he was discovered by a member of the public. Home: The abandoned dog dubbed ET because of his hairless and wrinkled body, has like his film namesake found a home after he was dumped in a park in Leeds, West Yorkshire . Home sweet home: New owner Mary Gledhill fell in love with the dog, who she has renamed Bobby, when she and husband Gerry visited Leeds Dogs Trust . Shaggy dog story: ET suffers from a case of inactive hair follicles, due to a skin irritation, which has caused much of his hair to fall out . ET suffers from a case of inactive hair follicles, due to a skin irritation, which has caused much of his hair to fall out. Amanda Sands, Manager at Dogs Trust Leeds, said: "When he came to us he was very downbeat. 'Because he had little tufts of hair over his body and this really wrinkled skin he did look most peculiar and a bit like a cute little alien - hence the name.' However, after a course of antibiotics, a few washes with medicated shampoo and some decent meals - ET started looking like his usual self. Ms Sands added: 'After about two weeks he started getting better. It's amazing how quickly he responded to treatment. What's in a name: Workers at Dogs Trust named the dog ET because of his tufts of hair and wrinkled skin . On the mend: After a course of antibiotics, a few washes with medicated shampoo and some decent meals - ET started looking like his usual self . 'He is a completely different dog now. He's very handsome, so cheeky and so full of life - I'm so pleased he's in good health again.' The loveable pooch was quickly spotted by retired couple Gerry and Mary Gledhill, who visited Leeds Dog Trust with their granddaughters Vicky, 28, and Gemma, 26. Mr Gledhill said: 'We were all in the same room, but were looking at the dogs individually. 'When I came to where ET was, he was sat in his bed with only his head popping out. 'My first thought, even though I could only see his head, was that he was very handsome. 'At that particular time the staff were opening the kennel doors to give the dogs food. New life: Mr and Mrs Gledhill said they would treat their new dog 'like a prince' 'ET obviously wanted something to eat because he was straight up to get some food. 'We saw his full body then and were immediately taken by him. It is hard to explain, but it was an instinctive feeling we both just had. 'We weren't bothered that he had problems, we just fell in love with him there and then.' The couple then asked if they could take ET for a walk with their granddaughters. Mr Gledhill, 76, who used to work in the power industry, said: 'We knew that any dog we got would be spending a lot of time with Gemma's German Shepherd, called Darcy, so it was important that they got on together. Doppelganger: Staff at Dogs Trust thought the little terrier resembled alien ET from the Stephen Spielberg film . 'Luckily they both hit it off and we all thought that ET was a fantastic dog on the walk. After that it was decided - ET was definitely the dog for us.' Mr and Mrs Gledhill, 75, a retired care worker, picked up their new family member last Tuesday to take him to his new home, and gave him the new name 'Bobby'. 'We have had dogs all our lives,' Mr Gledhill added. 'We absolutely love them and we always treat our dog is well. He will be spoiled no doubt - like a little prince.' [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Terrier cross dubbed ET because of his hairless and wrinkled body . Dog had been surviving on his own for at least a month . Now ET has found a new home with retired couple Gerry and Mary Gledhill . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Terrier cross dubbed ET because of his hairless and wrinkled body . Dog had been surviving on his own for at least a month . Now ET has found a new home with retired couple Gerry and Mary Gledhill .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Dave Molter, 84, collapsed while trying to give his ailing wife Corrine, 83, CPR, police have said . An 84-year-old man collapsed and died while giving his ailing wife CPR, police said. Dave and Corrine Molter, who had been together for more than 60 years, were found dead in their home on Lake Wylie, South Carolina on Monday. Their carer, Brandy Williams, found the couple after kicking open the door when no one answered. It is believed that Mrs Molter, 83, was in the advance stages of Alzheimer's, and that her husband had become her constant companion. Ms Williams, who had visited Mr and Mrs Molter three days a week since May, said the couple shared 'the kind of love you see in the movies.' She told WSOC: ' [They were] just wonderful people. I've never met anybody like that in my life. 'They had the kind of love you see in the movies, not the kind you see in real life.' The couple have a daughter who lives in Hawaii, a son in North Carolina - and siblings in Florida and Maryland. Neighbours said that Mrs Molter had been known to wander from her home and that Mr Molter had taken to following her on walks to make sure she didn't fall into the lake near their home. The couple lived in a house, believed to be one of the oldest in the neighbourhood, that Mr Molter had built himself. Mr Molter was a member of the Steele Creek Masonic Lodge. Friends there said that he brought his wife to meetings because he couldn't leave her. Mr Molter worked on the health and happiness committee, which kept track of births, illnesses, deaths, and any kind of important events in the lives of lodge members. Wray Moxley, a fellow Masonic Lodge member, told WSOC that it was 'fitting' that they died together. He said: 'He really loved her. We all knew if something ever happened, he'd take care of her.' York County Coroner Sabrina Gast said that no autopsies are planned because there was nothing suspicious at the house, and no foul play is suspected. Mr and Mrs Molter's carer Brandy Williams said that the couple, pictured, had the 'kind of love you only see in movies'. They were found in their home on Lake Wylie, South Carolina, by Ms Williams on Monday . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Dave Molter collapsed while giving CPR to ailing wife Corrine, police said . The couple were found dead in their home on Lake Wylie, South Carolina . It is believed that Mrs Molter, 83, was in the advance stages of Alzheimer's . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Dave Molter collapsed while giving CPR to ailing wife Corrine, police said . The couple were found dead in their home on Lake Wylie, South Carolina . It is believed that Mrs Molter, 83, was in the advance stages of Alzheimer's .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- When a man with hands drenched in blood stands just feet away from the body of a person he just hacked to death, still holding the murder weapons, we want to believe he must be crazy. How else can our minds grasp the evidence that someone would carry out an act of such inconceivable brutality? We don't yet know all the details surrounding Wednesday's killing in London. But the fact is we have seen this type of attack before, and even before one of the suspects started ranting to passers-by, we had a pretty good idea what to expect. This killing of a young British soldier was not an act of insanity. It was part of a pattern that has struck in many parts of the world before. This was the product of extreme Islamist radicalism we have all come to recognize. Some will rush to blame Muslims or Islam for what happened, but it's important to be clear and not to mince words. Islam is not the enemy. Muslims are not the enemy. Terrorism is not the enemy. The enemy is the radical Islamist ideology that justifies any atrocity committed for political motives. The enemies are the people who promote this dogma and encourage others to engage in actions that offend and assault our humanity -- and theirs. As information started trickling in from London, the familiar phrases started emerging, confirming our initial suspicions and no doubt disheartening Muslims who would like to see their religion stop having any association with these atrocities. Witnesses said they heard the two men shouting "Allahu Akbar" as they worked to dismember their victim. They say one of them breathlessly declared "By almighty Allah we will never stop fighting you until you leave us alone." A similar attack happened a few years ago in Amsterdam. The Dutch filmmaker and columnist Theo van Gogh was assassinated and nearly decapitated by a Muslim radical angered by van Gogh's work criticizing Islam. The London murderers apparently justified their butchery as resentment over Western troops fighting in Muslim lands. "Muslims are dying daily," the man with the bloody hands said. But before accepting that argument at face value, consider that radical Islamists have found other reasons to slaughter those who offend them. And the threshold for triggering brutality seems rather movable. The Islamist radical who murdered van Gogh, Mohammed Bouyeri, used a knife to pin a letter to his victim's body, explaining his actions and threatening to kill Ayaan Hirsi Ali, an ex-Muslim and friend of the director, who remains a fierce critic of Islam. The letter is a screed against Jews and an attempt to intimidate anyone who speaks critically of Islam. Islamist radicalism provided the twisted justification for the Boston Marathon bombings, for the videotaped decapitation of journalist Daniel Pearl, for the shooting rampage of Maj. Nidal Hassan, who killed 13 people in Fort Hood, Texas. And let's not forget 9/11, the crown jewel of murderous achievements. Their political/religious ideology has motivated killers in Madrid, London, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, as well as Syria, Nigeria, Indonesia and Iraq. The creed that demands murder, sometimes murder-suicide, for perceived offenses against Islam and against Muslims constitutes a threat to societies at large, not just to Westerners and non-Muslims. In fact, a study finds that Muslims are its most numerous victims. While police were still working the crime scene in London, British Prime Minister David Cameron said the attack was probably an act of terrorism. The question of whether this particular incident falls under the label of terrorism is not particularly useful. We will hear discussions about whether the perpetrators belonged to a larger organization or were, instead, "lone wolves" or "self-radicalized." In the end, the purpose was political intimidation, and inciting fear was its political objective. For what it's worth, that's terrorism. But that does not identify the enemy that must be fought. The killing in broad daylight in London's Woolwich neighborhood belongs in the category of Islamist radical attacks, the same that brought 9/11, the Boko Haram massacres in Nigeria, restaurant bombings in Tel Aviv, night club killings in Bali, street explosions in Baghdad, hotel bombings in Amman and many other massacres in many countries. Each incident has its own peculiarities, its own list of grievances. But they all contain the same explosive ideology. Most Muslims strongly oppose this kind of brutality. But a recent Pew poll showed significant minorities favor actions such as suicide bombings "in defense of Islam." A troubling 29% of Egyptian Muslims say suicide bombings can be justified, so do 40% of Muslims in the Palestinian Territories, 15% in Jordan and 18% in Malaysia. The "defense of Islam" means different things to different people. Extremists have killed to defend Islam from modern westernized culture. They have killed women for daring to go to school. The victims often have nothing to do with the alleged offense. The Tsarnaev brothers' victims in Boston had nothing to do with the offenses that angered their killers. An important element in the fight against this pernicious, callous enemy is a campaign to undermine the ideology's appeal within Muslim communities everywhere. There is much work to do, particularly by the vast majority of Muslims who reject extremism, by their leaders who must be pressured by all of us to make the ironclad case that nothing, nothing in the world, justifies the kind of viciousness that assaulted our senses in London and has done so in too many places for too many years. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Frida Ghitis. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Frida Ghitis: We want to believe hacking suspects are crazy to explain the atrocity . Ghitis: But it appears, as it has so often, radical Islamist ideology fueled attack . Islam, Muslims or terrorism are not the enemy, she says. It is this murderous ideology . Ghitis: We need campaigns in Muslim communities everywhere against its appeal . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Frida Ghitis: We want to believe hacking suspects are crazy to explain the atrocity . Ghitis: But it appears, as it has so often, radical Islamist ideology fueled attack . Islam, Muslims or terrorism are not the enemy, she says. It is this murderous ideology . Ghitis: We need campaigns in Muslim communities everywhere against its appeal .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Earthquake experts worldwide expressed shock at the manslaughter convictions of six Italian scientists who failed to predict the deadly L'Aquila quake, warning that the decision could severely harm future research. Two scientists resigned their posts with the government's disaster preparedness agency Tuesday after a court in L'Aquila sentenced six scientists and a government official to six years in prison. The court ruled Monday that the scientists failed to accurately communicate the risk of the 2009 quake, which killed more than 300 people. Luciano Maiani, the physicist who led the National Commission for the Prediction and Prevention of Major Risks, resigned in protest of the verdict Tuesday afternoon, Italy's Civil Protection Agency announced. "The situation created by the sentencing yesterday on the facts from L'Aquila is incompatible with a clear and effective performance of the functions of the commission and its role as a consulting bodies for the state," Maiani said in a statement released by the agency. In addition, Mauro Dolce quit as director of the office that monitors volcano and earthquake threats, the agency said. Dolce will be given another post, it said. Seismologists were aghast at the court's decision, noting that earthquakes remain impossible to forecast with any kind of accuracy. "To predict a large quake on the basis of a relatively commonplace sequence of small earthquakes and to advise the local population to flee" would constitute "both bad science and bad public policy," said David Oglesby, an associate professor in the Earth sciences faculty of the University of California, Riverside. "If scientists can be held personally and legally responsible for situations where predictions don't pan out, then it will be very hard to find scientists to stick their necks out in the future," Oglesby said in a statement. Prosecutors argued that the scientists gave "inaccurate, incomplete and contradictory information about the dangers" facing L'Aquila at a meeting a week before the magnitude-6.3 quake. The experts determined that it was "unlikely" but not impossible that a major quake would take place, despite concern among the city's residents over recent seismic activity. The court agreed, finding the six scientists from the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology and a member of the Civil Protection Agency guilty and ordering Italian authorities to pay 7.8 million euros ($10 million) in damages. "It's chilling that people can be jailed for giving a scientific opinion in the line of their work," Roger Musson, the head of seismic hazard and archives at the British Geological Survey, wrote in a comment published on the organization's Twitter feed. Comments from one of the defendants -- Enzo Boschi, former president of the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology -- suggested that the scientists were shell-shocked by their conviction. "I'm dejected, despairing. I still don't understand what I'm accused of," Boschi said after the ruling, according to ANSA, Italy's official news agency. Boschi and the six others convicted Monday will remain free during the appeal process. The Italian geophysics institute expressed "regret and concern" about the verdict in a statement Monday. It said the ruling "threatens to undermine one of the cornerstones of scientific research: that of freedom of investigation, of open and transparent discussion and sharing of results." Some experts have argued that the issue was a failure of communications, not calculations. Domenico Giardini, who held Boschi's old job at the institute for several months, said last year that the trial was about "the number of weak points in the communication chain." "We all have to work on new, and more clear, protocols, on the transfer of information," said Giardini, who now conducts research in Switzerland. Survivors of the 2009 quake, some of whom who lost relatives or property in the disaster, have voiced anger at the officials who downplayed the risks despite the worries expressed by residents. "I can understand the grief of people who lost loved ones and the frustration that people feel when terrible events happen, especially ones outside their control," Oglesby said. "Convicting honest scientists of manslaughter does nothing to help this situation and may well put a chill on exactly the kind of science that could save lives in the future." The ruling may well change the way experts disclose their opinions, according to David Spiegelhalter, a professor specializing in the public understanding of risk at Cambridge University in Britain. "L'Aquila trial shows public scientists need to take media communication very seriously," he wrote on his Twitter account. "And get indemnity." [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Italian scientists quit government posts over L'Aquila convictions . Seismologists say the decision sets a dangerous precedent . The 2009 earthquake killed more than 300 people in L'Aquila . Prosecutors argued scientists gave residents "incomplete and contradictory" information . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Italian scientists quit government posts over L'Aquila convictions . Seismologists say the decision sets a dangerous precedent . The 2009 earthquake killed more than 300 people in L'Aquila . Prosecutors argued scientists gave residents "incomplete and contradictory" information .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Sarah Michael . and Sarah Dean . A young dance troupe were stranded on a hot plane on the tarmac for hours and eventually forced to sleep in a storeroom by hotel staff after their Qantas flight from Los Angeles to Sydney was delayed. Dance teacher Marianne Howard and the 19 performers she is chaperoning, aged 12-21, were subjected to a long ordeal which saw them stuck on a plane at LAX airport with no food, water or air con before being told their flight was cancelled, she has claimed. The dance troupe from Village Performing Arts Centre in Sydney had been on a three-week trip to New York with Miss Universe runner up Briden Starr, 22, who was not on the flight back to Australia on Monday. Their nightmare journey began when their first connecting plane - from NY to LA - was delayed over a fuel issue. 'We got on the plane in New York and had problems - the plane was so ridiculously old,’ Ms Howard told MailOnline. Stranded: 19 teenage dancers from Sydney were left with nowhere to sleep after their Qantas flight home was cancelled . 'It took ages for them to refuel,' she added. When they eventually arrived at LA airport at 10pm they couldn't board their next flight back home to Sydney until 3am. 'They kept saying to us we're having problems we’re trying to fix it,' Ms Howard said. 'These things happen and I'm a really reasonable person but the treatment of us has just been disgusting, absolutely disgusting,' the angry teacher added. Once they finally boarded the plane at LA they had to wait for another three hours on the tarmac with 'no food and water' before being told the flight was cancelled. The troupe had been on a three-week trip to New York with Miss Universe runner up Briden Starr (pictured), 22, who was not on the flight back to Australia . Deserted: Dance teacher Marianne Howard and the performers she is chaperoning were subjected to a long ordeal which saw them stuck on a plane with no food, water or air con before being told their flight was cancelled, she has claimed . 'We sat on the plane down the back with no air con, we were absolutely cooking… my 12 year old daughter was in tears we were so hot,' Ms Howard explained. Then their journey from hell got even worse. 'When they finally announced close to 6am that the flight was cancelled we lined up for ages to get booked on another flight…. We then all got put into hotels,' she said. The 19 dancers were taken to a hotel in Santa Monica but when they arrived at 6.30am Qantas allegedly hadn't booked or paid for their rooms. 'We get to our hotel by this stage we are all really hungry. We hadn't had dinner and it's after 6am in the morning. 'The hotel there said "we’re really sorry we haven’t received an email from Qantas making payments". 'By this stage I had kids in tears - they were so tired and hungry,’ she explained. 'I asked “Who can we call?” and they said “I don’t know we don’t have a number”.’ Ms Howard complained: ‘They just shuttled us dropped off in the hotel, I didn’t even know who to call we were just shuttled here. ‘ . Bed for three hours: Ms Howard explained how the dancers were all students and didn't have any money and were taken to a storeroom to sleep . The dancers didn’t have a room at first but the hotel staff said they weren’t allowed to sleep in the lobby. 'In the foyer the kids all started falling asleep. Then a man came over and said “Sorry guys but you’re messing up my foyer you’re not allowed to sleep here. If anyone falls asleep I’ll order a shuttle back to the airport”,’ she said. The group were taken to a storeroom to sleep by the hotel staff member. 'It was like where they store tables and chairs for functions – there was no light. We were in that room for three hours,’ she added. 'We said “Please we are hungry can we get cups of tea”. They said “no you can purchase water if you like”,’ she claimed. Ms Howard explained how the dancers were all students and didn’t have any money. It was about 9am when Qantas finally paid and they were given rooms. Tired and hungry, they were given $16 breakfast vouchers for the buffet which actually cost $19.50 – in the end they decided to just eat anyway. On Monday evening, they were taken from the hotel to the airport by a shuttle at about 7pm and at last boarded their plane back to Sydney at about 10.30pm LA time. 'It’s just been fight after fight after fight. I did not speak to anyone from Qantas the entire time. I left messages. I said I needed to speak to someone urgently. The hotel said someone would call me back and to wait in the room,’ Ms Howard said. A Qantas spokesperson told MailOnline: 'Our staff on the ground work hard to minimise the impact of significant delays. This means organising food, transport and accommodation for hundreds of passengers at the last minute. 'In this instance the delay happened at 3am, so that made alternative arrangements challenging. 'We understand as a result that some passengers had a less than satisfactory experience getting from the airport to their accommodation. 'We regret the discomfort and inconvenience caused and have apologised directly to the group affected.' It is understood a small number of passengers reached their hotels ahead of their booking requests and experienced a delay in getting rooms allocated. MailOnline has attempted to contact the hotel for comment but they were unable to speak at the time and said they were not aware of any incident. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Dance teacher Marianne Howard was chaperoning 19 dancers aged 12-21 . They had been in New York for three-weeks on a dance tour . Then their flight from New York to LA was delayed . Their flight from LA to Sydney was cancelled . They were kept on a 'hot plane' for three hours on the tarmac at LAX . Finally taken to a hotel but hotel staff forced them to sleep in a storeroom . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Dance teacher Marianne Howard was chaperoning 19 dancers aged 12-21 . They had been in New York for three-weeks on a dance tour . Then their flight from New York to LA was delayed . Their flight from LA to Sydney was cancelled . They were kept on a 'hot plane' for three hours on the tarmac at LAX . Finally taken to a hotel but hotel staff forced them to sleep in a storeroom .

