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<s>[ARTICLE] Myanmar (CNN) -- When Nyein Chan Aung sold his house in Yangon recently he faced a dilemma -- what do to with the proceeds. Did he he take his cash to the bank or keep it at home? He compromised. A third went to the bank, the rest stayed where he lives. In fact, the only reason he deposited anything at all was fear of a house fire. Read more: Looking for transformation in Myanmar . This is banking in Myanmar, circa 2013. An outdated and debased system, open for decades to abuse by the previous regime, and shunned by about 90% of the population. People here completely bypass the banks and keep their money at home. It's the closest thing you'll find to a total cash economy anywhere in the world. Read more: Change in Myanmar, the market view . The Myanmar government has made fixing the banking system a priority but a quick visit to any branch reveals the size of the problem they face. It's an extraordinary scene: Teller counters and the office tables are literally overflowing with cash. Bricks of the stuff, tied in bundles of a thousand notes balancing precariously on top of each other or littering the floor in large untidy piles. And customers bring in more in bulging shopping bags, while security guards wheel in white rice bags with still more bundles of kyat, as the local currency is known. Myanmar is still working on a real credit system and ATM machines are a relatively new development -- if they work. Like most businesses in the city and the towns, frequent blackouts means the systems shut down. I tried three ATMs over the course of a day. None worked. Read more: 11 things to know before visiting Myanmar . But it goes much deeper than that. The banking system we take for granted in most countries -- easy loans, financial products, interbank operations, credit -- they're all virtually non existent here. There is no proper corporate banking. Businesses cannot get loan repayment plans of longer than one year. True, they are rolled over but it means the central plank for corporate borrowing -- a realistic repayment schedule -- doesn't exist. Bank managers still have to telephone the central bank at the end of each trading day to tell them what the balance in the books is. There is now a banking law before parliament and until that is approved, thorough root-and-branch reform cannot take place. And even when it does, the banks have to overcome enormous mistrust in the system, built up over two generations of mis-management. People here highly suspicious of banks. One clear sign of change is that credit cards are becoming more common, but only by Visa and Mastercard. No local issuer yet. Visa plans to issue pre-paid credit cards by the end of this year. It's a small step, but for Myanmar a small step in the right direction is critical as it gets ready to be part of a global integrated financial system. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] People here completely bypass the banks and keep their money at home . Teller counters and the office tables are literally overflowing with cash . One clear sign of change is that credit cards are becoming more common . Myanmar is getting ready to be part of a global integrated financial system . [/SUMMARY]</s>

People here completely bypass the banks and keep their money at home . Teller counters and the office tables are literally overflowing with cash . One clear sign of change is that credit cards are becoming more common . Myanmar is getting ready to be part of a global integrated financial system .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Tamara Abraham . PUBLISHED: . 17:55 EST, 25 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 16:00 EST, 26 March 2013 . A new Victoria's Secret slogan for its PINK line has sparked a backlash from parents who believe it is targeting teenagers rather than college age students. The Bright Young Things campaign was launched to tie in with Spring Break, however many understood it to be a brand new collection aimed at tweens and teens. Parents took to the Victoria's Secret Facebook page to complain, accusing the lingerie giant of 'sexualizing our daughters' and 'making it hard to raise wholesome children'. Scroll down for video . Too sexy for teens? Victoria's Secret's Bright Young Things campaign for its PINK collection has sparked anger from parents who understand it to be for middle schoolers . There is even a petition demanding that the advertising campaign be withdrawn and that the Bright Young Things line not target teenagers at all. This afternoon, Victoria's Secret responded to the complaints with a statement on its Facebook page, insisting that it has no plans to launch a line for college-age women. 'In response to questions we recently . received, Victoria’s Secret PINK is a brand for college-aged women,' it read. 'Despite recent rumors, we have no plans to introduce a collection for . younger women. '"Bright Young Things" was a slogan used in conjunction . with the college spring break tradition.' The level of anger surrounding the rumored line was huge though, with hundreds of parents threatening to boycott the chain. One commenter wrote: 'You are selling out a generation of young women to make a buck with your . "Bright Young Things" line. It is irresponsible and disgusting to . market that level of sexually suggestive items to girls. As an adult, I . will no longer be shopping in your store.' Promotional opportunity: The Bright Young Things campaign was launched to tie in with Spring Break . Another wrote: 'You already do enough to undermine real woman's and young ladies self esteem - now you want further sexualize our daughters [sic].' And one women admitted to being a longtime fan of the brand, yet refuses to shop there any longer. 'I have shopped . regularly at Victoria's Secret for a decade and will no longer be . supporting your business,' she wrote. 'It's a shame because I love your product, but I . cannot support a company that seeks to sexualize children.' 'I love your product, but I . cannot support a company that seeks to sexualize children' A petition also seeks to stop the lingerie giant targeting teens. In a letter on ForceChange.org to Victoria's Secret CEO Lori Greeley, it is accused of hiring 'younger looking teen . models who are scantily clad and provocatively posed'. It also objects to the slogan . 'Bright Young Things' because it 'refers to young women as "things."' It read: 'By choosing to target teenagers with your new . line, you are condoning teen sexuality and portraying teens as sexual . objects.' While Victoria's Secret says that it targets college age women and above only, it does not deny that it appeals to a younger market. Chief Financial Officer Stuart Burgdoerfer said at a conference recently: 'When somebody's 15 or 16 years old, what do they want to be? They want to be older, and they want to be cool like the girl in college, and that's part of the magic of what we do at Pink.' Debate: The level of anger surrounding the rumored line was huge, with hundreds of parents threatening to boycott the chain on its Facebook page . And indeed some parents find the backlash ridiculous. Mother Marina Jones says that she chooses to buy her young girls Victoria's Secret, and that Justice underwear is far more inappropriate, with slogans such as 'Wild Thing' and 'Party Animal'. 'My kids, yes kids, wear your bras and underwear,' she wrote on the Victoria's Secret Facebook page. 'The fact that parents are letting their . daughters shop at Victoria's Secret is not any fault of the store' 'Yes, this is my choice to put my 14 and 12 year old in undergarments that fit them! I buy the Pink age appropriate items. They have been in your undies for a few years now and I think it is ridiculous, that people are pitching a fix over your new line!' And an Illinois-based employee of Victoria's Secret also defended the brand, adding that Bright Young Things is 'simply the slogan for the spring break line...it is not a line for middle schoolers. She added that it was up to parents to decide whether their daughters shop at Victoria's Secret, and not the responsibility of the retailer. 'The fact that parents are letting their daughters shop at VS is not any fault of VS,' she wrote. 'Besides, not all of the items are risque... It's a matter of being a parent and making sure your daughter doesn't buy the underwear that says 'Feeling Lucky' on the butt when she's 12...' Earlier this month, a conservative mommy blogger shocked fellow parents by admitting that she has no problem with her nine-year-old shopping at Victoria's Secret. Sparking debate: Mommy blogger Jenny Erikson, from San Diego, California, wrote that she has no problem with daughter Hannah, nine, wearing Victoria's Secret underwear . Jenny Erikson, from San Diego, California, sparked fierce debate on parenting site The Stir, when wrote that she didn't want daughter Hannah 'to be the girl with the ugly underwear' at camp or slumber parties. She later told Good Morning America: 'I don't think there's anything wrong with having cute panties and bras . from the big girl store.' But many other mothers took issue with her decision, arguing that the lingerie giant is 'too sexy', 'not intended for children', and that Mrs Erikson is at risk of oversexualizing the youngster at too young an age. One commenter on the GMA website wrote: 'It's one thing to get your daughter cute, bright colored, fun . underthings, but Victoria's Secret is geared for sexy, not cute.' Another wrote on The Stir: 'Are you people serious? She is nine years old. I have four girls and as . long as they are under my roof, I will not allow such clothing. Sexy is . for ADULTS.' [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] The Bright Young Things campaign for Victoria's Secret's PINK line was . launched to tie in with Spring Break, however many understood it to be a . brand new collection aimed at tweens and teens . [/SUMMARY]</s>

The Bright Young Things campaign for Victoria's Secret's PINK line was . launched to tie in with Spring Break, however many understood it to be a . brand new collection aimed at tweens and teens .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Islamic State fighters routinely rape girls as young as nine held hostage at the terror group's training camps, it has been claimed. A purported former IS member turned whistleblower says all the group's fighters are told it is their God-given right to rape non-Muslim prisoners. He claimed that those preparing to sacrifice themselves on suicide missions are particularly encouraged to subject prisoners to depraved sexual ordeals, and that many of those would-be martyrs are British. Scroll down for video . Violence: A whistleblower has claimed that British Islamic State fighters routinely rape girls as young as nine held hostage at the terror group's training camps . 'I saw many foreign recruits who were put in the suicide squads not because they were "great and God wanted it" as IS commanders praised them in front of us, but basically because they were useless for IS,' said the whistleblower, calling himself Sherko Omer. 'They spoke no Arabic, they weren’t good fighters and had no professional skills. They were brainwashed into the “women in heaven” and those they could rape on earth before they eventually killed themselves.' Among other dramatic claims, Mr Omer said: . * Islamic State fighters are promised 72 'eternal virgins' in heaven if they are martyred while fighting for the group; . * Non-Muslim women help captive are fair game for sexual exploitation because 'God wills it'; . * Some Muslim women who join the group are promised rewards in the hereafter if they willingly offer their bodies to jihadists in 'Sex for Jihad' programmes - although it is mostly commanders who benefit; . * Turkish soldiers turn a blind eye to the movements of extremists back-and-forth across the border with Syria. Encouraged: The Iraqi Kurd claimed those preparing to sacrifice themselves on suicide missions are particularly encouraged to subject prisoners to depraved sexual ordeals . Mr Omer, an Iraqi Kurd whose real identity has been hidden behind a pseudonym for security reasons, gave his account of life within Islamic State's militia in a exlusive Q&A with Kurdish journalist Rozh Ahmad. In the article published by Your Middle East, he described how he was tricked into joining the extremist group after initially trying to join the Free Syrian Army to fight the regime of President Bashar Assad. He said Islamists within the Kurdish community in Halabja, northern Iraq, arranged for him to meet contacts in Turkey who took him to a training camp on that country's border with Syria. It was only when he arrived that he realised he had been brought to an Islamic State camp. Because of Mr Omer's technical background, he was not drilled for the battlefield but instead trained as a communications and technological expert. Brotherhood: The whistleblower described IS commanders as 'very nice and respectful', while in the camp but he soon witnessed events, such as sleeping with women prisoners, that he felt compromised his moral values . He said that as a new recruit he found that Islamic State commanders were 'very nice and respectful at the camp', and there was an atmosphere of 'friendship and brotherhood'. But he soon saw things that he felt compromised his moral values. 'IS emirs and commanders ... believe it is permissible to sleep with women prisoners even against their will if they are infidels, non-Muslims and apostate women,' he said. 'This happened to Christian women in Al-Raqqa after their husbands were publically beheaded and I witnessed it... 'I saw six jihadists demanding that a Christian woman and her daughter become their wives. The daughter was about 12-13-years-old. 'I told the jihadists forcing women is forbidden in Islam and children can't be touched under any circumstances. They loaded their guns in my face and told me to leave.' Mr Omer said he took the decision to escape from Islamic State after he witnessed the beheading of a fellow Kurd, a fighter for the Kurdish People's Protection Units who was captured in battle. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Ex-member says fighters told it is their 'right to rape non-Muslim prisoners' Whistleblower 'Sherko Omer' says fighters are 'brainwashed' Claims some fighters put into suicide squads because they are 'useless' Says non-Muslim women are fair game for exploitation because 'God wills it' [/SUMMARY]</s>

Ex-member says fighters told it is their 'right to rape non-Muslim prisoners' Whistleblower 'Sherko Omer' says fighters are 'brainwashed' Claims some fighters put into suicide squads because they are 'useless' Says non-Muslim women are fair game for exploitation because 'God wills it'

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<s>[ARTICLE] Traditional Boxing Day sales could become extinct following a rise in pre-Christmas discounts, experts said. With shops starting their sales earlier every year, the British retail ritual on December 26 is coming to 'the end of its life cycle'. Footfall on Boxing Day fell by four per cent between 2011 and 2013 as people found themselves shopped out by the time the customary sales began. Scroll down for video . Shoppers beg sales assistants for products in Selfridges on Boxing Day last year - but scenes like this could become a thing of the past following a rise in pre-Christmas discounts . The growing success of US imports such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday could further diminish the popularity of this year's Boxing Day sales . The Boxing Day shopping stampede could become extinct as there are now bargains available pre-Christmas . Retail analyst Springboard said there has been a huge shift in shopping patterns, with many people snapping up discount electrical items and clothing throughout December instead. The growing success of US imports such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday could further diminish the popularity of this year's Boxing Day sales. The demise of the Boxing Day stampede began during the recession, as shoppers spent less or delayed buying expensive items until the sales started. This prompted retailers to bring their sales forward to encourage spending and, ever since, shops have competed to be the first shop to drop its prices. Three-quarters of the top 100 high street shops have already started their sales in a bid to attract customers, with discounts averaging 45 per cent, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers. Marks & Spencer is already offering 30 per cent off knitwear, 20 per cent off bags and 20 per cent off hats, scarves and gloves, while Debenhams is offering up to half price off everything from boots and coats to dinnerware and watches. John Lewis, Ted Baker and Next appeared to be some of the few stores holding their nerve until after Christmas. Diane Wehrle, at Springboard, said: 'The special nature of Boxing Day is diminishing. It is possibly coming to the end of its life cycle. 'Culturally in Britain, Boxing Day is still a day when people shop, while Black Friday is a relatively new import from the US. 'But Boxing Day is no longer what it used to be, partly because the sales are starting before Christmas, so there is less impetus to rush out to the shops after Christmas, and partly because of the growth of online shopping.' She said high street retailers needed to adapt and give families a reason to venture out on Boxing Day, including putting on entertainment. She said: 'They need to make it an event again so that people want to go to 'experience' the sales. 'They could have entertainers or demonstrations or celebrities to attract people in.' The demise of the Boxing Day stampede began during the recession, as shoppers spent less or delayed buying expensive items until the sales started . The mad scramble for cut-price goods on Boxing Day, such as this scene in Selfridges, could become extinct . Only a few years ago, pre-Christmas sales were rare, with retailers able to charge full price for festive outfits and gifts . The rise in online shopping also means that many people spend their Christmas money and gift vouchers on December 25 itself, using their phones and computer tablets to do so. Amazon has predicted this will be its busiest Christmas on record, with sales peaking at 12.26pm and again at 9.02pm, as families download films, music and books on their Kindles and tablets. This new trend also eats into Boxing Day revenues, with many consumers felling they have 'spent up' by the time they fall asleep in Christmas Day. Only a few years ago, pre-Christmas sales were rare, with retailers able to charge full price for festive outfits and gifts. But retailers were forced to slash their prices in the aftermath of the economic crisis to lure shoppers back on to the High Street. Now, customers expect these sales every December. Accounting company BDO claims that 'consumers have become conditioned towards waiting for promotions before making purchases'. Millions of Britons will hit the high street on Tuesday in a last-minute rush, on what is expected to be the busiest shopping day of the year . The busiest hour on Tuesday will apparently fall between 1pm and 2pm, with an estimated £1.3bn set to be spent using its cards on the high street . The December sales have also encouraged people to put off their Christmas shopping, rather than stockpiling in November. It means millions of Britons will hit the high street on Tuesday in a last-minute rush, on what is expected to be the busiest shopping day of the year. The busiest hour will apparently fall between 1pm and 2pm, according to credit card provider Visa, with an estimated £1.3bn set to be spent using its cards on the high street. For those wishing to avoid the crowds, brave shoppers could delay until the quietest hour of the week on the high street – 3pm on Christmas Eve. While expensive iPads, Kindles and games consoles have featured among the best-selling items this year, traditional wooden toys and games have also made a comeback. John Lewis said sales of backgammon boards were up 100 per cent on the same week last year, while its £100 doll's house has completely sold out. Waitrose also reported a 'real trend for nostalgia' as sales of frozen puddings rose by almost two-thirds. A frozen pudding by Michelin-starred chef Heston Blumenthal, called the Ultimate Chocolate Bar, is among the supermarket's bestsellers. Based on one of Blumenthal's childhood favourites, it contains caramel mousse, an almond and hazelnut mousse, crunchy chocolate biscuit and a caramel ganache. Meanwhile, Asda said it has also seen a big rise in venison sales, while Waitrose also has a large selection of venison steaks, pates and sausages this Christmas. Omnivorous Britons will reportedly eat seven different types of meat over the festive season. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Boxing Day sales could become a thing of the past, according to experts . Could become extinct due to pre-Christmas discounts like 'Black Friday' Demise of Boxing Day sales began in recession and footfall has dropped . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Boxing Day sales could become a thing of the past, according to experts . Could become extinct due to pre-Christmas discounts like 'Black Friday' Demise of Boxing Day sales began in recession and footfall has dropped .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Washington (CNN) -- President Obama's top economic adviser, Austan Goolsbee, is leaving the administration to return to the University of Chicago, the White House announced Monday night. Goolsbee has been an outspoken defender of Obama's policies as the U.S. economy struggles to find its footing following the steep recession of 2007-09. In a statement announcing Goolsbee's departure, Obama called him "a close friend" and "one of America's great economic thinkers." "Over the past several years, he has helped steer our country out of the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression," Obama said. "And although there is still much work ahead, his insights and counsel have helped lead us toward an economy that is growing and creating millions of jobs." The announcement came after a series of reports that showed the U.S. economy struggling to maintain headway after the housing bust, banking crisis and recession. Sunday, Goolsbee told CNN's "State of the Union" that despite disappointing employment, manufacturing and housing price figures, the long-term trends remain positive. Goolsbee taught at the University of Chicago for 14 years before joining the administration and will return to the school in time for the fall semester, the White House said. Before being named chairman of the advisory council in September, he served as a senior adviser to Obama's Council on Jobs and Competitiveness and as staff economist for the Economic Recovery Advisory Board. "There's no question as you come out of the worst downturn in most of our lifetimes, that it is going to be fragile," Goolsbee said. But he said the economy was "a million miles" from its condition when Obama took office, "when the economy's losing 780,000 jobs a month and people are actively talking about will there be an end to the financial system in the United States." [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Longtime economic adviser Austan Goolsbee headed back to Chicago . Goolsbee has been an outspoken defender of Obama's policies . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Longtime economic adviser Austan Goolsbee headed back to Chicago . Goolsbee has been an outspoken defender of Obama's policies .

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<s>[ARTICLE] The Chinese boom town of Suzhou is about to be put on the map as its iconic new skyscraper is set to be completed after years of construction. The 'Gate of the Orient' towers 300m above the city, and many hope it will give Suzhou a reputation as a leading global hub. However, others are less enthusiastic about the project - because they point out that it bears a striking resemblance to a giant pair of trousers. Iconic? The Gate of the Orient towers over the Chinese city of Suzhou, near Shanghai . Transformation: The skyscraper is set to make Suzhou one of China's leading cities . The building, designed by British architects RMJM, consists of two towers next to each other which join at the top. It is intended to resemble an arch, making a symbolic gateway into the centre of the city, which is near Shanghai in Jiangsu province. According to RMJM, 'The project introduces a dramatic iconic "gateway" to the city of Suzhou and represents the significance of the China in the world today.' Attraction: But Chinese web users have mocked the building for resembling a pair of skyscrapers . Anger: Some suggest that China has become a playground for Western architects with wacky ideas . But Chinese commentators have repeatedly mocked the skyscraper, laughing at it because they think it looks like a pair of trousers. Last year newspaper Shanghai Daily asked in a headline, 'Is it an arch or just plain pants?' And hundreds of users of micro-blog Weibo have been quick to ridicule the building, with one writing: 'This should be called the Pants of the East, not the Gate of the East.' Artist's impression: When it is completed, the Gate of the Orient will certainly be striking . Others had more serious criticisms - one said the Gate of the Orient showed that China had become 'the playground of foreign designers with laughable architecture ideas'. Ever since the construction of skyscrapers such as the Shanghai World Financial Centre and Beijing's 'Bird's Nest' stadium, dozens of smaller cities in China have attempted to match the metropolises. However, many have become laughing stocks for their overly ambitious plans, while the country's economic slowdown could leave many supposedly iconic buildings standing empty for years. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] 'Gate of the Orient' in Suzhou will stand 300m high when it is finished . Skyscraper is intended to elevate the city to China's top ranks . But web users have mocked the building because it looks like trousers . [/SUMMARY]</s>

'Gate of the Orient' in Suzhou will stand 300m high when it is finished . Skyscraper is intended to elevate the city to China's top ranks . But web users have mocked the building because it looks like trousers .

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<s>[ARTICLE] An Indian teenager manages to put on an incredibly brave face during a nightmare seven hours in the dentist's chair when he had an astonishing 232 teeth-like growths pulled from his mouth. Unlucky Ashik Gavai, 17, was filmed having the unusual growths chiseled out of his mouth at the JJ Hospital in Mumbai after complaining about a swelling in his lower jaw. Despite his harrowing ordeal, the youngster managed a faint smile and is seen flashing the peace sign after the surgery was successfully carried out. Scroll down for video . Ordeal: Ashik Gavai, 17, with the 232 teeth removed from his jaw after undergoing surgery in Mumbai, India . Ashik was referred to the city's , where doctors found he was suffering from a condition known as complex odontoma. Odontomas . are haphazardly arranged tooth-like growths. They are composed of . enamel, dentin (the yellowish tissue that makes up the bulk of all . teeth) and pulp tissue (part in the centre of a tooth made up of living . connective tissue). They tend to occur in people in their teenage years, such as Mr Gavai. Mr Gavai the growths removed earlier this week, in what the surgeons believe may be a world-record operation. Ashik Gavai, 17, was suffering from a condition known complex odontoma. He had to have 232 teeth-like growths removed in a painstaking seven-hour operation at Mumbai's JJ Hospital . The doctors believe Mr Gavai,'s surgery may be a world record. They claim current literature shows a maximum of 37 teeth being removed in such a procedure . They claim current literature shows a maximum of 37 teeth being . removed in such a procedure. 'We operated on Monday and it took us almost seven hours,' head of dentistry Sunanda Dhivare-Palwankar, told AFP. 'We . thought it [would] be simple surgery but once we opened [him up] there . were multiple pearl-like teeth inside the jaw bone,' she said. Odontomas are haphazardly arranged tooth-like growths. They are composed of enamel, dentin (the yellowish tissue that makes up the bulk of all teeth) and pulp tissue (part in the centre of a tooth made up of living connective tissue) After removing those the surgeons also found a larger 'marble-like' structure which they struggled to extract. It eventually had to be 'chiselled out' and remove in fragments, Ms Dhivare-Palwankar added. The teenager's father, Suresh Gavai, told the Mumbai Mirror newspaper he had feared the swelling was a cancerous growth. Fortunately the surgeons managed to maintain teenager's jawbone structure, meaning it should heal without any deformities. Once removed, odontomas do not recur. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Ashik Gavai, 17 was suffering swelling on the right side of his lower jaw . Was diganosed with rare condition known as complex odontoma . These are haphazardly arranged . tooth-like growths that often affect teens . Surgeons say 232 may be a record - previous number removed was 37 . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Ashik Gavai, 17 was suffering swelling on the right side of his lower jaw . Was diganosed with rare condition known as complex odontoma . These are haphazardly arranged . tooth-like growths that often affect teens . Surgeons say 232 may be a record - previous number removed was 37 .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed on Wednesday defended the city's handling of a snowstorm that crippled traffic and left motorists stranded for hours a day earlier, and partly blamed local businesses, saying they contributed to gridlock by letting workers leave at the same time. Reed pointed out good things his administration did during a sometimes testy exchange with Carol Costello on "CNN Newsroom on Wednesday Morning." "We got a million people out of the city," Reed said. "We have not had any fatalities. We cleared the way of all of our hospitals, all of our police stations." Costello cut in to say, "Well, I heard this from public officials before, 'We didn't have any fatalities,' but that was just by the grace of God. There were a thousand traffic accidents. People got out of their cars on icy roadways in frigid conditions to walk home." "That's easy to say from your anchor seat," Reed said. "No, I was out stuck in the traffic," Costello said. "I was one of those people." Reed said schools and businesses let people go at roughly the same time early Tuesday afternoon as the snow was starting. That was too much for the roads to handle, he said. "I said immediately yesterday that releasing all of these folks was not the right way to go," Reed said to Costello. "If I had my druthers, we would have staggered the closures." Roughly 2 inches of snow left the roads icy, making virtual parking lots out of streets and highways. Many people, including students on school buses, were stranded in vehicles overnight. At a Wednesday morning news conference, Reed said Atlanta city road crews began pretreating streets at 9 a.m. Tuesday, ahead of the day's snowfall. He said city crews -- which have 30 spreaders and 40 snowplows -- had finished treating "Priority 1" areas such as bridges and exits, and their current focus is helping state crews clear the freeways. Stranded drivers tell their stories . He told Costello the road treatment has been better than in January 2011, when "the city was closed for two to three days" because of a winter storm. "The city didn't even have snow equipment in the last storm," Reed said, later adding that it had "four pieces of equipment" in 2011. Now, he said, besides the sand- and salt-spreaders and snowplows, the city has a crew that has "been working nonstop in 12-hour shifts." At the news conference, Reed said 791 vehicle accidents -- "14 with injuries" -- were reported in the city since Tuesday's snowfall. He said city firefighters have supported 115 people, including stranded motorists. Asked what he wanted to say to parents of children who stayed in schools overnight after Tuesday's snowfall, he said: "What I want to say to them is hold off on trying to get to them. What I can assure (you of) is they are safe." He added: "The safest place for them was in the school system. ... I know it is very tough, but we're going to make sure we're going to get the roads open. ... But right now, we (need people to stay off the roads)." [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] "If I had my druthers, we would have staggered the closures," Kasim Reed says . Roughly 2 inches of snow made virtual parking lots out of roads, highways Tuesday afternoon . Reed says Atlanta city road crews began pretreating streets at 9 a.m. Tuesday . [/SUMMARY]</s>

"If I had my druthers, we would have staggered the closures," Kasim Reed says . Roughly 2 inches of snow made virtual parking lots out of roads, highways Tuesday afternoon . Reed says Atlanta city road crews began pretreating streets at 9 a.m. Tuesday .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- The wedding photo shows the happy couple poised to kiss, ready to begin an adventure that has now taken them to the U.S. Supreme Court. For Karane and Jamelle Thomas-Williams, this is a fight for recognition by the federal government of their legal same-sex union, part of a landmark constitutional appeal over same-sex marriage and "equal protection." Their love has united them, but the larger social issue has split the country for more than four decades. Rulings in that and a related appeal over state marriage laws are expected from the high court Wednesday. The Washington, D.C., couple were legally married last October -- but not in the eyes of some of their employers or elected leaders. Karane serves her community as a Metropolitan Police officer. Jamelle serves her country in the U.S. Air Force Reserve. But since she is a federal worker, the couple cannot share the 1,000-plus federal perks enjoyed by married heterosexuals -- joint tax returns, loan programs for veterans, and survivor, pension, bankruptcy, family medical leave and health insurance benefits. Under the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) passed in 1996, marriage is defined for federal purposes as between one man and one woman. That means the estimated 120,000 gay and lesbian couples legally married in nine states and the District of Columbia are still considered -- in the eyes of DOMA opponents -- the equivalent of girlfriend and boyfriend. CNNMoney.com: Big money at stake in same-sex marriage ruling . "As a federal employee and as an airman, you get a constant reminder that you're second class," Jamelle told CNN. "I had to list Karane as my sister just so that someone would call her in the event that I'm killed or missing in action, or I'm hurt on the job. She can't be my emergency contact, she can't receive my remains. As far as my death benefit, I had to list her as 'other.'" Adding to the confusion is Karane's status as a D.C. government employee. She enjoys the benefits of her relationship with Jamelle because her local government in the nation's capital recognizes same-sex marriage. "But once we step outside of D.C., it's a whole other ballgame," said Karane. In neighboring Virginia, which does not recognize their marriage, the couple says they are viewed as "legal strangers." The woman at the center of the case . What is federal government's role in defining marriage? The larger debate over DOMA's intent and impact 17 years after passage has driven a wedge between the executive and legislative branches. At issue is what role the federal government should play when it comes to marriage -- something states have traditionally controlled. Challenging DOMA: 5 things we learned . "What the court is being asked to decide is whether or not Congress can pass a law that treats same-sex couples, who are already married under the laws of their state, different from opposite-sex couples," said Amy Howe, a leading appellate attorney and editor of SCOTUSblog.com. Four federal district courts and two appeals courts have already struck down the law's restrictive benefits provision. And in a rare move, the Obama administration also abandoned its defense of congressional authority, saying DOMA is unconstitutional. That has left House Republicans in the unconventional position of stepping in to argue it should stay in place, at least for now. Traditionally, the role of defending federal law would fall to the U.S. solicitor general's office. But President Barack Obama, in an election-year stunner, said last May he now supported same-sex marriage. The president had already ordered Attorney General Eric Holder not to defend DOMA. That raised the question of whether any party could rightfully step in and defend the law. Justices could put an end to hard choice for gay couples . Besides the constitutional issue, the justices had specifically ordered opposing sides to argue a supplemental question: whether congressional Republicans -- operating officially as the Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group of the U.S. House of Representatives -- have "standing" or legal authority to make the case. "Let's not confuse the issue of DOMA and the administration's decision that it was unconstitutional," House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, told CNN. "It is not their role to decide what's constitutional. DOMA was a law that was passed by the House and Senate and signed into law by President Clinton. In our system of government, the administration doesn't get to decide what's constitutional -- the Supreme Court does. And our financing the lawsuit was to make sure the proper forum was used to make sure that we know what's constitutional and what isn't." Supporters of traditional marriage agree. "DOMA's important because Congress said it's important," said Austin Nimocks, senior counsel at the legal ministry Alliance Defending Freedom. "We sent our elected representatives to Washington, D.C., and they chose to say that marriage is one man and one woman for purposes of federal law." And many conservatives argue the courts should stay out of the larger constitutional issues and let citizens and the legislatures hash it out. Some activists worry nine unelected justices will issue a sweeping 50-state mandate and redefine marriage as whatever personal bond they now think it is. Carrie Severino, chief counsel of the Judicial Crisis Network, says nothing in the Constitution tells states whether and how they should "evolve" on such an established institution. She said liberty is fundamental right, but that government also has broad discretion to affirm the idea marriage is mainly about ensuring biological children are raised in a stable two-parent family with a mother and father. Same-sex marriage in the 21st century "is clearly not what anyone understood as marriage at the time of the framing of the Constitution," she told CNN, saying that should be enough to keep the high court out of the current case. Gay couple fights for right to marry in epic high court case . Lack of protections, benefits if partner deploys . Jamelle and Karane said they hit it off immediately after they met by chance at a downtown club's Ladies Night, and felt like they had known each other forever. They were together four years before marrying last October. Karane said she went to Jamelle's mother first to ask her daughter's hand in wedlock. Sitting in their comfortable Washington home, they appear blissfully happy being together, but DOMA has put unexpected strains on the marriage because of "little frustrations." For one thing, they worry what could happen when Jamelle gets sent overseas in a war zone. "Technically, I am a single person deploying," she said. "So I don't have any protection for my family. I could deploy tomorrow and there would be nothing in place to help my family. It would be just me. So that's definitely scary. Financially, making sure that the responsibility that we have to each other and to our families is taken care of, and it would be like I'm leaving Karane in a lurch." Karane added: "It's like we have to still go above and beyond just to get to where heterosexual couples already are." They believe they are burdened by a triple social stigma -- as women, black and lesbians. The couple hopes to have children someday, but that would create further layers of what they say are discriminatory rules. For now this self-described "boring couple" say they look forward to the day their children would be born and raised in a post-DOMA world. But regardless how the Supreme Court rules, they say they will persevere. "I should be able to walk with my wife hand in hand and live our life. We shouldn't have to sit here on the edge of our seats, waiting for a decision," said Karane. "Are we going to finally be able to just be recognized without any strings attached?... We're humans, we live in a strange society, and we have to work with what we've got." Kevin has a family: A same-sex couple's remarkable journey . CNN's Joe Johns and Stacey Samuel contributed to this report. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Court to rule on Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) It defines marriage as between one man, one woman . Same-sex couples not able to receive federal perks for married . Debate is over role of federal government in the issue . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Court to rule on Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) It defines marriage as between one man, one woman . Same-sex couples not able to receive federal perks for married . Debate is over role of federal government in the issue .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Gavin Allen . Updated: . 08:57 EST, 16 December 2011 . Labour today comfortably held Feltham and Heston in the by-election with an increased majority over the Conservatives. Labour candidate Seema Malhotra was returned with a majority of 6,203 - a net swing of 8.6 per cent from the Conservatives. On a night which saw a turnout of under 29 per cent - the lowest in a by-election for 11 years - the Liberal Democrats managed to see off a challenge from the UK Independence Party to hold on to third place. Triumph: Labour candidate Seema Malhotra (centre) celebrates with her husband Sushil Saluja (front left) after winning the Feltham and Heston by-election in the early hours of this morning . The result came as a relief to Labour leader Ed Miliband who needed a victory if he was not to face a fresh bout of questioning over his leadership. He hailed the by-election success as a 'verdict on the Government's failed economic plan'. Addressing supporters in Feltham town centre, Mr Miliband called on the Tories to 'listen' to voters. He said: 'I think it is pretty offensive that the Conservatives are saying this morning "Well, what do you expect? It's a traditional Labour area". 'They shouldn't be denying the people's choice, they should be listening to the people's verdict. 'I think that is one of the things people really don't like about this government - that they don't listen. They really need to start listening. The triumphant candidate said her victory is a 'wake-up call' for Prime Minister David Cameron. Important message: Ms Malhotra delivers her winning speech as the unsuccessful candidates, Lib Dem Roger Crouch (centre) and Tory Mark Bowen (head bowed), listen on at the Civic Centre in Hounslow, west London . Ms Malhotra said: 'Even on a lower turnout we've increased substantially our majority and the Tories have got to be asking the question of why. 'This is a really important message that's been sent to Mr Cameron.' The Conservatives however said Labour . should have extended their majority even further if they were looking . to be on course for victory at the next general election, set for 2015. The defeated Tory candidate Mark Bowen insisted that he was 'proud' of the result, despite seeing his party's share of the vote fall. 'We have done a lot better than the pollsters and bookmakers suggested we would do,' he said. For the Lib Dems there was relief that they avoided the humiliation of being beaten into fourth place, despite a sharp fall in their share of the vote. Delight: Supporters celebrate Ms Malhotra's victory, which increased Labour's share of the vote from 43per cent at the general election to 54per cent . Lib Dem candidate Roger Crouch said: 'We have shown that we are still resilient and still relevant.' However Ukip leader Nigel Farage said the Lib Dems were 'almost a busted flush'. 'People are turning to Ukip as they realise we are serious when it comes to putting Britain first,' he said. Ukip had been hoping to overhaul the Lib Dems but admitted their chances had been damaged by David Cameron's decision to wield the veto at the Brussels summit, which gave the Tories a fillip in the final week of the campaign. Labour increased their share of the vote from 43per cent at the general election to 54per cent with a net swing of 8.6per cent from the Tories. The Conservative vote share was down from 34per cent to 28per cent, while the Lib Dems dropped from nearly 14per cent to under 6per cent. In contrast, Ukip saw its vote share more than double from 2per cent to over 5per cent. The parliamentary by-election was sparked by the death last month of veteran Labour MP Alan Keen after he lost his battle with cancer. Seema Malhotra (Lab) 12,639 (54.42%, +10.79 per cent) Mark Bowen (C) 6,436 (27.71%, -6.32 per cent) Roger Crouch (LD) 1,364 (5.87%, -7.87 per cent) Andrew Charalambous (UKIP) 1,276 (5.49 per cent, +3.45 per cent) David Furness (BNP) 540 (2.33%, -1.21 per cent) Daniel Goldsmith (Green) 426 (1.83%, +0.74 per cent) Roger Cooper (Eng Dem) 322 (1.39 per cent) George Hallam (London People) 128 (0.55 per cent) David Bishop (BP Elvis) 93 (0.40 per cent) Lab maj 6,203 (26.71 per cent)8.56 per cent swing C to Lab . Electorate 80,813; Turnout 23,224 (28.74%, -31.13%)2010: Lab Co-op maj 4,658 (9.60%) - Turnout 48,526 (59.87%) Keen (Lab Co-op) 21,174 (43.63%); Bowen (C) 16,516 (34.04%); Wilson (LD) 6,669 (13.74%); Donnelly (BNP) 1,714 (3.53%); Shadbolt (UKIP) [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Seema Malhotra wins with 8.6% swing from Tories . Lib Dem share falls from nearly 14% to under 6% . Lowest turn-out in a by-election for 11 years . Ed Miliband hails victory as 'verdict on failed Conservative economic plan' [/SUMMARY]</s>

Seema Malhotra wins with 8.6% swing from Tories . Lib Dem share falls from nearly 14% to under 6% . Lowest turn-out in a by-election for 11 years . Ed Miliband hails victory as 'verdict on failed Conservative economic plan'

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<s>[ARTICLE] WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Concerns about the effects of toxins emitted from burning trash at military installations in Iraq and Afghanistan have members of Congress demanding more tests and research. The U.S. military burns waste -- including medical waste -- in pits near an Air Force base in Iraq. The members of Congress want information from the military to see if there is statistical validity to complaints about illness and disease suffered by troops who served in those countries. The emissions, from what are known as "burn pits," have been a concern for troops, especially those who served at Balad Air Force Base in Iraq. Many of the soldiers who went through Balad since the beginning of the war became used to "Iraqi crud," as they dubbed the symptom of excessive coughing and black phlegm. Soldiers complained of respiratory problems and skin infections, and in some cases believe they developed leukemia and tumors from the exposure. The pits at Balad were at one point open and burning everything from plastics and food to medical waste. In later years, incinerators were installed at Balad, but many other bases in Iraq and Afghanistan still use the pits without incinerators to burn garbage. Various tests by the military concluded that emissions are not harmful. The military said smoke from the pit exposed troops to toxic emissions, including low levels of cancer-causing dioxins. But its tests indicate there is no long-term danger, officials said. "The data indicate that there are no substances above a health threshold that should generate any long-term health risks, including cancer," Craig Postlewaite of the force readiness and health assurance office at the Department of Defense said. At the Pentagon's Force Health Protection Directorate, officials analyzed more than 160 air samples and concluded, in a soon to be released report, that the only risk is of temporary respiratory distress, nothing that poses a long-term threat. But many -- including some members of Congress -- remain unconvinced. "After years of helping veterans of the Vietnam and Gulf wars cope with the health effects of toxic battlefields, we have learned that we must take exposures to toxins seriously to ensure that this generation of service members does not face the same difficulties," the congressmen say in the letter to be sent Monday to the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology. The letter, signed by six representatives including Rep. Tim Bishop, D-New York, asks for data from the military about tumor rates to see if a pattern of problems can be ascertained. CNN was given a copy of the letter in advance. "We are collecting this data in order to help better understand what is happening to our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan," the letter explains. "This would help to ensure specific benefits for service members who have been discharged from service if they become disabled because of certain diseases." [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Congress wants information to see if there is validity to illness, disease complaints . Military burned food, medical supplies in "burn pits" in Iraq, Afghanistan . Soldiers talked of "Iraqi crud" -- excessive coughing and black phlegm . Military says tests show that emission levels are not harmful . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Congress wants information to see if there is validity to illness, disease complaints . Military burned food, medical supplies in "burn pits" in Iraq, Afghanistan . Soldiers talked of "Iraqi crud" -- excessive coughing and black phlegm . Military says tests show that emission levels are not harmful .

