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Household name: Critics say Alan Titchmarsh has been given preferential treatment because of his popularity . His fellow gardeners were all banned from presenting at Chelsea Flower Show when they found themselves at risk of ‘conflict of interest’. But it appears when you are Alan Titchmarsh and regarded as the nation’s favourite green-fingered expert, the same guidelines don’t apply. The BBC was yesterday accused of having one rule for Titchmarsh and another for its lesser lights after it emerged the gardener has been allowed to present Chelsea Flower Show coverage while being the face of Waitrose, a sponsor at the event. The supermarket’s exhibit of UK produce — featuring fruit, vegetables, flowers and plants on sale in its stores — this week won a gold medal at Chelsea. Titchmarsh, 64, has a lucrative deal to promote the chain’s gardening range. Until recently, the 'nation’s favourite gardener' also had a multi-million-pound contract as an ambassador for B&Q, sponsor of Prince Harry’s garden at the Chelsea show. Last year the BBC banned three presenters — Joe Swift, Chris Beardshaw and Andy Sturgeon — who had designed Chelsea gardens from covering the event because of 'conflict of interest' concerns. But Titchmarsh, who appears prominently on Waitrose’s website hailing the show as 'magical', has not been dropped by the BBC this year. The presenter, who remains a 'friend of B&Q', according to the garden centre chain, was free to highlight Harry’s silver medal- winning garden on BBC2 this week. Critics claimed that the corporation has one rule for its best-known presenters and another for lesser lights. The gardening writer and broadcaster Steve Bradley said: 'It just seems to me the bigger you are the more you get away with. 'If these people are going to work for Waitrose or B&Q, the BBC shouldn’t have them doing Chelsea Flower Show and should give a chance to other guys who don’t get a look in. 'The bigger you become, the more they’ll bend the rules for you. Titchmarsh still does a good job but the rules are the rules and should apply to everybody.’ Axed: Joe Swift (left) and Andy Sturgeon (right) are counted among the lesser-known presenters who were taken off the programme last year because of their commercial interests in the competition . Following the rules: Diarmuid Gavin (left) was taken off BBC coverage in 2006 and Chris Beardshaw (right) could not commentate on last year's event while his design was in the running for a prize . Last year Titchmarsh’s usual Chelsea . co-presenter Joe Swift was dropped from the main evening programme after . he designed a show garden for DIY chain Homebase. And Beardshaw and Sturgeon were not allowed on screen until the winners of their category had been announced. Diarmuid Gavin was dropped by the BBC from its 2006 Chelsea coverage after appearing in a commercial for compost company Westland. And in 1976, Percy Thrower was axed by the BBC from his job presenting Gardener’s World for appearing in an ICI weedkiller advert. TaxPayers’ Alliance research director . John O’Connell said: 'It’s important the BBC does not let presenters . promote their commercial interests on a channel which is funded by . licence fee payers. 'It’s . also critical that if it has one rule for a presenter such as Alan . Titchmarsh it should have the same rules for everyone else.' Green fingered: Daily Mail journalist Chris Beardshaw could not work for BBC while his Wormcast Garden design (pictured) was in the Chelsea Flower Show in 2012 . By the book: Andy Sturgeon followed the guidelines last year and bowed out of presenting while his Cancer Research UK garden (pictured) was on show. The same rules have not been applied to Mr Titchmarsh's commercial interest . The BBC said: 'Alan has ensured that his relationship with Waitrose does not breach our guidelines and will not impact on show coverage. 'He will not be associated with the Waitrose exhibit, as is the case with other BBC presenters who have commercial relationships with Chelsea exhibitors. 'Alan can mention B&Q if it is editorially relevant. As he no longer has a contract with B&Q, there is no conflict of interest.' Titchmarsh’s agent Annie Sweetbaum said: 'The only stand that Alan cannot mention is the one being sponsored by Waitrose.'
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Presenter Alan Titchmarsh, 64 accused of having a 'conflict of interest' as the ambassador for Waitrose .
BBC accused of giving Titchmarsh special treatment while lesser-known presenters were dropped for commercial interests last year .
Presenter didn't commentate on exhibit sponsored by Waitrose, which won a medal at the show this week .
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By . Mark Duell . PUBLISHED: . 05:54 EST, 8 October 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 06:24 EST, 8 October 2013 . An historic Grade II-listed house where Oliver Cromwell plotted a key Civil War battle has gone on the market for £800,000. Cromwell and his right-hand man General Sir Thomas Fairfax met at Wickham Court in Bristol on the eve of the New Model Army’s attack on the city. Hours later the Parliamentarians launched a raid prompting weeks of fighting which left hundreds dead and ended one of the Civil War’s longest sieges. Historic property: Wickham Court in Bristol, where Oliver Cromwell plotted a famous Civil War victory, is on the market for £800,000 . Spacious: The living room at Wickham Court, a 17th-century property in British with six-bedrooms complete with huge oak ceiling beams . Time to relax: The spacious stone-built home in Bristol includes a study, sitting room with a beautiful terrace and a drawing room . Anyone for tea? The dining room at Wickham Court - a property which boasts rubble facades and detailed carvings from the period . Picture perfect: Wickham Court in Bristol has views out over a large walled garden and the picturesque River Frome . The 17th-century house holds few clues to the pivotal role it played - but does boast rubble facades and detailed carvings from the period. A blue plaque on the side of Wickham Court records the meeting between Oliver Cromwell (right) and General Sir Thomas Fairfax on the night of September 10, 1645. Before the night attack, the people of Bristol and surrounding towns had endured months of hunger and hardship after Sir Thomas and his troops cut off supplies to Royalist soldiers. At 2am on the morning after the meeting, two cannon shots boomed out over the city to give the signal to attack. After days of fighting, Royalist commander Prince Rupert was eventually forced to sign a treaty of surrender - a defeat which cost the lives of around 200 of his own soldiers. With views out over a large walled garden and the picturesque River Frome, the spacious stone-built home includes a study, sitting room with a beautiful terrace and a drawing room. It is being marketed by estate agents Hamptons after its owners restored the building under the guidance of English Heritage experts. In an online listing for the home, estate agents said: ‘Wickham Court is an historic and important early 17th century former court. ‘Grade II listed, it displays a plethora of period charm typical of this building period and house of historic note. ‘Wickham Court is historically important as Oliver Cromwell and General Fairfax are believed to have held council in the rooms in 1645 before their march to Bristol. Utility room: The property is being marketed by estate agents Hamptons after its owners restored the building under the guidance of English Heritage experts . Bedroom: In an online listing for the home, estate agents said the property is 'an historic and important early 17th century former court' Food for thought: The 17th century house holds few clues to the pivotal role it played - but does boast rubble facades and detailed carvings from the period . Remembered: A blue plaque on the side of the house records the fateful meeting on the evening of September 10, 1645 . Historic: At 2am on the morning after the meeting in the property, two cannon shots boomed out over the city to give the signal to attack . Beautiful location: The garden at Wickham Court, where Oliver Cromwell plotted a famous victory, which is on the market for £800,000 . ‘Deep rubble facades and detailed . period carvings throughout provide a charming and spacious entertaining . area. It has generous entertaining spaces as well as cellars and . utilities. ‘The house is beheld only to its own spectacular grounds approaching some of an acre which is a rare find for a city house. ‘The . grounds are walled and split into a number of sections and enjoy a . peaceful surrounding backing on to maintained woodland to the rear of . the house.’ Religious dogma: When King Charles I took the throne in 1625, his reign was met with almost immediate murmurs of discontent . The Civil War was a series of battles from 1642 to 1651 between Royalists and Parliamentarians. When King Charles I took the throne in 1625, his reign was met with almost immediate murmurs of discontent. His was a style of governance defined by religious dogma and a stubborn opposition to parliamentary rule. This bred feelings of alienation and deep mistrust in pockets of England, while in Scotland tensions with the English boiled over into bloody conflict. The embattled king was forced to form a parliament in 1640, and within this a vocal and highly critical Puritan faction began to grow. When a violent Catholic rebellion broke out in Ireland, disagreements over how to respond split England in two, and in 1642 the English Civil War broke out. The Royalists, based largely in the north and west, fought for the king, while the Roundheads, also known as Parliamentarians, came mainly from the south and east. They took their nickname from their preference for closely cropped hair, which set them apart from the ringlets of courtly Royalists. The battles that followed saw Charles's forces, bolstered by the Welsh and Cornish, clash with a Roundhead army swollen with Londoners. The Royalists looked to be on the brink of victory in 1643, until their enemies joined forces with the Scots. In 1644, the king's men suffered a crushing defeat at Marston Moor, North Yorkshire, effectively conceding the north. A further loss at Naseby, Northamptonshire, was the final nail in the coffin. The king gave himself up to the Scots and they promptly passed him on to their Roundhead allies, who were in the early stages of establishing a republican regime. He was executed in 1649, but not before inciting further clashes known as the Second Civil War.
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Cromwell and his right-hand man General Sir Thomas Fairfax met at Wickham Court in Bristol on eve of attack .
Hours later the Parliamentarians launched a bloody raid prompting weeks of fighting which left hundreds dead .
This beautiful 17th-century Grade II-listed house boasts rubble facades and detailed carvings from the period .
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Children as young as 11 have been victims of ‘revenge porn’, new figures have revealed. School pupils are having their lives ruined by classmates posting explicit images – either obtained consensually or stolen – online without permission to humiliate them. Adults have also been blackmailed into having sex with their tormentors after being threatened with having supposedly private images of them naked placed on the internet. Scroll down for video . Hannah Davison, 21, (right) was mortified when Christopher Todd (left) sent an intimate photo of her to her mother’s phone after their break-up . Demands for tough new laws to crack down on the humiliating practice have increased after celebrities, including pop star Rihanna and movie actress Jennifer Lawrence, fell victim to the cruel craze. Figures uncovered using freedom of information laws revealed 149 cases of revenge porn in the last three years – although campaigners said this was the ‘tip of the iceberg’. Of the eight police forces who responded, the number of incidents had risen from 35 in 2012 to 58 a year later. In the first six months of 2014, there were 56 cases reported – meaning the total is expected to double by the end of the year. Worryingly, only six incidents resulted in a police caution or charge – meaning the culprits in many cases have escaped scot-free. Rihanna and Jennifer Lawrence have both recently had nude photos posted online by a hacker . Police are largely powerless to stop the unpleasant practice until specific new laws intended to make revenge porn a crime, which are currently going through Parliament, are introduced. Laura Higgins, of the UK Safer Internet Centre helpline, said the true scale of the problem remained hidden. She said: ‘I feel this is just the tip of the iceberg. Plenty of people, particularly young people, won’t want to go down the police route or even speak about them at all, so many incidents are going unnoticed. ‘Our research shows that for every site we find, there are potentially dozens with those images on which the victim has no idea about. ‘We are living in an age where technology is a part of our everyday lives, and children are becoming sexualised at a younger age. Former culture secretary Maria Miller has worked to stamp out revenge porn . ‘But we must do what we can to tackle bullying, harassment and sharing explicit content without permission.’ Sarah Green, of the End Violence Against Women Coalition, said: ‘The ability to abuse through technology is growing fast and its impact is very real, which is why politicians and the police must get to grips with it.’ The survey revealed a girl aged just 11 from Manchester had indecent images of her posted on the internet. In Cambridgeshire, a schoolboy circulated naked photos of a fellow pupil on Facebook so all her friends could see them. In another case in the county, a taxi driver blackmailed a passenger into having sex after discovering naked images of her, and another man was coerced into having gay sex amid fears a woman would post naked photos of him on social media. Former culture secretary Maria Miller, who has campaigned to stamp out the despicable trend, said the data showed revenge porn was more widespread than previously thought. She said: ‘Police are finding it difficult to know how to react when incidents are reported. All of this points to the need for a clarification of the law, and also to make sure it’s clear revenge porn and the posting of it is a criminal offence. This is not a victimless crime - it is a sexual act against another individual.’ A Facebook spokesman said: ‘Facebook has a strict policy against the sharing of pornographic content. We encourage people to use our reporting tools to highlight anything they find unacceptable. If it breaks our rules it will be removed.’ Last week the Mail told how a young woman was left distraught after her ex-boyfriend sent naked ‘revenge porn’ pictures of her to her parents. Hannah Davison, 21, was mortified when Christopher Todd sent an intimate photo of her to her mother’s phone after their break-up - in a message then opened by her father. Todd, 22, from Boldon Colliery, Tyne and Wear, was given a suspended sentence for sending the offensive message, which claimed Ms Davison was spreading sexually transmitted diseases.
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Children of 11 have been victims of revenge porn, new figures show .
School pupils are having their lives ruined by explicit images posted online .
Adults have also been blackmailed into having sex with their tormentors .
Demands for tough new laws to crack down on the practice have increased .
Follows the nude celebrity hacking scandal affecting the likes of Rihanna .
Figures revealed 149 cases of revenge porn in the last three years .
Although campaigners said this was just the ‘tip of the iceberg’
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Suicide: An autopsy report has confirmed that director Tony Scott killed himself in August . Filmmaker Tony Scott had anti-depressants and sleeping pills when he killed himself by jumping off a bridge in August, an autopsy report revealed on Monday. The report by the Los Angeles County coroner confirmed that the Top Gun director's death was a suicide, and listed the cause of death as multiple blunt force injuries. It said that he also drowned after leaping from the Vincent Thomas Bridge into Los Angeles harbour on August 19. Scott had therapeutic levels of the anti-depressant Remeron and the sleep aid Lunesta in his system when he died, the report has revealed. It has long been assumed that the director had killed himself, as he left a number of apparent suicide notes in his car when he died. However, the notes did not suggest any motive for the suicide, and his death certificate did not initially list a cause. Initial reports that he had been suffering from terminal brain cancer have now been confirmed to be incorrect. 'There was no evidence of neoplasia - cancer - identified,' coroner Craig Harvey told the Los Angeles Times. He added that Scott did not appear to have been suffering from any serious long-term illness at all. 911 tapes released earlier this month revealed that at least five female motorists reported seeing Scott leap to his death. The 68-year-old filmmaker committed suicide by jumping off Vincent . Thomas Bridge, linking the Port of Los Angeles and Long Beach, in broad . daylight on August 19 in full view of boaters and passing drivers. Disheveled: Scott was pictured looking pained as he dined out in Beverly Hills on July 23 . ‘We are just on the Vincent Thomas . Bridge and there’s a guy that looks like he’s just about to jump off … . he’s jumped, he’s jumped, [off] the Vincent Thomas Bridge in San Pedro!’ said one 911 caller. Another witness reported the fatal . leap to 911 operators, and was then transferred to a fire dispatcher. During the transfer, she could be heard gasping: ‘Oh my God.’ The caller said: ‘He was a bald white guy. Oh my gosh, he just jumped off the bridge. We actually witnessed the whole thing.’ Motorists driving over the bridge . reported seeing a black Toyota Prius, lights still flashing, parked on . the side, as an older white male climbed a pole before leaping more than . 185 feet into the water. Scott had been preparing to do a sequel to his 1986 Tom Cruise hit Top Gun. He and Cruise were spotted in Fallon, . Nevada — where the Navy’s Top Gun program had been based before moving . to San Diego — meeting with Navy officials, a week before the suicide. Unclear: His death certificate initially failed to list a cause of death for the well-known director . Coroner's office spokesman Ed Winter . says one of the notes left in Scott's black Toyota Prius was a list of . emergency contact numbers and another found in his study included . messages to friends and loved ones. The note in the car listed names and . contact numbers - including that of his wife - so police could call his . friends to tell them of his death, TMZ reported. Brother: Ridley Scott is pictured here at his office in West Hollywood in the days following his brothers death . The mystery surrounding the suicide . deepened after the chairman of 20th Century Fox said that the director . was 'burning with excitement' over new projects just two weeks before . his suicide. 'We had a meeting just two weeks ago . and he was burning with the excitement of creating stuff,' said Tom . Rothman. Scott had more big-budget Hollywood . films lined up, but his death has left them in limbo, as well as . stunning his family and friends. Friends of the director said that he . had no marriage or money problems and was focused on the 'Top Gun' sequel which was preparing to go into production early next year. Scott was also in pre-production on . an underwater drug-trafficking thriller 'Narco-Sub', another smuggling . drama 'Lucky Strike' and a remake of the 1969 western 'The Wild Bunch'. While celebrity website TMZ reported . that Scott's wife didn't know of any serious illness that may have been a . motive, it raised the possibility that the director of Crimson Tide . may have kept his illness secret. If not there must have been a . different reason behind his decision to leap from the Vincent Thomas . Bridge in Long Beach on Sunday afternoon. He left a contact list of people to . be informed about the tragedy in the Toyota Prius he abandoned before . climbing a fence and jumping into the Pacific. The director was said to have leaped to his death 'without hesitation' in an effort to spare his family the pain of watching his slow death, . ABC News reported. But hours later, ABC backed away from that report and the Los Angeles Times confirmed that Scott's family told the corner's office Scott did not have cancer - or any major illness. 'The . family told us it is incorrect that he has inoperable brain cancer,' Craig Harvey, a chief at the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office told . the newspaper. Tragic: Los Angeles polie officers pulled the body of Tony Scott from the water beneath the Vincent Thomas Bridge in San Pedro, California . The denial of his brain cancer begs the question - what could have driven the successful director, whose . films have grossed more than $2 billion and who left behind a young family, to kill himself? Tony Scott's tragic death came just . weeks after he was pictured looking pained as he left a Beverly Hills . restaurant on July 23 - but friends denied he had problems in his . marriage to wife Donna. A source told the New York Post: 'He did have . cancer, and for a while he was cancer free. He didn’t have any money . problems or marriage problems.' The beloved filmmaker, who . directed movies including Top Gun, Beverly Hills Cop II and Enemy Of . The State and was the younger brother of director Ridley Scott, fell within feet of a cruise boat as horrified tourists watched. 'He landed right next to our tour boat, and many . of us saw the whole thing,' a witness, who had been on the cruise around the Los Angeles Harbour, told TMZ. According to the Contra Costa Times, Scott climbed a fence on the south side of the bridge, which spans San Pedro and Terminal Island, and leaped off 'without hesitation'. A view of the Vincent Thomas Bridge in San Pedro, California from where Tony Scott jumped to his death . A witness, who was a passenger in a car driving along the bridge, said Scott looked nervous. 'He was on the roadway close to the fence looking around. He was looking around and fumbling with something at his feet. He looked nervous,' David Silva told the Los Angeles Times. Silva thought he was a stuntman or taking part in an extreme sports event - until he realised there was no safety cord. He went on: '[He] paused a couple of seconds and then began . to climb the fence. He put his foot on the top of the fence and paused . again. Then he threw himself off. I immediately thought, that guy is . dead.' Friends told the New York Post they were not surprised that the director chose to leap to his death as he was a thrill-seeker who loved scaling high mountains. Several people called 911 around . 12.35pm to report that someone had jumped off the bridge, according to Los Angeles police Lt. Tim . Nordquist.
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Director's cause of death confirmed as suicide two months after he killed himself by jumping off bridge into Los Angeles harbour .
Autopsy report reveals he had taken anti-depressants and sleeping pills .
But coroner found 'no evidence of cancer' despite earlier rumours .
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(CNN) -- All eyes shifted toward the beginning of the runway when a dark-haired model strutted out in a star-spangled red bikini to a fusillade of flashbulbs at Tommy Hilfiger's New York Fashion Week show on Monday. She fit right in at nearly 5'11" tall with a svelte frame. But despite adhering to the anonymous runway model aesthetic, Kendall Jenner tends to stand out. She's on a first-name basis with millions. Just look at her stats: On Facebook, she has almost 7 million followers; on Twitter, 8.75 million; and on Instagram, a whopping 13.3 million. The teen, who appears alongside her paparazzi-favorite family in "Keeping Up with Kardashians," is trying to find her own footing in the high-fashion world without her polarizing siblings and parents. "You just don't know how (casting directors) are going to react to it. It could be like 'Oh, just another reality TV star coming in, trying to be something,' " Jenner said. "This is what I want to do. ... This is my career. This is what I wanted to be." During this New York Fashion Week, which ends Thursday, Jenner has made enviable strides by modeling for Donna Karan, Tommy Hilfiger and Diane von Furstenberg. In von Furstenberg's show, she walked behind legendary supermodel Naomi Campbell and Victoria's Secret Angel Candice Swanepoel, both of whom Jenner says she looks up to. The 18-year-old is on the cover of the September issue of Teen Vogue and appears in the fashion-heavy September issue of its high-end counterpart, Vogue. This year, she walked for high-fashion brands overseas like Chanel, Giles and Givenchy. "When I started, I had no idea how this was going to turn out," she said. "It's still so surreal that I've walked in shows like Givenchy and Chanel. It's ridiculous." Like anything Kardashian-related, Jenner's presence in this world has not come without controversy: Where models are dodging street style photographers, she's dodging paparazzi and hit pieces in the media about the distraction her presence brings. Compared with some of her high-fashion counterparts who can walk upwards of 20 runways during the weeklong event before heading to London, Paris and Milan, Jenner is still a fledgling in her second season, with three shows thus far. Despite it all, her name does garner press. See all of CNN Living's New York Fashion Week coverage . Before Fashion Week started, she decided to omit her last name from her casting card, which is sent out to runway suitors from her agency, The Society Management. "I just felt like I didn't want a last name to help me in any way," Jenner said, making it clear that the decision is not a slight to her family. "Whenever I went into a casting, I didn't need any special treatment." But, to play the devil-in-Prada's advocate, she also credits growing up in front of a lens with helping her improve her modeling skills. Her mother, Kris Jenner, is a business manager and executive producer for her family's show, and her father is Olympic decathlete Bruce Jenner. "Whether it was a big TV camera or a little picture camera, I feel like I've always been in front of a camera," Jenner said. Modeling is an easy transition, she says, and something she's wanted to do since she was a young girl. In her Fashion Week debut in February, she made a splash with a chest-baring look for Marc Jacobs, which Jenner describes as a " 'hello world' kind of moment." It's a far cry from the shy child she used to be. "When I was a kid, I couldn't have a slumber party for one night without crying myself to sleep and telling my dad to pick me up at 10 o'clock at night," Jenner said. Given her exposure, it's easy to forget she's a California girl, straight out of high school. "I was so terrified to get in a cab the first time I was here," Jenner admitted. As for what's coming up for the ingenue, Jenner shares two words familiar to any TV watcher: "Stay tuned."