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<s>[ARTICLE] There may be fewer hours of sunlight as we head towards winter, but it could still be possible to get your daily dose of Vitamin D thanks to a revolutionary mushroom. Eating just three of the Active Health mushrooms, sold by M&S, provides 100 per cent of an adult’s recommended daily allowance. The store spent five years developing the mushrooms, which taste just like the regular variety and also contain Vitamin B5 to fight fatigue and potassium to help maintain normal blood pressure. Scroll down for video . Marks & Spencer says eating just three of its new mushrooms will give you your daily dose of Vitamin D . The mushrooms, which sell for £1.20 for 200 grams, are grown in County Monaghan, Ireland, and naturally enriched with the vitamin by exposure to light. Studies have shown that UV light stimulates the mushrooms to convert natural sterols into Vitamin D. Normally mushrooms are commercially produced in dark warehouses as they do not need sunlight to grow, but the M&S mushrooms receive a carefully-measured amount of bright light to simulate sunlight and trigger the Vitamin D-producing action. The main source of the vitamin for humans is sunlight but it also occurs in some foods such as oily fish and eggs and is necessary for strong bones and teeth. M&S spent five years developing the mushrooms . As many as 70 per cent of Britons are thought to have a Vitamin D insufficiency, which is believed to be caused by diet and the country’s poor weather and short winter days. Claire Hughes, M&S nutritionist, said: ‘It’s taken us over five years to bring these mushrooms to our shelves, but it has been worth the wait – they provide 100 per cent of the recommended daily allowance of Vitamin D and are a delicious way of making dinner even healthier.’ Last year scientists presented a study at the American Society for Biochemistry and Microbiology meeting in Boston showing that any mushrooms could be enriched with Vitamin D by placing them in sunlight between 10am and 3pm for 30 to 60 minutes. Cooking did not remove the nutrient and even harvested mushrooms would continue to produce it as long as they were placed in direct sunlight, according to lead author Dr Michael Holick. He said: ‘Yes, we are talking about regular mushrooms. Just take them out of the packaging and place them in the sunshine. It doesn’t matter which way up they are, after about 30 minutes they should produce a good source of vitamin D.’ Growers in the U.S. and Australia have been using the practice for some years, but the M&S mushrooms are believed to be the first in Europe to have been produced with increased Vitamin D levels in mind. The brand’s Active Health range already includes eggs, milk, yoghurt and cheese with added Vitamin D. Its Brussels sprouts enriched with selenium, which helps thyroid function and could help protect against cancer, will go on sale on October 17. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] M&S spent five years developing the revolutionary mushrooms . Taste just like regular ones, and also contain Vitamin B5 to fight fatigue . Are grown in County Monaghan, Ireland and cost £1.20 for 200 grams . they are naturally enriched in Vitamin D by exposure to light . Normal mushrooms are produced in dark warehouses as do not need light . Around 70 per cent of Britons are thought to have Vitamin D insufficiency . [/SUMMARY]</s>

M&S spent five years developing the revolutionary mushrooms . Taste just like regular ones, and also contain Vitamin B5 to fight fatigue . Are grown in County Monaghan, Ireland and cost £1.20 for 200 grams . they are naturally enriched in Vitamin D by exposure to light . Normal mushrooms are produced in dark warehouses as do not need light . Around 70 per cent of Britons are thought to have Vitamin D insufficiency .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Mike Watkinson has stepped down as Lancashire's cricket director. Watkinson leaves the club in the wake of their relegation to the second division of the LV= County Championship, having spent 32 years with the Red Rose in various capacities. The former England all-rounder, 53, both played for and captained Lancashire before becoming cricket manager in 2002 and, for the last five years, the county's cricket director. Mike Watkinson (left), shares a laugh with Andrew Flintoff last season, his final year of 32 at Lancashire . Watkinson said in a statement he was 'looking forward to a new challenge' after calling time on his Old Trafford career . Lancashire chairman Michael Cairns OBE added: 'I would like to place on record our sincere gratitude to Mike Watkinson for his long-term service of Lancashire County Cricket Club as player, captain, cricket manager and cricket director. 'On behalf of everybody connected with LCCC I would like to wish Mike well with his future endeavours.' Watkinson pictured outside the old pavilion at Old Trafford in 2007 . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Lancashire relegated to LV= County Championship Division Two . Mike Watkinson captained Lancashire before becoming cricket manager . Chairman Mike Cairns wishes Watkinson well . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Lancashire relegated to LV= County Championship Division Two . Mike Watkinson captained Lancashire before becoming cricket manager . Chairman Mike Cairns wishes Watkinson well .

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<s>[ARTICLE] BUCHAREST, Romania (CNN) -- France has agreed to send a battalion of troops to eastern Afghanistan, a NATO spokesman has said. Canadian NATO-led soldiers walk patrol near Kandahar, Afghanistan. James Appathurai told reporters at a briefing that the move will help NATO meet Canada's requirement that it send more troops to the volatile southern province of Kandahar, where Canadian troops are based. Canada agreed this month to extend its commitment of about 2,500 troops until 2011 so long as NATO contributes more troops to Kandahar. There is a "clear unity in the alliance" that the mission in Afghanistan must succeed, Appathurai said. Though 25 NATO allies and 13 other countries have contributed forces, the bulk of the recent fighting has been done by U.S., Canadian, British and Dutch troops. Appathurai also said Thursday that he did not expect NATO applicants Georgia and Ukraine to be put on a membership action plan this summit but, he said, the general sense in terms of membership for the two countries is not "whether, but when." Further discussions regarding those two countries is to resume Thursday, he said. U.S. President George W. Bush has pushed for the admission of Ukraine and Georgia to the military alliance. However, Russia -- which is not a NATO member -- has expressed concerns about the former Soviet republics joining NATO, which has already made members of other former Soviet countries Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia. Appathurai also said a general consensus could not be reached on Macedonia's bid, because of Greece's objections. Greece has threatened to veto Macedonia's bid if its northern neighbor does not agree to change its name. Athens has long argued that the name Macedonia implies territorial claims on its northern province of the same name -- the birthplace, also, of Greece's most revered ancient warrior, Alexander the Great. The name issue must be resolved by the two countries, Appathurai said. E-mail to a friend . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] French move will help NATO meet Canada's Kandahar commitment . Canada agreed to extend commitment as long as other NATO members helped . The bulk of recent fighting has been done by U.S., Canadian, UK and Dutch troops . [/SUMMARY]</s>

French move will help NATO meet Canada's Kandahar commitment . Canada agreed to extend commitment as long as other NATO members helped . The bulk of recent fighting has been done by U.S., Canadian, UK and Dutch troops .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Students at a Mormon church-owned university have launched a protest against a ban on something its namesake once sported: a beard. About 50 young men at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, stormed the campus on bikes, rollerblades and skateboards sporting real or fake beards calling on the school to end the 'outdated' rule. They were all required to signed a 1940s 'honor code' when they joined the school accepting that 'men are expected to be clean-shaven'. Protest: About 50 students stormed Brigham Young University in protest against the ban on beards . But now, they are revolting - and holding up early Mormon leaders as their inspiration. The organizer of the Bike For Beards demonstration on Friday night, Shane Pittson, said: 'I love BYU. I love being a student here but the rule on beards I find particularly outdated.' The 23-year-old international studies major and other students have launched a petition drive to get the school to lift the ban. University spokeswoman Carri Jenkins said students agree to its grooming standards before their first day of class and the beard ban was set in place by students. 'It's nothing against beards. It's just how we choose to represent ourselves at the university,' she told The Salt Lake Tribune. Brigham Young and many other early leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints grew beards as they aged. A statue of Young in downtown Salt Lake City depicts him with a beard, but another at BYU shows him clean-shaven. Agreement: Students at the Mormon church-run school agreed to be clean shaven when they enrolled . The BYU Honor Code, created in the 1940s, states that 'men are expected to be clean-shaven' and beards are not acceptable. But students can be exempted from the prohibition if they have a medical condition such as scarring. Among other things, the university's mandatory student contract also forbids premarital sex, alcohol consumption and tattoos. In 1971, then-university President Dallin Oaks defended the beard ban as 'contemporary and pragmatic,' but he said he would be surprised if it was not eventually changed. At the time, Oaks said beards and long hair on men were elements of 'slovenly appearance' linked to 'protest, revolution and rebellion against authority. They are also symbols of hippie and drug culture.' Pittson enjoyed growing his own beard this summer, but he shaved before the protest. 'I figured it would make more of an impact to say, "I respect the university and here I am abiding by the rules but asking for change," ' he told The Tribune. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] 50 men at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, stormed school . Biked wearing real and fake beards in protest against facial hair ban . All students are required to agree to be clean-shaven on enrollment . But the young men claim early Latter-day Saints leaders had beards . [/SUMMARY]</s>

50 men at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, stormed school . Biked wearing real and fake beards in protest against facial hair ban . All students are required to agree to be clean-shaven on enrollment . But the young men claim early Latter-day Saints leaders had beards .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Sandia researcher Mark Boslough shows the fine points of the 'fireball' that might be expected from an asteroid exploding in Earth's atmosphere, as indicated in a supercomputer simulation . A meteor that exploded over Russia was 30 times brighter than the sun, with the force of 40 Hiroshima atom bombs, said scientists. Their analysis confirmed the meteor crash was the biggest in a century. They also warned it was a wake-up call for humanity about the increased threat of space rocks smashing into the Earth. The 62ft-wide missile exploded in a fireball above the city of Chelyabinsk on February 15, causing damage up to 50 miles away. At its fastest, it was travelling at more than 40,000mph. According to experts, combining the recent Chelyabinsk crash with the 1908 Tunguska explosion over Siberia and the 1963 Bolide blast off the coast of South Africa, data suggests that the rate of small space rocks entering our atmosphere is actually much higher than previously thought. Speaking at at the American Astronomical Society's 2013 Division for Planetary Sciences meeting, Mark Boslough, a physicist at Sandia National Laboratories in New Mexico, explored the implications of the Chelyabinsk airburst event, which happened on October 7 this year. ‘These three data points together suggest that maybe we have underestimated the population of smaller sized objects that can create air bursts,’ said Dr Boslough. ‘We think the airburst hazard is greater than previously thought,’ he added. The 1963 Bolide blast was a 1.1-megaton explosion picked up by a global network of infrasound sensors, but not apparently seen by any observers. Scroll down for videos . This space rock blew apart 18.5 miles above the city of Chelyabinsk, briefly outshining the sun and inflicting severe burns on a number of observers below. It was the largest object to hit the Earth since the Tunguska event of 1908, when an exploding comet or asteroid destroyed 2,000 square kilometres of Siberian forest . The explosion of a previously undetected asteroid about 25 miles from the Russian city of Chelyabinsk, led to widespread blast damage, Space.com reported. According to the University of California, the space rock blew apart 18.5 miles above the city, briefly outshining the sun and inflicting severe burns on a number of observers below. But it has also spurred a wealth of data helping scientists to gauge the object's size, angle of entry and other specifics, Dr Boslough said. He estimates the explosive yield of the most recent space rock was at 400 to 500 kilotonnes, making it the most powerful event since Tunguska. The impact site of the main mass of the Chelyabinsk meteorite in the ice of Lake Chebarkul . 2000 EM26's flyby is almost exactly a year after a meteor unexpectedly exploded above Chelyabinsk, Russia, causing damage and injuring more than 1,000 people with falling glass . A naturally-occurring air burst arises from the explosion of incoming meteors, which explode in the air and not on the ground. Examples include the Tunguska event, the Curuçá River event and the Chelyabinsk meteor event. The term also refers to the detonation of an explosive device such as a nuclear weapon in the air. The principal military advantage of an air burst over a ground burst is that the energy from the explosion  is distributed more evenly over a wider area. The Chelyabinsk meteor, which measured around 20 metres in diameter with a mass of 12,000 tonnes, exploded just 30km above the ground. Fortunately, the meteor came in at an angle to spread its energy sideways, creating less damage on the ground. Peter Brown, a physics professor at the University of Western Ontario in Canada, has collected over 500 videos of the event which injured around 1,500 people as glass windows shattered in the post-explosion shockwave. Dr Boslough believes taking cover on the ground and staying away from windows is the best course of action in the event of another similar occurrence. Writing in journal Acta Astronautica, he predicts the next destructive Near Earth Object (NEO) event will be an airburst and has suggested an outburst warning system should be used to deal with the threat. Three data points suggest that scientists have underestimated the population of smaller sized objects (such as meteors) that can create air bursts. An illustration of an asteroid headed towards Earth is illustrated . U.S. government sensors also documented the Chelyabinsk event and released the data captured to the scientific community. Commenting on another expert's concerns that an air burst could he misinterpreted as a preemptive attack from another country, Dr Boslough said he thought the worries were exaggerated before he watched a number of Chelyabinsk event videos. 'Say that this had happened on an overcast day, where nobody actually saw the streak across the sky. Then you see smoke, hear a large explosion and a lot of things that sound like artillery fire. 'Then imagine it's over a place that's already politically unstable. One of the biggest threats could be that this might lead to a counterattack of somebody because something was misconstrued,' he said. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] U.S. physicist Mark Boslough said collisions from outer space could cause more damage than nuclear explosions . The scientist, at Sandia National Laboratories in New Mexico, believes experts underestimate the population of objects that can make air bursts . The rate of small space rocks entering the Earth's atmosphere is much higher than previously thought, he warns . [/SUMMARY]</s>

U.S. physicist Mark Boslough said collisions from outer space could cause more damage than nuclear explosions . The scientist, at Sandia National Laboratories in New Mexico, believes experts underestimate the population of objects that can make air bursts . The rate of small space rocks entering the Earth's atmosphere is much higher than previously thought, he warns .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN Student News) -- August 29, 2014 . This Friday, we're all about explanation. Why is the U.S. deeply concerned about a terrorist group in another hemisphere? How does the popularity of Russia's president at home contrast with his popularity abroad? What's different about a new ceasefire in the Middle East, and what kind of technology could change the park bench as we know it? We've got it all covered today on CNN Student News. On this page you will find today's show Transcript and a place for you to request to be on the CNN Student News Roll Call. TRANSCRIPT . Click here to access the transcript of today's CNN Student News program. Please note that there may be a delay between the time when the video is available and when the transcript is published. WEEKLY NEWSQUIZ . Click here for a printable version of the Weekly Newsquiz (PDF). 1. What kind of natural disaster struck Northern California on Sunday? 2. What kind of unmanned, SpaceX vehicle recently exploded over Texas during a test launch? 3. A team from what country won this year's Little League World Series? 4. In which borough of New York City would you find Hunts Point? 5. What is the capital of India, where some roads, houses and parks have been overrun by monkeys? 6. What kind of natural disaster has triggered a state of emergency in parts of Guatemala? 7. What is the name of the hurricane that is sending large waves to Southern California? 8. To what country is Burger King planning to move its headquarters from the U.S.? 9. During what war was the U.S. Medal of Honor established for the Navy and Army? 10. What country denies accusations that it has supported rebels in Ukraine with troops and weapons? CNN Student News is created by a team of journalists who consider the Common Core State Standards, national standards in different subject areas, and state standards when producing the show. ROLL CALL . For a chance to be mentioned on the next CNN Student News, comment on the bottom of this page with your school name, mascot, city and state. We will be selecting schools from the comments of the previous show. You must be a teacher or a student age 13 or older to request a mention on the CNN Student News Roll Call! Thank you for using CNN Student News! [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] This page includes the show Transcript . Use the Transcript to help students with reading comprehension and vocabulary . At the bottom of the page, comment for a chance to be mentioned on CNN Student News. You must be a teacher or a student age 13 or older to request a mention on the CNN Student News Roll Call. The Weekly Newsquiz tests students' knowledge of events in the news . [/SUMMARY]</s>

This page includes the show Transcript . Use the Transcript to help students with reading comprehension and vocabulary . At the bottom of the page, comment for a chance to be mentioned on CNN Student News. You must be a teacher or a student age 13 or older to request a mention on the CNN Student News Roll Call. The Weekly Newsquiz tests students' knowledge of events in the news .