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<s>[ARTICLE] The last remaining polar bear at Buenos Aires Zoo has died after overheating in soaring summer temperatures. 'Winner,' who was one of best loved attractions at the zoo, is believed to have been unable to control its body temperature in the extreme heat of the Argentinian summer and died of hyperthermia. The animal, which was covered in heavy fur to cope with freezing conditions in its native Artic habitat, was also believed to have been frightened by the noise from fireworks let off to celebrate Christmas Eve. Scroll down for video . Tragedy: 'Winner' the last polar bear in Buenos Aires Zoo, Argentina, has died from hyperthermia in the soaring summer heat . The zoo is a popular visitor attraction in the Argentine capital and has a tradition of looking after polar bears. The animals used to live in a pool but their cage was improved in 1993 when a 145,000-litre pool was built along with a site for birthing and three security rings. The zoo said in a statement that it had been visited by experts and met all international regulations to house polar bears. Heat: 'Winner' was a popular attraction for visitors to the Zoo (seen here swimming in his pool) Environment: Designed to survive in the Artic - polar bears do not cope well in very hot conditions . The polar bear is often regarded as a marine mammal because of the large amount of time it spends at sea. Its preferred habitat is the annual sea ice covering the waters over the continental shelf in the Artic. The animal is a very good swimmer with some spotted in the sea as far as 200 miles from land. Hardy: Polar bears often spend as much time in the sea as they do on land as they hunt for prey . Polar bears cannot simply acclimatise to hot climates. Even if a polar bear is born in a warm climate and lives there all of his life, he will still possess several physiological adaptations to life in the Arctic. Even if he loses some fur and blubber, he will always have black skin that absorbs heat and hollow hairs which work as efficient solar collectors. Polar bears do not have any physical means of staying cool; they rely on behaviour to do that. They will try to take as much shade as possible during the warmest parts of the day and cool off in cold water when they overheat. Zookeepers may try and balance their energy expenditure and food intake to regulate their body temperature and may be fed a vegetarian diet or simply very little during warmer times (eating meat and fat generates immediate heat energy). The bottom line is that polar bears can be resilient but this does not mean that they are comfortable. Polar bears are found in the Arctic Circle and on neighbouring land masses as far south as Newfoundland Island in Canada. Some sightings have even been reported in the far north of Norway. The bears are rarer in the extreme north of the Arctic although the animal is believed to roam across right across the region. They tend to favour hunting on sea ice and in the sea in search of prey such as seals. Polar bears often frequent areas where . sea ice meets water - primarily around the edges of the ice pack, where . more seals can be found. The global polar bear population is believed to be between 20,000 and 25,000 with 19 recognized sub-populations. The polar bear is the largest terrestrial carnivore, with adult males weighing between 350 and 680 kg (770–1500 lbs) and measuring between 7.9 and 9.8 ft in length. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] 'Winner' died of hyperthermia at Buenos Aires Zoo after overheating in high summer temperatures . Polar bear was also thought to have been frightened by noise from Christmas Eve fireworks . Animal was one of the most popular attractions at the Argentinian Zoo . [/SUMMARY]</s>

'Winner' died of hyperthermia at Buenos Aires Zoo after overheating in high summer temperatures . Polar bear was also thought to have been frightened by noise from Christmas Eve fireworks . Animal was one of the most popular attractions at the Argentinian Zoo .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Lucy Crossley . PUBLISHED: . 05:51 EST, 16 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 07:40 EST, 16 January 2014 . Drowned: Atur Liana fell into a river while relieving himself after drinking ten shots of vodka on a night out, an inquest heard . A security guard drowned when he fell into a river while relieving himself, an inquest has heard. Artur Liana, 32, was swept away by a current after falling into the freezing water in the early hours of December 22, 2012. He was said to have drunk 'at least' ten shots of vodka during the evening. His body was found floating in the River Nene in Northampton more than six weeks later on February 2 last year by a council worker. An inquest at Northampton Coroners Court yesterday heard Mr Liana may have slipped into the water while urinating after he enjoyed a pre-Christmas evening in the town. Professor Guy Rutty, a pathologist, told the hearing there were no injuries to Mr Liana, but that the condition of his lungs was consistent with drowning. He also said Mr Liana was approximately twice the legal drink-drive limit, according to a toxicology report. He said: 'His flies were partly done up. 'In the past, I have known individuals, while intoxicated with alcohol, to have gone to urinate in water and in the process have fallen in and drowned. 'On the balance of probabilities the findings can be considered consistent with drowning.' Mr Liana’s friend Anna Polakowska told the inquest she and two others had been on a night out in Northampton with him on the night he drowned. The security guard, who was also volunteering as an intern at a bank with a view to getting a job in the financial sector, was seen on CCTV outside the Borjia night club in Northampton on the night that his vanished. Spotted: Artur Liana was captured on CCTV outside the Borjia nightclub in Northampton on the night that he went missing . His disappearance prompted a major police search before his body was eventually found. She told the hearing Mr Liana, who moved from his native Poland to Britain five years ago, had drank 'at least ten shots of vodka' before he wandered off. Recording a verdict of accidental death, Northamptonshire Coroner Anne Pember said: 'He had been out in the town centre and in all probability went to relieve himself by the river. 'It is not unusual for people to have been drunk and fall in.' Grim discovery: Mr Liana's body was found floating in the River Nene in Northampton more than six weeks later on February 2 last year by a council worker . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Artur Liana was swept away after he fell into river on a night out . His body was in the River Nene in Northampton more than six weeks later . When his body was found his trouser flies were partly undone . Security guard's death ruled an accident by coroner . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Artur Liana was swept away after he fell into river on a night out . His body was in the River Nene in Northampton more than six weeks later . When his body was found his trouser flies were partly undone . Security guard's death ruled an accident by coroner .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Atlanta (CNN) -- Ernest Green hit the roads of the segregated South as a teen in the 1950s, using a travel guide that pointed out safe havens where African-Americans could eat and stay. The pamphlet promoted vacation without humiliation. On that trip in the 1950s, Green journeyed the 1,000 miles from Arkansas to Virginia with his mother, aunt and brother to attend his sister's college graduation. His aunt and mother used the travel guide to plot the entire trip. "It was one of the survival tools of segregated life," Green says. Ernest Green became a symbol of the civil rights movement as one of the Little Rock Nine, a group of African-American students who braved death threats and harassment to become the first black students at Central High School in the Arkansas state capital in 1957. A man with the same last name, but no relation, was behind the African-American travel guide, an institution among black families as they traveled the nation at a time when many businesses wouldn't allow them inside. Victor H. Green was a mail carrier in New York City's predominantly black neighborhood of Harlem. He was tall, handsome and personable. In 1932, he came up with the idea for a travel book to prevent African- Americans from being humiliated, especially in front of their families. "The Green Book," as it was known, was first published in 1936. Initially, it pointed out friendly restaurants and hotels in New York. It eventually expanded to include everything from lodging and gas stations to tailor shops and doctor's offices across the nation, as well as in Bermuda, Mexico and Canada. "Through this guide a number of white business places have come to value and desire your patronage," Victor Green wrote in the 20th anniversary of his travel guide. "Without your support (the guide) could not have remained in business and no doubt would have failed as others did. "We trust, in the future, your faith will be justified as in the past; and in so doing, you will tell others of your satisfaction." In the guide's early years, Victor Green would travel to most locations his guide touted. But as the book expanded and he got older, he couldn't visit every spot. In 1949, the Green Book -- officially called "The Negro Travelers' Green Book" -- noted Wrigley Field in Chicago as a great place to stop. The book especially recommended the town of Robbins, Illinois, for being "owned and operated by Negroes." In Boise, Idaho, Hotel California got a thumbs up. Susan Sessions Rugh is the author of "Are We There Yet?" a book about how the road trip became part of the American lexicon after World War II. She says African-Americans had a much different experience than white travelers because they "were not free to travel throughout the nation," especially in the segregated South. "They wanted to educate themselves and their children, and they had a desire to see the country and go on vacation just like anyone who was white. And so they set about doing that," she says. "To know where to stay, they could consult the Green Book." Cotten Seiler, an associate professor of American studies at Dickinson College who has written extensively about automobiles and American society, adds that the Green Book steered African-Americans "to these little oases for people of color." "It gives us a history of what we might call 'driving while black,' " Seiler says. History had largely forgotten about the Green Book. Then came author and playwright Calvin Alexander Ramsey. He'd never heard of the book until the funeral of a family friend in Georgia about a decade ago. An older relative, coming from New York, asked him, "Do I need a Green Book?" "I said, 'What's the Green Book?' ... and that kind of sent me on a search." Ramsey's play, "The Green Book," debuted last year in Washington and featured former NAACP head Julian Bond as Victor Green. Ramsey also wrote a children's book, "Ruth and the Green Book," about the perils a Chicago family faced while traveling to Alabama in 1952 to visit a grandmother. The family was welcomed at Esso gas stations, which sponsored the Green Book. "People were traveling but they were still having difficulties," Ramsey says, adding that his works are a tribute to Victor Green for helping African-Americans navigate their first American road trips. Ramsey recently read his children's book to a group of fifth graders at an Atlanta school for Black History Month. He encouraged the children to never forget the past -- and to keep on journeying across the country. The Green Book eventually stopped being published in the 1960s, following the passage of the Civil Rights Act, which outlawed forms of discrimination, including racial segregation. Unlike most businessmen, Victor Green had always looked forward to the day his business would no longer be relevant. "There will be a day sometime in the near future when this guide will not have to be published," he wrote in his foreword in 1949. "That is when we as a race will have equal opportunities and privileges in the United States. "It will be a great day for us to suspend this publication, for then we can go wherever we please, and without embarrassment." [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Travel guide, known as the "Green Book," helped African-Americans travel nation . The guide was started in 1936 by a Harlem mailman named Victor Green . Professor: "It gives us a history of what we might call 'driving while black'" [/SUMMARY]</s>

Travel guide, known as the "Green Book," helped African-Americans travel nation . The guide was started in 1936 by a Harlem mailman named Victor Green . Professor: "It gives us a history of what we might call 'driving while black'"

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- Freedom. Equality. Both are cornerstones of our treasured American heritage as well as primary foundations of Sikhism. The South Asian faith preaches equality among races, genders, and classes and incorporates this teaching in all aspects of its practice. The Sikh temple, or gurdwara, which means "House of God," is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and has four doors pointing toward the four cardinal directions to welcome people from all faiths, creeds and backgrounds, demonstrating Sikh ideals in its very architecture. You find this not only in India -- where the most notable of gurdwaras is the Golden Temple -- but also right here in the United States. In fact, you'll find it at the gurdwara in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, where one of those doors that welcomes all comers was used by someone who did not have equality in his heart. Those four doors were kept open in no small part because of the tireless dedication and efforts of the president of the temple, Satwant Singh Kaleka, a personal, family friend I had the pleasure of knowing since we first welcomed members of his family to southeastern Wisconsin over 30 years ago -- a place that I still proudly call home. Although we now know him as a victim of this horrendous act and as the hero who died trying to stop the gunman, I remember him as someone who never missed an opportunity to open his heart to you and greet you with a smile. And what a characteristic and beautiful smile it was. His whole family is a fixture in the Milwaukee area and members carry with them that same spirit of love and caring. Indeed, one of my fondest memories is of Mr. Kaleka's family joyfully leading a group of guests in song at our home in Wisconsin the day after our wedding. So full of life. Fate intervened and my family and I did not attend services that Sunday. The loss of our friends is deep and saddening and it hurts. But the effect it's had on not just the Sikh but the broader community has been nothing less than profound. And for that, in the midst of this grief, I am sincerely grateful. In Sikhism, all are welcome and are one, without condition or limitation. All Sikh houses of worship have a community kitchen, called a langar, so that anyone in need of food can come and eat free of charge at any time. Indeed, tradition dictates that everyone who participates in langar sit at an equal level with all other diners to remind congregants to practice what is preached -- that we are all one. Both at langar and elsewhere, congregants strive to serve others, especially those less fortunate. It's a practice known as seva, selfless service, and it represents the highest ideal and function of Sikhs. At their core, the teachings and traditions of Sikhism represent the very best of what our beloved country stands for: a place of equality and opportunity open to and in service of all. And, as they've done in both in their home country and here in the United States, Sikhs have sacrificed greatly to ensure that this freedom is guaranteed to all. But, unfortunately, we also have to recognize that respecting and protecting the liberty and equality of all sometimes means making an uncomfortable peace with those who seek to undermine those very same principles. It means making a place for those who might not reflect our lofty ideals and who express hate instead of inclusion. It means making a place for, and respecting the existence of, people like Wade Michael Page, who committed the massacre in Oak Creek on Sunday. A messy thing, freedom. That said, as Americans and as Sikhs, we are committed to respecting the essential rights of every human. We know the sacrifices of heroes like Lt. Brian Murphy -- in critical condition after he was shot nine times helping victims -- Satwant Singh Kaleka and myriad others, are worth it in the end. It's the price of the society envisioned by the Founding Fathers and those sages who founded Sikhism. Indeed, it's the price we pay for the very foundation of this country that we call home. After all, as it is written in the very first stanza of the Sikh holy book, we are all one under one guiding spirit. Not just those with whom we agree, but all of us. Now, if only we could all remember that. Chardi Kala. May your spirit rise. Join us on Facebook/CNNOpinion. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Kanwar M. Singh. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Kanwar Singh: Freedom and equality are cornerstones of America and of Sikhism . Kanwar was friends with temple head Satwant Singh Kaleka, who died trying to stop gunman . Respecting all includes finding a place in the heart for people who express hate, he writes . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Kanwar Singh: Freedom and equality are cornerstones of America and of Sikhism . Kanwar was friends with temple head Satwant Singh Kaleka, who died trying to stop gunman . Respecting all includes finding a place in the heart for people who express hate, he writes .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- With record low approval ratings and intense criticism for his handling of the Iraq war, Hurricane Katrina and the economy, the word most used to label George W. Bush's presidency will be "incompetent," historians say. President Bush makes remarks on the presidential transition November 6. "Right now there is not a lot of good will among historians. Most see him as a combination of many negative factors," said Julian Zelizer, a professor of history and public affairs at Princeton University's Woodrow Wilson School. "He is seen as incompetent in terms of how he handled domestic and foreign policy. He is seen as pushing for an agenda to the right of the nation and doing so through executive power that ignored the popular will," he added. But like so many presidents before him, Bush's reputation could change with time. Harvard University political history scholar Barbara Kellerman said when President-elect Barack Obama takes over in January, people may view Bush in a new light. Watch Bush address staff about transition of power » . "I think it's possible when people have stopped being as angry at the Bush administration as they are now ... that they will realize that some of this is just ... the luck of the draw." Kellerman, author of the book "Bad Leadership: What It Is, How It Happens, Why It Matters," noted that Bush has not had luck on his side for the past eight years. "He [Bush] has been a quite unlucky president. Certain things happened on his watch that most people don't have to deal with -- a 9/11, a [Hurricane] Katrina, the financial crisis, being three obvious examples," she said. "And yet they happened on his watch. He is being blamed," she said. And that fact -- coupled with approval ratings around 27 percent, according to CNN's poll released October 21 -- is in large part why Obama and Democrats won big on November 4. Douglas Brinkley, a presidential historian and professor at Rice University, said the country is dealing with a "lame duck president" who will most likely face an uphill battle in getting anything passed through Congress before he leaves office. "We're dealing with an economic meltdown ... We're dealing with two wars. So everything Obama does now is going to be seen as he is the de facto president," Brinkley said Thursday. Read Zelizer's take on what Obama should avoid . Historians, beginning to examine Bush's legacy, note that the 43rd president could end up with a better reputation down the road -- something that happened to Harry Truman. At different points in his presidency, Truman earned some of the highest and the lowest public approval ratings in history: 87 percent approval in June 1945 vs. 23 percent approval in January 1952, according to a CNN analysis of polling at the time. Truman, who is often noted for his upset victory over Thomas Dewey in 1948, faced several domestic and foreign policy problems throughout his term in office, which lasted from 1945-1953. Most notably: The Korean War, World War II and later, Cold War relations with an aggressive Soviet Union. "One of the things that has been conventionally done is to compare George W. Bush to Harry Truman, both of whom had upon leaving office dismal approval ratings and of course as it is well known by now, Harry Truman's reputation has, by virtually every account, not only improved, but I would say escalated nearly to the top of the list of greater American presidents," Kellerman added. Another president Bush may be compared to down the road? Ronald Reagan. Prior to leaving office, Reagan faced strong backlash from Republicans and Democrats on opening negotiations with Soviet Premier Mikhail Gorbachev during the Cold War era as well as the handling of the Iran-Contra Affair. "He was seen as bumbling; he was seen as unintelligent; he was seen as a guy driven by his advisers," Zelizer added. "And now he's being talked about like FDR, one of the great presidents in American history and we have a new look at who he was." Reagan is often invoked by Republicans in presidential races -- most recently with the campaign of Sen. John McCain -- looking to shore up the conservative base. Bush, meanwhile, who has long defended his decision to invade Iraq as a way to spread democracy, could also see criticism dissipate over time if Iraq becomes a thriving, stable country. "If you imagine that an Iraq in 10,15 years is actually a vibrant, stable democracy and other countries neighboring it move in that direction ... I think you'd have a strong Bush revisionism," Zelizer said. "How things unfold in coming decades can help repair a battered presidency," he added. Kellerman said that while many will credit Bush for taking charge of democracy-spreading, his "incompetence" will still be noted. "The level of incompetence after the initial 'mission accomplished' was so acute that my guess is, even if the decision to invade might be historically justified, the incompetence that succeeded it ... I think that's going to be very difficult to ever alter our negative perception of that." [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Presidential historians weigh in on how history will perceive President Bush . Zelizer: "There is not a lot of good will among historians" for Bush . Bush is often compared to Harry Truman, whose reputation improved over history . Kellerman: Bush will be remembered for his "incompetence" [/SUMMARY]</s>

Presidential historians weigh in on how history will perceive President Bush . Zelizer: "There is not a lot of good will among historians" for Bush . Bush is often compared to Harry Truman, whose reputation improved over history . Kellerman: Bush will be remembered for his "incompetence"

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<s>[ARTICLE] Many people would find it an attractive way to spend time - getting paid for playing Call of Duty or spending your life trying to break the record for the most number of goals scored in a game of FIFA. Will Johnson, 21, of Arkansas, has earned a whopping £83,000 from playing the first-person shooter, while Jacob Gaby, 15, of Bushey, Hertfordshire, achieved a gigantic 189-0 win on the football game. They are record-breakers with Brett Martin, 31, of Colorado, who has 8,030 pieces of video game merchandise, and Mark Slevinsky, 30, of Alberta, Canada, creator of the smallest arcade machine. Scroll down for videos . Reached his goal: Jacob Gaby, 15, of Bushey, Hertfordshire, managed a gigantic 189-0 win on the FIFA football game, as Barcelona against Fulham. He plays the game for around seven hours a week . Target: Will Johnson, 21, of Arkansas, became the Highest Earning Call of Duty Player after making £83,000 from winning four titles on the Major League Gaming Pro Circuit between 2009 and 2012 . Jacob, who broke the record for the Highest Margin of Victory against the Computer on FIFA, came up with the idea while playing with his brother - and is on the game for around seven hours per week. ‘I never went out to achieve a record,’ he said. ‘I was just sat playing the game with my brother. We were bored, so he challenged me to see how many goals I could score against the computer.’ ‘By half time I had scored over 100. It was pretty mad. My brother couldn’t believe it - he told me to keep going as there must be a record. By the final whistle I had scored 189 goals.’ But the parents of Jacob, who was playing as Barcelona against Fulham on the FIFA 12 version of the game, will not let the win go to his head. ‘They want me to concentrate on my schoolwork as I’ve got major exams coming up,’ he said. Jacob played two 20 minute halves on the game - so he averaged scoring nearly five goals a minute. Impressive: Brett Martin, 31, of Colorado, who has 8,030 pieces of videogame merchandise, was given his first item - a Super Mario figure - by his parents aged just eight. Now he holds a world record . Miniscule: The Smallest Arcade Machine - created by computer engineer Mark Slevinsky, 30, of Alberta, Canada - took six months to design and build, and stands at a tiny 4.88 by 2.05 by 2.36 inches . Mr Johnson - known as ‘BigTymer’ - became the Highest Earning Call of Duty Player after making £83,000 from winning four titles on the Major League Gaming Pro Circuit between 2009 and 2012. He said ‘it’s perfect to have solid proof that I am the best in the world at a craft I’ve spent years working on’, but added that he may have to cut down his game time ‘or I risk losing my girlfriend’. Another record-breaker is web designer Mr Martin, who has the Largest Collection of Videogame Memorabilia. He got his first item - a Super Mario figure - from his parents aged eight. He only started collecting 12 years ago when he began using eBay, but has since amassed a collection worth more than £62,000. ‘My kids love the collection,’ Mr Martin said. ‘My wife is tolerant.’ He added: ‘Many of my friends know I’m a gamer, but I guess after this they’ll realise just how passionate and obsessed I am.’ Driver: Another person to be recognised is Jann Mardenborough, of Wales, who became the Youngest GT (Gran Turisimo) Academy Winner - an initiative set up by car maker Nissan and the Sony PlayStation . Wheely quick: Leyla Hasso, who holds the record for the world's fastest female Super Mario Kart player . At the other end of the scale, the Smallest Arcade Machine - created by computer engineer Mr Slevinsky - took six months to design and build, and stands at a tiny 4.88 by 2.05 by 2.36 inches. 'My wife and I are expecting our first child (a son) any day now. He’ll be the right size to play the arcade machine' Mark Slevinsky, 30, Smallest Arcade Machine . ‘My wife and I are expecting our first child (a son) any day now,’ the designer said. ‘He’ll be the right size to play the arcade machine.’ Mr Slevinsky added: ‘There are all the same parts as a real, full-size arcade machine. It's got a joystick, a display, a motherboard, a power supply... there is no coin slot though.’ Another to be recognised was Jann Mardenborough, 21, of Cardiff, who became the Youngest GT (Gran Turisimo) Academy Winner - an initiative set up by car maker Nissan and the Sony PlayStation. FC Barcelona: Jacob, who broke the record for the Highest Margin of Victory against the Computer on FIFA, came up with the idea while playing with his brother . Big money: Mr Johnson earned a whopping £83,000 from playing first-person shooter Call of Duty . It gives player a chance to drive a . professional racing car - and Mr Mardenborough has since got his . international racing licence. He now drives for Nissan in the Blancpain . Endurance Series. He wanted to be a racing . car driver when he was younger, and was called a 'natural' by the owner . of a kart circuit aged eight - but the costs were too high, so he turned to video games instead. Other impressive feats, which are being recognised in the Guinness World Records Gamer’s Edition 2013, include Canada’s Chris Gloyd and Timothy Bell - who achieved the Longest Gaming Marathon. The pair lasted an astonishing 120 hours and 7 minutes on the Resistance first-person shooter series. John Bates, 85, of Wisconsin, proved that age is no factor as he was recorded as having achieved over 14,000 perfect games on Wii Sports Bowling, making him the Oldest Gaming Record Holder. Kevin Lynch - who worked on the book, which is out today - said: ‘It’s been a fantastic year for gaming, with incredible records broken by players from all walks of life.’ [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Jacob Gaby, 15, of Hertfordshire, played as Barcelona v Fulham on FIFA . Will Johnson, 21, of Arkansas, earned money at Call of Duty tournaments . Brett Martin, 31, of Colorado, has 8,030 pieces of video game merchandise . Mark Slevinsky, 30, of Canada, created the world's smallest arcade machine . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Jacob Gaby, 15, of Hertfordshire, played as Barcelona v Fulham on FIFA . Will Johnson, 21, of Arkansas, earned money at Call of Duty tournaments . Brett Martin, 31, of Colorado, has 8,030 pieces of video game merchandise . Mark Slevinsky, 30, of Canada, created the world's smallest arcade machine .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Martha De Lacey . PUBLISHED: . 11:44 EST, 14 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:44 EST, 14 March 2013 . He was the man your man could smell like. Or, rather, could have smelled like. Because sexy Old Spice man, who has fronted the tongue-in-cheek video campaigns for the retro aftershave brand since 2010, has been usurped... by a wolfdog puppet. Actor Isaiah Mustafa, who gained sudden fame when he was cast as the brooding, half-naked Old Spice man in their 2010 commercial, has been replaced by a character known as Mr Wolfdog, whose 'official' title is Executive Director of Marketing. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEOS . The 2010 Old Spice advert starring a half-naked Isaiah Mustafa on a white horse . The new collection of Old Spice viral ads stars Mr Wolfdog, the brand's new Executive Director of Marketing . In a series of new viral adverts available on the brand's YouTube channel, Mr Wolfdog introduces himself and explains some of his new ideas and working methods. Gone is the sultry opening line, 'Ladies, look at your man, now back to me, now back at your man, now back to me', delivered by the Old Spice man standing in front of a shower in a towel. Instead, the new comedy viral video Meet The Wolfdog - which has already notched up almost a million hits on the brand's YouTube channel - begins with a howl. Sitting in his office surrounded by executive toys, awards and Old Spice coffee mugs, Mr Wolfdog then explains how Old Spice were looking for someone to market their new Wild Collection of scents: 'Someone from the wild, and I guess that's me, director Wolfdog, new executive director of marketing.' Mr Wolfdog may not ride a white horse on a palm-fringed beach, but he certainly means business . Mr Wolfdog then demonstrates his professional prowess by stamping documents, using a calculator and inviting office underlings to hang more business awards. After eating some of said underlings ('Sometimes you gotta eat people, America, that's how business works'), Mr Wolfdog invites viewers to read his tumblr blog and follow his tweets, before saying he plans to make Old Spice's Wild Collection 'the wildest brand in the world'. He may not be as sexy as Old Spice Guy, and he may not ride a white horse on a palm-fringed beach, but Mr Wolfdog certainly means business. The famous 2010 advert began with Isaiah Mustafa saying, 'Ladies, look at your man, now back to me, now back at your man, now back to me', while standing in front of a shower in a towel . Isaiah Mustafa, lord of the Old Spice adverts, has been replaced by a wolfdog . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Isaiah Mustafa, face of Old Spice since 2010, replaced by Mr Wolfdog . Character is 'Executive Director of . Marketing' for brand's Wild Collection . Meet The Wolfdog viral video advert has almost 1m hits on YouTube . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Isaiah Mustafa, face of Old Spice since 2010, replaced by Mr Wolfdog . Character is 'Executive Director of . Marketing' for brand's Wild Collection . Meet The Wolfdog viral video advert has almost 1m hits on YouTube .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Freya Noble . The Federal Budget for 2014 will see big cuts to Foreign Aid, higher prices at the petrol pump, and tertiary students could be set to pay more as Universities will be able to set their own tuition fees from 2016. Up to $20 billion is expected be raised for a medical research fund by 2020, but this is thanks to a co-payment of $7 for a visit to the GP - which was previously free on Medicare. This year could be tough on for families, with family assistance rates on hold for two years, and a freeze on thresholds for private health insurance rebates, though the paid parental leave scheme is set to go ahead with a reduced income cap of $100,00. Scroll down for video . Budget 2014: Treasurer Joe Hockey has announced the government's budget with cuts to Foreign Aid, welfare, and increased tertiary education fees . There is a $10,00 payment for businesses who employ over 50s who have been on benefits for six months, and businesses can also enjoy a 1.5 percent company tax cut. Unemployed people under 25 no longer have access to NewStart payments and instead will be offered Youth Allowance, while under 30s face a six month wait on the dole and must work for their payments. A total of 16,500 jobs will be cut from the public service industry, and politicians and senior public servants are looking at a one-year pay freeze. Petrol prices on the rise: Changes to the fuel excise will be implemented from August 1 and are expected to deliver $168 million in revenue in the 2014/15 financial year . WINNERS- Business: company tax cut by 1.5 per cent to 28.5 per cent for 800,000 businesses . - Medical research: $20 billion Medical Research Future Fund created . - Universities: can set own tuition fees from 2016 . - Private colleges and TAFEs: government to provide grants to students doing diploma and sub-bachelor courses . - Apprentices: Trade Support Loans up to $20,000 over four year apprenticeship (replaces tools allowance) - Older workers: $10,000 payment for companies employing over-50s who have been on unemployment benefits for six months . - Infrastructure programs: $11.6 billion infrastructure growth package . - Mothers: paid parental leave scheme from July 2015, albeit reduced to $100,000 income cap . - Defence: The Government is bringing forward $1.5 billion in spending from 2017-18 to earlier years . - Mining: The Government will provide $100 million over 4 years for minerals exploration . - Ballerinas: $1million for ballet students' boarding accommodation . LOSERS- Sick people: new $7 co-payment to see a doctor; Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme co-payment increased for medicines over $42.70; states and territories authorised to charge fee for GP-type emergency department visits . - Families: assistance rates frozen for two years; freeze on thresholds for private health insurance rebate; Family Tax Benefit B threshold capped at $100,000 income and limited to families where youngest child under six years of age . - Pensioners: retirement age to increase to 70 by 2035; pension increases slowed by indexing to inflation instead of wages, plus Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders will lose the Seniors supplement, which currently sits at $876.20 per year for singles or $1320.80 for couples . - High-income earners: people on $180,000 plus paying additional 2 per cent income tax for three years . - Public broadcasting: The ABC and SBS will lose 1 percent of their annual funding over the next four years, and the ABC has also lost the contract for Australia Network, saving the Government $196 million over nine years . - Unemployed people: under 25s to get Youth Allowance, not Newstart; under 30s face six month wait for benefits and must work for the dole . - Retirees: Untaxed super income included in test for new recipients of Seniors Health Card. Annual seniors supplement abolished from July 1 2014 . - Motorists: increase in petrol excise and indexation reintroduced to raise $2.2 billion over four years . - Public service: 16,500 job cuts in next three years, plus an increase the efficiency dividend by 0.25 per cent . - Science: Cuts totaling $147 million over four years at CSIRO, Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation and Australian Institute of Marine Science loses . - Politicians, senior pub servants: one-year pay freeze, gold pass wound back then abolished . - Poor nations: foreign aid growth cut by $7.9 billion over five years, accounting for almost a third of all spending cuts . - Clean energy: Australian Renewable Energy Agency abolished, saving $1.3 billion over five years from 2018; $460 million over three years cut from Carbon Capture and Storage Flagships research program . - Education: The Government will dump the Gonski school funding plan in 2017-18, saving around $30 billion . - Indigenous people: $500million worth of cuts to indigenous programs over five years . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Big changes to University funding and higher petrol prices introduce . Pressure is on families with assistance rates being frozen . Co-payment of $7 for any visits to a GP plus private health rebates on hold . Paid parental scheme capped at $100,000 . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Big changes to University funding and higher petrol prices introduce . Pressure is on families with assistance rates being frozen . Co-payment of $7 for any visits to a GP plus private health rebates on hold . Paid parental scheme capped at $100,000 .

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<s>[ARTICLE] A Las Vegas woman is outraged after a police officer allegedly ran over her beloved dog, Freckles, with his two-ton cruiser on purpose then cited the family for having him unrestrained. Sarah Hecht, 22, said the cop told her he intentionally ran over the animal after it escaped from her backyard on May 21 and was running toward a group of children playing. She rushed the wounded pet to the vet but had to put down the 45-pound Australian shepherd hybrid because of the injuries he suffered. Scroll down for video . Angry: Sarah Hecht, 22, pictured, is furious after she claims police ran over her dog Freckles, pictured, killing it . FOX Carolina 21 . Freckles was a birthday gift Hecht received after getting straight As in high school. Devastated, the woman staged a rally at the Regional Justice Center on Thursday protesting canine killings by Las Vegas police. Around a dozen people showed up and shouted 'Justice for Freckles' as they called for enhanced training for officers dealing with animals. Hecht was overcome with emotion while speaking of Freckles who she claims was like a child to her. 'I don't have children. He was my son,' she said. Heartbroken: Hecht, pictured left and right with Freckles, said the dog was like her son . According to the Las Vegas Review Journal, an officer told Hecht he purposefully ran over the dog after he noticed it running towards the play area. The dog was dragged along the street by the police car, but survived. However, once at the vet, Hecht made the difficult decision to euthanize the animal. While she was there, her father was cited for having an unrestrained dog. Hecht claims Freckles escaped her backyard after he was taunted by neighborhood children and she insists the dog would never hurt anyone and had no history of biting humans. Rally: Hecht and about a dozen others held a protest on Thursday calling for police to be better trained in their handling of animals . Justice: The group held placards calling for 'Justice for Freckles' Following the protest on Thursday, Hecht wept before Las Vegas Justice of the Peace Karen Bennett-Haron. She explained what had happened to the dog and said she was broke after forking out $1,000 to try and save her 'son's' life. Bennett-Haron and prosecutors quickly agreed to dismiss the charges, the Review Journal reported. The citation wasn't the first for the Hecht family regarding Freckles. The 22-year-old has been cited twice in the past for animal code violations, including not obtaining a permit or sterilizing her dogs. Court records show both matters were also dismissed. The police department refused to comment to the Review Journal on the matter because an investigation is still ongoing. Run over: Poor Freckles, pictured left and right, was put down after he was hit by the two-ton cruiser . Let off: The judge dismissed the charges against Hecht, pictured . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Las Vegas woman Sarah Hecht, 22, claims a police officer intentionally ran over her dog, Freckles, after it escaped from her backyard on May 21 . She rushed to the vet but had to put down the 45-pound Australian shepherd hybrid because of his injuries . She was cited for having an unrestrained dog . Hecht held a rally on Thursday protesting against the police department's treatment of animals before she was dismissed her charge . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Las Vegas woman Sarah Hecht, 22, claims a police officer intentionally ran over her dog, Freckles, after it escaped from her backyard on May 21 . She rushed to the vet but had to put down the 45-pound Australian shepherd hybrid because of his injuries . She was cited for having an unrestrained dog . Hecht held a rally on Thursday protesting against the police department's treatment of animals before she was dismissed her charge .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- Steve Jobs' yacht was unveiled in a Dutch shipyard on Sunday, where the unusual boat designed by Jobs and famed minimalist designer Philippe Starck was christened "Venus," after the Roman goddess of love, beauty, sex, fertility, prosperity and victory. According to Dutch website OneMoreThing, the finished ship was launched at shipbuilder Koninklijke De Vries in Aalsmeer, The Netherlands. Jobs' widow Laurene and three of their children, Reed, Erin and Eve, were at the ceremony. The Jobs family gave each of the members of the shipbuilding staff an elegant thank-you note, along with a token gift of their appreciation — an iPod Shuffle with the name of the ship inscribed on the back. The yacht appears to be as it was described in the Steve Jobs biography by Walter Isaacson. In the book, Isaacson wrote about Jobs showing him models and architectural drawings of the yacht, which Isaacson described as "sleek and minimalist." 10 great quotes from Steve Jobs . According to the report, the enormous yacht is between 230 and 260 feet long, and appears to be as it was described in the Jobs biography — it's an extraordinary vessel with teak decks and large panes of ceiling-to-floor glass throughout. The boat is said to have seven 27-inch iMacs on board, and a photo showed six of them lined up on a single counter (see gallery below — by the way, you can see 7 iMacs on the bridge in exterior photos of the ship). Did Apple's fanboy fever peak with Steve Jobs? The late Apple CEO was aware he might not live to see the boat launched, but continued to tinker with its design. Now, at its christening more than a year after his death, his quotes about the yacht become even more poignant. In the Isaacson book, Jobs said, "I know that it's possible I will die and leave Laurene with a half-built boat. But I have to keep going on it. If I don't, it's an admission that I'm about to die." Update: Here are pics of the yacht, courtesy OneMoreThing, used with permission. How Steve Jobs' legacy has changed . © 2011 MASHABLE.com. All rights reserved. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Steve Jobs' yacht was unveiled in a Dutch shipyard on Sunday and christened "Venus" Boat designed by Jobs and designed by Jobs and minimalist designer Philippe Starck . Jobs family attended ceremony, gave builders customized iPod Shuffles . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Steve Jobs' yacht was unveiled in a Dutch shipyard on Sunday and christened "Venus" Boat designed by Jobs and designed by Jobs and minimalist designer Philippe Starck . Jobs family attended ceremony, gave builders customized iPod Shuffles .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Deborah Arthurs . PUBLISHED: . 07:18 EST, 28 August 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 11:33 EST, 28 August 2012 . He was constantly mocked for his looks by his peers at school - but now rapper Example will be the envy of the same schoolboys who taunted him as he prepares to marry his beauty queen girlfriend . Example, real name Elliot Gleave, says he plans to propose to Miss Australia Erin McNaught within six months - and that he'd like to have children the following year. Talking to The Sun, the 30-year-old singer says that while he was the 'happiest, most confident' person at school, he received constant stick for the size of his facial features. Happy couple: Rapper Example with his girlfriend - and future wife - former Miss Australia Erin McNaught . 'I was never properly bullied,' he . reveals, 'but people would have a go at my features - teeth, lips, nose, . ears. The size my facial features are now - imagine that on a . 14-year-old. My teeth were the same size they are now but on a much . smaller head. I was basically chastised constantly but I laughed it . off.' Example, whose third album Playing in the Shadows made it to the top of the UK album chart, says that meeting McNaught, also 30, has been a revelation. In previous relationships he admits to acting like an 'absolute sh*t' - but with McNaught it has been different. A real catch: Example says he 'can't risk losing' his beauty queen girlfriend, pictured here on the red carpet. The two hope to marry next year . As . Miss Australia (she won the contest in 2006) and a successful . television presenter in Oz, she intimidated the rapper - and turned him . into a 'giggly schoolkid.' 'When I met her, because she was . famous and stunning, I was a bit stuck for words,' he admits. 'It's not . like me - I'm normally a cocky b****** with girls. I don't get . starstruck - well, only once with Stevie Wonder - but she turned me into . a schoolboy.' McNaught has now left her home . country Down Under for the UK to move in with Greave. The two frequently . discuss marriage and children, and Example admits he is planning to . propose over the next six months. Mocked: Example says he received constant abuse for his facial features as a schoolboy - but he had a very thick skin and never let the insults bother him. RIGHT, his future wife at a film premiere earlier this year . They will get married next year, and have children the year after, he says. Clearly smitten, Example says McNaught is his best friend, trustee and partner. 'I don't want to lose her. I am happy now. We work well because I just can't risk losing her, but at the same time she excites me,' he says. Example's album, The Evolution Of Man is out on November 10, and the single from the album, Say Nothing, on September 10. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Example, real name Elliot Gleave, says Erin McNaught has made him the happiest he's ever been . Says he will propose within six months to girl he calls 'best mate, trustee and partner' 'I'm proud to show her off. I want to get married and have kids,' he says . Turnaround comes after therapy sessions that made him think, 'Elliot, you were an absolute sh*t' to former girlfriends . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Example, real name Elliot Gleave, says Erin McNaught has made him the happiest he's ever been . Says he will propose within six months to girl he calls 'best mate, trustee and partner' 'I'm proud to show her off. I want to get married and have kids,' he says . Turnaround comes after therapy sessions that made him think, 'Elliot, you were an absolute sh*t' to former girlfriends .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Ap Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 09:30 EST, 1 September 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 15:57 EST, 1 September 2013 . Secretary of State John Kerry said Sunday that the U.S. now has evidence that sarin nerve gas was used in Syria and that ‘the case gets stronger by the day’ for a military attack. A day after President Barack Obama stepped back from his threat to launch an attack, Kerry said in a succession interviews on the Sunday news shows that the administration learned of the sarin use within the past 24 hours through samples of hair and blood provided to Washington by first responders in Damascus. Kerry said he was confident that Congress will give Obama its backing for an attack against Syria, but the former Massachusetts senator also said the president has authority to act on his own if Congress doesn't give its approval. Scroll down for video... Deadly nerve agent: John Kerry announced Sunday morning that the U.S. now has evidence that Syria's government used the deadly nerve agent sarin in the August 21 chemical weapon attach outside Damascus . While Kerry stopped short of saying Obama was committed to such a course even if lawmakers refuse to authorize force, he did say that ‘we are not going to lose this vote.’ Kerry said Obama has the right to take action against Syria, with or without Congress' approval. But he stopped short of saying Obama was committed to such a course even if lawmakers refuse to authorize force. Congress is scheduled to return from a summer break on Sept. 9. GOP Rep. Peter King of New York, who criticized Obama for not proceeding immediately against Assad, said the president may have trouble winning the backing of Congress. ‘I think it is going to be difficult,’ said King, a member of the House Intelligence Committee, adding that there is an ‘isolationist’ tendency in his GOP caucus. On an account dubbed 'the official Twitter account for the Presidency of the Syrian,' a picture was posted early Sunday of Assad meeting with the Iranian national security committee . Some 355 people showing 'neurotoxic symptoms' died August 21 after an attack with what the U.S. now says was likely deadly sarin gas . Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., said he thinks the Senate ‘will rubber-stamp what he wants but I think the House will be a much closer vote.’ Paul said he believes ‘it's at least 50-50 whether the House will vote down involvement in the Syrian war.’ But Rep. Mike Rogers, chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, called the evidence, including the fresh finding on sarin gas, ‘convincing and getting better.’ Rogers, R-Mich., predicted that ‘at the end of the day, Congress will rise to the occasion,’ but he also said ‘it's going to take that healthy debate to get there.’ ‘This isn't about Barack Obama versus the Congress. This isn't about Republicans versus Democrats. This has a very important worldwide reach in this decision.’ 'We are not going to lose this vote': Obama has asked Congress to vote to authorize a strike against Syria and Kerry now says the case for an attack has only gotten stronger . With Secretary of State John Kerry's revelation Sunday that Syria's government used the lethal nerve agent sarin gas on its own people in the August 21 attach outside Damascus comes a worldwide. Chemical weapons, and sarin most notably, cause an agonzing death and can be deployed over large areas with widespread casualties without regard for a victim's age or status as a civilian. According to the United Nations, chemical weapons have caused more than 1 million deaths globally since World War I. The Geneva Protocol, which prohibited the use of chemical weapons, was signed in 1925. However, the protocol did not prohibit nations from developing or stockpiling new chemical agents. By the Cold War era of the 1970s and 1980s, the UN estimates some 25 countries were developing chemical weapons capabilities. Nonetheless, few instances of chemical weapons use have been seen since World War II. Notable exceptions have been seen in Iraq and Iran. Since 1993, the Chemical Weapons Convention has been signed by 189 nations that have agreed to a complete disarmament of chemical weapons of mass destruction. A 2001 photo shows canisters of sarin gas at a Kentucky army facility. The United States is one of 189 signers of the Chemical Weapons Convention, a move towards complete worldwide disarmament of such weapons . Deadly: A molecular model of sarin, a deadly nerve agent that kills swiftly and painfully. Sarin is one of the most volatile and deadly of nerve gases . Sarin was developed as pesticide by the Germans in 1938. It has since been identified as one of the most potent and rapidly acting of the so-called nerve agents. This is, in part, due to how rapidly sarin evaporates into a gas and spreads into the environment. Sarin in its vapor form causes symptoms within seconds and in its liquid form symptoms appear within minutes. Sarin stops the off-switch enzyme of the body's glands and muscles, causing them to work continuously, Symptoms include: Runny nose, watery eyes, pinpoint pupils, eye pain, blurred vision, drooling and excessive sweating, cough, chest tightness, rapid breathing, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and/or abdominal pain, increased urination, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, headache, slow or fast heart rate, low or high blood pressure. Even a small amount of sarin can cause serious injury and many victims will not know they've been exposed to the oderless, colorless, tasteless compound. Obama, who has talked repeatedly of U.S. reprisals against President Bashar Assad for the alleged use of chemical weapons against his own people in Syria's protracted civil war, announced Saturday that he had decided to defer any immediate action in order to seek a congressional authorization. ‘The case hasn't changed and the case doesn't change at all. The rationale for a military response is as powerful today’ as it has been, Kerry said. ‘This case is going to build stronger and stronger,’ he said. But he also said he thinks ‘the people of America should be celebrating that the president is not acting unilaterally.’ Kerry maintained there is no weakness in the U.S. case underscoring Obama's about-face, saying instead that ‘the president believes that we are all stronger as a nation when we act together.’ The secretary said that Assad ‘has now joined the list of Adolf Hitler and Saddam Hussein’ in deploying chemical weapons against his population and that ‘the case remains the same’ for a U.S. response. Kerry echoed Obama in saying the world cannot stand by and watch Assad use chemical weapons. Killer agent: Sarin was first developed as a pesticide by Germany in 1938. It works by stopping the 'off switch' of the body's muscles and glands . Asked if the U.S. obtained its new information from U.N. weapons inspectors who had visited Syria, Kerry responded, ‘No, it is independent. ... But it is confirmation of the signatures of sarin.’ ‘In the last 24 hours,’ he said, ‘we have learned through samples that were provided to the United States, that have now been tested, from first responders in east Damascus, and hair samples and blood samples have tested positive for signatures of sarin.’ He was asked repeatedly what Obama would do in the event that Congress refuses to give its consent, Kerry said, ‘The president has taken his decision.’ ‘I think this is a smart decision by the president. ... He is not trying to create an imperial presidency,’ Kerry added. ‘I believe that in the end, Congress will do what is right.’ Administration officials have said that Obama appeared set on ordering a strike until Friday evening. After a long walk in near 90-degree temperatures around the White House grounds with Chief of Staff Denis McDonough, the president told his aide he had changed his mind. These officials said Saturday that Obama initially drew pushback in a two-hour session attended by Vice President Joe Biden, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel, Director of National Intelligence James Klapper, CIA Director John Brennan, national security adviser Susan Rice and homeland security adviser Lisa Monaco. They declined to say which of the participants had argued against Obama's proposal. Kerry appeared on NBC's Meet the Press, CNN's State of the Union, CBS' Face the Nation, Fox News Sunday and ABC's This Week. Paul was on NBC, Rogers was on CNN and King was on Fox. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] The Secretary of State said the ‘the case gets stronger by the day’ for a military attack . The evidence comes from hair and blood samples provided to Washington by first responders in Damascus . [/SUMMARY]</s>