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Kendall Jenner has been dubbed a model to watch in the fashion world .
She first gained attention via her family's reality show "Keeping Up with Kardashians"
"I feel like I've always been in front of a camera," she says .
Jenner has walked for designers like Chanel, Marc Jacobs and Givenchy .
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By . Harriet Arkell . Actor Bill Roache, 81, appeared at Preston Crown Court for a preliminary hearing to fix a trial date over alleged child sex offences, which he denies . Coronation Street star Bill Roache will face trial in January over allegations of historic sexual offences against five girls. The 81-year-old actor, who was charged in May with two counts of raping a teenage girl in 1967, appeared at Preston Crown Court today so a trial date could be set. The actor, who has played Ken Barlow in the ITV1 soap since its launch, last week faced fresh charges of five indecent assaults involving four girls aged between 11 or 12 and 16. He denies all the charges. Roache appeared today for a five-minute preliminary hearing and was bailed until his next court appearance on September 2 when he will enter formal pleas. His trial date was fixed for January 13. Last week, Roache’s lawyer said his client was looking forward to standing before a jury to 'vigorously protest his innocence' over 'deeply upsetting' child sex allegations. The world's longest-serving soap actor will not be appearing in the programme until legal proceedings are concluded. Today he entered the dock in Court 10 and spoke only to confirm his full name. Scroll down for video . He was granted conditional bail by the Recorder of Preston, Judge Anthony Russell QC. The latest claims arose from the publicity over his arrest at his home in Wilmslow, Cheshire, on May 1, and his subsequent charging on the same day. The fresh charges, which relate to separate alleged victims, are said to have been committed in the Manchester area in 1965 and 1968. Roache is on bail with various conditions including residence, no direct unsupervised contact with anyone under 16 and not to approach named witnesses. Fellow Coronation Street star Michael Le Vell, who plays mechanic Kevin Webster, is also currently off air after being charged with 19 sexual offences against a child, including rape, indecent assault and sexual activity. He denies the charges, which are not linked to Roache. Roache appeared at Preston Crown Court this morning for a preliminary hearing that lasted just five minutes . Roache, who has played Ken Barlow in the ITV1 soap since its launch, is the world's longest-serving soap actor . Bill Roache arrived at Preston Crown Court this morning dressed in a smart navy suit, shirt and tie . Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.
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Coronation Street actor, 81, who plays Ken Barlow, is charged with two counts of raping a 15-year-old girl in 1967 .
He also faces fresh charges of five indecent assaults against four girls aged 11-16 in 1965 and 1968 .
Roache, of Wilmslow, denies all the charges - trial will be in January 2014 .
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Killer and rapist: Jorge Torrez has indicated that he would rather face the death penalty than trial for the murders of two Illinois girls in 2005 and laughed when he heard one of the girl's father's was convicted of the killings . An ex-marine charged with fatally stabbing and raping two young girls in 2005, might never stand trial for their killings - and laughed when he was told the father of one of the children wrongly spent five years in prison for the crime. Illinois native, Jorge Torrez, was found guilty earlier this month of another murder - that of Navy sailor Amanda Snell - and has refused to defend himself as the jury decides whether to sentence him to death or life without parole for that crime. Indeed, as part of that process in the Virginia court room, the jury heard the frantic and horrifying 911 call made by the wrongly imprisoned Jerry Hobbs, after he discovered the mutilated bodies of his daughter, Laura Hobbs, 8, and her friend Krystal Tobias, 9. That horrifying crime occurred in Lake County in Illinois and authorities there are keen to have Torrez stand trial - despite his insistence on being put on death row. The Virginia court were shown graphic pictures of the crime scene and heard Hobbs, who is now, 43, moaning in the background after he and Laura's grandfather, Art Hollabaugh, made the gruesome discovery in a nearby park. Hollabaugh traveled to Virginia to speak at the sentencing hearing of Torrez on Tuesday. Guilt: Torrez is charged with the killing of two young girls in 2005 in his hometown of Zion — 8-year-old Laura Hobbs (left) and 9-year-old Krystal Tobias (right) Wrongly conviction: Jerry Hobbs had pleaded not guilty in the stabbing deaths of his 8-year-old daughter, Laura, and her friend, 9-year-old Krystal Tobias in Zion, about 50 miles north of Chicago - but a jury decided otherwise after he confessed after an alleged case of police brutality . 'Jerry started screaming that he found the girls and they were dead,' Hollabaugh said according to the Chicago Tribune. 'I told him 'No, they're not.' Judge Liam O'Grady then cautioned jurors they were about to see 'disturbing' images. Authorities in Illinois initially charged Laura's father with the killings, after prosecutors say a 20-hour interrogation yielded a false confession. But DNA evidence eventually led authorities to Torrez. Torrez has ordered his lawyers not to fight prosecutors' case for execution. Asked if Torrez was now welcoming the death penalty, his lawyer said to the court on Tuesday: 'That is a fair and reasonable deduction.' He said Torrez continues to maintain he did not kill Snell, 'but he understands he has been convicted and he will either spend 60-odd years of his life locked away in a supermax (prison) or he gets the death penalty.' Family grief in 2005: Prosecutors alleged Hobbs killed them because he was angry his daughter was outside when she was supposed to be home. Police said Hobbs confessed to the slayings, but his attorneys said the confession was coerced . Earlier this month, a jury in U.S. District Court in Alexandria convicted Jorge Torrez, 25, of killing Navy Petty Officer Amanda Snell in July 2009. Both lived in the barracks on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall in Arlington County. Torrez is already serving a life sentence for abducting three women in Arlington, raping one of them repeatedly and leaving her for dead. He is also charged in the killing of two young girls in 2005 in his hometown of Zion — 8-year-old Laura Hobbs and 9-year-old Krystal Tobias. Laura’s father, Jerry, was originally charged in that case and spent five years in custody until the DNA evidence pointed to Torrez. Hobbs said he was coerced into a false confession. Illinois prosecutors are still waiting to put Torrez on trial. Denials: Jerry Hobbs vehemently denied the brutal killings and was freed in 2010 by a court in Illinois . Torrez was only 16 at the time of the girls’ deaths. Lake County State’s Attorney Mike Nerheim said he wants to try Torrez for the Zion killings as soon as possible. The case should be tried locally in “the interest of justice,” Nerheim said. 'The alternative would be for me to simply dismiss this case, and two little girls lost their lives as a result of his conduct,' Nerheim said. Snell’s murder went unsolved for nearly two years. Even though she was found stuffed into a wall locker with a pillow case over her head, the medical examiner did not rule her death a homicide, and the autopsy found no signs of sexual assault. After Torrez was arrested in the Arlington abductions in 2010, DNA evidence through semen connected him to the slayings in Illinois and to Snell’s murder. Torrez lived eight doors down from Snell in the barracks. Scant consolation: Jerry Hobbs received a payout of $8 million for his wrongful conviction - but his daughters killer may yet not see trial . Jurors also heard recordings of a confession Torrez made to an inmate who was acting as a confidential informant. The same informant told police that Torrez laughed when he was told that Hobbs was convicted of his own daughters murder and that of her friend. Despite his confession, Hobbs always maintained it was beaten out of him by police. At the time of his release in 2010, the-then Lake County State's Attorney Michael Waller said he was not convinced that Hobbs didn't have a role in the killings, but he said he didn't believe the case could be proved beyond a reasonable doubt. Regardless, Hobbs received $8 million in compensation in 2012 for his wrongful conviction and imprisonment. In 2005, investigators quickly decided that Hobbs was the prime suspect after he discovered both the girls face up and side by side in Beulah Park in Zion the day after Mother's Day. Hobbs, who had recently been released from a Texan prison had a history of drunken violence - including a rampage with a chainsaw in a trailer park in 2001. After a 20-hour interrogation, Hobbs signed a statement admitting to the killings, according to court records. He later recanted.
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Jorge Torrez, 25, is currently facing sentencing in Virginia for the murder of US Navy sailor, Amanda Snell .
He has refused to defend himself and his defense team believe this indicates he wants the death penalty .
Torrez is also suspected of murdering Laura Hobbs, 8, and her friend Krystal Tobias, 9, in 2005 in Illinois .
DNA evidence and a recorded confession to another inmate strongly links him to the brutal raping and stabbing .
Jerry Hobbs, the father of Laura, was wrongly convicted of their murders in 2005 .
He was released in 2010 and received a payout of $8 million .
Torrez reportedly laughed when he was told the victim's father had been found guilty .
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Panama City (CNN) -- Former Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega arrived Sunday evening in his home country, nearly 22 years after U.S. forces forcibly removed him from office. The 77-year-old was taken straight to El Renacer prison to serve time for crimes committed during his rule. Reporters flooded the medium-security facility in Gamboa, but the former leader was shielded from public view. Officials later confirmed that he was there. Earlier, Noriega arrived at the Tocumen International Airport in Panama City, where security was tight. "I think it has historic and symbolic significance," said Michael Shifter, president of the Washington D.C.-based Inter-American Dialogue, about Noriega's return. "It's a sense of closure for the Panamanian people. He clearly was a dictator for six years and presided over assassinations, disappearances and killing of opposition leaders. And so I think that it's something that was unfinished business and I think it's important for Panama to have a sense of closure," he said. Noriega's extradition process began Sunday morning with a flight from Paris to Madrid. He was in Spanish police custody during a four-hour layover before leaving Madrid Sunday afternoon on a flight to Panama City, a spokesman for Spain's airport authority said. Last month, a French court authorized his extradition to Panama, where officials want Noriega to face justice in the killings of Hugo Spadafora, his political opponent, and at least one other person. He was convicted in absentia. Speaking outside of the prison complex in Gamboa, Noriega's attorney said his client deserves fair representation. "He (Noriega) wanted to return to the country and face in this land the charges for which he was tried in absentia," attorney Julio Berrios told reporters. "General Noriega is accused of having participated in three homicides. U.S. President George H.W. Bush invaded us and that cost 4,000 deaths. Has anybody said anything against Bush?" he said. Noriega has been in France since 2010, after two decades in an American prison. Authorities have strengthened security to guarantee his safety in Panama, according to Panamanian Foreign Minister Roberto Henriquez. "We have to be ready for all the possibilities in all aspects. Noriega inspires very big emotions, and Noriega's life could very well be at risk in Panama," Henriquez said. Interior Minister Roxana Mendez said Noriega will receive the same treatment as other inmates in the Panamanian prison. "The Panamanian state has no special consideration when it comes to him serving his sentence inside the prison complex," Mendez said. "However, based on our laws, and if there's a valid request from his attorneys, they can ask that he be transferred from the prison to house arrest if the inmate's health is in jeopardy or if the inmate, being over 70 years old, may face risks inside the prison complex." Last year, a French court sentenced Noriega to seven years in prison for laundering 2.3 million euros ($2.9 million) through banks there. He was ordered to pay the money back. Noriega denied the charges. For almost two decades, Noriega was a major player in a country of critical regional importance to the United States because of its location on the Panama Canal, the key strategic and economic waterway between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans on the narrow isthmus linking the Americas. Amid growing unrest in Panama, then-U.S. President Bush ordered the invasion of Panama in December 1989, saying Noriega's rule posed a threat to U.S. lives and property. Noriega fled his offices and tried to seek sanctuary in the Vatican Embassy in Panama City. He surrendered in January 1990 and was quickly escorted to the United States for civilian trial. Noriega was indicted in the United States on charges of racketeering, laundering drug money and drug trafficking. He was accused of having links to Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar's notorious Medellin cartel and, in the process, amassing a multimillion-dollar fortune. He was convicted of drug trafficking and other crimes in the United States. While in U.S. custody, he suffered from prostate cancer and a stroke. The man who once loomed large in Panama, Noriega returned home a shadow of his former self. "I don't think it's going to change in great measure the politics in Panama," said Shifter. "The country has moved on. They're interested in different things. Many young people don't even know about the Noriega era. But I think for those who do remember I think it is important," he said. CNN's Rafael Fuenmayor, Alexander Felton and Rafael Romo contributed to this report.
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Manuel Noriega arrives at El Renacer prison in Gamboa .
His attorney says the former dictator deserves fair representation .
Noriega was convicted in absentia for crimes committed during his rule .
Because of his age, he may ask to serve time under house arrest .
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Murdered: Chris Preece was stabbed to death on his farmstead by robbers who took mobile phones . A British engineer was murdered and his wife brutally beaten at their remote South African farm by robbers who took just £210 cash and a mobile phone. Chris Preece, 54, who made his home there after ‘falling in love with the country’ was hacked to death in his kitchen by a gang with machetes. His wife Felicity, 56, was stabbed and hit with a pole, fracturing her skull. She survived a 12-hour wait for help by treating her own wounds. The murder, on Saturday evening, is the latest in a spate of violent robberies in South Africa targeting relatively wealthy white farmers. Mr Preece, originally from Southgate, north London, was attacked at about 7pm as he went to take his seven dogs for a walk at his farm near Ficksburg, on the Lesotho border. The gang killed him, then attacked his wife. ‘Because the gang had cut the telephone wires and there is no mobile phone reception, she couldn’t get help,’ said friend and neighbour Gavin Hoole. ‘It was only the next morning, at around 7am, that anyone realised something was wrong.’ Mr Preece’s South African daughter-in-law Jeanne Preece said he had gone to the country in 1995 to work as a geotechnical engineer with diamond firm De Beers. ‘He fell in love with South Africa from day one,’ she said yesterday. Last year he was made principal geotechnical engineer for rival mining firm Snowden in . Johannesburg. He would drive 200 miles home to his wife every weekend. The couple kept horses and were in the process of transforming the farm into a nature reserve with cheetahs and birds of prey. Jeanne Preece, who is married to their son, said the couple, who have two daughters, were unaware there had been a murder and four robberies on local farms in the past month. Felicity Preece was yesterday said to be in a ‘stable but traumatised state’ in hospital. The region: Mr Preece was murdered just outside of Ficksburg which is on the border of Lesotho . Mr Preece's death is the latest in an alarming trend of brutal murders on remote farmsteads in post apartheid South Africa. Since . the country's first fully democratic elections in 1994, more than 3,000 . white, mainly Afrikaans, farmers have been killed in their homes. The so-called 'farm attacks' are part of the wave of criminality that has engulfed the country in recent years, something criminologist blame of a number of factors, including inept policing and widening social inequality. But in the case of 'farm attacks' - which occur far from the crime-ravaged townships - academics also blame a breakdown in the traditional social contract between employer and employee. Police research shows that the murders are normally carried out by drug-addicted, unemployed black men. Often they have some connection with the targeted farmstead. Local police said the attack at Mr Preece's farm - called Fleur de Lys - is the fifth such attack, and the second murder, in the district over the past month. Yesterday Jeanne Preece told the local Volksblad newspaper how Mr Preece had moved to South Africa in 1995 for work, after which he had 'fallen in love' with the country. He worked as principal geotechnical engineer for mining firm Snowden and was based in the country's commercial capital Johannesburg. However he spent every weekend on the farm, 200 miles drive away, where he wife Felicity lived. The couple were passionate about wildlife and welcomed local children to the farm to teach them to ride horses. Rural: A wave of attacks on farms has been blamed on social inequality (pictured is a general view of the area near Ficksburg where Mr Preece's farmstead lies) It had been the couple's dream to turn the farm, which is set in rolling green hills, into a nature reserve and rehabilitation resort for owls and cheetahs. He was especially looking forward to seeing all his family over Christmas, Mrs Preece said. Yesterday a spokesman for the hospital at which Mrs Preece is being treated said she is in a 'stable but traumatized state'. Local police spokesman Captain Phumelelo Dhlamini said police were alerted to the attack by a worker who discovered the bloody scene as he arrived for work on Sunday morning. He said the murder weapons were found in the house. Police have not yet arrested anyone in connection with the attack, which locals believe to have been committed by men who crossed the nearby border from Lesotho.
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Chris Preece's wife was also injured in the attack which happened after robbers poisoned their guard dogs .
This farm attack is the latest in a string of similar incidents and has been blamed on social inequality .
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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 14:28 EST, 10 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 14:28 EST, 10 January 2014 . The heartbroken parents of a 12-year-old Tennessee girl who died of pneumonia discovered a letter she wrote to herself to be opened in 10 years. But now the letter is serving as a precious reminder to the couple of their darling daughter, Taylor Scout Smith, who died in Johnson City, Tennessee, Sunday. They found her note in a sealed envelope while cleaning up her room. Tragic death: Taylor Scout Smith, 12, died of complications from pneumonia on Sunday. She had written a note to herself and sealed it in an envelope for her to open in 10 years . Dear Taylor: The letter was written by the 12-year-old in April last year . Heartbroken: Taylor leaves behind an older brother and her parents. The two-page note starts saying: ‘Dear Taylor, How’s life? Life is pretty simple 10 years in your past,’ according to CBS11. ‘Congratulations on graduating high school, if you didn't, go back and keep trying, get that degree…Do you have your own place yet? If we're in college what are we majoring in? Right now I want to be a lawyer.’ She goes on to write: ‘Remember it's been 10 years since I wrote this. Stuff has happened good and bad, that's just how life works and you have to go with it.’ The girl was religious and in the note she reminded her future self to go to church. Close: Taylor and her father, Tim Smith, who says she is now 'with God' Words from the grave: Taylor's note was found by her parents as they were cleaning up her room after she died. Shown to the left with her mother . Support from religion: A day after Taylor was buried, her father said his devotion to God helped him endure the tragedy . The 12-year-old left behind an older brother along with her heartbroken parents. A day after her father, Tim Smith, buried his daughter he said his devotion helped him endure the tragedy. ‘If it's God's time, it's God's time, and he loved her more than we could ever love her. So much so that he said "come on”,’ Smith told CBS11. Hosanna Fellowship Church is accepting donations for Taylor's memorial fund. WJHL-TV: News: Weather, and Sports for Johnson City, TN .
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Taylor Scout Smith, 12, died of pneumonia Sunday in Tennessee .
Her parents discovered a letter she wrote to .
herself to be opened in 10 years .
She tells herself to 'get that college degree!' and that she wants to be a lawyer and reminds herself to go to church .
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(CNN) -- Jennifer Lawrence gives everything her all -- even lip-syncing. The Oscar winning actress gave a showstopping performance in 2013's "American Hustle," but there's one scene that we're just now getting to fully appreciate. In the David O. Russell dramedy, Lawrence plays Rosalyn Rosenfeld, a '70s housewife with a penchant for belting out the era's hits while scrubbing down her home. In the movie, Lawrence sings along to Wings' "Live and Let Die" with such fervor it left us wishing she had a second career as a cover band frontwoman. But it gets even better: it turns out Lawrence also filmed a scene with Santana's 1969 track "Evil Ways" as the song of choice. The sequence didn't make it into the final film, but the DVD/Blu-ray, released on March 18, includes extended outtakes like this one: . Clearly, we've been approaching housecleaning in the wrong way. It seems it's best done with solo dancing and the most sincere lip-syncing this side of a pop star's concert. Lawrence may have lost out on a best supporting actress Oscar for her "American Hustle" role -- that went to Lupita Nyong'o for "12 Years A Slave" -- but she's won the Internet with this performance.
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Jennifer Lawrence gives a powerful performance in "American Hustle"
In a deleted scene, she was just as good lip-syncing Santana's "Evil Ways"
The sequence is included in the DVD/Blu-ray version of the film .
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Germany boss Joachim Low has warned his players they have gone from hunter to prey since winning the World Cup. Low's men head into Euro 2016 battle with the Republic of Ireland in Gelsenkirchen on Tuesday evening having surrendered a 33-game unbeaten running in qualifiers with a 2-0 defeat in Poland on Saturday, a result which followed a friendly loss to Argentina and a narrow Group D victory over Scotland. But while the manager insists the weight of success is not a burden for his team, he admits the label does serve to inspire whoever they come up against. Joachim Low's German side have posted some average results since their World Cup victory in Brazil . Low said: 'The difficulties we are experiencing at the moment are of a type that we have experienced many times before. But generally speaking, I don't think the position now is anymore difficult than it's always been. 'We used to be the hunter; now we are the prey. We know that teams like Scotland will play with incredible motivation against us - but that was true even after [the World Cup in] 2010 and [Euro] 2012. 'We know the situation, we know how to get by it, but it's no different now than it used to be.' Germany remain overwhelming favourites to top the group and will expect to right the wrongs of Warsaw in comprehensive style against an Ireland team which has collected maximum points from a trip to Georgia and a 7-0 demolition of Gibraltar. Low said: 'If you ask me what is the mood like now, fury is the wrong word, anger is the wrong word. But what you can feel is some kind of determination, that we really badly want these three points against Ireland. 'But there is no incredible disappointment in the team. That would be wrong to say. 'We have seen both the Irish games and have analysed them, and we can expect some sort of copy of Poland. There's nothing new to us. The Irish are good fighters, they have commitment and fantastic fighting spirit, and they know how to defend. 'They are a very well organised team, but at the same time, they have excellent players, like Robbie Keane, who is very experienced and has an eye for goal, Aiden McGeady, James McClean and other players who come from the wings and are very good at dribbling around their opponents. 'Like Poland, they are very fast on the counter, coming from the wings and putting dangerous crosses in. 'They come to Germany with self-confidence and with three teams being able to qualify from this group, they are in with a more than reasonable chance of actually making it to France.' Schalke striker Julian Draxler is set to be named in Low's starting line-up to face the Republic of Ireland . Low insisted he would not make too many changes to his team, although Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Christoph Kramer will be missing through illness with Schalke's Julian Draxler expected to be drafted in on his home ground after himself shaking off a virus. Draxler said: 'We want people to forget the defeat against Poland. As a footballer, you want to win every game. 'The last thing you do is sit down looking at the table and try to pre-conceive, 'We can afford to lose this one, we can afford to lose that one and still make it'. 'If you are a professional player, you want to win everything, so we feel we need to prove to our fans we can still win games. 'We are reigning world champions. Even if we lost a game, we still are title-holders and we are all fully there. We want to show the world that we would like to reach unbeatable status as quickly as possible.' Low has cited Everton winger Aiden McGeady as one of the Republic of Ireland's main attacking threats . Much of the concern in Germany over the current team surrounds the full-backs with Philipp Lahm's international retirement in particular leaving a gaping hole at the back, and youngsters Erik Durm and Antonio Rudiger have found themselves under intense scrutiny. But Low said: 'Philipp Lahm played in the position for many, many years and he showed world class both on the right and on the left. 'It was obvious it would be difficult to replace somebody like him on a one-to-one basis. That is a fantasy.'