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<s>[ARTICLE] The helpless blind puppy dumped at a motorway service station has had his vet bills well and truly covered – thanks to the generosity of Daily Mail readers. The terrified animal – thought to be an eight-week-old miniature Shetland sheepdog – was found cowering in the ladies’ toilets by a shop worker earlier this month. Nearly £2,000 has been raised since his story moved dog-lovers across the country, and yesterday his rescuer thanked everyone who had donated to the appeal. Scroll down for video . Cute: The miniature Shetland sheepdog was discovered in the ladies toilets at a service station in Sandbach, Cheshire. Vets will carry out tests to see if his sight can be restored . Curled up and shaking in fear, the tiny scrap of fur was found by a shop worker at Roadchef Services at Sandbach on the M6 in Cheshire earlier this month. His owner, who has not been traced, is thought to have dumped the puppy – believed to be a miniature Shetland sheepdog aged eight-to-ten weeks – after discovering he was blind. Staff wrapped him in a blanket and gave him some water, and he has now been adopted by maintenance manager Ian Schofield. Colleagues and motorists using the services have been voting to pick a name, in exchange for a donation to charity – with the result due to be announced this week, the overwhelming frontrunner is Louie, after the loo beside which he was found. But with a consultation with a vet specialising in eye problems costing £300 alone, on top of routine jabs, staff also set up an online appeal for help with the bills. On Friday, the total stood at £540, but following publicity in the Mail it had yesterday reached £2,375. Eileen Garner, who pledged £10, wrote: ‘Can’t print what I think of anyone who would do this to such a gorgeous puppy. He’s better off without them.’ Linda Dickson, who gave £20, commented: ‘It broke my heart that anyone could do that. Little puppy must have been so frightened especially as she is blind. Thank goodness for the wonderful people at Sandbach services.’ And Karen Dedman, who gave £20, said: ‘Thank you for taking care of this beautiful dog. Here is a little something to help you with the vet fees.’ Abandoned: The dog, nicknamed Louie by customers, was found in the toilets at a service station in Sandbach, Cheshire . In a message to everyone who had contributed, Mr Schofield wrote: ‘I am overwhelmed by everybody’s generosity and kind words regarding the little one. ‘It has astonished me that there are so many caring people out there.’ He said the puppy was settling in well at his home, with his other dog, a terrier named Belle, acting as his eyes and ears and ‘barking instructions’. If the puppy’s eyesight cannot be restored and there is a sizeable excess in funds, staff are expected to donate the money to another dog-related cause. To give money, go to: http://www.gofundme.com/lf0ga0 . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] A consultation with a vet specialising in eye problems costs £300 alone . So service station staff set up an online appeal for help with the bills . Following publicity in the Mail the fund had yesterday reached £2,375 . [/SUMMARY]</s>

A consultation with a vet specialising in eye problems costs £300 alone . So service station staff set up an online appeal for help with the bills . Following publicity in the Mail the fund had yesterday reached £2,375 .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Nigella Lawson faces the humiliation of being drug tested to prove she is clean if she wants to visit the US. The celebrity cook was barred from boarding a flight to Los Angeles at the weekend after her courtroom admission she took cocaine and cannabis. The US embassy in London has  now invited her to apply for a visa. But law experts have warned that officials are likely to insist she is tested for illegal substances. Scroll down for video . Nigella Lawson in London after she was prevented from flying to the U.S., whose embassy has now invited her to apply for a visa . Miss Lawson, 54, would then have to be . examined by an embassy-approved doctor and provide a clean blood or . urine sample before she could be cleared to travel to the US again. Her . television career in the States – she has recently been a judge on the . American version of cookery show The Taste – is now in peril. The . Daily Mail revealed  yesterday how Miss Lawson was stopped from . getting  on a British Airways flight from Heathrow to LA on  Sunday. She . was barred under strict American laws which technically exclude  any . foreigner who admits committing drugs offences  in their home country – . even if they were never charged  or convicted. Miss . Lawson confessed during the trial of her former assistants in December . that she had snorted cocaine seven times and smoked cannabis in front of . her two children. The lifting of her travel ban could mean Ms Lawson is free to resume her TV career in the US, where she is a judge on talent show, The Taste . Ms Lawson admitted taking cocaine when she appeared at the trial of her and ex-husband Charles Saatchi's personal assistants . The TV . cook told the court she last took cocaine in  2010 to cope with the . ‘intimate terrorism’ of her then-husband, Charles Saatchi, 70. But she . admitted she had smoked cannabis ‘in the  last year of my marriage to . Mr Saatchi’. The couple . divorced last July, suggesting Miss Lawson may have used the drug within . the past 12 months. This could prove significant for the US . authorities, who will insist on drug tests if they believe she has a . recent history of narcotic abuse. Steven . Heller, a US immigration lawyer based in Britain, said: ‘A drugs test . is pretty much standard if there is a suggestion of recent drug use. 'Certainly if there was something within the past year, they would send . her for a drug test.’ It is . understood that as of yesterday Miss Lawson had not applied for a visa . through the US embassy in London. But once she does, she will  be . invited to attend a face- to-face interview with a consular officer. Ahead of her planned trip to LA, Ms Lawson tweeted a pictured of her travel 'essentials', including a sun hat, Colman's mustard and a sachet of salt . As she appeared outside her home in central London this week, Ms Lawson's representatives refused to comment on the travel saga . She . could then be told she needs to attend  a medical examination with . embassy-approved doctors  in Knightsbridge. Adults . seeking a visa in  London must pay £235 for a basic medical examination . and £48 for a drug test, according to a document on the US State . Department’s website. According to one former visa applicant, Miss . Lawson may also have to go through the degrading experience of being . watched as she provides a urine sample to ensure her drug test results . are not faked. Miss Lawson . is thought to have tried to enter the US on Sunday under the visa waiver . programme, whereby travellers must register online and confirm they . have never been arrested for or convicted of certain offences. Ms Lawson was prevented from boarding a flight to LA after arriving at Heathrow Airport's Terminal Five on Sunday morning . A spokesman for the US Embassy said staff understood Ms Lawson has 'professional requirements' in the U.S. and her case would be 'handled routinely and expeditiously' The . specific grounds on which she was barred entry have not been officially . confirmed. She is now expected to engage lawyers to ensure she can . travel freely to America, which she visits regularly both for pleasure . and for work. Miss Lawson . insisted during the trial of her housekeepers, Elisabetta and Francesca . Grillo that she had never been a habitual user of illegal substances and . maintained that she was now drug-free. US . border officers appear  to have hardened their  position since the . start of  January, when Miss Lawson was allowed to fly to New  York to . film an interview promoting the second series of The Taste USA. A . spokesman for the US embassy in London said: ‘There are several ways of . legally travelling into the United States and Miss Lawson has been . invited to come to the embassy and apply for a visa for travel to the . US. ‘We understand she has . professional requirements for US travel and these matters are generally . handled routinely and expeditiously.’ Miss Lawson’s spokesman declined to comment. Many British stars have fallen foul of America’s immigration regulations because of drug use, criminal convictions and reported assaults. Those who have been refused entry visas range from Boy George to Lily Allen, Pete Doherty to Amy Winehouse. However, there are lots of celebrities who have been welcomed into the States – despite well-recorded drug use and criminal records. Former Beatle Sir Paul McCartney admitted taking heroin once, along with cocaine cannabis and LSD but has several houses in the US including a ranch in Arizona (pictured after his arrest in Japan for possession of cannabis) Sir Paul McCartney has spoken openly about his once habitual drug use and until 1973 was repeatedly denied entry into the US. The former Beatle, 71, has admitted to taking heroin on one occasion, as well as cocaine, cannabis and LSD. In an interview in 2004, he said: ‘Just about everyone was doing them in one form or another. We were no different.’ Russel Brand has mad no secret of his past as a heroin addict, and owns a £2million house in LA . His drug use made headlines in 1980 when he was arrested at Tokyo airport with his band Wings after officials discovered half a pound of marijuana in his luggage. He spent ten nights in prison before eventually being deported. Despite this, Sir Paul has several houses in the US, including a Manhattan townhouse and a ranch in Arizona. Since marrying American heiress Nancy Shevell, he now spends a lot of time at their mansion in the exclusive Hamptons. Mick Jagger has also openly admitted taking cocaine, amphetamines and cannabis. In 1967, he and Rolling Stones bandmate Keith Richards were convicted for drug possession and jailed for three months – sentences later quashed on appeal. However, Jagger’s well-documented drug use does not appear to have been a bar to entry to the US. The band have toured there many times and Jagger, 70, spent a lot of time living in New York with his girlfriend L’Wren Scott, who committed suicide last month. Russell Brand is well-known for his heroin addiction and run-ins with the police, having been arrested 12 times. He quit drugs in 2003 and is now patron of addiction charity Focus 12. Despite his past record, however, the star has not been barred from America. He has appeared in a number of Hollywood films and owns a £2million home in LA. Welsh singer Katherine Jenkins, 33, admitted having been a regular user of cocaine and ecstasy but this has not led to a bar on her travel. She competed in the US television show Dancing With The Stars. Mick Jagger (left) has openly admitted taking cocaine, amphetamines and cannabis. He is pictured alongside bandmate Keith Richards after standing trial for drugs offences . Steve Coogan, too, has been open about his past drug use. In an interview in 2011, the comedian and actor, 48, said he started smoking cannabis when he was 22, which developed into a class-A habit. He works in the US regularly, having recently appeared in Oscar-nominated Philomena, and has been living there on and off for more than a decade. In 2007, Lily Allen’s US working visa was revoked after her arrest for assaulting a photographer in London. Amy Winehouse was denied a visa to enter America in 2008 because of her drug record. The singer had earlier been  arrested with her then husband for possession of cannabis. Noel and Liam Gallagher were forced to undergo drug tests before being granted US visas in 1997. The brothers, who were going to New York to promote an album, had been cautioned by British police for cocaine possession a year earlier. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] TV chef barred from boarding a flight at Heathrow after her drug confession . Potential travel ban threatened to ruin her planned career in the U.S. But U.S. authorities have now invited the celebrity cook to apply for visa . Embassy statement offers her hope of returning and is signed off 'stand by' But experts say she now faces a drug test to prove she is clean . [/SUMMARY]</s>

TV chef barred from boarding a flight at Heathrow after her drug confession . Potential travel ban threatened to ruin her planned career in the U.S. But U.S. authorities have now invited the celebrity cook to apply for visa . Embassy statement offers her hope of returning and is signed off 'stand by' But experts say she now faces a drug test to prove she is clean .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Long Beach, California (CNN) -- It was after the robotic hummingbird flew around the auditorium -- and after a speaker talked about the hypersonic plane that could fly from New York to the West Coast in 11 minutes -- that things got really edgy. Vijay Kumar, an engineering professor at the University of Pennsylvania, showed the more than 1,300 attendees at last week's TED conference several videos in which fleets of tiny flying robots performed a series of intricate manuevers, working together on tasks without colliding or interfering with each others' flightworthiness. It seemed that, at least for some in the audience, a bridge had been crossed into a new era of technology, one that could change the way we think about robots and their application to such fields as construction, shipping and responding to emergencies. Kumar's devices (he calls them "Autonomous Agile Aerial Robots") cooperated on building simple structures and showed they were capable of entering a building for the first time and quickly constructing a map that would allow for assessment and response to a structural collapse or fire. He held up one robot, designed by his students Daniel Mellinger and Alex Kushleyev, which weighs a little more than a tenth of a pound and is about 8 inches in diameter. The device has four rotors; when they spin at the same speed, the robot hovers. If you increase the speed, Kumar explained, the robot flies up. Spinning one rotor faster than the one opposite it causes the robot to tilt. It also can flip over multiple times without losing its ability to fly and can recover its stability when thrown into the air. The robots are capable of learning trajectories and manueuvers that can enable them to literally fly through hoops -- and other confined spaces. When the robots are formed into a flotilla, they calculate (a hundred times a second) and maintain a safe distance between them. He showed a video of 20 robots flying in a variety of formations -- and moving through obstacles -- inches from each other without interfering with the stability of their neighbors. To cap his presentation, he showed a video, created by his students in three days, of nine flying robots playing the James Bond theme on musical instruments. TED began in the 1980s with the intention of focusing on "Technology, entertainment and design," and its conferences typically are sold out, attracting an audience of high achievers willing to pay $7,500 to attend. TED, a nonprofit, makes many of the talks freely available on its site. (CNN has a partnership with TED in which it regularly publishes selected TED Talks). TED aims to feature cutting-edge technology at its conferences, and this year's event, labeled "Full Spectrum," was no exception. Yet the uneasy balance between technology and the social issues it spawns seemed to be highlighted more than ever as speakers took the stage to give their talks (and be filmed by eight high-def cameras for eventual viewing on the web). In the first session Tuesday, a sharp contrast was drawn between the unbounding optimism that a technological solution could be found for every one of the Earth's problems and a vision of a planet headed for doom due to mankind's inability to control its inventions and its consumption. Paul Gilding, former head of Greenpeace, declared "the Earth is full, full of us, full of our stuff, full of our waste and full of our demands," and warned of harsh and potentially violent disruption ahead as the reckoning comes for a planet living beyond its means. The idea that the planet can sustain 9 billion people without making disruptive changes is wrong, he said. Peter Diamandis, founder of the X Prize, countered with a catalogue of the ways technology has radically improved our lives -- it has lengthened the human lifespan, conquered many killer diseases, expanded economic opportunity and made possible a worldwide web of communication, already connecting 2 billion people, with 3 billion more on the way to logging in this decade. "Technology is a resource-liberating force," he said, maintaining that a planet bathed in solar energy and covered with water won't lack the ingredients for a productive life. For every tech evangelist, though, there was a cautionary note sounded by other speakers. NASA scientist James Hansen, one of the leading voices warning of global climate change due to carbon emissions, presented an urgent case for taking action to deal with the effects of economic activity before ice caps melt and cities get inundated by dramatic rises in sea level. But an MIT professor, Donald Sadoway, offered reason to hope that the use of non-carbon-emitting solar and wind power could become much more widespread through a new battery technology he and his students are developing to store power for use at times when the wind stops and the sun sets. Sadoway, whose work has attracted an investment from Bill Gates, said successful use of his "liquid metal battery" could reduce the need for new fossil-fuel burning power plants. Regina Dugan, who demonstrated the robotic hummingbird and directs the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, talked of research on a prosthetic arm controlled by thoughts alone, of sturdy cars built with metals lighter than Styrofoam and of a robot that can run like a cheetah. TED.com: Susan Cain on the power of introverts . And yet technology didn't seem to have a solution for the problems highlighted by Bryan Stevenson, director of the Equal Justice Initiative. He talked of the rise in the number of imprisoned Americans from 300,000 40 years ago to 2.3 million today, the large number of black Americans who have been permanently deprived of their ability to vote due to prosecution on low-level drug offenses and the question he said is posed by the death penalty -- not whether criminals deserve to die, but whether America as a society, deserves to kill. Stevenson's talk drew a standing ovation -- and the following day, after TED curator Chris Anderson appealed for funds, Anderson said $1.12 million had been raised for Stevenson's nonprofit on the spot. A longtime enthusiast for digital technology, MIT professor Sherry Turkle, spoke of being on the cover of Wired magazine when her book "Life on the Screen" was published in the 1990s. In her new and darker book, "Alone Together," she writes of everyday family and social relationships put at risk by the compulsion to interact constantly with mobile devices as a substitute for face-to-face interaction. People text during board meetings, shop and text during class, and even text during funerals, she said. Technology gives us the illusion of being constantly in touch with people, yet we shirk the real demands of friendship. And Turkle pointed out that Japanese researchers are developing robots to provide care to the elderly and to children. As if to emphasize her point, a day after her talk, Danish scientist Henrik Scharfe demo'ed Geminoid-DK, a shockingly realistic robot version of himself. While its movement and speech is limited, the robot's technology is likely to evolve quickly. And so it seemed that it wasn't only in jest that Scharfe said, "Ten years from now, I'll be at home having a beer in Denmark and the robot will come to TED to give a talk." Scharfe said after his talk that he recognized the dangers Turkle talked about, but he thought developing the robot was well worth doing. "This can never be about replacing the human being," he said in his talk, "but about using technology to understand the full spectrum of being human." [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Vijay Kumar demonstrated fleets of flying robots that could revolutionize industries . Kumar spoke at the TED2012 conference, "Full Spectrum," in California . Talks highlighted the contrast between technological progress and social issues . Technology has improved health, lifespan, productivity, yet it poses challenges, speakers said . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Vijay Kumar demonstrated fleets of flying robots that could revolutionize industries . Kumar spoke at the TED2012 conference, "Full Spectrum," in California . Talks highlighted the contrast between technological progress and social issues . Technology has improved health, lifespan, productivity, yet it poses challenges, speakers said .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- Rafael Nadal is closing in on an eighth trophy in nine years at the Barcelona Open after storming past Canada's Milos Raonic 6-4 6-0 in the semifinal on Saturday. After a four-hour delay for rain, the Spaniard was soon behind as the No.5 seed won an early break. But Nadal fought back in typically ferocious fashion to take the first set and then overrun Raonic in the second to reach his seventh consecutive final since returning to the ATPTour in February following a knee injury. "I think it was my best match of the whole week," Nadal said, ATPWorldTour.com reported. "He played a fantastic second game on the return. I won the third game, which was very important for the match, because if you are 3-love down against a big server like Milos, you're in big trouble." Nadal will face compatriot Nicolas Almagro in the final at the Real Club de Tenis. The No.4 seed had a similarly straightforward semifinal match against Philipp Kohlschreiber, downing the German 6-2 6-1. "I think I played one of my best matches here in Spain. I felt really good all the time during the match. I'm really happy to be in my first final in Barcelona ... " Almagro said, ATPWorldTour.com reported. "Every match I play against (Rafa) is fantastic. I'm ready for everything, so we will see what I can do on court." It is the 20th time the 27-year-old has reached a World Tour final but he has a 0-8 record against Nadal -- the most recent defeat coming at the semifinal of the Abierto Mexicano Telcel in February. Meanwhile at the WTA event in Stuttgart, defending champion Maria Sharapova booked at place in Sunday's final after beating Germany's Angelique Kerber in three sets 6-3 2-6 7-5. The 26-year-old Russian eventually prevailed in two hours 16 minutes. After being taken the distance by Lucie Safarova and Ana Ivanovic in the previous two rounds, Sharapova dominated the first set of the semifinal breaking Kerber twice. But once again Sharapova was pegged back in the second, as the German rallied to take the set comfortably. The deciding third set was a real battle, as the pair shared five breaks -- the last fell to Sharapova who broke Kerber in the 12th and deciding game. "All credit to Angelique, she played a great match. I won this tournament last year on the way to the French Open so I am really pleased to get back into the final again," Sharapova said. Sharapova will play Li Na in Sunday's final. The World No.5 from China beat America's Bethanie Mattek-Sands in straight sets 6-4 6-3. Li was victorious in her last meeting with the Russian, winning comfortably, 6-2 6-2 in the semifinal of the Australian Open. But Sharapova holds an 8-5 head-to-head record overall. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Rafa Nadal beats Milos Raonic to reach Barcelona Open final . Spaniard will face compatriot Nicolas Almagro in Sunday's final . Maria Sharapova will play Li Na in final of WTA event in Stuttgart . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Rafa Nadal beats Milos Raonic to reach Barcelona Open final . Spaniard will face compatriot Nicolas Almagro in Sunday's final . Maria Sharapova will play Li Na in final of WTA event in Stuttgart .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Charlie Lankston and Kate Taylor . PUBLISHED: . 18:57 EST, 7 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 08:23 EST, 8 December 2013 . There are pirates and princesses, fairy queens  and crocodiles... and the obligatory ragtag army of soap stars, reality celebs and comics. After all, the annual pantomime season would hardly be complete without a sea of ‘famous’ faces imported from our television screens. With Henry ‘The Fonz’ Winkler in Richmond, David Hasselhoff in Nottingham and Bonnie Langford in Guildford, it might seem that some of the stars treading the boards have lost their lustre. Yet no one doubts they will have the last laugh when the curtain comes down – because the majority of this year’s entertainers look set to pocket six-figure sums over Christmas. EastEnders actor Steve McFadden is understood  to be in line for a £200,000 cheque for his role as Captain Hook in Croydon, while talent show duo Ashleigh Butler and Pudsey will earn a cool £500,000 for two seasons playing in Dick Whittington – this year it’s at the Manchester Opera House. It’s been a good business all round ever since the seasonal entertainment found its current form with shows including Puss In Boots 200 years ago. Today, pantomimes earn millions in ticket sales – and their popularity shows no sign of waning with children and adults alike. Not to mention a legion of familiar faces who love nothing better than the chance to wave a magic wand over their pay packets – and, who knows, their careers. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Henry Winkler, David Hasselhoff and Bonnie Langford all starring in panto . Majority of this year's entertainers look set to pocket six-figure sums . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Henry Winkler, David Hasselhoff and Bonnie Langford all starring in panto . Majority of this year's entertainers look set to pocket six-figure sums .