The Secretary of State said the ‘the case gets stronger by the day’ for a military attack . The evidence comes from hair and blood samples provided to Washington by first responders in Damascus .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Paul Lambert has told Darren Bent his exile from the Aston Villa team was ‘nothing personal’ and suggested the ex-England striker might look at himself for answers. The Scot also revealed there was no interest from top-flight teams in Bent, who at £18million is Villa’s record signing. Bent moved to Championship club Derby County this month on a deal until June to effectively end his four-year stay at Villa Park. His £65,000-a-week contract finishes this summer. Paul Lambert has told Darren Bent that his exile from Aston Villa's team was because he wasn't good enough . Bent questioned whether his exile was a personal snub from the Aston Villa manager . Earlier this month Bent, 30, questioned whether his absence from the Villa side was a personal snub from Lambert, who said: ‘I think Darren has got to be honest with himself. If you ask anyone here they’d tell you it’s nothing personal. 'I never stood in his way to go to any other club. The only clubs that came in for him were Championship clubs — not one Premier League club. That says a lot.’ Bent has joined Championship side Derby on loan until the end of the season . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Paul Lambert says that Darren Bent was not good enough . Aston Villa boss said no Premier League club made an offer . Bent questioned whether his exile was a personal snub from Lambert . The striker has joined Derby on loan until June . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Paul Lambert says that Darren Bent was not good enough . Aston Villa boss said no Premier League club made an offer . Bent questioned whether his exile was a personal snub from Lambert . The striker has joined Derby on loan until June .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Power sliding across pedestrian-only roads and speeding through a dry reservoir, this is the moment a daredevil driver takes on Los Angeles in an adrenaline pumping don't-try-this-at-home video. Ken Block, 46, a professional motorhead from California, was filmed as he got behind the wheel of a highly modified 1965 Ford Mustang boasting more than 800 horsepower. In a 12 minute eight second edit of his rubber-burning journey, Block is seen flooring the gas pedal as he performs a mix of his favorite death-defying stunts. Scroll down for video . Caught on camera: Power sliding across pedestrian-only roads and speeding through a dry reservoir, this is the moment a daredevil driver takes on Los Angeles in an adrenaline pumping don't-try-this-at-home video . Doing donuts: Ken Block, 46, a professional motorhead from California, was filmed as he got behind the wheel of a highly modified 1965 Ford Mustang boasting more than 800 horsepower and pushed it to the limits . Smoking: In an edit of his rubber-burning journey, Block is seen flooring the gas pedal as he performs a mix of his favorite stunts . Empty playground: To ensure safety, the city streets were closed by local authorities and the LAPD helped design the route . To ensure safety, the city streets were closed by local authorities and the LAPD helped design the route. Block then spent five days covering the city's roads in tyre marks while filming the high-octane sequences. Top moments include a burnout under a freeway bridge and a nail-biting move in which Block drifts underneath a levered hydraulic lowrider. He later performs donuts around the landmark Randy's Donuts store in Inglewood. The project was reportedly budgeted at over $1 million and took more than one year to plan, using dozens of cameras from elaborate rigs to GoPros to helicopter and a crew of about 100. Landmark lanes: Block spent five days covering the city's roads in tyre marks while filming the high-octane sequences . In a spin: Top moments include a burnout under a freeway bridge and a move in which Block drifts underneath a levered hydraulic lowrider . Drawn-out: The project was reportedly budgeted at over $1 million and took more than one year to plan, using dozens of cameras from elaborate rigs to GoPros to helicopter and a crew of about 100 . One of the hardest shots to capture was apparently the film's final sequence, which includes a series of aerial shots of Block's car screaming to the small plot of land above the Hollywood sign. Block's motor-inspired Hoonigan apparel line, Ford and video-game maker Need for Speed backed the film. For the most part there is no soundtrack, just the roaring of the engine and the screech of tortured tyres. To date more than nine million people have watched Block's video titled Gymkhana Seven: Wild in the Streets of Los Angeles. This is the seventh Gymkhana production and the series ranks as the most watched and shared branded web franchise of all time. San Francisco and Paris, among other cities, have previously hosted Block's motorized mayhem. Block made his fortune by selling his share of DC shoes, which he co-founded in 1994. He then turned his attention to rally-cross racing and the drifting-style school of driving known as 'gymkhana.' Getting on board: Block's motor-inspired Hoonigan apparel line, Ford and video-game maker Need for Speed backed the film . Letting the star shine: For the most part there is no soundtrack, just the roaring, revving engine and the squeal of tortured tires . Custom-built: The star of Block’s next video, Gymkhana Seven, is a heavily modified 1965 notchback Mustang with 6.7-liter Ford V8 . Top gear: The vehicle, also known as the Hoonicorn, produces a nonsensical 845 horsepower . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Ken Block, 46, a professional motorhead from California, was filmed as he got behind the wheel of a highly modified 1965 Ford Mustang . The custom-built car boasts more than 800 horsepower . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Ken Block, 46, a professional motorhead from California, was filmed as he got behind the wheel of a highly modified 1965 Ford Mustang . The custom-built car boasts more than 800 horsepower .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Lizzie Parry . PUBLISHED: . 08:07 EST, 19 October 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 09:44 EST, 19 October 2013 . A breathtaking new view of Saturn, showcasing the planet's rings, has been created by an amateur image processor. Croatian computer programmer Gordan Ugarkovic assembled the image, looking down on the second largest planet in the Solar System, from 36 shots captured by the Cassini spacecraft on October 10. Combining a dozen each of red, green and blue filter images the computer science graduate created the stunning mosaic. Scroll down for video . Stunning new view of Saturn created by amateur image processor Gordan Ugarkovic . The aspiring astrophotographer from Croatia used red, green and blue filters to create the series of images . Emily Lakdawalla from the Planetary Society said: 'This mosaic showing the flattened globe of Saturn floating amongst the complete disk of its rings must surely be counted among the great images of the Cassini mission' The amateur astrophotographer, who lists Zagreb as his location on his Flickr site, said on his profile: 'I'm a guy who does programming for a living, have a degree in computer science, but in free time I like to fool around with image processing. 'Currently my top choice of images to play with is the Cassini/Huygens missions to Saturn and Titan.' Introducing the images on his page, he added: 'The images you see here are (more or . less) calibrated images that were released to the Planetary Data System (PDS), . they are not raw jpeg processed images that immediately appear on the . mission website as they're down linked from the spacecraft. 'I hope you find at least some of them interesting.' NASA's Cassini spacecraft was launched in 1997. Following the completion of a successful four-year mission in June 2008, an extension means it will orbit Saturn, captured above by the craft in 2005, until 2017 . Emily Lakdawalla from the Planetary Society - the largest nonprofit organisation promoting the exploration of space - who spotted the images on Mr Ugarkovic's Flickr stream, told NBC: 'I try to be measured in my praise for spacecraft images. 'But this enormous mosaic showing the flattened globe of Saturn floating amongst the complete disk of its rings must surely be counted among the great images of the Cassini mission.' NASA's Cassini spacecraft launched in 1997 with the European Space Agency's Huygens probe. It's first four-year mission was successfully completed in June 2008 prompting a series of extensions, which will keep the craft orbiting Saturn and its moons until 2017. Among the missions' most important focus is a study of the ringed planet's moons Titan and Enceladus, as well as some of Saturn's other icy moons. Towards the end of the mission the study is expected to shift focus diving between the planet and its nine continuous rings and three discontinuous arcs, to gather information about the gas giant. Another image of the ringed planet captured by NASA's Cassini spacecraft . Saturn is the sixth planet from the Sun and second largest in the Solar System after Jupiter. The planet was named after the Roman god who also lends his name to Saturday. The gas giant has an average radius about nine times that of Earth. While just one-eighth the average density of Earth, its larger volume means Saturn is more than 95 times bigger than Earth. The . planet's interior is thought to be composed of a core of iron, nickel . and rock surrounded by a deep layer of metallic hydrogen, an . intermediate layer of liquid hydrogen and liquid helium and an outer . gaseous layer. The planet exhibits a pale yellow hue as a result of the ammonia crystals in its upper atmosphere. Wind speeds on Saturn can reach 1,100mph - faster than those on Jupiter but slower than on Neptune. The prominent ring system feature nine continuous main rings and three discontinuous arcs. They are composed mainly of ice particles with a small amount of rocky debris and dust. There are 62 known moons - 53 of which are officially named - orbiting the planet. Titan is Saturn's largest and the Solar System's largest moon - bigger than Mercury. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Experts claims new image must be 'one of the greats' of Cassini mission . Spacecraft launched in 1997 and will orbit ringed planet until 2017 . Croatian computer programmer compiled mosaic from colour filter images . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Experts claims new image must be 'one of the greats' of Cassini mission . Spacecraft launched in 1997 and will orbit ringed planet until 2017 . Croatian computer programmer compiled mosaic from colour filter images .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Sochi (CNN) -- Amid security anxieties, indignation over Russian politics, the furore over unfinished media accommodation and astronomic costs, one key component of the Winter Olympics has been all but forgotten: the thousands of athletes streaming into Sochi. When not competing, they will spend a large chunk of their time at the Olympic Village -- the traditional home for most of those taking part. Sochi has two to boast: one in the imposing landscape of the Caucasus mountains; the other on the Black Sea's sunny northern banks. These are dwellings that resemble small towns -- you need a lot of rooms to house 6,000 athletes from 85 nations. The coastal destination surely proves an easy sell to any would-be resident for the month of February. If holiday brochures existed for a stay in the Olympic Village, it might read: . "Upmarket holiday camp, with pleasant residential buildings that come inclusive with very own McDonald's, round-the-clock dining room with flavors from around the world, fully-fitted games room -- boasting table tennis, pool tables and computer games -- free bar and 24-hour gym, in great location just off the beach. "There are grass lawns to sit out on and enjoy the sun (the climate is so favorable they say there are only three seasons, winter is skipped on the coast), traffic is non-existent and crime is wonderfully low. " Just as importantly for the athletes, their accommodation is a stone's throw away from some of the best winter sport facilities in the world, making it possible to have your breakfast and walk to the ice rink in under 10 minutes -- a first in Winter Olympic history. But with any holiday accommodation, and especially when you have thousands of happy campers to please, there have been a few teething problems. So the management would like to apologize for the swimming pools not being ready -- they are currently empty of water -- and an inability to fulfil the promise of creating landscapes in and around the athletes' blocks. "In the brochure the organizers provided to the teams this area was meant to be a bird sanctuary ... but I don't think they were able to plant the trees in time," Team GB short-track speed skater Charlotte Gilmartin told CNN . "But apart from that everything else has been great!" added Gilmartin as she follows the gravel path which navigates across an area of wasteland separating the dining facilities from her team's apartment building. We'll guess from that she'd give it a four-star rating as she crosses the road and opens the door to a building which, on every floor, has balconies festooned with British flags. Flags which, incidentally, have already become a source of rivalry between athletes from competing nations, if the images posted on Twitter and Instagram are anything to go by -- the bigger the better. For the duration of the Games, Gilmartin will call this home. Once inside, after traveling up four flights in an elevator that still has that freshly-installed smell, we walk down a clean, window-lit passageway to a door that has a Union Jack flag doormat daubed with a "Welcome" message. Gilmartin's airy, open-plan room consists of two single beds -- she shares it with a teammate -- with sea views from a decent-sized balcony, a modern bathroom, double-glazed windows, storage cupboards and an ample lounge area with television. Orange bikes . As with all Olympic Games, the organizers provide teams with a fully functional room with basic furniture -- similar in quality to a well-known Swedish brand by the look of it -- and then allow the respective Olympic associations to adorn the rooms as they see fit. In Team GB's case, this entails some patriotic pictures hung on the wall, the provision of "good luck" cuddly toys, themed cushions and the aforementioned doormat. Despite reports of pillow shortages in the mountain cluster village, both beds boast two cushions apiece. Each room's crowning glory is surely the uniquely patterned quilt for the beds that can then be taken home afterwards by competitors as a souvenir -- as is traditional for all Games . The 2014 quilts are light-blue with stitched diamonds of colored flowers. Very nice. Very Russian. So if there have been problems with hotels occupied by journalists, it seems the Winter Games athletes are having a very different experience. "After five days I have no problems," says Russian speed skater Ekaterina Lobysheva -- a veteran of three Olympic Games -- speaking to CNN over a lunch of Chinese noodles. "And the food is very good. I prefer Asian and Italian food, which is good because they have a cook here from Italy too. "I'm lucky, I don't really have a diet because I use so many calories. This is the first time my country has hosted the Winter Games and I hope these facilities will help popularize my sport." Finnish ice hockey player Susanna Tapan also gave the accommodation the thumbs up. "It's very exciting. This is my first Olympics, and I'm enjoying it very much so far. The accommodation has been great." One of the most striking attractions of the village is the way different nations bring their own distinctive characteristics. Most notably the Dutch, who are pedaling around on orange bikes. There may not be the recording studio that London 2012 laid on for the athletes, but between the gym, the bar, the dining room, the pool tables and the beach, there is plenty to keep them occupied. And if spectators find their hotels are closer to the standard of the athletes' village compared to that of the media accommodation, we might even start to get excited about the great sporting prospect that awaits. Let the Games begin! [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Sochi's two Olympic villages house 6,000 athletes from 85 nations. Athletes can access games room and 24-hour gym . Athletes allowed to take home uniquely patterned quilts . 2014 quilts are light-blue with stitched diamonds of colored flower . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Sochi's two Olympic villages house 6,000 athletes from 85 nations. Athletes can access games room and 24-hour gym . Athletes allowed to take home uniquely patterned quilts . 2014 quilts are light-blue with stitched diamonds of colored flower .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Claire Ellicott . and Inderdeep Bains . and Sian Boyle . For Britain’s first Lottery-winning pub syndicate, the chance to safeguard their jackpot by investing with a well-known retired local accountant seemed like a sensible step. But furious villagers have now been told that millions of pounds of their winnings and other savings have been lost in the disastrous scheme. Police are investigating David Reeves, 68, after he confessed the losses to his clients, who are thought to include several members of the Tudor Tavern pub syndicate which won a £3.6million jackpot in 1997. Jackpot: Police are investigating David Reeves, 68, after he confessed the losses to his clients, thought to include several members of the Tudor Tavern pub syndicate (pictured) which won a £3.6million jackpot in 1997 . Last night angry villagers said they wanted answers and accused Reeves of losing their life savings and pensions in the failed scheme. One victim claimed that he even asked residents to give him more money so he could claw back their investments. It also emerged that Reeves is not registered with the Financial Conduct Authority – a requirement for anyone investing other people’s money. The 6ft 5in ex-policeman and former used car salesman handed himself in to police last weekend after leaving his home in East Preston, West Sussex. Pub: As well as members of the pub syndicate, other Lottery winners from the area are also thought to have been affected as well as local residents, from pensioners to businessmen. Above, the Tudor Tavern today . As well as members of the pub syndicate, other Lottery winners from the area are also thought to have been affected as well as local residents – from pensioners to wealthy businessmen – who simply wanted to invest money for the future. The sums handed over range from as little as a few thousand pounds to £1million, victims said. One businessman who believes he has lost money in the scheme said: ‘Around 80 people have been affected and have lost a lot of money. We’re talking several million pounds.’ The victim, who has known Reeves for several years but did not want to be named, added: ‘We’ve all had this letter. 'It basically says that he has lost everybody’s money and he is asking them to reinvest so he can try to claw it back again.’ A former client of Reeves said: ‘There are a lot of angry people in the village who are desperate for answers. It is not known if it’s just bad investments or if he’s done something underhand. He’s been investing in the American markets for years and has in the past made people money.’ Another former client added: ‘He’s been running this private investors’ group for years and years. People have lost their pensions and life savings.’ Reeves has not been seen since news of the losses broke last week, but angry villagers have been spotted approaching his rented detached bungalow looking for answers. Another victim said: ‘I haven’t been able to get hold of him since getting the letter. It looks like he’s gone to ground.’ Outrage: Last night villagers in East Preston accused Reeves of losing their life savings in the failed scheme . Reeves, who has been described as a recluse by neighbours, has lived in the village for 30 years. He retired as an accountant after being diagnosed with cancer. It is believed that he then operated a private investors’ club in which residents of the seaside village entrusted him with their life savings. A spokesman for Sussex police said: ‘A Littlehampton man contacted local police on Friday 28 February to report matters relating to investment schemes he had been operating for some local people. ‘Initial inquiries are being made to establish the full circumstances. No arrest has been made at this stage.’ The Financial Conduct Authority said that anyone investing money on behalf of other people should register with them. They said that Reeves had not registered. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Police investigating David Reeves, 68, after he confessed losses to clients . Clients thought to include several members of Tudor Tavern pub syndicate . Group pictured with champagne after winning £3.6million jackpot in 1997 . Last night angry villagers accused accountant of losing their life savings . Also emerged that Reeves not registered with Financial Conduct Authority . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Police investigating David Reeves, 68, after he confessed losses to clients . Clients thought to include several members of Tudor Tavern pub syndicate . Group pictured with champagne after winning £3.6million jackpot in 1997 . Last night angry villagers accused accountant of losing their life savings . Also emerged that Reeves not registered with Financial Conduct Authority .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Jonathan Fowler and Sarah Griffiths . PUBLISHED: . 07:47 EST, 1 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 08:32 EST, 1 August 2013 . A year ago, the world's largest particle collider made one of the greatest discoveries in the history of science, identifying what is believed to be the Higgs boson -- the long-sought maker of mass. Today, its computer screens are dark, the control desks unstaffed and the giant, supercooled tunnel empty of the crashing proton beams whose snapshots of the Big Bang helped flush out the elusive particle. But the silence is an illusion. Behind the scenes, work is pushing ahead to give the vast machine a mighty upgrade, enabling it to advance the frontiers of knowledge even farther. A worker stands below the Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS), a general-purpose detector at CERN's Large Hadron Collider, during maintenance works. Deep below the border between Switzerland and France, the tunnel stretches out of sight, decked with silver installations fit for a starship . The 27km circular lab, straddling the French-Swiss border 100metres underground, went offline in February for an 18-month overhaul. And when experiments resume in 2015, scientists at the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) will use its enhanced power to probe dark matter, dark energy and super symmetry -- ideas considered as wild as the Higgs boson was, half a century ago. As engineers focus on the technical mission, physicists are sifting through the mountains of data that the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) has churned out since 2010, for there could be more nuggets to find. Scientists look at a section of the LHC while it is switched off. A year ago, the world's largest particle collider made one of the greatest discoveries in the history of science, identifying what is believed to be the Higgs Boson -- the long-sought maker of mass . 'The things that are easy to spot have already been exploited, and now we're taking another look,' said Tiziano Camporesi of CERN, noting wryly that dealing with the unknown was, well, unknowable. 'We always say that astronomers have an easier task, because they can actually see what they're looking for!' The LHC's particle collisions transform energy into mass, the goal being to find fundamental particles in the sub-atomic debris that help us to understand the universe. A worker walks past the Compact Muon Solenoid - part of the LHC. The 27 kilometre circular lab went offline in February for an 18-month overhaul. When experiments resume in 2015, scientists at CERN will use its enhanced power to probe dark matter, dark energy and supersymmetry . At peak capacity, the 'old' LHC managed a mind-boggling 550 million collisions per second. 'We give the guys as many collisions as we can,' said Mike Lamont, head of its operating team. 'That's our bread and butter. Most of that stuff is not very interesting, so there are real challenges sorting out and throwing most of that away, and picking out the interesting stuff,' he explained in the tunnel, which mixes installations fit for a starship with the low-tech practicality of bicycles for inspection tours. CERN's supercomputers are programmed to identify within microseconds the collisions worth more analysis - chunks of a few hundred per second - before thousands of physicists from across the globe comb the results to advance our knowledge of matter. The LHC's computer screens are dark, but behind the scenes, work is pushing ahead to give the vast machine a mighty upgrade, enabling the collider to advance the frontiers of knowledge even farther . 'We want to understand how that behaves, why it sticks itself together into tiny things that we call atoms and nuclei at really small scales, into things that we call people and chairs and buildings at bigger scales, and then planets and solar systems, galaxies at larger scales,' said CERN spokesman James Gillies. CERN's work can bemuse beginners, but the researchers find ways to make it simple. 'Everybody knows what an electron is, especially if they put their finger in an electric socket,' joked Pierluigi Campana, whose team has just provided the most exhaustive confirmation to date of the Standard Model, the chief theoretical framework of particle physics conceived in the 1970s. At peak capacity, the 'old' LHC managed a mind-boggling 550 million collisions per second. 'We give the guys as many collisions as we can,' said Mike Lamont, head of its operating team. Here, an engineer observes the Compact Muon Solenoid . They achieved the most accurate measurement yet of a change in a particle called a Bs, showing that out of every billion, only a handful decay into smaller particles called muon, and do so in pairs. For the experts, that finding was almost as thrilling as tracking the Higgs boson -- nicknamed the God Particle. It was theorised in 1964 by British physicist Peter Higgs and others in an attempt to explain a nagging anomaly - why some particles have mass while others, such as light, have none. As engineers (pictured) focus on the technical mission, physicists are sifting through the mountains of data that the LHC has churned out since 2010, for there could be more nuggets to find . It is believed to act like a fork dipped . in syrup and held up in dusty air. While some dust slips through . cleanly, most gets sticky - in other words, acquires mass. With mass . comes gravity, which pulls particles together. The Standard Model is a trusty conceptual vehicle but it still lacks an explanation for gravity, nor does it account for dark matter and dark energy, which comprise most of the cosmos and whose existence is inferred from their impact on ordinary matter. Some physicists champion supersymmetry, the notion that there are novel particles which mirror each known particle. A worker rides his bike in a tunnel of the LHC. When it is back in business, the supercomputers are programmed to identify the collisions worth more analysis - chunks of a few hundred per second - before thousands of physicists from across the globe comb the results to advance our knowledge of matter . 'We have a theory that describes all the stuff around us, all the ordinary, visible matter that makes up the Universe. Except, the problem is, it doesn't. It makes up around five percent of the Universe,' said Gillies. The LHC replaced the Large Electron-Positron Collider (LEP), which ran from 1989 to 2000. I . It came online in 2008, but ran into problems, forcing a year-long refit. The LHC's particle collisions transform energy into mass, the goal being to find fundamental particles in the sub-atomic debris that help us to understand the universe. Here a scientist gestures in front of a diagram of one of the many goings on at the LHC . It went on to reach a collision level of eight teraelectron volts (TeV) -- an energy measure -- compared to the LEP's 0.2 TeV. After the 50 million Swiss franc ($54-million, million-euro) upgrade, the target is 14 TeV, meaning bigger bangs and clearer snapshots. "'Every time we pass a significant amount of data collected, someone will find an excuse to open a bottle of champagne," said physicist Joel Goldstein, glancing at a lab corner piled with empties."We're going to run out of space eventually!' The particle was theorised in 1964 by British physicist Peter Higgs and others in an attempt to explain a nagging anomaly - why some particles have mass while others, such as light, have none. The search more knowledge about the Higgs Boson will resume when the LHC opens again after its upgrade . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] The 27 km circular lab went offline . in February but will reopen in 2015 with more firepower to help scientists solve the mysteries of the universe . A year ago, the Large Hadron Collider made one of the greatest discoveries in the history of . science, identifying what is believed to be the Higgs boson . As engineers focus on the technical . mission, physicists are sifting through data that the mighty atom smasher has churned out since 2010 . [/SUMMARY]</s>

The 27 km circular lab went offline . in February but will reopen in 2015 with more firepower to help scientists solve the mysteries of the universe . A year ago, the Large Hadron Collider made one of the greatest discoveries in the history of . science, identifying what is believed to be the Higgs boson . As engineers focus on the technical . mission, physicists are sifting through data that the mighty atom smasher has churned out since 2010 .

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<s>[ARTICLE] A proposed new black and white flag for New Zealand has been compared to one that's flown by Islamic State militants. British comedian John Oliver drew similarities between the new design and the infamous ISIS flag, saying it could lead to future awkward situations for New Zealand's Prime Minister John Key. During his show on Sunday - Last Week Tonight with John Oliver - he continued to mock the proposed design, describing it as a 'flag of a vegetarian pirate ship'. Scroll down for video . The proposed new design for New Zealand's flag (right) has been compared to the black flag of ISIS (left) British comedian John Oliver (pictured) put forward his suggestion for an alternative design - one of a bundy-jumping sheep . Oliver further attempts to imitate Key's New Zealand accent, after showing a clip of the re-elected Prime Minister vowing to hold a referendum to change the flag in 2015. 'Key is now back in office and ready to tackle the most pressing issues facing the country,' Oliver said. 'He wants to change the New Zealand flag, or as they call it there, the "fleg". 'Now why's he going to do this? Well one reason might be that it looks too much like Australia's flag.' Another video is then shown of a radio interview with Key, who said: 'There's just a huge confusion factor...the number of times I'm in an international meeting and the number of times they sit me down in front of the Australian flag or the Australian area. It's not funny, it happens all the time.' The Australian flag (left) and is often confused with the New Zealand flag (right), according to New Zealand Prime Minister John Key . Oliver says if the proposed black and white New Zealand flag is approved, it could lead to future awkward situations for New Zealand's Prime Minister John Key . Re-elected New Zealand Prime Minister John Key . But Oliver warns of the repercussions of transforming New Zealand's predominately blue flag to the colours used by ISIS. 'If you think mistakenly being seated under the Australia's flag was bad, wait until they put you under the one for ISIS,' he said. Instead Oliver puts forward his suggestions, including a bungy-jumping sheep, as an alternative. The current New Zealand flag has the same Blue Ensign on the top left corner as Australia and is defaced with four red stars outlined in white representing the Crux Australis - also known as the Southern Cross. Australia's flag has a large white seven-pointed star, known as the Commonwealth Star, under the Union Jack. The Southern Cross constellation on the flag is made up of five white stars. The proposed new design has a silver fern which is the same trademark logo for the All Backs - New Zealand's beloved national rugby union team. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] John Oliver says New Zealand's new flag designs could be mistaken for the flag flown by Islamic State militants . New Zealand Prime Minister John Key hopes to change the current flag as it's often confused with Australia's flag . The new design has a silver fern which is the same trademark logo for the All Blacks . [/SUMMARY]</s>

John Oliver says New Zealand's new flag designs could be mistaken for the flag flown by Islamic State militants . New Zealand Prime Minister John Key hopes to change the current flag as it's often confused with Australia's flag . The new design has a silver fern which is the same trademark logo for the All Blacks .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- If it seems to you that there's a food safety crisis every other week, you're actually not paying close enough attention. Since the start of summer 2014 alone, the Food and Drug Administration has announced 37 different recalls, market alerts and safety withdrawals related to food, and the Food Safety and Inspection Service has issued 14. Some recalls result from mislabeling (such as undeclared ingredients like shellfish, milk, nuts, eggs or wheat gluten) or improper processing, while other recalled foods were contaminated with listeria, E. coli, salmonella or botulism. About 48 million people -- 1 in 6 Americans -- contract some form of food poisoning each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That's 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths that are, by the federal government's estimations, "largely preventable." At any given time the FDA is responsible for watching over some 167,000 domestic food facilities or farms and another 421,000 facilities or farms outside the United States, according to FDA officials. But there are only about 1,100 inspectors to oversee these facilities, officials told CNN in 2012. Tainted food and mislabeled food slip through the cracks all the time, and unwitting consumption can result in conditions ranging from stomach discomfort and fever to death from infection and allergic reactions. It's in a food producer's best interest to get a bad product off store shelves and alert consumers as swiftly as possible -- and it's the duty of the federal government to help minimize the risk to public safety. Often, their best course of collective action is a recall, but what does that actually mean? Who is looking out for your food safety? Prior to the passage of the Food Safety Modernization Act, the FDA could strongly suggest action, but had no authority to issue a mandatory recall of potentially harmful food. (For example, in the summer of 2010, consumers had to rely on suppliers' voluntary removal of nearly 500 million eggs from the marketplace in order to make sure that store supplies were free of salmonella. Still, an estimated 1,600 people nationwide were sickened by the eggs.) Since President Obama signed the law into effect in January 2011, there has only been one attempt by the FDA to enforce the mandatory recall of a food item: pet treats that were found to have been tainted with salmonella and allegedly caused several dogs to become ill. (In the end, the company was given a two-day notice to take corrective action -- which it did -- and enforcement wasn't needed.) But in the interim, hundreds of food items -- including 9 million pounds of adulterated meat, massive quantities of stone fruit and several dozen varieties of peanut butter -- have been voluntarily recalled by their producers. There are a few ways that can be set in motion. A producer may, through its own internal product testing or customer reports, find that there is an issue with its food and alert the FDA or FSIS. In other cases, testing by these agencies' inspectors may reveal an issue, which is communicated to the company. And in others, local and state health services will contact the CDC, which can identify patterns of foodborne illness using the FoodCORE system and in turn alert the FDA and FSIS. Foodborne Illness 101 . If the product is meat, poultry or egg-based, FSIS can form a committee to determine if a recall is needed. If so, agents collaborate with producers to make sure that the product is no longer available to the public, and that consumers have received adequate warning via the media and the FSIS website about what products are affected and what course of action to take. If a risk is posed, but a recall is not needed, FSIS will issue a public health alert. The FDA oversees all food that's not under FSIS jurisdiction and will evaluate each case to determine the threat it poses to public safety. In most cases, the agency will work with the producer to take corrective action at the facility level (cleaning machines and workrooms, safely removing contaminated ingredients and the like) and alert the public if needed. All cases are listed on the FDA website, but more severe ones will be communicated to the media via press release. But if the risk to public safety is found to be particularly high, the Food Safety Modernization Act allows the agency to shut down manufacturing until the threat has been contained. This power was enacted for the first time in November 2012, when a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Bredeney was linked to peanut butter produced by Sunland Inc. The FDA suspended the company's food facility registration, effectively prohibiting it from distributing food. Sunland subsequently declared bankruptcy and shut down production for good. Both FDA and FSIS use a three-tier classification for the threat posed by the food: . "Class I recall: a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death. "Class II recall: a situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote. "Class III recall: a situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product is not likely to cause adverse health consequences." So how does a reasonable consumer stay apprised of all these goings-on and avoid spending precious time making the rounds of governmental websites on a daily basis? Follow @FDArecalls on Twitter. The account posts the most recent additions to the recall list, and its sister account, @USDAFoodSafety shares a mix of FSIS recall news and food safety tips. If RSS is more your speed, the FDA and FSIS both offer newsfeeds, as well as e-mail blasts to keep you on top of your food safety game. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] 1 in 6 Americans will get food poisoning this year . According to the federal government, these illnesses are largely preventable . Recalls by federal agencies can help keep the public safe . Social media and newsfeeds can help you stay on top of food safety news . [/SUMMARY]</s>

1 in 6 Americans will get food poisoning this year . According to the federal government, these illnesses are largely preventable . Recalls by federal agencies can help keep the public safe . Social media and newsfeeds can help you stay on top of food safety news .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- A 7-year-old boy from El Paso, Texas, was gunned down across the border in the violent city of Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, a spokesman for the Chihuahua state attorney general's office told CNN Tuesday. Raul Xazziel Ramirez had been visiting his father in Juarez on Friday evening when unknown gunmen fired on their vehicle at a roundabout, spokesman Arturo Sandoval said. At least 18 rounds from a 9 mm weapon were shot at the white 2000 Geo Tracker driven by Ramirez's dad, Sandoval said. The father, Raul Ramirez Alvarado, 35, died in the driver's seat. The younger Raul escaped from the vehicle, but was apparently shot in the back, Sandoval said. The boy's body fell forward in front of the vehicle. The shooting happened just before 8 p.m. Friday. No arrests had been made as of Tuesday, the spokesman said. Raul Xazziel Ramirez was a third-grader at Glen Cove Elementary School in El Paso, Ysleta Independent School District spokeswoman Patricia Ayala told CNN. "It's a senseless tragedy that we're trying to come to terms with," she said. According to El Paso County records, Raul was just three weeks shy of his eighth birthday when he was killed. The boy lived with his aunt and uncle in El Paso, Ayala said. It was the first semester that Raul was registered with the district. Raul's classmates were spared the details of his death, but the school was nonetheless shocked at the boy's passing. Grief counselors were made available for both students and teachers, Ayala said. More than 2,200 killings have been recorded this year in Ciudad Juarez, out of a population of approximately 1.5 million people. A bloody turf war between warring drug cartels that started last year has made the city one of the most violent in the world. According to statistics from local prosecutors, Ciudad Juarez records about 10 murders a day. The bloodiest month this year has been September, with 476 killings reported. The violence has not spilled over significantly across the border to El Paso, but as Friday's shooting showed, the pain of one of the sister cities is shared by the other. Because of the ongoing investigation, Sandoval declined to say whether drug cartel activity was suspected in the killings of Raul and his father, but added that at least 90 percent of the city's homicides are drug-related. Raul was not the youngest victim slain this year. In early 2009, a 3-year-old girl was killed together with her father inside a vehicle that was targeted, Sandoval said. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] NEW: Raul Xazziel Ramirez was just three weeks shy of his eighth birthday, records show . Ramirez was killed Friday along with his father in Ciudad Juarez. The boy managed to escape the vehicle but was shot in the back, police say . More than 2,200 slain this year in Juarez; Ramirez was not the youngest . [/SUMMARY]</s>

NEW: Raul Xazziel Ramirez was just three weeks shy of his eighth birthday, records show . Ramirez was killed Friday along with his father in Ciudad Juarez. The boy managed to escape the vehicle but was shot in the back, police say . More than 2,200 slain this year in Juarez; Ramirez was not the youngest .

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<s>[ARTICLE] WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The Food and Drug Administration said Wednesday that it has stopped reviewing drug applications from an India-based pharmaceutical plant, alleging that officials there falsified data and test results in applications, some of which the agency has already approved. In its second action in six months against Ranbaxy's Paonta Sahib plant, the FDA invoked its Application Integrity Policy, which is usually invoked over concerns about the integrity of data in drug applications. In September, the FDA issued an import alert barring entry of generic drugs produced at the plant in northeastern India and two others owned by Ranbaxy. That order remains in effect. A man who answered the phone at the company's offices in Gurgaon, Haryana, India, said no one was available for comment. No one immediately answered an e-mail sent Wednesday to the company's U.S. corporate offices in Princeton, New Jersey. Under the Application Integrity Policy, the most recent action, the FDA has stopped all scientific review of any new or pending drug approval applications containing data from the Paonta Sahib plant. In a letter sent Wednesday to the company, the agency alleged that data submitted from the Ranbaxy plant contained falsified information -- including lies that safety tests were conducted, lies that drugs had been kept at room temperature when in fact they had been stored in refrigerators, and lies about the shelf life of some drugs. "Companies must provide truthful and accurate information in their marketing applications," said Dr. Janet Woodcock, director of the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, in a statement on the FDA Web site. "The American public expects and deserves no less." An investigation is under way, but the FDA said it has no evidence that drugs manufactured at the plant do not meet quality specifications. In a written statement e-mailed to CNN, a spokesperson said the company had just been notified of the action. "Ranbaxy will analyze the letter and other information fully and respond appropriately in a timely manner," it said. "The FDA has said it has no evidence the drugs on the market are substandard and also that they comply with specifications upon testing," it added. Deborah Autor, director of the drug evaluation center's Office of Compliance, said there is no reason to believe Ranbaxy drugs on U.S. shelves pose any safety threat. She said all 80 samples tested met application specifications. "We feel comfortable leaving those products on the U.S. market at this time," she said. The FDA said it has approved some 25 drug applications that contain data from Paonta Sahib. The applications affected by Wednesday's announcement are for approved drugs made for the U.S. market, drugs pending approval but not yet on the market, and certain drugs manufactured in Ranbaxy's Ohm Laboratories in New Jersey, which relied on data from the Paonta Sahib plant. Three generic drugs were produced at Ohm Laboratories: simvastatin (Zocor) and pravastatin (Pravachol), both cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins, and the antihistamine loratadine (Claritin). The four plants in India that make drugs approved for distribution in the United States have been inspected more than 20 times since 2005, the FDA said. The FDA advised patients to talk with their doctor before considering stopping any medications. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] FDA stops drug applications from India-based drug plant . Plant officials falsified data on applications, agency says . Official: No reason to believe company's drugs on U.S. shelves pose any safety threat . [/SUMMARY]</s>

FDA stops drug applications from India-based drug plant . Plant officials falsified data on applications, agency says . Official: No reason to believe company's drugs on U.S. shelves pose any safety threat .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (Health.com) -- It's definitely fall: Kids are back in school, football season has kicked off, and ragweed is blooming. While autumn means cooler temperatures and colorful leaves, it also means runny noses and red eyes for millions of Americans. Doctors recommend a management plan to help chronic allergy sufferers through the fall season. How do you enjoy the season without the side effects? "Find out what is causing your allergy symptoms," says Angel Waldron, a spokeswoman with the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). "Get with your doctor and have an allergy management plan." Health.com: Asthma action plan: What it is and why you need it . That management plan may include limiting your outdoor activities to times when the pollen count isn't at its peak, says Rebecca Piltch, MD, an allergy and asthma specialist in San Rafael, California. (It's usually highest between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m.) When you come back inside, change your shoes and clothes, says Neil Kao, MD, of the Allergic Disease and Asthma Center, in Greenville, South Carolina. Changing clothes "will help reduce the pollen that you are bringing in from outside, says Kao. "If you don't at least take off your shoes, you're tracking the pollen all over the house." Health.com: 15 hypoallergenic dogs and cats . And take a shower to wash any allergens off your body, Dr. Piltch says. Once inside, keep your windows closed, change your air filters, and run your air conditioner, Dr. Kao adds. For more severe allergies, over-the-counter and prescription medications can help. Dr. Kao also recommends nasal sprays, which he says are "simple and safe." "It's like washing your hands, except for your nose," he explains. Dr. Kao isn't expecting fall allergies in his home state, South Carolina, to be very bad -- a welcome change. "With all the rain we've been getting across the southeast, the temperatures have been getting lower and the rain has been washing the pollen out of the air," he says. That's probably good news for allergy sufferers in Greensboro, North Carolina. Last fall, the AAFA named it the allergy capital of the United States. The list is an annual research project that identifies the 100 most challenging places to live in the U.S. with allergies. Health.com: Cannot stop coughing? 8 causes of chronic cough . In 2008, Greensboro had higher-than-average pollen counts, its residents were taking more allergy medications, and the city didn't have enough allergists for its population, according to the report. Health.com: Heartburn or heart attack? How to tell the difference . But not all allergy sufferers in the Southeast will appreciate the rain. Some states, like Georgia, may have less pollen after days of flooding rains, but the extra dampness is the perfect climate for mold, a major fall allergy, Dr. Piltch says. Although the South suffers from weed and mold spore allergies in the fall, Gerald Kress, an executive with SDI Health, which operates Pollen.com, says the North and Northeast gets hit particularly hard by ragweed -- and 2009 is shaping up to be a banner year for ragweed pollen. In cities from Columbus, Ohio, to Bangor, Maine, the number of people being affected by allergies is up more than 50 percent over 2008. "It's been a better year for ragweed," Kress says. Usually the region gets more rain from hurricanes, but that hasn't happened this year. Kress expects the number of people suffering from autumn airborne allergies to increase between 2 and 5 percent over last year. "It's up 1.3 percent right now," he says. "We think we'll hit the forecast by end November." Enter to win a monthly Room Makeover Giveaway from MyHomeIdeas.com . Copyright Health Magazine 2009 . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Get with your doctor and have an allergy management plan, says expert . Limit outdoor activities; pollen is usually highest between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. Nasal sprays are "like washing your hands, except for your nose," says doctor . Flooded states, like Georgia, may have less pollen after recent rains . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Get with your doctor and have an allergy management plan, says expert . Limit outdoor activities; pollen is usually highest between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. Nasal sprays are "like washing your hands, except for your nose," says doctor . Flooded states, like Georgia, may have less pollen after recent rains .

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<s>[ARTICLE] The judge banned the parents from naming their daughter after the popular Nutella spread - and renamed her Ella instead . A French judge banned parents from naming their daughter Nutella - because it is the trademarked name of a chocolate spread - and renamed her Ella instead. After a newborn baby in Valenciennes was named after the spread, the judge ruled the parents' decision was not in the interest of the child. But in the absence of the parents, the judge chose to rename the girl Ella. 'The name ‘Nutella’ given to the child is the trade name of a spread,' the court ruled, according to La Voix Du Nord. 'And it is contrary to the child’s interest to have a name that can only lead to teasing or disparaging thoughts.' As the parents failed to appear in court on the appointed day in November last year the judge ordered the child, born on September 24, to be renamed Ella. And a second family, from Raismes, who named their child Fraise - or Strawberry - were told the name could ‘be the cause of mockery’ that ‘could have a negative impact on the child’. So they opted to used the name Fraisine, which was popular in the 19th century. In France, parents are free to choose the names of their children, but the registrar checks the name at the time the birth certificate is registered. If the chosen name seems contrary to the child's interest, the registrar must notify the prosecutor -who may then enter a family court order to change the name. The court ruled the parents' decision was against child's interests and would only lead to 'teasing'. File photo . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Judge said parents couldn't use trademarked name of a chocolate spread . Ruled decision was against child's interests and would lead to 'teasing' After parents failed to appear in court, the judge renamed her Ella . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Judge said parents couldn't use trademarked name of a chocolate spread . Ruled decision was against child's interests and would lead to 'teasing' After parents failed to appear in court, the judge renamed her Ella .

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<s>[ARTICLE] New York (CNN) -- A man who stabbed a New York City taxi driver three years ago after asking whether he was Muslim will serve 9½ years in prison. Michael Enright, 24, pleaded guilty two weeks ago to attempted murder in the second degree as a hate crime and assault in the first degree as a hate crime, the New York Supreme Court clerk's office said. Enright was sentenced Tuesday. In addition to his prison term, he must serve five years of post-release supervision, the clerk's office said. "This was a horrendous crime against an innocent New Yorker. The victim, a native of Bangladesh and the father of four children, has been working and living in our diverse city for nearly three decades. There is no place for bigotry in New York City." District Attorney Cyrus Vance said at Enright's guilty plea proceeding. The taxi driver, Ahmed Sharif, suffered slashes across the neck, face, shoulder and hand in the August 2010 attack, the New York Taxi Workers Alliance said. Enright made an eloquent statement to the court, blaming himself, taking responsibility for the crime and apologizing to the victim, his lawyer, Lawrence Fisher, told CNN on Wednesday. Fisher said he thought the sentence was "severe" for a case in which the victim was released from the hospital within hours. Prosecutors originally recommended 18 years in jail for Enright before dropping it to 9½ years. The minimum sentence is eight years, according to his lawyer. In previous court appearances, Enright's lawyer said his client suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder and alcoholism. After being released on bond with an ankle bracelet, Enright successfully completed both in- and out-patient alcohol rehabilitation, performed community service projects and attended Alcoholics Anonymous, where he became a lecturer and sponsor, according to Fisher. "He's made great strides and has been clean and sober for over two years since he's been released," Fisher said. According to Bhairavi Desai of the Taxi Workers Alliance, Enright, then 21, allegedly began conversing with Sharif before asking whether he was Muslim. Enright then cursed and allegedly shouted, "Assalamu alaikum, consider this a checkpoint." "Assalamu alaikum" is an Arabic greeting that means "peace be upon you." Sharif was then stabbed. Bleeding profusely, he stumbled out of his taxi and managed to flag down a police officer who arrested Enright, the union representative said. Enright, who was a student at the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan, had shot a film on American soldiers serving in Afghanistan, said the director of Intersections International, a nonprofit group that partially funded the trip. Enright was intoxicated the night of the arrest, according to police, who found an empty bottle of scotch in his backpack. The attack occurred amid public debate over plans to build an Islamic cultural center and mosque to be called Park51 two blocks from the site of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. CNN's Jessica Naziri and Ashley Fantz contributed to this report. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] NEW: Defendant took responsibility, apologized, his lawyer says . Michael Enright, 24, pleaded guilty two weeks ago to hate crime charges . Taxi driver Ahmed Sharif was slashed on his neck, face, shoulder and hand in 2010 . Enright's lawyer has said his client suffered from alcoholism and post-traumatic stress . [/SUMMARY]</s>

NEW: Defendant took responsibility, apologized, his lawyer says . Michael Enright, 24, pleaded guilty two weeks ago to hate crime charges . Taxi driver Ahmed Sharif was slashed on his neck, face, shoulder and hand in 2010 . Enright's lawyer has said his client suffered from alcoholism and post-traumatic stress .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- Benjamin and Kristi Strack lay dead on their bed. On the floor near them lay the bodies of three of their children, from 11 to 14 years old. There were no signs of trauma, no indication of toxins in the air. But beside each body there were cups with liquid inside. These details come from court documents obtained Thursday by CNN related to the deaths of the five Utah family members, documents that hint at a potentially deadly cocktail including the powerful prescription drug methadone. Based on this evidence and perhaps more, one of the court documents states that one detective on the case "believes the property and evidence described above is evidence of the crime or crimes of homicide." Authorities in Springville, Utah, acknowledged Thursday that the recently released information has "re-ignited interest" in the investigation into the Stracks, whose bodies were found September 27. "The various affidavits written so that officers could fully investigate this tragic event seem to have raised additional questions as to the events that occurred that night," the Utah city's public safety department said in a statement. Chief among those questions: Who is responsible for the deaths? And why did they die? There are no firm answers yet, though the court documents made public this week do shed some light on what authorities know and believe. Documents: Empty bottles of methadone, cold and flu meds . One of them describes how a biological son of Kristi Strack and the son's girlfriend noticed the house was unusually quiet that late September evening and that the master bedroom door had been locked. Once inside, they and eventually police officers came upon the eerie scene. The parents were in their bed, while the children were around it "covered in bedding up to their necks." "Officers reported there was a red liquid substance coming from the mouth of Kristi Strack," a police detective wrote in an affidavit for one search warrant. "All of the occupants of the home were non-responsive. Next to each of the victims was a cup/drink with a liquid inside." Detectives fairly quickly concluded the family members' deaths were due to "poisoning," though exactly what killed them hasn't been officially determined. The Springville public safety department said that might not be known until late November, when the state medical examiner is expected to release autopsies. The fire department has concluded, however, that "there was no carbon monoxide leak" and "no toxic levels of any kind inside the home," according to an affidavit. Everything in the home was found "to be in good working order." An affidavit for another search warrant, filed in early October, discussed other evidence found in and around the South Springville duplex. A black bag put in an outside trash can, for instance, contained "10 opened and empty boxes of nighttime cold and flu medication consistent with generic NyQuil" and "two empty boxes of allergy relief medication consistent with generic Benadryl." Inside the home, authorities found empty bottles of liquid methadone -- a synthetic narcotic used in the treatment of heroin addiction. The methadone bottles had come from a drug treatment clinic, authorities said. Methadone contributes to nearly 1 in 3 prescription painkiller deaths in the United States, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention findings from 2012. Police: 'Probable ... deaths were not accidental or natural' The official documents don't point a finger at any person, in particular, who might be behind the deaths. Yet authorities -- who continue to investigate, including looking intently at things likely a laptop computer and cell phones found at the Strack's home -- believe that the entire thing was intentional. The court documents note that it wouldn't be normal for the three children -- son Benson Strack,14; daughter Emery Strack, 12; and son Zion Strack, 11 -- to go to sleep inside their parents' bedroom, since they had their own rooms. And a police officer wrote, in one affidavit, that "with the placement of the bodies, it would appear somebody had to position the bodies after they were deceased." "It is probable that these death(s) were not accidental or natural in any way," the officer added. In a statement given Thursday to KSTU, another CNN affiliate, relatives of the Strack family said the release of the documents "was shocking to our family and unfortunately it begins to confirm our suspicions." The statement did not elaborate, beyond adding: "We are upset about this new information and are struggling as we are forced to relive this horrible tragedy." CNN's Holly Yan, Joe Sutton and Kate Conerly contributed to this report. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Two parents and three children are found dead in Utah . There were no signs of trauma, carbon monoxide or air toxins . Court documents say cups with liquid were by each of the bodies . Empty bottles of methadone, cold and flu medication found nearby . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Two parents and three children are found dead in Utah . There were no signs of trauma, carbon monoxide or air toxins . Court documents say cups with liquid were by each of the bodies . Empty bottles of methadone, cold and flu medication found nearby .