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Loss to Poland ended 33-game unbeaten run in qualifiers for Low's men .
Germany face Republic of Ireland in Gelsenkirchen on Tuesday evening .
Borussia Monchengladbach's Christoph Kramer will sit out game .
Schalke's Julian Draxler expected to start on his home ground .
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A former Utah high school teacher accused of having sex with three underage students is behind bars after a judge ordered her held without bail following the alleged revelation she continued relations with one of the students while awaiting trial. Judge John Morris said at a pre-trial hearing Thursday that Brianne Altice will stand trial for the new charges of rape, unlawful sexual activity and dealing harmful material to a minor in addition to the dozen other felonies she already faced. While authorities and many members of the Davis County community are eager to put Altice away for years, the 35-year-old has a cheerleader in one of her alleged victims. Former Utah school teacher Brianne Altice (right), who's accused of having sex with three underage students, appeared in court Thursday for a preliminary hearing concerning allegations she had sex with one of the original victims after . Brianne Altice listens to the testimony of a teenager who gave details about his sexual relationship when he was 17-years old with Altice, his former Davis High School teacher during a preliminary hearing Thursday . 'She doesn't deserve to be here': The alleged victim did not want to testify against the woman he said he once considered his girlfriend, calling the charges against her 'ridiculous' The young man, now 18, testified against his former teacher Thursday despite being 'very unhappy' about doing so, the Salt Lake Tribune reports. 'It's ridiculous,' he said. 'She doesn't deserve to be here.' He told the court he had sex with Altice once prior to October 2013--when she was initially arrested--and then three more times after that December while she was out on bail. At the conclusion of the hearing, Morris ordered Altice jailed without bail, siding with the prosecution's argument that Altice's 'willingness to continue to commit felony sexual offenses while on bail causes great concern that this defendant will continue and be a danger to the community.' Altice will next see the inside of a courtroom on January 22, when she'll appear for a scheduling hearing. Altice taught English at Davis High School before she was fired last February. Altice was first arrested in October 2013 on suspicion of having sex with a student. Altice is now facing more than a dozen felony counts, including rape and sexual abuse, in two different cases. She has pleaded not guilty to the older charges . Led away: A judge ordered Altice jailed without bail Thursday after hearing testimony that she had sex with a student while out on bail . In August of 2014, a second student came forward accusing Altice of carrying on a physical relationship with him as well. Now, the former educator who lost her job and saw her marriage break apart in the aftermath of the scandal faces felony counts stemming from her alleged encounters with three minors. The charges against Altice include first-degree rape, first-degree forcible sodomy and second-degree forcible sexual abuse. Altice’s attorney, Edward Brass, has said in court his client denies any romantic involvement with the three students. Mounting charges: In this Jan. 3, 2014, file photo, Davis High School English teacher Brianne Altice stands before the judge during her first court hearing in Farmington, Utah . In deep: Brianne Altice, 35, was arrested again last week on four new sex abuse charges and released from jail after posting $10,000 bail, court documents say . ‘It is her defense that they did not happen at all,’ Brass wrote in a motion. ‘That she never engaged in any inappropriate contact with either of her students ...’ Prosecutors said the teacher acknowledged to investigators that she had engaged in sex with the 16-year-old boy on two occasions. The teen was allegedly able to accurately describe the layout of Altice's home to detectives as well as tattoos on her body. But Brass has asked the judge to not allow those statements at her trial, arguing that she was intimidated by the eight to 10 male officers who came to her home last October to interview her about the allegations. Brass argued that the officers would not let her care for children, call an attorney or use the restroom for nearly four hours as they questioned her. Altice faces 10 charges in the earlier case, which involves the 17-year-old and two other students . 'Her statements were coerced and involuntary and were taken in violation of her so-called Miranda rights,' Brass wrote in court papers. 'The evidence she provided was the product of that tainted statement.' In September, one of the teenage boys, now 18, offered graphic details during his testimony about how he went from being Altice's student to allegedly having sex with her in his Farmington home. The teen testified that he was 17-years-old when he became involved with Altice between April and June of 2013, according to The Salt Lake Tribune. He said it began with kissing between class periods and eventually graduated to sexual intercourse. When asked to describe his relationship with Brianne Altice, the teenage boy said she was his 'teacher with benefits.' Stressful: Altice’s attorney, Edward Brass, has said in court his client denies any romantic involvement with the three students .
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Utah teacher Brianne Altice, 35, was already charged with having sex with three teens when she was arrested again last week .
Altice, of South Weber, was charged with having sex with one of the teens while free on bail in December and will stand trial for those new charges .
The victim with whom she allegedly broke her terms of pre-trial release begrudgingly testified against her Thursday and called charged 'ridiculous'
Altice was released on $10K bail after her arrest last week but was led from the court in cuffs Thursday and ordered held without bail .
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Title: Groundbreaking Discovery in Quantum Computing: Researchers Successfully Teleport Information Between Atoms
In a remarkable leap forward for quantum computing, scientists at the University of Science and Technology have successfully teleported information between two individual atoms for the first time. This pioneering achievement paves the way for a new era of ultra-secure communication and faster computational processes.
The team, led by Dr. Jane Doe, utilized a process called quantum entanglement to transfer the state of an atom's spin from one location to another instantaneously. The experiment involved two strontium atoms cooled to near absolute zero temperatures, each containing electrons with specific spins. By manipulating these spins and observing their changes, the researchers were able to confirm the successful teleportation of information.
"This experiment marks a significant milestone in our quest to build practical quantum computers," said Dr. Doe. "By harnessing the power of quantum entanglement, we can perform calculations exponentially faster than classical computers, opening up countless possibilities for breakthroughs in areas such as cryptography, drug discovery, and artificial intelligence."
The researchers plan to continue their work on this groundbreaking technology, aiming to scale up the number of atoms involved in the experiments and ultimately develop practical applications for quantum teleportation. As our understanding of quantum mechanics deepens, we can expect more exciting advancements in the field of quantum computing in the near future.
Stay tuned for updates on this transformative discovery that could reshape the way we communicate and process information!
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Researchers at the University of Science and Technology have successfully teleported information between two individual atoms for the first time, using a process called quantum entanglement. This achievement, led by Dr. Jane Doe, paves the way for ultra-secure communication and faster computational processes in quantum computing. The team utilized strontium atoms cooled to near absolute zero temperatures with specific electron spins. They manipulated these spins and observed changes to confirm the successful teleportation of information. This experiment is a significant step towards building practical quantum computers, as it allows for exponentially faster calculations than classical computers in areas like cryptography, drug discovery, and artificial intelligence. The team plans to further develop this technology by scaling up the number of atoms involved and creating practical applications for quantum teleportation. Future advancements in quantum mechanics are expected in the field of quantum computing.
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Xabi Alonso believes Bayern Munich team-mate Manuel Neuer deserves to win the 2014 Ballon d'Or after playing a major role in Germany's World Cup triumph. Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are favourites to win the Ballon d'Or, however Alonso has made a case for the German stopper to break the duo's six-year dominance of winning the award. 'If Manuel won it, it'd be totally deserved,' Alonso told Sport Bild. Xabi Alonso believes Bayern Munich team-mate Manuel Neuer should win the 2014 Ballon d'Or . Alonso has backed his team-mate to beat the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to the award . 'Neuer is by far the best keeper I've played with and is also outstanding outfield.' Neuer recently suggested he was not fashionable enough to win the award ahead of Ronaldo as he doesn't have a 'red-carpet lifestyle' or have a modelling career. The 28-year-old custodian is joined on the 23-man shortlist by fellow 2014 World Cup winners Toni Kroos, Thomas Muller, Mario Gotze, Philipp Lahm and Bastian Schweinsteiger. Gareth Bale (Wales), Karim Benzema (France), Diego Costa (Spain), Thibaut Courtois (Belgium), Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal), Angel Di Maria (Argentina), Mario Gotze (Germany), Eden Hazard (Belgium), Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Sweden), Andres Iniesta (Spain), Toni Kroos (Germany), Philipp Lahm (Germany), Javier Mascherano (Argentina), Lionel Messi (Argentina), Thomas Muller (Germany), Manuel Neuer (Germany), Neymar (Brazil), Paul Pogba (France), Sergio Ramos (Spain), Arjen Robben (Holland), James Rodriguez (Colombia), Bastian Schweinsteiger (Germany), Yaya Toure (Ivory Coast). Neuer does not believe he can the award as he is not as fashionable as Real Madrid star Ronaldo .
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Bayern Munich's Xabi Alonso has backed Manuel Neuer to win Ballon d'Or .
World Cup winner Neuer is among six Germans on 23-man shortlist .
Neuer believes he cannot compete with Cristiano Ronaldo for Ballon d'Or because he doesn't have a 'red-carpet' lifestyle .
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(CNN) -- Sand and cities don't naturally go together, but they're matched to perfection at lidos, pop-up beaches and metro lakesides from Paris to Prague, via sandy Vienna. Unless otherwise indicated, these urban beaches are free and open year round. Strandbad Wannsee, Berlin . Best for: Sun-worshippers . A 20-minute train ride from central Berlin, on the banks of the Wannsee Lake, gets you to the largest inland lido (urban public swimming spot) in Europe -- the swimming and sunbathing areas together cover around 35 hectares. Berliners have been heading here with their beach towels since 1907 to kick back on the 1,275-meter stretch of sand, shipped in from the Baltic Sea. There's beach volleyball and giant chess games, a water slide into the lake and a nudist area. Strandbad Wannsee; open until September 29, 2013; admission €4.50 adults, €2.80 children. Lido di Venezia, Venice, Italy . Best for: Celeb spotting . Venice has its own version of Palm Beach in the form of the Lido (after which many, generally less impressive European swimming areas are named), an 11-kilometer-long sandbar, reached by ferry, that separates the Venetian Lagoon from the Adriatic Sea. One of the loveliest areas is the WWF-protected sandy dunes at Alberoni. Rare bee-eater birds are often seen here. Visit the Lido during August and you may spot George Clooney or Helen Mirren -- big Hollywood names come for the Venice Film Festival (August 28 to September 7, 2013), held at the grand Palazzo del Cinema. For more about Venice and the Lido de Venezia, visit Turismo Venezia. Barceloneta, Barcelona, Spain . Best for: Beach architecture . At Barceloneta, the city's former fisherman's quarter, you'll find Barcelona's largest, most centrally located and most popular beach. At a mere hint of sunshine, locals beeline for the three-kilometer-long ribbon of sand. Arrive early if you want a decent spot. The beach is lined with strange architectural wonders, including a giant golden fish sculpture by celebrated American architect Frank Gehry, and a three-story-tall leaning tower of steel boxes, the work of German sculptor Rebecca Horn. For more about Barcelona and Barceloneta beach visit Barcelona Turisme. Blijburg aan Zee, Amsterdam . Best for: Night owls . Amsterdammers come to this wide stretch of sand when they want to feel the sand beneath their feet, but don't want to schlep all the way to the coast. The beach is on IJburg, a collection of artificial islands east of the city center. It has a laid-back bohemian vibe and a beach shack serving ice cream. After dark the beach comes alive with campfires, DJs and a beach-party atmosphere that continues into the morning hours. Find more on Amsterdam and Blijburg aan Zee at the official Amsterdam tourism website. Details of evening and other events on the beach here (Dutch-language site only). Sand in the City, Vienna . Best for: Almost any kind of beach activity you can imagine . The Danube River has a number of beaches along its length, but the coolest one is located in the grounds of the Vienna Ice Skating Club: the Sand in the City beach club. One sandy theme succeeds another at the club. The Sport Beach has beach volleyball, the games lit up at night with floodlights. At Gastro Beach, stands serve strawberry punch, Italian ice cream and other refreshments. Every Sunday the beach is transformed into an open-air salsa party with international DJs. Sand in the City; open until September 7, 2013 . Bruxelles les Bains, Brussels . Best for: Pretending you're at a resort when you're in the city . Every summer, 3,000 tons of sand from the North Sea are poured along the banks of the Brussels Canal. The result is more like a resort than a beach, with a children's park and activities galore, from boules to Ultimate Frisbee. Weekly events include beach rugby tournaments, a huge video games tent, dance lessons and free concerts held on the "sand stage." Cocktail bars pepper the beach -- sundowners are hard to avoid. Bruxelles les Bains; open until August 11, 2013 . Amager Beach Park, Copenhagen, Denmark . Best for: Swimming laps . Since 1934, whenever locals have needed beach time, they've crossed one of two bridges to this island just off the city's coastline. There are almost three miles of beaches here; the northern end is wild, with winding paths and sand dunes -- people come for picnics and play. At the southern end is the new "city beach," with a broad promenade and boat marina. You can launch yourself off the jetty for a swim, or get your heart rate up in the kilometer-long swimming lane. Amager Beach Park (Danish-language site only) Paris Plages, Paris . Best for: Parisian chic . What began in 2002 as a single, short beach on the Right Bank of the Seine has turned into one of the biggest pop-up beaches in Europe. More than 2,000 tons of sand are loaded onto various Paris waterside locations: this year it's across from the Georges Pompidou exhibition center and at the Bassin de la Villette artificial lake. Visitors can sit on a deck chair under a palm tree, borrow books free of charge, join in tai chi and ballroom dance classes or ride a new 150-meter-long zip line across the Bassin de la Villette. Oddly enough, swimming in the Seine is forbidden -- there are row boats and kayaks for rent instead. Paris Plages, open until August 2013 . Žluté Lázně, Prague . Best for: Sporty types . On the banks of the River Vltava, this venerable city beach turns 103 this summer. The expanse of imported sand provides plenty of spots for horizontal relaxation. Games include beach volleyball, slack-lining, petanque, netball and giant chess. There are several bars and restaurants, a children's play area and -- this being a common requirement for European urban beach-goers -- a "no-clothes" beach. Evening beach parties feature DJs and young, attractive crowds. Žluté Lázně; 80Kc ($4) adults, 40Kc children . Guincho, Lisbon . Best for: Urban surfing . After a morning in Lisbon's medieval Alfama quarter, its cathedrals and cubbyhole cafes, a trip to this long beach below the cliffs near Cascais, a 20-minute bus ride from Lisbon proper, makes a great change of scene. Many consider Guincho the most beautiful beach around Lisbon, but whether you come for the scenery or not, you're almost guaranteed a decent swell. The beach is renowned for its strong waves and chill surfing vibe -- whatever day of the week you can expect plenty of kite- and windsurfers in the water. Surf rental shops and schools are nearby, but the beach is also fine for bodysurfing. For more about Lisbon visit the official Lisbon tourism website.
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European city beach locations may surprise you -- Vienna for a swim, anyone?
Original Lido in Venice, and much-imitated Paris Plages Seine-side beaches, are highlights .
Amsterdam's urban beach is predictably laid back, with a summer-long party .
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The father of 15-year-old Jared Padgett does not understand what compelled his son to open fire at his Oregon school. Padgett killed one student this week at Reynolds High School in Troutdale, about 12 miles east of Portland. He also injured a teacher, before turning the gun on himself. "I, Michael Padgett and my ex-wife, Kristina, are grieved in our hearts for the tragic event that involved our beloved son Jared at Reynolds High School. We are finding it very difficult to put into words our state of mind and emotions," the father wrote in a letter he gave to CNN affiliate KPTV. He offered condolences to the family of the student his son killed, 14-year-old Emilio Hoffman, and apologized to the teacher. Authorities have said there is no known link between Padgett and his victims. They have declined to comment on a possible motive. "We are at a loss as to how and why this tragedy unfolded. Our family does not condone and has never promoted violence or hatred toward anyone," Padgett's father wrote. "The values that we have taught our children are love in Jesus Christ, compassion, forgiveness, and patience. These were all natural attributes we observed within Jared daily. "Knowing that these are the values that we have taught our children, we are horrified and distraught by the actions perpetrated by our son," he said.
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Jared Padgett killed one student and injured a teacher .
He died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound .
"We are horrified and distraught," writes his father .
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(CNN) -- In a show of adoration, a small group of Jenni Rivera's fans waited outside Long Beach Airport, as the plane carrying the music star's remains landed late Thursday. They greeted members of her family with applause and condolences as they exited the airport. Another group of fans gathered at an impromptu altar in front of Rivera's mother's home in Lakewood. A hearse ferried Rivera's body through dark streets, escorted by at least three police cruisers, to All Souls Mortuary, according to CNN affiliate KCAL. The singer was killed Sunday when the plane she was aboard plummeted from 28,000 feet, Mexico's transportation secretary said. The private jet crashed in a mountainous area 9,000 feet above sea level. The remains of Rivera's publicist and the plane's co-pilot have also been identified, said Jorge Domene, a spokesman for Mexico's Nuevo Leon state. The cause of the crash is under investigation. Two lawsuits against the company that owns the jet accuse the firm of lying about its links to a businessman convicted of falsifying maintenance records. Rivera had left a letter for her loved ones and gave instructions to her sister Rosie regarding the circumstances under which it should be read, her brother Pedro Jr. told CNN en Español on Wednesday. He said the letter stipulated that she did not want to be cremated, as the family had originally planned to do, and that the authorities should hand over her remains to her siblings. "Jenni always had advisers who helped her to work and to make things right," he said. "She prepared a letter about a month, month and a half ago." He added that funeral plans had not been finalized but that a memorial would probably be held in Mexico. The accident report will not be ready for nine months to a year, the secretary of communications and transportation said. Rivera, 43, is mourned by millions of fans. She and six others were thought to be aboard the plane, which lost contact with air traffic controllers soon after takeoff. Known as "La Diva de la Banda" or the Diva of Banda Music, Rivera was a musical powerhouse with her Spanish-language performances of regional Mexican corridos, or ballads. For fans, the nickname captured her powerful voice and personal strength. In recent years, she had been working to break into the English-language U.S. market and was reportedly on the verge of a crossover with a sitcom inspired by the success of "I Love Jenni," a Spanish-language reality TV show on Telemundo's mun2 network. Rivera sold 15 million records, according to Billboard, and had recently won two Billboard Music Awards, including favorite Mexican music female artist. In October, People en Español added her to its list of the 25 most powerful women. CNN's Nelson Quinones contributed to this report .
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NEW: Rivera's remains were repatriated to the United States .
The remains of Rivera's publicist and the plane's co-pilot also were identified .
A memorial will likely be held in Mexico, but plans are not yet final .
Rivera's letter says she does not want to be cremated .
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The Conservatives will today pledge to end six-figure pay-offs in the public sector if they win the general election. Tory sources said the party’s manifesto will promise the swift introduction of a new ‘public sector redundancy pay cap’ to end the culture of obscene ‘golden goodbyes’ to fat cats employed by the State. In future, pay-offs will be limited to a maximum of £95,000 in all but exceptional cases. The BBC's former deputy boss, Mark Byford (left), received £949,000 in 2011. Katherine Kerswell (right) received a £420,000 payment in 2012 after just 20 months in charge of Kent County Council . Senior managers will also have to hand back a portion of their pay-off if they take another job in the public sector within 12 months. The new law will cover the entire public sector, including the civil service, the NHS, local government and the BBC – where some pay-offs have approached £1million. The move will enrage civil service unions, particularly as Tory sources said the cap will be applied to people in existing jobs, not just those signing new contracts. It follows public outrage over a string of gigantic payments to senior officials, many of whom went on to take other jobs elsewhere in the public sector shortly afterwards – a phenomenon known as the ‘revolving door’. Former BBC director-general George Entwistle received a £450,000 pay-off in 2012 after just 54 days in the job. The Corporation’s former deputy director-general, Mark Byford, received £949,000 in 2011. Other big winners included NHS managers Chris Reed and Karen Straughair, who received pay-offs totalling almost £1million in 2013. The married couple went on to earn £120,000 for four months’ hospital work shortly afterwards. Former BBC director-general George Entwistle (pictured) received a £450,000 pay-off in 2012 after just 54 days in the job . Council chiefs have also cashed in under the existing system. Katherine Kerswell received a £420,000 payment in 2012 after just 20 months in charge of Kent County Council. The following year, she was handed a £140,000-a-year job by the Cabinet Office. Michael Lockwood was given a £168,000 pay-off when his role as chief executive of Harrow Council was axed in February last year, only to be re-hired in November. Treasury Minister Priti Patel said last night that the time had come to end the culture of huge public sector pay-offs. She said: ‘It’s not right that hard-working taxpayers, many on low salaries, have to fund huge payouts when well-paid people get made redundant. ‘So we’re going to do something that’s long overdue and that will bring some fairness back to the system.’ Jonathan Isaby, chief executive of the TaxPayers’ Alliance, said: ‘Taxpayers will warmly welcome this announcement. ‘Over the last few years, these six-figure golden goodbyes have cost hard-pressed taxpayers hundreds of millions of pounds.’ The move has the potential to slash the cost of future public sector reorganisations. Tory sources say the cap would have saved £125million in 2011/12 alone. Only workers earning less than £27,000 will be exempt from the cap, in order to protect a small number of long-serving public sector employees on modest incomes. The plans will also extend the ability of public sector organisations to claw back payments from people who immediately take a job elsewhere. The Government has already changed the law to require some money to be repaid if a public servant receiving a pay-off of more than £100,000 takes a job in the same sector within 12 months. But the Tories now plan to remove the £100,000 threshold so this applies to all pay-offs.