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<s>[ARTICLE] "This is the house?" my mom asks, turning around. "Yes," says our guide. "This is where your grandmother was born." My mother and I have traveled more than 6,000 miles to explore Candia Canavese, a tiny village outside Torino, Italy, founded in the fifth century. We're here to learn more about our heritage and get a sense of where her family is from. We're not the first ones to visit for that reason. Even though Candia Canavese has a population of just 1,200, our guide says plenty of other travelers have come searching for records, data, photos and that intangible sense of history you can't get without visiting a place yourself. Interest in genealogy appears to be at an all-time high, with a recent Harris Interactive Survey indicating that four in five Americans wish to learn more about their family history. Shows like CNN's upcoming "Roots: Our journeys home," along with series "Who do You Think You Are?" and "Finding Your Roots" are gaining in popularity. "People see these programs and they want that experience for themselves," says Michelle Ercanbrack, family historian at Ancestry.com. As a result, she says, more travelers are looking to incorporate family history research into a trip or even plan a standalone journey for the sole purpose of discovering their roots. Want to embark on your own family tree trip? Here are some tips and techniques to help smooth the process. Get your history organized before you leave . If you're spending the time and money to get to a far-flung destination, you don't want to spend your visit stuck in a library or office. It's more rewarding to get your history organized before you leave. "Start with what you know and build your tree online," says Ercanbrack. Sites like Ancestry.com, Familysearch.org and Genealogy.com can get you on the right track, while genealogy research site Cyndislist.com has a comprehensive collection of useful links. For example, Ancestry.com has 14 billion searchable, indexed records -- everything from passenger records to census data and more. "Remember, online records can build the branches, but there will be holes -- things you can't find because of records loss or privacy details," Ercanbrack adds. Beyond just building out a family tree skeleton online, it's also wise to create a historical timeline before your trip. A snapshot of the family's movements will help you see holes easier. For example, start with one family member -- say a grandparent -- and create a timeline of where and when they were born, where they lived, went to school, were married, and so forth. Writing things down in a narrative fashion can help you pinpoint gaps, like when a child might have been born or a family member emigrated. Let them know you're coming . Regardless if where in the world family history travel takes you, it helps to get in touch with a few locals before you arrive. People worth contacting include librarians, city clerks, museum officers and clergy. Giving information in advance helps a researcher flag potential documents and can maximize time on the ground while visiting. Prior to our Italy trip, my mother and I got in touch with the innkeeper at the one hotel in the village to inquire about an Italian-speaking guide to help us. Our host went above and beyond -- as it turns out his family had lived in the village for generations and knew all the people we needed to speak to. Because we sent information requests with family names and dates in advance, by the time we arrived he had already laid the groundwork and we had appointments with the priest and the city clerk's office. That allowed us to spend a good chunk of our time wandering the streets, taking in the ambiance and imagining how my great-grandmother's family lived. On-site research: Tombstones and immigration offices . Sure, you may have to spend time browsing through old boxes and files searching for documents, but there are countless of other places to find data while visiting a location. "Visiting the place is where you do the finishing touches," says Ercanbrack. Cemeteries: Local cemeteries often provide location-based details you won't find in other files such as place of death. They can also turn up details on previously unknown family members or even children that died as infants and were never recorded. Ercanbrack offers a great tip for getting details off a worn headstone: Shine a flashlight directly above the headstone to cast a shadow on engravings -- you can then take a picture of the shadow. It's far more effective than using the paper-rubbing-with-charcoal technique you see so often in the movies -- that can actually permanently damage the headstone. Immigration offices: Passport applications and naturalization records can be information goldmines, as they often include detailed information on family records, places of residence and work. Military/VA Offices: Military pension records also are crammed with data including dates and location of service, awards and recognition and time spent overseas. Note that these might be harder to access and there are privacy issues concerning release of some statistics, but worth investigating. By the end of our journey we discovered new details previously blank on the family tree. More importantly, we felt connected to a place that was previously just a spot on the map. As Alex Haley, author of "Roots," so eloquently put it: "In all of us there is a hunger, marrow-deep, to know our heritage -- to know who we are and where we have come from. Without this enriching knowledge, there is a hollow yearning." [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Interest in genealogy is rising, with many choosing to combine travel with family history research . Websites like Ancestry.com offer access to billions of indexed records . Librarians, city clerks, museum officers and clergy members can be solid sources of information . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Interest in genealogy is rising, with many choosing to combine travel with family history research . Websites like Ancestry.com offer access to billions of indexed records . Librarians, city clerks, museum officers and clergy members can be solid sources of information .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Hong Kong (CNN) -- A strong earthquake struck the southwestern Chinese province of Sichuan on Saturday, killing at least 179 people and injuring about 6,700 others in a region that suffered a catastrophic quake five years ago, the state-run Xinhua news agency reported Sunday. Thousands of emergency workers, including soldiers, rushed to reach the affected zones in the hilly region, and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang traveled to the area from Beijing, state media reported. Xu Mengjia, the Communist Party chief of Ya'an, the city that administers the area where the quake struck, told state broadcaster CCTV that because of landslides and disruption to communications, determining the total number of casualties may take some time. Students gather outside to escape the quake . The quake struck just after 8 a.m. local time Saturday, about 115 kilometers (70 miles) away from the provincial capital, Chengdu, at a depth of around 12 kilometers, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. There was conflicting information about the earthquake's strength, with the USGS putting the magnitude at 6.6 and the China Earthquake Networks Center gauging it at 7.0. It was followed by a series of aftershocks, some of them as strong as magnitude 5.1, the USGS said. Authorities have responded by sending rescue workers to the area around the epicenter, briefly halting flights at the airport in Chengdu and suspending high-speed rail operations, state media reported. The event stirred memories of the devastating earthquake that hit Sichuan in 2008, killing more than 87,000 people. First responders to Saturday's quake reported that the damage caused didn't appear to be as severe as what was seen in the aftermath of the 2008 disaster, according to CCTV. Fan Xiaodong, a student in Chengdu, said when the tremors began to shake buildings in the city, many of his startled classmates rushed out of their dorms, some of them wearing only the clothes they'd been sleeping in. At first, Fan said, he only felt a slight trembling as he dozed in bed. "I thought it was my roommates shaking the bed," he said. "But the shock became stronger soon, and it came to me that an earthquake happened." The epicenter was in Lushan country, a district of Ya'an. That area is home to China's famous giant pandas and houses the country's biggest panda research center. CCTV reported that the pandas at the facility, which is about 40 kilometers (about 25 miles) from the epicenter, were safe. Residents of Chongqing, a sprawling metropolis more than 300 kilometers (about 190 miles) from Ya'an, said the quake also shook buildings there. Are you there? Send your iReports . CNN's Jethro Mullen reported and wrote from Hong Kong, and Steven Jiang reported from Beijing. CNN's Feng Ke in Beijing and Henry Hanks in Atlanta contributed to this report. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] NEW: The death toll rises to at least 179, authorities say . About 6,700 people are reported to have been injured . Chinese Premier Li Keqiang travels to the area . The quake struck about 70 miles from the city of Chengdu in Sichuan . [/SUMMARY]</s>

NEW: The death toll rises to at least 179, authorities say . About 6,700 people are reported to have been injured . Chinese Premier Li Keqiang travels to the area . The quake struck about 70 miles from the city of Chengdu in Sichuan .

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<s>[ARTICLE] A Southern California teen fatally shot himself early Monday morning in front of his family after telling his cousins he was going to play Russian roulette, authorities say. The 17-year-old boy allegedly put the .38 Special revolver to his head and pulled the trigger while his cousins begged him 'not to do it,' Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputy Juanita Navarro-Suarez told the Los Angeles Times. In Russian roulette, a revolver is loaded with one bullet and participants take turns putting the gun to their heads and pulling the trigger. Russian roulette: Police responded around 4 a.m. Monday morning to reports of a shooting and found a 17-year-old boy bleeding from a single gunshot wound . NBC4 reports security guard Donald Gordon responded to reports from neighbors of screaming that lasted a minute, followed by a gunshot. 'He was on the ground, gasping for air, saying he really needs some help,' Gordon said, after he found the teenager bleeding on the ground. Police arrived around 4 a.m., after which the boy was transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead, according to the sheriff's department. The teenager reportedly lived with his older brother and sister-in-law at the Harbor Cove apartment complex in Torrance. 'They were pleading with him not to play with the gun, not to play Russian roulette,' said sheriff's department Sgt Scott Hoglund. 'The victim did not listen and proceeded to put the gun to his head and pull the trigger,' Hoglund added. Police say they recovered the gun from the scene and are trying to find whose name the gun is registered under. 'Additional information about the weapon is still under investigation,' the department said in a statement. Family members told NBC4 they did not know how the boy had gotten hold of a gun. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] The teenager pulled out a gun and announced to his cousins he was going to play Russian roulette in his room at an apartment complex in Torrance . The family begged him not to play, but he pulled the trigger, shooting himself once in the head . A security guard responding to reports of a gunshot said the bloodied teen was gasping for air and pleading for help . The boy was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced dead . [/SUMMARY]</s>

The teenager pulled out a gun and announced to his cousins he was going to play Russian roulette in his room at an apartment complex in Torrance . The family begged him not to play, but he pulled the trigger, shooting himself once in the head . A security guard responding to reports of a gunshot said the bloodied teen was gasping for air and pleading for help . The boy was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced dead .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Holland goalkeeper Tim Krul is ecstatic to be in the semi-finals of the World Cup after his dramatic introduction to the tournament. The Newcastle star came on late in extra-time and produced two saves in the penalty shoot-out victory against Costa Rica. 'Tonight I have realised a dream,' Krul told www.telegraaf.nl following the quarter-final win. 'What I've experienced is an incredible emotion. Spot on: Louis van Gaal congratulates Holland goalkeeper Tim Krul after his starring role . Hero: Tim Krul saved two penalties during Holland's shootout against Costa Rica . Bold: Louis van Gaal decided to bring Krul on towards the end of extra-time just for the penalties . '(Holland coach Louis) Van Gaal had warned me. It was something prepared and I knew that I would have this chance.' Van Gaal promised Cillessen - who, unlike Krul, was not told of the planned change for the shoot-out - that he remains his first choice for the semi-final. 'There is no question about who will start next game, it will be Cillessen,' he said. 'But we felt Krul was the better choice here. 'We told Krul that he would be a possibility for the penalties, but we didn't tell Cillessen, as we didn't want to ruin his preparation.' Jubilation: Holland will now face Argentina in the World Cup semi-finals . Brave: Dutch boss Van Gaal made the bold decision to take off No 1 goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen . The Oranje had numerous chances to win the game without the need for spot-kicks but were denied by the woodwork three times as well as by an inspired display from Costa Rica keeper Keylor Navas. Holland, runners-up four years ago in South Africa, take on Argentina in the last four on Wednesday in Sao Paulo. 'Now we have to think of Argentina,' Krul said. 'It will be a very difficult game.' Navas lamented his team's elimination from the World Cup but believes they have done their nation proud. Los Ticos had never reached the quarter-final stages of the competition and had gone unbeaten in Brazil before losing 4-3 on penalties in Salvador. 'We lost everything in a penalty shoot-out and we go home sad but with our heads held high,' Navas said to Costa Rica newspaper CRhoy.com. 'It's hard but this is life.' Bryan Ruiz and Michael Umana saw their spot-kicks saved by Krul while the Dutch converted all of their attempts. 'We cannot blame anyone because to be there at that time is not easy,' Navas said. 'Our rivals did their job in the penalty shoot -out and we didn't.' [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Tim Krul came on in extra-time in preparation for Holland's penalty shootout against Costa Rica . Dutch goalkeeper saved two of his five penalties to help put Holland through to semi-finals . Holland boss Louis van Gaal made bold choice to take off No 1 goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Tim Krul came on in extra-time in preparation for Holland's penalty shootout against Costa Rica . Dutch goalkeeper saved two of his five penalties to help put Holland through to semi-finals . Holland boss Louis van Gaal made bold choice to take off No 1 goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen .

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<s>[ARTICLE] U.S. military efforts to construct treatment facilities, set up more labs, conduct testing and training in Africa to deal with the Ebola crisis are expected to cost $750 million over six months, the Army general who commands U.S. troops in Africa said on Tuesday. General David Rodriguez said the U.S. has been asked to set up four more testing labs, in addition to the three already there. He said three or four highly trained U.S. troops work in each of the labs. The U.S. troops in the labs are testing specimens drawn by local hospitals and health care workers in order to help determine whether patients have the deadly Ebola virus. The troops do not come in contact with the actual sick patients, but handle only the samples. Scroll down for video . An Ebola inhumation team carry the body of a recent Ebola victim to be buried on Tuesday in Magbonkoh, Sierra Leone. Some 4,000 military personnel are being deployed to Africa to help deal with the crisis . Commander of U.S. Africa Command General David Rodriguez speaks during a news briefing on the Department of Defense's response on Ebola today . Asked whether the military response to the crises has been slow, Rodriguez said one of the challenges has been the ability of Liberia to absorb the influx of people and infrastructure changes. 'Their whole nation is overwhelmed. Their health facilities are overwhelmed,' said Rodriguez, head of U.S. Africa Command. 'Their infrastructure and their capacity to house people, to feed people and all that is limited. So it's all going to have to come in, in a very, very carefully orchestrated — based on the demand out at the front.' He added that U.S. officials 'don't want to overwhelm them and press things in there that cannot — they can't absorb at all.' The U.S. has authorized the deployment of up to 4,000 U.S. forces to help deal with the crisis, and Rodriguez said he doesn't expect to need more than that, but didn't rule out expanding the effort. He also said he is confident that the troops will be sufficiently trained and equipped with protective garments in order to avoid getting infected. The troops are providing logistics, training, diagnostic labs and engineering support as part of a broader U.S. effort. In particular, he said the troops staffing the labs are highly trained in biological, chemical and nuclear warfare and will be monitored and tested continually. He said the testing is critical now as officials try to differentiate between people who have the Ebola virus or those that may have the flu or malaria. Women suspected to be infected by Ebola are pictured in a hospital, on October 6 in Foredugu, Sierra Leone. Ebola may only be present in a few African nations, but fears over the crippling outbreak are infecting economies across the continent and may put its envy-inducing growth prospects at risk . He said the U.S. has enough protective equipment for the troops being sent in. Forces from the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, are preparing to go to Africa. Rodriguez said troops will be living at defense ministry facilities or in tent cities with their own food and water. 'When you go in one of these Ebola treatment units, you're going to wash your hands and feet multiple times. You're going to get your temperature taken in and out. And then there is a checklist of things to ask each personnel based on the — the virus or any other sickness, quite frankly, that could be coming up,' Rodriguez said. The military expects to finish the construction of 17 treatment centers by mid-November, but Rodriguez said troops could be in the region for as long as a year, based on how long it takes for the transmission of the virus to begin to decline. 'We're going to stay as long as we're needed, but not longer than we're needed,' he said. Ebola has claimed close to 3,500 lives in West Africa since the outbreak began last year. Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone are the hardest-hit countries. The 101st Airborne Division (pictured here in Afghanistan in 2013) are preparing to go to West Africa to assist in the Ebola crisis . President Obama said on Monday that some foreign countries are not doing enough to confront the Ebola crisis in West Africa. He says the international community has not been as aggressive as it needs to be to help contain what he's calling a top national security issue for the United States. Obama says he intends to put pressure on other foreign heads of state to 'make sure that they are doing everything that they can to join us in this effort'. He said the chances for an Ebola outbreak in the United States are low, but he says his administration is working on additional screening protocols for international airline passengers both in the U.S. and overseas. US officials have refused to close US borders to travelers from Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea - the three countries where Ebola continues to spread like wildfire. On Friday, Centers for Disease Control director Thomas Frieden said closing to borders to West Africans would only make the Ebola outbreak worse by cutting off the supply of aide and strangling the local economies. No U.S. airlines fly to Liberia, Sierra Leone or Guinea, but Brussels Airlines and other European carriers are still offering service from the West African capitals. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] General David Rodriguez  said a very small number of highly-trained troops are testing people for Ebola . Approximately 4,000 U.S. military personnel deploying to Africa to help with the Ebola crisis . The troops are providing logistics, training, diagnostic labs and engineering support . [/SUMMARY]</s>