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<s>[ARTICLE] New Orleans, Louisiana (CNN) -- The Bush administration made a "fatal mistake" by talking up facts and figures without painting a broader picture of the obstacles in its widely criticized Hurricane Katrina response effort, ex-FEMA chief Michael Brown said Thursday. Brown told CNN's Anderson Cooper that the talking points he and other federal officials used at the time didn't tell the whole story. "They were factually correct, but weren't in context. We're moving all of this stuff in. We have teams here. Rescue teams are doing this," he said. "But we never explained to the people that it's not coming as fast as we want it to, and it's not enough, because of the number of people that were left behind in the aftermath of the storm." Not making that clear was a "fatal mistake," Brown said. "Had I said that at the time, I probably would have gotten the old hook and been pulled off the stage anyway, but the truth would have been out," he said. Speaking five years after the storm hit, Brown sharply criticized former Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff's handling of the situation. Chertoff had attended an avian flu convention amid the disaster. "Here is why that's so important. In the middle of any crisis," Brown said, "whether it's a natural disaster or man-made disaster, you need to have one person in charge. And that person needs to be on the ground with the team, understanding what's going on." The former FEMA head told CNN that he winced when President George Bush said the now infamous line, "Brownie, you're doing a heck of a job." "I knew the minute he said that, the media and everybody else would see a disconnect between what he was saying and what I was witnessing on the ground," Brown said. "That's the president's style. His attitude and demeanor is always one of being a cheerleader and trying to encourage people to keep moving. It was just the wrong time and the wrong place." Brown headed FEMA under the Bush administration and resigned in September 2005, two weeks after Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast and 10 days after President Bush famously complimented him. Chertoff was criticized by a House committee in 2006 for choosing Brown to lead the government response, despite inadequate training. "If I knew then what I know now about Mr. Brown's agenda, I would have done something different," Chertoff said. Hurricane Katrina's fifth anniversary is Sunday. Brown, who is now on KOA-850 AM in Denver, Colorado, was in New Orleans this week broadcasting his radio show. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Brown says officials should have acknowledged that aid was not arriving quickly enough . He also criticizes Homeland Security's handling of the storm . The former FEMA head says he winced when Bush said he was doing a "heck of a job" [/SUMMARY]</s>

Brown says officials should have acknowledged that aid was not arriving quickly enough . He also criticizes Homeland Security's handling of the storm . The former FEMA head says he winced when Bush said he was doing a "heck of a job"

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- The Gettysburg Address was a quick-hitting speech that was built to last. Length: A little over two minutes. Message: Stay the course of a difficult war. If Democracy won't work here, it won't work anywhere. Short enough to comfortably fit into a social media status box, and shared in its entirety hundreds of times every day, according to recent data from Facebook. Memorable phrases are quoted even more often. It has been 150 years since President Abraham Lincoln got up in front of thousands of people in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, to dedicate the Soldiers' National Cemetery at a turning point in the Civil War. His words are some of the most memorable in American history, forever stamping our collective minds with "four score and seven years ago," and "all men are created equal," and of course a "government of the people, by the people, for the people." Some of this wasn't really his coinage, but we'll get into that later. Politicians portrayed themselves differently in Lincoln's day, seeking to give a more powerful kind of impression, said Dennis Baron, a professor of English and linguistics at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. "If you did that today, people would think of you as somehow flowery and old-fashioned and ... why are you doing that?" The modern trend is for leaders to "play the folksy card," Baron said, portraying themselves as ordinary Joes and Janes who are exactly like you in every way -- except for the fact that they are hoping to achieve a position of immense power. Baron said the last president with an "oratorial" style -- on the whole -- was probably John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated 100 years and three days after the delivery of the Gettysburg Address. We still remember Kennedy's delivery of lines like, "Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country." Lincoln was able to get straight to the point and deliver a punchy speech in part because he came after Edward Everett's marathon presentation about the war, explains James Cornelius, curator of the Lincoln Collection in the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Lincoln had no speechwriter. Today, most politicians have at least some help preparing their words. Everett had been the main attraction, but Lincoln's speech started picking up steam afterward and seemed to "go viral" in the manner of its day. Newspapers wrote about the speech. In some cities, people could buy commemorative event pamphlets that contained the speech, and key phrases were incorporated into Lincoln's 1864 election posters and memorials after his death. Newspaper retracts editorial panning Gettysburg Address . Sound familiar? Cornelius said overall, Civil War-era America was a consumer-driven society that had a few things in common with our Internet-saturated world. One can only imagine the tweets that would have been written about such a speech in modern times. "OMG. Lincoln just said in two minutes what Everett tried to say in two hours. #NailedIt #Boom" Today, children learn the address in school, especially in Northern cities, and documentary guru Ken Burns is asking people to record themselves saying the speech from memory. Ken Burns: Learn the Gettysburg Address by heart . People also share the quotations on social media. Certain phrases seem to stick out, and Facebook numbers show which ones we like to share. We found that people in some states, like Delaware, were particularly fond of quoting the address and that different parts of the speech were more popular in some states than others. Here is a nonexhaustive rundown of some of the most popular phrases in the speech, in order of appearance. 'Four score and seven years ago' Pretty much everyone knows this part of the Gettysburg Address, even if they think a score is just something from sports. But no, in this case a score is 20 of something. Here, a span of 20 years. This line is a bit of an inside remark shared with the audience, believed by most historians to be a reference to Psalm 90:10, which most people of the day would know is an allusion to the human lifespan. "The days of our years are threescore years and 10," says the psalm. "And if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labor and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away." Cornelius said Lincoln used such phrasing as a subtle reminder that the nation was only a youthful 87 years old. Lincoln felt the United States was setting an example for the world, and he didn't want the experiment in democracy to fail. "He's a little bit worried that the nation might die at about the average lifespan that a human would," Cornelius said. "He's putting forth straightforward political terms in a poetic way." That, and people tend to remember the beginnings of speeches, Cornelius said. 'All men are created equal' More clever wordplay is at work in this famous quotation. "In his call for democracy and equality, (Lincoln) doesn't mention slavery, but everyone knew that was what he was talking about," Cornelius said. See what he did there? This phrase can be interpreted as both an allusion to the principles of the Declaration of Independence and also as a not-so-subtle jab at the institution of slavery. Little doubt exists that Lincoln opposed slavery, and in fact loathed it, Cornelius said. Slavery was at the heart of the war. Lincoln struggled with how to go about eliminating it, and had to be convinced by legal thinkers and abolitionists that he had the governmental power to tackle it. 'These dead shall not have died in vain' Something about this part of the speech may be touching a nerve somewhere. This part was the second-most-mentioned phrase in the entire speech, rivaling "four score and seven years ago" in popularity, despite the fact that it's not a particularly well-known part of the Gettysburg Address. But Lincoln can't take full credit for this phrase, Cornelius said, because it was a fairly common expression used in the parlance of war. It speaks to a need for soldiers' deaths to mean something, if they must occur -- a timeless desire we echo today. How tech preserves the Gettysburg Address . "This is always a problem in warfare. Why should any other people die? There is always a percentage of the population that will make that argument at a certain point. Lincoln's contrary point was that they died defending you. They felt so strongly about the right of the cause. They felt so strongly about preserving the union and ending slavery that you should not let their efforts carry into the wind. You should continue on and further this effort." 'This nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom' This phrase was mentioned by many readers who commented on this story. For some, it has become a point of political contention due to the presence of the words "under God." There are five versions of the speech, and one of them omits those two words. Obama stands out from the Gettysburg crowd . Another slightly earlier portion of the speech was also frequently cited: "It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us." The takeaway there is persistence in the face of adversity. 'Government of the people, by the people, for the people' This famous phrase, as well as the few words immediately before and after it, got lots of mentions on Facebook. Baron pointed out that anything at the end or beginning of a speech is probably automatically more memorable. It doesn't hurt if a speech is structured to enhance this effect, either. It's such a beloved word grouping that numerous people have borrowed it, massaged it and restated it with a slightly different twist, like a game of telephone in an era without telephones. Cornelius said historians trace this part back to Daniel Webster, a senator and U.S. secretary of state before the Civil War. Webster's words were, "The people's government, made for the people, made by the people and answerable to the people." It was later repurposed by the abolitionist minister Theodore Parker, who talked about a "government of all the people, by all the people, for all the people." Even Lincoln himself is said to have used a version of the phrase in a letter 20 years before the address, Cornelius said. Cornelius said the key to the power of this phrase is in its skillful use of repetition. The point of "people" is driven straight into your mind by its frequent mention. That's why so many people have recycled it over the years. Fast-forward to today, and we're still sharing all the phrases above. Cornelius said one can see the endurance of Lincoln's speaking legacy by taking a stroll into the Lincoln library's gift shop, where you can pick up your very own T-shirt with a Lincoln quotation on it. One recently released item has the whole text printed on it. Lincoln's speech endures like few others, especially in our everyman-politician era. Maybe that's why people can't help but post the speech on social media, 150 years after the fact. Why do you think the Gettysburg Address endures today, and why do some lines seem to resonate more with different places and groups in the United States? Share your thoughts in the comments below. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] President Abraham Lincoln delivered Gettysburg Address at turning point in Civil War . Meant to mobilize nation in time of crisis, speech went viral in its day . In modern times, entire speech is shared on social media and some parts more than others . [/SUMMARY]</s>

President Abraham Lincoln delivered Gettysburg Address at turning point in Civil War . Meant to mobilize nation in time of crisis, speech went viral in its day . In modern times, entire speech is shared on social media and some parts more than others .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Jakarta, Indonesia (CNN) -- Indonesia's latest attempt to charge a fiery Islamic cleric on terrorism charges was swiftly adjourned moments after it started in a south Jakarta court Thursday. Abu Bakar Ba'asyir could face the death penalty under fresh charges, which include planning and/or inciting a terrorist act and involvement in a paramilitary training camp discovered last February in Aceh province. However, proceedings were postponed to Monday after his lawyer argued that they were not given enough time to respond to the court summons. The 72-year-old waved and smiled to hundreds of his supporters, who chanted "God is great." Ba'asyir was first detained in August for suspected links to a militant training camp raided by authorities in Aceh in early 2010. Police said the suspect and his organization, the Jamaat Tawhid Anshoru or JAT, were involved in setting up the camp. The militants were preparing to launch attacks similar to the one in Mumbai 2008, and assassination attempts on Indonesian government officials, authorities have said. But the lawyers have called the case weak and a fabrication. This was going to be his third trial. In the first two, prosecutors tried to link the elderly cleric to the 2002 bombings in Bali and the 2003 hotel bomb attack in Jakarta. The courts found him guilty of minor charges, and sentenced him to 25 months. He was released in June 2006. "This trial is very significant, because if the Indonesian government failed to provide a strong unshakable court evidence, they will use this as a weapon, an ammunition to gain more recruits," said Noor Huda, founder of Jakarta's Institute of International Peace Building, which aims to reform radical inmates. "Ba'asyir is clearly a symbol, he gains certain level of celebrity among jihadist, he's very strong, he has a strong charisma to build networks." Ba'asyir is known for his fiery rhetoric. He was accused of being the spiritual leader of Indonesia's homegrown terror network, Jemaah Islamiyah, which inspired many of those involved in the bombings . He has denied all the allegations and often blamed a U.S.-led conspiracy to put him behind bars. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Abu Bakar Ba'asyir faces the death penalty if found guilty . Charges include planning and inciting a terrorist act . He is also accused of taking part in a paramilitary training camp . He denies all the allegations . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Abu Bakar Ba'asyir faces the death penalty if found guilty . Charges include planning and inciting a terrorist act . He is also accused of taking part in a paramilitary training camp . He denies all the allegations .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Harare, Zimbabwe (CNN) -- More than 80 elephants in Zimbabwe have been poisoned with cyanide -- the latest victims of poachers keen to feed soaring global demand for illegally trafficked ivory. Since May, the carcasses of 87 elephants have been discovered in Hwange National Park, said Caroline Washaya-Moyo, public relations manager for Zimbabwe's Parks and Wildlife Management Authority. The poachers poisoned natural salt licks to bring down the mighty beasts, she said Wednesday. The parks authority has so far recovered 51 tusks, she said -- leaving 123 in the hands of the poachers. Zimbabwe's newly appointed Environment Minister Saviour Kasukuwere told CNN that he would push for stiffer jail penalties to root out poaching in the wildlife-rich African nation. "That will be one of my missions in the new parliament, given the recent case of elephants which were poisoned by poachers," said Kasukuwere, who has twice visited the park in recent days to see the impact of the poisoning. Last month authorities arrested five suspected poachers after 41 elephants were found dead in the park, which is about 800 kilometers (500 miles) southwest of Harare, not far from Zimbabwe's border with Zambia. The other carcasses have been discovered since then, Washaya-Moyo said. Three of those arrested have been convicted and are due to be sentenced this week, she said. Two investigations are ongoing. Poaching stinks... and now dogs are sniffing it out . Call for tougher action . The Zimbabwe Conservation Task Force, an anti-poaching organization, said the latest elephant deaths could have been avoided if Harare was tougher on those convicted of poaching. "They need to be given some extensive jail time. If it was, they wouldn't carry on doing it," said the organization's chairman, Johnny Rodrigues. He accused Zimbabwe of not doing enough to clamp down on poachers and of creating an impression that the country had more elephants than it can sustain. "They want permission from CITES to sell the ivory they have in stock and they think they will get it if there are too many elephants here," Rodrigues said, referring to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. CITES, also known as the Washington Convention, aims to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants is kept to a minimum to avoiding threatening their existence. Rodrigues puts the country's elephant population at around 35,000, while Washaya-Moyo said it was about 45,000. The use of cyanide could also have a wider impact, Rodrigues said. "When other animals and birds feed on the rotting elephant carcasses, they will also die from the poison. Hundreds of animals are now at risk," he said. The police suspect there could be more elephant carcasses in the park that have not yet been discovered, he added. The Parks and Wildlife Management Authority warned that wildlife poaching syndicates in Zimbabwe "have become sophisticated and need appropriate responses to effectively deal with them." 'Killed in record numbers' The International Fund for Animal Welfare and the WWF conservation group said that a recent surge in the illicit ivory trade has resulted in the killing of 30,000 African elephants annually in recent years. The International Fund for Animal Welfare, which published a major study into the illegal wildlife trade in June, calculates that an elephant loses its life to poaching on average every 15 minutes. "Elephants were killed for their ivory in record numbers in 2011 and 2012, and some rhinoceros subspecies have become extinct or are on the verge of extinction," it said. "Rangers are regularly killed by poachers, and some of the world's poorest countries continue to see their wildlife decimated for the black market in wild animals and parts. Meanwhile, the profits realized from the illegal trade in wildlife have surged to levels once reserved for legally traded precious metals. "Criminal and violent groups around the world have become the main actors exploiting this global industry." Elephants under siege . Demand in Asia, United States . Much of the demand for ivory, as well as rhinoceros horn, is in Asia, and particularly China, where these items are used in traditional medicines and handicraft products, the report said. The United States is widely considered to be the second-largest destination for illegally trafficked wildlife in the world, it said, with the European Union third. Authorities in the United States have spoken out against the illegal trade in recent weeks. Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell announced this month that nearly six tons of elephant ivory seized by U.S. wildlife inspectors would be destroyed to highlight the issue. "Rising demand for ivory is fueling a renewed and horrific slaughter of elephants in Africa, threatening remaining populations across the continent," Jewell said. "We will continue to work aggressively with the departments of Justice and State, as well as with international law enforcement agencies, to disrupt and prosecute criminals who traffic in ivory, and we encourage other nations to join us in that effort." The ivory stockpile, which includes whole tusks as well as smaller carvings and jewelry, has been kept at a secure site in Colorado, where it will be crushed and destroyed next month. Commercial ivory trade has been banned in the United States since 1989. The Clinton Foundation is also working with conservation groups to try to halt the gruesome trade in tusks, by combating poaching and trafficking, and by educating consumers so they no longer buy ivory. Chelsea Clinton wrote last month that elephant poaching had reached alarmingly high levels -- and was an issue with implications for global society. "This is not just an ecological disaster; it is an economic and security threat as well," she said. "Tourism, a vital source of income for many of the most-affected African countries, is threatened if wildlife preserves are depopulated. "The overall black market for illegal wildlife trade has become the fourth most lucrative criminal activity internationally, after drugs, counterfeit goods and human trafficking." CNN's Laura Smith-Spark wrote and reported in London and journalist Columbus S. Mavhunga in Harare. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Poachers have used cyanide to kill more than 80 elephants in Zimbabwe, park official says . The poachers poisoned natural salt licks in Hwange National Park, official says . Environment minister says he will push for tougher penalties for ivory poachers . Conservationists say record numbers of elephants are dying to meet soaring demand . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Poachers have used cyanide to kill more than 80 elephants in Zimbabwe, park official says . The poachers poisoned natural salt licks in Hwange National Park, official says . Environment minister says he will push for tougher penalties for ivory poachers . Conservationists say record numbers of elephants are dying to meet soaring demand .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Luke Garratt . PUBLISHED: . 06:14 EST, 1 March 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 10:02 EST, 1 March 2014 . This hilarious video shows how 'simples' it is to make a meerkat laugh - by tickling its tummy. The meerkat - named Alexander after the popular Russian critter from the TV advert - was filmed laughing with pleasure at Whitehouse Farm Centre near Morpeth, Northumberland. His keepers regularly stroke his and his fellow meerkats' stomachs - causing them to make a giggle-like sound. Scroll down for video . Cuddly critter: Alexander the meerkat, and the other meerkats he shares his space with at the Northumberland farm, love being tickled by the people who work there . Meerkats talk to eachother using a series of purrs and throat noises, that can be heard when Alexander is being tickled . Staff member Karen Lovatt said the ticklish creatures are spreading the laughter and sending visitors into stitches. She said: 'Meerkats are very vocal and they do tend to make noise. 'They all have their own character, but they all definitely like being tickled.' Whenever the keeper of the farm stops tickling, the meerkat appears to grapple them with its tiny hands, almost as if it's asking for more . Alexander the meerkat appears to be an adult sized meerkat. Infants of the species are often a lot smaller and cling to their mothers for protection . Meerkats are squirrel-sized group animals, which are part of the mongoose family. They are mostly indigenous to desert areas of Africa, and are famous for their upright posture, which they use to gaze of the plains where they live and stay alert for predators. The tunnel-dwellers have a varied diet of lizards, birds, insects and fruit, and can be trained as rodent-catchers due to their skills at hunting. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Meerkats are tunnel-dwelling animals indigenous to African plains . They are good hunters, and can be trained by humans to catch rodents . They communicate with purring sounds, as shown in the video . Zoo keeper says meerkats love being tickled and this one appears to laugh with pleasure when his stomach is rubbed . The meerkats at the Northumberland farm centre 'all have personalities' [/SUMMARY]</s>

Meerkats are tunnel-dwelling animals indigenous to African plains . They are good hunters, and can be trained by humans to catch rodents . They communicate with purring sounds, as shown in the video . Zoo keeper says meerkats love being tickled and this one appears to laugh with pleasure when his stomach is rubbed . The meerkats at the Northumberland farm centre 'all have personalities'

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Luke Garratt . CCTV has been released of the shocking moments when a gang terrorised post office staff with a gun and a knife in a daylight raid on the £20,000 contents of a security van. The footage shows two masked robbers armed with a gun and a knife entering a post office in Halton, West Yorkshire just after a security van arrives to replenish the cash machine. The members of the gang who took the cash box from the post office worker have now been jailed for a total of 40 years. Scroll down for video... The members of the gang who carried out the terrifying daylight raid were all eventually caught thanks to CCTV footage and the safeguards of the cash box they stole . Throughout the whole ordeal, the terrified guard and post office staff are crammed into a corner as the masked men point the knife and handgun at them. The they appear to lead the helmet-wearing post office worker who was delivering the cash box outside, before heading back to their car. A short clip at the end of the footage, taken from the secure van, shows the men calmly get back into a silver Vauxhall with fake number plates and and speed away with the cash box. The large man wielding the knife in the footage is Ryan Patterson, 29, one of three men who was sentenced to jail at Leeds Crown Court, alongside Matthew Richardson, 29, and Gavin Ross, 28. The post office worker calmly leaves his secure van to replenish the cash inside the cash machine, unaware that his arrival was being watched . The members of the gang run from their silver Vauxhall into the store, one brandishing a knife and the other armed with a gun . The court heard the three men were part of a gang that committed two 'callous' crimes. First was the post office robbery, then afterwards came an unsuccessful attempt to attach a cashpoint in a shop to the back of a Honda and drive it away. Footage shows the thieves burst into the store, manhandle the staff, and then wreck parts of the store to make way for a cable that they attach to the ATM. However, when the cable breaks, the thieves have to make a run for it empty handed, simply driving away in their car. The gun wielding member of the gang bursts through the door moments after the cash box delivery worker enters, hitting him with the door and knocking aside the cash box he is carrying . The thieves pick up the cash box as they cram the post office workers to the back of the store by waving their weapons around . Ryan Patterson, jailed for 11 years and 3 months . Gavin Ross, who was jailed for 18 years . Matthew Richardson, jailed for 11 years . As with the post office crime, the robbers were armed, but this time they were brandishing machetes. Leeds Crown Court, heard the raid on the post office left staff so traumatised they now have trouble sleeping and feel stresed and anxious every time cash is now delivered or picked up from the premises. His Honour Judge Tom Bayliss QC said: 'This I make clear is the human costs of crimes such as this. 'Post offices provide a valuable service to the whole community. Communities rely on post offices. 'Those who work in them and deliver to them are vulnerable. The members of the gang then lead the helmet-wearing post office worker out of the store, forcing him to walk in front of them . The thief with the gun continues to lead the helmet-wearing member of the post office staff to his van, to continue their robbery . The gang members briefly stop in behind the secure van before making good their escape . The gang members are briefly caught on the secure truck's internal CCTV before they enter their silver Vauxhall and speed away . 'These were very well planned robberies, each participant played an important, valid and, no doubt pre-determined role.' David Gordon, prosecuting, told the court, that two of the robbers entered the post office, where there was also the post master, a member of staff and an elderly customer. Mr Gordon said: 'Both masked men, one of a distinctive tall and large build, were armed, one with a handgun and the other with a knife. 'Patterson was the large man. He had the knife. 'The security guard was threatened with the gun.' The guard was unable to open the box so the gang took it, they tried to get cash from the van, but didn’t suceed, before 'making good' their getaway. Not long after police were alerted to the Vauxhall, which had been dumped nearby. Mr Gordon said: 'By the time police arrived in Whitkirk the security box had been damaged and the money taken from inside.' He told the court that a security device in the box had been activated when they opened it and had stained the banknotes with blue dye. Scroll down for video... Members of the gang also faced charges for a failed raid on Osmondthorpe post office after they successfully robbed a post office . They then drag the cable into the store from the car, looking for the shops cashpoint . They run through the store brandishing machetes (or large knives) and threatening the staff inside . It was when cops investigated the car and its purchase that they made a connection to Ross through phone records. When they went to his home they found several bills stained with dye. They same dye appeared on a shirt of Patterson’s when he was arrested just days after the robbery.Mr Gordon said: . 'Patterson was also seen in Asda stores in the days following the robbery apparently at cash tills at which subsequently a significant number of blue bank notes were uncovered.' By the time of the attempted ATM robbery, 6 January 2013, Patterson, of Leeds, was in custody. They tip over one of the store's racks of produce to make room for the cable that is attached to their car . While one member is trashing the store to make way for a cable, the other decides he is going to manhandle the employee, pulling the employee's top over his head . The thieves attach the cable to the ATM before running it back through to their car . Following the failed robbery Ross was linked to the purchase of the car by phone records and Richardson took delivery of the vehicle. The court heard that Richardson told a sales assistant if anyone asked who bought the car she should say a 'black lad' did. All three men were arrested after their respective crimes and later charged with conspiracy to commit robbery. While Patterson and Richardson pleaded guilty to the charge, Ross was found guilty at trial. Ross was also sentenced for producing cannabis whilst on a suspended sentence for supplying cannabis. Richardson was also sentenced for his involvment in yet another masked robbery, this time at a dairy warehouse. The cable snaps as they attempt to drive away with the ATM, leaving their robbery unsuccessful . Before they leave, one of the thieves steals something from behind the counter . The thieves make a dash for it, after being unsuccessful in their robbery . Ross was jailed for a total of 18 years, Richardson for a total of 11 years and four months and Patterson for 11 years and three months. All three men have extensive criminal records. Detective Inspector Richard Holmes from West Yorkshire police said: 'These were very serious offences committed by offenders who thought nothing of threatening innocent people with weapons including a gun and knives. 'They were terrifying ordeals for the victims and witnesses involved who, despite the trauma they suffered, co-operated fully with the investigation that brought these men to justice. 'The significant sentences they have received reflect the seriousness with which the courts treat offences of this nature. 'This case should serve to remind people that the police will leave no stone unturned when it comes to tracking down and convicting offenders such as these.' [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Gang jailed for post office raid and failed theft of a cash machine . First robbery took place in post office where the thieves manhandle staff . They brandished a knife and a gun and stole a cash box from a secure van . Second robbery involved thieves trying to drag an ATM out of a store . But the cable tied to their getaway car snapped . Thieves from West Yorkshire were jailed for 40 years . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Gang jailed for post office raid and failed theft of a cash machine . First robbery took place in post office where the thieves manhandle staff . They brandished a knife and a gun and stole a cash box from a secure van . Second robbery involved thieves trying to drag an ATM out of a store . But the cable tied to their getaway car snapped . Thieves from West Yorkshire were jailed for 40 years .

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<s>[ARTICLE] The Football League has announced it will use vanishing spray in all of its competitions from January 1. The product, which was debuted in the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, has been used in the Premier League and Champions League this season, but only on a trial basis by the Football League in the early rounds of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy. However after successful feedback, the governing body has decided to implement it into Sky Bet Championship, League One, League Two, Capital One Cup and Johnstone's Paint Trophy from the start of 2015. Referee Michael Oliver uses vanishing spray to mark a Manchester City free-kick against Arsenal . The product was used successfully by officials at last summer's World Cup in Brazil . A Football League statement read: 'The Football League is to introduce the use of vanishing spray by referees into its competitions from January 1, 2015 following a successful trial in the early rounds of this season's Johnstone's Paint Trophy. 'Having received positive feedback from clubs, referees and supporters, The League has instructed the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) to begin using the product in all matches played in the Sky Bet Football League, Capital One Cup and Johnstone's Paint Trophy from the mid-point of the current campaign.' The spray is also being used in the Champions League with Cuneyt Cakir pictured using it at the Allianz Arena . Premier League referee Jon Moss managed to spray himself and Arsenal's Santi Cazorla in the face with his . Meanwhile the climax to the 2014/15 Football League campaign will be staggered across the weekend of May 2/3 to ensure all three divisions are showcased. The final round of the Championship will kick-off on Saturday May 2 at 12.15pm, League One will close at 3pm that afternoon while teams in the bottom tier will play their final game 24 hours later on May 3. The league has also confirmed the start date for the 2015/16 campaign as August 8. Derby County's players will be hoping they're still top of the Championship when it ends on Saturday May 2 . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Vanishing spray is used to by referees to mark free-kicks and walls . It was used at the World Cup and is now seen in the Premier League and Champions League . The Football League will use it in all competitions from January 1 . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Vanishing spray is used to by referees to mark free-kicks and walls . It was used at the World Cup and is now seen in the Premier League and Champions League . The Football League will use it in all competitions from January 1 .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Meghan Keneally and Ian Garland . PUBLISHED: . 17:02 EST, 7 June 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 02:02 EST, 8 June 2012 . With a little help . from Barbara Walters, one of Syrian President Bashar al-Assads close . aides was admitted into Columbia University's prestigious international . affairs program. In a string of leaked emails between Sheherazad Jafaari . and the celebrated broadcaster, Ms Walters, 82, promised to her help . the 22-year-old secure a job on Piers Morgan's CNN show and win a place . at Columbia University. Apparently only Columbia took the bait. 'Ms. Jaafari was admitted based . solely on the submitted application materials,' associate Columbia dean . Jesse Gale said in response to the controversy surrounding her . acceptance. Ms Jafaari, whose father is Syria's . U.N. ambassador, was one of Assad's closest advisers and one one of . three women revealed in an earlier leak to have sent lovestruck emails . to the dictator. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . Walters grew close to President Assad's aide Sheherazad Jaafari while organizing the interview, and later emailed contacts at CNN and Columbia University to help her comely new friend . Making headlines: Barbara Walters was the first and only American journalist to interview Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December in the midst of violent uprisings in his country that have left thousands dead . In one email, Ms Walters told 'Sherry' how she had written to CNN host Piers Morgan and his top producer to . 'say how terrific you are' in hopes of helping her get a job at Piers . Morgan Tonight. The young woman responded, writing 'You can never be a better mom to your adopted child (me).' Messages leaked by Syrian rebels in March show her asking another of Mr Assad's advisers to tell him: 'I love him so so so much and that I miss him.' The leak revealed flirtatious and suggestive emails from three admirers, including a provocative photograph of an unknown woman in white lingerie. Mrs Walters first met Ms Jaafari when the young woman's father hosted a cocktail party in his New York apartment in March 2011. '(Ms Jaafari) was bragging that they . had a great relationship after she came to her house for a cocktail . party,' a diplomatic source told the newspaper. The New York Post reports that the two women bonded that evening, and an unidentified diplomatic source said that the then-21-year-old 'was bragging that they had a great relationship after she came to her house for a cocktail party'. That connection came in handy when . the veteran reporter began dealing with Ms Jaafari on a regular basis . leading up the ABC News' exclusive televised interview with the Syrian . leader. In the interview, Ms Walters pressed . the president about the thousands of deaths of Syrian citizens and he . denied having issued any formal command for such force. Ms Walters and Jaafari continued to talk via email long after the interview aired . The Telegraph, . who published the most recent batch of hacked emails between Ms Walters . and Ms Jaafari, reported that the interview was received poorly by . Syrian government officials because it ended up being more harsh on . Assad than they originally expected. Shortly after, Ms Jaafari emailed Ms Walters in a panic, writing that she was 'in so much trouble' over the interview. A . few weeks  later, Ms Jaafari had determined that it was time for her to . get out of Syria and join her father in the U.S.- all the while . remaining extremely loyal to Assad, who she called 'the Dude'. In other . emails obtained by The Guardian in March, Ms Jaafari wrote that 'this man is loved by his people'. Upon her move from Syria, Ms Jaafari . applied to Columbia University's School of International and Public . Affairs, and hope to translate her time working as a press aide to Assad . into a staff position at a major American news outlet. Ms Walters immediately dismissed any . talk of her working for ABC since it would be a breach of journalistic . ethics. Instead, she offered to reach out on behalf of the 'dear girl'. Walters signed emails 'hugs' and 'love' The pair appear extremely close, with . Ms Walters signing her emails with ‘hugs’ and ‘love’ and Ms Jaafari . promising to bring back jewellery from Syria for her so-called adoptive . mother. Their email exchange was obtained by Syrian opposition forces who then passed them on to The Telegraph. Ms Walters emailed Columbia Journalism . School professor Richard Wald, former president of NBC News and vice . president of ABC News, to sing Ms Jaafari's praises. 'She is brilliant, beautiful, speaks five languages. Anything you can do to help?' Ms Walters wrote at the end of January. Mr . Wald responded that while his position at the Journalism School is . unconnected to the School of International and Public Affairs, he would . do his best to help, saying that 'through the Admissions Office network, . I will get them to give her special attention. I am sure they will take . her.' Now Columbia is saying that while she was accepted, Mr Wald's intervention- if any- had nothing to do with it. 'We cannot comment on an individual applicant’s materials, which are confidential,' Ms Gale said. Mr Wald's son, Jonathan Wald, is the . executive producer of Piers Morgan Tonight, was also the recipient of an . email from Ms Walters. She . told Ms Jaafari that she wrote to both Jonathan Wald and Piers Morgan . on her behalf and passed along her resume for their consideration, even . though she was unsure if they had any availability. That specific email . was not released. Neither Ms Walters nor Ms Jaafari heard back from CNN or the younger Mr Wald. In the wake of the emails, Ms Walters released a statement expressing her 'regret' for the questionable decision. 'In . the aftermath (of the Assad interview), Ms Jaafari returned to the US . and contacted me looking for a job. I told her that was a serious . conflict of interest and that we would not hire her,' Ms Walters said in . the statement. During her initial response to the . allegations, Ms Walters did not know that the young woman had, in fact, . been accepted to the program, but she still expressed her regret. 'I did offer to mention her to . contacts at another media organisation and in academia, though she . didn't get a job or into school. In retrospect, I realise that this . created a conflict and I regret that.' WATCH THE INTERVIEW HERE . video platform . video management . video solutions . video player . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Leaked emails Walters promised to help Sheherazad Jafaari, 22, land a job on Morgan's CNN show and a place at Columbia University . Jafaari called broadcaster 'my adoptive mom' in chummy exchanges . One of Assad's closest advisors, Jafaari referred to the dictator as 'the dude' and sent him lovestruck emails . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Leaked emails Walters promised to help Sheherazad Jafaari, 22, land a job on Morgan's CNN show and a place at Columbia University . Jafaari called broadcaster 'my adoptive mom' in chummy exchanges . One of Assad's closest advisors, Jafaari referred to the dictator as 'the dude' and sent him lovestruck emails .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- The Federal Communications Commission on Tuesday approved "high-level rules of the road" designed to ensure that internet providers grant everyone equal access to the Web. But the 3-2 vote immediately came under attack from both flanks, with internet-freedom advocates saying the new rules don't go far enough and critics saying the government should stay out of online business altogether. In announcing the proposed rules this month, FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski said they would require high-speed internet providers to treat all types of Web content equally. The rules are designed to, in effect, keep the companies that own the internet's real-world infrastructure from slowing down some types of websites or apps -- say, those belonging to a competitor -- or speeding up others for high-paying clients. For average internet users, the vote affects whether government will guarantee they'll continue to have access to all Web content, regardless of their internet provider's wishes, and whether they'll get that content as quickly as businesses or individuals able to pay more for it. The commission's agenda said the vote addressed "basic rules of the road to preserve the open internet as a platform for innovation, investment, competition and free expression." Web freedom advocates argue the vote doesn't do that. Commissioner Michael Copps, a Democrat, signed off on the rules but called them only a "first step in the right direction." "In my book, today's action could have, and should have, gone further," he said. "Going as far as I would have liked was, however, not in the cards." For example, he said, the rules won't absolutely prevent broadband providers from "pay for priority" -- giving faster service to those able to pay for it, or to one favored business over another. Instead, the regulations say those practices "generally violate" nondiscrimination rules. The vote was along party lines, with the commission's three Democrats voting to "concur" with the rules and its two Republicans voting against them. Commissioner Robert McDowell, a Republican, called the vote a "radical step" and said it puts the FCC "on a collision course" with the courts, which he predicted will throw the rules out. "The FCC is not Congress," he said. "We cannot make laws." Republicans have largely argued the government has no right to interfere with business practices online. McDowell said "nothing is broken in the internet-access market that needs fixing." President Barack Obama, in a written statement, called the rules an important part of his administration's goal of advancing "American innovation, economic growth and job creation." "Today's decision will help preserve the free and open nature of the Internet while encouraging innovation, protecting consumer choice, and defending free speech," Obama said. As a candidate, Obama pledged to support open-internet policies. Although the commission approved the rules, Congress could still act to amend or weaken them. Members of the House and Senate, from both sides of the aisle, have expressed concerns for different reasons. Internet proposal sets off political firestorm . Lawmakers already are considering legislation that would, in effect, repeal the rules. And at least one is threatening to cut off funding to the FCC to implement the rules. The proposal also doesn't set the same set of rules for mobile communications as it does for Web-based ones. So, the rules protecting information on a home computer might not keep the same data free on a mobile phone. Sen. Al Franken, a Minnesota Democrat and one of Congress' most vocal net-neutrality advocates, calls the issue "the most important free-speech issue of our time." In a column Monday for The Huffington Post, Franken said some of the current proposal's language could actually weaken protections. "(T)his Tuesday, when the FCC meets to discuss this badly flawed proposal, I'll be watching," he wrote. "If they approve it as is, I'll be outraged. And you should be, too." Copps, however, said that "if vigilantly and vigorously implemented by the commission -- and if upheld by the courts -- it could represent an important milestone in the ongoing struggle to safeguard the awesome opportunity-creating power of the open internet." Genachowski, the FCC chairman argued that currently there are no rules governing internet freedom and that the regulations strike a balance between the two extremes of opinion. He also noted they include new rules for mobile that address some critics' concerns. He called the policies "high-level rules of the road" and called internet freedom an ongoing issue for the commission. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] FCC approves open-internet "neutrality" plan, with complaints from both sides . Plan is designed to keep people who pay from getting better Web service than others . Congress could still act to amend or weaken rules . [/SUMMARY]</s>

FCC approves open-internet "neutrality" plan, with complaints from both sides . Plan is designed to keep people who pay from getting better Web service than others . Congress could still act to amend or weaken rules .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- CNN's Patrick Oppmann recently shared his suggestions for visitors to his adopted hometown of Seattle, Washington. CNN.com readers had a lot to say about the city, which is headed into its much-anticipated summer season. "My favorite part is that, in the summertime, everything stays GREEN. With the blue sky, blue water, blue and white mountains on every side and the green, green grass and trees, it is something to behold all right," wrote a reader with the handle 1k9m8c1. As the short, rainy days give way to sunshine "the Northface parkas get ripped off, the Keens and the Chacos come out, and acres of pasty, sunstarved flesh are thrust into the light." For visitors planning a trip to Seattle as the city sheds layers and springs into summer, here are some of CNN.com readers' best tips: . Best views of the city and the setting sun . For city views at a fraction of the cost of the Space Needle's observation area, one reader recommends the Columbia Tower downtown. "Better view, better price, and no one knows about it!" For the best sunset views, try Salty's on Alki. "Get a table near the window and you will see the most spectacular (sight) as the sun reflects off the buildings downtown," wrote CNN.com commenter Yogababy. DaveinIndy recommends the view from the Bainbridge Ferry as you go across the Puget Sound to Bainbridge Island and back. CNN's Insider Trip Tips: Denver . Best bites . The name Tom Douglas came up a lot in food discussions. Multiple commenters recommended the downtown Seattle restaurants owned by the award-winning local chef and his wife. Commenter CM2BTHD took exception to CNN reporter Oppmann's recommendation of How to Cook a Wolf, offering the Tom Douglas restaurants "all within three blocks of each other in the downtown Seattle core" as a better alternative. "Lola. Dahlia Lounge. Palace Kitchen. Serious Pie. Dahlia Bakery. I recommend Lola for breakfast. Opens at 7 a.m. most days. You'll never know how you managed to eat so damned many potatoes," CM2BTHD wrote. Kakash recommended Buenos Aires, complete with a tango-dancing staff, for a "very entertaining night out." Pasta Freska on Westlake Avenue is a favorite with commenter andman. This small Italian restaurant skips the dinner menu altogether. "Just tell the owner, Mike, what you like and don't like, and the plates start rolling out. Amazing place!" For brunch, the 5 Spot in Seattle's Queen Anne neighborhood, gets reader frommet's vote. "Super fun and very Seattle! I lived in Capitol Hill for three years and went there every weekend." The same commenter also recommends Top Pot Doughnuts, although he suggests skipping the coffee there. Seattle's coffee scene soaks up a lot of the spotlight, but the region's wines should not be overlooked. Yogababy was a French wine snob before moving to Seattle. "Once I got to (Washington), I only drank WA wines and there are some excellent ones! Hedges, Chateau St. Michelle, Columbia Crest." Your best Denver tips . Outdoors . DaveinIndy, who recommended a ride on the Bainbridge ferry, also offers this suggestion: "A day trip to Mount Rainier and/or Olympic National Park is also spectacularly rewarding. Rainier is truly king of the mountains in the continental U.S." What's missing? Share your top spots below. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Seattle's lush, green summer gets rave reviews from one CNN.com reader . CNN.com commenters recommend chef Tom Douglas' downtown restaurants . Ride the Bainbridge Ferry across the Puget Sound for great views of the city . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Seattle's lush, green summer gets rave reviews from one CNN.com reader . CNN.com commenters recommend chef Tom Douglas' downtown restaurants . Ride the Bainbridge Ferry across the Puget Sound for great views of the city .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- Washington was a sea of smartphones snapping photos on Monday throughout the pomp and circumstance of Inauguration Day. Between the glamorous gowns, the presidential oath, and the parade of marching bands, it was a day meant to be documented. But we made a discovery during it all: Just as interesting as the photos themselves were the people taking them. Back in 2009, the inauguration was a huge deal -- an estimated 1.8 million people packed the National Mall to see America's first African-American president make history. Not surprisingly, CNN iReport saw a record number of contributions that day: nearly 12,000 submissions of "the moment," when President Obama took the oath of office. This time, things were different. There were fewer attendees -- officials estimated between 800,000 to 900,000 people attended Monday's inauguration. But, more importantly, the social media landscape has dramatically changed in the past four years. So this time around, we invited our audience to document the inauguration through Instagram, the mobile photo-sharing site that was launched in October 2010 and now boasts an impressive 90 million monthly active users. The call to action was simple -- we invited attendees to take an Instagram shot of themselves during the inaugural festivities, tag the photo #cnn, and share why they made the trek to Washington -- and the end result was fantastic. Between Sunday and Monday, we received more than 10,300 photos and showcased some of the best submissions in a custom interactive. Others uploaded photos to iReport, CNN's global participatory news community. Together, the photos tell you a story about the people assembled for Obama's second inauguration. The crowd was diverse, made up of people old and young, black and white. There were families and groups of friends. For some, it was their first inauguration. Others were back to see Obama's inaugural speech a second time. It was cold and sunny, as evidenced by the number of winter hats and sunglasses in the crowd. At least one attendee, though, used her shades to block more than just the sunshine. "I was a total crybaby out there," she wrote. American flags were the other accessory du jour. "Don't even think about going without a flag," advised iReporter Lisa Clemans-Cope, mother of two young girls. At least one attendee made a point to stand out among the rest -- in a clever homemade "Obama Care Bear" costume. There were notable attendees in the crowd -- "Glee's" Darren Criss, Rep. Grace Meng, D-New York, and comedian Hal Sparks all joined the Instagram + iReport project -- alongside average citizens. And most everyone was grinning ear to ear, except for one man who documented his frustration with the glitchy Mall television feed. Finally, there were the stories behind the photos. Renee Chrisman shared a photo of her husband, Gunnery Sgt. Bradley Chrisman, who was chosen to escort inaugural VIPs onto the stage. Renee and their children were glued to the television set at home in North Carolina hoping to see Bradley in action. "We caught a glimpse of him standing to the right of the president," she gushed. Political science student John White took notes during the ceremony. "I plan on pursuing a career in national politics," he said. "Now that I am beginning to lay out the work for my future career, this inauguration is my first step." And for Becky Primeaux, attending the inauguration meant she could cross off an item on her "bucket list." "To be part of something that is so patriotic and historic is so exciting," she said. "I think every American should (attend an inauguration) in their life." [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] CNN iReport and Instagram teamed up to see who attended the inauguration and why . More than 10,300 people sent in photos, and the pictures paint a diverse portrait of the crowd . "To be part of something that is so patriotic and historic is so exciting," said one iReporter . [/SUMMARY]</s>

CNN iReport and Instagram teamed up to see who attended the inauguration and why . More than 10,300 people sent in photos, and the pictures paint a diverse portrait of the crowd . "To be part of something that is so patriotic and historic is so exciting," said one iReporter .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Baghdad, Iraq (CNN) -- Abu Ali is 58 years old. He could be 78, his beard gray, body frail and his face a leathery road map that traces the unimaginable horrors his family has endured. It is a face that reflects a visceral human portrait of the grinding violence in Iraq and the toll it has taken on ordinary civilians. The al-Jibouri family are not politicians, nor insurgents, nor religious radicals. They are -- or used to be -- a family of humble watermelon sellers, plying their trade with plump fruit from Mosul in their stall, barely 50 meters from their home in Baghdad. Their descent into hell began on July 23, 2007. Their son Ali -- 19 and a week away from his wedding -- was working on the family stall when one of Baghdad's ubiquitous car bombs targeted the market area. He was killed instantly. "I was a week away from marrying him off," Abu Ali sobs. "Instead I buried him." Abu Ali doesn't stop crying the entire time we are with the family. Eight thousand Iraqis died last year, according to the U.N. Iraq Body Count lists 640 civilian deaths so far in January. But numbers are anonymous and cold: to visit the al-Jibouri family is to see and feel and be suffocated by the human reality of those statistics. As the politicians play politics, and the insurgents deal in death, it is people like this who suffer the fallout, as they always do in war. Ali's devastated fiance Duaa later married Ali's brother Alaa. Together they had three children: a son, also called Ali, now aged three, and daughters Rukkaya, four, and Narjis, eight months. In July last year the family was preparing for their annual pilgrimage to the holy city of Najaf, where Ali is buried, to honor his memory. It was July 20, a Saturday, and Alaa and brother Abbas were on duty at the water melon stand. Everyone heard the bomb inside the family home. It rocked the walls and shook the ground. Alaa, 23, and Abbas, 17, were blown to pieces, along with several other people. Today, the walls by the old watermelon stand are scarred by shrapnel. Abu Ali has now lost all three sons. "No one will call me dad anymore," he wails. The funeral was well attended: hundreds of neighbors and friends turned out, disbelieving what had happened to this family. Chanting and wailing mourners carried the coffins aloft to begin Alaa and Abbas's journey to Najaf to lie alongside Ali. The children asked daily where their father was. Abu Ali and his wife, Umm Ali, at first couldn't face telling them the truth, instead saying he'd gone to Mosul for more watermelons. Eventually, of course, they had to explain that he, and their uncle, were dead. "We tell them he has gone to paradise and is watching over them, but Ali especially cannot comprehend," says Abu Ali. "When we say his father is in paradise, he just cries." Ali is clearly a traumatized boy. His sister seems happy enough, playing on a sofa with her cousin and a tattered doll. Alaa's other child, the baby daughter Narjis, was just a few weeks old when her father died. She smiles at me and touches my watch, enthralled by the shiny wristband and oblivious to her forlorn circumstances. Then Rukkaya surprises us by suddenly counting to 10 in English. We applaud her and her face lights up with pride. She counts again, and then once more. The smiles her performance brings are a rare event in this home. Ali sits nearby, his head dipping and swaying, as it's done ever since his father died. The family has a fourth son, Ammar, but after the second explosion he fell apart emotionally and was certain that one day he too would die. And then he vanished, simply disappeared. The family hasn't seen or heard from him since. Alaa's widow, Duaa, still lives with the family, or what remains of it. She hides in the kitchen during our visit, unwilling to speak about what the two car bombs took from her. Abu Ali continues to weep and lament the family's bleak future. The watermelon stand was the family's only income. They are seven months behind on the rent for their tiny three-room house on a muddy side street. Six people are crammed into the home, Abu Ali and Umm Ali, and Alaa's widow and three children. "It's like we are living in a dark place," says the grieving mother, Umm Ali. "What does one do when you lose your children? We don't go out, we keep our door closed. We want to leave and not stay in this country, but we can't afford it." "They were our bread winners," says Abu Ali. "They supported us, now I have no income, I have to now sell belongings. I haven't paid the rent for seven months. "It's hard. I think of committing suicide, but what would happen to the children? If an official loses a son, all the media covers it and the family is looked after. I have lost three sons and the fourth fled and no one cares about us." We leave Abu Ali and Umm Ali and the grandchildren they now raise and they thank us for telling their story to the world. We have no words, nothing that could possibly comfort or offer promise. Just gratitude for their courage in trying to get others outside this place to maybe understand the human cost of what goes on here. Tomorrow, or the next day, there are sure to be more bombs or bullets sending more families down the tortuous road being navigated by Abu Ali. READ MORE: Is Iraq worse than ever? READ MORE: Ex-PM says violence could 'burn up' region . READ MORE: 'Bad old days' return to Baghdad . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] The humble al-Jibouri family's descent into hell began on July 23, 2007 . Abu Ali was a week away from marrying off his son, but buried him instead . In July last year, he lost two more sons to a bomb blast in Najaf . Abu Ali doesn't stop crying the entire time CNN reporters are with the family . [/SUMMARY]</s>

The humble al-Jibouri family's descent into hell began on July 23, 2007 . Abu Ali was a week away from marrying off his son, but buried him instead . In July last year, he lost two more sons to a bomb blast in Najaf . Abu Ali doesn't stop crying the entire time CNN reporters are with the family .

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<s>[ARTICLE] In 2004, Sen. John Kerry entered the campaign against incumbent President George W. Bush with a seemingly unassailable advantage on a sensitive issue -- the liberal Kerry served in the Vietnam War, and the conservative Bush didn't. Rather than avoid the topic, Bush supporters came up with the notorious "Swift Boat" campaign that raised enough questions about Kerry's war record to negate a major strength. Such "attack the strength" tactics have been a staple of this year's presidential race, with both sides trying to undermine perceived advantages of the other. The latest example is a new Web video that accuses President Barack Obama of engineering classified leaks and claiming undue credit on his signature foreign policy achievement: the raid that killed Osama bin Laden. The premise is simple: In a political environment where perception often trumps policy, mount early challenges to your opponent's strongest attributes to raise questions and create an alternative image in the minds of voters. For example, the Obama campaign has attacked certain Republican nominee Mitt Romney's successful business career, portraying the venture capitalist company he founded as a pioneer in outsourcing American jobs. The purpose was to blunt Romney's persistent claim that his business background made him better qualified than Obama to manage the slow-recovering economy, the most important issue to voters. Meanwhile, Romney's team is challenging Obama on the volatile issue of reforming Medicare, the popular health care program for senior citizens. By naming House Budget Chairman Paul Ryan as his running mate last week, Romney and his team knew the Obama campaign would attack Ryan's proposal to partially privatize Medicare, so they have tried to turn the tables by accusing the president this week of cutting more than $700 billion out of the government-run system. Both of the attacks are misleading or untrue, according to independent assessments. Websites such as PolitiFact.com and Fact.Check.org ruled that outsourcing by Romney's company, Bain Capital, occurred after he gave up daily management responsibilities in 1999. On Medicare, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office found that reforms to the program under Obama's 2010 health care law resulted in hundreds of billions of dollars in savings, rather than spending cuts that reduced benefits, as alleged by the Romney campaign. PolitiFact rated the Romney campaign's claim as "mostly false." To Republican strategist Ron Bonjean , the Romney camp's maneuver on Medicare was "a brilliant move." "They are going to be attacked on it anyway. They have 'jujitsued' this," Bonjean told CNN on Friday, adding: "It's a good idea to try to neutralize this issue right now, which I think they are being very effective at." Outside groups supporting the candidates also are taking part. A video spot by Priorities USA Action, a super-PAC backing Obama, sought to link Romney to the death of the wife of a steel worker who lost his job at a plant closed down by Bain Capital. The ad, which has yet to be scheduled for broadcast, was rated "false" by PolitiFact. Now, a little-known group of former special forces members called the Special Operations OPSEC Education Fund has released the 22-minute Web video that criticizes Obama on the bin Laden takedown. A spokeswoman says the group has raised about $1 million toward an advertising campaign in some key swing states, but refused to discuss donors. Over a picture of Obama, the video's narrator says that the group's mission is to stop politicians from using sensitive intelligence about the bin Laden raid and other clandestine programs for political benefit. The organization, which describes itself as nonpartisan, shares an office with two Republican political consulting firms in Alexandria, Virginia. Its spokesman, Chad Kolton, worked for the Bush administration as a spokesman for the Director of National Intelligence, and its president ran for Congress as a Republican. To Darrell West of the Brookings Institution, the video evokes memories of the Swift Boat campaign that mounted a barrage of negative attacks against Kerry's war record. "Obama's strong suit actually is on national security," said West, the vice president and director of governance studies at Brookings. "He's the guy who got bin Laden, and that's been a central claim of his campaign. So there's always a risk of the opposition coming in with this type of ad to try to undermine the president's credibility and take away what is really his strong suit." The president has regularly cited the killing of bin Laden as a campaign promise he fulfilled, and the head of special operations, Adm. William McRaven, recently told CNN that Obama deserved credit. "Make no mistake about it: It was the president of the United States that shouldered the burden for this operation, that made the hard decisions," McRaven said. Like other top officials, including Defense Secretary Leon Panetta and former Defense Secretary Robert Gates, McRaven also has been highly critical of recent leaks about clandestine operations. The White House has denied leaking classified information, and two federal prosecutors have been assigned to investigate recent leaks about the Stuxnet virus and drone strike operations. Republicans blame Obama for the leaks that occurred on his watch, and they call for an independent investigation. The "attack the strength" tactic is nothing new, but gained prominence last decade when utilized by Republican strategist Karl Rove, who guided Bush's two presidential campaigns . "Karl Rove did something that many other political operatives don't do, and it's really an element of why he's a unique figure in American political life," journalist Wayne Slater said in a PBS Frontline documentary titled "Karl Rove: The Architect." "He understands that while other people look for the weakness in an opponent and exploit that, Rove has long looked at the strength of an opponent." That was particularly true of the Swift Boat attacks on Kerry, said Slater, co-author of the book "Bush's Brain: How Karl Rove Made George W. Bush Presidential." "The No. 1 thing that John Kerry offered was his heroic service in Vietnam," Slater said in the PBS documentary, "and so what Rove did was attack the strength of Kerry, not his weakness." Others clearly took notice. In attacking Romney's background at Bain Capital, the Obama campaign is following the example of former House Speaker Newt Gingrich from the Republican primary campaign. Gingrich's criticism that Romney's business record included shutting down companies and outsourcing jobs got panned by many fellow Republicans. In response, Gingrich said his attacks were only the initial salvos of an all-out assault on the issue that Romney would face from the Obama campaign if he became the nominee. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] A GOP strategist says the Romney campaign "jujitsued" Obama on Medicare . The tactic seeks to undermine the other guy's strongest advantages . Mitt Romney touts his business background, so President Obama attacks it . Romney is vulnerable on Medicare reforms, so he criticizes Obama on the issue . [/SUMMARY]</s>

A GOP strategist says the Romney campaign "jujitsued" Obama on Medicare . The tactic seeks to undermine the other guy's strongest advantages . Mitt Romney touts his business background, so President Obama attacks it . Romney is vulnerable on Medicare reforms, so he criticizes Obama on the issue .