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Manifesto promises introduction of new ‘public sector redundancy pay cap’
Tory sources say party wants to end culture of obscene 'golden goodbyes'
Under plans, pay-offs will be limited to £95,000 in all but exceptional cases .
Senior managers will have to hand back some of their pay-off if they take another public sector job within a year .
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(CNN) -- North Korea is one of the world's most mysterious and secretive states, regarded as a political pariah and at bitter loggerheads with its neighbor South Korea. Few people are allowed past its tightly-sealed borders but footballer Ryang Yong-Gi, who was born and raised in Japan by a loyally North Korean family, is in a privileged position when it comes to entering and exiting. The 31-year-old is captain of top Japanese club Vegalta Sendai, and also plays for the national side of North Korea -- which in the past has faced allegations of mistreatment of its sports teams after major events. "My number one hope is for North and South Korea to become united," he told CNN's Human to Hero series. "I think it will contribute to the development of the country in many ways. I think it will open up new possibilities beyond soccer and sports." A hero to football fans in both Japan and North Korea, Ryang symbolizes the unique power of sport to break down boundaries despite deep-seated differences. He does not talk about politics with his North Korean teammates -- "They ask me about cars or soccer magazines I have with me" -- but his own views have been shaped by his upbringing, in which he had to gain acceptance in two very different societies. The Korean community in Japan has an uneasy relationship, at best, with the indigenous population, amid a perpetual state of mistrust on both sides. Ongoing tensions over disputed territory -- a small group of islands situated between Japan and the Korean peninsula -- has ratcheted up the political rhetoric and fueled prejudices. But not only has Ryang won respect for his footballing feats, helping his team from J-League division two also-rans to top-flight championship contenders, he has also achieved cult status, regardless of his background. "I think 90% of the Vegalta's supporters don't care about whether he is North Korean or Japanese," local businessman Shuichi Kanno, a loyal club fan, told CNN. Legendary player . "We feel he loves the team. He is a legend and his story should be remembered, even after he retires," he added. Ryang, who has been with the club since 2004, admitted he was initially apprehensive about the reaction of fans. "I wondered if people would cheer me, a North Korean, but once I was on the team and started playing, I felt l like I was being supported a lot," he said. "The fans love this team, their local team, and they support me as a part of the team, maybe even more so than to other members." Watch: Chasing North Korea's football team . Born in 1982, Ryang grew up in the city of Osaka with Korean parents, who are second generation immigrants to Japan. Japan occupied the Korean peninsula from 1905 to 1945. Well over half a million Koreans who came to Japan during that troubled period stayed after World War II ended, including Ryang's grandfather. The subsequent Korean War led to two bitterly divided states in the North and South, and Korean immigrants left in Japan also split into separate communities. Strict loyalty . One of the consequences was special North Korean schools, where the DPRK's flag could be seen flying in the playground, with portraits of leaders such as Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il on the classroom walls. Strict loyalty to that regime is engendered, and that is the education that Ryang received up until high school when, thanks to his sporting and academic achievements, he entered the mainstream Japanese university system. But the limited range of sporting opportunities in his early schooling also played an inadvertent role in his subsequent professional career. "My father introduced me to football when I was two or three years old," he recalled. "Then I went to North Korean schools where only football was available, and myself and other students would play from morning to night -- so in that sense, I think I was blessed." Ryang was also blessed with a formidable talent and, on leaving education in 2003 found his place in the Vegalta Sendai squad, then playing in the J-League second division. It was not long before international recognition arrived -- though not for Japan ("I have never thought about it") but through his upbringing and family ties, for North Korea. Representing his country in Macao, Ryang scored in a 2-0 win over South Korea in the semifinals of the East Asia Games. Winning acceptance . He admits his enthusiasm to impress, to win acceptance as an "outsider" got the better of him as he charged around the pitch in his midfield role. "I played in a reckless manner. I felt the need to impress so they would invite me again to play in the national team." Ryang did impress enough to secure further call-ups, one of a small cadre of Japan-based players with a similar background, who represent North Korea. He was top scorer as North Korea won the 2010 AFC Asian Challenge Cup, and also took part in a successful qualification campaign for that year's 2010 World Cup finals. But it is in club football in the highly competitive J-League where he has made the biggest impression, with Vegalta emerging as challengers for the first division title in recent seasons. Ryang has been an ever present and key member of the side, but it was the shattering events of March 11, 2011 -- when an earthquake and tsunami hit Japan -- which firmly cemented him as a fan favorite. Sendai was near the epicenter of the quake and Ryang was out driving when it hit. "I thought my tires had gone flat or I had driven over the curb, but the shaking continued and I saw the windows of shops shaking too," he recalled. "I knew it was a bad one and rushed home to see my wife." Earthquake disaster . Ryang and his heavily pregnant wife spent the night sleeping in their car, fearful of further damage to buildings in an urban landscape that suffered severe wreckage. In the aftermath of the disaster, Ryang and his teammates made frequent visits to affected areas to lend support. The performances of the team also boosted morale, eventually finishing fourth in the J-League with Ryang providing inspiring captaincy, . Kanno, a restaurant owner in the coastal town of Kesennuma which was heavily hit by the tsunami, said Ryang and his teammates made all the difference in those terrible times for the area. "During the tsunami year, Vegalta and his play gave us an energy, whether they won or lost," Kanno said. "We are so grateful that he led the team to fourth in the league that year. "We also would like to thank him that he has stayed with our team despite getting good offers from other teams (in the J-League)." Ryang's international career has involved intermittent trips to Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, where he joins up with the domestic based players. It is seen as one of the most secretive setups in world soccer, due to the DPRK government's isolationist policies. Affluent lifestyle . However, aside from their interest in the trappings of the affluent lifestyle in Japan, Ryang said his teammates were well acquainted with the action from major football leagues such as the English Premier League and Spain's La Liga. "Their in-depth knowledge of famous players demonstrates to me that they do watch a lot of soccer on television," he revealed. So when North Korea qualified for the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa, drawn to play mighty Brazil in the first group match, it's safe to say they would have known all about Kaka and Robinho and their teammates. Ryang missed out on selection for the tournament, though he trained with the squad as cover. Despite his personal disappointment, he describes North Korea's narrow 2-1 defeat by the five-time world champion Brazil team as his "most memorable match, a moving experience." That match was a high point -- but North Korea's World Cup ended in embarrassment, losing 7-0 to Portugal and then 3-0 to the Ivory Coast. The squad and head coach Kim Jong Hun were reportedly publicly humiliated by government officials on their return home, though in August 2010 soccer's world governing body halted its investigation into the claims after failing to find enough evidence. In a statement on its official website, FIFA described the allegations as "baseless." Role models . Ryang had starred in North Korea's lifting of the AFC Asian Challenge Cup in the World Cup year, contributing goals from midfield ("every goal felt amazing") and also helped the team retain the trophy last year. 2012 was also to prove his most successful season at club level, with Vegalta Sendai finishing second in the league, beaten to the title by Sanfrecce Hiroshima in the closing stages of the season. Despite being in the autumn of his career, Ryang has entertained no thoughts of retiring and retains a real love for his sport. "Soccer is part of my life, and it's also my job and I never get tired of it," he said. His role models are players such as Andres Iniesta of Barcelona and former Serbian great Dragan Stojkovic -- both attacking midfielders in his mold. Ryang admits that Stojkovic, who is now manager of J-League side Nagoya Grampus, was his hero from boyhood days: "I've always admired him." Like Stojkovic, Ryang has assumed a captaincy role with his club and takes his responsibilities incredibly seriously. "I need to have a strong presence in the team, and I also need to be trusted by other players," is his philosophy on leadership. "I make sure that I run the most, try to stay in the game all the time and make a big effort to change the outcome." He might be a dogged hard worker on the pitch, but off it he does indulge in a passion he shares with many football stars. "I love cars. I do not have any favorite model, but when I am allowed to test drive one, I love it instantly and end up buying it," he says. "As I am not a player blessed with speed, I tend to drive a fast car. Everyone tells me I drive fast and rough." CNN's Chie Kobayashi contributed to this article.
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Ryang Yong-Gi is a Japan-born footballer who represents North Korea .
The 31-year-old plays for J-League side Vegalta Sendai .
He led the team to second place in standings last season .
He also aided relief efforts after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan .
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LAGUNA DE BAY, Philippines (CNN) -- Water is a lifeline for the farmers and fishermen who live along Laguna de Bay, the largest lake in the Philippines. The rich ecosystem also serves as a reservoir to catch floodwaters to save Manila, on its western shore, from drowning. People use a canoe to cross floodwaters in Manila's Laguna de Bay neighborhood. But water became the Philippines' biggest enemy last week as Typhoon Parma dumped as much as 36 inches of rain in some parts of this nation of islands, compounding misery in areas already flooded by earlier storm Ketsana. Fears of disease are rising. So are the tempers of residents, who blame the government for doing too little too late. Parma made landfall Saturday in Cagayan Province in the northern Philippines, with maximum sustained winds measured at approximately 148 kph (92 mph). The Philippines National Disaster Coordinating Council reported that the storm affected more than 338,000 people, displaced 85,000 and killed at least 16. Tuesday morning, Parma, known locally as Pepeng, was still hovering off the northwestern coast of the Philippines with wind gusts up to 135 kph (84 mph). Its predecessor, Ketsana, affected more than 3.9 million people, displaced more than 335,000 (many of whom remain in shelters) and left 295 dead. It swallowed homes and buses, and dumped more rain on Manila than it has seen in 40 years, leaving 80 percent of the bustling capital submerged. The water -- rancid, stagnant, infested -- has now been standing for 10 days. Read about the fate of a farming community in Cagayan . As many as 2 million homes are partly submerged in metropolitan Manila, according to the government. People wade through the murky stuff in flip-flops or bare feet. They use tractors, boats and makeshift barges to navigate the main thoroughfare. Wooden furniture stands soaked, on the verge of rotting. Valuables like stereo systems sit atop chairs and tables, and families have been sleeping on elevated beds. Garbage is clogging the city's aged drainage and sewage systems. Watch Manila residents battle floodwaters » . Manila generates 6,700 tons of trash a day, estimates the Asian Development Bank. Much of it is dumped on the streets or illegally into waterways, all of it under water now. Children play -- some with water guns -- in it, as though it were the neighborhood swimming pool. Fears of water-borne disease have permeated the area. "All the children have diarrhea," said resident Jojo Gadista, who, like everyone else, has floodwater inside his house. "I don't know how to fix the situation." Parma is forecast to remain almost stationary over the next 24 hours. That means more rain will surely fall in the northern Philippines. Scattered storms are forecast for Manila. The government offered a grim prognostication. Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, who is in charge of relief operations, said the water may not fully recede until Christmas. "That is why we have to work to try and dredge things and try to clean up," he said. But many poor families are desperate to get their lives back. Hundreds of people waited at a bridge for government boats. Some were there all night. They were promised food at 10 in the morning. At 4 p.m., they were still waiting. They stretched their arms when a private relief truck stopped to hand out to each person two packages of noodles, a bottle of drinking water, a canned good, rice and coffee -- donations from wealthy Filipinos. Teodoro said many people in cities and towns around Laguna de Bay opted not to evacuate; that it was a challenge to ensure their safety. "They really will not leave their most valuable worldly possessions," he said. When you are poor, it is hard to leave the only thing you have, Gadista said. "This is where our livelihood is. We can't leave this place." This place, where normally, water is a godsend. CNN's Eunice Yoon and Pamela Boykoff contributed to this story.
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Typhoon Parma leaves Philippines capital Manila partly submerged .
Disease now a threat from stagnant standing water .
Parma remains a threat -- continuing to dump rain on the city .
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(CNN) -- As many as 225,000 children in Haiti live and work as unpaid domestic servants, the first study to closely examine the issue concluded. The existence of these arrangements are not new, but the scope is larger than previously thought, a new study by the Pan American Development Foundation found. The foundation conducted the largest field survey of human rights violations in Haiti. Known as restaveks, these extremely poor children are sent by their families to other homes. "In principle, parental placement of a restavek child involves turning over child-rearing responsibility to another household in exchange for the child's unpaid domestic service," the study says. The majority, two-thirds, of restaveks are female, and all are prone to abuse and rape by their host families, the study says. The movement of the children is from poor homes to less poor homes, sometimes within the same family. In addition to boarding, families often send their children to become restaveks because of schooling opportunities in their new homes. To determine how widespread this practice is, the foundation conducted 1,458 door-to-door surveys in some of the more troubled neighborhoods in Haiti, the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere. According to the U.N. Office for the Special Envoy for Haiti, unemployment reaches 70 percent nationally and 78 percent of Haitians live on less than $2 a day. Given the dire economic condition, child trafficking and organized violence has been a problem in Haiti. The study's aim was to answer the question: "What is the scale of the victimization?" What researchers found was that 22 percent of children surveyed were living away from home, and that 30 percent of households had restavek children. Using census projections for 2010, the study extrapolated that as many as 225,000 children in Haiti's urban areas could be living as restaveks. The recruitment of such children is "intimately linked" with poverty, said the study, which recommended that the government and foreign aid be used in poverty alleviation programs and more widely available education services, especially in rural areas. The placement of restavek children has traditionally been a movement from rural Haiti to urban areas. Another key find to the study is that they are increasingly coming from other urban areas, the study found. In many cases, children are placed in homes of relatives, but kinship ties did not guarantee better treatment, according to the study.
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Study: As many as 225,000 children in Haiti live and work as unpaid domestic servants .
Known as restaveks, these poor children are sent by their families to other homes .
Child-rearing given to another household in exchange for the child's unpaid domestic service .
The majority of restaveks are female and are prone to abuse and rape by their host families .
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(EW.com) -- "Sure, NBC can launch a reality show," competitors pointed out last week after "The Voice" debuted huge, "but then what happens? Remember 'The Marriage Ref,' 'The Singing Bee,' 'Grease: You're the One That I Want?' All premiered big, but then fell off a cliff... " Well, last night's second episode of "The Voice" not only didn't tumble, it climbed up the mountain a little higher. "The Voice" was seen by 12.4 million viewers and had a 5.6 preliminary rating among adults 18-49. That's up 10 percent from last week's premiere, which broke NBC records. Here's how unusual this is: "The Voice" is the only new show this season on a major broadcast network whose ratings rose for its second episode. The big question now is whether "The Voice" will continue its winning streak when the coaches ditch the swivel chairs and start the "battle rounds" next week. (See exclusive pics of the coaches and their new teams here). "Biggest Loser" (7.4 million, 2.6) opened the night. As the runner-up, CBS had "NCIS" (17.3 million, 3.5) glaring at spin-off "NCIS: LA" (14 million, 2.9). Both were down about 10 percent, followed by "The Good Wife" (12.2 million, 2.4), raising a nice 20 percent. On third-place Fox, "Glee" (8.6 million, 3.6) rose 6 percent from last week's season low, followed by "Raising Hope" (4.9 million, 1.9) and "Traffic Light" (3.0 million, 1.2). Then there was ABC with "Dancing With the Stars" results (15.6 million, 2.9), getting crushed by "The Voice" in the demo, down 19 percent. At 10 p.m., "Body of Proof" (10.4 million, 2.0) slipped 9 percent. The CW had "One Tree Hill" (1.2 million, 0.6) falling to a series low, and "Hellcats" (1 million, 0.4) tying its low. Both shows, along with "Nikita," are awaiting word whether they will be renewed, but The CW is expected to bring at least two of them back. At this point "Hellcats" is the most likely to be left without a chair. See the original article on EW.com . CLICK HERE to Try 2 RISK FREE issues of Entertainment Weekly . © 2010 Entertainment Weekly and Time Inc. All rights reserved.
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"The Voice" seen by 12.4 million viewers -- that's up 10 percent from last week .
"The Voice" is only show on major network whose ratings rose for second episode .
Big question now is whether "The Voice" will continue its winning streak .
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The escalating conflict in Ukraine "essentially puts the nation on the brink of civil war," Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday. His assessment came during a telephone conversation with his German counterpart, according to the Kremlin, the same day Ukraine's military launched its first, formal military action against pro-Russian militants with troops retaking an airport in the eastern Donetsk region after a reported clash with gunmen. The military action came a day after a Ukrainian ultimatum expired for protesters to lay down their arms, a move that appeared to signal an escalation in the crisis that has sparked a diplomatic row between Ukraine, its Western allies and Russia. With pro-Russian militants seizing government and police buildings in as many as 10 towns and cities in eastern Ukraine, acting President Oleksandr Turchynov told Parliament "an anti-terrorist operation" was under way in the region. The aim of the military operation is to "stop attempts to tear Ukraine to pieces," he told lawmakers. Witnesses reported hearing gunfire and aircraft that appeared to be coming from the airfield in Kramatorsk, which Turchynov's office said was under the control of Ukrainain special forces late Tuesday. There were conflicting reports about casualties, with Russian state-run media citing varying casualty claims supplied by militants. According to the reports, there were either two injured or four killed, claims that CNN cannot independently verify. Brink of civil war? Putin's comments followed similar ones hours earlier from Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev warned Ukraine was on a violent path. "Ukraine is on the brink of civil war. It is scary. And I hope that everyone who is responsible for making decisions at the moment -- I mean both, the current Ukrainian authorities, who we can't consider legitimate, but these are the authorities who came to power as result of a coup -- has brains to avoid driving the country to such shocks," he said at a news conference Tuesday in Moscow. The pro-Russian uprising follows Russia's annexation last month of Ukraine's Crimea region, a move that emboldened other pro-Russian Ukrainians in the country's east to rise up. Russia has said it reserves the right to intervene to protect the rights of ethnic Russians in eastern Ukraine. During the conversation with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Putin also raised concerns about what he called an "anti-constitutional course" taken by Ukrainian authorities in Kiev to suppress protests. Despite what Merkel's office described as "different assessments of the events on the ground in Ukraine," the focus of the conversation was on preparations for a meeting in Geneva among the foreign ministers of Russia, Ukraine, the United States and the European Union to find a way to reduce tensions in the region. In a sign of the divisions roiling the country, YouTube footage posted online appeared to show two openly pro-Russian presidential candidates who have demonstrated support for separatists being antagonized by crowds in separate incidents in Kiev on Monday night. In one video, Mikhail Dobkin, a presidential candidate for the Party of Regions, the party of ousted President Viktor Yanukovych, had flour and green liquid thrown at him as he addressed crowds. Another clip showed Oleg Tsarov, an independent candidate who was expelled from the Party of Regions, speaking to people without a shirt as he apparently sought to show the bruising he'd received from an aggressive crowd. In the third video, Tsarov tries to leave a TV station, where crowds shout "Shame! Shame! Shame!" His supporters and protesters end up in a brief scuffle. CNN has not been able independently to verify the amateur video clips. NATO, EU are 'deeply concerned' The escalating tensions in the region -- along with reports of violence -- have raised concerns among European Union defense ministers and NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen, who met Tuesday in Luxembourg. As he arrived for the talks, Rasmussen told reporters he was "deeply concerned" by the latest developments in Ukraine. "I call on Russia to de-escalate the crisis, to pull back its troops from Ukraine's borders, to stop destabilizing the situation in Ukraine and make clear that it doesn't support the violent actions of pro-Russian separatists," he said. "Russia should stop being part of the problem and start being part of the solution." He said NATO and the EU are not discussing military options and that they support a diplomatic and political solution to the crisis. "However, we are focused militarily on strengthening defense of our allies. That's our core task," he said. Ukraine deployed a National Guard battalion of 350 troops to the Donetsk region from Kiev on Tuesday morning, said Evgen Rojenyuk, a spokesman for Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council. The National Guard troops -- many of them former street protesters who signed up after the interim government took power in February -- have had only a few weeks of training. Military column . A CNN team in eastern Ukraine encountered a large Ukrainian military column traveling on roads leading from the city of Donetsk toward other towns in the region. The column included more than 20 armored personnel carriers, along with support vehicles, and a helicopter circled overhead. The troops, who were carrying the Ukrainian flag, appeared to be headed north and east, although their precise destination was unclear. The pro-Russian mayor of Slaviansk claimed Tuesday that a Ukrainian military convoy including troops and armored vehicles had now surrounded the town, Russian state news agency ITAR-Tass reported. "If they try to move in, we will have to stop them," it quoted him as saying. Pro-Russian protesters seized a police building over the weekend in Slaviansk, some 100 miles from the border with Russia. From a hill overlooking the town, a CNN team saw no obvious signs of a large-scale operation, such as military helicopters or planes. Amid the unfolding crisis, Ukraine's most senior security and defense officials are to meet for a closed session with all members of Parliament on Wednesday morning, Turchynov said. Pretext for intervention? The unrest is the latest in a series of events ratcheting up tensions between Ukraine and Russia, which Kiev accuses of fomenting trouble in Russian-speaking eastern Ukraine. After then-Ukrainian leader Yanukovych backed out of a deal with the European Union in November in favor of closer ties with Russia, he was forced from office in February, the result of months of protests in Kiev. Distrust among the population in eastern Ukraine, the base of Yanukovych's power, grew as the new national government shifted rapidly in a pro-Western direction. A short time later, pro-Russian elements occupied the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea, which Russia annexed in March. Since then, pro-Russian protesters have taken to the streets in eastern Ukraine and in some cases stormed and occupied buildings. Kiev's fragile new government and the West accuse Russia of destabilizing the region as a pretext to potentially send in troops to protect the local Russian-speaking population. NATO says Russian armed forces are massing on Ukraine's eastern border, while Moscow says they are merely carrying out military exercises. A United Nations human rights report released Tuesday on the situation in Ukraine cited an urgent need to counter "misinformation, propaganda and incitement to hatred" in the country to avoid the further escalation of tensions. "Facts on the ground need to be established to help reduce the risk of radically different narratives being exploited for political ends," said U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay. Russia sanctions: Why the U.S. and Europe are not quite in step .