General David Rodriguez  said a very small number of highly-trained troops are testing people for Ebola . Approximately 4,000 U.S. military personnel deploying to Africa to help with the Ebola crisis . The troops are providing logistics, training, diagnostic labs and engineering support .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Harriet Arkell . PUBLISHED: . 07:52 EST, 20 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 09:21 EST, 20 January 2014 . Nigel Phillips, 58, faces being struck off after stuffing paper towels into an elderly dementia patient's mouth at a Bupa care home in Hartlepool . A head nurse who stuffed paper towels into a dementia sufferer’s mouth to make her 'shut up' faces being struck off for life. Nigel Phillips, 58, of Stockton-on-Tees, also bent the elderly woman's fingers back as he treated cuts on her hands at the Bupa care home in Hartlepool, County Durham where he was head of mental nursing. Phillips, who accepted a police caution after admitting carrying out the attack on November 27 last year, said in his defence that he was 'stressed' because of difficult family circumstances. He has now been suspended for 18 months on the grounds of 'public protection' pending an investigation by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) into the incident at the Brierton Lodge home. The 58-bed home charges up to £619 a week and caters for patients with physical disabilities, dementia, elderly patients and those with other mental health issues. A report by the NMC's Conduct and Competence Committee said: 'Mr Phillips was at the time a senior nurse with considerable experience who should have been able to be relied upon to provide proper care to vulnerable patients.' It says: 'It is alleged that while tending to cuts on the fingers of a vulnerable female, elderly resident with dementia, Mr Phillips bent her fingers back and forcefully squeezed her hand, shouted in her face to "Shut up", and stuffed paper towel in her mouth. 'Mr Phillips indicated that he recalled shouting but not what he said or that he had shouted in the resident's face.  He acknowledged stuffing the paper towel in the resident's mouth. 'He indicated he had been stressed at the time due to difficult family circumstances.' The case is currently being investigated and Phillips, who did not attend an initial NMC hearing into the case last month, could face being barred from practising as a nurse again if the allegations against him are upheld. Care home: Nigel Phillips was head of mental health nursing at the Brierton Lodge care home at the time . Vulnerable: The 58-bed care home charges up to £619 per week to look after patients with dementia, physical disabilities and other medical issues . Bupa's website says Brierton Lodge offers 'nursing care for long or short stays, including convalescence, care for people with Parkinson’s disease and for those with dementia. 'The team here also have a great deal of expertise and are highly trained to deliver excellent palliative care.' The home, which opened in 1995, offers a hairdressing salon, shop and multi-sensory room, and residents have access to speech therapy, occupational therapy, chiropody, physiotherapy and aromatherapy. A Bupa spokesman for the home said: 'Our residents’ well being is our number one priority. We acted immediately, removed the nurse from the home and reported him to the relevant authorities.' [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Nigel Phillips attacked vulnerable female at a Bupa care home in Hartlepool . He shouted at her and bent her fingers back while dressing cuts on hands . The 58-year-old was head of mental nursing at the Brierton Lodge home . He admitted it and told police he was 'stressed' by 'family circumstances' Phillips, of Stockton-on-Tees, accepted a police caution over the attack . He is now suspended while the Nursing and Midwifery Council investigates . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Nigel Phillips attacked vulnerable female at a Bupa care home in Hartlepool . He shouted at her and bent her fingers back while dressing cuts on hands . The 58-year-old was head of mental nursing at the Brierton Lodge home . He admitted it and told police he was 'stressed' by 'family circumstances' Phillips, of Stockton-on-Tees, accepted a police caution over the attack . He is now suspended while the Nursing and Midwifery Council investigates .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Steve Nolan . PUBLISHED: . 14:18 EST, 2 January 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 15:31 EST, 2 January 2013 . He may be the infamous founder of Italian fascism who allied with Adolf Hitler, tore up democracy and introduced a string of anti-Semitic laws to Italy. But it seems former dictator Benito Mussolini is still lauded in the country almost 70 years after he was shot, strung up by piano wire and his body spat upon by passers by. Many Italians are marking the dawn of a new year by adorning their walls with calendars featuring pictures of Il Duce. Resurgence: Former Italian dictator Benito Mussolini, pictured left in 1940, is still lauded by many with sales of calendars featuring his image said to be selling in higher numbers than a decade ago . And while calendars featuring Mussolini are nothing new - they go on sale alongside ones featuring sports stars and animals every year - worryingly sales are on the up according to one of the firms that makes them, with many young Italians starting to idolise the dictator once again. Renato Circi, head of Rome printer Gamma 3000, told The Guardian that his company are selling more Mussolini calendars than they were a decade ago. He said: 'I didn't think it was still a phenomenon, but young people are buying them now too.' The re-emergence of Mussolini ideology seems to have made something of a resurgence in Italy. Fascism has long left its mark on the country, with groups of so-called Ultras sporting extreme views that hark back to 1920s Italy taking to the nation's football terraces for several decades. But the cult-figure appears to have slipped back into mainstream public consciousness. He is venerated by neo-fascist youths who stormed Rome high schools back in October clutching neo-fascist flags and launching smoke bombs into classrooms while lessons were going on. Popular: Calendars of the Italian dictator are nothing new - pictured are calendars from this year and last - but sales are said to be on the increase by manufacturer Gamma 3000 . The capital has been rocked by an increase in extreme right militancy since the autumn with neo-fascist youth group Blocco Studentesco holding weekly demonstrations in Rome that have often ended in violent clashes with police. And in November, an attack on Tottenham Hotspur fans, who had travelled to Rome for a Europa League match against Serie A giants Lazio, was linked to neo-facist fans. A 25-year-old Spurs fan, Ashley Mills, was stabbed in that incident. Earlier in 2012, a village south of Rome paid tribute to Field Marshal Rodolfo Graziani by splashing out £100,000 on a statue of the infamous general. A leading businessman also mooted the idea of renaming Forli airport in northern Italy as Mussolini Airport. Idolised: Fascist ideology has been adopted by extreme football fans known as Ultras for decades, but Mussolini's views seem to be re-emerging in mainstream consciousness . Not only is the re-emergence of fascist ideas attributed partly to Silvio Berlusconi who brought post-fascist conservatives into his coalition government in 1994 and 2001. But while Germany sought to distance itself from Fascism following the fall of the Nazis in 1945, Italy has never fully endorsed powers that outlaw the existence of fascist parties drawn up in 1952. Partly because it posed a risk to the italian constitution and partly because of a 'sneaking admiration' for fascist ideology, according to James Walston, politics professor at the American University of Rome. His resurgence as an idol among some Italians is also said to be the result of the recession, which has hit Italy particularly hard. The country is in the grip of its fourth recession in a decade and its economy has barely grown in that period. Italy's national debt is among the largest in Europe. And it is thought that many young Italians are increasingly looking to right wing groups and ideologies in the hope that a strong leader may emerge and improve the nation's fortunes. Of course Italy was in financial dire straits following the First World War and Mussolini's economic fascism saw the economy grow more than 20 per cent in four years at the start of the 1920s and unemployment fall by almost 80 per cent. Italian neo-fascist group CasaPound's vice-president Simone di Stefano told The Guardian: 'Whoever buys the (Mussolini) calendar admires his work - the two things cannot be separated. 'There is a need today for his politics, for someone who will put the banks and finance at the service of italy.' Benito Mussolini pictured giving a fascist salute . Benito Amilcare Andrea Mussolini was born in Predappio, northern central Italy, in July 1883. The son of a blacksmith, he moved to Switzerland in 1902 because jobs were scarce in his home region and became involved with socialist politics there. He moved back to Italy two years later and began work as a journalist on socialist papers. Mussolini later broke from socialist ideologies when Italy decided to enter World War One and he was enlisted in the army in 1915. He formed the Fascist Party following the war in 1919 and capitalised on the support of unemployed veterans organising supporters into squads known as the Black Shirts who terrorised anyone who disagreed with their politics. As Italy fell into political chaos in the autumn of 1922, Mussolini's Black Shirts marched on Rome and he was invited to form a government. He made himself dictator in 1925 and gave himself the nickname Il Duce, setting about re-establishing Italy as a major European power. Mussolini supported General Franco in the Spanish Civil War and became involved in an increasingly strong alliance with Adolf Hitler's Germany. His declaration of war on Britain and France in June 1940 exposed Italian military weakness and was followed by a series of defeats in North and East Africa and the Balkans. In July 1943, Allied troops landed in Sicily. Mussolini was overthrown and imprisoned by his former colleagues in the Fascist government. In September, Italy signed an armistice with the Allies. The German army began the occupation of Italy and Mussolini was rescued by German commandos. He was installed as the leader of a new government, but had little power. He was eventually killed in April 1945 by partisan Italians as the Allies moved north through Italy. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Calendar sales have increased over the past decade . A surge in support for neo-fascism in Italy is blamed on the recession . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Calendar sales have increased over the past decade . A surge in support for neo-fascism in Italy is blamed on the recession .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Francesca Infante . PUBLISHED: . 15:01 EST, 28 October 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 15:01 EST, 28 October 2013 . Christopher Symons, 63, was jailed today for murdering his business partner Patricia Goodband, 76, and throwing her down a brick shaft to try to get a 1m inheritance . A policeman's father was jailed for 27 years today for brutally murdering a millionairess with a wrench before dumping her battered body in a disused 12ft well and covering it with soil from a cemetery. Christopher Symons battered wealthy 76-year-old Patricia Goodband to death and then devised a grand plan he dubbed, 'The 12 days of Xmas', in an attempt to inherit her fortune. In a scrawled note the 63-year-old listed daily tasks to try to cover up the grandmother-of-two's murder and throw detectives off the scent. The incriminating list was found in his car by detectives searching for clues over Mrs Goodband's murder and it was used as a vital piece of evidence in the case against him. Amazingly Symons' own son Ben works as a Police Constable for Thames Valley Police - the same force investigating the death. Symons mapped out his detailed plan and enlisted the help of his elderly lover and a grave digger friend to cover his tracks. Today he showed no emotion when he was told he would probably die in prison as he will serve a minimum term of 27 years meaning he would be aged 90 years before there was a chance of parole. Sentencing him at Reading Crown Court Judge Zoe Smith told Symons: 'This was a murder where the particulars of the offence were particularly high.' Describing further the particulars of the killing which involved a heavy wrench, she said: 'The substantial planning. The concealment of the body. The false trail after her murder. 'The deceit employed to convince Mrs Goodband's daughter that her mother was missing and the recruitment of others to sure up your cover story. 'I find that the purpose of the murder was to ensure that your entitlement to her savings and house remained intact.' Cunning: Detailed plans to murder Patricia Goodband and then detract police investigations away from him were found in Symons' car . Betrayed: Patricia Goodland was brutally murdered by her friend and business partner Christopher Symons just before Christmas last year . Symons' manipulated lover Jennifer Creasey, aged 73 years, was convicted of perverting the course of justice after making a false statement to police in a bid to protect him . She was sentenced to six months in jail. His accomplice, Robert Taft, 60, previously admitted to misleading police by claiming he had dropped Mrs Goodband off at a railway station and a separate charge of possession of ammunition without a licence. Police found 22 calibre bullets in a jacket pocket which Taft claimed Symons had given him. He too was jailed, but for only 10 months. Mrs Goodband, who ran a haulage business with Symons, was last seen alive three days before Christmas on Decmber 22 last year. The three-week trial had heard that Mrs Goodband was reported missing by her daughter Samantha McLoughlin, who lives in North Yorkshire, on January 9. Symons sent himself a series of texts from Mrs Goodband's phone in a bid to mislead police. He also got lover Creasey to write a fake Christmas card to Mrs Goodband and enlisted Taft’s help in fabricating the story that the divorcee had decided to travel north for the Christmas period. Following a painstaking investigation Mrs Goodband's body was found concealed in the deep well shaft in the garden of her home in the rural village of Woodham, near Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire on January 21 this year. She had been repeatedly beaten around the head before her body was thrown into the well. Symons, from Aylesbury, was found guilty of a single charge of murder by a jury after just over four hours of deliberations. Creasey, from Benson, Oxfordshire, was found guilty of one count of perverting the course of justice and Taft, also from Aylesbury, admitted the same charge. Without emotion: Christopher Symons pictured during interviews with police was impassive today in court as he was told he would most likely die in jail . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Christopher Symons, 63, from Aylesbury, beat Patricia Goodband to death with a wrench before throwing her body in a well . He then devised a plan which he called: 'The 12 days of Xmas' to cover up the crime and claim a £1million inheritance . Today he was jailed for 27 years and will be 90 before he can apply for parole . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Christopher Symons, 63, from Aylesbury, beat Patricia Goodband to death with a wrench before throwing her body in a well . He then devised a plan which he called: 'The 12 days of Xmas' to cover up the crime and claim a £1million inheritance . Today he was jailed for 27 years and will be 90 before he can apply for parole .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Daniel Mills for Daily Mail Australia . A 27-year-old champion netball player, who was due to marry her beloved fiance later this year, has died after suffering a fatal heart attack during a match. Beth Leske, who excelled in the sport from a young age, died while playing a club match on Saturday when she suddenly collapsed on the courts at Fred Finch Park at Berkeley, near Wollongong. Leaving behind soon-to-be wed fiance Chris Hendry and a young son, Tarne, Illawarra Districts Netball Association president Dianne Elvy told Daily Mail Australia Beth's family was 'shocked and saddened' by her sudden death. Ms Leske also left behind a young son, Tarne, when she died from a heart attack on the netball court on Saturday . Two off-duty paramedics rushed to her side to perform CPR about 2pm, before she was rushed to a Wollongong hospital where she later died. Ms Elvy told Daily Mail Australia the bride-to-be was a 'valued member' of Illawarra netball. 'Beth was a valued member of the association who played for her club for a few years,' she said. She said her understanding of the incident was that it 'all happened very quickly.' 'I think it all happened very quickly, but as far as details regarding how I couldn't say exactly because I wasn't there.' She said the family, including the man she was due to marry later this year and her young son, are in shock. 'They are sad, upset and they are all grieving for Beth.' Beth Leske and her husband-to-be Chris Hendry where due to marry later this year . Friends and family of the 'amazing couple' took to her fiance's Facebook page with messages of support following her tragic death. 'Deeply sad and so sorry for your loss Chris, I love Beth, she is so easy to love, she will always be in my heart, thinking of u bro and my lil mate Tarne, take care of yourselves, love you,' Lee Karayiannis wrote. Another described their shock and disbelief at the situation. 'Can't believe it mate. Stay strong and shout out to any of ya mates if ay need em. We're all here to help!' As a high school student Beth was a champion netballer representing the sport at various levels. She was a former Illawarra Sports High School student and an Illawarra representative junior basketball player during her teen years. In 2000 she competed in the national championships with the Illawarra under 14 girls basketball team representing NSW Country. It is unknown what exactly caused her death or whether she had a pre-existing medical condition. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Beth Leske, 27, died in hospital after she collapsed on the netball court . She had been playing in a match for the Fairy Meadow Netball Club . She leaves behind a young son and a soon-to-be-married fiance . Her district netball president Dianne Elvy said Beth was a valued player . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Beth Leske, 27, died in hospital after she collapsed on the netball court . She had been playing in a match for the Fairy Meadow Netball Club . She leaves behind a young son and a soon-to-be-married fiance . Her district netball president Dianne Elvy said Beth was a valued player .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Katy Winter for MailOnline . An unfit, overweight lorry driver has shed over 6st to become to complete a gruelling contest involving a two-and-a-half mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride followed by a full 26-mile marathon. And, to top it off, the former lonely heart has even found himself a fiancee. Steve Griffiths proposed to his girlfriend Jenny on the finishing line of the Ironman UK event which took place in Bolton. The 50-year-old, from Handsacre, near Rugeley, got down on one knee after completing the marathon endurance and fitness test in 14 hours 22 minutes. Steve Griffiths with his Fiancee Jenny Thomas who he proposed to on the finishing line of an Ironman UK event . As a lorry driver Steve led a sedentary lifestyle and ate junk food for convenience on the road . The two now plan to marry in New York on July 20 next year - exactly a year after his proposal at the end of his Ironman UK challenge. Yet just four years before, Steve, a lorry driver, weighed over 20st and rarely exercised. Now he weighs a trim 13st 8lb. He said: 'It was a fantastic moment. I planned to ask her to marry me if I completed the Iroman UK challenge. It was just the perfect moment to do it. 'I have been on quite a journey for the last four years and this was the climax. I was also turning 50 and I thought it was the right time to ask Jenny to marry me. Fortunately she said yes' Steve, who has been going out with Jenny, aged 44, since March 2012, decided to transform his life after lack of fitness was starkly illustrated one one day while he was coaching a girls' football team. Steve completed the Iron Man challenge, which involved Involved a two-and-a-half mile swim, 112 mile bike ride and a full 26-mile marathon, in 14 hours 22 minutes . He said: 'I was leading a pretty lazy lifestyle. I was a lorry driver who was wolfing down bacon sandwiches and fried breakfasts every day and doing very little exercise. 'I was coaching a young girls' local football team and one day I was shown up for being so unfit during the coaching session. I realised I had to do something about my weight. 'I started cycling and going to the gym and the weight started dropping off me. I lost 4st in the first four months. Steve and Jenny now plan to marry in New York on July 20 next year - exactly a year after his proposal . 'I ditched the fried breakfasts and fatty foods for cereal and for healthy options such as pasta and fish. Now I feel great.' Steve also decided to turn his new love of exercise and healthy living into a career and trained to be a fitness instructor. He now works at Cannock Chase Leisure Centre. During his four-year transformation he kept diaries and is now trying to get them published. He added: 'I would love to inspire people who were in a similar position to me to achieve their goals and transform their lives.' [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Steve led a sedentary lifestyle and lived off junk food . Decided to get fit and eventually trained for an Iron Man competition . Involved a two-and-a-half mile swim, 112-mile ride and 26-mile marathon . Proposed to his girlfriend of one year, Jenny, on the Iron Man finish line . Has now trained to be a fitness instructor . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Steve led a sedentary lifestyle and lived off junk food . Decided to get fit and eventually trained for an Iron Man competition . Involved a two-and-a-half mile swim, 112-mile ride and 26-mile marathon . Proposed to his girlfriend of one year, Jenny, on the Iron Man finish line . Has now trained to be a fitness instructor .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Daisy Coleman became suicidal after she was allegedly raped at age 14, then tormented by cyber bullies, her mother says . A mother says she was driven from a rural Missouri town and her home mysteriously burned down after her 14-year-old daughter accused a popular football player of rape. High school freshman Daisy Coleman was subjected to constant cyber-bullying from classmates - and even parents - in Maryville, Missouri, after she reported in January 2012 that she had been raped. She told police the 17-year-old boy invited her to a party where she became so intoxicated she couldn't stand and then had sex with her while a friend filmed the incident on an iPhone. She told CNN's 'Erin Burnett OutFront' that she and her friend had been drinking and went to his house, where they 'snuck in through his basement window. 'He gave me a big glass of a clear liquid. And that's all I remember,' the teenager said yesterday on CNN. The athlete and his friends then allegedly dumped Daisy on her front porch, where she passed out - with no shoes or socks and no coat - in 22-degree weather. When her mother found her several hours later, Daisy's hair was frozen and she had frostbite on her hands and feet. 'There was frost on the ground,' Daisy's mother Melinda Coleman told CNN. 'It wasn't until I undressed her to put her in a warm tub that I realised that maybe she had been sexually assaulted. So I asked her if she was hurting, and she said yes, and started to cry,' she said. The Kansas City Star reports . that Mrs Coleman, a veterinarian, lost her job as a . result of the police report her daughter filed. Mrs Coleman says her . three sons - Daisy's brothers - were threatened at school and booed on . the field - often by boys they had counted as their friends just weeks . earlier. The charred remains of the fire-damaged home of Melinda Coleman and her children in October. The cause of the fire could not be determined . Accusations: Daisy, pictured left with her brother, told police that she became so drunk she couldn't remember anything at a party thrown by several older high school boys . She said she had no . choice but leave. Town officials and many residents had made it clear . that she was no longer welcome in the town of 12,000, she said. 'Basically . I was terrified, I wanted to protect my children, I wanted to get them . out of there,' she told MailOnline, agreeing that her family's names and photographs be used to highlight their case. In April, eight months after she left town, Mrs Coleman's house in Maryville - which she was trying to sell - burned down. Fire investigators have ruled the cause 'undetermined,' but Mrs Coleman told MailOnline that she suspects the blaze could be arson - connected with town residents who were furious over her daughter's rape allegations. 'On one hand, it would almost be a comfort to think it was an electrical problem that caused the fire, but on the other other hand, there’s a part of me that really thinks that the fire could be part of all this,' Mrs Coleman said. 'They threatened me. I’d been threatened and my daughter had been threatened and I lost my job because of threats.' Daisy, seen here with her three brothers, was threatened by residents of Maryville after the charges against a popular football player went public. Her brothers were threatened and harassed, as well . Melinda Coleman, Daisy's mother, said she feared for her family's safety after she and her children received threats . Mrs Coleman says she moved her family to . Maryville after her husband, a doctor, died in a car crash in 2006. She . was hoping for a fresh start for herself and for her children. Sheriff's deputies arrested two teens within hours and charged them with felonies. A few weeks later, the prosecutor, Robert Rice, dropped the rape charges - citing insufficient evidence. Mrs Coleman told MailOnline the torrents of hatred came only days after the case went public. The backlash on social media was . vitriolic. Classmates said the Daisy had been 'asking for it' at the party. A girl showed . up to one of the teen girl's dance recitals with a shirt alluding to . the alleged rape. When the charges against her alleged rapist were dismissed, one local . student wrote to the teen on Twitter, saying, 'F*** yea. That’s what you . get for bein a skank : )'. One of Daisy's brothers was booed at his final wrestling match of the . year. Mrs Coleman says a friend warned her that students were planning . to beat up her sons in the parking lot of the high school over the . incident. Mrs . Coleman lost her job at the local veterinary clinic. She . says her boss admitted that she was fired because the case had become . too contentious. Veterinarian . Sally Hayse told the Star: 'This is a small community, and it . definitely was stressful for us here, without a doubt. The entrance of Maryville High School - High school freshman Daisy Coleman was subjected to constant bullying from classmates - and even parents - in Maryville, Missouri, after she reported she had been raped in January 2012 . Life at Maryville High School became difficult for the four Coleman children after numerous former friends lashed out over the sex assault report . Maryville is a tight-knit town of 12,000 in rural northern Missouri . But, she said, 'If you were to ask me point-blank (why Mrs Coleman was fired), I would say it’s because our style of medicine didn’t jive.' Mrs Coleman said her daughter suffered heavily - both from the alleged assault and from the online abuse. She tried to kill herself twice, including once when her brother found her in the bathroom and took her to the hospital. 'She had a really hard time. She went through a period, a really dark time. She did the self-mutilation and the anger,' Mrs Coleman told MailOnline. 'So much of being told it was her fault ... it really does seem like it’s your fault when people keep saying it over and over again.' But, Daisy, now 16, is recovering, her mother says. After intensive therapy, she is beginning to move past the trauma of the alleged attack. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Melinda Coleman says she and her family had to leave Maryville, Missouri, after intense backlash when her daughter said she was raped at a party . Daisy Coleman was left intoxicated on her porch in 22-degree weather with no shoes or socks; when her mother found her she had frostbite . A friend of the athlete allegedly involved is accused of recording the sexual encounter on video . Both teens were ultimately cleared when a prosecutor dismissed all the charges, saying there was not enough evidence . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Melinda Coleman says she and her family had to leave Maryville, Missouri, after intense backlash when her daughter said she was raped at a party . Daisy Coleman was left intoxicated on her porch in 22-degree weather with no shoes or socks; when her mother found her she had frostbite . A friend of the athlete allegedly involved is accused of recording the sexual encounter on video . Both teens were ultimately cleared when a prosecutor dismissed all the charges, saying there was not enough evidence .