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<s>[ARTICLE] A teenager has been jailed for life after he stabbed a man to death outside an off licence in a row over a cigarette. Kai Steele, 18, was found guilty of murdering 26-year-old Alex Scott after he stabbed him twice in the chest when an argument erupted in an alleyway in south-east London last year. Mr Scott had been on a night out with friends, where they had spent the early evening drinking and gambling, before making their way to the off licence at about 9.30pm on August 10, 2013. Guilty: Kai Steele (left), 18, has been jailed for life after he stabbed builder Alex Scott (right) twice in the chest . A court was told Mr Scott collapsed on the pavement some 20 seconds after he threw the first punch - when a youth asked him for a cigarette. Steele, who was just 17 at the time of the fatal attack, denied the charges at the Old Bailey but was told by Judge Timothy Pontius he would serve a minimum of 18 years in prison. He said: 'This is yet another example of an utterly needless and unjustified waste of a human life from a senseless decision by a teenage boy to put a knife in his pocket before leaving home. 'As is so often the case, that knife was not taken out with any intention in the defendant's mind to use it to cause anyone serious injury, still less to kill. 'Violence did break out, he did take out the knife and inflicted fatal wounds with such force they penetrated the aorta of Alex Scott. 'His family lost a brother and son who was much loved for all his faults. I accept Alex Scott was not completely blameless. His attitude was aggressive and he was clearly worse for drink. 'However the evidence does not establish the defendant was provoked, rather he was too ready to see Alex Scott's behaviour as an invitation to fight. 'The use of a knife can never be described as a reasonable defensive response to a punch.' He continued: 'This murder was neither planned nor premeditated but arose, as so often the case in the context of street violence, in a matter of moments. 'That fact makes it all the more tragic that a human life was lost simply because a knife was needlessly carried and so what would have begun and ended with the trading of a few punches instead led to a murder.' Sentencing: The Old Bailey heard that Mr Scott had been on a night out with friends when a youth outside an off licence asked for a cigarette. A row erupted and resulted in Mr Scott being stabbed in the chest . He added had Steele, who wore a grey tracksuit and appeared impassive in the dock, been a month older at the time of the attack, the sentence would have been much more severe. His co-defendant Dillon Beckford, 18, was acquitted of the same offence last week on the direction of Judge Pontius. Yesterday, prosecutor Simon Denison QC told the court that Steele had a series of past convictions for violent crimes, including muggings, dating back to when he was 12 or 13 years old. An impact statement from Mr Scott's mother, Rachel Van Dyke, said: 'His death was totally unnecessary and I know nothing is ever going to bring Alex back. 'The only thing I can hope for now is the person responsible gets their just desserts. 'Nothing can ever replace Alex. He was funny, outgoing, he had a good heart and would do anything for anybody.' At the opening of the trial, Mr Denison told the court: 'Alex Scott was 26 when he was killed in August last year. His death was as sudden as it was violent and wholly unnecessary. 'Another life taken away in an instant by the use of a knife that was taken on to the street for no reason. 'At about 9.30pm that evening he was outside an off-licence in Eltham Road, south-east London, with a group of friends. 'They were all heavy drinkers and had spent the early evening drinking and gambling at the bookies nearby.' He said 'words were needlessly exchanged' between Steele, his friend Dillon Beckford and the victim and his friends which led to a fight in a nearby alleyway. Mr Denison went on: 'Alex Scott played his part by being unnecessarily confrontational and he appears to have thrown the first punch, but there was absolutely no need or justification for what happened next. 'Kai Steele took out a knife that he had in his jacket and he lunged at Alex Scott twice. He stabbed him twice in the left side of his chest. 'Either blow could have killed him. One penetrated the aorta and the other penetrated his heart. 'Twenty or so seconds after he threw the first punch, Alex Scott collapsed on the pavement, where he died.' Following the sentencing, Detective Chief Inspector Diane Tudway said the murder 'had its origins in a fairly minor verbal confrontation'. 'Kai Steele stabbed him in an instant with a knife that he decided to take on to the street that day for no reason or justification,' she said. 'Alex's death was wholly avoidable and came about through Kai Steele choosing to carry a knife. 'I hope that the sentence today will act as a deterrent if someone is considering taking a knife or weapon out with them. My thoughts are with Alex's family and friends.' [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Kai Steele stabbed 26-year-old Alex Scott twice in the chest after argument . Mr Scott was on a night out with friends when a youth asked for a cigarette . A row erupted and Mr Scott threw first punch but collapsed on pavement . Steele, who was 17 at time, was found guilty and sentenced to 18 years . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Kai Steele stabbed 26-year-old Alex Scott twice in the chest after argument . Mr Scott was on a night out with friends when a youth asked for a cigarette . A row erupted and Mr Scott threw first punch but collapsed on pavement . Steele, who was 17 at time, was found guilty and sentenced to 18 years .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- Inter Milan's new coach Leonardo has revealed how he consulted with former Nerazzurri boss Jose Mourinho before deciding to take on the job. The Brazilian has spent much of his playing and coaching career at city rivals AC Milan but after his chat with Mourinho was convinced he was ready to take over from the sacked Rafael Benitez. "I called him because I don't think you could come to Inter without going through him," Leonardo told the Italian club's official website. "We exchanged ideas on lots of things and I now share his opinions on lots of things. "He knows everything about this place, because he's still here in spirit -- he left everything here. I'm very happy about what he told me. I rate Mourinho as a true world-beater," he added. Football's heroes and villains of 2010 . Mourinho left in late May for Real Madrid after leading Inter to the Champions League, Serie A, Italian Cup treble. Despite Inter's faltering league performances this season under Benitez, Leonardo is convinced that he does not need to make wholesale changes. "Inter are a ready-made team, there's no need to start over. This side has won everything, but in its own way," the 41-year-old former World Cup winner said. "It has its own identity and the players know what to do, when to play and how to play. My job is to create the right conditions for them to be able to do that well." Benitez went after complaining, in the aftermath of Inter's Club World Cup triumph, that club president Massimo Moratti had not given him the funds to strengthen his injury-hit squad. Leonardo believes there is enough quality at Inter to repeat last season's successes. "I've noticed that all the players here, and not only the players, are hugely motivated," he said. "We don't have to invent anything here, just get back to doing the great things that Inter has already shown it can do over the last few years." Inter go into the second half of the Serie A season 13 points behind leaders AC Milan, but with two games in hand, and into the last 16 of the Champions League where they will play Bayern Munich in a repeat of the 2010 final. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Leonardo reveals he took advice from Jose Mourinho before taking Inter job . Leonardo took charge after Rafael Benitez was sacked in the week before Christmas . Mourinho led Inter to a historic treble last season before going to Real Madrid . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Leonardo reveals he took advice from Jose Mourinho before taking Inter job . Leonardo took charge after Rafael Benitez was sacked in the week before Christmas . Mourinho led Inter to a historic treble last season before going to Real Madrid .

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<s>[ARTICLE] New York (CNN) -- Most New Yorkers believe the city's police act appropriately in dealing with Muslims, according to a Quinnipiac University poll released Tuesday. In the poll, taken amid a tumultuous public debate surrounding the police department's surveillance of Muslims, 58% of respondents found no fault with police actions toward Muslims. And 82% said they believe the antiterrorism efforts of the NYPD have been effective. Overall, 63% said they generally approve of the way the department does its job. The survey questioned 964 registered voters across New York's five boroughs from March 6 through Sunday. "Voter approval of the way police are handling terrorism is through the roof and overall approval for police in general and for (Police) Commissioner Ray Kelly is undented by criticism," said Maurice Carroll, director of the Quinnipiac University Polling Institute. Poll respondents also gave Kelly a 64% approval rating for his leadership of the NYPD, while Mayor Michael Bloomberg got a 67% approval rating for the way he is handling crime. But when asked about the controversial "stop and frisk" tactic of police, responses were split: 59% of self-identified white voters approved of the practice, while 68% of self-identified black voters and 52% of self-identified Hispanic voters disapproved. The department's "stop and frisk" policy has prompted its own debate over the years, with some claiming it is nothing less than racial profiling targeting minorities. Critics of NYPD treatment of Muslims claim the police are denying Muslims basic civil rights, and perpetrating ethnic and religious profiling. "It's one of these situations where people are OK with other people being targeted with tactics they would never approve of themselves," said Ibrahim Hooper, a spokesman for the Council on American-Islamic Relations in response to Tuesday's poll. Polling numbers show that most New Yorkers, 54%, have a positive opinion of Islam, with 65% of those polled saying mainstream Islam is a peaceful religion. Hooper said those numbers are positive, but added, "Our basic position is that civil and legal rights are guaranteed by the Constitution, and not subject to the changing nature of public opinion in times of crisis and national security." He added, "I'd like to see polling data of how people felt about the internment of Japanese-Americans just after Pearl Harbor." Last month, Kelly addressed reporters amid a flurry of questions about NYPD tactics. "Our efforts are to protect everyone in New York City, no particular group," he said. "We are continuing to do what we believe necessary to protect the city, pursuant to the law." The Quinnipiac University poll is based on a random sample of people 18 years of age and older, with a sampling error of plus or minus 3.2 percentage points. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] 58% of respondents to Quinnipiac University poll back NYPD's surveillance of Muslims . CAIR official: People approve of tactics they wouldn't stand for if aimed at them . The poll found a racial divide over approval of the NYPD's "stop and frisk" tactic . [/SUMMARY]</s>

58% of respondents to Quinnipiac University poll back NYPD's surveillance of Muslims . CAIR official: People approve of tactics they wouldn't stand for if aimed at them . The poll found a racial divide over approval of the NYPD's "stop and frisk" tactic .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 16:15 EST, 3 January 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 08:14 EST, 4 January 2013 . Mama June has had a glamorous makeover for the Here Comes Honey Boo Boo series of Holladay Specials. The family matriarch, 33, who had greying curls pulled back off her face in previous episodes, debuts a new blonde hairdo in a preview clip, with straightened, shoulder-length locks. She also appears to have had fake tan applied, completing the transformation. Scroll down for video . New look: Mama June has had her hair colored blonde and straightened for the new Holladay Special episodes of Here Comes Honey Boo Boo. She also appears to have had a fake tan . Ten years younger: The new look (left) takes years off June, 33, who previously wore her greying curls pulled back off her face (right) One imagines that the makeover was inspired by the family's newfound fame - June is now photographed wherever she goes. There may be a story behind it though. When asked for more information about June's new look, a TLC spokesman would only say that 'viewers will have to tune in to the episode to find out.' The preview clip of the first Holladay Special, which airs on Sunday night, sees the mother-of-four reveal her fear of mayonnaise. Though she visibly shudders at the mention of the condiment, June admits that she will eat potato salad or tuna salad, as long as she has not witnessed it being prepared. Causing trouble: Honey Boo Boo, aka Alana, attempts to help her mother conquer her fear of mayonnaise . Freaking out: Mama's distress is visible as her girls goad her with exclamations of, 'Look, it's so yummy!' 'If I watch somebody make it, I can't [eat] it,' she says. 'The reason why is . because when I was growing up, the babysitter I had [would make] mayonnaise . sandwiches for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snack... I can't talk . about it, this is making my flesh crawl!' 'I think it's stupid that you're scared of mayonnaise, Mama, I mean . seriously, it's mayonnaise ... It's . like ketchup but white' In a bid to help their mother conquer her fear, the four girls decide to take action, by attempting to explain how ridiculous she is being. 16-year-old Jessica, also known to the family as 'Chubbs', says: 'I think it's stupid that you're scared of mayonnaise, Mama, I mean . seriously, it's mayonnaise, it's white and it's mayonnaise. C'mon, that's . like ketchup but it's just white.' When asked why she doesn't eat . mayonnaise, Jessica says that it is because she is a vegetarian, . sparking ridicule from the whole family. Phobia: Mama June will shudders at the mere mention of mayonnaise (left), and second-youngest daughter Pumpkin, 13, does an uncanny impression (right) Mama asks: 'When did you become a damn vegetarian?' Lauryn, aka 'Pumpkin', 13, adds: 'Marannaise does not have meat in it.' The pair then embark on a bizarre argument, that doesn't involve Jessica at all, in which they both seem to be making the same case. It ends with Pumpkin insisting that 'you could just make a marannaise sammich', causing Mama to shudder, and Pumpkin to then do an uncanny imitation. With the family discussion ending in failure, seven-year-old Alana, Jessica and eldest sister Anna 'Chickadee', 17, decide to present Mama with a large bowl of mayonnaise. Getting in the Holladay spirit: The family show off their Halloween costumes . Running wild: This Sunday's episode sees Alana get hopelessly lost in a corn maze . 'Coming from the kitchen with the mayonnaise to the dining room, you could feel the tension in there,' Jessica reveals. The bright stuff: Alana hollows a pumpkin . As the girls goad their mother with exclamations of, 'Look, it's so yummy!' and 'It jiggles, it's pretty!' June gets increasingly distressed. 'My anxiety levels is up like beyond out the roof,' she says. 'I mean like my chest is real tight, my throat feels like its gonna close up... Y'all gotta get that outta there, c'mon now...  I'm gonna go into full panic ******* attack... Y'all gotta get it outta here FOR REAL!' She failed to find much sympathy from Alana, who recalls afterwards: 'Mama was turning white, just like mayonnaise.' The first episode in the Holladay Specials sees the family prepare for Halloween. According to a precis of the episode from TLC, a pumpkin carving incident ends with Uncle Poodle stuck inside a one of the gourds and the family gets hopelessly lost in a corn maze. A freak accident leaves Pumpkin unable to go trick-or-treating, and June's new look nspires love-struck Sugar Bear to surprise her with an unlikely costume. HERE COMES HONEY BOO BOO: THE SCARY MAYONNAISE . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] The 'Holladay Special' sees seven-year-old Alana and her sisters persuade their mother to confront her fear of mayonnaise . [/SUMMARY]</s>

The 'Holladay Special' sees seven-year-old Alana and her sisters persuade their mother to confront her fear of mayonnaise .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- Imagine not being able to hear a siren during an emergency or to see a warning sign to evacuate. Imagine navigating knee-high mud in a wheelchair or trying to explain to a child with Down syndrome why he or she must seek higher ground. Those are just some of the challenges facing those with physical and cognitive disabilities -- people often least prepared to face a natural disaster. A largely overlooked report issued this month by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction found that the crucial needs of about 1 billion people living with physical and mental disabilities around the world are not woven into the disaster planning and emergency response plans of governments and civil society groups. The result is that a disproportionate number of disabled persons suffer and die in disasters because of a lack of attention to their needs. Emergency response systems and shelters are poorly designed to handle their requirements. According to the report, 70% of those with disabilities who responded to the survey in over 100 countries said they did not know how to tap into any existing emergency response system in their communities. They become largely dependent on the good will of families and neighbors. The report confirms the experience from recent catastrophes like the 2010 earthquake in Haiti -- where deaf victims were trapped underneath rubble, unable to hear the sounds of rescuers drilling above -- and the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan, where victims in wheelchairs could not board evacuation buses or get into temporary housing that had no ramps. And we have seen in the U.S. during Hurricane Katrina and other major storms how those with disabilities suffer. In a post-Katrina study of survivors, reports found that people with physical or cognitive disabilities faced considerable barriers to transportation, evacuation, and housing. Dozens died in nursing homes and medical centers. Many of the disabled survivors did not have jobs, making post-crisis transition even more challenging. It is tempting to presume that people with disabilities are small in number. The reality, however, is that roughly 15% of people in the world live with a physical or cognitive disability -- many of them in developing countries that cannot afford care and inclusion. In the United States, 37.2 million Americans have some form of disability. Despite the success of programs like the Americans with Disabilities Act, there are millions of people left without meaningful employment, education, and services before, during, and after a crisis. The United States has a global imperative to address the needs of the disabled today -- especially in difficult fiscal times. Leaving aside the moral obligation, there is an economic driver at work. Worldwide, people with disabilities have higher unemployment rates than those without disabilities. In developing countries, 80% to 90% of persons of working age with disabilities are unemployed, whereas in industrialized countries the figure is between 50% and 70%. Their exclusion from the workplace deprives societies of an estimated $1.4 trillion in gross domestic product. As we plan for disaster relief, as well as routine development and assistance, it is vital that America lead with a sustained commitment to those with disabilities. The U.S. failure to ratify the U.N. Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities -- a convention signed by 155 nations -- reinforces a perception that America does not care about the disabled. Yet despite the failure to ratify the convention, America has a good story to tell on inclusive development and disabilities. The U.S. Agency for International Development has led the way on supporting principles of universal design that not only fund specific programs to address the targeted needs of disabled citizens, but integrate disabilities into generalized programs that improve job training, education, quality and accessibility of care. Over 75% of U.S. missions and USAID offices report activities and programs that specifically include people with disabilities. The U.S. State Department has a special adviser for international disability rights and has made enormous progress in expanding the range of U.S.-funded exchange programs to include more participants with disabilities and to convene international experts around the issue. Recently, a major conference took place in Washington, with leaders on disability rights from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, the Philippines, Tajikistan, and Uganda and representatives from NGOs, universities, and government offices in the U.S., to address challenges facing persons with disabilities in their home communities. The U.S. sent the first-ever official team of disabled sports envoys to China to promote inclusion and equality for persons with disabilities. This month we celebrate the 25th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month to pay homage to our own citizens with disabilities. The October campaign theme is "Because we are EQUAL to the task." This is a good time to think about those at home and overseas who are marginalized and excluded because of disabilities and make sure we are doing our part. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Tara Sonenshine. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Tara Sonenshine: In disasters, the needs of those with disabilities should be in forefront . She says Hurricane Katrina, Japan and Haiti earthquakes demonstrate the problem . U.N. report says needs of a billion people are not being woven into disaster planning . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Tara Sonenshine: In disasters, the needs of those with disabilities should be in forefront . She says Hurricane Katrina, Japan and Haiti earthquakes demonstrate the problem . U.N. report says needs of a billion people are not being woven into disaster planning .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- The "League of Nations" might sound like the next Hollywood blockbuster, but UEFA's latest plan to revolutionize international football caused nothing but confusion when it was announced Thursday. The game's European governing body has stepped up its attempt to bring more prestige to friendly games, creating more opportunities for countries to qualify for the 2020 European Championship finals and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. But it has left journalists and fans bamboozled, with nobody seemingly able to explain just quite how the tournament will work -- even UEFA admits the format "has not been finalized." Instead, social media was awash with doubts and more questions than answers over the new system, which was given the go-ahead at the UEFA Congress in Astana, Kazakhstan. Set to commence in September 2018, the competition will involve all 54 member nations, with four divisions of 12-14 teams divided into four smaller pools. The top-ranked teams will be in the first division, and the lowest-ranked in the last. The winner of each mini-pool will then meet at a neutral venue in June 2019, and the overall division winner automatically qualifies for the Euro 2020 finals. It would mean that one of the weaker nations from Division D would be guaranteed a place at the tournament. The remaining 20 qualification places for Euro 2020 will be decided through the usual qualifying process, with games played from 2019, possibly going on as late as March 2020. There is the possibility that a team may reach the League of Nations playoff final having already made it through to either the World Cup or European Championship finals. In that case, the place would be allocated to the country finishing immediately below in that division. It is also thought that two of Europe's 13 qualifying places for the 2022 World Cup may also be decided via the top two divisions of the Nations League. While fans across the world wrestled with a potentially exciting concept bereft of any definite detail, UEFA recognized the new venture as a "big step for national teams in Europe." "We accept and respect that all UEFA member associations have agreed to create a new competition," Wolfgang Niersbach, chairman of UEFA's national teams competition committee, said in a statement. "This is a big step for national teams in Europe and we hope that fans will support the new format." The idea has been warmly welcomed by some, including the English Football Association. "The prospect of England playing three or four teams from the best 12 or 16 countries in Europe on a home and away basis should be very exciting," FA general secretary Alex Horne told his organization's website. "It means we will go from a major tournament such as a World Cup straight into a set of three international double-headers between September and November that will really mean something. "There will be the threat of relegation too, so there will really be something at stake." The European Club Association, which represents the 214 teams from across the continent, believes the move is a positive one. "A positive aspect of this new concept is that our players will no longer have to travel around the world for friendly matches," ECA Chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said. "I am not worried about the Champions League; it is a prime product and the Europa League as well will continue to flourish." But there are concerns from FIFPro, the world players' union, which believes the new format may place too much strain on players. Leading nations have often used friendly games to blood new talent, work on new tactics and give an opportunity to players to stake their claim for a regular starting place at major tournaments, with multiple substitutions taking place throughout contests. That may now change, according to FIFPro Director of Player Services Tijs Tummers. "As we understand, the Nations League will be another prestigious competition," he told FIFPro's website. "As a consequence, that implies an increase in the workload for the group of top players." [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] UEFA has introduced the Nations League competition . Competition will replace most international friendlies from 2018 . Allows opportunity to qualify for European Championship and World Cup finals . 54 nations to be divided into four groups based on coefficients . [/SUMMARY]</s>

UEFA has introduced the Nations League competition . Competition will replace most international friendlies from 2018 . Allows opportunity to qualify for European Championship and World Cup finals . 54 nations to be divided into four groups based on coefficients .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Tara Brady . PUBLISHED: . 15:35 EST, 17 March 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 16:55 EST, 17 March 2014 . Dyson is recalling one million heaters over fears they could pose a fire risk, the company announced today. The worldwide recall of the AM04 and AM05 models was issued on their website after 'a small number' short circuited, causing a small internal fire. The British company stressed that other models are unaffected and no-one has been injured as a result of the fault. The recall of the AM04 (pictured) and AM05 models was issued on their website after 'a small number' short circuited, causing a small internal fire . In a message posted on their website, Dyson is urging customers to return the products for a free engineering fix. 'We’re voluntarily recalling all AM04 and AM05 heaters due to a potential safety issue. 'Out of a million heaters sold worldwide, we know of a small number that have short-circuited resulting in a small fire contained within the machine. 'There have been no instances of injury or property damage, but safety is our first priority. The British company stressed that other models are unaffected and no-one has been injured as a result of fault . 'That’s why we’re recalling all machines and implementing an engineering fix in each one.' Earlier this month the company released a 'near silent' update to its bladeless fan that it claims is quieter than a buzzing mosquito. The company said the Air Multiplier fan is up to 75 per cent quieter than the original model, released in 2009, after a team of 65 Dyson engineers reduced the turbulence of high velocity air. Wiltshire-based Dyson, which employs more than 3,600 staff worldwide, was founded in 1992 and now sells machines, including vacuum cleaners and hand dryers, in more than 50 markets. Max Conze, Dyson CEO, said: 'We have sold a million heaters around the world; we have seen a small number short-circuit, which in four cases resulted in contained burning. 'Although there have been no instances of personal injury or damage to property, it’s four too many. So we are working with the relevant regulatory bodies and preparing for a voluntary recall. 'We ask owners to visit www.dysonrecall.com for further instructions.' [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] The recall of the AM04 and AM05 models was issued on their website . A 'small number' short circuited causing a small fire . The British company stressed that other models are unaffected . No-one has been injured as a result of the fault . [/SUMMARY]</s>

The recall of the AM04 and AM05 models was issued on their website . A 'small number' short circuited causing a small fire . The British company stressed that other models are unaffected . No-one has been injured as a result of the fault .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Washington (CNN) -- Ten million Americans a year are victims of identity theft. It's a growing problem in the United States, but fighting it doesn't appear to be a priority, a new report says. A report by the Justice Department Inspector General released Tuesday cites the wide-ranging costs and dangers of ID theft. Although the report has no new numbers, the financial losses are believed to be substantially higher than the $15.6 billion documented in 2005. Inspector General Glenn Fine found the effort to combat the problem, however, has lagged since the President's Task Force on ID Theft was established in 2007. "We found that to some degree identity theft initiatives have faded as priorities," said Fine. He said the Justice Department has not developed a coordinated plan to combat ID theft and that some recommendations of the President's Task Force have not been addressed. No one has been appointed to oversee the efforts, the report says. The report says "the specific crime of identity theft is not a top FBI priority." However, the report adds that the FBI often addresses the issue through the Cyber Division's criminal intrusion program, which is a priority of the agency. Similarly, ID theft investigations are often part of larger federal criminal investigations into health care fraud, mortgage fraud and credit card fraud. "Identity theft can also be a significant element of violent crimes, such as domestic abuse, and even terrorism, and a significant number of ID theft-related crimes originate overseas," the report said. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Justice Department Inspector General cites wide-ranging costs and dangers of ID theft . Effort to fight problem has lagged since task force formed in 2007, report says . Costs thought to be substantially higher than the $15.6 billion documented in 2005 . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Justice Department Inspector General cites wide-ranging costs and dangers of ID theft . Effort to fight problem has lagged since task force formed in 2007, report says . Costs thought to be substantially higher than the $15.6 billion documented in 2005 .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 12:26 EST, 30 November 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 17:52 EST, 30 November 2012 . A flight attendant is suing octogenarian billionaire real estate developer A. Alfred Taubman for $29 million claiming he fondled her, tried to rip . off her clothing during flights aboard his private plane and told her she ruined her life by . getting pregnant and should have had an abortion. Nicole Rock, 38, filed the complaint on Thursday with the federal court in Detroit, she has accused her former boss, 88, of improper conduct in the roughly six years she worked for the . married father of three. Rock, who began working for Taubman's . company as a flight attendant in March 2005, alleged her civil rights . were violated by the Taubman Air Terminals Inc. president and chief . executive and his company because she was 'forced to endure horrific . illegal acts by defendants of a graphic and sexually harassing nature.' Billionaire real estate developer A. Alfred Taubman, pictured with his second wife Judy, is accused of sexual discrimination, harassment and wrongful termination . Unmarried flight attendant Rock claims she was 'subjected to repeated comments, innuendos, advances, and other offensive conduct of a sexual nature' by Taubman . Nicole Rock filed her complaint on Thursday in which she accused her former boss of improper conduct . In her complaint, the unmarried flight attendant claims Taubman . grabbed her or brushed against her on multiple occasions, forced his . tongue into her ear and mouth repeatedly, ripped buttons off her . blouse, and once tried to perform oral sex on her. According to the complaint, Rock was awarded disability leave in February 2011 because of the 'extreme stress, anxiety, fearfulness and depression' she experienced as a result of her work conditions. She left Taubman's employ for good that month. The filing alleges 'during a flight, (Taubman) forced his hands down the front of (Rock's) dress and proceeded to forcefully kiss her on the mouth without her consent … Taubman violently tore buttons off of (Rock's) blouse.' Rock alleges she repeatedly asked Taubman to stop, telling him: 'You're hurting me,' and asking 'Are you crazy?' and 'Why don't you hire a prostitute?' Rock also claims Taubman 'became very angry' and told her she 'should have gotten an abortion' when she informed him she was pregnant in December 2009. 'The allegations contained in the . complaint filed in court against A. Alfred Taubman are not true,' Taubman's office said in a statement. 'Mr. Taubman will address the . complaint through the appropriate legal channels.' Nicole Rock worked as a flight attendant for Taubman Air Terminals Inc. for six years . Rock's attorney Thomas Warnicke said his client isn't currently working and has been left devastated by the whole affair . Taubman is a prominent philanthropist, who has contributed millions to support the University of Michigan . Rock's attorney, Thomas Warnicke told The Detroit News that his client isn't working. 'This has been emotionally devastating for her,' he said. Shortly after informing her boss she was pregnant, Rock went on a company-approved disability leave, the lawsuit says. Rock gave birth in February 2010 and was allegedly forced to return to work in March, rather than April as she had planned. Immediately after her return, Rock says Taubman engaged in harassing behavior about her decision to have the baby. Rock sought and received a second short-term disability leave in February 2011, the filing says. Taubman's 'severe' conduct resulted in her forced resignation on Feb. 13, 2011. Rock last year sued her daughter's father, Steven Widman of Waterford, chief pilot for Taubman Air Terminals, for $1,432 per month in child support. The $29 million is one percent of Taubman's net worth of $2.9 billion, as estimated by Forbes magazine in September. Taubman lives in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, and started the mall empire Taubman Centers Inc in 1950. He is a prominent philanthropist, who has contributed millions to support the Detroit Institute of Art and the University of Michigan. In . 2002 and 2003 he served roughly nine months in prison over an art . auction price-fixing scandal at Sotheby's, which he bought in 1983. He . no longer has a controlling stake. Taubman has been married twice. In 1948 he wed his college sweetheart . Reva Kolodney, but they divorced in 1977. Then in 1982 he married Judith Mazor . Rounick, a former Miss Israel in 1962. He has three adult children Gayle, . Robert and William who work within his business empire. Taubman is regarded as a 'legend in retailing' who made his fortune pioneering the concept of the shopping mall . Former Sotheby's Chairman A. Alfred Taubman served nine months in prison over an art auction price-fixing scandal ten years ago . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] A. Alfred Taubman made his fortune building shopping malls and has served prison time for involvement in a price-fixing scandal at Sotheby's . Nicole Rock, 38, worked for six years as a flight attendant on board his private plane . She claims she was 'forced to endure horrific . illegal acts by defendants of a graphic and sexually harassing nature' Her lawsuit is laying claim to one percent of his $2.9 billion fortune . Taubman is twice married, his current wife is a former Miss Israel . [/SUMMARY]</s>

A. Alfred Taubman made his fortune building shopping malls and has served prison time for involvement in a price-fixing scandal at Sotheby's . Nicole Rock, 38, worked for six years as a flight attendant on board his private plane . She claims she was 'forced to endure horrific . illegal acts by defendants of a graphic and sexually harassing nature' Her lawsuit is laying claim to one percent of his $2.9 billion fortune . Taubman is twice married, his current wife is a former Miss Israel .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Rosa Rios has been accused of stealing lunch and money from children on the school bus . A school bus worker has been charged with stealing lunch boxes and money from dozens of children between the ages of five and three. Rosa Rios, 33, was allegedly seen rifling through the backpacks of children and taking lunch and cash as they were travelling to school in Millville in New Jersey on the bus she works on. Rios, who worked as an aide for Sheppard Bus Services and was supposed to be supervising children on board, has now been sacked from the company. Millville Public Schools, which manages 10 schools in the area which use the bus service to transport children, has written to parents of pupils informing them about the arrest of Rios. Authorities said the alleged thefts took place between January and February. Rios is believed to have targeted 29 children, the Courier Post reported. The incident came to light when an investigation was launched when another driver claimed they were missing around $400. Police reviewed surveillance footage from the bus and found Rios allegedly taking items from the children's backpacks while they were on board and on their way to school. 'It looks like she was trying to take advantage of them,' said police Detective Lt. Jody Farabella. 'Sheppard did the best thing by firing her. 'It's also good for the district to let parents know things are OK.' David Gentile of Millville Public Schools said once the incident came to light Rios was removed immediately from the Sheppard bus routes. Police did not confirm how many times the thefts allegedly took place or how many children were targeted. Millville worked as a bus aide for Sheppard Bus Services where she was meant to be helping children on board . Officers are also investigating whether Rios was responsible for the theft from the bus driver. Rios has been charged with theft and robbery and is being held in Cumberland County Jail. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Rosa Rios has been charged with theft for stealing children's lunch money . She allegedly rifled through backpacks to take lunchboxes and cash . Rios, a bus aide is accused of stealing from 29 children on school bus . Thefts are alleged to have taken place between January and February . She has been charged with theft and robbery and is being held in jail . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Rosa Rios has been charged with theft for stealing children's lunch money . She allegedly rifled through backpacks to take lunchboxes and cash . Rios, a bus aide is accused of stealing from 29 children on school bus . Thefts are alleged to have taken place between January and February . She has been charged with theft and robbery and is being held in jail .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Tragic: Less than three weeks after this photo of Nico Lambrechts and his wife Adele was posted online, the investment analyst fell 80ft to his death . He appeared to have the perfect life. Pictured on a recent tropical holiday, Nico Lambrechts looked a relaxed and contented family man as he posed with his wife. But less than three weeks after he posted this photograph on the internet, the investment  analyst fell 80ft to his death from an exclusive open-air restaurant in London. The successful 46-year-old took a lift to Sir Terence Conran’s Coq d’Argent at lunchtime and then fell through the atrium within the building. He landed next to diners who were enjoying lunch at cafes and bars in a shopping complex at the bottom of the building in the City. Medics reached him within minutes but were unable to save him. He was pronounced dead by a doctor at the scene minutes later. Mr Lambrechts is thought to have made the short walk to the restaurant from his office at Investec Asset Management in the Square Mile. Last night neighbours said they were baffled as to why a devoted family man would want to potentially commit suicide. His wife Adele was too distressed to talk about her loss. But a neighbour said: ‘He was a really great guy.’ When asked about the reason behind the possible suicide, he said: ‘You never know. He was a random man, unpredictable – you know.’ Mr Lambrechts lived with his wife and three children in a £2million six-bedroom gated home in the upmarket town of Cobham, Surrey. He took his family on luxury holidays to destinations such as Venice. The banker’s death last week is the fourth to have occurred at the restaurant and the second in as many months. In May 2007, City employee Richard Ford, 33, died after he plunged from the terrace onto a bus. In July 2009 stockbroker Anjool Malde, 24, leapt to his death from the venue holding a glass of champagne after being suspended from his job at Deutsche Bank. And last month diners watched in horror as businesswoman Rema Begum, 29, took a sip of wine from her glass on the outdoor terrace, before putting her handbag on the floor and then toppling over the edge. Another tragedy: In May 2007, City employee Richard Ford (right), 33, died after he plunged from the terrace of Sir Terence Conran’s Coq d’Argent (left) onto a bus . Suicide: Mr Lambrechts jumped to his death in the internal atrium of the building in the City of London . A woman who works in a shop nearby said the restaurant is ‘cursed’ because of the rising number of deaths. ‘It’s become a trademark place to come and commit suicide,’ she said. ‘It’s very sad.’ Coq d’Argent is built on the site of an ancient burial ground where for centuries hundreds of corpses of affluent Londoners were  buried in shallow graves. The restaurant appeared in the James Bond-themed film sequence for the Olympics opening ceremony that featured the Queen. In the film, diners at Coq d’Argent can be seen waving to a helicopter which supposedly contains Her Majesty and James Bond actor Daniel Craig, who ‘fly’ over the restaurant on their way to the Olympic Stadium in Stratford where the Queen ‘parachutes’ in. Yesterday an inquest into Mr Lambrechts’s death was opened and then adjourned at the City of London Coroner’s Court. The man fell to his death in the building's internal atrium . Site: Police stand at the spot where Mr Lambrechts fell to his death . W worker cleans the area where Mr Lambrechts died . Witnesses have told how they heard a ‘loud bang’ and a ‘cracking like a whip’ as he hit the ground near Bank Tube station. Rita Olsen, a Danish tourist, said she thought there had been a car crash. ‘I was texting my friend to arrange meeting her because I was running late and suddenly heard a loud bang and a cracking sound, like a whip,’ she said. 'He was a really great guy. He was a random man, unpredictable - you know' Nico Lambrechts's neighbour in Cobham . ‘Someone screamed and I couldn’t see what was happening, but thought maybe there had been a car crash but when the police showed up I realised someone had died. ‘It is really sad and I’m still in shock. I was horrified when I found out what had happened. I feel sorry for whoever he has left behind.’ Some workers blamed the stress of the City for the spate of deaths. One said: ‘The last girl only jumped not too long ago and someone else died a while back when they jumped and landed on a bus. ‘It’s terrible that someone can be in such a bad place that they would do that. Maybe the pressure of working in the City got to him.’ Also dead: In July 2009 stockbroker Anjool Malde (pictured with singer Geri Halliwell), 24, leapt to his death from the venue holding a glass of champagne after being suspended from his job at Deutsche Bank . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Nico Lambrechts posted this tropical holiday photo online three weeks ago . But 46-year-old investment analyst fell 80ft to his death from Coq d’Argent . The Investec Asset Management worker landed next to diners in London who were enjoying lunch at cafes and bars . His wife Adele is too distressed to talk but neighbours said they were baffled . For . confidential support on suicide matters call the Samaritans on 08457 90 . 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or see www.samaritans.org for . details . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Nico Lambrechts posted this tropical holiday photo online three weeks ago . But 46-year-old investment analyst fell 80ft to his death from Coq d’Argent . The Investec Asset Management worker landed next to diners in London who were enjoying lunch at cafes and bars . His wife Adele is too distressed to talk but neighbours said they were baffled . For . confidential support on suicide matters call the Samaritans on 08457 90 . 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or see www.samaritans.org for . details .

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<s>[ARTICLE] As her two-year-old daughter Darcey covers her hands in paint then shrieks with delight, Trish Gregory looks on with amusement. Her once tidy and ordered home in Newark, Nottinghamshire, has descended into a permanent state of noisy chaos, since Darcey and her baby sister, Bea, came along. But Trish, 49, wouldn’t have it any other way. Trish and Rob Gregory with Darcey, left, and Bea, right, conceived their children through egg donations . In fact, she loves being a mum so much so that she and her partner Rob, 46, are even hoping to start trying for another child next year. By then, Trish, a social worker, will be 50, but she says her age doesn’t put her off. ‘Both my pregnancies were easy and I have plenty of energy, so why not?’ she said. Trish conceived Darcey and then Bea through egg donation at CARE Fertility Nottingham. She believed that using the eggs of a younger woman would give her a better chance of getting pregnant. The clinic used Rob’s sperm, so he is biologically the girls’ father. But Trish has never felt like any less of a mother because of the way the girls came into the world. Trish, pictured after giving birth to Darcey in 2012, said she left having children late in life as she hadn't met anyone she wanted to become a parent with . Trish and Rob, pictured at a friend's wedding, started trying for a baby after they met 10 years ago but weren't able to conceive naturally . She said: ‘I carried them for nine months and gave birth to them and so they couldn’t feel more like mine. ‘And funnily enough, Darcey is blonde like me, whereas Rob is dark. She also has many of my mannerisms. ‘If I have a bad day with them both I just joke that they’re nothing to do with me,’ she laughs. Like so many other women her age, Trish resents the endless talk about women putting their careers before family and then leaving motherhood too late. ‘This certainly wasn’t the case for me as I always wanted children,’ she said. 'They couldn't feel more like mine,' Trish says of Bea, left, and Darcey, right . Happy family: Trish and Rob with Darcey after the birth of Bea . ‘I love my job but it isn’t the reason why I’m having kids now.’ She points out that she only got together with Rob, a horticulturist, when she was 40, and up until then she had not met anyone that she actually wanted to have children with. The couple met on a bouncy castle at a friend’s barbecue and they hit it off straightaway. ‘We’re both very laidback and Rob is very funny and kind,’ Trish said. ‘I knew he was the one for me.’ After a couple of years together, they started trying for a baby but when nothing had happened after a year or two, they began to talk about IVF. ‘We certainly didn’t rush into anything, and we aren’t really the types to panic,’ she said. ‘We both loved our jobs, we had a good social life and a great relationship so I think we realised that if we didn’t have a family it wouldn’t be the end of the world.’ But when the clinic suggested egg donation, they both agreed to give it a go - and they eventually settled on a college-educated, blonde-haired donor. Trish says she's a calmer mother to Bea, left, and Darcey, right, now that she is older . Trish is planning to have a third child next year . Unfortunately, only one embryo was viable from the eight donor eggs. Remarkably, though, Trish still got pregnant, and she and Rob were delighted. In spite of her age, she sailed through the pregnancy, giving birth to Darcey only a couple of hours after finishing work. Trish jokes that she spent her entire maternity leave simply staring at her daughter. ‘I was just mesmerised by her and I didn’t really care about anything else,’ she said. And to her surprise, Trish seemed to be a lot more relaxed than many of the other new mums around her. According to the mother-of-two, some of the women she met in their 20s were worried about getting things wrong, and were fixated on having all the best equipment for their babies – while Trish and Rob had bought everything second-hand. ‘They worried if their baby had a sniffle or hadn’t put on much weight,’ Trish said. ‘I guess being older, I was just more used to trusting my instincts more, and having a bit more perspective on things.’ But it was, says Trish, the mums in their 30s who seemed the most anxious. ‘Many just wanted everything to be perfect,’ she said. ‘Perfect houses, perfect babies and perfect careers, whereas I just wanted to enjoy my baby, without worrying about what anyone else thought.’ Other mothers would often comment on how calm Trish was, and because she looks young for her age, she says she has never had a problem meeting other mums at playgroups or in the park. She and Rob loved being parents so much so that when Darcey was one, they returned to the clinic to start the egg donation process again. Unfortunately their original donor was no longer available, so they chose another one – and this time they were left with two viable embryos. One became Bea and the other they have frozen for the future. ‘We’re hoping to go back to the clinic again soon, and it would be great if we could have a third,’ said Trish, who is back at work full-time, having found the girls a child-minder. ‘We are fatalistic though. If it happens, it happens, but if it doesn’t, we have two wonderful girls, and we certainly feel very blessed. ‘One thing is for sure though. I’m certainly not going to waste my time wishing I’d had children when I was younger. ‘This works for us. We’re all happy and healthy and I don’t think I’d have been quite this relaxed if I’d embarked on motherhood any earlier.’ For more information on egg donation, visit www.carefertility.com . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Trish Gregory paid £25k to have her two daughters through egg donation . The 49-year-old and partner Rob, 46, planning third baby next year . Mother-of-two believes being older mum has made her a calmer parent . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Trish Gregory paid £25k to have her two daughters through egg donation . The 49-year-old and partner Rob, 46, planning third baby next year . Mother-of-two believes being older mum has made her a calmer parent .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Charlie Skillen . Follow @@charlieskillen . Arjen Robben won't be tuning in to the Champions League semi-final between Chelsea and Atletico Madrid as he 'couldn't watch' the first leg. Robben was part of the Bayern Munich side humiliated 4-0 by Real Madrid at home to crash out of the competition on Tuesday night. However, the Holland winger doesn't care who faces Real in the final, despite playing for Chelsea between 2004 and 2007. VIDEO: Scroll down to watching Robben and Ribery bemoaning heavy defeat . In action: But Arjen Robben, shooting past Fabio Coentrao, won't watch Chelsea and Atletico's semi-final . That's not football: David Luiz (left) against Diego Costa in last week's match which Robben 'couldn't watch' Robben slammed the quality of football on display in last week's first leg in Madrid, which ended in a 0-0 draw. Quizzed on Wednesday night's crucial tie, Robben said: 'I don't really care. I watched the 90 minutes last week and I couldn't watch it. The match had nothing to do with football. 'I respect the two managers [Jose Mourinho and Diego Simeone] and everybody has their own way, but I think Real Madrid will win the Champions League and I wish them all the best.' Robben moved from Stamford Bridge to Real in 2007 and revealed his disappointment at not getting one over his old side. He said: 'It's a massive disappointment. We were very hopeful, the atmosphere was great and we tried everything we knew. 'We . attacked from the off, but when you concede two goals from set plays . you know it's all over, and then we let in another one. We knew we were . playing the world's best counter-attacking team.' Dejected: Robben looks at Cristiano Ronaldo after Real's fourth goal in Bayern's routing on Tuesday . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Robben part of Bayern Munich side beaten 4-0 by Real Madrid on Tuesday . Holland winger doesn't care if former club Chelsea make the final . Robben says he couldn't watch Chelsea-Atletico first leg . Bayern star says that match 'had nothing to do with football' Robben tips another of his former sides, Real, to win Champions League . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Robben part of Bayern Munich side beaten 4-0 by Real Madrid on Tuesday . Holland winger doesn't care if former club Chelsea make the final . Robben says he couldn't watch Chelsea-Atletico first leg . Bayern star says that match 'had nothing to do with football' Robben tips another of his former sides, Real, to win Champions League .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Associated Press . Nancy Pfister, 57, died from a blunt force injury to the head at her home in Aspen, a coroner said on Wednesday . A socialite who was found dead in her home in Aspen was killed by a blunt force injury to her head, the Pitkin County coroner said on Wednesday. Nancy Pfister, 57, was hit with a hard object that had a small, curved shape. She had been dead about 36 hours before her body was found on February 26, coroner J. Steven Ayers said. Prosecutors have filed first-degree murder charges against three people, including a couple who had rented Pfister's home while she was in Australia. William Styler III, 65, and his wife, Nancy Styler, 62, were arrested on March 3 after moving out of the home on about February 22. Katherine Carpenter, 56, an assistant to Pfister and a bank employee, was arrested on March 14. Authorities said she called 911 to report she found Pfister's body in a closet of the home. Investigators have been tight-lipped about the case, and key court documents have been sealed. Ayers said his office wasn't covered by the court order sealing the files. His report contains some of the only details about the case to be made public. Prosecutors have filed a motion to unseal other documents, saying no more arrests are expected so there is no longer a reason to keep the files closed. Some media organizations have also asked the court to release the documents. William Styler III, 65, and his wife, Nancy Styler, 62, were arrested on March 3 after moving out of the home on about February 22 . Defense attorneys have told the judge they oppose the release. Pfister . was the daughter of the late Betty and Art Pfister, longtime prominent . Aspen residents who co-founded the Buttermilk ski area west of town. Buttermilk Mountain has hosted the Winter X Games multiple times. Pfister's death was the first homicide case in Pitkin County in 12 years, not counting those classified as murder-suicides. The Stylers and Carpenter are being held without bond. They are scheduled to return to court April 23. Pfister wrote on Facebook on February 3 . that 'the people that were supposedly taking care of my house are not . doing what they said they would do and they're not paying rent and they . haven't paid utilities'. Over the years Pfister had paid . Carpenter, an employee at two Apline bank branches in Aspen, to manage . her property and to walk her dog, Gabe, who came with the $4,000-a-month . lease. On February 6, . Pfister posted on Facebook that she was looking for new tenants and that . anyone interested should contact Carpenter. She subsequently returned from Australia and, days later, was found dead by Carpenter. Katherine Carpenter, 56, an assistant to Pfister and a bank employee, was arrested on March 14. Authorities said she called 911 to report she found Pfister's body in a closet of the home . Juliana Pfister attended those . proceedings surrounded by friends, telling ABC News that she couldn't . believe someone would kill her fun-loving mother because of an alleged . rent dispute. 'How could someone just be so angry that they got kicked out of a house?' she said. 'There's got to be something more. It's hard to understand that.' Investigators spent weeks at Pfister's house, which remained an active crime, removing many boxes and files as evidence. County Sheriff Joe DiSalvo has released few details about the resort town's first murder investigation since 2001. 'This is a very important case,' he said. 'It just doesn't happen in Aspen.' Ms Pfister, pictured left with her daughter Juliana, wrote on Facebook that she was returning early from Australia as she was having trouble with tenants who were not paying the rent . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Nancy Pfister, 57, was hit with a hard . object that had a small, curved shape, and had been dead about 36 . hours before body was found on February 26 . First-degree murder charges have been filed against 3 people, including a couple who had rented Pfister's home while she was in Australia . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Nancy Pfister, 57, was hit with a hard . object that had a small, curved shape, and had been dead about 36 . hours before body was found on February 26 . First-degree murder charges have been filed against 3 people, including a couple who had rented Pfister's home while she was in Australia .