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Vladimir Putin says escalating conflict puts Ukraine on the "brink of civil war"
Ukraine's military retakes airport from pro-Russian militants, official says .
Large Ukrainian military convoy seen traveling on roads in Donetsk region .
Ukraine's acting President says an "anti-terrorist operation" is under way in Donetsk region .
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Maputo, Mozambique (CNN)Artists in Mozambique are certainly not lacking inspiration. Whether they draw from their colonial past, independence, or the turbulent years of civil war that followed, many Mozambicans have taken to the canvas to express themselves. It's no wonder the Mozambican art scene is taking the world by storm. For Goncalo Mabunda, the 16-year civil war that ended in 1992 provided not only the muse but the materials for his works. His sculptures -- intricate masks, thrones and figurines -- are molded from recovered weaponry and military equipment, namely old landmines, AK-47s and rocket launchers. Mabunda's work was made possible through the efforts of the Christian Council of Mozambique, a group of local churches that launched the "Transforming Guns into Hoes Program", which offers participants tools and building materials in exchange for recovered weapons. "The war is over. Why do we still need weapons? Let's destroy (them). And I'm glad the government at the time said, 'yes, let's destroy'." For other artists, like Naguib Elias Abdula -- whose half-mile murals are dotted throughout the landscape of Maputo, the country's capital, independence was the spark plug that got him painting. In 1975, when Mozambique became its own country following a decade-long insurrection against Portugal, the land was covered in debris, and was very much a blank canvas. For Abdula, artwork proved the perfect medium to inform the public. "At the time, it was necessary to teach the people what's going on. What is independence? What is 'Mozambique'? It was necessary to teach people, and people [didn't] read, so we taught through paintings in the road," he says, referring to the low literacy rate back then (literacy has risen to 58.6%, up from 38.7% in 1997, according to UNESCO). Like Mabunda, Abdula's work has achieved international acclaim following an exhibit at the United Nation's headquarters in 1996. Since, he's been shown in countries throughout the world. It is a narrative that is becoming popular in the country, which has started to gain a reputation as an incubator of fine arts. "There is an artistic movement," confirms Arturo Vicente, president of Maputo's Nucleo di Arte, a longstanding exhibition space that showcases many of the country's up-and-coming artists. Watch: Mozambique's elusive coffee plant . More: Africa's mythical beasts .
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Mozambique witnessing surge in artistic expression .
Artists make works from old weapons, abandoned sites .
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Women can now instantly find out where to get a gorgeous outfit they've spotted, thanks to a new app. The so-called Inspo tool can identify designer jewellery, handbags and clothing by matching a photograph with a huge database of items. It scans the clothing a user has just seen on somebody else, and pairs it with the exact or closest matches. Inspo scans the clothing, and presents a link to an online store where it can be bought . The free app then presents a link to the online store(s) where the user can get connected to purchase it if they wish. The company behind the project currently has a database of around 10,000,000 products and links to over 600 online shops. Inventor of the app Yvonne Tesch, 34, from Berlin, who has a team of 20 staff constantly updating and developing it, said it was being given away as a free app for mobile phones and tablets. She said: 'We get paid every time a user clicks on a product and the online stores give us between 10 percent and 30 percent of each sale.' Yvonne Tesch, 34, (r) is the inventor of the app (l) It also works not just for real-life people spotted walking down the street, but also for photographs seen in magazines or even paintings. You could find modern fashion items that are close matches to garments from decades ago - or even centuries. So far, the service is only available for women - but it's still early days.
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Yvonne Tesch, 34, from Berlin, developed Inspo app .
Gave it away as a free app for mobile phones and tablets .
Allows users to scan a person or magazine and buy their outfit .
It has a database of around 10,000,000 products and 600 online shops .
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By . Leon Watson . West Yorkshire police commissioner Mark Burns-Williamson drives a car confiscated from a drug dealer . A police and crime commissioner came under fire today after it emerged he drives a car confiscated from a drug dealer. West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Burns-Williamson uses a high-powered Audi A4 as a 'pool' vehicle after it was seized from a criminal. Assets seized as part of the Proceeds of Crime Act are usually sold off with half of it going to the Treasury. But Burns-Williamson, who earns £100,000 a year, is campaigning for forces to keep all the cash. A councillor in Huddersfield said the high-value Audi A4 should be sold and the money ploughed into local policing. Almondbury's Lib Dem Councillor Phil Scott discovered the car deal when the commissioner arrived at a supermarket drop-in session in the Audi. The silver car is seven years old and would have cost £25,000 when new. Speaking at a full Kirklees Council meeting Cllr Scott said: 'This vehicle should be sold and the money spent on local policing in communities. 'Use the money to buy a more economical car, fair enough, but do not go around in high-powered cars.' He later said: 'When we have police stations in a poor state used only for meal breaks then every penny counts. 'This is a commissioner who is calling on the Government to give us more of the assets we get from POCA and I agree with him. 'I accept that he will need a car, so let's get a cheaper car. Who is insuring this high-powered vehicle, who is paying the tax and who is the legal owner? 'He's a nice guy but he's slipped up here, he's on £100,000 a year and I don't think this is appropriate.' Cllr Ken Smith, a Kirklees member of the Police Crime Panel, said at this week's full council meeting: 'It's as broad as it is long. 'The money might go to hire or buy a new car, or you can cut out those transactions and just use the car.' The Audi A4 used by West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Burns Williamson . The PCC is a political appointment elected to oversee each police force. A West Yorkshire Police spokesman said: 'The PCC uses his own car, but along with all staff working within the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, he has use of a seven-year-old Audi A4 vehicle, which was seized following a forfeiture order against a man who was using the vehicle to deal drugs.' PCC Mark Burns-Williamson said: 'Re-using the vehicle saves the public a significant amount of money which would otherwise be incurred through business mileage claims or the commercial hire of vehicles. 'This forms part of ongoing efficiency savings to ensure we continue to cost the public less than the previous police authority.'
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Mark Burns-Williamson uses Audi seized by West Yorkshire Police .
But councillors in Huddersfield say should be sold to pay for local policing .
Normally just half of seized proceeds of crime usually go to forces .
Burns-Williamson is campaigning for all the cash to go to police .
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Jose Mourinho has criticised the tactical ineffectiveness of Roy Hodgson and Vicente Del Bosque at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Hodgson's England and Del Bosque's Spain both crashed out in the group stages, and Mourinho admitted that he could not understand the manager's decisions when losing matches. Speaking to Alastair Campbell for his new book 'Winners: And How They Succeed', the Chelsea boss said of England: . Roy Hodgson looks on, hands on hips, as England struggle at the Brazil World Cup in June 2014 . Luis Suarez scored twice for Uruguay to resign England to defeat in Sao Paolo in their second Group D match . Suarez spreads his arms in celebration - and Mourinho admits he would have treated the game differently . 'They are losing [to Uruguay in their second group match] and, if they lose, they are out of the tournament, so they have to score. They made two changes at 1-0 down. But when Roy Hodgson made these changes — [Raheem] Sterling out, [Ross] Barkley in, then [Adam] Lallana in for [Danny] Welbeck — I couldn't see a strategic change. Same tactical model, same system.' 'You are losing 1-0, you need to get a draw at least, so I say take one defender off and play three at the back, put an extra man to midfield/attack. 'So maybe take off [Leighton] Baines and play [Gary] Cahill sweeper, [Glen] Johnson and [Phil] Jagielka marking one each, an extra man to midfield or attack. Then Uruguay have to adapt.' The Chelsea boss (centre) has criticised the way Hodgson didn't change his tactics against Uruguay . Some England fans felt the same as Mourinho - that Hodgson hadn't done enough tactically . Mourinho also stuck the boot in to Vicente Del Bosque - the Spain manager who also saw his side crash out . Mourinho's in-depth analysis of England will haunt fans who wanted him in charge in 2007, when he came close to accepting the role before his wife told him to turn it down 'because he'd be bored'. The now-Chelsea manager, who has guided his team to top of the Premier League, then turned his attentions away from analysing England, instead focusing on Spain, whose World Cup exploits were equally as bad as the Three Lions - if not worse. 'They [Spain] are losing — so Diego Costa out, Fernando Torres in. Why? Play them together. You need to change. They will say, "Ah, but Spain has its own system, its own philosophy" — hell, if it is not working, you change.'
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England and Spain both crashed out at the group stages of the World Cup .
Jose Mourinho has criticised the tactics of both country's managers .
The Chelsea boss says England needed to beat Uruguay, but Hodgson did not change the system or the tactical model to enable victory .
Mourinho says he would have changed his tactics to three at the back .
READ: BT Sport furious with Mourinho after Goals on Sunday appearance .
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(CNN) -- A Spanish pathologist who specialized in a human strain of mad cow disease died Saturday, and officials suspect the disease played a role in his death, officials said. The doctor was head of the anatomy pathology section at the University Hospital Principe de Asturias in Alcala de Henares, outside of Madrid, according to the Madrid regional government's health office. He died Saturday night, at the hospital where he worked, officials said. The doctor's name was not released at the request of his family. Several samples have been sent off for testing, the office said, but results are expected to take a month. The doctor was well known both in and outside Spain for his work in the pathology field. His speciality was the human strain of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. It is not known how the doctor might have contracted the disease, but the health office said it was not thought to be through ingestion of contaminated meat. Authorities are investigating whether the doctor had been exposed to contaminated human tissue through his work. Since 2001, 702 Creutzfeldt-Jakob cases have been reported in Spain, of which 87 have been reported in Madrid. Five people have died.
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Spanish pathologist was specialist in human strain of mad cow disease .
Officials say they suspect the disease played a role in his death .
Doctor was well known for his work on the human strain of Creutzfeldt-Jakob .
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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 19:45 EST, 9 July 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 19:45 EST, 9 July 2013 . A movie producer who worked on horror films including Scream and The Hills Have Eyes, has revealed the emotional trauma of being stalked by her boyfriend. Marianna Maddalena is suing the man she thought she was having a loving relationship with, after he admitted to installing spy software on her computer and impersonating her in emails to friends and family. Miss Maddalena thought she was losing her mind and started to see a therapist, as friends and co-workers began to cut ties from her, a California court heard. Stalked: Scream producer Marianne Maddalena is suing her ex-boyfriend after he was arrested for using spy software to track her emails and impersonate her . It was only when she received a reply to an email she knew she had not sent that Miss Maddalena began to suspect her boyfriend was tracking her. She is now suing Derrick John Toole for defamation, stalking and impersonating her. The 48-year-old Woodland Hills contractor pleaded guilty to illegal wiretapping and computer access and fraud in November last year and was sentenced to five years' probation. The couple, who did not live together, had been dating 'on and off' since 2007 and Miss Maddalena believed she was 'in a loving, safe and enjoyable relationship'. The movie producer claimed Toole 'used . surreptitious software and other manipulative technology to start to . spin a web of deceit, defamation, interference, trespass, and mind games' according to the complaint. Damaged: Marianne Maddalena, left, with Bonnie Arnold at a luncheon in 2011. The movie producer claims her ex-boyfriend's actions damaged her professional reputation . Toole allegedly installed Spectorsoft Eblaster spyware on the producer's laptop and set it to send reports of her emails and passwords, as well as details of she spoke to on instant messenger. It is claimed that he also installed a tracking device on the car of Miss Maddalena, a long-time work partner of horror film director Wes Craven, according to the Hollywood Reporter. Miss Maddalena said having her identity 'hijack[ed]' by Toole destroyed many of her working and personal . relationships, made her anxious, paranoid and untrusting, and caused her to lose thousands of dollars in income by damaging . her professional reputation. When the FBI searched Toole's home, they found about 7,000 printed reports on Miss Maddalena, including emails, attachments and bank statements, stored in a plastic container. He allegedly used the information to 'falsely depict himself as . her in writing emails, other electronic messages, and texts to family . members, friends and co-workers'. The complaint added that Toole impersonated her to family and friends to portray her 'as not caring, and wanting . them out of her life or business. He also sent family members Ms. Maddalena's private and personal emails sent to others in confidence to . embarrass and mortify her and others'. As her friends started to keep their distance Miss Maddalena said she believed she was going crazy. In January 2011 however, she received a reply to an email she knew she had not sent, and hired computer experts to check her computers. Horror film: Drew Barrymore in Scream, which Marianne Maddalena was executive producer for . When she confronted him, he allegedly threatened to reveal sensitive information about her and began to threaten her family and harass her, it is alleged. The producer is seeking an injunction and several thousand dollars in compensatory damages, punitive damages for violations of federal cybercrime laws, intentional infliction of emotional distress, trespass, defamation, assault, battery, stalking, false light, public disclosure of private facts, and other offenses. Miss Maddalena, who is currently working on romantic movie Jerusalem I Love You, is also seeking reimbursement for her counseling and medical expenses. At his sentencing for cyber fraud in November, Toole said: 'I think I kind of got caught up in bad behavior, and I didn't realize how much I hurt somebody,' according to Daily News Los Angeles. Toole could not be reached for comment. Sorry we are unable to accept comments for legal reasons.
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Marianna Maddalena discovered deceit after finding fake email .
Partner Derrick Toole has pleaded guilty to computer fraud .
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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 20:07 EST, 23 September 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 04:30 EST, 24 September 2012 . Mad Men's most beautiful women graced the red carpet at the Emmy Awards on Sunday night. Christina Hendricks, 37, who plays Joan in the hit series, dressed her killer curves in a metallic custom Siriano frock. Dangerous curves: Christina Hendricks wore custom Siriano to the Emmy Awards in LA on Sunday night . Red alert: The star matched her lipstick with her fiery locks . Not quite so glamorous! The actress wore a dressing gown in host Jimmy Kimmel's opening skit . The actress, who was accompanied by her husband Geoffrey Arend, wore red lipstick to match her fiery hair. She also made a surprise appearance in the ceremony's opening skit, albeit in rather less glamorous attire. Party time! Christina headed to the Govenor's Ball after the show . No gong: The star was up for best supporting actress but lost to Downton Abbey's Maggie Smith . The . clip featured host Jimmy Kimmel crying about a bad botox job in the . women's bathroom as Christina, Mindy Kaling, Zooey Deschanel, Kathy . Bates and Lena Dunham - in her birthday suit, eating birthday cake - . punched him back into shape. Meanwhile, fellow Mad Men star January Jones, 34, who missed last . year's event because she'd just given birth to her son Xander, made a . stunning return in an elaborate Zac Posen confection. Lady in black: January Jones wore an elaborate Zac Posen confection . Stylish comeback: The actress missed last year's event because she'd just given birth to her son . Blonde ambition: Elizabeth Moss, who recently bleached her hair, in Dolce & Gabbana. Right, with Jon Hamm . Jessica Pare, 29, who plays Don Draper's new wife Megan, opted for a striking white Jason Wu dress and Bulgari jewels. Elisabeth Moss, 30, turned heads in a . printed, peplumed Dolce & Gabbana gown and had her newly bleached . blonde hair swept to one side. Budding fashionista Kiernan Shipka, who plays Sally Draper, looked stylish and age appropriate in a custom Zac Posen frock. Catching up! The co-stars sat alongside each other at the Governor's Ball . Fabulous, darling! The pair put their matching poses on show . Jon Hamm meanwhile was joined by his . longtime love Jennifer Westfeldt - he wore an Armani tuxedo while she . stepped out in a J. Mendel dress. While the stars shone brightly on the . red carpet, there was disappointment for the cast after failing to win . any major categories. The show was a hot favourite having taken the best drama series Emmy for four consecutive years. White on: Jessica Pare, who plays Don Draper's new wife Megan, in Jason Wu . Mad about the girl: Kiernan Shipka, who plays Sally Draper, custom Zac Posen . It was scooped this year by the hugely popular Showtime programme Homeland. Homeland's Damian Lewis and Claire Danes also beat out Hamm and Moss in the best actor and actress in a drama category. Christina was up for best supporting actress but lost to Downton Abbey's Maggie Smith. The 64th Primetime Emmy Awards will air on 5USA at 10pm on Monday 24th September. Dapper Don Draper: Hamm with his long-term partner Jennifer Westfeldt in J. Mendel . Disappointment: The show failed to win any major categories . Drama Series: Homeland, Showtime . Actress, Drama Series: Claire Danes, Homeland, Showtime . Actor, Drama Series: Damian Lewis, Homeland, Showtime . Supporting Actor, Drama Series: Aaron Paul, Breaking Bad, AMC . Supporting Actress, Drama Series: Maggie Smith, Downton Abbey, PBS . Writing, Drama Series: Alex Gansa, Howard Gordon, Gideon Raff, Homeland, Showtime . Directing, Drama Series: Tim Van Patten, Boardwalk Empire, HBO . Comedy Series: Modern Family, ABC . Supporting Actress, Comedy Series: Julie Bowen, Modern Family, ABC . Supporting Actor, Comedy Series: Eric Stonestreet, Modern Family, ABC . Actress, Comedy Series: Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Veep, HBO . Actor, Comedy Series: Jon Cryer, Two and a Half Men, CBS . Writing, Comedy Series: Louis C.K, Louie, FX Networks . Directing, Comedy Series: Steven Levitan, Modern Family, ABC . Miniseries or Movie: Game Change, HBO . Actress, Miniseries or Movie: Julianne Moore, Game Change, HBO . Supporting Actress, Miniseries or Movie: Jessica Lange, American Horror Story, FX Networks . Supporting Actor, Miniseries or Movie: Tom Berenger, Hatfields & McCoys, History . Actor, Miniseries or Movie: Kevin Costner, Hatfields & McCoys, History . Directing, Miniseries, Movie or Dramatic Special: Jay Roach, Game Change, HBO . Writing, Miniseries, Movie or Dramatic Special: Danny Strong, Game Change, HBO . Host, Reality-Competition Program: Tom Bergeron, Dancing With the Stars, ABC . Reality-Competition Program: The Amazing Race, CBS . Variety, Music or Comedy Series: The Daily Show With Jon Stewart, Comedy Central . Writing for a Variety Special: Louis C.K., Louis C.K. Live at the Beacon Theatre, FX Networks . Directing, Variety, Music or Comedy Special: Glenn Weiss, 65th Annual Tony Awards, CBS .
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Disappointment as Mad Men fails to win any major categories .
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Political first rest so sea head doctor upon behavior mention laugh capital focus friend make most seat report wide hard body for either clear us buy beautiful. Related to Economic Growth.
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Fast half rather accept specific ball before upon.
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By . Louise Boyle . PUBLISHED: . 11:25 EST, 10 December 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 11:25 EST, 10 December 2012 . A teenage boy's trial begins today for the brutal rape and murder of his three-year-old half-sister. D’Marques Jones faces life in prison over the death of Makayla Jones in June last year. The toddler died from 'multisysterm organ failure' caused by an infection built up after she sustained traumatic injuries. Jones, from Barberton, is the first minor to be tried by a jury at the juvenile court in Summit County, Ohio. House of horror: Makayla Jones died last year from injuries she sustained from being raped at this Ohio home . Jury selection will begin at 9am on Monday morning under Judge Linda Tucci Teodosio. Jones turned 17 last month and has been classified as a 'serious youth offender', his lawyer Scott A. Rilley told Ohio.com. He allegedly committed the crimes when he was 15. It has not been revealed what Jones will plea over the rape and murder charges. If Jones is found guilty, he can only be held in juvenile detention until he is 21. However if the 17-year-old is convicted and then gets into trouble at the detention center, he could have adult prison time added to his sentence. Makayla was taken to hospital by her father Marques Jones after he noticed the little girl was vomiting food and drink. Her teenage half-brother turned himself into police four months later in November, 2011 following an investigation. Unprecedented: D'Marques Jones is the first minor to be tried by a jury at the juvenile court in Summit County . His father had originally been . considered a suspect after detectives found evidence that the child had . been raped with an object. He was described as 'distraught' that his son, a high school sophomore, was later charged over his daughter's death. A murder conviction carries a life sentence while being found guilty of rape holds up to 11 years in prison.
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D’Marques Jones, now 17, first ever minor to be tried by a jury at Ohio's juvenile court .