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<s>[ARTICLE] For the fifth year straight, Washington ranked as the country's most bicycle-friendly state, thanks to policies designed to create alternatives to driving, according to the League of American Bicyclists. The advocacy group's Bicycle Friendly State Program ranks the states each year under a series of criteria, from laws and regulations that govern bicycling to policies for accommodating cyclists and infrastructure funding. In each of the top five states -- Washington, Minnesota, Massachusetts, Colorado and Oregon -- the focus of the respective Departments of Transportation is not only on highways but on accommodating pedestrians, cyclists and transportation on ferries and trains, said Matt Wempe, the league's state and local advocacy coordinator. Arkansas, considered one of the least safe places for cyclists based on fatalities, was at the bottom of the list. The league's top recommendation was to adopt a statewide bicycle plan and to establish an advisory committee to oversee its implementation. Washington is considered a model for all other states on using federal funds for bicycle and pedestrian projects. It also earned points for adopting a safe passing and vulnerable road user law, which carries enhanced penalties for motorists who severely injure or kill a cyclist or pedestrian, Wempe said. It also creates a minimum 3-foot "safe passing" distance for cyclists by motorists. Related: Drivers and cyclists square off on sharing the road to work . The state also has a "complete streets" policy, which means new roads must be designed with cyclists and pedestrians in mind, Wempe said. "Every state says bicycles are treated the same as vehicles, but that needs to be clarified," he said. "We're stressing that bicycles have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles, but their needs in terms of infrastructure need to be clarified." Minnesota, which claimed the No. 2 spot, also has a complete streets policy. The state also earned kudos for its bike-sharing program and plans to expand bike trails along the Mississippi River. Colorado cracked the top 10 for the first time with qualities that make it a model for other states in terms of traffic laws, Wempe said. It has a safe passing law and a Share the Road Campaign; cyclists are allowed to ride side-by-side. It also has bicycle commuter share of more than 1%, more than double the national average. "We are encouraged to see significant progress in top states like Washington, Minnesota, Colorado and Massachusetts," Andy Clarke, president of the League of American Bicyclists, said in a statement. "But, as the scores clearly highlight, there's much work to be done in critical areas like infrastructure and funding. Overall, we see states -- and especially state Departments of Transportation and state legislatures -- lagging behind cities and the expectations of local cyclists, despite the many well documented benefits of a more active lifestyle." [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] For the fifth year straight, Washington ranks as country's most bicycle-friendly state . Washington passed law carrying penalties for motorists who injure or kill cyclists . Minnesota takes no. 2 spot for bike-sharing program, plans to expand bike trails . Arkansas takes last place . [/SUMMARY]</s>

For the fifth year straight, Washington ranks as country's most bicycle-friendly state . Washington passed law carrying penalties for motorists who injure or kill cyclists . Minnesota takes no. 2 spot for bike-sharing program, plans to expand bike trails . Arkansas takes last place .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Jaya Narain . With travel firms jacking up prices during school holidays, many parents have been tempted to take their children abroad in term time instead. The education authorities frown on such behaviour. But now one school governor has broken ranks. Paul Lawton ignored anti-truanting laws to take his 13-year old daughter Lucie-Ann out of school for 11 days so they could enjoy a fortnight in Spain. Sunshine: School governor Paul Lawton (left) has been fined for failing to ensure his child attended school after taking her on a family holiday in term time . Siesta: Mr Lawton enjoys a nap on holiday in Costa Del Sol . Paul Lawton, pictured in his garden, was ordered to pay the fine plus £70 costs . Some parents at the Macclesfield Academy in Cheshire, where Mr Lawton sits on the governing body, were outraged . Other parents have accused him of . setting a bad example but Mr Lawton, a farmer, said he was too busy with . work in the summer months, and had also wanted his daughter to visit . her godfather, who has cancer. The father of five added that he had saved £5,000 on the break on the Costa del Sol by going during term time. Mr . Lawton, 42, said: ‘To go when we did cost us £1,200 to fly the whole . family of seven to Spain with flights and transfers. The local authority issues a penalty notice to parents who fail to ensure their kids attend school. It equates to £60 per child, rising to £120 if it's not paid within 21 days. After 28 days, if the fine remains unpaid, the local authority is required to begin legal proceedings in a magistrate's court. Parents are prosecuted under Section 444 of the 1996 Education Act. 'If we had gone . three weeks later it would have been £6,000 and we can’t afford that. ‘I . think the Government should stop this ridiculous rip-off. 'Some people . aren’t fortunate enough to be able to spend £5,000 to go away for two . weeks. ‘When I see the prices before and after the school holidays, I’m annoyed. It makes it impossible to go and explore Europe.’ But . some parents at the 800-pupil Macclesfield Academy in Cheshire, where . Mr Lawton is a governor, were outraged after holiday photos emerged of . the family at the resort. One . said: ‘Parents are constantly bleated at about taking their kids out of . school to go on holidays and he of all people should know about that. ‘Even . though we are left virtually broke due to the hike in holiday prices . during non-term time, most of us toe the line because we don’t want to . get into any trouble. What he’s done has made a mockery of the school.’ Fore: Lawton was pictured enjoying leisure activities like golf . Cooling off: Mr Lawton called himself a 'keen and conscientious parent' who is passionate about education . One parent angry at Mr Lawton's actions said he has 'thrown the rule book out of the window' Fined: Natasha and Stewart Sutherland pictured arriving at Telford Magistrates Court. They were fined £630 and ordered to pay £300 . Earlier this month a couple were hit with a £1,000 penalty for taking their three children out of school for a foreign holiday. Stewart and Natasha Sutherland fell foul of a new law allowing councils to fine parents who fail to ensure their children attend class. They returned home from the week-long break to Rhodes – their first family holiday in five years – to find they had been fined £360. This was soon doubled to £720 because they did not pay up quickly enough, as well as £300 costs and a £63 victim surcharge.Education Act, subsections one and eight. Speaking after the case, Mr Sutherland, who works for the Ministry of Defence Guard Service, said the week in question was the only one he and his wife could both take off work. ‘We had no choice but to plead guilty otherwise me and my wife could have been behind bars,’ added the 39-year-old. ‘Surely that would make our children’s education suffer more than a much-needed holiday? I can’t see the justice in it at all. When . Mr Lawton returned from Spain his own school requested that he and his . wife Emma, 33, be issued with a fixed penalty notice of £60 each by the . local education authority under anti-truanting laws. They . did not pay and were taken before magistrates where they both admitted a . charge of failing to ensure their child attended school and were each . fined £120 with £50 costs and £20 victim surcharge. Mr Lawton, who is a village hall committee representative on Gawsworth Parish Council, landed in hot water after jetting off to Spain towards the end of last year's summer term . Cheshire . East Council said the schoolgirl was absent without proper authority . over 11 morning and 11 afternoon sessions between July 9 and 22 last . year. Mr Lawton told the magistrates: ‘We went to see my foster father . who has cancer and whose health is only expected to deteriorate. 'We . could ill afford to go, but my daughter is his goddaughter and he wanted . to see her.’ But magistrate David Coulston told him: ‘As a governor, you should have known better of the protocols of the school.’ Yesterday . Mrs Lawton said the holiday had been their first since the couple’s . honeymoon in Egypt. Her husband said he believed he was being singled . out because he was a governor, adding: ‘When I booked the holiday I . wasn’t a governor. I didn’t come on board until May 2013 and booked the . holiday in 2012.’ Macclesfield . Academy headmaster Richard Hedge said fixed penalty notices were issued . by the council when pupils missed five days or more. He added: ‘We . would not make special allowance for a governor or for anybody else.’ George Wilson, chairman of governors, said a decision on any action would be made after a meeting next month. A survey for yesterday’s Daily Mail showed that some holidays will more than double in price during half-term next month. We . also reported the case of Paul Cookson, 41, from Devon, whose complaint . about the rising cost of a planned Center Parcs holiday with his . daughter, seven, was shared 143,000 times by other parents. Father-of-one Paul Cookson, 41, wrote an online tirade about price hikes during school holidays, which went viral . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Paul Lawton claims he cannot go away in summer because of work . He also argued he wanted his daughter to see his very ill foster father . He claims he saved £5,000 by booking the trip during term time . But parents are enraged that they have to 'toe the line' on holidays . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Paul Lawton claims he cannot go away in summer because of work . He also argued he wanted his daughter to see his very ill foster father . He claims he saved £5,000 by booking the trip during term time . But parents are enraged that they have to 'toe the line' on holidays .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Damien Gayle . PUBLISHED: . 10:24 EST, 17 May 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 08:01 EST, 18 May 2012 . A little girl with learning difficulties has been banned from her local Brownie group over 'health and safety concerns'. Kacey Godfrey, seven, was devastated after being told to hand back her uniform by Girlguiding bosses, who said there were not enough staff to cope with her. Her parents Donna, 36, and Simon, 38, now fear their daughter will lose touch with friends she met in the Rainbows, the Girlguiding group for five to seven-year-olds. Heartbroken: Little Kacey Godfrey gives the Girl Guide salute in her Brownies uniform. Her mother says the child has been left in tears by the ban . 'I think it’s cruel not to let her join just because they say they don’t have enough helpers to supervise her,' said Mrs Godfrey. 'She’s been in Rainbows for years and had no trouble. But after three weeks at Brownies they told us that she can’t be enrolled with all of her friends because of her learning disabilities. 'All it is, is that she struggles a bit with her alphabet and has a reading age two years behind other children her age. 'I think they don’t want to enrol her now as it will be harder to get rid of her later.' Kacey, from Billericay, Essex, joined 3rd Burstead Brownies – for girls aged from seven to ten – last month after her mother had informed the group leader of  her difficulties. 'Out of order': Kacey's mother Donna believes that her daughter's exclusion from Girl Guides is discrimination . But the family later received a call saying she could not attend future meetings. Mrs Godfrey said: 'I was getting Kacey ready for Brownies last week when I received a very abrupt phone call from Julie Nye [Girlguiding UK’s South East Essex County Commissioner]. She told me Kacey would not be allowed to come any more due to health and safety concerns and told me to return her uniform immediately.' The mother of four, whose husband is an area team leader for a home shopping business, added: 'Kacey still wants to go and doesn’t understand why they won’t let her be with her friends. 'They’ve told me they want to talk to the school about her learning disabilities but why does she have to be banned from meetings in the meantime?' She said: 'I wish I’d never told them about Kacey’s learning  difficulties now. 'They are making out she has been kicking people in the shins but Kacey would never do anything like that. 'We have never had a problem with Kacey before.' Girlguiding UK – formerly the Girl Guides Association – is the largest voluntary organisation for girls and young women in the UK, with more than 500,000 members. In its national pledge, leaders must ensure 'all reasonable steps for the inclusion of disabled girls, young women and adults into guiding  are taken'. Young members are also encouraged to train for a disability awareness badge. A Girlguiding UK spokesman said yesterday that the organisation was 'in discussion with Kacey’s family to resolve this situation', adding that the problem had been caused by a lack of information on Kacey ahead of her joining. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Banned from her local Brownie group over 'health and safety concerns' Her parents now fear their daughter will lose touch with her friends . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Banned from her local Brownie group over 'health and safety concerns' Her parents now fear their daughter will lose touch with her friends .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Anna Hodgekiss . PUBLISHED: . 11:11 EST, 10 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 13:26 EST, 10 December 2013 . Strong: John van Walwyk, who is still pumping iron at the grand age of 90, says spinach is his secret to staying young . A great-grandfather who is still pumping iron at the grand age of 90 says spinach is his secret to staying young. John van Walwyk, dubbed the real-life Popeye, lives in sheltered accommodation but walks two miles to the gym three times a week. He works through a hour-long routine of 14 different exercises, lifting weights up to 30kg and climbing 226 metres on the step machine. Mr van Walwyk, a vegetarian, says his strength comes from a diet of spinach and Guinness to get enough protein for his biceps. The . grandfather-of-two, who lives with wife Marjorie, 78, said: 'We live in . a sheltered complex and most of the people here are either using frames . or walking sticks. 'I think in some cases that's . because they do not exercise and if this encourages people to take up . exercise I think it's worth it. 'I lift weights that are far heavier than the young people lift. 'I'm a vegetarian and so my wife . feeds me spinach all the time. It's a great source of iron that people . who lift weights usually get from meat. 'I also drink Guinness, which is another great way of getting iron.' Mr van Walwyk will . celebrate his 90th birthday tomorrow and to celebrate, will give . himself a day off from the gym at Hills Road Sixth Form College in . Cambridge. Scroll down for video . Eating his greens: Mr van Walwyk, dubbed the real-life Popeye (right), says his strength comes from a diet of spinach and Guinness to get enough protein for his biceps . A father-of-two, he retired as a BT call handler in 1959 and joined the gym 14 years ago as he started putting on weight. He said: 'My weight went up to 15 and a half stone, but by exercising I got it down to 14 stone. Shoulder press3 x 8 reps at 32kg, 3 x 8 reps at 41.5kg, 3 x 8 partial reps at 44kg . Bench fly with dumbbells3 x 8 reps at 20kg in each hand . Front raise with dumbbells3 x 8 reps at 10kg in each hand . Romanian deadlift with dumbbells3 x 8 reps at 14kg in each hand . Zottman curls with dumbbells3 x 8 reps at 12.5kg in each hand . Hand dips on bench3 x 10 reps . Abdominal workout - 60 reps including sit ups and knee bends . Step machine - 12 minutes averaging a climb of about 226m, burning 128 calories. 'I'm now up to 14 and a half, but that extra half is all muscle.' His wife Marjorie, a retired BT admin assistant, said: 'The students sit and watch him and but I don't think they've got any idea how old he really is. 'I'm very proud of him. He is there three times a week. He is very fit and I'm very lucky.' Mr van Walwyk worked in a factory making ship parts for much of World War II before being called up at the age of 21 to fight in Burma with the Royal Berkshire Regiment in 1944. The gym has promised to give the great-grandfather-of-two free membership when he reaches the age of 100. Manager Natalie Moss said:'I've great admiration for John and certainly hope that I will be as active as he is when I reach 90 years of age. 'We try to ensure we keep the vending machine topped up with Yorkie bars as he tells me he and his wife allow themselves one piece a day as a treat.' [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] John van Walwyk walks two miles to the gym three times a week . Works through a hour-long routine of . 14 different exercises, lifting weights up to 30kg and climbing 226 . metres on the step machine . Vegetarian says his strength comes from a diet of spinach and Guinness . [/SUMMARY]</s>