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<s>[ARTICLE] It's a dog’s life for the nation’s mutts – who are becoming anxious and aggressive through lack of play, experts fear. A study of 4,000 dog owners has found a clear link between limited playtime and behaviour problems, such as being nervous when left alone, disobedience and snapping at other animals. And while researchers can’t be sure that playing less is directly to blame, they say that games provide vital intellectual stimulation and exercise. Scroll down for video . I want to go and play! Behavioural problems in dogs could be linked to a lack of play, said a study (file photo) The Bristol University study showed that only one in five owners play with their dogs six times a day. Half play two or three times a day and 10 per cent have just one play session. Mark Evans, former chief vet for the RSPCA, said that dogs are one of the few animals to play into adulthood. He told the Sunday Times: ‘There is a clear association in the results. Owners report more potential behaviour problems in dogs that play less.’ Emily Blackwell – who conducted the research unveiled tonight on Channel 4’s Dogs: Their Secret Lives – said dogs often enjoy playing so much that they slow down or change strategy to make the fun last longer. The lecturer in canine welfare hopes that 10,000 people will eventually fill out the survey. This will enable her to firmly establish whether lack of play is affecting dogs’ moods – or if their emotional problems put their owners off spending time with them. Walkies: It's not just exercise that helps our pets - games including 'chase' and 'fetch' are important too . For instance, they may slow down when playing ‘chase’, allowing their owner to catch up with them and the game to continue. Favourite games include wrestling, chase and tugging at toys, and perhaps unsurprisingly, ‘fetch’ topped the list. Tennis balls were the favourite toys, followed by soft, squeaky toys, rubber balls and rope toys. The research comes just days after an animal charity warned that millions of dogs are becoming fat, aggressive and destructive because their owners are clueless about basic animal care. The PDSA said that treats including beer, chips and leftover takeaways are making dogs fat and unwell – and warned that almost a million are never taken for a walk. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Bristol University study questioned 4,000 pet owners on their habits . It found games provide vital stimulation and exercise for most dogs . Tennis balls were favourite toys, followed by rubber balls and ropes . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Bristol University study questioned 4,000 pet owners on their habits . It found games provide vital stimulation and exercise for most dogs . Tennis balls were favourite toys, followed by rubber balls and ropes .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Bianca London . PUBLISHED: . 10:09 EST, 3 June 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 10:09 EST, 3 June 2013 . She is the bubbly blonde multimillionaire we are more accustomed to seeing posing in her sexiest lingerie. But Michelle Mone, 41, swapped her bust-boosting bra for a sturdy sports one to spend a day going commando - at a gruelling military training centre. The brains behind lingerie giant Ultimo was put through her paces when she visited the Royal Marines base 45 Commando RM Condor in Arbroath, Scotland. Michelle Mone OBE, the CEO of MJM International, paid a visit to the Royal Marine (RM) Condor for a look at what the Royal Marines do . The underwear mogul spent a day with the elite fighting force to get a taste of their punishing training course. She also paid a visit to the camp's Woodlands Garden, a remembrance garden opened in honour of the unit's fallen comrades. After a day of exhausting activities, Michelle, 41, spent time with Colour Sergeant Paul 'Baz' Barrett who suffered disabling injuries in Afghanistan from an improvised explosive device (IED). Michelle said: 'I never anticipated how tough it was going to be. I really was pushed to my limits. These guys are machines and do an amazing job for our country.' The bra queen was put through her paces when she visited the Royal Marines base 45 Commando RM Condor in Arbroath . She continued: 'I've never witnessed such extraordinary physical strength, mental resilience and team cohesion. They all deserve as much support as they can get.' Michelle was left battered and bruised after taking part in target training, tackling the camp's 'death slide', abseiling from 100ft, and participating in a gruelling two-mile gun run, in a bid to raise money to maintain the base remembrance garden. Michelle was in great spirits, despite recently suffering issues in her personal life. The tycoon spent a day with the elite fighting force to get a taste of their punishing training course . After 19 years of marriage, her husband Michael - the father of her three children - left her in 2011 and embarked upon a relationship with Samantha Bunn, a close family friend and senior Ultimo employee. Then, after a bitter divorce that cost Michelle £24 million when she was forced to buy Michael out of the family’s Ultimo lingerie business, he announced he was setting up a rival lingerie firm - with Bunn as his chief designer. But judging by these photographs, Michelle is fighting fit and happier than ever. She also stopped by the Woodlands Garden, a remembrance garden opened in honour of the unit's fallen comrades . We are more accustomed to seeing the entrepreneur in a sexy set of lingerie . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Visited Royal Marines base 45 Commando RM Condor in Arbroath, Scotland . Spent a day raising money for camp's remembrance gardens . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Visited Royal Marines base 45 Commando RM Condor in Arbroath, Scotland . Spent a day raising money for camp's remembrance gardens .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Lizzie Parry . PUBLISHED: . 11:07 EST, 1 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 11:24 EST, 1 January 2014 . One glance at these heart-warming pictures and it is clear why penguins make the perfect parents. Mothers and fathers are seen struggling to raise their offspring in the midst of harsh blizzards and freezing conditions. This colony of King Penguins were captured huddling together during a storm in Right Whale Bay, South Georgia island. A new book by photographer David Tipling includes the journey of two adult Emperor penguins as they bring up their chick . A line of adult King Penguins make the long journey back to the sea for food . A young Emperor Penguin chick nestles on its mother's foot, seeking warmth in the cold conditions . Renowned wildlife photographer Mr Tipling has included 130 photographs in his new book. Each of the world's 17 types of penguins is photographed in the collection . A pair of Gentoo penguins are captured getting aggressive with one another . In his new book Penguins: Close . Encounters, photographer David Tipling documents a penguin parent's . struggle against adversity to raise their chick. The . collection of 130 photographs showcases the birds in their natural . habitat. Photos of each of the world's 17 types of penguins are included . in the book. The couple are pictured creating a heart shape, craning their heads over their offspring. Meanwhile another shot captures a group of young penguins huddling together to protect themselves from the icy winds. The collection reveals an insight into all aspects of penguin life. Here a group of Gentoo penguins take the plunge in search of their next meal . Many of the images taken by Mr Tipling were shot on the island of South Georgia, north of Antarctica and close to the southern tip of South America . A King Penguin stands tall, bearing its chest, on the beach at St Andrews Bay in South Georgia . A group of young penguins huddle together to shelter themselves from the icy winds . A pair of Emperor Penguin chicks taking a nap on Snow Hill Island in Antartica . And . a tiny baby seeks shelter on its parent's feet while another image . shows a line of adults making the arduous march back to the sea for . food. To capture the series of images Mr Tipling said he trekked to some of the most remote and beautiful locations in the world. Renowned . wildlife photographer, Mr Tipling, who has worked freelance since 1992, . said: 'My latest book is a visual celebration of a group of birds that . have given me more pleasure to observe and photograph than any other.' A King Penguin shows off its swimming skills as it heads for the shoreline . A colony of King Penguins braves the harshest of conditions with ice storms to contend with as they bring up their young . The images are all brought together in Mr Tipling's new book Penguins, Close Encounters . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Photographer David Tipling charts all aspects of the life of a penguin in his new collection of images . The renowned wildlife photographer spent time following one pair of Emperor penguins as they reared their chick . 130 shots are brought together in Penguins Close Encounters, which includes images of each of the 17 species . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Photographer David Tipling charts all aspects of the life of a penguin in his new collection of images . The renowned wildlife photographer spent time following one pair of Emperor penguins as they reared their chick . 130 shots are brought together in Penguins Close Encounters, which includes images of each of the 17 species .

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<s>[ARTICLE] A young Chinese worker struck down with leukaemia while working in a factory that makes Apple’s iPhones has died – days after his mother pleaded in The Mail on Sunday for Apple chief executive Tim Cook to help save her son’s life. Yi Long is at least the sixth worker to die of leukaemia after falling ill at the factory complex in Shenzhen, southern China, in a cluster of cases families believe may be triggered by the chemicals handled by workers. Yi, whose case was highlighted in a Mail on Sunday investigation, fell into a coma five days ago and was taken by his family from a hospital near the factory after doctors declared there was no hope. Yi Long, 25, (right) has become the sixth person to die of leukaemia after working at at an iPhone factory in China. His mother, Cheng Fuying, (left) appealed to Apple CEO Tim Cook days ago . He died in his family’s village home in rural Hunan province on Friday night and was buried yesterday on what would have been his 26th birthday. His distraught parents said they had been refused financial help by the factory, run by Apple contractor Foxconn, to pay for his cancer treatment and were unable to afford a bone marrow transplant. Apple said that a four-month investigation into 22 final assembly facilities found ‘no evidence of worker health and safety being put at risk’ The Mail on Sunday revealed a fortnight ago how at least 13 workers in their late teens and 20s at the massive Foxconn complex employing 230,000 people had contracted leukaemia since 2010. Five had already died. Foxconn factories make electronic goods for a number of big international brands, including Apple. Sections of its operation are dedicated to iPhones and an Apple source said last week the Guanlan plant where Yi and four of the other five fatal leukaemia cases worked was a dedicated iPhone factory. Families and a labour rights group supporting them believe chemicals used in the production process may have caused the leukaemia. But Taiwan-based Foxconn insists blood cancer rates among workers are lower than the national average. Yi was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2011, 20 months after he started work at Foxconn. His mother Cheng Fuying protested outside Foxconn with the families of other leukaemia victims in 2012, pleading for help with medical bills, but said they were denied a meeting with factory managers and threatened with arrest unless they left. After her son’s funeral yesterday, she said: ‘I want justice for my son.’ A fortnight ago, she issued an appeal through the MoS to Apple CEO Tim Cook, saying: ‘If you have a conscience, Apple should at least make sure my son’s disease is treated.’ An Apple spokesman said yesterday that a four-month investigation into 22 final assembly facilities found ‘no evidence of worker health and safety being put at risk’. He added: ‘We care about every worker in our world-wide supply chain and work tirelessly to ensure their right to a safe and healthy work space. We were saddened to hear of the Yi family’s loss and wish to express our deepest condolences.’ In an earlier statement, Foxconn said the incidence of leukaemia among its employees across China was ‘significantly lower than the reported national annual rate’. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Yi Long, 25, fell ill with leukaemia while working at Apple iPhone factory . He is the sixth worker to die of the disease at the complex in China . His parents said they had been refused financial help by the factory . Mother Cheng Fuying issued an appeal to Apple CEO Tim Cook 14 days ago . Mr Long died on Friday in rural Hunan province and was buried yesterday . At least 13 workers at the factory have contracted leukaemia since 2010 . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Yi Long, 25, fell ill with leukaemia while working at Apple iPhone factory . He is the sixth worker to die of the disease at the complex in China . His parents said they had been refused financial help by the factory . Mother Cheng Fuying issued an appeal to Apple CEO Tim Cook 14 days ago . Mr Long died on Friday in rural Hunan province and was buried yesterday . At least 13 workers at the factory have contracted leukaemia since 2010 .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Sophie Borland . PUBLISHED: . 19:20 EST, 14 June 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 19:22 EST, 14 June 2013 . Two-thirds of GPs would support industrial action – including a strike – if the Government ordered them to work out-of-hours, a survey has found. And a similar proportion say they would refuse to look after patients in the evening and at weekends even if they were offered a hefty pay rise. One doctor said it was an ‘over my dead body issue’ while another threatened to charge patients £50 for an appointment. In most areas, care at evenings and weekends is provided by private firms. Critics claim they are seemingly more concerned about their profits than patients . Ministers are considering making GPs take back responsibility for their patients at evenings and weekends amid growing concerns over the standards of care during this time. Family doctors were allowed to give-up working out-of-hours under a contract negotiated by Labour in 2004 in return for a small pay cut. In most areas, care at evenings and weekends is provided by private firms, whom critics claim are seemingly more concerned about their profits than patients. There is concern that deteriorating standards of out-of-hours cover is partly to blame for the ongoing crisis on accident and emergency wards. The Mail has repeatedly highlighted concerns about the state of out-of-hours care and we recently revealed how the largest firm, Harmoni, was using nurses, who are cheaper, to cover doctors’ shifts. Last month Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt announced that the GP contract would be rewritten to ensure they are responsible for patients out-of-hours. Ministers are considering making GPs take back responsibility for their patients at evenings and weekends amid growing concerns over the standards of out-of-hours care . The exact details will be thrashed out over the coming months but it is unlikely that doctors will have to be on-call personally at evenings and weekends. Instead, it is more probable they will be made to be directly responsible for the firms providing care out-of-hours and take the blame if anything goes wrong. But a survey of 400 GPs by Pulse magazine found that 69 per cent would not take back responsibility ‘at any price’. A quarter said they would do it if given £20,000 pay-rise – their average annual salaries are now £104,100. And 62 per cent said they would . support some form of industrial action if Mr Hunt made them take back . responsibility for out-of-hours care. Eighty-nine per cent said they would refuse to be responsible out-of-hours for the most vulnerable patients including the elderly or terminally ill . Forty-nine per cent said they would not take back responsibility even if they did not have to be on-call themselves. Eighty-nine . per cent said they would refuse to be responsible out-of-hours for the . most vulnerable 5 per cent of their patients – including the elderly or . terminally ill. The Royal . College of General Practitioners recently suggested family doctors . should consider looking after such patients. One GP, Dr Mary Church, . from Blantyre, south Lanarkshire, said: ‘This is an over my dead body . issue.’ Another anonymous . doctor said: ‘The only option is resignation – we will still see . patients but for a fee, say £50 for 15 minutes. Those that don’t want to . pay can go to see those wonderful A&E doctors.’ Dr . Thomas Bloch, who practises in Broadway, Worcestershire, said: ‘This . would be a recipe for disaster. We would get the blame for any . shortcomings. This is the only reason the Government wants to be shot of . it.’ Although GPs’ pay was . cut under the 2004 contract if they opted-out of evening and weekend . work, most saw their pay increase by an average of 50 per cent because . of a new bonus scheme that enabled them to earn cash for treating . certain illnesses. Joyce Robins, of campaign group Patient Concern, said: ‘It’s a disgrace the way GPs work at the moment. 'There is some form of out-of-hours care but it’s usually by doctors you don’t know, including many from abroad, and they get it wrong. ‘GPs should be made to at least take it in turns to do the occasional out of hours shift.’ Dr Richard Vautrey, of the British Medical Association, which represents GPs, said: ‘If the Government is mad enough to go down that road, industrial action would be the least of their worries. GPs would vote with their feet and leave the profession and then you’d have a crisis in in-hours care as well.’ A separate survey by the Royal College of General Practitioners found that half of family doctors felt so overworked they were unable to guarantee safe patient care. Many are worried about making mistakes or missing crucial symptoms because they are exhausted. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Two-thirds of GPs said they would refuse to look after patients in the evening and at weekends . Eighty-nine per cent said they wouldn't care for the elderly or terminally ill out-of-hours . Survey showed a quarter GPs would take on out-of-hours work if they were paid £20,000 more . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Two-thirds of GPs said they would refuse to look after patients in the evening and at weekends . Eighty-nine per cent said they wouldn't care for the elderly or terminally ill out-of-hours . Survey showed a quarter GPs would take on out-of-hours work if they were paid £20,000 more .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Lagos, Nigeria (CNN) -- Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan officially declared Saturday that he will run in the 2011 elections, lauding his achievements in reforming the oil, banking and electricity sectors. "I have decided to humbly offer myself as a candidate in the presidential primaries of our party the great PDP (People's Democratic Party)," he said. Jonathan's official declaration comes three days after he informally announced on Facebook that he intended to run in the primaries, which will be held between October 18 and 20, according PDP spokesman Rufai Alkali. "In presenting myself for service, I make no pretense that I have a magic wand that will solve all of Nigeria's problems or that I am the most intelligent Nigerian," Jonathan wrote on his Facebook page Wednesday. He took a more confident stance Saturday, announcing that under his presidency, all petrol refineries are now working, the banking sector has been reformed, electricity has been stablized and steps have been taken to fix roads, water, education and food production. He also said he has set in progress free and fair elections. Jonathan's eligibility was in question until last month, when the People's Democratic Party said he could run in an open race with other candidates next year. Under Nigerian "zoning" rules, power must shift to different regions and ethnic groups every eight years. Jonathan -- who is from the Niger Delta, in the south -- was part of the joint ticket of the late President Umaru Yar'Adua, who was from the north. Yar'Adua's death in May, after a long illness, upset the order of the zoning. Yar'Adua was elected in 2007 and his southern replacement threatened to halt the north's turn at holding power. On Friday, four main contenders from the north announced they will put forth a single candidate to challenge Jonathan. CNN's Christian Purefoy contributed to this report. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] President Goodluck Jonathan will run in next month's primaries . He lauds achievements made under his leadership . A bloc of politicians from the country's north plan to challenge Jonathan . [/SUMMARY]</s>

President Goodluck Jonathan will run in next month's primaries . He lauds achievements made under his leadership . A bloc of politicians from the country's north plan to challenge Jonathan .

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<s>[ARTICLE] These are the first pictures inside the first Hard Rock Hotel to open in Europe - where prices for suites will cost guests up to £1,400 a night. Located on the party island of Ibiza, the five-star resort is now taking bookings, gearing up for its official grand opening celebration on June 13. As well as boasting Ibiza’s largest spa, the hotel – in Playa d’en Bossa – is also home to Sublimotion – the most expensive restaurant in the world at £1,235 a head. Scroll down for video . Room with a view: The Rock Suite Diamond inside the new Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza . Luxury hotel: Inside the Studio Suite Platinum, which boasts a balcony . And relax: One of the Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza's swimming pool - complete with a bottle of champagne . At the property, Hard Rock International’s 20th hotel, guests can choose to stay in one of the 493 rooms, boasting private pools, ocean-front balconies and outdoor Jacuzzis. The most exclusive rooms include the Rock Suite Legend – complete with Bob Marley memorabilia – as well as the two-bedroom rooftop Rock Star Suite, which boasts beachfront views, living and dining room, two bathrooms, a private outdoor terrace and a private Jacuzzi. VIP services, including access to some of Ibiza's most exclusive clubs and restaurants, will also be offered to guests. High-end holiday: The Hard Rock Gold suite boasts a bathtub with a beach view . New opening: The pool-view Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza suites which boasts their own sunloungers . Garden suite: An alfresco chill-out area where guests can enjoy a glass of bubbly . The hotel boasts two swimming pools with swim-up bars, private cabanas and attentive poolside service. True to the musical roots of its location, Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza will offer live music and DJ performances including on its 2,500-guest outdoor concert terrace. Artists already lined-up to play this summer include Ellie Goulding, UB40, Snoop Dogg and Robin Thicke.And the opening party in June features Grammy-Award winning artist Nile Rodgers. When it comes to food, Hard Rock Ibiza is going all-out to impress its guests. On the rocks... a balcony view over the beach from one of the luxury rooms at the new hotel . Modern design: The Rock Suite Platinum with neon lighting and a beachfront view . Fresh look: The resort is the first Hard Rock Hotel to open in Europe . Sublimotion – two Michelin-star chef, Paco Rancero's newest creation, offers diners a 20-course ‘an experience for all of the senses’. While restaurants include The Beach Club, with Mediterranean cuisine; Estado Puro serving tapas; breakfast eatery Sessions; 3rd Half, a sports bar and lounge; and The Ninth Sky Lounge, an enormous, rooftop sky lounge featuring spectacular panoramic views over the Mediterranean coastline. Hamish Dodds, chief executive officer of Hard Rock International, said: ‘The synergies between Hard Rock's key differentiator, music, and Ibiza's distinguished scene as a famed cultural centre for electronic dance sound and a renowned hub for international artists make for a perfect marriage. ‘We look forward to enhancing the destination's celebrated nightlife bringing unmatched hospitality to our new location on the beautiful shore of Playa d'en Bossa.’ Soak with a view: Gold suite guests can sip a glass of champagne while lounging in the bath in their hotel suite . Live like a rock star: Inside one of the Platinum luxury hotel suites at the Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza . Good enough to share: A twin bed with ensuite bathroom inside a Deluxe Silver room . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Five-star hotel is gearing up for huge opening weekend in June . The Playa d'en Bossa resort has announced soft-launch phase . First Hard Rock Hotel in Europe has 493 rooms and will host live music . Suites boast outdoor Jacuzzis, private pools and ocean-front balconies . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Five-star hotel is gearing up for huge opening weekend in June . The Playa d'en Bossa resort has announced soft-launch phase . First Hard Rock Hotel in Europe has 493 rooms and will host live music . Suites boast outdoor Jacuzzis, private pools and ocean-front balconies .

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<s>[ARTICLE] His entrepreneurial spirit is undeniable. Inspired by TV show Dragons’ Den, Tommie Rose targeted a gap in the market at his school – selling crisps and fizzy drinks, which are banned under a ‘healthy eating’ policy. His smuggled snacks are so popular that he claims to have earned £14,000 in just three years, and even employs two other pupils. Tommie, 15, says he is saving the cash to pay for tuition fees if he fulfils his dream of winning a place to study business at Oxford or Cambridge. Business prowess: Tommie Rose, 15, has managed to earn a staggering £14,000 by selling chocolate, sweets and fizzy drinks in the playground of his school in Salford, Greater Manchester . However, he has fallen foul of teachers, who have threatened to suspend him for undermining school policies aimed at combating obesity. Yesterday their stance was slammed by entrepreneurs including Dragons’ Den star Deborah Meaden, who wrote online: ‘[Tommie] doesn’t need a degree in business ... He’s a natural.’ The teenager, who is in Year Ten at Buile Hill Visual Arts College in Salford, Greater Manchester, said yesterday: ‘I got the idea from watching Dragons’ Den and feeling I could do something like that.’ He operated a similar undercover tuck shop at his previous school, Oasis Academy, but was repeatedly suspended and eventually expelled. Buile Hill headmaster James Inman said: ‘We admire this pupil’s entrepreneurship but school is not the place to set up a black market.’ Tommie’s father Gary, a 33-year-old office worker, said: ‘From our point of view, he’s not selling cigarettes, alcohol or drugs ... he’s selling sweets, which teenagers are always going to consume no matter where they buy them from.’ However, a school source said Tommie was disruptive at school and well short of being Oxbridge material. ‘He was taken on from his previous school in good faith on the understanding that he wouldn’t set up another miniature tuck shop,’ they added. Warning: James Inman, headmaster at Buile Hill Visual Arts College, above, has told Tommie that he will be suspended unless he shuts down his playground business . Aspirations: The entrepreneurial teenager has been saving thousands in a trust fund in the hope of paying for a business degree from Oxford or Cambridge . Previous school: Tommie left Oasis Academy, in Salford, above, in 2011 after they suspended him for ten days over his playground sweet business . While business owners are required to register their companies  - the HMRC suggested it was extremely unlikely Tommie would be pursued for failing to do so. A spokesman said: 'There are penalties for failure to notify where someone has started a business and not let us know. 'But we would never penalise a young entrepreneur for his industry and imagination in starting a business from scratch, off his own back.' [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Tommie Rose, of Salford, buys sweet stock in bulk from discount stores . For the last three years the entrepreneur has been selling to classmates . Teenager makes up to £70 cash every day and puts money into trust fund . Ambitious schoolboy saving for business degree at Oxford or Cambridge . But headmaster says he is breaching school's strict healthy-eating policy . Dragons Duncan Bannatyne and Theo Paphitis have tweeted support . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Tommie Rose, of Salford, buys sweet stock in bulk from discount stores . For the last three years the entrepreneur has been selling to classmates . Teenager makes up to £70 cash every day and puts money into trust fund . Ambitious schoolboy saving for business degree at Oxford or Cambridge . But headmaster says he is breaching school's strict healthy-eating policy . Dragons Duncan Bannatyne and Theo Paphitis have tweeted support .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Will Stewart . PUBLISHED: . 19:12 EST, 22 June 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 20:21 EST, 22 June 2013 . Former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev last night dramatically intervened in media tycoon Alexander Lebedev’s battle to avoid jail over a TV studio fracas with a property mogul. ‘It was no more than a minor incident that does not even deserve a court hearing,’ said the 82-year-old Russian elder statesman. His statement amounts to a powerful criticism of the legal system under President Vladimir Putin which has doggedly pursued the newspaper owner in what is widely condemned as a show trial. Ally: Lebedev, left, has received the support of Gorbachev (pictured together at the Evening Standard . Lebedev, 53, faces up to five years in jail after being charged with the draconian offence of hooliganism motivated by ‘political hatred’ for striking businessman Sergei Polonsky after a barrage of provocation. Unlike Polonsky, who is believed to have jumped bail in Cambodia and is now thought to be hiding in an Israeli bolthole, Lebedev – funder of the Independent titles and the London Evening Standard – has rejected the chance to flee abroad and is ready to face the Russian courts. Polonsky is seeking to gain Israeli citizenship to avoid being extradited to Russia where he faces separate legal action over £121 million fraud and embezzlement charges. ‘I know Alexander as a good man, a person who is free in his judgment and speaks his mind on the economy, public affairs and politics,’ Gorbachev told The Mail on Sunday in a exclusive statement last night. ‘He takes full advantage of the freedoms brought to our country by Perestroika. I also know him as a civil society activist who has supported charitable projects particularly in the area of children’s health. Moral man: Alexander Lebedev and Elena Perminova with sons Nikita, 3 and Egor,1, is facing a battle to avoid jail . ‘On the eve of the 300 anniversary of St Petersburg, he financed the building of the Childhood Leukaemia Centre which was named after Raisa Gorbachev. I think that speaks to his character as a moral man.” The charge against Lebedev is controversial, with some supporters claiming it is driven by the Kremlin and amounts to an attack on media freedom. Lebedev, with Gorbachev, is an owner of hard-hitting investigative newspaper Novaya Gazeta which regularly exposes alleged corruption in the Russian elite. However, Lebedev last week hit out at the Western media for portraying the legal action as a vendetta by Putin. Lebedev’s son Evgeny – now in charge of the family’s UK newspaper interests – has said his father’s life could be in danger if he is sent to prison. The case resumes tomorrow and a verdict is likely in July. ‘My choice is between, I think, a year in prison and a big fine,’ said the tycoon after Friday’s hearing. It has been branded a farce with one prosecution witness asked to give evidence after she stepped off a bus in Moscow, purely on the basis that she saw the TV show. Last week, the judge refused to probe claims that Polonsky is in Israel and not – as his lawyers claim – on bail in Cambodia where he is accused of kidnapping and assault. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Lebedev could be jailed for a TV studio fracas with property mogul . Widely believed Putin is setting it up as a 'show trial' Gorbachev labels Lebedev as 'a good man' [/SUMMARY]</s>

Lebedev could be jailed for a TV studio fracas with property mogul . Widely believed Putin is setting it up as a 'show trial' Gorbachev labels Lebedev as 'a good man'

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<s>[ARTICLE] Millions of young children dreamed about being Ariel while watching the Disney film as a child, but few did much more than request the doll on their Christmas list. But for some, the appeal of a mermaid is clearly much stronger. The annual Merfest convention in Cary, North Carolina, saw over 300 men and women come together to celebrate being mermaids last month. Scroll down for video . The annual Merfest in North Carolina sees hundreds of people come together to celebrate being 'merfolk' Attendees took workshops on underwater modelling and how to hold their breath, and also swam with Hannah Fraser, a professional mermaid and environmental activist. The event is not for the fair-weather mermaid fan, with die-hard merfolk spending up to £2,500 ($4000) on their colourful tails, which can be made to feel as close to fish scales as possible. Putting on a tail requires a lot of effort, so a lot of the merfolk have a mertender - a spouse or friend - to assist them in an out of their tails at poolside. Not only do these mertenders help their own mermaid or merman, they often help the others around them, by using a lubricant like coconut oil. This year's event saw over 300 men and women gather at a swimming pool for the event . 'Merfolk' can spend up to £2500 ($4000) on their colourful tails . As well as their tails, enthusiasts adorn themselves with wigs, tiaras and of course the classic shell bra . It is near impossible to put your own tail on so each mermaid has their own mertender, a person who assists them into their costume using lubricant and coconut oil . Sean Norman, a mertender, says that the act of getting your scales on is anything but glamorous. He said: 'It's tricky getting some of these tails on. They're kind of grippy on the skin and it's an awkward situation. 'You can't look graceful getting into these things, so what I try to do is just help out a little bit and ease that moment of frustration so you can get to the fun part.' The unusual event was all captured on camera by photographer Arthur Drooker, 60 from California, who took the pictures as part of his book Conventional Wisdom, which sees him travel around unconventional conventions around the US. The act of getting scales on is anything but glamorous . Merfest is a place for those with fully formed and fledgling mersonas, where they can foster this personality without fear of being judged by their own family . Arthur, who has been a keen photographer since he was 15, said: 'For a lot of them, the desire to be a mermaid was spawned in childhood after seeing a movie, reading a book, going to the beach or an aquarium. 'They embodied an idealised self: a beautiful, graceful and confident person.' Arthur says that as well as dressing the part, the convention gives merfolk the freedom to take on their own mermaid character. 'To emulate a mermaid, one developed a mersona, akin to the personality of a mermaid or merman.' This year's Merfest saw the first wedding - between Cookie Ramirez and her mertender, Ralph de Jesus . He continued: 'Merfest is a place for those with fully formed and fledgling mersonas, where they can foster this personality without fear of being judged by their own family.' This year's Merfest saw the first wedding - between Cookie Ramirez and her mertender, Ralph de Jesus. Cookie, who describes herself as a 'mermaid through and through' - wore a shiny tail while Ralph donned a tuxedo T-shirt and black swim trunks. Well-wishers splashed their tails to congratulate the happy couple as the ceremony came to an end. The happy groom says that Cookie's mermaid persona has given her a new lease of life. Merfest sees a people empowered by their transformations . People's demeanors completely change once they put on their tail . 'Ever since Cookie got involved with merfolk, I've seen a difference in her. 'I see her when she gets into the water, she just floats and you see the smile on her face and that's what brings me enjoyment. 'She totally changes when she puts on that tail.' Arthur added that he had also noticed a change in Cookie's demeanor when she wore her special fins. He said: 'Like many merfolk, Cookie feels transformed when she puts on her tail. 'For her, being a mermaid is a position of freedom and creativity and it's broadened her perspective on life. 'There's empowerment in the transformation and everyone at Merfest feels nurtured by it.' [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] The annual Merfest takes place in Cary, North Carolina . Hundreds of men and women dressed up for watery event . Enthusiasts dress in custom made tails that cost up to £2,500 . [/SUMMARY]</s>

The annual Merfest takes place in Cary, North Carolina . Hundreds of men and women dressed up for watery event . Enthusiasts dress in custom made tails that cost up to £2,500 .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Anna Hodgekiss and Emma Innes . PUBLISHED: . 10:30 EST, 6 June 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 01:35 EST, 7 June 2013 . A mother who was told she could not hug or touch her children because her cancer treatment meant she was radioactive has finally been given the all-clear. Emma Day, 27, was given strict instructions to stay two metres from anyone after she underwent a pioneering programme of treatment for thyroid cancer which left her emitting harmful rays. She was initially hospitalised in an isolation ward but doctors allowed her to return home - as long as she did not go near her six-year-old daughter or one-year-old twins. Emma Day (pictured with husband, Jon, and their three children) was unable to cuddle her children after cancer treatment made her radioactive . But now, after three long weeks, the mother from Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, has been given the all-clear meaning she can finally kiss and cuddle her children once more. Mrs Day said: ‘It was amazing just being able to hug my children again. The week before had been really difficult. ‘I was really surprised when the doctors told me I had the all-clear, and I certainly didn't expect it to happen that quickly. ‘They were a bit surprised themselves. ‘I was really struggling with not being able to be near my children, and it was really emotional especially when the children were crying and I couldn't go to them.’ Mrs Day said she rushed home to cuddle her children as soon as doctors told her it was safe. For three weeks she had to stay at least two metres from the children meaning she had to watch from a distance while her husband, Jon, played with them . Mrs Day had to take high doses of iodine as part of her treatment for thyroid cancer. This was the second time she had fought cancer as she suffered from leukaemia as a child . ‘People sometimes take their children for granted and just to be able to hug them again was a perfect moment,’ she added. Mrs Day was first diagnosed with thyroid cancer in January this year after seeing a doctor for a lump in her throat. It is the second time she has battled cancer, after defeating leukaemia as a child. She first thought the lump in her throat was a swollen gland but doctors soon realised the six-centimetre growth was cancerous after an operation to remove half of it. Mrs Day (pictured with her husband, Jon, and their eldest daughter on the couple's wedding day) was diagnosed with thyroid cancer after finding a lump in her throat . As part of her treatment, Mrs Day underwent a pioneering programme which saw her placed in an isolation unit at Cheltenham General Hospital. For her particular type of cancer, some patients receive radioactive iodine treatment – a form of internal radiotherapy. The treatment involves a radioactive form of the element called iodine 131, administered as a drink or capsule, which circulates throughout the body in the bloodstream. Thyroid cancer cells pick up the iodine wherever they are in the body, and the radiation kills them. Other cells are left unaffected, because only thyroid cells take up the iodine. She had now been given the all-clear and can cuddle her children again - she will have another scan in six months time to ensure that the cancer has not returned . She was initially so radioactive anything she touched inside had to be thrown away and she had only a phone for company. She was allowed home three weeks ago, but was forced to watch from a distance as her children played and were looked after by her family. Throughout her treatment Mrs Day kept a blog and more than 80 bloggers rallied around her, posting messages of support. She said: ‘My blog became therapy for me because I could share how I was feeling. They have been there to support me and to cheer me up, and I am very thankful for that. ‘I have only met a few of them, but they were really encouraging during those days.’ Mrs Day will have a scan in six months to see whether she will have to undergo the treatment again, but for now she is determined to make the most of being close to her family. Radioactive iodine treatment is a type . of internal radiotherapy. The treatment uses a radioactive form of . iodine called iodine 131 (I-131). The radioactive iodine circulates . throughout the body in the bloodstream. Radioactive iodine treatment is a type of internal radiotherapy, administered as a capsule or drink . Thyroid cancer cells pick up . the iodine wherever they are in the body. The radiation in the iodine . then kills the cancer cells. Radioactive iodine is a targeted treatment. It doesn't affect other body cells, because only thyroid cells take up the iodine. The treatment is usually administered as a drink or capsule. Patients having radioactive iodine treatment in hospital are looked after in a single room until their radiation levels have fallen again. The treatment causes the patient to be slightly . radioactive for a few days, so time spent with staff and visitors . is minimal. Sweat and urine also become radioactive, so bedsheets are changed every day and patients have to flush the loo more than once. Pregnant women and . young children will not be allowed to visit. Even 12 weeks after treatment, patients who have had radioactive iodine therapy may set off radiation alarms at airports. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Mother-of-three, Emma Day, 27, from Cheltenham, had thyroid cancer . Was given high doses of radioactive iodine as part of her treatment . Was left radioactive and had to stay two metres away from her children . Has now been given the all-clear and can cuddle her children again . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Mother-of-three, Emma Day, 27, from Cheltenham, had thyroid cancer . Was given high doses of radioactive iodine as part of her treatment . Was left radioactive and had to stay two metres away from her children . Has now been given the all-clear and can cuddle her children again .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Sara Malm . Experts are recreating the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand to establish whether a contemporary bulletproof vest could have prevented WWI. By using a replica of a silk vest said to have been owned by the Archduke, and a pistol of the same type used to murder Franz Ferdinand and his wife Sophie, researchers at the Royal Armouries in Leeds hope to find out whether the Great War could have been stopped. It is thought that the Archduke owned a piece of silk bodyarmour, but that he did not wear it on the fatal morning in Sarajevo in June 1914. Could this have stopped the war? Researchers in Leeds are set to test a replica of a silk bulletproof vest thought to have been owned by Archduke Franz Ferdinand and a pistol like the one used to murder him in 1914 . Historic moment: Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife Duchess Sophie of Hohenberg, pictured in the back of their car shortly before the assassination in Sarajevo on June 28, 1914 . The assassination of Franz Ferdinand . and Sophie by Serbian nationalist Gavrilo Princip on June 28, 1914, is . widely acknowledged to have sparked the outbreak of the First World War. The . idea of the re-creation of the event came after Lisa Traynor, a Royal . Armouries' First World War researcher,  found a pistol almost identical . to the one used by Princip. ‘I stumbled across a Browning Model 1910 self-loading pistol, the same type used to assassinate the Archduke,’ Ms Traynor said. ‘Upon . examining its serial number, I realised it was only 516 away from the . actual pistol used in the assassination and would probably have been . manufactured around the same time. ‘This . made me think about the 'what if scenario' surrounding the death of the . Archduke. If he hadn't been killed, would the war have been delayed? It is thought Franz Ferdinand owned a silk bulletproof vest like the one pictured here, but he did not wear it on the fatal morning in Sarajevo . Historic event: An painting from July 1914, depicts the moment Serbian separatist Gavrilo Princip shoots Franz Ferdinand and Sophie . ‘After months of independent research . in international archives and with the assistance of international . academics on the subject, I discovered that it was entirely possible . that the Archduke may have owned a piece of body armour.’ Now . experts at the National Firearms Centre in Leeds have tried to . replicate the conditions of the Archduke's assassination, to make . testing as accurate as possible. Royal Armouries' tests involve recreating replica silk vests, made to the original patent's specifications. Sharpshooting: The researchers will test the vest against the 1914 pistol . These replicas have been fired at with the same type of pistol and ammunition and from the same distance as the original event. Ms . Traynor said: ‘Our First World War team thought it would be interesting . to test the theory of silk body armour against the Browning Model 1910, . to understand the ballistic capabilities of 19th century body armour . against 20th century firepower.’ ‘I don't want to pre-empt the next round of tests, however I can report that silk does have bullet-stopping capabilities! So this research could result in very exciting results.’ The vests were created by a priest-turned-inventor Casimir Zeglen, whose product were sold globally and were bought by European royalty and heads of state. His armour comprised organic layers, most notably silk, which had the ability to resist bullets. Further experiments to test the capabilities of late 19th century body armour against20th century firepower will go ahead in early September. However, initial results have borne out a widely-held theory that silk does have bullet-stopping capabilities. This research will also form part of a new permanent exhibition at the Royal Armouries in Leeds, called 'Bullets, Blades and Battle Bowlers', which is due to open in September. Ms Traynor will also present an international paper focused on the research at the . International Committee for the History of Technology's Conference in Romania, which runs from July 29 to August 2. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Franz Ferdinand and wife Sophie were shot dead on June 28, 1914 . Experts test replica jacket with pistol identical to one used in Sarajevo . It is thought Archduke owned silk vest, but did not wear it that day . Researchers hope to find out whether WWI could have been stopped . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Franz Ferdinand and wife Sophie were shot dead on June 28, 1914 . Experts test replica jacket with pistol identical to one used in Sarajevo . It is thought Archduke owned silk vest, but did not wear it that day . Researchers hope to find out whether WWI could have been stopped .