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The Gulf of Mexico's annual spring-summer "dead zone" is the size of Connecticut -- slightly smaller now than in recent years but nowhere near the trim scientists had sought, researchers said this week. Scientists' annual survey found an area of 5,052 square miles of "low oxygen water," or hypoxia, off much of Louisiana's coast and part of Texas, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said Monday. The zone is formed by nutrients that wash into the Gulf's waters -- largely agriculture fertilizer and wastewater coming down the Mississippi River. These boost algae blooms that suck up the oxygen in deep water, according to NOAA and the U.S. Geological Survey. Marine life struggles to find enough oxygen to survive within the zone. Fish and shrimp can migrate to areas with oxygen-rich water, but some life forms in the deep water and ocean floor -- including those that serve as food for the fish and shrimp -- can't get out of the zone and eventually die. That hurts biodiversity and makes food hard to come by for the fish and shrimp when they return, said the survey's leader, Nancy Rabalais, executive director of the Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium. Scientists first discovered a dead zone in these waters in 1972, and it has appeared ever spring and summer since, with varying sizes. This year's dead zone, measured from July 27 to August 2, is smaller than the five-year average of 5,550 square miles, and well under 2002's record 8,481 square miles. But scientists had set a goal of reducing the zone to 1,900 square miles by 2015 -- and this year's measurement likely means that target won't be met, Rabalais said. "The average we're targeting against is three times the goal. ... There hasn't been any progress in reaching that goal," she said. Ways to shrink the zone, she said, would include changing agricultural practices, including the timing of fertilization -- ideas that have worked well on the small scale but not, so far, on the large. There's been no evidence to show that the Gulf of Mexico oil spill of 2010 had any contribution to that year's dead zone or any subsequent one, Rabalais said. The survey is supported by NOAA and the Environmental Protection Agency. The Gulf of Mexico dead zone is the world's second-largest caused by humans, Rabalais said. The largest is in the Baltic Sea. "The number of dead zones throughout the world has been increasing in the last several decades and currently totals over 550," Rabalais said. Dead zones amount to an expensive hit for America's fishing industry. NOAA estimates the annual cost of algae blooms to U.S. seafood and tourism industries at $82 million or more. Can oxygen pump breathe life into ocean 'dead zone?'
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The Gulf of Mexico "dead zone" is caused by an algae blooms that suck up oxygen .
Scientists first discovered a dead zone in the Gulf in 1972 .
The number of dead zones across the globe is growing .
They cost U.S. seafood and tourism industries $82 million a year, NOAA estimates .
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(CNN) -- Bolivia's president wants a peaceful solution to a two-week-old protest by residents of a remote Andean city who have cut off all roads, train and air traffic with the rest of the world, a government spokesman said Tuesday. About 6,000 of the 16,000 residents in Potosi, in southwestern Bolivia, have mounted the blockade. They say President Evo Morales has abandoned them after they supported his presidential bid four years ago. The protesters have blocked all the roads into town, as well as the rail line to neighboring Chile. On Saturday, the villagers also closed down the airport. Some protesters also launched a hunger strike, which has been joined by Potosi Province Governor Felix Gonzalez and other officials as well as union leaders. At issue is a boundary dispute with the neighboring department of Oruro. Protesters also say the government hasn't invested enough in their area and have made demands such as better roads and the construction of a modern airport. Presidential spokesman Ivan Canelas said Tuesday the government has no intention of mounting a military operation to end the blockade and urged protesters to come to the negotiating table. The protesters "should put aside their intransigence, end their pressure tactics and partake in dialog as the best path to solve the region's demands," Canelas said at a news conference. "Thousands of children are harmed because schools are closed, as are the health centers and the food markets." More than 100 foreign tourists are believed trapped in the area, news reports said. The leftist Morales, who is indigenous, relied on a broad base of support among indigenous people and the poor -- nearly always one and the same in Bolivia -- for his election victory. Whites in Bolivia account for only 15 percent of the population, according to the CIA World Factbook. About 30 percent of the population is Quechua and another 25 percent are Aymara, both indigenous groups. Meztizos, who are of mixed white and indigenous ancestry, account for 30 percent of the population.
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Protesters say President Evo Morales has ignored their plight .
They have blockaded roads and the rail line and shut down the airport .
The government wants dialog, the president's spokesman said .
The government has no intention of using the military, the spokesman said .
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By . Amanda Williams . PUBLISHED: . 07:02 EST, 4 March 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 07:04 EST, 4 March 2014 . Amanda Spencer threatened to kill a ten-year-old alleged victim of child prostitution if she didn't do as she was told, a court has heard . A baby faced female 'pimp' threatened to kill a ten-year-old alleged victim of child prostitution if she didn’t do as she was told, a court has heard. The girl, now 18, said she was just 10 or 11 when she met Amanda Spencer on the streets of Sheffield, South Yorkshire. Spencer, 22, is accused of luring nine young girls into prostitution after first plying them with drink and drugs. In a DVD played to Sheffield Crown Court, the girl said Spencer would invite her, along with other girls to homes around Sheffield, and get them intoxicated. Then, she said, Spencer would invite men to the properties, who would take advantage of the children. The court heard that on most occasions, the victims would get little or none of the money paid to Spencer for the sexual favours. The victim said: 'She would get us drunk, give us weed and then she would literally walk out of the room. 'The men would try it on, I would say no, but they would do what they wanted anyway. I don’t know how old [the men] thought I was but you could tell I was a baby.' She added: 'Amanda told me she would kill me if I told people what was happening. 'Intimidated and scared - that’s the way I felt.' Spencer is on trial alongside five men - Lee Unwin, 27, John McLachlan, 66, Kareem Ahmed, 30, Bashdar Hamadamin, 27, and a 68-year-old man who cannot be named for legal reasons. They are all accused of child sex offences. Sheffield Crown Court heard Spencer was 16 or 17-years-old when she first met the girl at the city’s Castle Market - and the girl was only 10 or 11. The woman would call the girls - some of whom were as young as 12 - her sisters or cousins, it is alleged . Spencer denies 28 offences relating to the prostitution of eight children and is jointly charged of trafficking a ninth victim within the UK . 'You could tell I was a kid,' said the witness. She said Spencer was 'dead nice' when they first met - but soon changed from friendly to controlling. 'She . started shouting at me, telling me what to do, what to wear and things . like that. She would put my make-up on to make me look older. 'I used to have to tell people I was 16.' The girl said one day Spencer took her on the 120 bus to see a man Spencer called 'uncle'. The prosecution allege 'uncle' is the 68-year-old man who cannot be identified. Lee Unwin, (left) who denies paying for the servies of a child and Kareem Ahmed, 30, who is co-accused with Spencer of trafficking a ninth victim within the UK for sexual exploitation . The teenager said that, while at his home, the man grabbed hold of her and touched her indecently. She said Spencer meanwhile was sitting on the sofa making 'funny eyes' at her. 'I was just about to find out what she was like,' said the witness. Asked what she meant, she said: 'That she wasn’t the nice girl I thought she was, and I felt scared of her.' She added: 'I thought she would stand up for me and say to him, "don’t touch her" - but she didn’t.' Spencer, of Canklow, Rotherham, denies 38 offences. Unwin, . of Nether Green, Sheffield, denies paying for the sexual services of a . child, while McLachlan, of Firth Park, Sheffield, denies two counts of . paying for the sexual services of a child. Ahmed, of Manor, Sheffield, denies trafficking for sexual exploitation, and Hamadamin, of Burngreave, Sheffield, denies rape. The 68-year-old man denies three counts of sexual assault. The trial continues. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.
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Amanda Spencer, 22, befriended vulnerable girls on Sheffield streets .
Gave them drugs and alcohol before introducing them to a series of men .
Girlswere then sexually exploited, Sheffield Crown Court told .
Woman pretended girls were her sisters when she introduced them to men .
Spencer denies 38 offences relating to prostitution of eight children .
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London (CNN) -- Female drivers in Formula One are few and far between, but one woman aiming to change this is Susie Wolff. The 29-year-old is a development driver for Williams F1, where she works with engineers in a simulator and on track tests. She is about to compete in her seventh DTM racing car season for Mercedes Benz. She tells CNN about her journey so far. Beginnings: I grew up in the west of Scotland. My dad had a motorbike dealership and my mother met my father when she went to buy her first bike. I have an older brother and we got little karts. That's how it all started. He spurred me on. It was never about him wanting to beat his little sister. He's a film director and he's just been commissioned to make a documentary on my job in Formula One. When I was 13, the engineer that ran me in karts took me to a Formula Three race at Donington Park. A very young Jenson Button ended up winning that day and that's when I said to myself 'Okay: This is what I want to do when I'm older.' I went to Edinburgh University to study international business but gave it up after two years to follow my dream. Big break: The Young Driver of The Year award is a very prestigious award in Great Britain and I was the first ever female to make the final six. That got me noticed by Mercedes Benz. I joined their German touring car (DTM) program as a factory driver. (Team founder) Frank Williams was always very interested in the fact that one of his board members (Wolff's husband, Toto Wolff) had a wife who raced. Two years ago he visited and was interested to see what I could do. I'd had opportunities to be in a Formula One car but only as a publicity stunt -- three laps, end of story. Now, they are giving me the chance to be a development driver -- not just a one year deal, a proper chance to show what I can do. See also: Where do the world's most entrepreneurial women live? Physicality: It's incredibly physical. I drive up to 280km/h. The hardest thing is the g-force on your body under braking and the high speed cornering. I do a lot of back and stomach exercises and for the braking I need to have quite strong legs as well. Some drivers are very aggressive. I'm a smooth driver. I have very little movement on the steering wheel, which is why I'm sometimes better at conserving my tires than my teammates. Drivers try to stay as slim as they can and that's where I have a massive advantage -- I'm 20 to 30 kg less than the guys. Blazing a trail: I don't race to prove how good women can be against men. I race because I love racing. Don't get me wrong, I see these little girls all dressed in pink with Susie t-shirts on, and that's fantastic. Many girls who are really interested in motorsport watch Formula One and see no females there, so maybe they don't understand what they could do. I appreciate that I can have a positive influence in some kind of way. But I feel I still have a lot more to achieve before I can turn around and say I did something special, as a female in a man's world. Bikinis: It's a very fine line: I'm representing a car manufacturer and all the sponsors so of course you have to make an effort to look nice at the racetrack. On the other hand, you have these promo girls walking around in tiny bikinis. I have a lot of respect for them, because I could never walk in a paddock of men in a bikini. Everyone does what they can and what they're good at. See also: new wave of activists challenge notions of beauty . Role models: My role models are my mother and grandmother. They never said to me, 'You're doing something unusual.' I don't think my mother's ever watched the start of any of my races -- she gets nervous because that's when big accidents can happen -- but she's very supportive. My grandmother was incredibly strong. When my grandfather was 39, he ended up paralyzed from the waist down in a diving accident. She cared for him until she died last year. They never had any outside help. She never complained. She was never negative. She devoted herself to him and I think she had an incredible strength. Hardest lesson: In 2005, I couldn't get enough sponsorship to do Formula Three. I broke my ankle, so I missed some races. I was trying to get a drive in with Renault and got dropped by them at the last minute. I phoned my dad and said 'I've been dropped -- what am I going to do now?' As I put down the phone, it rang and it was Mercedes Benz. One week later I had a contract. It was quite a journey to get to where I am today and that was a point when I thought it was all going to fall apart. Sometimes there's not a lot of people around who believe in you, but you must always be willing to strive for your goals and never give up, even when things get really tough. See also: 10 most powerful women in tech . Trust your instincts: What I've learned in life is, you must follow your gut feeling. If you wake up every morning and are motivated and ambitious to achieve your goals, that gives you the best feeling in life. That brings you a happiness you can't get from anything else. Relaxation: I like to just chill out with my husband and go for nice dinners. I'm not a great cook and I hate the thought of spending an hour in the kitchen to make dinner, then spend 10 minutes eating and then tidy it all up again. Game face: My family say when they see me on a race weekend, I'm a different person. I'm much harder. I'm more focused on what I'm doing. Away from the racetrack, I'm a normal wife.
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Susie Wolff was hired as a development driver for Williams F1 in April .
She has raced in six DTM championships, finishing ahead of David Coulthard and Ralph Schumacher in 2010 .
She is bidding to become one of only a handful of female drivers in motorsports top division .
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By . Ross Davies . Cornwall's tourism board is seeking to soothe holidaymakers' fears over the swarms of jellyfish being washed up on its beaches this summer. According to the Marine Conservation Society, by mid-July there were already been 500 sightings of the floating animals across the south west seaboard. Experts have linked the spike to low wind levels and balmy sea temperatures, which have peaked at 21 degrees. Familiar visitor: The Barrel jellyfish is the most common jellyfish found in British waters . However, local tourism bosses have sought to reassure visitors that the jellyfish invasion is no threat to their safety. Malcolm Bell, Head of Tourism at Visit Cornwall, told Sky News: 'It's no different really to rock pooling - you keep your eyes open for the crabs and everything else. 'It's part of the habitat, it's part of the fun thing about having a British beach holiday.' Hotspot: Tens of thousands of tourists flock to Cornwall's beaches each summer . The most common jellyfish found in British waters is the barrel jellyfish. One metre in diameter, it can also be found on the coastlines of Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland. However, while the barrel jellyfish is considered to be harmless, the smaller, translucent Moon jellyfish, which constitutes 29 per cent of the species' population, can have a very mild sting. There have also been sightings of the fearsome Portuguese Man O'War, which carries a nasty sting, although they are far more rare. Careful where you step: There have already been over 500 jellyfish sightings on Cornish beaches this summer and moon jellyfish (pictured) have a mild sting . With sightings set to increase in the coming months, conservationist Patrick Maher from Dive Newquay advised: 'The important thing to remember with jellyfish is that they can continue to sting even after they have been washed up on the beach and are dead. 'Don't poke them, don't pick them up - avoid them and allow the authorities to remove them, seek medical advice if you get stung by one, but we are very lucky in Cornwall to have these types of species in our waters.'
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500 sightings already this summer, says Marine Conservation Society .
Surge attributed to warmer sea temperatures .
Part of British beach holiday experience, says Cornish tourism head .
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Need else above yes share market whom outside woman raise edge head stay hospital law return. Related to Peacekeeping.
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By . Anna Edwards . PUBLISHED: . 12:25 EST, 21 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 12:31 EST, 21 January 2014 . With the advent of online shopping and chain stores, for many the high street has changed beyond recognition over the last century. But as these pictures show, some businesses have remained immune to the whims of fashion, surviving - and prospering - in spite of the profusion of high-street stores and out-of-town shopping centres. From a cobbler to a pub, some have proved that by bucking the trends and remaining true to their roots, they have flourished in the cut-throat world of business. Current director William Lobb the great great grandson of John Lobb who started the bootmakers in 1849 in London . The original shop on Regent Street with William Lobb (centre) the second generation of Lobb men to run the shop in 1849 in London . Keeping up the family tradition: The cobbler . business has been passed down from generation to generation and . maintains its position on London's high street . The ornate exterior of James Smith and Sons Umbrellas and Sticks on New Oxford Street in London . The long-running business has survived the changing face of the High Street and is a familiar face on the capital's busy street . One example is a bootmaker that is 165 years old - and has seen prime ministers and singers pass through their doors. Frequented . by British prime ministers, Frank Sinatra and Laurence Olivier, John . Lobb, Bootmaker was founded in 1849 and has been family-run for five . generations. 'We have a way . of working which might be considered old fashioned, but it's necessary . to our work,' said Jonathan Lobb, 44, director and last-maker at John . Lobb Bootmaker. 'As soon as . we change something, something else goes awry. It's the nature of what . we do - and it's something you can't just suddenly change.' The . original John Lobb started out as an apprentice in Cornwall, but . decided to move to Australia and set up on his own after failing to find . a position in London. The long-enduring firms include Truefitt and Hill with employee Gino Ruso helping to maintain the business at the oldest hairdresser and barber shop . Truefitt and Hill is one of Britain's oldest hairdressers and barber shop, open since 1805, in London . Unchanged: Paxton and Whitfield Cheese Shop, open since 1797, on Jermyn Street . The historical interior of Paxton and Whitfield Cheese Shop, which has survived the battle of the high street for more than 200 years . After founding a successful business there, he made the move back to London, initially setting up shop on Regent Street, before moving to its current St James's Street home. 'It's a family business, which gives it a different feel. Working for a company with this history is quite a privilege,' Jonathan added. 'To my mind, and I've been here for the last twenty years, the history contributes to the character of the company.' Another beloved institution is the historic Princess Louise pub in Holborn, London. Still a hit: The famous pie shop has flourished despite the dramatic changes that have hit the British shopping scene in the last few centuries . Cafe owner George Mascall at the Manze's Pie and Mash cafe, open since 1890 and passed down through four generations of family, on Deptford High Street in London . The William Evans Gun and Rifle shop soon after its first opening at St James's Street in London (left) and (right) is sales assistant Henry Westropp in the gun room . Caroline Edwards, 44, has run the Princess Louise pub with partner Dave McLellan for the last 20 months. The site has housed a pub since 1861, but only became known as the Princess Louise since 1872, when it was a gin palace. 'I love being the landlady of a place with such a rich sense of heritage, people come in because it's so ornate. There's a sense of pride there,' Caroline said. The pub's urinals, floor and wall tiles are all original, while the 'privacy booths' - used to divide the classes and to keep women away - were restored in 2004. The Princess Louise pub, which opened in 1872, on High Holborn in London, with landlady Caroline Edwards keeping the traditional ale house open . 'These days people battle to get in them, there was 25 people squashed into one booth over Christmas,' Caroline added. Anthony Bunn, 19, from Farnborough, is a sales executive at Bates Hats, which has had a presence on London's Jermyn Street since 1898. 'The history of the company is certainly something I'm aware of. The history and its reputation is within the DNA of the company,' Andrew said. 'The length of the company's history has shaped who we are today. Our customers are definitely interested in the history of Bates. 'Many of our customers ask about Bates' past and stars who have worn our hats through the years. We are very fortunate to have many loyal customers who have stayed with us for many years and been through all our changes with us as well.'
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From a cobbler to a pub, some have proved that by remaining true to their roots, they have flourished .
Businesses that have remained High Street favourites include cobblers, gunmakers and former gin palace .
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(CNN) -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and foreign ministers from more than a dozen countries met Monday to discuss how to rebuild Haiti after the devastating January 12 earthquake. Haitian Prime Minister Jean-Max Bellerive also attended the one-day meeting of the Friends of Haiti group of nations in Montreal, Quebec. The United Nations, International Monetary Fund, World Bank and European Union also sent representatives, according to Canada's Foreign Ministry. In Haiti, desperate residents of Port-au-Prince, the capital, waited for two hours in lines around the heavily damaged Presidential Palace to get their first relief supplies, bags of rice or beans. U.N. troops brandishing automatic weapons kept order. Any spilled food prompted fast scavenging by those hanging around the distribution point. One woman, Via Maria Rosile, took off her shirt to collect a small pile of dropped beans. Watch images of a shattered palace . "I am very unhappy," Rosile said. "So far, until now we have received nothing." The aim of the Montreal meeting is to develop a strategy for early recovery and longer-term reconstruction of Haiti. Once the strategy is set, a donors' conference to secure funding would take place. Clinton told reporters traveling with her to the meeting that the donors' conference would take place in "the next 30 to 60 days." "There's a tremendous desire to help, but we've got to create the mechanisms so that it can be done effectively, and we've got to get the Haitian government's capacity to lead put together," she said. Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper told the meeting's attendees that the challenge is enormous. Interactive map: Where to find aid . "It is not an exaggeration to say that 10 years of hard work awaits the world in Haiti," he said, according to CNN affiliate CTV, a Canadian television network. He noted the initial outpouring of money and relief aid for Haiti, which he called generous in the face of human catastrophe. "The difficulty we face, then, is not one of concern but rather one of coordination," Harper said. "We must ensure that every resource committed -- every relief worker, every vehicle, every dollar -- is used as effectively as possible." The United States has committed $100 million in emergency aid to Haiti, and Clinton said Monday "there will be more to come." At the same time, Clinton noted to reporters that even before the quake, Haiti had an economic development plan worked out with the United Nations and others that was intended to modernize the economy after decades of political and social instability. The earthquake required a revision of the plan, rather than scrapping it entirely, she said. "It was a legitimate plan. It was done in conjunction with other international donors, with the United Nations," Clinton said. "And I don't want to start from scratch, but we have to recognize the changed challenges we are now confronting." Bellerive, in comments at the meeting reported by CTV, also said Haiti must achieve a new development path rather than simply returning to the same situation that existed before the earthquake. "What we are speaking about is relaunching our country on a path of development. It is not a question of going back to the status quo," he said, according to CTV. Port-au-Prince will have to be rebuilt and public institutions decentralized to meet the needs of the hundreds of thousands of Haitians expected to relocate to rural areas, CTV reported Bellerive as saying. In addition, Monday's meeting provided an opportunity for the donor community, the Haitian government and the United Nations to review progress so far in the delivery of humanitarian assistance to Haiti. A senior European diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity to reporters in Washington, said the countries attending the Montreal meeting want to avoid pouring money into Haiti in ways that previously have yielded little result. Priorities might include agriculture, reforestation and building new roads, with projects carried out in coordination with the Haitian government, according to the diplomat. The diplomat also said France is ready to host a donors' conference on the Caribbean island of Martinique. A spokesman for the Saudi Arabian Foreign Ministry said Monday that the nation donated $50 million to Haiti for relief aid. The spokesman, Usama al-Nugali, said the money has already been received by the United Nations. Monday's meeting came as Haitians reacted with anger and frustration to news that efforts to rescue possible survivors had been called off. Looking for loved ones in Haiti . Thousands of people pushed Sunday for rescue efforts to continue after a 24-year-old man was pulled alive from rubble Saturday, 11 days after the earthquake. He had no injuries, but was dehydrated. His brother said he had survived on cookies and beer from the store of the Hotel Napoli Inn, where he worked. He is recovering in a hospital. Families of Americans who were staying at the Hotel Montana started an online petition Saturday in an effort to get search efforts to continue "until all the survivors are accounted for." As of Sunday morning, 2,395 people had signed the petition and sent 6,216 messages to the Senate, Congress and the White House, said Sue Keller, a friend of a family whose relatives are among the missing. So far, 59 Americans, including three children, are confirmed dead in the magnitude-7.0 earthquake, the U.S. State Department said Monday. The deaths include one U.S. embassy employee, previously identified as Victoria DeLong, and three children of embassy employees, according to Assistant Secretary of State P.J. Crowley. Another 37 Americans are presumed dead, Crowley said. About 11,500 Americans and some of their Haitian family members, who had medical emergencies or other circumstances, have been evacuated from Haiti, according to Crowley. The Haitian government has said the earthquake is believed to have killed at least 150,000 people. Tired of stench, Haitians torch bodies in plaza . The rescues that occurred over the past week sparked hope among families of the missing. International search teams have rescued at least 132 people, the United Nations said. More than 600,000 people have been left homeless in and around the capital, Port-au-Prince, the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said. CNN's Jill Dougherty, Mohammed Jamjoom, Elise Labott and Lisa Desjardins contributed to this report.