John van Walwyk walks two miles to the gym three times a week . Works through a hour-long routine of . 14 different exercises, lifting weights up to 30kg and climbing 226 . metres on the step machine . Vegetarian says his strength comes from a diet of spinach and Guinness .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- Recently, Obama told Hollywood that America is not cool with itself. Speaking at the home of Walt Disney executive Alan Horn, he looked into the eyes of stars like Barbra Streisand and James Brolin and said that the country is full of "disquiet," that the future risks "more cynicism, more dysfunction," and that "we have a Washington that's not working." In the distance, a car alarm went off. The President quipped, "Sound the alarm, because we've got a problem." There was a lot of predictable gloom in those remarks, given the President's low approval rating, but also a surprising lack of self-awareness. If Obama has proved to be a disappointment then Hollywood is partly responsible for all the unrealistic ambitions that have surrounded him. And there's big irony in the fact that he is now seeking comfort from the very liberal elite that he once seemed to challenge. Back in the 2008 Democratic primaries, Hollywood was solid Clinton country; it only rallied to Obama after he snagged the nomination. After he won the White House, there were two years of mutual snub between L.A. and D.C. Not only did some moviemakers gripe that the President was a reluctant reformer (remember Matt Damon or Robert Redford or remind yourself of when Obama was still anti-gay marriage), but he rarely called people to say "thank you" for everything they've done for him. Hollywood might tolerate inaction, but it can't abide the absence of flattery. So how did Obama change his mind about Hollywood? The change occurred thanks to the rise of the tea party, which galvanized West Coast liberals, and the President's sudden conversion to the legalization of gay marriage, which happen to come at a time when local reports indicated that his Hollywood money was in danger of drying up. Almost overnight, Hollywood assumed a structural importance in his re-election campaign to rival that of organized labor, liberal PACs or even the DNC. Here's another irony: Hollywood benefited from the changes to campaign finance that many stars protested against. Citizens United allowed moviemakers to act as bundlers, buying them new levels of access and influence. This corresponded with a subtle change in the way that Obama was sold to the voter. In 2008, he was the outsider offering change (although the famous "Yes We Can" video was a 100% Hollywood product produced by Bob Dylan's son, Jesse). Come 2012, he now represented various faces of liberal authority -- many of them defined by Hollywood archetypes. For example, there was an experiment in reinventing Obama as Atticus Finch, the lawyer played by Gregory Peck in "To Kill a Mockingbird." Obama gave a televised introduction to the movie on the USA Network channel in 2012. Film critic Tom Shone noted that Obama wanted the viewer to imagine that he was "cut from exactly the same liberal oak as Peck's Atticus Finch (retrenching) Obama's status as the defender of the mainstream." Defender, too, of law and order. For the release of "The Dark Knight Rises," the White House publicized a photo of Obama and Biden with the tagline, "The Dynamic Duo," capitalizing upon the plotline of a caped crusader protecting an American city against a greedy villain who bore almost the same name to the company that Mitt Romney set up -- Bane/Bain. And once the election was over, the first movie that Obama showed in the White House was Steven Spielberg's "Lincoln," with its equally prescient synopsis of a President who overcomes partisan divisions to bring social justice to America. "I never compared myself to Lincoln", Obama told David Gregory on "Meet the Press." But he did film a metajoke for the White House Correspondents Dinner in which he played Daniel Day-Lewis preparing to play Obama in a biopic spoof of Lincoln. Alas, Barack Obama is no Lincoln. Honest Abe may have had the power to make the opposition vote his way, but when Obama invited congressional Republicans to attend the showing of Spielberg's movie, not one of them turned up. That's typical. When the President threw a barbecue for newly elected House Republicans, only one third showed, and John Boehner has set a record for dodging state dinners. Once, Obama eschewed connection with the Hollywood liberal establishment. Now he relies upon it for money, for selling Obamacare to voters and -- most importantly -- for helping to define a shifting image of what he wants his presidency to be. There is nothing unusual in this. Richard Nixon used John Wayne to define his foreign policy, Ronald Reagan's Western swagger was pure Hollywood invention. But this kind of celluloid fantasy-making is far from healthy. Congress isn't a place that can be navigated by idealism; a dangerous world cannot be managed with superhero theatrics (such as drone strikes). Expectations are raised excessively by promising to solve all these problems with the same ease that they do in the movies. Moreover, talking in clichés encourages partisanship. While the Democrats cling to being Jed Bartlets, the Republicans see themselves as Men With No Name -- and there's little common ground that can be reached between people competing to be more stubbornly archetypal than the rest. Where do you retreat to when your policies fail and the partisanship grows deafening? Your base. After a term and a half of promising to be a different kind of Democrat, to change things, to reshape politics for ordinary people -- Barack Obama finds himself seeking comfort in the audience of old-fashioned, dare I say "fading," liberal stars like Barbra Streisand. Hollywood might still imagine him to be a superhero, but Obama has really become the thing that in 2008 he set out to avoid: another Clinton Democrat. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Timothy Stanley: If Obama is a disappointment, Hollywood is partly to blame . Stanley: Obama used to challenge or snub the celebrity liberal elite . He says it's ironic that Obama needs their help now, for money and for image . Stanley: Hollywood might still imagine him to be a superhero, but there's reality . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Timothy Stanley: If Obama is a disappointment, Hollywood is partly to blame . Stanley: Obama used to challenge or snub the celebrity liberal elite . He says it's ironic that Obama needs their help now, for money and for image . Stanley: Hollywood might still imagine him to be a superhero, but there's reality .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Arsene Wenger attacked Serbian referee Milorad Mazic after Aaron Ramsey was sent off in Arsenal’s stormy Champions League qualifier against Besiktas. Wenger, who narrowly missed being hit by a bottle thrown from the stands at the final whistle, was angry with the officiating inside the intimidating Ataturk Stadium after they escaped with a 0-0 draw. Ramsey picked up two yellow cards, Mikel Arteta came off with an ankle injury after Demba Ba fouled him and Besiktas manager Slaven Bilic was sent off in the final seconds. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Ramsey red card unbelievable - Wenger . Dumbfounded: Aaron Ramsey was sent off for Arsenal against Besiktas on Tuesday night . Silly boy: Ramsey received (left) his second yellow card for bringing down Besiktas' Oguzhan Ozyakup (right) Fuming: Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger describes the decision to send off Ramsey as 'wrong' Arsenal have reported the bottle thrown incident to UEFA and the governing body will open an investigation into the matter today. Wenger said: ‘Neither the first nor the second yellow card was deserved. When you see some of the fouls made tonight and we go home with Ramsey red carded, it's a bit unbelievable. ‘I think it was a very bad challenge on Arteta, but the referee was on the pitch and didn't make anything of it. In the second half the performance of the referee was very bad. Arteta turned his ankle on the tackle. ‘To send off Ramsey was wrong and it was a huge decision. I felt just a lot was wrong in the second half but, overall, it was a difficult game maybe to referee as well. ‘Everybody did fight for every ball. Maybe it was not easy for the referee as well. ‘The referee had a few conversations with Bilic in the second half and, in the end, sent him off. He can explain that much better. I don't know really why he sent him off.’ Wenger also confirmed that he has made a complaint to UEFA after a missile was launched at him after the final whistle. In the spotlight: Wenger was unhappy by the display of referee Milorad Mazic (centre) Disgraceful scenes: Wenger has reported to UEFA a bottle that was thrown at him by the Besiktas fans . Sour note: Arsenal captain Mikel Arteta (second left) had to be replaced due to injury . Arsenal face Besiktas in the second leg on Wednesday, with the draw for the group phase of the Champions League in Monaco the following day. Arsenal returned to London overnight and will assess the injury to Arteta today as they begin preparations for Saturday’s trip to Everton. Wenger’s World Cup trio are all expected to be in the squad after the Arsenal manager confirmed they will be available. He said: ‘We are a bit short at the back, yes you're right. I'm worried. But we should have Mertesacker and Ozil and Podolski available again at the weekend. Let's hope they are in good shape when we go home.’ Off: Besiktas coach Slaven Bilic (right) was sent to the stands for persistent remonstrations with UEFA officials . VIDEO Ramsey red card unbelievable - Wenger . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has blasted Aaron Ramsey's sending off . Ramsey was shown a second yellow card for fouling Oguzhan Ozyakup . Wenger believes Serbian referee Milorad Mazic got a lot wrong in the match . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has blasted Aaron Ramsey's sending off . Ramsey was shown a second yellow card for fouling Oguzhan Ozyakup . Wenger believes Serbian referee Milorad Mazic got a lot wrong in the match .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Deni Kirkova . PUBLISHED: . 10:07 EST, 30 April 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 10:47 EST, 30 April 2013 . She made her name with We Need To Take About Kevin, a book about a mass-murderer's mother's struggle to accept her son's killings. The novel that was turned down by 30 publishers before Serpent's Tail launched it to cult status was adapted to a hit film starring Tilda Swinton. And now edgy writer Lionel Shriver is back with another shocking book, but this one is a lot closer to home. Lionel Shriver poses after winning the Orange Prize For Fiction for We Need To Talk About Kevin in 2005 . 2011 film We Need to Talk About Kevin by British director Lynne Ramsay starred Scottish actress Tilda Swinton . Big Brother tells the story of Pandora, a middle-aged woman who moves in with her obese older brother, Edison, to help him lose weight on an extreme liquid diet. Her very own older sibling Greg was obese, weighing 24 stone at his heaviest. He suffered from diabetes, was reliant on a portable oxygen tank, and died of cardiac arrest in 2002. Despite the apparent similarities Shriver professes the family in Big Brother bears no resemblance to her own. Unsurprisingly for someone who has experienced such tragedy, Shriver is in unbelievably good shape for her 55 years - the same age her brother was when he died. She admits to embarking on a torturous diet and exercise regime in an interview with Grazia, and reveals some eccentric views on life and health. 'We are meant to be hungry,' she says. 'It's more exciting and enjoyable to be striving for something than to actually get it.' Shriver, pictured with husband Jeff, says we are meant to be hungry. Obesity was an issue in her family . She cycles everywhere and has a meticulous daily exercise regime consisting of 130 press-ups, 200 side crunches, 500 sit-ups and 3,000 star jumps. Even with all this exercise to consider Shriver still doesn't eat anywhere near enough food to actually put weight on, skipping lunch entirely in favour of a bowl of popcorn. Somewhat haunted by obesity, Shriver wards the disease away from herself while indulging in voyeuristic television on the topic. 'Over the years I've watched an appalling number of TV shows like half Ton Man and Embarrassing Bodies - I'm a real sucker for all that.' While she puts pressure on herself to stay slim, she doesn't believe women should be pushed to extremes by the media. 'I would rather see models weigh a little more,' she tells Grazia. I'm especially antagonistic to computer-fiddling. 'So not only do you take women who are improbably thin to begin with but then you start shaving away bits of them until there's not even room for their intestines anymore.' Big Brother is out 9 May (£16.99, HarperCollins) [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Lionel, 55, made her name with novel We Need To Talk About Kevin . New book Big brother is dedicated to her obese sibling's death . Slim writer says 'We are meant to be hungry' Admits to watching Embarrassing Bodies and slams the airbrush . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Lionel, 55, made her name with novel We Need To Talk About Kevin . New book Big brother is dedicated to her obese sibling's death . Slim writer says 'We are meant to be hungry' Admits to watching Embarrassing Bodies and slams the airbrush .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Jack Gaughan . Follow @@Jack_Gaughan . Fraser Forster has been officially unveiled as a Southampton player and is poised to step straight into the side to face Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday after completing his £10million move from Celtic. The 26-year-old was signed after Southampton lost 1-0 at home to Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday in their final close-season friendly. Artur Boruc is likely to lose out with the signing of Forster as Saints travel to Anfield to where they'll be reacquainted with familiar faces Rickie Lambert, Adam Lallana and Dejan Lovren. VIDEO Scroll down for Southampton target Fraser Forster impressive slow-mo footage . Serious business: Fraser Forster has been officially unveiled as Southampton's new goalkeeper . Presence: The keeper has impressed since joining Celtic from Newcastle two years ago . Top class: Forster saved two penalties in the first leg of Celtic's Champions League qualifier . Forster, who has been handed a four year contract, has been one of Southampton manager Ronald Koeman’s primary transfer targets this summer as he attempts to rebuild his squad after a raft of departures from the south coast club. Forster earned a place in England’s World Cup squad after impressing Roy Hodgson with a string of superb performances in the Champions League for Celtic. Capped twice by his country, Forster was the only player not to feature as England failed to progress beyond the group stage in Brazil. In February this year Forster set a new Scottish league record for consecutive shut-outs, passing former Aberdeen goalkeeper Bobby Clark’s achievement from 1971, by going 13 matches and 1,256 minutes without losing a goal. Celtic signed the 6ft 7in keeper on a four-year deal from Newcastle for £2m in 2012, following two seasons on loan in Glasgow, and it is understood his former club will be due a percentage of any sell-on fee. CLICK HERE to start picking your Fantasy Football team NOW! There’s £60,000 in prizes including £1,000 up for grabs EVERY WEEK… . Priority: Ronald Koeman has made Forster his top transfer target at Southampton . International honours: Forster's impressive form for the Scottish champions has earned him two England caps . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Celtic keeper Forster completed transfer over the weekend . England keeper set to start the Saints' Premier League campaign . Artur Boruc is likely to miss out after failing to impress Ronald Koeman . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Celtic keeper Forster completed transfer over the weekend . England keeper set to start the Saints' Premier League campaign . Artur Boruc is likely to miss out after failing to impress Ronald Koeman .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Northern Syria (CNN) -- Syrian troops at a besieged military base just north of Aleppo fired out in three directions on Sunday in the face of a rebel onslaught, part of a high-stakes battle for a city where a top regional leader claimed war crimes are being committed. For days, anti-government forces have been trying to take over the northern Syrian city, where many residents appear to support their cause, only to be answered by fierce fighting by the Syrian military. The fight for the military base is one of many hotspots of violence raging around Aleppo, which is the commercial and cultural center of the Middle Eastern nation and its largest city. CNN's Ivan Watson inside Syria . Yet it is indicative, in many ways, of what's going on, with the rebels attacking from seemingly many different directions and scores of troops inside firing back furiously with machine guns -- oftentimes straight into neighboring villages. Rockets and shells routinely land in residential communities, many of which are largely deserted as civilians flee the area. On Sunday, families continued to use motorcycles, cars and whatever other means to escape the city. They are among the roughly 200,000 people in Aleppo and surrounding areas to flee shelling and heavy weapon fire over the past two days, according to Valerie Amos, the U.N.'s under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs. Nabil Elaraby, the head of the Arab League, said Sunday in a statement that his group supports calls from the Syrian opposition for an emergency U.N. Security Council meeting to address the situation in Aleppo. Elaraby added that the group believes war crimes are being committed in the city. Officials from the Arab League are planning visits to Russia and China hoping to persuade the superpowers, which have vetoed several resolutions over Syria, to change their stance, he said. The regional group's statement came hours after Syria's top diplomat delivered ominous words about the battle for Aleppo, vowing that rebel troops would not gain control of the city. "Since last week, (opposition fighters) planned for whatever they called the 'great Damascus battle,' but they have failed after one week," Foreign Minister Walid Moallem said during a trip to Iran, one of his nation's few remaining allies, in referring to a rebel offensive beaten back earlier this month. "That's why they moved to Aleppo, and I can assure you that they will fail." But U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta, speaking aboard a military aircraft Sunday traveling to North Africa and eventually the Middle East, predicted that government forces' violent crackdown in Aleppo will prove "a nail in Assad's coffin" by turning even more people against President Bashar al-Assad and his government. U.S. increasing contacts with Syrian rebels . Aleppo was just one area hit by violence on Sunday. The city saw 11 deaths out of 114 nationwide, according to the opposition Local Coordination Committees of Syria. At least 41 people were killed in Damascus and its suburbs, a figure that includes 18 unidentified bodies found charred on farms in Moadamiyeh, where a total of 36 people were reported dead. Another 33 died in the province of Daraa, and nine apiece were slain in the provinces of Homs and Deir Ezzor, the group said. State media and activists reported violence elsewhere as well, including clashes in suburbs near the southwestern city of Daraa and the northwestern city of Idlib. That said, Aleppo has gotten much of the attention in part because controlling it is considered key for the embattled regime and the anti-government fighters. Regime forces are preventing fuel and food from entering Aleppo neighborhoods controlled by rebel fighters, opposition activists said. Rebels have had to set up medical clinics in homes. "The situation in the city of Aleppo is very critical and quite serious," said activist Abo Hamdi from the neighborhood of Salahuddin, adding the "Free Syrian Army is preparing for a fierce battle." Aleppo: Great world city in grip of war . Syrian TV reported that "terrorists" suffered heavy losses after clashes in three neighborhoods. With relentless attacks rocking Aleppo, the head of a prominent Syrian opposition group pleaded for world allies to help arm rebels. "Our friends and allies will bear responsibility for the terrifying massacres that will happen in Aleppo if they don't move soon. This regime is planning for a big massacre in Aleppo," Abdulbaset Sieda, head of the Syrian National Council, told reporters in Abu Dhabi. He urged allies to act outside of the U.N. Security Council, as resolutions there can be vetoed. "The rebels now are fighting with primitive types of weapons against the killing machine. We need weapons that will allow us to stop tanks and planes," Sieda said. Libyan rebels move onto Syrian battlefield . Meanwhile, Syria's foreign minister decried what he called a "vicious" international plot against the Syrian regime. "I can tell you that we are facing a global war against Syria, and as a proud Syrian I can tell you that it is a great honor to be part of a great country that is facing a ferocious attack by certain countries," he told reporters in Tehran after a meeting with his Iranian counterpart. Moallem also described a "media campaign" by the United States and others about chemical weapons in Syria. Iran's foreign minister accused Israel of being behind "a conspiracy against Syria." "It is completely ridiculous and delusive to believe that there is a possibility of creating a vacuum in the leadership in Syria," Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi said. "We call upon the people of the region to be fully aware and not to move in the wrong direction, because there will be severe consequences that will go beyond the borders of the region to the outside world." The Syrian crisis started in March 2011, after al-Assad's regime cracked down on peaceful protests. More than 20,000 people, mostly civilians, have died in the conflict, the LCC said. Last week, U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said almost 17,000 people have died. CNN's Hamdi Alkhshali, Saad Abedine and Mohammed Jamjoom and journalists Mohamed Fadel Fahmy and Shiyar Sayed Mohamed contributed to this report. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] NEW: 114 die in Syria, including 41 around Damascus, an opposition group says . Rebels attack a Syrian army base north of Aleppo; troops fire back in 3 directions . Syria's foreign minister says rebel fighters "will fail" to take Aleppo, Syria's largest city . Regime's assault in Aleppo will be "a nail in Assad's coffin," U.S. defense secretary says . [/SUMMARY]</s>