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<s>[ARTICLE] In their smart uniforms and happily holding hands, two little girls start school yesterday. Sisters, perhaps, or twins? No – they are actually aunt and niece. Daisy Wilson and her niece Ruby Stephenson, both four, are in the same class at primary school in Chorley, Lancashire. Their mothers, Alison Wilson, 43, and her 25-year-old daughter Ashley Stephenson, gave birth in next door hospital beds just 72 hours apart. Scroll down for video . Daisy Wilson (right) and her niece Ruby Stephenson (left), both aged four, started primary school together . Daisy (left) is four days older than her niece - the girls have been inseparable since they were born . The girls' mothers, Alison Wilson, 43, and her 25-year-old daughter Ashley Stephenson, gave birth in next door hospital beds just 72 hours apart . Daisy arrived first, making her three days older than her niece. The girls have been inseparable ever since and Mrs Stephenson, who is married to Mike, said: ‘It is lovely knowing that Daisy and Ruby have somebody they are close to in the same class.’ Since Daisy’s birth Mrs Wilson and her husband Chris have had a third daughter, Heidi, two, while Mrs Stephenson has had another girl, Darcy, one. Mrs Wilson said: ‘It is difficult for people to understand that Daisy and Heidi are Ruby and Darcy’s aunties!’ The grinning girls may look like twins but they are actually auntie and niece . Daisy (left) and Ruth (right) are in the same primary school class in Chorley, Lancashire . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Daisy Wilson and her niece Ruby Stephenson, both four, are in the same class at primary school in Chorley, Lancashire . Their mothers, Alison Wilson, 43, and her 25-year-old daughter Ashley Stephenson, gave birth in next door hospital beds just 72 hours apart . Daisy arrived first, making her three days older than her niece . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Daisy Wilson and her niece Ruby Stephenson, both four, are in the same class at primary school in Chorley, Lancashire . Their mothers, Alison Wilson, 43, and her 25-year-old daughter Ashley Stephenson, gave birth in next door hospital beds just 72 hours apart . Daisy arrived first, making her three days older than her niece .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Lydia Warren and Michael Zennie . PUBLISHED: . 20:45 EST, 8 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 07:00 EST, 9 August 2013 . The California man suspected of kidnapping a 16-year-old girl and murdering her mother and brother may be armed with homemade bombs and grenades and might have also rigged his car with explosive booby traps, police are warning. The announcement comes as authorities say they have widened their search for James DiMaggio, 40, and Hannah Anderson, 16, to all of North America, as they admit they do not know where he could be. Investigators believe DiMaggio has ditched his blue Nissan Versa as he fled San Diego County with Anderson. 'Working on the theory that he abandoned the car, we think there is a possibility that the car might be rigged,' San Diego County Sheriff's Office spokeswoman Jan Caldwell told CNN. Scroll down for video . Missing: Ethan Anderson, 8, and his sister Hannah, 16, have been missing since Sunday, when their mother's body was found in a burned down home. A second body at the scene could belong to Ethan, police said . Suspect: The body was found in the home of James DiMaggio, a family friend who police believe snatched Hannah. Friends said he had a crush on the 16-year-old girl, who did not like being alone with him . 'So we want to put out there for . civilian safety, for officer safety, if you see the car, do not approach . it but call law enforcement.' Police fear DiMaggio is armed with other improvised explosives, as well, and could use them as weapons if confronted. The manhunt was launched after the . murdered body of Hannah's mother, 42-year-old Christina Anderson, was . found at DiMaggio's burned home on Sunday night. A child's remains were found in the . garage and are believed to by the body of Hannah's eight-year-old brother Ethan. A source told the Los Angeles Times that investigators believe Christina was bludgeoned to death with a crowbar. DiMaggio was described as being like an uncle to the children. But Hannah's friend, Marissa Chavez, said . Wednesday that DiMaggio had developed a crush on Hannah and told her that he would . date her if they were the same age. 'He . said he had a crush on her, but didn't mean it in an intimate way,' 15-year-old Marissa Chavez told The San Diego Union-Tribune. 'He said, . "If I was your age, I'd date you."' Have you seen it? DiMaggio's car is a blue Nissan Versa with California license plate 6WCU986 . Several reported sightings of . DiMaggio's Nissan were made in northern California and southern Oregon . earlier this week, leading investigators to initially believe that he . was headed for the Canadian border. Amber Alerts have been issued for California, Oregon and Washington. On Thursday, authorities added Nevada to the list. 'Basically the search area is the United States, Canada and Mexico,' Sheriff's Lieutenant Glenn Giannantonio told the Times. 'Basically the search area is North America.' Canadian and Mexican border authorities are on the lookout for DiMaggio and his young hostage. Authorities believe DiMaggio, an avid outdoorsman, could be hiding out in a campground or wilderness area. Search: 16-year-old Hannah Anderson in a Facebook photograph. Police have issued an Amber Alert in the hunt for her and her brother Ethan after their mother was found dead in a burnt out property near San Diego . Beautiful: Hannah's Facebook page shows her as a popular teenage girl who loved dancing . Chavez, Hannah's friend, said she witnessed the . exchange when DiMaggio was driving them . home from a high school gymnastics meet. Hannah asked Chavez to join her . from then on whenever DiMaggio drove her to meets because she was . uncomfortable with the attention, according to Chavez. 'She was a little creeped out by it. She didn't want to be alone with him,' Chavez said. She . also said that DiMaggio took her to Hollywood in late June or early . July for her birthday, and that he cut the week-long trip short because he was . upset that Hannah was paying more attention to her phone than to him. Worries: Hannah, right, asked a friend to join her whenever she took a ride from DiMaggio, right . DiMaggio took Hannah (far left and far right) to Hollywood for her birthday, but cut the week-long trip short because he was upset that Hannah was paying more attention to her phone than to him . 'After that she never responded to his texts and e-mails,' Chavez told the San Diego newspaper. DiMaggio was in a 'close platonic relationship' with Hannah, a sheriff’s statement said without further explanation. Brett Anderson, Christina Anderson's husband and father to Hannah and Ethan, flew to San Diego Tuesday to be interviewed by investigators and to plead with DiMaggio to return his daughter safely. 'Jim, . I can't fathom what you were thinking. The damage is done,' he said . outside San Diego County Sheriff's Department headquarters. Addressing Hannah, he said he loves her very much and pleaded, 'if you have a chance, you take it. You run. You'll be found.' Sorrow: Their father, Brett Anderson, pleaded for the children's safe return at a candlelit vigil on Tuesday . Athena Stewart lights a candle during a vigil for Hannah, 16, and Ethan, 8, Tuesday night . Mr Anderson lives in Tennessee after moving away from the area for a job a few months ago. On . Tuesday, Mr Anderson joined hundreds of family friends and neighbors at . a candlelight vigil in the parking lot of El Capitan High School in . Lakeside, where Hannah was about to start her junior year. Pink . paper cups stuffed between holes in the fence read 'Pray Hannah' and . dozens of white, blue and pink balloons lifted into the air. At the vigil, Mr Anderson and other family members address the large crowd. 'Hannah . will come back and Ethan and Tina, I love you both,' he said. 'We all . love you. I know everybody’s here for support of all three of them and I . want to thank you all. God bless.' Destroyed: The body of the children's mother, Christina, was found in DiMaggio's burned down house . The remains of a home owned by 40-year-old James Lee DiMaggio, a suspect in the murder of 2 people, is shown in the Boulevard neighborhood of San Diego County . Her Facebook page reveals a popular teenage girl with a passion for dance. She was also a gymnast on her high school team. 'You would never see her without a smile on her face,' said Marlee Friszell, 16, who attended Hannah's birthday party last week. Ethan Anderson liked to play football and baseball and go fishing, neighbors said. DiMaggio is believed to be driving a blue Nissan Versa with California license plate 6WCU986. He is described as white, 5-feet-9-inches tall, weighing 150 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes, and is currently clean-shaved without the goatee beard seen in his photo. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Massive manhunt underway for James DiMaggio after bodies of Christina Anderson, 42, and a child were found in his burned home on Sunday . Her children, Hannah, 16, and Ethan, 8, are missing - although authorities believe the child's body found in the house could be Ethan's . Possible sightings of DiMaggio's car in northern California and Oregon . Friends: He had a crush on Hannah who did not like to be alone with him . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Massive manhunt underway for James DiMaggio after bodies of Christina Anderson, 42, and a child were found in his burned home on Sunday . Her children, Hannah, 16, and Ethan, 8, are missing - although authorities believe the child's body found in the house could be Ethan's . Possible sightings of DiMaggio's car in northern California and Oregon . Friends: He had a crush on Hannah who did not like to be alone with him .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Los Angeles (CNN) -- Dr. Conrad Murray, who was Michael Jackson's personal physician, is refusing to testify in the wrongful death lawsuit that the singer's mother filed against concert promoter AEG Live. If called, he will plead the fifth so as not to incriminate himself, the doctor said in a statement sent to the Jackson family. Murray has never been questioned under oath about Jackson's death, which occurred on his watch. He did not testify at his trial, where he was found guilty of causing Jackson's death on June 25, 2009, by administering a deadly overdose of sedatives and the surgical anesthetic propofol in what he told police was an attempt to cure the singer's insomnia. He is serving a four-year sentence but could be out in two. On Monday, he was supposed to be deposed in the wrongful death suit. But lawyers for Jackson's mother, Katherine, and her three children called off their jailhouse visit because Murray swore "he would not answer any questions at the deposition or the trial," Jackson lawyer Kevin Boyle told CNN. He said the Jackson case would not suffer without his testimony. AEG's lawyer suggests the Jacksons canceled Murray's deposition because his testimony would "destroy" their case. "They are not interested in the truth," said the lawyer, Marvin Putnam. Asserting his 'Fifth Amendment privilege' The cancellation came after Murray's attorney Valerie Wass sent the Jacksons a sworn statement signed by Murray making it clear he would not answer any questions while his involuntary manslaughter conviction in Michael Jackson's death is being appealed. "Accordingly, if I am called or ordered to testify at deposition or trial in the Katherine Jackson vs AEG wrongful death case, I will be asserting my Fifth Amendment privilege against self-incrimination and refuse to answer any questions," Murray's declaration said. Jury selection in the civil trial is set to begin April 2 in a Los Angeles County court. Prince Jackson, the pop star's oldest son, is expected to testify about his father's last days. Jacksons: Focus back on AEG . The Jackson lawsuit contends that AEG Live is responsible for Jackson's death because it hired and supervised Dr. Murray, who was administering the surgical anesthetic propofol to Jackson each night for a month to induce sleep as he prepared for a series of concerts organized by AEG Live. A jury found Dr. Murray guilty of involuntary manslaughter after hearing testimony that he violated medical standards in his treatment of Jackson. "Dr. Murray's choice to keep quiet puts the focus back on the company, AEG, that hired Dr. Murray and agreed to pay him over $1.5 million a year, and provide Murray with a large house and drivers and other perks, to make sure that the company's biggest asset, Michael Jackson, made it to the shows on time, no matter what," Boyle, the Jacksons' lawyer said. A judge ruled last month that Jackson lawyers could question Murray at the Los Angeles County jail, where he is serving his prison sentence. AEG: Testimony destroys Jacksons' claim . "The Jacksons told the world that they wanted Dr. Murray's deposition, and then when the Court gave it to them, they canceled it," Putnam, the AEG lawyer, told CNN on Sunday. "They have had all of their claims dismissed except negligent hiring, and they don't want Dr. Murray to be deposed because he will tell them what he already told the police: that he worked for Michael Jackson; that Michael Jackson, not AEG, was his employer; and that Michael Jackson personally invited him to join the 'This is It' tour long before anyone at AEG had even heard of him. The Jacksons canceled the deposition because that testimony destroys the only claim they have left. They are not interested in the truth." Back and forth . The Jacksons' lawyer argued, in response to Putnam's comment, that AEG was not interested in having Murray take the stand in the trial. "AEG did not even try to get Dr. Murray to talk," Boyle said. "AEG is simply not telling the truth. AEG can't run from the fact that they hired the man who is in jail for killing the greatest entertainer the world has ever known." Wass, who unsuccessfully objected to the deposition, said she advised Murray to invoke his Fifth Amendment right to not answer questions because of his appeal. The appeal brief is expected to be filed next week. Jacksons plan to use e-mails . Jackson died two weeks before his "This Is It" comeback concerts, organized by AEG Live, were to have debuted in London in the summer of 2009. E-mails the Jackson's plan to use in their case suggested that the promoter was worried about Jackson's missed rehearsals and they sought Murray's help in getting him ready. Prince, Paris and Blanket Jackson and their grandmother contend that AEG Live's pressure on Murray to have Jackson ready for daily rehearsals despite his fragile health led to his death from the propofol overdose. A cornerstone of the Jacksons' case is an e-mail AEG Live co-CEO Paul Gongaware wrote 11 days before Jackson's death. The e-mail to show director Kenny Ortega addressed concerns that Murray had kept Jackson from a rehearsal the day before: "We want to remind (Murray) that it is AEG, not MJ, who is paying his salary. We want to remind him what is expected of him." Jackson lawyers, calling it a "smoking gun," argue the e-mail is evidence that AEG Live used Murray's fear of losing his $150,000-a-month job as Jackson's personal physician to pressure him to have Jackson ready for rehearsals despite his fragile health. Billions at stake . The lawsuit seeks a judgment against AEG Live equal to the money Jackson would have earned over the course of his remaining lifetime if he had not died. If AEG Live is found liable, it could cost the company several billion dollars, according to estimates of Jackson's income potential. AEG Live is a subsidiary of AEG, a global entertainment company that was recently for sale with an $8 billion asking price. The company announced last week it was no longer for sale. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Murray: "I will be asserting my Fifth Amendment privilege against self-incrimination" Jackson lawyers cancel deposition of Murray . The Jacksons claim AEG Live bears responsibility for pop icon's death . AEG: Jacksons canceled deposition because Murray would "destroy" their case . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Murray: "I will be asserting my Fifth Amendment privilege against self-incrimination" Jackson lawyers cancel deposition of Murray . The Jacksons claim AEG Live bears responsibility for pop icon's death . AEG: Jacksons canceled deposition because Murray would "destroy" their case .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Trevor Quinn At Mailonline . The man who helped researchers gain access to the highest canopy of the Amazon rainforest has now created the UK's first treetop trampoline adventure park. With bridges, slides, giant trampolines, walkways and tunnels, Treetop Nets allows daredevils to explore the trees while up to 30 feet off the ground. The aerial attraction, set in the beautiful oak woodland of Brockhole near Windermere in Cumbria, is the 16th net adventure park to open in the world. The course, which spans over 1,200 square metres, is made of ropes and nets traditionally used in sailing. Participants are surrounded by three-metre-high walls of netting and do not require a harness. Treetop Net was constructed by Cedric Chauvaud, one of the world's best sailor and rope experts, and his team of seven ex fishermen and sailors. He said: 'I went to help researchers in the Amazon rainforest to gain access to the high canopy, so I designed a series of rope bridges and nets which allowed them to study the forest without causing damage. 'Once I saw it put together I thought what a great idea it would be replicate as a children's playground.' Cedric and his team spent six weeks at the Windermere site construction the exciting new park. Mike Turner, who owns both the treetop nets and its neighbouring high ropes attraction tree top trek, said: 'They used fishing needles to sew (or lash) the nets together to create the 3D shapes and elements, like the slides and bridges, before lifting them into the trees with ladders to attach them to cables. There was an amazing art to how it was all done.' All participants at Treetop Net are completely surrounded by 3m high walls of netting for safety reasons . Young children and teenagers enjoying the views of the sprawling oak woodland at Treetop Net in Cumbria . Two young boys race around excitedly at Treetop Net which is the UK's first treetop trampoline adventure park . The mix of thrills and spills, nature and fun makes this unique adventure park an ideal family day out . A young boy runs through a narrow walkway in the midst of spectacular oak woodland in the Brockhole park . Treetop Adventure: The UK's first ever treetop canopy trampoline has opened in the Lake District . Hanging around: The new adventure park boasts 1,200sqm of net tunnels, bridges and giant trampolines stretching high across the tree canopy . The abundance of ropes and nets covering the 1,200 square metres park were traditionally used in sailing . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Treetop Net is first for UK and is set in the lush woodland of Brockhole near Windermere, Cumbria . Swing, climb, balance and fly through the ancient oak woodland canopy course that spans 1,200sqm . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Treetop Net is first for UK and is set in the lush woodland of Brockhole near Windermere, Cumbria . Swing, climb, balance and fly through the ancient oak woodland canopy course that spans 1,200sqm .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Hugo Gye . Pope Francis would be willing to baptise Martians if they came to Earth and asked to become Catholics, he said yesterday. During his daily mass, the leader of the Roman Catholic church said that no one should be denied entry into the church for any reason. He joked that even if space aliens were 'green men, with a long nose and big ears, like children draw', they deserved to be baptised if they wanted. Welcoming: Pope Francis, pictured at an ordination ceremony for new priests, says aliens deserve baptism . 'If tomorrow, for example, an expedition of Martians arrives and some of them come to us... and if one of them says, "Me, I want to be baptised!", what would happen?', Francis said, according to AFP. He added that the early church had an officer charged with welcoming people in to the building, but 'it was never the ministry of the closed door'. The Pope's comments came as he discussed the passage of the Bible in which St Peter is criticised for baptising non-Jews into the Christian church. However, they are likely to be seen as a coded jab at Francis' conservative critics who may have objected to his policy of openness towards poor and marginalised groups. In January, the Pope courted controversy by baptising the child of an unmarried couple in the Sistine Chapel. Embrace: The Pope insisted he would welcome visitors from Mars if they sought to be baptised . Ceremony: Francis ordained 13 priests during a service at the Vatican Basilica yesterday . Francis' joke about baptising aliens is not the first time that the Catholic church has intervened in the debate over the possibility of extraterrestrial life. In 2010, Vatican scientist Guy Consolmagno said that although he did not expect to find life on other planets, aliens would be welcome to join the church. 'God is bigger than just humanity,' he said. 'God is also the god of angels. 'Any entity - no matter how many tentacles, it has has a soul.' Track record: The Vatican has its own observatory, pictured, and has long been a leader in astronomy . And in 2008, the official Vatican newspaper published an article by an astronomer titled 'Aliens Are My Brother', in which an astronomer insisted that it was not irreligious to search for extraterrestrial life. The Vatican has its own observatory, with one telescope situated outside Rome and another in Arizona. The church's interest in astronomy began as a way of calculating the calendar and determining the date of Easter. Throughout the 20th century, the Vatican became a pioneering force in astronomical research, and photographs of never-before-seen astronomical phenomena were first captured at the papal observatory. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Francis told audience at mass that he would baptise 'green men with a long nose and big ears' if they wanted it . Comment came as Pope insisted that everyone deserves to be baptised . Vatican astronomer previously said that aliens have souls 'no matter how many tentacles' [/SUMMARY]</s>

Francis told audience at mass that he would baptise 'green men with a long nose and big ears' if they wanted it . Comment came as Pope insisted that everyone deserves to be baptised . Vatican astronomer previously said that aliens have souls 'no matter how many tentacles'

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Olivia Fleming . PUBLISHED: . 10:57 EST, 10 August 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 05:18 EST, 11 August 2012 . Nike-made victory shirts proudly worn by the U.S. women's soccer team after their gold medal win against Japan last night have caused a backlash from critics. After winning 2-1, the U.S team returned to the field wielding the American flag while wearing big smiles, and T-shirts with slogans that read 'Greatness Has Been Found.' Critics, viewers and fans across the globe cringed, panning the 'tacky', 'humility-lacking' and 'graceless' shirts on Twitter. Greatness has been found: The victory Nike shirts proudly worn by the U.S. women's soccer team after their gold medal win against Japan last night has caused a worldwide backlash . Jerrad Peters, a soccer writer for . Canada's The Score, wrote: 'USA players have donned t-shirts reading . "Greatness has been found." That, in a nutshell, is why no one outside . the US likes them.' But for a beloved team, widely viewed as America's own wonder women, the criticisms may be seen as a case of sour grapes towards a country currently charging ahead in medal counts. Canada's loss to the U.S. women's soccer team on Monday caused its own fair share of controversy, after the referee made several calls toward the end of the second half that left the Canadians not just heartbroken, but angry, according to the Toronto Star. Forward Melissa Tancredi said: 'I couldn’t believe what happened. That was our game. That was our win. And it was just taken away.' Christine Sinclair, who scored all . three of Canada's goals, added: 'We feel like we didn’t lose, we feel . like it was taken from us.' MailOnline commenters have weighed in on the debate, with Rosie from Bootle, England, writing: 'For gods sake, Canada just seem like sore losers to me. 'Why can Usian Bolt act like the most arrogant, cocky, full of himself and rude man on earth, but a bunch of talented football players can't wear some t-shirts? Foolishness, probably because they're women. Besides, I'm English, and I like them.' Loud and proud: After winning 2-1, the U.S team returned to the field wielding the American flag, big smiles and T-shirts with slogans that read 'Greatness Has Been Found,' critics, viewers and fans to cringe . Celebration: The Olympic display of victory shirts with such a definitive slogan has been labelled by commentators as tacky with a blatant disregard for sportsmanship . However America's . own Ben Rothenberg, a sports writer for the New York Times, also appeared offended by the teams' Nike victory shirts. He tweeted: . '"Greatness has been found," but not humility. Gross.' Members of the team were handed the . shirts immediately after their win, a common ritual for big victories in American team sports. Was the U.S. women's soccer team justified in wearing victory T-shirts? After the Super Bowl and NCAA basketball title games, for example, the winning teams will sport victory gear usually branded with the generic 'Champions'. However the Olympic display of victory shirts with such a definitive slogan has been labelled by commentators as tacky with a blatant disregard for sportsmanship. Sports Illustrated's Courtney Nguyen tweeted: 'Put those t-shirts away, USA. Keep it classy.' While no-one has blamed the women on . the team for wearing shirts they were handed, many are angry at the . 'go-betweens' for Nike and the U.S team. The San Fransisco Chronicle wrote: 'They should have realized the way those shirts could have been perceived. Raised eyebrows: Jerrad Peters, a soccer writer for Canada's The Score shared his thoughts on Twitter . Critics criticize: New York Times writer Ben Rothenberg was one of many to pan the 'humility-lacking' Nike shirts on Twitter . 'Wearing a personalized shirt at an . Olympics that seems to rub the loss in face of defeated opponents plays . into the stereotype of ugly Americanism. For the fans: Nike is selling the victory T-shirts on its website for $30 . 'If people who were rooting for . the women’s soccer team found them off-putting, imagine the reaction of . the rest of world.' The gold-winning team's victory shirts isn't the only celebratory symbol that has raised eyebrows during this year's Olympics, however. During a game against New Zealand, the U.S. women's soccer team capped its victories with cartwheels, front flips and a team rendition of the "worm" - sometimes even during the middle of the game. New Zealand coach Tony Readings, after her team's 2-0 loss, said: 'I wouldn't like it if our team did that. We try to work on scoring goals. We haven't got time to work on celebrations.' Tennis star Serena Williams celebrated her Olympic gold with a 'Crip Walk' - a dance that originated with the Los Angeles street gang and later spread around the world. While her sister Venus, sitting in the stands, looked delighted, Wimbledon, the very proper home of the All-England Lawn Tennis Association, had never seen anything like it, and a few commentators were not amused. 'It was just me,' the U.S. medalist said later. 'I love to dance.' [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] The Nike-made shirts featured the slogan Greatness Has been Found . [/SUMMARY]</s>

The Nike-made shirts featured the slogan Greatness Has been Found .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Pornography is to be banned from public wi-fi networks by the end of the year, David Cameron’s children’s czar said last night. Claire Perry said the move was vital to prevent children from stumbling across adult material when using wireless internet networks in places such as cafes and railway stations – or seeing others who may be downloading it. But one of the country’s largest internet providers has threatened to throw a spanner in the works by warning that ministers’ plans to block porn from public wi-fi could be against the law. The move is intended to stop children from viewing porn online when in public . BT was accused of ‘dragging its heels’ over an agreement to filter its public wi-fi services by raising at the last minute its concerns that it could open itself to legal challenges. The company claims blocking adult material from stores which use BT public wi-fi could breach 2000 legislation which bans the interception of electronic communications. Last year the Daily Mail revealed that coffee chain Starbucks, which uses BT, had failed to filter adult material from its free wi-fi – putting children of seeing obscene porn on other customers’ tablets or mobile phones. Starbucks has now imposed a filter. But Mrs Perry, the Prime Minister’s children’s czar, said she was still hopeful that hardcore porn would be filtered out of all public wi-fi networks by the end of the year. The six largest providers of public wi-fi – accounting for 96 per cent of coverage – have agreed to put adult content block in place. BT has been accused of 'dragging its heels' about the move after they saw problems with it . High Street companies offering free wi-fi from one of the six companies, which includes BT, would then be encouraged to put the block in place to protect children using mobile phones and tablets like iPads. These shops would be able to display a ‘family friendly’ logo so parents know their children will be safe. Mrs Perry, Mr Cameron’s adviser on children, said: ‘I’m really pleased that the internet industry is committed to providing public wi-fi that is free of adult content. It is entirely appropriate and means that children can surf the web safely in thousands of different places. ‘Now we need to move fast in introducing family-friendly home internet filtering to make sure that our young people are not accessing violent and pornographic images.‘The terrible recent story of the teenage girl raped by boys who had become addicted to internet porn only underpins how important these changes are.’ Children's Czar Claire Perry said that the move was vital to prevent children from stumbling across adult material when using wireless internet networks . Last month the Prime Minister hinted that action was on the cards when he said: ‘We are promoting good, clean, WiFi in local cafes and elsewhere to make sure that people have confidence in public WiFi systems so that they are not going to see things they shouldn’t.’ The web companies agreed to raise their game at the latest meeting of the UK Council for Child Internet Safety, which brings together children’s charities with ministers and the online industry. However, no timetable has yet been set but it is hoped the blocks will be in place by the end of the year. The six firms are O2, Sky, BT, Virgin, Arqiva and Nomad. And minutes of the meeting, held last month, reveal that BT is dragging its heels over the changes. Anne Heal, the representative from BT Openreach, said: ‘There is considerable nervousness that filtering content could be regarded as intercepting data, and which could put providers in breach of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000.’ The Act allows certain public bodiesto intercept data for national security reasons – but bans everyone else from doing so. BT’s argument is that filtering web use without the user’s express permission could be regarded as the interception of data. But children’s charities say the Act only applies to emails and other personal information, not the sites people are able to visit. One campaigner present at the meeting said: ‘People were completely astonished at BT’s timidity. But equally the fact that the government seem to be dragging their feet hardly inspires confidence.’ BT also raised the possibility of charging companies which use its public wi-fi service extra for imposing a filter. They said it would be on a cost recovery basis, and that they would not make a profit. But the campaigner said: ‘Filtering porn on wi-fi should be standard. Nobody should have to pay extra to do the right thing. ‘That’s how O2, Sky and Virgin do it. Yet there was a suggestion that BT were going to make it an optional, paid-for extra.’ A spokeswoman for BT said: ‘BT, along with other internet service providers, supports the objectives of the government and our customers for providing a family friendly internet through the deployment of filtering solutions for adult and pornographic content in the home and with our wi-fi partners. ‘We have merely sought clarification regarding the potential legality of a particular approach to intercepting content in order to ensure that our customers, employees and shareholders are not put at risk.’ [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Children's czar Claire Perry said that the move is 'vital' BT has been accused of 'dragging its heels' over the issue . The move would stop children from viewing the material when in public . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Children's czar Claire Perry said that the move is 'vital' BT has been accused of 'dragging its heels' over the issue . The move would stop children from viewing the material when in public .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- Los Angeles may have become famous for many things over the years -- Hollywood and the Oscars to name but two -- but downtown living is not one of them. What big star of the silver screen could resist the lure of suburban mansions in Bel Air and Beverly Hills after all? Now, a host of new city developments aim to change all that. At least half a dozen major real estate projects are underway in the LA's downtown areas and several others are in the works. One of the largest development will see property firm Mack Urban turn a collection of parking lots in the city's South Park district into 1,500 new apartments. "We anticipate our build out taking between eight to ten years so this is a long term investment and development plan," explained Paul Keller, CEO of Mack Urban. The company intends to invest up to $750 million in South Park, enticed by the proximity of the nearby LA Live complex which includes the Staples Center -- home of the Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers, the Nokia Theatre, and several hotels, restaurants and bars. This will attract a clientele who are looking to live, work and play in the same area, Mack Urban hopes. "What's driving investment and development here in South Park has really been the continuation of a massive investment that AEG (Anschutz Entertainment Group) made beginning with the development of the arena here in downtown," said Keller, in reference to the Staples Center. All in all, South Park can expect to see nearly 300,000 square meters (3.2 million square feet) of residential and hospitality living come online by 2020, according to commercial real estate firm JLL. JLL also say land sales in the area now average nearly $500 dollars per square meter ($47 per square feet), more than double what the going rate was just five years ago. International investors like Greenland Group are paying close attention to these numbers. The Chinese real estate investment firm have already spent more than $140 million on a 2.5 acre parking lot that they plan to transform into a massive condominium project called Metropolis. "We see a lot of opportunity here for education and also for urban living," said Ifei Chang, CEO & President, Greenland USA. "We believe this should be also with the domestic population, it should be an international community here right in the city." Greenland expects to spend up to a billion dollars on building the Metropolis and expects that projects like theirs -- along with planned infrastructure improvements like the LA streetcar project currently in build -- will make downtown living the next trend in Los Angeles. If the planets biggest movie stars are spotted moving into the South Park district in the coming years, then they can judged to have been correct. See also: Suburbia gone wild . See also: Architects build first 3D printed house . See also: Giving Motown a replay . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] New property developments are on the rise in downtown Los Angeles . International and local real estate companies are investing in a host of new city projects . Some of the most popular can be found in the city's South Park area . [/SUMMARY]</s>

New property developments are on the rise in downtown Los Angeles . International and local real estate companies are investing in a host of new city projects . Some of the most popular can be found in the city's South Park area .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Sara Malm . PUBLISHED: . 15:14 EST, 4 January 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 16:55 EST, 4 January 2013 . An archeological team are heading to Burma in the hopes of unearthing dozens of British Spitfires said to have been buried there at the end of the Second World War. Over one hundred unused and unassembled aircrafts were supposedly buried in the Burmese jungle by the RAF in 1945. The 21-strong excavation team flying out tomorrow will include a 90-year-old war veteran who claims to have witnessed the burial of the Spitfires after the war ended. Exciting excavation expedition: A team leaving for Burma tomorrow hopes to find the up to 124 Spitfire planes they believe to have been buried in boxes in the jungle at the end of World War II (file photo) Some 36 planes are thought to be lying undiscovered in Mingaladon - one of three potential sites in the country - with as many 124 Spitfires buried in total. Farmer and aviation enthusiast David Cundall, from Lincolnshire, is spearheading the dig, having spent 17 years and thousands of pounds researching the project. Speaking at Heathrow Airport's Hilton Hotel, in London, he described plans to return the Spitfires to Britain for restoration to allow them to be flown again. ‘There's lot of rumours about why they were buried but the common theory is that they were buried after the war - in August and December 1945 - because they were surplus to requirements. Somebody gave the order, let's dig a hole and let's bury them. 'They will be restored to flying . condition and hopefully they'll be flying in about three years’ time at . air shows, and promoting British industry as well.’ High hopes: Aircraft enthusiast David Cundall, 62, has spent the past 17 years researching and investigating into the case of the missing Spitfires and will finally head to Burma tomorrow . The team includes British war veteran Stanley Coombe, from Eastbourne, who responded to Mr Cundall's appeal for witnesses who saw the Mark XIV Spitfires being buried 68 years ago. Mr Coombe, who is now in his early 90s, was stationed in Burma at the end of the Second World War and is one of eight eye-witnesses to come forward. The planes are believed to be buried some 25 to 30 feet below the ground, and Mr Cundall believes they may have been protected from erosion due to a lack of oxygen underground. Project archaeologist Andy Brockman said: ‘The archaeological team are treating this like a police mystery. We've . got a missing person, we've got a crime scene, and at the end we'll . hopefully have the evidence to base a case to say what actually happened . at Mingaladon in 1945.’ One of the Spitfires (pictured: the tail fins) being crated up in Burma in 1945 ready to be buried . Avengers re-assemble: The team hopes to be able to uncover the Mark XIV Spitfires in a good enough state so that they can be reassembled upon their return to Britain(file photo) Online gaming site Wargaming.net is providing financial support for the hunt, which is hoped will unearth the first Spitfire in about two weeks. The contract allowing the dig to go ahead will see the Burmese Government take 50 per cent of the value of aircraft recoveredm while Mr Cundall's share will be 30 per cent and his agent 20 per cent. It followed a meeting between Prime Minister David Cameron and Burmese president Thein Sein earlier this year where Burma agreed to lift the trade sanctions. Mr Cundall helped persuaded the country's notoriously secretive regime to allow him to search for the lost aircraft, winning their trust over several visits. The married father-of-three doggedly pieced together their possible location by speaking to the declining number of Far East veterans . He said at the time: 'I’m only a small farmer, I’m not a multi-millionaire and it has been a struggle. It took me more than 15 years but I finally found them. 'Spitfires are beautiful aeroplanes and should not be rotting away in a foreign land. 'They saved our neck in the Battle of Britain and they should be preserved.' Mr Cundall added: ‘I think this is on the same level as the Tutankhamun find in Egypt. ‘If we're successful, I'd like to repeat what archaeologist Howard Carter said then. 'Lord Carnarvon asked: “Can you see anything?”, and he replied: “Yes, wonderful things”.’ [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Over one hundred Spitfires believed to have been buried in Burma in 1945 . Excavation team will include war veteran who witnessed burial . Unused and unassembled Mark XIV Spitfires supposedly buried by RAF . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Over one hundred Spitfires believed to have been buried in Burma in 1945 . Excavation team will include war veteran who witnessed burial . Unused and unassembled Mark XIV Spitfires supposedly buried by RAF .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Neymar has been cleared to play for Barcelona by the team's doctors after recovering from a broken vertebra suffered during the World Cup. The forward is now available for selection and could feature in a friendly against Mexican club Leon at the Nou Camp on Monday. The 22-year-old hurt his back in a collision with defender Juan Camillo Zuniga during Brazil's 2-1 quarter-final win over Colombia. Ready for action: Neymar has been cleared to play after breaking a vertebra during the World Cup . Serious: Neymar screams in pain after suffering the injury during Brazil's quart-final win against Colombia . Deadly duo: Neymar trains with fellow forward Lionel Messi (right) ahead of a friendly with Mexican side Leon . That injury ruled him out of the semi-final against Germany, which Brazil lost 7-1 to the eventual champions. Luis Suarez is set to make his debut for Barcelona against Leon after the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled that the striker could train and take part in friendlies despite his four month ban for biting Italy's Giorgio Chiellini at the World Cup. Barca had been hoping the Uruguayan's ban would be reduced and that he could return to competitive action before October 26. Culprit: Colombia defender Camillo Zuniga (right), pictured in training with Napoli, caused Neymar's injury . Debut: Summer signing Luis Suarez is set to play for Barcelona for the first time against Leon on Monday . VIDEO Suarez already fits in to style - Enrique . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Neymar was injured in Brazil's World Cup quarter-final against Colombia . He has now been cleared to play again after returning to training with Barca . The Brazilian forward could play some part in a friendly with Leon . Luis Suarez is set to make his debut in the same match after being granted the right to train and appear in friendly matches . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Neymar was injured in Brazil's World Cup quarter-final against Colombia . He has now been cleared to play again after returning to training with Barca . The Brazilian forward could play some part in a friendly with Leon . Luis Suarez is set to make his debut in the same match after being granted the right to train and appear in friendly matches .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- What if browsing the internet felt like playing an arcade game? That's the idea behind a new website called OneTrueFan, which awards points -- and potentially real prizes -- to people just for trolling around online. The site, which opened to the public late Wednesday and launched at a conference hosted by the blog TechCrunch earlier this week, intends to apply the idea of "check-ins" to online media consumption. Smartphone apps like Foursquare and Gowalla popularized the idea of check-ins, which broadly refers to the act of telling people you're at a certain location or that you're doing a certain thing at that moment. It's a concept that's gone mainstream only recently. Facebook, with its 500 million members, picked up on the idea when it launched its "Places" feature in August. Foursquare and others let users "check in" to bars, restaurants and parks. Other apps like GetGlue let people check in while they're watching movies or reading books. Now those same mechanics are coming to the internet at large. After users install a Firefox plug-in for OneTrueFan, the site automatically checks you in each time you visit a new website. If it's your first time on the site, you get 10 points; if you've been there before, you get 1 point for each new page you visit within a certain domain. Those who share a link -- on Twitter, Facebook or Delicious, the bookmarking site -- are awarded with five points. People whose links actually drive traffic back to that website get one point for each click. The scores reset every two weeks. But who cares, right? What do these points actually mean? Eric Marcoullier, who co-founded OneTrueFan with business partner Todd Sampson, says the points create a sense of competition and community among users and could also result in real prizes. Those who visit a certain site most often are given "One True Fan" status, similar to the "mayor" status people achieve on Foursquare if they frequent a certain venue more often than anyone. People who have installed the OneTrueFan plug-in automatically see who is winning the race to be the biggest fan of that page. The also see the faces of other internet heads who happen to be look at the page at that time. Marcoullier says this creates an ambient feeling of community -- much the way shopping in a crowded store makes a person feel part of a group. "When you think about it, browsing the Web is an inherently sterile, isolated experience, but there are people at the same sites you go to," he said. "And it's not like you're going to sit there and talk to them while you're browsing." Instead, he added, it's nice just to know they're there. The site awards digital "patches" to people who complete certain challenges. For instance, if a person visits 1,000 different internet domains, he or she is awarded the "browser" patch. Sharing 100 links gets you the "broadcast" patch, and visiting five social networking sites in one day gets you the "socialite" patch. All of this feeds into the competitive spirit of the site, Marcoullier said. OneTrueFan does not let users contact each other through the site, but the service links in with peoples' Twitter and Facebook accounts, so users could get in touch that way if they wanted, he said. And as for the sites you'd rather the world not see that you visited? Users can undo check-ins on a particular site and their entire check-in history there will be deleted from OneTrueFan's servers permanently, Marcoullier said. The site does not save its users' entire browsing histories, he said. It only lists links that users have shared publicly on Facebook, Twitter and Delicious -- as well as whether a person gained or lost "One True Fan" status on a website. As for the real rewards, some stores give freebies or discounts to people who become mayors of locations on Foursquare. In much the same way, Web companies will be able to offer prizes to the people who achieve "One True Fan" status on their sites, Marcoullier said. For example, a tech-focused website might offer the top user a free iPod or a chance to preview an invitation-only site, he said. Marcoullier believes his plug-in makes the Web more social and fun. It's part of the coming "gamification" of our lives. OneTrueFan only had 700 "alpha" users as of Wednesday, before it launched to the public, he said. Those users had to request invitations to get an "alpha preview" of the new website. It's not the only new site trying to push the idea of website-based check-ins. Badgeville, which was a finalist in a contest for innovative startup companies at the TechCrunch Disrupt event this week, aims to work with media companies to develop loyal website users using similar techniques. "The Badgeville Platform offers turnkey widgets & an API that allow media sites, publishers, brands, marketers, and community managers to leverage game-based techniques to create highly engaging web experiences," the site says in an introductory blog post. "Users are rewarded with real-time achievements and reputation that help publishers achieve specific pre-defined and measurable business goals." Philly.com and TechCrunch are among Badgeville's current customers, according to a press release about the company. BigDoor Media is another company trying to sell game-like features to websites. It's unclear, however, how users will react to these new services. In a post on the blog ReadWriteWeb, Ethan Stillman says that the new sites that are adding "game mechanics" to websites are doing a better job than their predecessors, but that adding games to Web browsing can go terribly wrong. "Bad game mechanics are worse than no game mechanic because of that one jarring moment when your user realizes just how crappy the game mechanic is," he writes. "And it's at that moment when you have absolutely no control over where their mind wanders off to. They are flying free and you're just a speck on the radar." He adds: "This is going to get nutty, and awesome, very quickly." [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] The idea of the "check in" is coming to the internet . The term once referred to the idea of telling friends where you are . Now it applies to sharing the websites you're visiting . OneTrueFan, Badgeville and BigDoor Media are among those competing . [/SUMMARY]</s>

The idea of the "check in" is coming to the internet . The term once referred to the idea of telling friends where you are . Now it applies to sharing the websites you're visiting . OneTrueFan, Badgeville and BigDoor Media are among those competing .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Justin Welby was speaking at a Bible Society debate on ethics in finance . By . James Salmon . PUBLISHED: . 18:53 EST, 22 April 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 05:18 EST, 23 April 2013 . Britain is in the grip of a ‘depression’ and requires radical changes in banking to snap out of it, the Archbishop of Canterbury warned last night. Speaking at a Bible Society debate on ethics in finance, Justin Welby described the financial crisis as a ‘generational problem’ driven by a slump in confidence as much as a breakdown in the markets. He said: ‘What we are in the moment is not a recession but is essentially some kind of depression. It’s going to take something very major to get us out of it in the same way as it took something major to get us into it.’ Speaking at a Bible Society debate on ethics in finance, Justin Welby (pictured at Lady Thatcher's funeral) described the financial crisis as a 'generational problem' driven by a slump in confidence as much as a breakdown in the markets . The grim diagnosis comes ahead of the publication of official growth figures on Thursday which are, at best, expected to show Britain narrowly avoided an unprecedented ‘triple dip’ recession. Welby, who sits on the influential banking commission of MPs and peers, called for a ‘revolution’ in banking. He said: ‘We need a revolution in the aims of banks so they exist to serve the society they are in. Companies are not self regarding things to maximise returns for shareholders.’ Despite calling for an improvement in ethics and standards at British  lenders, he  argued that  some of the criticism of them has been unfair. The Archbishop's comments echo those of Governor of Bank of England Sir Mervyn King . He said: ‘My experience of the last year on the banking commission ruins many of one’s illusions.  They (bankers) don’t come in with horns and a tail burning £50 notes to light large cigars.’ He added:  ‘One of the things they did is borrow short to lend long, a classic error.’ The Archbishop became the latest influential figure to suggest that state backed Royal Bank of Scotland and Lloyds Banking Group should be broken up into a ‘good’ bank to lend to the economy and a ‘bad’ bank, storing all their toxic assets. This echoes comments made by Bank of England governor Sir Mervyn King earlier this year. But Welby, who said he was speaking in a personal capacity, also argued a British lender should be broken up into regional banks to better serve their local communities. ‘Part of the banking system should be local, not London based. We need to bring new entrants in, and recapitalise one of the banks and break it up into regional banks.’ Welby’s comments  come after the Church of England vowed last week  to ‘turn the tide’ on a culture of lavish bonuses for bankers and business chiefs. It slammed the ‘culture of entitlement and greed’ in bug businesses, saying it ‘rides roughshod’ over the Christian principles of justice and fairness’. It promised to use the financial firepower of  investments held in its £8billion pension scheme to vote against excessive pay packages. Its investments include Royal Bank of Scotland, Barclays, Shell and Vodafone. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Radical changes needed to snap out of it, the Archbishop of Canterbury said . Justin Welby was speaking at a Bible Society debate on ethics in finance . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Radical changes needed to snap out of it, the Archbishop of Canterbury said . Justin Welby was speaking at a Bible Society debate on ethics in finance .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Film shows three men tying up blood-spattered man before whipping him with cables and . touching him on his skin with electric wires . A terrified Libyan man is beaten and tortured with electric shocks by youths who appear to be former revolutionary fighters. The images, taken from a video handed to The Mail on Sunday in a Tripoli refugee camp, will be seen as fresh evidence that those who deposed Colonel Gaddafi with the help of the West are adopting methods as brutal as the dead tyrant’s. The film shows three men tying up the blood-spattered man before whipping him repeatedly with cables, touching him on his skin with electric wires and taunting him as he pleads for mercy. The man being whipped with cables on the video was Saleh Barhoun Gersh, who had run a general store in Towerga - which was loyal to Gaddafi during the conflict until the town was ransacked by fighters from nearby Misrata. When the rebels arrived, Mr Gersh was so frightened he wore women's clothes to disguise himself . The film shows three men tying up the blood-spattered man before whipping him repeatedly with cables, touching him on his skin with electric wires and taunting him as he pleads for mercy . The men, one of whom is wearing combat trousers and is armed with a knife, tell the man that 'blood will come from your eyes and nose until you admit what you have done' The men, one of whom is wearing combat trousers and is armed with a knife, tell the man that ‘blood will come from your eyes and nose until you admit what you have done’. The new video images  follow growing protests about abuse and torture in parts of the country. Doctors from the aid agency Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) have pulled out after refusing to deal with the results of such  brutality in their clinics. According to sources, the youths in the video were former rebels who refused to surrender their weapons at the end of the civil war in October – and are intent on revenge on those they suspect of having supported Gaddafi. They are said to have driven in armed trucks into the al-Fellah ‘internally displaced persons’ (IDP) camp in a suburb of Tripoli, firing at crowds and searching homes until they found men on their list of ‘suspects’. Fury: Women in the refugee camp, in a suburb of Tripoli, scream at the militia . Their victim, seen on the video, was Saleh Barhoun Gersh,  who had run a general store in Towerga – which was loyal to Gaddafi during the conflict until the town was ransacked by fighters from nearby Misrata city. Before Gaddafi was killed, the rebels had been under siege from his forces for weeks in Misrata  – a port 150 miles east of Tripoli. Commander Mohamed al-Deaka said of the men carrying out the abuse: 'Yes, it happens here, but it's everywhere in Libya. We have to use force to make prisoners give answers. Our city was destroyed in the fighting. Now we want to know who carried out the destruction, who raped our women and stole our property' When some of the Misrata rebels arrived at the camp, Mr Gersh was so frightened he wore women’s clothes to disguise himself. In the film he cries out as he is whipped and is told: ‘You are from Towerga, you dog. You say you did nothing in Misrata, so why are you in disguise? We found weapons in every house in Towerga. Your hand is bleeding and we hope it is paralysed.’ The men chant as they reach for live electric wires: ‘Everyone we catch is innocent, they say. ‘Well, blood will come from your  eyes and nose until you admit what you have done. We’ve caught 60  of you so far and none of you did anything.’ It is not clear when the footage was taken or what happened to Mr Gersh. Camp manager Mohamed al-Mabruk, who handed over the  footage, said: ‘The fighters from Misrata have kept their weapons and vowed to capture everyone who supported Gaddafi. ‘They come on regular raids to our three camps in Tripoli and take anyone they want. They beat them and torture them to get them to confess to rape and murder.’ Locals said Towerga residents were known supporters of Gaddafi and are among 8,500 people believed to be held in secret camps all over the country. Mr al-Mabruk is helpless to stop the raids. He said: ‘You can do nothing against the Misrata  militias. 'We are all terrified of them. The government, the police and the army cannot stop them.’ Attacks are often filmed by the fighters for amusement to post  on YouTube. The abuse of Mr Gersh was  captured on a mobile phone left behind in the chaos of a raid.  Libya’s interim government has admitted it is largely powerless to prevent this collapse of law and order. It comes at a time when doubts are being raised about Nato’s support for the uprising. Britain spent about £300million on bombing raids to help secure the victory that ousted the Gaddafi regime four months ago. But local militias are hell-bent  on revenge against their former enemies. They also frequently clash with rival militias. Rebel fighters in Towerga, south of Misrata, which has been systematically looted and destroyed since Gaddafi's downfall . Thousands of fighters have  commandeered schools, halls  and sports centres as detention facilities for ‘suspects’ they capture from their homes or the street. The Misrata brigades are considered the most hostile, with thousands of untrained youths carrying out the aggressive interrogation. In other footage collected by the camp manager,  more than 30 armed trucks are shown on an early morning raid into the camp. Women scream that they are being attacked in their beds and that some family members are sick. ‘Is this the new revolution. Is this the justice we all fought for?’ they shout. Last month, 14 badly injured detainees were sent to Medecins Sans Frontieres doctors, three of them needing hospitalisation. Claudia Evers, Misrata co-ordinator for MSF, said: ‘The militia refused to let us take them to hospital. We’ve reported two deaths. No action has been taken and our doctors refuse to continue.’ Amnesty International has  documented thousands of cases of abuse and torture, and handed  photographs to The Mail on Sunday. Senior crisis response adviser Donatella Rovera has protested to the National Transitional Council (NTC) without success. ‘I have seen people who have been beaten with iron bars and rubber pipes, some hardly able to walk,’ she said. ‘Men are hung  by handcuffs from a door frame and attacked with electric wires.  Tasers are applied to their ears and genitals, and finger and toenails are torn out.’ She has evidence of 12 deaths. No investigations have been carried out by the authorities. ‘There is not a single case where anyone has been brought to justice,’ she said. ‘There is a total lack of accountability.’ End of a tyrant... but not the end of the bloodshed: A grab from a video taken from the mobile phone of a National Transitional Council fighter showing the demise of Gaddafi last October . At al-Huda prison centre in Misrata, Sheikh Fathy Daraz heads an Islamic charity for inmates’ welfare. But he is at the mercy  of the militia, who regularly take men away for questioning. ‘We see their bruises and their broken limbs when they return but we can do nothing,’ he said. ‘There is no effective police force or national army yet.’ Nearby at the city’s al-Head sports centre, the tennis courts and gym were deserted. A group of 25 brigades have taken over. Commander Mohamed al-Deaka is a former construction engineer. He was defensive about abuse  by his men. ‘Yes it happens here, but it’s everywhere in Libya,’ he said. ‘We have to use force to make prisoners give answers. Our city was destroyed in the fighting. Now we want to know who carried out the destruction, who raped our women and stole our property.’ Khaled Ben Ali, head of LibAid, an umbrella organisation for humanitarian agencies, said that NTC ministers told him they were powerless: ‘The Prime Minister told me he had issued written orders for the surrender of weapons and the militias tore them up. ‘They fought for freedom and now they think they are free to do what they like. What they like is revenge. There is no effective judicial system. Maybe we need the UN Security Council to find new ways of protecting our civilians.’ A government source said: ‘This is the result of our legacy from Gaddafi – brutalised people enacting revenge. But it must stop.’ [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Film shows three men tying up blood-spattered man before whipping him with cables and . touching him on his skin with electric wires . Man, suspected by rebels of having supported Gaddafi, told: ‘Blood will come from your eyes and nose until you admit what you have done’ Video handed to Mail on Sunday in Tripoli refugee camp . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Film shows three men tying up blood-spattered man before whipping him with cables and . touching him on his skin with electric wires . Man, suspected by rebels of having supported Gaddafi, told: ‘Blood will come from your eyes and nose until you admit what you have done’ Video handed to Mail on Sunday in Tripoli refugee camp .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Matt Chorley, Mailonline Political Editor . PUBLISHED: . 09:15 EST, 8 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 09:19 EST, 8 March 2013 . UKIP leader Nigel Farage enjoyed dinner with media boss Rupert Murdoch this week, in a fresh sign of the anti-EU’s emergence as a significant political force. The UK Independence Party is riding high after coming second in the Eastleigh by-election, pushing the Tories into a humiliating third place. News that Mr Murdoch has hosted Mr Farage for dinner – thought to be the first of its kind – will be seen as a fresh blow for David Cameron’s Conservatives, who had previously relied on the support of the Murdoch empire. Write caption here . The two men dined at Mr Murdoch’s London flat on Tuesday night. They discussed the possibility of a UKIP pact with the Tories, but only if Mr Cameron was ousted as leader. UKIP is growing increasingly confident of winning the elections to the European Parliament next year, and Mr Farage told Mr Murdoch he could win half of all the seats up for grabs, the Daily Telegraph reported. Last night Mr Murdoch claimed Mr Farage was ‘reflecting opinion’ and suggested new leaders are ‘emerging on distant horizon’. In a new opinion poll, carried out by former Tory donor Lord Ashcroft, 12 per cent of people said theyb would vote for UKIP in a general election, compared to nine per cent for the Lib Dems. While UKIP has traditionally been seen as a threat mainly to the Tories, appealing to party traditionalists on issues like Europe and immigration. Mr Farage's success has spooked the Tories, but Lib Dem president Tim Farron has warned the Conservatives not to trumpet policies which appeal to 'the man in the pub' But a separate survey carried out in the wake of the Eastleigh by-election suggested that much of the UKIP support came from voters from all the major parties, keen to deliver a stinging rebuke to the Westminster elite. It revealed that 22 per cent of 2010 voting Tories switched to UKIP, along with 19 per cent of Lib Dems. David Cameron tried to move on from the Eastleigh result with a major speech on the economy in Keighly, West Yorkshire . Another poll this week suggested that 38 per cent of people would now ‘consider’ voting for UKIP. Mr Murdoch took to Twitter last night with political observations about his European visits this week - drawing parallels between the UK and Italy. ‘Politics both places very fluid, economies going nowhere. New leaders emerging on distant horizon,’ he wrote in one post. ‘Stagnant Europe wracked by discontent and resentment of EU. Glad we contributed to UK resisting the Euro over many years, . ‘Boris Johnson, Michael Gove, few excellent, frustrated ministers. Farage reflecting opinion.’ Meanwhile, Lib Dem President Tim Farron has warned the Tories against trying to woo UKIP supporters with populist policies. Mr Farron told The House magazine: ‘What David Cameron has not understood, what William Hague got so wrong, is that saying things that the man in the pub tends to chime with doesn’t win you an election. ‘Because those people when they’ve sobered up realise it sounds ridiculous. The other thing is UKIP prove that their vote is not just about Europe at all. ‘It’s a general discontented, broadly right wing but not exclusively, protest vote. So Cameron is fighting the wrong issues.’ [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Rupert Murdoch invited UKIP leader to dinner in London . UKIP pushed Tories into third place in the Eastleigh by-election . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Rupert Murdoch invited UKIP leader to dinner in London . UKIP pushed Tories into third place in the Eastleigh by-election .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Meghan Keneally . PUBLISHED: . 16:52 EST, 18 February 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 04:05 EST, 19 February 2013 . Mindy McCready is the fifth former contestant on 'Celebrity Rehab' who died within three years of appearing on the television show. Since the country star was found after an apparent suicide at her cabin in Arkansas, the reality show that she starred in has come under increased scrutiny. However, McCready herself was possibly under scrutiny at the time of her death. Police were reportedly planning question her about the death last month of her boyfriend David Wilson, who was shot at the same Heber Spring, Arkansas, home where McCready killed herself. 'Celebrity Rehab,' which is currently in its fifth season on VH1, is lead by Dr Drew Pinsky and features a changing cast of celebrities. Camera chronicle their journey through a 21-day rehabilitation clinic where they are treated for various drug addictions. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . Addiction: Country singer Mindy McCready is the fifth former Celebrity Rehab contestant to die in the years after their appearance on the reality show . Tragic: Mindy McCready, 37, killed herself on the same front porch where her 'soulmate' David Wilson died on January 13 . In addition to 37-year-old McCready, four other castmates have died because of different incidents relating to their addictions. The most fatal of the show's seasons was the third season, since McCready's death brings the fatality count up to three out of the nine featured cast members. It was revealed on Monday that McCready had been working on a suicide awareness video right before her death, it was revealed today. Private investigator Danno Hanks told E! News the 37-year-old had asked him to work on a cover of I'll See You Yesterday which was written by Courtney Dashe, a fan of McCready's who wanted her to sing the song. Then on Saturday, the day before she was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at her Arkansas home, she sent him a frame for a video with a suicide hotline number. Mike Starr, a former bassist for the . grunge rock band Alice in Chains, was the first 'Celebrity Rehab' star . to die after his appearance on the show. Starr appeared on the show in 2009 in its third season. He admitted to being addicted to heroin, methadone, methamphetamine, cocaine and marijuana. In February 2011, Starr was arrested for possessing two kinds of painkillers without a prescription. One . month later, on March 8, 2011, he was found dead at his Salt Lake City, . Utah, home. Dr Drew Pinsky described his death as a 'prescription drug . overdose.' He was 44. Jeff Conaway made a name for himself in 'Grease,' where he played Kenickie. He . appeared on season one of 'Celebrity Rehab' in 2008 in an attempt to . overcome his addiction to alcohol, cocaine and prescription drugs. He also appeared in the second season of the show, after he relapsed following back surgery. On . May 11, 2011, Conaway was found unconscious at his home in Encino, . California. Doctors said he was in coma after suffering from pneumonia . with sepsis, which was made worse by his years of drug abuse. Two weeks later, his family took him off life support. He died at age 60. Rodney King became a celebrity after . he his brutal beating by LAPD cops was caught on tape. Their acquittal . resulted in the 1992 Los Angeles riots. King appeared on 'Celebrity Rehab' in 2008 to cope with long-term alcoholism. He also had a history of drug abuse. He . also appeared on 'Sober House' and continued to appear on Dr Drew's . programs as he worked through his substance addictions and trauma from . being battered by police. On June 17, 2012, he was found lying at the bottom of his swimming pool in Rialto, California. An autopsy found alcohol, marijuana and cocaine in his system. He was 47. Joy Kovar's drug an alcohol addiction . became so pronounced during his run on MTV's 'Real World' that he was . kicked off the show in 2008. He joined season three of 'Celebrity Rehab,' which aired in 2010. On the show, he admitted to abusing alcohol, cocaine, ecstasy, methamphetamine and steroids. His family said he remained clean for six months while he pursued an acting career. On August 17, 2012, he was found dead in an apartment in Chicago. Reports . from the time say he died of a suspected drug overdose after drinking . heavily and taking cocaine and Viagra the night before. He said: 'She said she wanted to put . together this video to help people deal when someone had suffered a . suicide in their life and God, she was literally having me write her . suicide note. If I had known, I would have made . sure someone was there with her all the time. I thought she was talking . about sending a message about suicide for David's death but this is . unbelievable. 'She was sending me a message. I wish I had been more alert to what it . was. I just didn't think she would do this. She had two kids to live . for. I still can't fathom the whole thing.' McCready was also facing public scrutiny over the death of Wilson on January 13, . Sheriff's deputies investigating the case had said the death was suspicious. They were planning to re-interview before she died, People magazine reports. Treatment: Dr Drew Pinsky is the head of the show and he said that he was 'saddened' by McCready's death . McCready denied having anything to do with his death - calling David Wilson her . 'soulmate' - but police said unanswered questions remain. 'At first, she said she hadn't heard the gunshot because the TV was too loud. Then she said she had heard the gunshot,' a source told People. 'So obviously there were a lot of questions, and the Sheriff was asking for clarification.' Former Real World contestant Joey . Kovar died in August of last year, just three years after the third . season of Celebrity Rehab aired. Though his family said that he had maintained his sobriety following the show, an autopsy revealed that his cause of death was opiate intoxication. That is believed to be a result of the . painkiller that he was taking at the time, which was called Norco and . classified as an opiate though it was never confirmed that the drug . caused his death. Yellow crime-scene tape blocks off the home of Mindy McCready in Heber Springs, Arkansas on Monday, February 18, 2013, the day after the country singer was found dead there Sunday in an apparent suicide . Their fellow cast mate Mike Starr, a . bass player from the grunge rock band Alice in Chains, was arrested in . February 2011 for possessing two different types of prescription . medication that were deemed controlled substances. He was found dead less than a month later as a result of what Dr Drew deemed a prescription drug overdose. The . two other stars who died after their series aired were actor Jeff . Conaway of Grease fame and Rodney King, the man whose beating sparked . the Los Angeles police brutality riots. Conaway, . who made a name for himself as Kenickie in the musical film, was . featured on both the show's first and second seasons because his . addiction to prescription medication returned following back surgeries. At first it was thought that he died in . May 2011 due to a drug overdose, but Dr Drew later made a public . statement saying that he was placed in a medically induced coma . following a combination of pneumonia and sepsis caused by years of drug . abuse. King, who shot to fame after he was . seen being beaten by police in Los Angeles which went on to prompt the . infamous riots of the early 1990s, was found dead after having drowned . in his swimming pool. The . drowning was ruled an accident but an autopsy proved that he had a mix . of cocaine, marijuana, and alcohol in his system at the time of his . death in June of last year. Now much of the criticism is falling . on the shoulders of Dr Drew Pinsky who serves as a host, executive . producer and doctor on the show. Reflections: Mackenzie Phillips, one of the six remaining cast members from season three of Celebrity Rehab, posted a message to Twitter shortly after the news of McCready's suicide was released . 'Although . I have not treated her for a few years, I had reached out to her . recently upon hearing about the apparent suicide of her boyfriend and . father of her younger children. She was devastated,' he said in a . statement Monday. 'Although . she was fearful of stigma and ridicule she agreed with me that she . needed to make her health and safety a priority. Unfortunately it seems . that Mindy did not sustain her treatment.' McCready had been in the news over . the past month because her live-in boyfriend also died in an apparent . suicide at the same cabin in Heber Springs. McCready . was allegedly in the house at the time of his death but she allegedly . did not hear the gun shot because the television was too loud. Following Wilson's death, she attended court-ordered rehab and her two sons were put into foster care, and they remained in the custody of the state at the time of her death. On her bio page from Celebrity Rehab's website, VH1 made references to her personal problems and even pegged the root of her troubles on her relationships. Her biography on the show's page says: 'Although she was arrested and jailed for trying to buy OxyContin with a false prescription and attempted suicide with an overdose of drugs and alcohol, Mindy believes her only true addiction is to violent relationships.' [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Mindy McCready is the latest Celebrity Rehab contestant to die, as she was found dead in an apparent suicide on Sunday evening . Four other stars from the reality show have died in ways relating to their drug addictions that were the subject of the series . Two of the others were from the same season that McCready was featured . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Mindy McCready is the latest Celebrity Rehab contestant to die, as she was found dead in an apparent suicide on Sunday evening . Four other stars from the reality show have died in ways relating to their drug addictions that were the subject of the series . Two of the others were from the same season that McCready was featured .