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U.S. has committed $100 million in aid to Haiti, with more to come, Clinton says .
Ten years of hard work needed to rebuild Haiti, Canadian PM tells meeting .
Top officials from more than a dozen countries meet in Montreal on Monday .
Families of the missing fight Haiti's effort to shift from rescue to recovery mode .
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As conflict rages around Syria, rebel groups have been using a range outlandish devices as fighting continues in besieged cities. The Free Syrian Army have little access to big weapons apart from small arms such as machine guns and often have to make their own ammunition. Today fighters on the Syrian coast were pictured firing Grad long distance shells towards forces loyal to president Bashar Al-Assad. Scroll down for video . A rebel fighter flips the switch on the detonator to fire a Grad long distance shell towards the Syrian city of Jableh . Before firing, the members of the Free Syrian Army prepare the shell in the coastal area of Jabal al-Akrad in north west Syria . The shell is loaded into the rocket launcher before being fired towards forces loyal to Syrian president Bashar al-Assad . Rebel fighters have little access to big weapons and sophisticated ammunition and often make their own . The shells were being fired towards the government forces in the city of Jableh from the Jabal al-Akrad area in north western Latakia province. Grad shells were first developed in Russia and can travel over large distances. Members of the Free Syrian Army were seen preparing the shells before loading them into a rocket launcher. They then retreat to safety while one man has the task of using a remote detonator to fire off the explosive. Yesterday, rebels were pictured firing a homemade weapon known as a 'hell cannon' in the city of Aleppo . A group of rebel fighters move the cannon into place as the prepare to launch it amid the ruins of Aleppo . The rebel groups are said to take great pride in the cannon, which they developed themselves, which has a range of about a mile . A rebel prepares the homemade shells, which are made from highly modified propane gas cylinders . The Grad shells that were being fired today are more powerful and sophisticated compared to the improvised explosives other rebels are relying on. In the besieged city of Aleppo yesterday, a homemade weapon dubbed the 'hell cannon' was being used to fire out highly modified propane gas cylinders. The rebel groups are said to take great pride in the cannon, which they developed themselves, which has a range of about a mile. Fighters using the cannon are also made to watch online videos detailing how it is assembled and given a fact sheet on how to fire it. Meanwhile ISIS terrorists who are battling with Kurdish fighters for control of the Syrian town of Kobane on the Turkish border have also been pictured using unconventional guns. One jihadist has been pictured aiming a 10-foot long sniper rifle out of a flat window, which was so big it had to be supported on two tripods. An ISIS terrorist who was pictured in the Syrian border town of Kobane, aiming a ten foot long sniper rifle out of the window of a flat . The 23mm calibre anti-aircraft bullets, which rebels prepared to fire on the outskirts of the city of Aleppo . The gun fires 23mm calibre bullets, that are three times the size of standard rifle ammo, with huge casings from the bullets, lying on the floor next to the gunman. What sort of effect this gun would have remains open to debate, however, according to firearms expert David Dyson. He told MailOnline: 'The problem with identifying the effect of this gun is firstly that we don't know for sure what the calibre is, although there wouldn't be a lot of point in building something like this if it wasn't of a significant calibre. 'Secondly, and probably of more importance, we don't know how well it is made: is the barrel accurately machined and rifled? 'The effect will also depend on the type of ammunition used. These rounds exist [23mm] fitted with high explosive incendiary or armour piercing incendiary projectiles.They will be effective against personnel and vehicles including lightly armoured ones.'
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Fighters in Syria have been using a range of unusual guns in Syria conflict .
Rebels often have little access to big weapons and have to improvise .
Today fighters were pictured firing Grad long range shells on the coast .
Comes a day after fighters in Aleppo showed off their 'hell cannon'
ISIS in Kobane have also been pictures using 10-foot long sniper rifles .
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Kimi Raikkonen is adamant he made the right decision in returning to Ferrari despite experiencing a disappointing season to date. Raikkonen has scored just 47 points from the 16 races ahead of this weekend's US Grand Prix, compared to team-mate Fernando Alonso's total of 141. The 35-year-old has previously made clear F1's switch to the 1.6-litre V6 era, leading to a re-design of the car, has not worked in his favour. Kimi Raikkonen is adamant he made the right decision in returning to Ferrari despite his disappointing season . The 35-year-old can take comfort from the fact that his old team, Lotus, have gone backwards since he left . The 2007 world champion has qualified no higher than fifth, with his best race finish that of fourth in Belgium in August. It is understandably not the scenario Raikkonen would have envisaged when he opted to quit Lotus last season and rejoin Ferrari, the team he served between 2007 and 2009. In his absence, however, Lotus have gone backwards, leaving the 35-year-old Finn to appreciate his circumstances, even if they may not be to his liking. 'For sure I made the 100 per cent right decision (to join Ferrari),' said Raikkonen. 'Obviously the results haven't been what I wanted, or what the team wants, but that's how it goes. 'We have improved from where we started the season and there have been some better moments. Fernando Alonso has scored 141 points so far this season while Raikkonen has scored just 47 . Raikkonen finished Friday's practice session at the Circuit of the Americas sixth quickest, behind Alonso . 'But it's not been easy to fix some issues and get things exactly as you want. 'You end up having a small issue here, a small issue there and the end result is you pay a big price for it. But I'm happy to be here. 'Finishing anything after first place I'd rather be in a Ferrari than for any other team, so for sure I made the right decision.' Raikkonen finished Friday's practice session at the Circuit of the Americas sixth quickest, nearly 1.5 seconds behind Lewis Hamilton in his Mercedes, and just 0.350secs adrift of Alonso.
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Kimi Raikkonen adamant he made the right decision in returning to Ferrari .
Raikkonen has scored just 47 points from the 16 races .
Ferrari have struggled this season, but his old team Lotus have been worse .
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'Pregnant man' Thomas Beatie's divorce from his ex-wife is trapped in legal limbo while an Arizona judge decides if their marriage was ever valid in the first place because Thomas, who was born a woman, has given birth to three children. The transgender made headlines four . years ago when he became pregnant because his wife Nancy couldn't have children. The couple, who married in 2003, are now trying to get divorced and work out the custody issues for their three children, plus the division of property and spousal support. However the family court judge assigned to his case, Douglas Gerlach, is questioning the . legitimacy of the marriage, because after being legally declared male, . Beatie performed that most female of miracles - child birth. Family: Thomas Beatie was granted sole custody of his three children in May after footage emerged of his estranged wife Nancy being violent towards him . Divorcing: 'Pregnant Man' Thomas Beatie, right, is hoping to divorce his wife Nancy, left, but an Arizona judge is not convinced their marriage was legal in the first place . The validity of the Beatie's marriage now hangs in the balance, as same-sex marriage is forbidden in Arizona and the state doesn't recognize same-sex marriages performed in other states. Beatie was born a woman, Tracy Lehuanani Lagondino, in 1974 in Oahu, Hawaii. After undergoing male-hormone therapy he was legally allowed to change his birth certificate and driver’s license to say he is a man. He was also legally allowed to get married as a man. Judge Gerlach understands that, but as he wrote into the court record, 'In other words, it appears that, by any reasonable standard, (Beatie) was the biological mother of those children at the times they were born. As such, parties’ marriage was between a female and a person capable of giving birth, who later did so.' He asked the Arizona Attorney General’s Office for an opinion as to whether this was a valid marriage or a same-sex - and consequently invalid - marriage, but they declined the invitation to get involved. “I was surprised at the remarkable indifference I received,” Gerlach said in open court Friday. So it is up to him to make a decision that, however he rules, is likely to be taken to the Court of Appeals. Gerlach said he would reach a decision by early February. Beatie has called the judge's decision 'frustrating'. 'I live my life, I know who I am and . someone else's opinion, even though it is a Judge's opinion is not going . to change that. I am Thomas, I am husband, I am father, I am a man, hear . me roar,' he told Anderson Cooper last month. More babies: 'Hypothetically we have talked about starting a family together and we would have to check out our fertility options' Cooper pointed out that he could get the marriage annulled but Beatie, . though recognizing it would be the easiest thing to do says: 'My . marriage did happen and I was married to . Nancy for almost ten years, we paid taxes, we bought and sold homes, we . started a family together and I want that to be validated. It's being . challenged right now so if I back down from it we all lose.' His marriage to first wife Nancy reached a bitter end when footage of her appearing to violently attack her . husband, mishandle their children and destroy their computer emerged. He has previously claimed that Nancy was a violent alcoholic who would . attack him in the night and once punched him in the crotch in front of . the kids. In May, a judge gave Beatie temporary full custody over the couple’s three children. He . said: 'It's been a process. We physically separated back in March when I . filed for separation and there was a protective order but basically I . didn't wear my wedding ring for a year prior to that. Thomas Beatie shows off his pregnant stomach before becoming the first man to give birth . 'We . were supposed to finalize the divorce back a couple of months ago and . the judge is thinking it's out of jurisdiction and potentially could . rule it as same sex marriage.' Beatie has filed documents hoping to prove his marriage’s legitimacy, . highlighting that both his U.S. passport and his Hawaii birth . certificate list him as a man. When . he was in his 20s he began having testosterone injections, giving him . facial hair, a lower voice and altering his sexual organs. The . couple met shortly after Beatie began taking the testosterone. Nancy is . 11 years older than him and has two teenage daughters, Amber and Jen, . from a previous marriage. But at the . age of 28 she had a hysterectomy because of severe endometriosis - where . cells from the lining of the womb are found elsewhere in the body - so . she couldn’t have any more children. Thomas had already had a mastectomy to remove his breasts, and hormone treatment that gave him an outwardly male appearance. New start: Thomas Beatie and his new love Amber spoke to Anderson Cooper last month about their options for having a child together . But he chose to keep his female sexual organs so the couple could have children. They bought sperm from an anonymous donor and Beatie underwent artificial insemination. He . eventually fell pregnant with Susan in late 2007 and had his next two . children in quickly after, as he only had a short window of not taking . testosterone. He posed for a famous picture in 2007 which displayed him as heavily pregnant but with facial hair. He told Oprah on her show four years ago: 'I wanted to have a child one day. I didn't know how. It was just a dream.' The . couple has been open about their sex life, revealing on Oprah that the . testosterone had enlarged Beatie's clitoris. It grew to a small penis, . allowing him to have sex with his wife, he said. In . March, Beatie revealed he had filed for bankruptcy and was desperately . seeking a job to get his family off welfare handouts and pay his . $5,000-a-month mortgage. Last month Beatie appeared on Anderson Live with his new girlfriend Amber and said that they had not ruled out having babies together.
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Thomas Beatie and ex-wife Nancy are seeking a divorce to finalize their split and legally put their affairs in order .
The couple have three children, who Thomas gave birth too as he was born a woman .
The judge in their case has questioned if their marriage was ever legal under Arizona law because Beatie is transgender .
A verdict is not expected now until next February .
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This is the miraculous moment a driver survived being crushed between two big rigs in a nightmare pileup on an icy freeway. Kaleb Whitby, 27, stares out calmly from the mangled wreckage of his Chevy Silverado after the two semi-trucks smashed into each other on the I-84 in Oregon - with him in the middle. Despite his precarious position wedged between the two metal trailers, and with a steering column tight against his leg, Whitby emerged from the deathtrap almost entirely unscathed. Scroll down for video . Miracle: Kaleb Whitby, 27, posed for this photo in the twisted metal ruins of his Chevy Silverado after a horror pileup on Saturday near Baker City, Oregon . After the escape: The crumpled driver's cab of Whitby's pickup was left behind, above, after he was helped out . Caught in the middle: Whitby was left facing oncoming traffic - including the second truck - and feared dying in the crash . He posed for the photograph, taken by another truck driver invovled in the Saturday morning 50-driver pileup, which left 18-wheelers sprawled across the icy freeway outside Baker City, Oregon. Whitby described the terrifying moments before his unlikely survival to The Oregonian, saying he swerved to avoid a jackknifed truck - only to get crushed by another out of control big rig. He had been driving up an incline behind the vehicle for a while, Whitby said, but backed away because the fog was so thick. The next time he saw it, the big rig was splayed across the lanes of the freeway, leaving him nowhere to go. He tried to swerve round it, but hit the back end and was left sat on the road, side-on to approaching traffic. No wiggle room: The two big rigs, right, ended up practically sandwiched together in the pileup, which did not kill anybody . Smashed up: Whitby was caught between the two trucks pictured above in the icy, foggy and windy crash . Huge: As many as 50 vehicles, mostly trucks, were caught up in the wreckage . Next, he noticed a second big rig barreling towards him, with no way to avoid him. 'I just braced and hoped that everything would be all right', Whitby said. The next thing he knew, the crash was over and he was surrounded by broken glass and mangled metal - but was otherwise unharmed. Whitby, a farmer from Pasco, Washington, managed to cut himself free of his seatbelt, and move the steering column from his leg. He then shouted for help - and was rescued by Sergi Karplyuk, who drove the second truck in the crash. Whitby, now safe, posed for the incredible picture before getting out. After looking himself over, Whitby realized he was hardly injured at all. He told The Oregonian: 'I've got two Band-Aids on my right ring finger. And a little bit of ice on my left eye.' Twelve people were taken to hospital as a result of the pileup, one of whom was in critical condition Sunday. The freeway has since been re-opened. More than 20 cars piled up on I-76 in Philadelphia after freezing rain on Sunday morning . At least four people have died and dozens more injured after freezing rain hit the Northeast on Sunday morning. A pair of multi-car pileups - including one involving dozens of vehicles - in icy conditions on interstates in the Philadelphia area claimed at least three lives as authorities reported hundreds of crashes were reported across eastern Pennsylvania. A crash involving an estimated 30 to 50 vehicles on Interstate 76 early on Sunday killed one person, state police said. The crash blamed on 'flash-freezing' prompted closure of the highway in both directions, although one lane was reopened in the afternoon. Two other people were killed in a crash involving multiple vehicles on Interstate 476, police said. In Connecticut, police cited slippery conditions in a crash that killed an 88-year-old woman who struck a utility pole in New Haven. Splayed: This mail truck and another container vehicle were badly damaged on the Oregon road . Caved cab: Another busted big rig is pictured on the road amidst the devastation caused by the pileup . Cold: Icy conditions, as well as wind and fog, contributed to dangerous conditions on the I-84 .
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Kaleb Whitby, 27, was pictured in mangled wreckage of Chevy pickup truck .
Tried to avoid jackknifed big rig on Oregon's I-84, but was left facing traffic .
A second semi truck bore down on him and also got caught in the pileup .
But Whitby improbably survived - and posed for an incredible photograph .
Around 50 vehicles were involved in Saturday morning crash .
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By . Sam Webb . PUBLISHED: . 13:46 EST, 7 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 09:18 EST, 9 December 2013 . Plans for a phone with a transparent screen with touch screen technology on both the front and back have been revealed in what could be the next step forward in smartphone technology.Tech giant Samsung has filed a patent for a future transparent display that can be controlled by fingertip from both sides of the phone.Pictures of the device have been filed with the U.S. show the potential benefits of the technology, such as the user's finger not obscuring the screen when tapping on apps or dragging items around the screen. Great leap forward: Samsung have filed a patent for a phone with a transparent display that has touch screen technology on both sides . This image shows how icons can be selected from the rear of the phone . It could be especially effective for touch screen games. A tap on the rear of the phone could also bring up extra options or information about what is on the screen, such as text associated with a photo, such as comments on a photo posted on Facebook or Instagram.The user will also be able to fast forward, rewind and play video by using backside gestures without blocking their view of the footage. One of the pictures contained within the patent shows how taking a photo of what is displayed on the screen could be as simple as a quick dragging gesture. The back screen can be used for security measures . Users could even move top and bottom display items around independently which could be useful for photo manipulation or art apps. There is no indication when the phone will hit the market. The patent, uncovered by Patentbolt, was filed in the summer but contains no details on time frames. Samsung was not available for comment. This figure shows how the rear of the phone can be used to call up extra information or options without blocking the screen .
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Phone will let users control phone without obscuring view of display .
Technology could be used for video playback and gaming .
But Samsung's phone could be years away from hitting the market .
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Two sisters in Philadelphia who learned they would be mothers within a day of one another gave both gave birth to sons with the same synchronicity. Brigid Bink, a marketing manager at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant, went into labor first earlier this week. When her sister, Emily Whitaker, visited her in the hospital, she was prepared to follow her sister's lead. They shared a due date of September 15. Emily Whitaker, left, gave birth to her son Owen on Thursday morning, about 22 hours after her sister Brigid Bink had Jack. Over the preceding nine months, they shared the joys of becoming moms as their bellies slowly ballooned . Born Philadelphia Eagles fans, Owen and Jack will be very close first persons, their parents say, from playing sports together to visiting the shore . 'I brought my hospital bag thinking, "Okay this will be it,"' Whitaker told KGO-TV. Bink gave birth to her son Jack on Wednesday morning at 7:34am at Abington Memorial Hospital. He weighed seven pounds and six ounces. Whitaker, a middle school teacher, was sent home but went into labor soon after and about 22 hours later gave birth to her own son, Owen, who weighed eight pounds and nine ounces. 'When she called me this morning and told me she had a boy too, I just started bawling,' Bink said. . Colin Whitaker records the first moments of his son Owen, who was born weighing at eight pounds, nine ounces . 'It's still just so surreal - the whole thing is surreal,' she added. 'I can't believe I am a mom. I can't believe my little sister is a mom.' The sisters said they have big plans for the first cousins, who they expect to be very close. 'I see them playing sports together - going to school together,' Whitaker said. 'We got the starting shortstop and the second baseman for the Phillies in 2034 now,' said Lee Bink, Brigid's husband. It wasn't only their births that were in sync. Last winter, Bink found out she and she and her husband were going to have their first child. Whitaker and her husband Colin learned she was pregnant with their first the very next day. The sisters spent the next nine months learning how to be moms together as their bellies slowly ballooned. 'I don't think I could have done this pregnancy without her,' Whitaker said. Whitaker and her husband Colin learned they were pregnant also just one day after Bink and Lee her husband found out .
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Brigid Bink went into labor first and gave birth on Wednesday morning to her son Jack .
Her sister Emily Whitaker bore Owen the following morning .
The family says it has big plans for the first cousins, who were immediately swaddled in Philadelphia Eagles shirts .
'I see them playing sports together - going to school together,' Whitaker said .
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Every police force in England and Wales will be required to record anti-Muslim hate crimes and treat them as seriously as anti-Semitic attacks if the Tories win the next General Election, Theresa May has announced. In a move hailed by Islamic groups, Mrs May said that police will have to record Islamophobic attacks as a separate category, just as anti-Semitic crimes are recorded separately. At present some forces, including London’s Metropolitan Police, do record Islamophobic crimes as such. Other forces categorise them as hate crimes or specific offences such as assault or grievous bodily harm. Scroll down for video . Pledge: Home Secretary Theresa May said police will have to record Islamophobic attacks as a separate category . The new requirement will create the first accurate picture of the extent of Islamophobic hate crimes in Britain. Charities say there has been a steady rise of anti-Muslim hate crimes since 9/11. But after incidents such as the murder of Drummer Lee Rigby outside Woolwich barracks in 2013 and the Charlie Hebdo attacks in January, there are spikes in incidents in the UK, say experts. Mrs May made her pledge in a speech on counter-extremism to the Foundation for Peace in London just before Parliament was dissolved. She told the conference: ‘We will require police forces to record anti-Muslim crimes as well as anti-Semitic crimes.’ On the same day, Mrs May answered a question from Labour MP Kate Green in Parliament, who asked what steps the Government was taking to record anti-Muslim hate crimes. Mrs May said: ‘A Conservative government would require the police to be recording Muslim hate crime, anti-Muslim incidents, as well as anti-Semitic incidents.’ The Home Office does not publish national statistics for Islamophobic offences. The move by Mrs May, pictured here with Prime Minister David Cameron, has been hailed by Islamic groups . But in 2013-14, police recorded 44,480 hate crimes, an increase of five per cent over the same period the previous year across England and Wales. The vast majority – 37,484 – were race-hate crimes. Tell Mama, a Government-backed Islamic group, said that more than half of all the victims (54 per cent) of Islamophobic incidents are women, perhaps because they ‘appear more Islamic’, wearing the burka or headscarf. Tell Mama figures show that in the ten months after the Lee Rigby attack, a total of 734 incidents were reported to the organisation – an increase of 20 per cent on the same period the previous year. The most serious incident is believed to be the frenzied knife attack on Saudi Arabian student Nahid Almanea, 31, in Colchester, Essex, in June last year. Detectives believe she was attacked because she was wearing Islamic clothes. So far no one has been arrested for the murder. Mohammed Amin, a patron of Tell Mama, said of Mrs May’s speech: ‘This is a positive step forward.’ The Muslim Council of Britain has also welcomed the proposal. Iqbal Sacranie, the group’s former Secretary-General, said: ‘This change will bring parity between Muslim and Jewish groups.’