NEW: 114 die in Syria, including 41 around Damascus, an opposition group says . Rebels attack a Syrian army base north of Aleppo; troops fire back in 3 directions . Syria's foreign minister says rebel fighters "will fail" to take Aleppo, Syria's largest city . Regime's assault in Aleppo will be "a nail in Assad's coffin," U.S. defense secretary says .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Hugo Gye . PUBLISHED: . 11:31 EST, 20 February 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 18:25 EST, 20 February 2013 . When these conifers were first planted in a front garden on a residential street, the neighbour next door fondly hoped they might be miniatures. But 30ft later, it’s abundantly clear that the trees are full-size – and after 17 years the dispute between the two homes has escalated to the point where the families only communicate by letter. Furious Ken Elliott, 55, is at war with Dale Woolley, 59, who has let the trees grow so high they completely obscure his house from the road in Cannock, Staffordshire. 'Private forest': The 30ft conifers outside Dale Woolley's house in Cannock, Staffordshire . Outrage: Neighbour Ken Elliott, pictured outside his own house, is up in arms about the oversized trees . The roots of the row go back to 1996, . when Mr Elliott asked his neighbours if they could uproot a dividing . hedge and build a wall to separate the two homes. Mr Elliott paid for a contractor to . remove the hedge and offered to buy the Woolleys mini-conifers by way of . compensation, an offer that was turned down. However, some months later the . Elliotts noticed that conifers had been planted in their neighbours’ garden and it soon became apparent that they were not miniatures. A laurel tree also in the front garden has been cut back at Mr Elliott’s request but has grown back again. 'Intrusion': Mr Elliott claims Mr Woolley's trees, right, have a damaging effect on his house, left . Feud: The next-door neighbours no longer talk and communicate their anger by letter . Now former miner Mr Elliott is preparing to launch a legal battle to have the trees cut down to size. Last night he said: ‘It’s an eyesore. We cut it on our side but there’s only so far we can reach. ‘We don’t open our front curtains any more because then we haven’t got to face it.’ But Mr Woolley’s son Tristan, 29,  said: ‘The trees don’t affect their light.’ He added: ‘When I come outside to have a cigarette, it’s like being in your own private forest. The birds love it.’ Cannock Chase Council planning . projects officer John Heminsley said Mr Elliott has been told he could . make a formal complaint to the council asking for officers to . investigate. He said: ‘Mr Elliott chose not to pursue this matter and the council have had no further contact from him about this point.’ [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Dale Woolley planted 'private forest' outside his home in Staffordshire . But neighbour Ken Elliott is furious and plans to launch legal action . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Dale Woolley planted 'private forest' outside his home in Staffordshire . But neighbour Ken Elliott is furious and plans to launch legal action .

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<s>[ARTICLE] You can be forgiven for forgetting the name of that new acquaintance just minutes after you've been introduced, according to memory experts at University of Sussex. Scientists revealed that while memories can be recalled several hours after learning them, they are inaccessible to us for a period. Although it is not fully understood why . such lapses happen, it is believed to be because they are a necessary . part of the brain's process to avoid overloading with information. What's your name again? Try as you might, information like a person's name takes several hours to be consolidated in the brain . University of Sussex neuroscientists said that any disturbances during these memory lapses disrupt the process and stop memories being formed. One of the experts, Dr Ildiko Kemenes, said: 'Scientists have long wondered why the brain shows these memory lapses. 'Memory formation is an . energy-consuming process. 'The brain would need to decide if it was . worth expending energy for the consolidation of that particular memory. 'The brain has a restricted capacity to learn things and preventing some memory formation would be a way to avoid overload.' In his research, Dr Kemenes introduced an unknown substance to snails' diets to see if they would learn to recognise it as food. When they were fed again, scientists found the snails responded to the stimulus, with memory lapses after 30 minutes and two hours, before the memory became consolidated at about four hours. But if the snail received another different stimulus during the memory-lapse periods, the memory consolidation became disrupted, it was discovered. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Brains are overloaded with information, say University of Sussex scientists . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Brains are overloaded with information, say University of Sussex scientists .

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<s>[ARTICLE] The parents of a 14-year-old boy are furious after their son was excluded from school for spending two minutes too long in the toilet. McCauley Timmins, a year 10 pupil at Outwood Academy Valley in Worksop, was sent home because he spent seven minutes in the toilet instead of the school's regulation of five. His father, Stewart, 56, was disgusted by the decision on Monday and said it was a 'form of bullying' as his son was feeling unwell. Year 10 pupil McCauley Timmins (pictured) spent seven minutes in the toilet and so was excluded from school . He said: 'They only allow five minutes to go to the toilet and McCauley was seven minutes. He was only that long because he wasn't feeling well. 'We knew he wasn't well and we nearly didn't send him to school but we thought he should give it a try. 'He had a second exclusion the same week, because on Wednesday he asked to go to the toilet while he was was in isolation and they are only allowed to go three times a day. 'Even in normal school time toilet breaks are limited. 'He pleaded with them, they wouldn't let him go, so he went anyway because he was going to wet himself, and the excluded him for that as well. 'I believe it is a form of bullying. I have looked into it and they shouldn't be allowed to do it.' An automatic exclusion means the pupil is excluded from the rest of the day's school and sent home. The next day is spent in isolation, separate from the rest of his class. This is finally followed by detention at the end of the day. His mother, Emma, 38, said the issue with the toilet breaks was 'ruining his education' at school . His father, Stewart, 56, complained that the school (pictured) were unwilling to discuss the problem with him . Mr Timmins, a regional sales manager, added: 'You cannot speak to that school, they refuse point blank to discuss things with you. 'We want the school to start being reasonable with the punishments they dish out, the punishment should fit the crime. 'There is no leeway with them, it is very draconian. 'I don't mind them being strict but they should be reasonable.' His wife Emma, 38, said: 'He is doing really well at school but it is ruining his education.' The couple, of Worksop, have two other children, Morgen, 15, and Elliot, five. The school was unavailable for comment when contacted by MailOnline. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] McCauley Timmins was sent home from Outwood Academy Valley, Worksop . He was excluded because he spent two minutes too long in the toilet . The school has a regulation of five minutes and he spent seven . His father was disgusted by the decision and said it was a 'form of bullying' Said his son had been feeling unwell and so needed more time in the toilet . [/SUMMARY]</s>

McCauley Timmins was sent home from Outwood Academy Valley, Worksop . He was excluded because he spent two minutes too long in the toilet . The school has a regulation of five minutes and he spent seven . His father was disgusted by the decision and said it was a 'form of bullying' Said his son had been feeling unwell and so needed more time in the toilet .

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<s>[ARTICLE] England demonstrated nerves of steel to beat Holland in a penalty shoot-out and lift the European Under 17 Championship trophy for the second time. The Dutch youngsters were given a pep talk by senior team boss Louis van Gaal before the final in Malta, but Manchester United's manager-in-waiting couldn't inspire them to victory. England goalkeeper Freddie Woodman saved from Dani van der Moot, while Calvin Verdonk missed the target as Holland crumbled at the last in Malta. VIDEO: Scroll down to watch England's victorious penalty shootout . Kings of Europe: England's Young Lions have been crowned UEFA Under 17 European Championship winners after beating Holland on penalties following a 1-1 draw in the final in Malta . Up for the Cup: England captain Ryan Ledson keeps a firm hold on the trophy as he celebrates with Izzy Brown (second right) and Freddie Woodman (second left) on the podium . Master and skipper: Coach John Peacock (left) and captain Ryan Ledson show off the trophy. It is the second time Peacock has led England to victory on the European stage . Party time: The victorious England players gather around their newly-won piece of precious metal at the Ta'Qali National Stadium in Malta . Pleased as punch: Ryan Ledson shows off the trophy to the England fans in the crowd after a rare penalty shoot-out triumph . Sealed with a kiss: Coach John Peacock kisses his medal after guiding England to victory in this tournament for the second time . Evertonians: Ryan Ledson (left) and his Goodison Park teammate Jonjoe Kenny lead the celebrations . Beaming: Goalkeeper Freddie woodman celebrates after his heroics in the shoot-out . Nerves of steel: Jonjoe Kenny scored the winning penalty in the shoot-out, sparking mass celebrations for England . Winning moment: The England team race forward from half-way to mob Kenny after the winning penalty . Glittering win: England are blanketed by gold confetti as they receive the trophy . Mobbed: Goalscorer Solanke (third from left) celebrates his goal with his Three Lions team-mates . Danger man: Dominic Solanke (right) puts England in front with a neat finish from close range . England: Freddie Woodman; . Jonjoe Kenny, Joseph Gomez, Taylor Moore, Tafari Moore; Ryan Ledson (c), . Lewis Cook (Callum Cooke 73); Isaiah Brown, Joshua Onomah, Patrick . Roberts; Dominic Solanke . Substitutes not used: Samuel Howes (GK); Dael Fry, Demetri Mitchell, Adam Armstrong, Mandela Egbo, Joshua Sims . Scorer: Solanke 25Booked: Cook . Holland: . Yanick van Osch; Hidde ter Avest, Keziah Veendorp (c), Calvin Verdonk, . Wellington Verloo; Donny van der Beek, Jari Schuurman; Abdelhak Nouri . (Kenneth Paal 58); Bilal Ould-Chikh (Dani van de Moot 75), Steven . Bergwijn (Marlon Slabbekoorn 47), Segun Owobowale . Substitutes not used: Justin Bijlow (GK); Rick van der Meer, Mauro Savastano, Guido Janssen . Scorer: Schuurman 39Booked: Van de Beek, SchuurmanReferee: Andreas Ekberg (Sweden) Four textbook penalties from Ryan . Ledson, Taylor Moore, Callum Cooke and Jonjoe Kenny ensured the Young . Lions emulated Ross Barkley and the Class of 2010 by lifting the . European trophy. In normal . time, Chelsea striker Dominic Solanke gave England a 25th minute lead, . spinning inside a crowded six-yard box to turn in Moore’s effort. But Holland equalised seconds before half-time when Jari Schuurman volleyed home a scooped through ball from Steven Bergwijn. Both teams wasted chances in a tense second-half before the English penalty hoodoo was forgotten in the shoot-out. It is a second European triumph for coach John Peacock and suggested that a bright future lies ahead for the national team. His Class of 2010 featured the likes of Barkley, Connor Wickham, Josh McEachran and Saido Berahino, but now a new generation of talent has written themselves into the history books. England Director of Football Development Sir Trevor Brooking told Sportsmail afterwards: 'I thought we were the better team overall and deserving of the win tonight. The lads executed John's game plan very well. 'They're a very closely knit group, they're all know each other's game and it all bodes well for the future.' Peacock . was without the injured Newcastle United striker Adam Armstrong, who . injured his ankle in the 2-0 semi-final win over Portugal on Sunday and was forced to settle for a place on the bench. His . replacement, the Tottenham tyro Joshua Onomah, was the driving force . behind many of England’s attacks with his pace and close control. Partnered . in an offensive formation by Chelsea’s Izzy Brown and Fulham’s Patrick . Roberts, England caused plenty of problems for the Dutch defence. VIDEO: England beat Holland in penalty shootout . Moment of glory: Freddie Woodman celebrates after Kenny scored the winning penalty kick . The defence: Freddie Woodman (left) and Taylor Moore celebrate in front of the crowd . Medallion man: Woodman goes up to receive his medal from UEFA President Michel Platini . Pep talk: Senior Holland coach Louis van Gaal spoke to their squad prior to the match . Other side of the coin: Holland's Jari Schuurman (left), Calvin Verdonk (centre) and Marlon Slabbekoorn reflect on the defeat . Dejection: Holland's players react after their defeat on penalties . All square: Holland's Jari Schuurman wheels away after bringing his side level just before half-time . The future's bright: Juri Schuurman celebrates his well-taken strike with his team-mates . Sliding in: England and Everton defender Jonjoe Kenny challenges Holland's Segun Owobowale . Under pressure: England's Lewis Cook attempts to steal the ball from Holland's Steven Bergwijn . Ryan Ledson (England) SCORED 1-0Dani van der Moot (Holland) SAVED 1-0Taylor Moore (England) SCORED 2-0Jari Schuurman (Holland) SCORED 2-1Callum Cooke (England) SCORED 3-1Calvin Verdonk (Holland) MISSED 3-1Jonjoe Kenny (England) SCORED 4-1 . Brown . curled an effort at goal inside the first two minutes and Onomah almost . flicked a Kenny cross over his head and in as England forced their . opponents, the most impressive team so far in the tournament, onto the . back foot. For all their . direct running, however, England’s goal came from a corner. Roberts’ delivery was only half-cleared and when Moore returned the ball with . pace, Solanke diverted it past goalkeeper Yanick van Osch. Holland . quickly recovered their poise and restored parity on 39 minutes when . Schuurman got goal side of Joseph Gomez and found the net despite . Woodman getting a strong hand to it. Van . Osch blocked a Ledson free-kick from inside the box after he had . accidentally picked up a back pass and Kenny saw a back post header land . on the roof of the net. Spot-kicks . are not usually comfortable territory for England sides but this time . there were no mistakes from 12 yards and captain Ledson beamed as he . lifted the trophy in a storm of gold confetti. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Young Lions scored all their penalties in 4-1 shoot-out win . Goalkeeper Freddie Woodman saved from Dani van der Moot and Calvin Verdonk missed target . Ryan Ledson, Taylor Moore, Callum Cooke and Jonjoe Kenny all scored . Dominic Solanke opened scoring for England after 25 minutes . Holland equalised through Jari Schuurman on stroke of half-time . England win trophy for second time after 2010 triumph . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Young Lions scored all their penalties in 4-1 shoot-out win . Goalkeeper Freddie Woodman saved from Dani van der Moot and Calvin Verdonk missed target . Ryan Ledson, Taylor Moore, Callum Cooke and Jonjoe Kenny all scored . Dominic Solanke opened scoring for England after 25 minutes . Holland equalised through Jari Schuurman on stroke of half-time . England win trophy for second time after 2010 triumph .

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