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<s>[ARTICLE] North Korean students will take part in a media studies course funded by taxpayers, amid fears they could just learn how to pedal propaganda about Kim Jong-un because the regime controls the media. More than 40 students from North Korea will take part in a media course in the UK, funded by British taxpayers. The course, which has been organised by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, aims to show students how British media works as well as teach them how to build websites. But there are fears the training will merely give the 46 students the means to pedal propaganda for North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, because the media is notoriously tightly controlled in the country. Lord Alton of Liverpool, chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on North Korea, has accused the foreign office of 'investing in people who are official mouthpieces of the regime,' the Sunday Express reported. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has confirmed it is funding the project, which will be delivered by the Thomson Foundation and is called 'Inside Out: Working in North Korea to connect its journalists to an internet world.' There are claims it could cost £70,000. But the FCO said no figures for the course had been finalised, and said it was being run as part of the 'critical engagement' activities with the country. In a written answer to the House of Lords Baroness Anelay of St Johns said 'The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) maintains extremely tight control over media and restricts access to foreign broadcasting.' She added: 'The project aims to expose participants to the UK media, instructing them on international reporting practices and the development of technical skills to build websites using a variety of international sources.' The students took part in a pilot workshop in Pyongyang in October. The study tour to the UK will take place in early 2015. Scroll down for video . North Korea has one of the most restrictive attitudes to the media in the world, precisely controlling information coming into and out of the country. Journalists have to be a member of the Workers' Party and prove that they come from families with reliable political backgrounds. There is just one agency service for the country. A spokeswoman for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office said: 'The UK has worked tirelessly to raise awareness of horrifying human rights violations in North Korea. Last month, the international community condemned these abuses with a strong resolution in the United Nations. News of the death of former North Korean leader Kim Jong-il took two days to be released because of the tight controls on the media in the country that sees what can be reported as restricted by the regime . The Foreign Office confirmed it would be funding the media training for the 47 students from North Korea . 'This project is an example of the type of international exposure recommended by the UN Commission of Inquiry into human rights in the DPRK. It is just one part of our critical engagement to try to improve the lives of those who live in North Korea.' A United Nations report earlier this year found that North Koreans are not able to express opinions that are critical of the regime or its official ideology. It said: 'There is an almost complete denial of the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, as well as of the rights to freedom of opinion, expression, information and association.' The report said that propaganda is used by the State to create obedience to the leader and that no expression of criticism of the political system goes unpunished, with public executions and people being sent to prison camps known as the 'ultimate' punishments. An example of the extent the state controls the press was seen when Kim Jong-il died in 2011, but it took two days for news of the death of the former leader to be released. North Korea is one of the most controlling media environments in the world. All news outlets are controlled by the state and information flowing into and out of the country is monitored. There is just one news agency, the North Korean Central News Agency, that operates throughout the country. Internet access is poor, with many north Koreans only able to access a form of an intranet. But mobile phones have appeared after a ban was lifted in 2008. Radios and televisions supplied to North Koreans come pre-tuned to Government-controlled stations such as Korean Central Television. Since Kim Jong-un took over from his father in 2011 there have been attempts to improve media access and information flowing from the country. This has included an interview Dennis Rodman gave to CNN after travelling to the country earlier this year, following a previous trip where he struck up an unlikely friendship with Kim Jong-un. But a lot of the news coming from north Korea has been seen as being staged and managed, merely to just imply access has improved. North Korea also allowed American prisoners to be interviewed by the news channel, but the process again seemed controlled as the prisoners appeared to have been coached about what to say as they asked American officials for help. A photo released by North Korean Central News Agency shows Kim Jong-un at military training . Before the death of Kim Jong-il residents were bombarded with positive news about the former leader, such as his visits to industrial projects. Information about the country's economic difficulties of famines are not generally reported to domestic audiences. In 2013 some controls were relaxed as visitors were allowed to bring their mobile phones into the country. However calls between locals and foreigners are still prohibited. A black market, reportedly at the border with China, appears to be in operation and enables North Koreans to watch some South Korean shows. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] North Korean students to take part in course to learn about British media . The students will learn about international reporting and building websites . Critics fear they will only learn skills to pedal propaganda about Kim Jong-un because media in north Korea is strictly controlled by the state . Foreign and Commonwealth Office is funding course for the 46 students . Lord Alton accused foreign office of investing in regime's 'mouthpieces' [/SUMMARY]</s>

North Korean students to take part in course to learn about British media . The students will learn about international reporting and building websites . Critics fear they will only learn skills to pedal propaganda about Kim Jong-un because media in north Korea is strictly controlled by the state . Foreign and Commonwealth Office is funding course for the 46 students . Lord Alton accused foreign office of investing in regime's 'mouthpieces'

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Sophie Jane Evans . PUBLISHED: . 21:02 EST, 19 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 04:59 EST, 20 November 2013 . A dog has died after eating a decomposing ball of fat that had washed up on a Welsh beach. Surfer Daniel Hart, 32, was forced to put his pet Maisey to sleep after she became seriously ill with pneumonia and a bleeding nose. Now, pet owners are being warned about the white lumps of fat - which look like snowballs - that have been washing up in small quantities along the Welsh coast for more than a fortnight. Warning: Pet owners are being warned about decomposing fat balls that are washing up on the Welsh coast . The rancid substance has also been reported in areas along the Cornish coast. Experts are at loss to explain where the fat has come from, but believe either Atlantic storms could have washed it over to the UK or passing ships might have dumped it at sea. While posing no risk to people, the substance can cause potentially fatal problems for dogs whose digestive systems are unable to cope. Mr Hart had been surfing at the . Llangennith beach on the Gower Peninsula, near Swansea, on Sunday when his beloved dog Maisey started being violently sick. The decomposing fat was first reported in Ogmore, pictured, in the Vale of Glamorgan, almost two weeks ago . 'I was surfing and Maisey was around the . high tide line. I called her to me. She ran half way to me then started . being sick,' he told BBC Wales online. Maisey, who is believed to have eaten congealed vegetable oil, bled from the nose . as she was carried to her owner's car. She was quickly taken to an emergency vet, where she was given antibiotics for pneumonia. Mr Hart, from Gorseinon, near Swansea, took Maisey home and slept with her on his settee - however, her condition failed to improve and blood began pouring from her nose. Less than six hours hour, Mr Hart decided it would be kinder to have his beloved pet put to sleep. 'It was horrible taking the decision but I didn't want her to suffer,' he said. 'She had lost the will to live.' Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has warned dog walkers using the region's beaches to be 'vigilant' A spokesman for Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has warned dog walkers using the region's beaches to be 'vigilant'. He added that the first reports of rancid fat on Welsh beaches had come in from Ogmore, in the Vale of Glamorgan, almost two weeks ago. 'It appears to have started off in the east and is gradually making its way west,' he said. He said he believed that there had been one death and up to 10 cases of dogs becoming ill after consuming the fat. 'There is nothing particularly to worry about environmentally and there is no danger to humans - I'm assuming that nobody would try to eat it,' he said. The fat has been tested. It has been found to be largely vegetable matter, possibly oil, that is relatively harmless. 'We are not talking about large amounts here but it is something that dogs might eat so we have warned people to be vigilant for the sake of their pets,' he said. A spokesman for Swansea County Council said it was investigating reports of the fat, but had so far encountered nothing. He said cleaning the beach would be the responsibility of the landowner in the area affected. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Surfer Daniel Hart, 32, was forced to put his pet dog Maisey to sleep . She suffered pneumonia and a bleeding nose after eating ball of fat . Substance has been washing up along Welsh coast for a fortnight . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Surfer Daniel Hart, 32, was forced to put his pet dog Maisey to sleep . She suffered pneumonia and a bleeding nose after eating ball of fat . Substance has been washing up along Welsh coast for a fortnight .

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<s>[ARTICLE] (CNN) -- A 22-year-old man from Pakistan hopes to soon swim the English Channel with an American friend -- but first he's got to navigate the currents of bureaucracy. College teammates David Gatz (left) and Usman Javaid want to swim the English Channel for charity. Usman Javaid, an Ohio college student who has won national swimming titles in his native Pakistan, wants to swim the channel with his best friend, David Gatz, a fellow member of the swim team at Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware, Ohio. They want to honor their international friendship by working together to accomplish a great feat: a relay across the English Channel. They also hope to raise money for charity. "With teamwork and cooperation you can tackle even the toughest of challenges," Javaid told CNN in a phone interview Wednesday from Islamabad, Pakistan. Yet the British government has denied Javaid's request for the visa that would let him enter the country. British authorities say they can't grant a visa because they have questions about Javaid's student status, the young man said. "They weren't satisfied I was going to Britain for the stated purpose," he said. Javaid said his passport contains a valid student visa for the United States and he sent documentation from the Channel Swimming Association with his visa application to prove he is scheduled to do the swim. The United Kingdom Border Agency told CNN in a written statement that "all visa applications are considered on their individual merits, taking into account all the information provided." "Where an applicant fails to demonstrate they meet the relevant rules, their application will be refused," the statement said. The agency noted that anyone who is refused can reapply with additional information. Mark Cooper, the director of marketing and communication at Ohio Wesleyan University, said British authorities have not contacted the university to ask about Javaid's student status. "We did send ... documentation to [British authorities] to follow up" after Javaid's application was denied, he said. Javaid has since applied to the British high commissioner in Islamabad for an emergency visa. Meanwhile, Gatz and the university's head swim coach, Dick Hawes, are waiting in Dover, England, hoping things will work out so the men can try to accomplish their goal. The Channel Swimming Association has granted them permission to try their crossing between July 29 and August 6, Javaid said. The association determines such "swim windows" after considering the expected tides and the schedules of pilot boats, which accompany the swimmers. The association sent a letter Thursday to the British high commissioner in Pakistan to confirm Javaid's mission, said Joan Metcalfe, the association's chairwoman. As the clock ticks, Gatz remains in Dover, where he passes the time by training in the channel. "There is some frustration," he said Thursday, "but we're also optimistic." Gatz is the captain of Ohio Wesleyan University's varsity swim team. He swam twice for the university at the NCAA national championship meet and holds numerous records. Javaid is a gold medalist on the Pakistani national swim team and represented his country at the South Asian Federation Games. Their coach said he's proud of the pair, no matter the outcome of their attempt. "I think it's great. It shows so much maturity on their part -- first, to take on such a large endeavor, but it also speaks so much about their friendship," Hawes said. Their relationship reflects the unity of the entire swim team at the school, he said. "This is an international family," the coach said of his swimmers. "It's a phenomenal environment. This has just been such a great experience." As they work to accomplish their goal, Gatz and Javaid also are accepting donations for Doctors Without Borders, an international medical humanitarian organization also known by its French name, Medecins Sans Frontieres. Gatz, who is double-majoring in biochemistry and pre-med, said the idea came as they followed news reports of Pakistan's campaign against the Taliban this year, which displaced thousands of civilians in the country's northwest. "We wanted to donate to an organization that was helping people there," he explained. Javaid added Thursday, "That was a big reason we chose Doctors Without Borders, because there are a lot of people suffering in that area and they are assisting them." Some of the donations will cover costs associated with their anticipated channel swim, he added. But even if they don't get to do their relay, Javaid said, their effort is still worthwhile. "Even if my visa doesn't go through, we'll continue with Channeling Peace," he vowed, referring to the organization they set up for their effort. "Even if I have to swim in a lake in Pakistan while David swims in the English Channel, it's still a powerful symbol," Javaid said. "Symbols gather power not from the act itself but from the people who are supporting them," he said. "A lot of people around the world are supporting us and our message. As long as they support it in their hearts and minds, we have been successful." [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] College teammates want to swim English Channel for charity, international harmony . Swim was to happen between now and August 6, but one denied visa to Britain . Usman Javaid, an Ohio student from Pakistan, says U.K. questioned student status . Javaid reapplies for visa, waits for decision . [/SUMMARY]</s>

College teammates want to swim English Channel for charity, international harmony . Swim was to happen between now and August 6, but one denied visa to Britain . Usman Javaid, an Ohio student from Pakistan, says U.K. questioned student status . Javaid reapplies for visa, waits for decision .

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<s>[ARTICLE] On May 16 last year, a 22-year-old Austrian named Maqsood Lodin was being questioned by police in Berlin. He had recently returned from Pakistan via Budapest, Hungary, and then traveled overland to Germany. His interrogators were surprised to find that hidden in his underpants were a digital storage device and memory cards. Buried inside them was a pornographic video called "Kick Ass" -- and a file marked "Sexy Tanja." Several weeks later, after laborious efforts to crack a password and software to make the file almost invisible, German investigators discovered encoded inside the actual video a treasure trove of intelligence -- more than 100 al Qaeda documents that included an inside track on some of the terror group's most audacious plots and a road map for future operations. Future plots include the idea of seizing cruise ships and carrying out attacks in Europe similar to the gun attacks by Pakistani militants that paralyzed the Indian city of Mumbai in November 2008. Ten gunmen killed 164 people in that three-day rampage. Terrorist training manuals in PDF format in German, English and Arabic were among the documents, too, according to intelligence sources. More: Details revealed on London bombings | Liquid bomb plot origins . U.S. intelligence sources tell CNN that the documents uncovered are "pure gold;" one source says that they are the most important haul of al Qaeda materials in the last year, besides those found when U.S. Navy SEALs raided Osama bin Laden's compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan, a year ago and killed the al Qaeda leader. One document was called "Future Works." Its authorship is unclear, but intelligence officials believe it came from al Qaeda's inner core. It may have been the work of Younis al Mauretani, a senior al Qaeda operative until his capture by Pakistani police in 2011. The document appears to have been the product of discussions to find new targets and methods of attack. German investigators believe it was written in 2009 -- and that it remains the template for al Qaeda's plans. Investigative journalist Yassin Musharbash, a reporter with the German newspaper Die Zeit, was the first to report on the documents. One plan: to seize passenger ships. According to Musharbash, the writer "says that we could hijack a passenger ship and use it to pressurize the public." Musharbash takes that to mean that the terrorists "would then start executing passengers on those ships and demand the release of particular prisoners." The plan would include dressing passengers in orange jump suits, as if they were al Qaeda prisoners at Guantanamo Bay, and then videotaping their execution. Lodin and a man called Yusuf Ocak, who allegedly traveled back to Europe with him, are now on trial in Berlin where they are pleading not guilty. Ocak was detained in Vienna two weeks after Lodin's arrest. According to a senior Western counterterrorism official, their names were on a watch list, and when they handed over documents at a European border crossing, their names registered with counterterrorism agencies. Both men have pleaded not guilty to terrorism charges. Ocak is also charged with helping to form a group called the German Taliban Mujahedeen, and is alleged to have made a video for the group threatening attacks in Germany. Prosecutors believe the pair met at a terrorist training camp in Pakistan's tribal territories and were sent back to Europe to recruit a network of suicide bombers. "We do not know what those men were up to but there are certain files of information that would make it plausible that they were probably thinking of a Mumbai-style attack," says Musharbash. In the fall of 2010, a year after the document was written, European intelligence agencies were scrambling to investigate a Mumbai-style plot involving German and other European militants -- which sparked an unprecedented U.S. State Department travel warning for Americans in Europe. "I think it is plausible to think that the 'Future Works' document is part of that particular project," says Musharbash. "Future Works" suggests al Qaeda was an organization under great pressure, without a major attack to its name in several years, harried by Western intelligence. If anything, its predicament is even more dire today. "The document delivers very clearly the notion that al Qaeda knows it is being followed very closely," Musharbash tells CNN. "It specifically says that Western intelligence agencies have become very good at spoiling attacks, that they have to come up with new ways and better plotting." Part of the response, according to the document, should be to train European jihadists quickly and send them home -- rather than use them as fighters in Afghanistan and Pakistan -- with instructions on how to keep in secret contact with their handlers. What emerges from the document is a twin-track strategy -- with the author apparently convinced that al Qaeda needs low-cost, low-tech attacks (perhaps such as the recent gun attacks in France carried out by Mohammed Merah) to keep security services preoccupied while it plans large-scale attacks on a scale similar to 9/11. Those already under suspicion in Europe and elsewhere would be used as decoys, while others would prepare major attacks. That is yet to materialize, but Musharbash believes a complex gun attack in Europe is still on al Qaeda's radar. "I believe that the general idea is still alive and I believe that as soon as al Qaeda has the capacities to go after that scenario, they will immediately do it," he says. While "Future Works" does not include dates or places, nor specific plans, it appears to be a brainstorming exercise to seize the initiative -- and reinstate al Qaeda on front pages around the world. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] German officials discovered al Qaeda documents encoded on porn video . CNN obtained access to details of the documents . Many shed light on future plots the terror group had planned, including on cruise ships . [/SUMMARY]</s>

German officials discovered al Qaeda documents encoded on porn video . CNN obtained access to details of the documents . Many shed light on future plots the terror group had planned, including on cruise ships .

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<s>[ARTICLE] A toddler has been killed when a government agency car reversing out of his grandmother's driveway ran over him. Braxton James Nowlan, 15 months, died of head injuries following the accident at his grandmother's home in Ipswich, south-west of Brisbane, on Monday afternoon. The small grey Hyundai that hit Braxton is understood to be used by the Department of Communities, the Courier-Mail reported. Scroll down for video . Braxton James Nowlan, 15 months, died of head injuries after he was hit by a car reversing out of a driveway . The accident occured at his grandmother's home in Ipswich, south-west of Brisbane, on Monday . The Queensland Ambulance Service says the female driver was taken to Ipswich Hospital to be treated for shock. Ipswich police are investigating the incident. 'The car did pull into the driveway and then it's reversed out of the driveway and at this stage it appears the car has reversed over the young child, causing the fatality,' said Inspector David Preston. 'The vehicle involved is a government-owned vehicle and there are inquiries being made into that government agency at this particular time in relation to the situation as to why they were here and what was happening.' Paramedics attempted to revive Braxton after rushing to the scene at Clarke St in Ripley after 1.30pm. Neighbours said he was a 'happy-go-lucky little boy' and that local residents were devastated by the tragedy . The small grey Hyundai that hit Braxton is understood to be used by the Department of Communities . Paramedics attempted to revive Braxton after rushing to the scene at Clarke St in Ripley after 1.30pm . His grandmother and two older siblings were at the home at the time of the tragedy, but were later taken away from the scene to stay with friends. Neighbours said he was a 'happy-go-lucky little boy' and that local residents were devastated by the incident. A family friend described Braxton as a 'beautiful boy'. 'My heart goes to his mother who... loved him so dearly and will never hold her little boy in her arms again,' she told the Courier-Mail. 'He was inquisitive like any other child with the brightest smile that could lighten up a sad face.' A report will be prepared for the Coroner. A devastated neighbour is seen crying near the scene of the acident . Queensland Ambulance Service says the female driver was taken to Ipswich Hospital to be treated for shock . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Braxton James Nowlan, 15 months, died of head injuries following accident . He was hit by a government car in a driveway in Ripley, Queensland . The female driver was taken to Ipswich Hospital to be treated for shock . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Braxton James Nowlan, 15 months, died of head injuries following accident . He was hit by a government car in a driveway in Ripley, Queensland . The female driver was taken to Ipswich Hospital to be treated for shock .

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<s>[ARTICLE] By . Louise Boyle . PUBLISHED: . 17:44 EST, 8 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 19:41 EST, 8 August 2013 . Bill Gates has today criticized Google's plan to bring Internet to the Third World with the use of giant balloons, remarking: 'When you're dying of malaria, I suppose you'll look up and see that balloon, and I'm not sure how it'll help you.' The billionaire Microsoft founder, who last year donated $750million to the Global Fund to fight AIDS, TB and malaria, questioned whether bringing the Internet to some of the world's poorest countries really got to the heart of the problem. In an interview with Bloomberg Businessweek, Gates said that although he was a big supporter of the Internet's power to further healthcare, it did not directly address the problem of disease. Scroll down for video . Questions: Bill Gates, co-founder and co-chairman of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and chairman and former chief executive of Microsoft, today questioned Google's commitment to charity work . Philanthropists: Since retiring from full-time work with Microsoft, Gates and wife Melinda (pictured) has thrown himself into his philanthropy through his charity, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation which gives aid to some of the most underprivileged countries in the world . Gates, who was once again crowned the world's richest man in 2013, also criticized Google's track record when it comes to philanthropy. The Internet search giant's charity work is conducted through Google.org. It launched with much fanfare and was headed up by Larry Brilliant - a former World Health Organization leader - from 2006. He left the position in 2009. Of its charity arm, Google says: 'We focus on problems where Google’s assets and core capabilities - technology innovation, global presence, making massive amounts of information universally accessible and useful - play strongest and where the solutions we create have the most potential to scale.' Among the company's projects are crisis response for natural disasters, using Google alerts to share information from emergency services and Google Person Finder to help find family and friends. Google takes to the skies: The Project Loon team launches a high-altitude balloon carrying electronic testing equipment last month. They hope to provide Internet access to under-serviced parts of the world . Gates told Bloomberg: 'Google . started out saying they were going to do a broad set of things. They . hired Larry Brilliant, and they got fantastic publicity. 'And . then they shut it all down. Now they’re just doing their core thing. Fine. But the actors who just do their core thing are not going to . uplift the poor.' MailOnline was awaiting a response from Google on Gate's remarks at the time of publication. Google's Project Loon, sent 30 . super-pressure balloons 12 miles up into the air from New Zealand in . June. They will sail around the globe at twice the altitude of . aeroplanes. The helium-filled balloons inflate to . 49ft in diameter and carry transmitters that could beam 3G-speed . internet to some of the 4.8billion people in the world that are not yet . online, supplying an area of about 780 square miles - twice the size of . New York City. Project Loon was developed in the company's X Lab by the same team behind Google Glasses and the driverless car. It is hoped it could save developing countries the high cost of laying fibre cables to get online and lead to a dramatic increase in internet access for the likes of Africa and south-east Asia. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Billionaire philanthropist Gates questioned Google's charity work . Gates, voted the world's richest man this year, donated $750m to fight AIDS, TB and malaria in 2012 . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Billionaire philanthropist Gates questioned Google's charity work . Gates, voted the world's richest man this year, donated $750m to fight AIDS, TB and malaria in 2012 .

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<s>[ARTICLE] This is the heartbreaking moment the son of the soldier who was shot to death at Ottawa's National War Memorial is believed to have bid farewell to his heroic father. The youngster, reportedly called Marcus, was pictured being carried into a funeral home in Hamilton, Ontario, by a tearful relative on Friday in the wake of Corporal Nathan Cirillo's remains. Just minutes earlier, the 24-year-old soldier's body had been transported to the parlor in a motorcade that traveled down the Highway of Heroes in front of thousands of people. Cpl Cirillo, a ceremonial guard, was shot dead at the memorial on Wednesday by Michael Zehaf-Bibeau, 32, a Muslim convert whose motives for killing the solider are still very much unclear. Scroll down for video . Heartbreaking: A boy believed to be Marcus, the son of tragic soldier Nathan Cirillo, is pictured being carried into a funeral home in Hamilton, Ontario, by a tearful relative on Friday in the wake of his father's remains . Tearful return: Kathy Cirillo (above) weeps as she follows the casket carrying her son, Corporal Nathan Cirillo . Tragic: In this Instagram photo, Cpl Cirillo, who was shot on Wednesday, is seen with his son and pet dog . Too young: Marcus, who was close to his soldier father, had reportedly just started Kindergarten this fall . Hero: Cpl Cirillo (left and right), a ceremonial guard, was shot dead at the memorial on Wednesday by Michael Zehaf-Bibeau, 32, a Muslim convert whose motives for killing the solider are still very much unclear . Remembering a fallen man: Thousands lined the Highway of Heroes to pay tribute to Cirillo, some flying flags . During his funeral, his mother, Kathy Cirillo, was seen openly sobbing as she followed pallbearers carrying her son's coffin to a hearse. She was accompanied by other grief-stricken relatives, friends, Cpl Cirillo's colleagues and Marcus, who had reportedly just started Kindergarten this fall. Thousands lined the Highway to wave the Canadian flag and remember the soldier during his journey home. As his body was transported, Prime Minister Stephen Harper made a return to the National War Memorial to mark the resumption of the honor-guard deployment, which had been suspended following Wednesday's fatal shooting. Homecoming: Cirillo's coffin is loaded into a hearse so he can return to his hometown of Hamilton, Ontario . Saluting a hero: One solider salutes the hearse carrying 24-year-old Cpl Cirillo's body down the highway . Grieving mother: A solider comforts a heartbroken Kathy Cirillo during the funeral service for her son . Brothers in arms: Pallbearers from Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders of Canada regiment carry the casket of Cirillo from a funeral home in Ottawa . Having fun: Cpl Cirillo is pictured playing with his young son, Marcus, prior to his death on Wednesday . Together: The pair are seen playing a video game in a heart-wrenching photo that highlights Marcus's loss . And while Harper made no public remarks, he did take time to speak to mourners, who gave a sustained ovation when the two guards on duty today took their position at the memorial. Meanwhile, authorities seem to still be no closer to figuring out just why Zehaf-Bibeau killed Cirillo and then opened fire on Parliament, before being shot dead. They have revealed that there is currently no evidence the young man had terrorist ties, though he does have a long history of drug abuse and drug addiction. Not intimidated: Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper (above) was on hand as guard service resumed at the National War Memorial Friday afternoon . Memorial: Cpl Cirillo, a ceremonial guard, was shot dead at the memorial (pictured) on Wednesday . A country cries: Mourners brought flowers to lay by the memorial to honor Cpl Cirillo's life . Alleged killer: Michael Zehaf-Bibeau, accused of shooting Cp Cirillo, is seen in his 1997 high school year book . Mourners: Harper spent some time speaking to people at the memorial but made no public statement . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Corporal Nathan Cirillo's son Marcus bid farewell to his father on Friday . Youngster, who 'started Kindergarten this fall', carried into funeral home . Remains of tragic soldier were returned to Hamilton, Ontario from Ottawa . Cpl Cirillo shot dead on Wednesday as he guarded National War Memorial . Authorities still not certain what motivated killer Michael Zehaf-Bibeau . Yesterday, Prime Minister Stephen Harper was at the memorial to mark the resumption of honor-guard deployment, which was earlier suspended . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Corporal Nathan Cirillo's son Marcus bid farewell to his father on Friday . Youngster, who 'started Kindergarten this fall', carried into funeral home . Remains of tragic soldier were returned to Hamilton, Ontario from Ottawa . Cpl Cirillo shot dead on Wednesday as he guarded National War Memorial . Authorities still not certain what motivated killer Michael Zehaf-Bibeau . Yesterday, Prime Minister Stephen Harper was at the memorial to mark the resumption of honor-guard deployment, which was earlier suspended .

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<s>[ARTICLE] An Iranian strategic expert has warned that one of President Obama's daughters will be kidnapped and raped if America attacks Syria. Alireza Forghani, also the former governor of southern Iran’s Kish Province, warned of mass abductions and killings of American citizens worldwide in the event the Obama administration launches a military strike in Syria. 'Hopefully Obama will be pigheaded enough to attack Syria, and then we will see the … loss of U.S. interests [through terrorist attacks],' he threatened. 'In just 21 hours [after the attack on Syria], a family member of every U.S. minister [department secretary], U.S. ambassadors, U.S. military commanders around the world will be abducted. And then 18 hours later, videos of their amputation will be spread [around the world]' he said reported The Daily Caller. The threat comes amid reports today that the U.S has intercepted an order from an Iranian official instructing militants in Iraq to attack U.S. interests in Baghdad if the attack goes ahead. Claims: The U.S has intercepted an order from an Iranian official instructing militants in Iraq to attack U.S. interests in Baghdad in the event the Obama administration launches a military strike in Syria, it was reported today . The American embassy in Baghdad was a likely target, according to unnamed U.S. officials quoted by the Wall Street Journal. The Journal said the officials did not describe the range of potential targets indicated by the intelligence. In addition, the State Department issued a warning on Thursday telling U.S. citizens to avoid all but 'essential' travel to Iraq. President Barack Obama has asked the U.S. Congress to back his plan for limited strikes in response to a chemical weapons attack on civilians that the United States blames on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's forces. The Journal reported that the Iranian . message was intercepted in recent days and came from the head of the . Revolutionary Guards' Qods Force. Target: The American embassy in Baghdad was a likely target, according to unnamed U.S. officials quoted . Scrutiny: Iraqi security forces stand guard in Baghdad today. In addition, the State Department issued a warning on Thursday telling U.S. citizens to avoid all but 'essential' travel to Iraq . The newspaper said the message went to Iranian-supported Shi'ite militia groups in Iraq. The Journal reported that the message informed Shi'ite groups to be prepared to respond with force after any U.S. military strike on Syria. 'Travel within Iraq remains dangerous given the security situation,' according to the State Department's warning, which replaced an earlier one 'to update information on security incidents and to remind U.S. citizens of ongoing security concerns in Iraq, including kidnapping and terrorist violence.' Group photo: Russia's President Vladimir Putin, center front, stands with G-20 leaders during a group photo outside of the Konstantin Palace . Sunshine smiles : President Putin, left, President Obama and German Chancellor Angela Merkel and PM David Cameron as they pose for the family photo . The department said that numerous insurgent groups, including al Qaeda's Iraq affiliate, remain active and 'terrorist activity and sectarian violence persist in many areas of the country at levels unseen since 2008.' It added: 'The ability of the embassy to respond to situations in which U.S. citizens face difficulty, including arrests, is extremely limited.' The State Department declined immediate comment. The CIA declined comment. The US and France are so far the only nations attending the G20 to have backed the use of military force against the Assad regime, with Russia and China insisting that any action in the absence of UN Security Council approval would be illegal. Italian Prime Minister Enrico Letta - who also attended this morning's aid meeting - said in a tweet last night that 'the G20 has just now finished the dinner session, at which the divisions about Syria were confirmed'. Man on a mission: Obama has expanded a list of targets in Syria as he struggles to gather international support for military action . President Barack Obama, left, listens as Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, speaks during the start of the G-20 Working Session . US frustrations over Russia's stance were reflected in comments by the American envoy to the UN, Samantha Power, who told a New York news conference: 'Even in the wake of the flagrant shattering of the international norm against chemical weapons use, Russia continues to hold the (Security) Council hostage and shirk its international responsibilities. 'What we have learned, what the Syrian people have learned, is that the Security Council the world needs to deal with this crisis is not the Security Council we have.' The US Government accuses Assad's forces of killing 1,429 people in a poison-gas attack in a suburb of the Syrian capital, Damascus, on August 21. Britain announced yesterday that scientists at the Porton Down research laboratories have found traces of the nerve gas sarin on cloth and soil samples retrieved from the site of the attack. Meanwhile, there were signs that Mr Obama may struggle to secure support in Congress for his proposal of 'limited and proportionate' military action against Assad. A poll commissioned by the BBC and ABC News suggested more than one-third of Congress members were undecided whether or not to back military action, while a majority of those who had made a decision said they would vote against the President. The survey found that 226 members of the House of Representatives said they would oppose or were likely to oppose military action, against 45 who were certain or likely to support it and 189 who were undecided or did not respond. Some 17 members of the Senate were certain or likely to oppose Mr Obama's plans, against 23 certain or likely to back him and 60 whose position was undecided or unknown. [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Threats made by Alireza Forghani, former governor of Iran’s Kish Province . Unnamed U.S. officials: American embassy in Baghdad is a likely target . Officials did not describe range of potential targets indicated . State Department: U.S. citizens to avoid all but 'essential' travel to Iraq . Iranian message was intercepted in recent days . It came from the head of the Revolutionary Guards' Qods Force . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Threats made by Alireza Forghani, former governor of Iran’s Kish Province . Unnamed U.S. officials: American embassy in Baghdad is a likely target . Officials did not describe range of potential targets indicated . State Department: U.S. citizens to avoid all but 'essential' travel to Iraq . Iranian message was intercepted in recent days . It came from the head of the Revolutionary Guards' Qods Force .

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<s>[ARTICLE] Chilling details have emerged in the fatal shooting of a teenage boy by his younger sisters as both girls, aged 15 and 11, were charged with murder. Misty 'Ariel' Kornegay, 15, allegedly fatally shot her older brother with a gun that their parents had locked up while they were away with the help of her 11-year-old sister Nicole. The pair then took off from the home, authorities in Florida said on Wednesday. Law enforcement officials said they discovered the body of the 16-year-old brother, Damien Kornegay, late on Monday night at the family's single-story home in rural White Springs, north Florida. Charged: Misty 'Ariel' Kornegay, 15, and her sister Nicole Kornegay, 11, have both been charged with murder following the shooting of their brother on Monday . Nicole, aged 11, assisted in the shooting but didn't pull the trigger, sheriff's spokesman Murray Smith said. The older girl got the gun from a room that her parents had locked, Smith said, after the parents left the children home alone for days. The two Florida sisters have been charged with murder. But a motive for the shooting, in the town of fewer than 800 people on the banks of the Suwannee River, remained unclear on Tuesday. 'There's no real rhyme or reason to it,' Smith told The Gainesville Sun. On Wednesday morning, the family home was still cordoned off by crime scene tape. The family lives off a dirt road in rural Columbia County. A red truck and a car were parked outside the house, parked near a lawn mower and a scattering of children's toys. Few other houses are nearby. White Springs police said they began looking for the girls late on Monday night after a tip from the mother of the younger sister's friend. The friend had received a 'weird phone call' from the girl, saying she had run away and needed someone to pick her up from a Dollar General store, according to a police report. When the woman arrived, she found the older sister there, too. Damien Kornegay, 16, was allegedly murdered by his little sisters in their home . The older girl remarked that something might have been wrong with another sibling at home, officers Brad Meeks and Joseph Dyess noted in their report. The teen told the officers that her parents weren't expected home until 5am on Tuesday. As she spoke, she applied makeup and 'would not maintain eye contact and appeared emotionless,' the officers wrote. But soon she started crying and told the officers that her brother had beaten her, thrown her into her bedroom, and locked the door. She told officers that when he went to sleep, her younger sister unlocked the door. The teen said she then shot her brother, according to the report. The teen told authorities the weapon was on a blanket in the hallway. Deputies found the brother dead in the living room. A younger sibling, age three, also was in the home at the time and was in state custody Wednesday. The agency is working with deputies to determine what happened and to help the surviving siblings, Department of Children and Families spokesman John Harrell told The Gainesville Sun. He said state law prohibited him from releasing details of any past incidents the family might have had with the department. Keith Kornegay, 37 and Misty Kornegay, 33, were out of town at the time of the shooting, but were arrested Tuesday on charges of child neglect for failing to supervise their children . The parents were charged with child neglect and are accused of failing to supervise in the treatment of children, Smith said. He said the father is a truck driver and the mother had left with him on a trip. The home had no recent history of visits from the sheriff's office, Smith said. Third Circuit State Attorney Jeff Siegmeister said he hasn't decided whether to charge the girls as adults. Children arrested for crimes and treated as juveniles can be held in detention for a maximum of 21 days, per state law. But the judge has granted an extra nine days in this case, Siegmeister said. 'Sometimes we can send them home after that, but in light of all of the facts in this case, we don't have any place to send the children,' Siegmeister told The Sun. 'I may be forced to actually charge them as adults to hold them in juvenile detention until I can work something out. I don't know all of the facts yet.' On Wednesday morning, the family home was still cordoned off by crime scene tape. The family lives off a dirt road in rural Columbia County . [/ARTICLE] [SUMMARY] Misty Kornegay, 15, and her sister Nicole, 11, charged with murder following the shooting of their 16-year-old brother . The motive behind the murder, in north Florida, remained unclear . Parents, Keith Kornegay, 37 and Misty Kornegay, 33, were charged with child neglect after they left the children home alone . A friend said the 15-year-old 'applied make-up, would not make eye contact but indicated something may be wrong at the home' Police found Damien Kornegay's body in the living room along with a three-year-old sibling who was taken into state custody . [/SUMMARY]</s>

Misty Kornegay, 15, and her sister Nicole, 11, charged with murder following the shooting of their 16-year-old brother . The motive behind the murder, in north Florida, remained unclear . Parents, Keith Kornegay, 37 and Misty Kornegay, 33, were charged with child neglect after they left the children home alone . A friend said the 15-year-old 'applied make-up, would not make eye contact but indicated something may be wrong at the home' Police found Damien Kornegay's body in the living room along with a three-year-old sibling who was taken into state custody .

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