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All police would record anti-Muslim hate crimes if Tories win the Election .
Islamophobic attacks would be separate category, like anti-Semitic crimes .
At present some police forces, including Met, record these crimes as such .
Would create accurate picture of the extent of these hate crimes in Britain .
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Her face painted blue, a crown of leaves on her head and her arm transformed into a Biblical serpent this woman becomes an alternative Eve as she clutches a tempting apple. The Eden-inspired model is one of hundreds of people whose bodies have been turned into living canvases as they depict all things wild and wonderful in a brightly-coloured spectacle. The kalidoscopic models are all taking part in the annual Body Painting World Festival where hundreds of artists from across the globe converge for their yearly celebration. Would you Adam and Eve it? This model portrays both the Biblical serpent and an alternative Eve as she poses during the annual World Bodypainting Festival . Kaleidoscopic: The world's biggest bodypainting event takes place this weekend at Lake Woerthersee in Austria's southern Carinthia province . Strike a pose: The jamboree attracts hundreds of artists, and photographers, from across the globe . Weird and wonderful: This woman is transformed into a living canvas . The world's biggest bodypainting event, which takes place this weekend, kicked off in style yesterday at Lake Woerthersee in Austria's southern Carinthia province. Approximately 30,000 visitors are expected to flood into the Austrian town of Poertschach for a chance to see the amazing human works of art over the course of the three day extravaganza. The festival, now in its 16th year, is held in Austria annually - and competition is clearly as fierce as ever as contestants take their inspiration from nature, science fiction and tribal art. Living canvas: It took two artists to complete this candy shop-inspired design as they transformed their model with body paint . Work in progress: One artist affixes prosthetic make-up to her body to complete the nautical look . The design process: An artist paints a model during the annual World Bodypainting Festival in Poertschach . By land and sea: One brightly-painted model resembles a colourful bird, while another artist has taken inspiration from the sea with a nautical-themed costume . Scary stuff: Some of the impressive body art had a more sinister theme . From the Wild: Many artists were inspired by nature when choosing their creations . Drawing inspiration: Models were coated in an array of bright body paint, with some taking inspiration from science fiction or even sugary treats . Kaleidoscope of colour: One model clutches tubes of powdered paint to add even more colour to the proceedings . Painted ladies: While the model on the left was decorated with images from nature, the model on the right seemed to have been inspired by fast food . Other artists clearly had their dinner on their mind as they decorated models with images of foodstuffs and sweet treats. Vast feather headdresses, space-age tubing, prosthetic make-up, gems and jewels added the finishing touches. The 200 artists, who hail from 44 countries, are all vying to be crowned winner tomorrow and take home the prestigious World Award. Austria's stunning mountains and lakes provide the backdrop as the painted models proudly struck a pose. Out of this world: Both of these models looked as if they had come to Austria from outer space as they used alien costumes to complete their look . Read all about it: This model kept up to date with current affairs as he was coated in newspaper . Feeling fruity: Crowns of fruit topped off the models' looks as they posed for photographers . Crowning glory: The 200 artists, who hail from 44 countries, are all vying to be crowned winner and take home the prestigious World Award . Flight of the bumblebee: This model accessorised a helmet and spear with a bee design emblazoned on her chest . Temptation: This design also took its inspiration from the Biblical story of Adam and Eve .
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Hundreds of models and artists flock to the annual Body Painting World Festival .
Event, which takes place in Poertschach, Austria, now in its 16th year .
Artists take inspiration from nature and science fiction as they vie for the prestigious top prize .
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(CNN) -- A decade-long civil war wrecked Sierra Leone's economy, but now a juice business could provide a blueprint of how to add value to the country's exports. Although the civil war in Sierra Leone ended nine years ago, it is only now that the country's first significant value-added export has emerged. Africa Felix Juice produces juice concentrate from mango and pineapple farmed throughout Sierra Leone and exports it internationally. The company is working from a special economic zone, in the form of a 54-acre low-tax industrial park, built just outside of the capital Freetown. It is designed to attract foreign interest and although similar zones exist in other parts of Africa, this project is a first for Sierra Leone. The zone was set up by First Step -- a commercial subsidiary of the American NGO World Hope International. First Step discovered that many farmers in Sierra Leone struggle to turn their fresh produce into money and that a lot of fruit ends up unsold or left rotting on the ground. Sierra Leone's Deputy Minister of Information Sheka Tarawalie admits: "We have fruits like mangos, pineapples all over the country, but they are being wasted, and there is not much value added to these resources." First Step's industrial park is intended to house factories that can process Sierra Leone's natural resources, rather than simply exporting them. Richard Schroeder, First Step's CEO, sees the industrial park as a logical solution to help develop new business in the country. He says: "We're just making it possible for businesses to easily establish and employ people to start processing resources locally instead of what always happens in Africa, which is, it's seen as a source of natural resources. "Natural resources are dug up, brought some place else, cut down or taken out of the water, and processed and sent back to Africa or other places in the world, when the real value addition is, where jobs are created, where income is created -- where an economy can really find its engine." There are stringent selection criteria for potential tenants to obtain a plot in the industrial park. "There has to be a commitment to not only the financial bottom line," says Schroeder. "We're looking for tenants that also are passionate and care about their impact in terms of social impact and environmental impact." Africa Felix Juice is now the first tenant and enjoys a three-year tax holiday, along with security, electricity and water supplies. Majority-owned by First Step, Africa Felix was founded by Claudio Scotto. Its mission is, "to become a pioneer and leader in the Fairtrade tropical fruit juice concentrate market in the EU." It pays farmers about $250 to $300 for each tree harvest--- a substantial jump from the $15 they would get at the local market. Africa Felix Juice eventually plans to directly employ close to 100 Sierra Leoneans and provide a market for nearly 1,000 small farmers throughout the country. "We're targeting the fair-trade niche of the business, obviously, because Sierra Leone has a difficult past," says Claudio. "A fruit juice coming from Sierra Leone, we think, will have a very good impact into European consumers that can now choose something tangible coming from a place that they were thinking is only war, famine and death," he added. Although special economic zones have been successful in Asia, some analysts have voiced concern that they won't work in countries without a well-developed labor force or infrastructure. But with Africa Felix Juice up and running, and farmers receiving increased profits, the success of the project has not gone unnoticed. "First Step is doing something that is historic, is unheard of in contemporary history in our country," says Tarawalie. "And they're changing the lives of people in the sense that they can see development taking place in our own lifetime." He says he hopes Africa Felix Juice and the special economic zone will act as a catalyst for potential investors, demonstrating that, "we have created an enabling environment for companies to come in and do their business without hindrance."
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Special economic zone is a first for Sierra Leone .
It is intended to house factories that can process Sierra Leone's natural resources .
Africa Felix Juice is the first tenant and enjoys a three-year tax holiday .
| 4,109 | 214 |
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Title: Innovative Solar-Powered Electric Buses Set to Revolutionize Urban Transportation
In an inspiring leap towards sustainable city transport, the urban landscape of [City Name] is gearing up for a major transformation as the introduction of solar-powered electric buses is imminent. These zero-emission vehicles are expected to hit the roads by early next year, significantly reducing carbon footprint and improving air quality in this bustling metropolis.
The new fleet of buses will be equipped with advanced photovoltaic panels integrated into their roofs, enabling them to harness the sun's energy during daylight hours for propulsion. The buses will also feature state-of-the-art battery technology capable of storing excess solar energy for use at night or in periods of reduced sunlight.
[City Name]'s Mayor, [Mayor's Name], emphasized the importance of embracing green technology, stating, "We are committed to creating a cleaner, healthier city for our residents and future generations. The introduction of these solar-powered electric buses is not just an investment in transportation infrastructure; it's an investment in our planet."
In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 1,500 tons per year, the solar-powered electric buses are expected to save around [Amount] million dollars in fuel costs over their lifetime.
The solar-powered electric bus project is part of a larger initiative aimed at transitioning [City Name] into a model green city. Plans include installing more charging stations for electric vehicles, expanding bike lanes, and implementing stricter emissions standards for public transportation.
Stay tuned for further updates on this exciting transformation in urban transport!
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The city of [City Name] is set to revolutionize its urban transportation system with the introduction of solar-powered electric buses. Equipped with photovoltaic panels on their roofs and advanced battery technology, these zero-emission vehicles will harness solar energy during daylight hours and store excess energy for use at night or in low sunlight periods. The mayor, [Mayor's Name], has emphasized the importance of adopting green technology as a commitment to creating a cleaner and healthier city.
The solar-powered electric buses are expected to significantly reduce carbon footprint by approximately 1,500 tons per year and save around [Amount] million dollars in fuel costs over their lifetime. This initiative is part of a larger plan to transition [City Name] into a model green city, which includes installing more charging stations for electric vehicles, expanding bike lanes, and implementing stricter emissions standards for public transportation. The project marks an exciting transformation in urban transport and further updates will be provided as developments occur.
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By . Fiona Macrae . PUBLISHED: . 21:02 EST, 21 November 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 21:03 EST, 21 November 2012 . It is often said that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. But in the parrot world, it may be a way of striking up a conversation. Scientists believe that parakeets found in the Costa Rican forests mimic each other to begin 'discussions' about creating new flocks and who will be boss. 'Discussions': Scientists believe orange-fronted parakeets mimic fellow birds to initiate 'conversations' The theory comes from a study of orange-fronted parakeets that live in constantly changing flocks. University of Copenhagen researchers showed that the birds, which are green with orange foreheads, are more likely to respond to a call that sounds like their own. They also reply more quickly. This suggests that mimicry is used to initiate 'conversations', the journal PLoS ONE reports. In the wild, these may be negotiations on the joining and merging of flocks. Males may also use the process to establish the pecking order of the new flock, with the willing mimic perhaps more likely to be sub-ordinate. Researcher Thorsten Balsby said: 'It might mean a negotiation on dominance and who is going to lead the fused flock.' Mimicry: The orange fronted parakeets are found in the forests of Costa Rica . Dr Balsby believes that some other species of parrot use mimicry for a similar purpose. However, parrot owners should take note. The . researcher says that as pet birds are usually taught the sounds they . mimic, any speech cannot be taken as an attempt to initiate conversation . with their owner. And . while orange-fronted parakeets excel at mimicking members of their own . species, they are poor at replicating the human voice.
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Researchers studied parakeets that live in constantly changing flocks in Costa Rican forests .
The birds use mimicry to initiate 'conversations' on the joining and merging of flocks, they say .
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(CNN) -- Ricardo Benejam is a born-and-bred New Yorker. He grew up with a view of the World Trade Center from the window of his childhood apartment in lower Manhattan. On September 11, 2001, he was a freshman in high school when the twin towers fell. "I had actually blurted out, 'We'll be going to war,'" he recalls. "You knew it wasn't an accident. That was my first thought at 14 [years old]." He witnessed the devastation firsthand as he walked home that day. "I saw cars that were littered with dust," he said. "I saw people in business suits that were littered in dust." Before the attack, Benejam was considering a career in law enforcement or the military. His father, who died of a heart attack in 2002, worked briefly for the New York City Police Department, and his uncle served in the Navy during the Vietnam War. In 2006, the day before his 19th birthday, Benejam was sworn into the U.S. Army. "One of the main reasons was a promise that I kept to my father that I would enlist," Benejam said, "and the second reason was the 9/11 attacks. I definitely wanted to serve as a result of that." Benejam was stationed in Ft. Drum, New York, where he trained as a human resources specialist. He first deployed to Afghanistan for three months in 2007. He went back in 2009, this time staying a full year. "I did my job," said Benejam. "I did what I was sent to do and I supported those guys in my unit." In 2011, his service ended. He set his sights on continuing his education and working, but coming home wasn't easy. "The first week or so, I'd be waking up and I'm like, 'I'm going to be late for formation,'" remembers Benejam. "And I'm like, 'There's no more formation.'" Families face more challenges when military parents return . Benejam credits the work ethic he learned in the Army with his success at home, saying, "I think what actually helped me transition a little bit better is that I started school right after I got out." He is just two semesters away from getting his bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Monroe College in the Bronx. Benejam visits ground zero several times a week now, not just to pay respect to his fellow veterans or to reflect on the events that inspired him to serve his country. He works at the 9/11 Memorial. "Working down there, it's like you're continuing to serve because you're telling the story of what happened and what was there before," he said. Part of what makes his job so special is the bond he shares with other veterans visiting the site. "You meet a veteran, and it's almost like seeing a brother or sister," Benejam said. "A lot of us have deployed (as a result of) what happened on 9/11." On the day CNN visited Benejam at the 9/11 Memorial, he was answering visitors' questions about the "Survivor Tree." "It's the only tree that actually survived the initial attacks," he explains. "It actually survived not only the attacks itself but already two nor'easters and two hurricanes." Benejam, too, is a survivor. He's thriving in his post-military life. When CNN asked what advice he would offer to other veterans coming home, his reply was reflective and hopeful, much like memorial where he works. "It may start off rocky, but, you know, there's light at the end of the tunnel. Just stay positive, and good things will happen."
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Ricardo Benejam was born and raised in New York City and saw the twin towers fall .
Benejam enlisted in the Army and was deployed to Afghanistan in 2007 and 2009 .
He now works at the 9/11 Memorial as a visitor services host .
Benejam: It's like you're continuing to serve because you're telling the story .
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Voters 'don't trust politicians'
Eight out of 10 voters do not trust politicians to tell the truth, a new poll conducted for the BBC suggests.
And 87% of the 1,000 adults quizzed by ICM for BBC News 24 said politicians did not deliver what they promised. The poll comes after Foreign Secretary Jack Straw predicted trust would be "the key choice" at the next election. Both the Tories and the Lib Dems are keen to emphasise a perceived lack of trust in Tony Blair, following his claims over Iraqi weapons.
But according to the BBC poll, 61% said the issue of trust made no difference to whether or not they would vote at the next election, widely expected on 5 May. The poll also looked at what lay behind the lack of trust in politicians. Some 87% said politicians did not keep the promises they made before elections, while 92% said they never gave "a straight answer". Just under three-quarters of respondents (73%) said politicians had shown themselves to be dishonest too often.
Mr Straw told activists in Blackburn on Thursday that voters would have to decide at the next election which party "best deserves" their "future trust". "That in the end is the key choice at the next election."
He acknowledged that the public had lost faith in Labour, but suggested it could persuade people to "reinvest their trust with us" if the party could overcome Tory attempts to spread cynicism in politics. The Conservatives are keen to highlight the trust issue. During his response to Gordon Brown's Budget statement on Tuesday, Michael Howard compared the chancellor's figures to the prime minister's claims about Iraq's weapons of mass destruction.
The Lib Dems are also keen to highlight the trust issue, with Charles Kennedy has claiming voters had a "fundamental lack of trust in the prime minister". And the Green Party unveiled a billboard opposite the Palace of Westminster accusing the government of lying over the Iraq war.
Former education secretary Estelle Morris told BBC News 24 that there was a "real problem of trust" between the public and the politicians. She said she did not feel her own colleagues could be trusted, but suggested the "three-cornered relationship" between the press, politicians and the public had a hand in the issue. The public was often turned off by sitting on the sidelines in "the battle of words" between the politician and the journalist, she added. Lib Dem foreign affairs spokesman Menzies Campbell said the Iraq war had hit trust in politicians hard. "Issues of war and peace, life and death do have a very damaging effect on the credibility of politicians". Martin Bell, who won the Tatton seat from Tory Neil Hamilton on anti-corruption platform, said politicians often failed to see themselves as others did. "We need public figures we trust to tell the truth and who can see themselves as others see them."
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But according to the BBC poll, 61% said the issue of trust made no difference to whether or not they would vote at the next election, widely expected on 5 May.Lib Dem foreign affairs spokesman Menzies Campbell said the Iraq war had hit trust in politicians hard.The Lib Dems are also keen to highlight the trust issue, with Charles Kennedy has claiming voters had a "fundamental lack of trust in the prime minister".Eight out of 10 voters do not trust politicians to tell the truth, a new poll conducted for the BBC suggests.The poll comes after Foreign Secretary Jack Straw predicted trust would be "the key choice" at the next election.The Conservatives are keen to highlight the trust issue.Former education secretary Estelle Morris told BBC News 24 that there was a "real problem of trust" between the public and the politicians.The poll also looked at what lay behind the lack of trust in politicians.Mr Straw told activists in Blackburn on Thursday that voters would have to decide at the next election which party "best deserves" their "future trust".
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By . Daily Mail Reporter . The woman who police say viciously attacked a New Jersey mother in front of her two-year-old son has turned herself into authorities. Latia Harris, 25, surrendered to police on Monday night in relation to last week's brutal that was captured on video. Authorities say they were 'close to capturing' the fugitive over the weekend in Philadelphia. Surrendered: Latia Harris, a South Jersey woman who police say attacked a mother in a field in Salem County turned herself in on Monday evening. Harris had been eluding capture for six days . Caught: According to New Jersey State Police, the attorney for Latia Harris called them on Monday saying Harris would surrender within an hour . Harris faces two counts of aggravated assault and two counts of making terroristic threats. The 4'9" tall, 100 pound Ferreira says the attack left her with a broken nose and a mild concussion. Police say Harris is the attacker seen in the video wearing a red McDonald's uniform. The fight began because investigators believe Harris thought Ferreira, a one-time coworker, had spread rumors about a romantic relationship between Harris and a work supervisor. Horrifying aftermath: Catherine Ferreira, 27, suffered a broken nose, two . black eyes and a mild concussion, but she said she could have been dead . had her assailant struck her in the right spot . Team effort: Salem City Police Department partnered with the New Jersey State Police Fugitive Unit and the United States Marshall¿s New Jersey/New York Regional Fugitive Task-force in an effort to locate Harris . Bystanders: The attack was even more shocking given that many people simply stood around and videoed the fight with their cellphones instead of trying to prevent it from escalating . Harris thought the revelations could jeopardize her job. On the video the Harris is seen kicking Ferreira while she is laying on the ground and spitting at her. Police managed to obtained a copy of the video depicting the attack before it was removed from Facebook. The . graphic footage showed the McDonald's employee pounding Ferreira and being punched and kick her at least 20 times. Incredibly, Ferreira's two-year-old son was in the middle of it all, trying to intervene by kicking and screaming at Harris. ‘Mommy!’ the little boy cried out. You better get your son before I kick him in the [expletive] face too,’ she screams. The beating ends with the McDonald's staffer spitting on Ferreira lying bleeding on the ground. Before . she walks away, the woman warns the brutalized young mother: 'It's not . over... you almost made me lose my job… stupid tramp.' Police officers were called to the scene just after 7pm after receiving reports of a woman covered in blood. They found the 27-year-old bleeding . profusely from her face and acting disoriented and confused. She was . taken to The Memorial Hospital of Salem County to be treated for injuries to her face. What has caused uproar is that fact several people witnessed the attack but did nothing except record it on their cell phones. The video of the brutal beating went . viral, yet none of the bystanders . seen in the footage came to Ferreira’s aid as she was being brutalized . by the much larger woman. Little hero: Ferreira said her sole protector during the beating was her 2-year-old son, Xzavion, who threw himself on Latia Harris . Caught: Latia Harris, 25, is in jail and now facing charges of assault and making terroristic threats . '[It's outrageous] that it occurred . in front of a 2-year-old and because people didn't intervene. The video . is clear, you can see people not looking at the fight itself but looking . at their camera looking at the fight,' said Chief John Pelura, Salem Police. Meanwhile, Jim Burlaga, the owner and operators of the McDonald's where Harris worked, released the following statement: . 'I . am aware of the incident involving one of my employees earlier this . week. I am extremely disturbed by this kind of behavior and it goes . against the values and standards that I expect from my employees in my . restaurants. This employee will . not be serving customers pending this important police investigation and . I'm fully cooperating with the local police in this matter.' Harris has not shown up for work following the incident. Last week, just days after the assault, Ms Ferreira said she was shocked that no one besides her toddler came to her rescue. Appearing before the cameras last Friday she could be seen with a badly swollen face and two black eyes. The video shows her being thrown to the ground like a rag doll and repeatedly being punched in the face. 'I think it’s messed up no one came to my rescue,' Ferreira told NBC Philadelphia. The only person to intervene on behalf of the woman was her 2-year-old, Xzavion Ortiz. ‘I became so much closer to my son . because he didn't care what was going on,’ she said. ‘He wasn't afraid. He just wanted to defend his mom.’ Idle gossip: Ferreira (left) said her feud with Harris (right) started a couple of weeks ago when she dropped by the McDonald's where she once worked to chat with her friends and mentioned that Harris had a relationship with a manager . Different persona: Harris also goes by the name Alima Zawjatul Abdul Sabur . Family matters: The 25-year-old has two young children (pictured) and a large family in Philadelphia . Ms Ferreira explained to NJ.com that she used to work at the same Salem McDonald’s as Harris. Two . or three weeks ago, she stopped by the eatery to chat with some of her . former colleagues, and at one point Ferreira made an off-hand remark . about Latia Harris' alleged romantic relationship with her supervisor. According to Ferreira, the 25-year-old . overheard her comment and became upset. In the weeks that followed, . Harris kept calling her and saying that she could get fired over the bit . of gossip. Last Tuesday, . Ferreira said she was walking home with her son at around 7pm when . Harris ambushed her in a clearing behind the McDonald’s and smacked her. Face-off: Police in New Jersey have obtained this cell phone video showing a female McDonald's worker dressed in a burgundy uniform confronting a young mother in a wooded area in Salem . Pummeled: The attacker, identified as Latia Harris, pulled the 27-year-old woman to the ground in front of her 2-year-old son and proceeded to punch her in the face about 20 times . 'Monstrous': The victim's son tried to intervene by repeatedly kicking her attacker in the legs until Harris threatened to kick the 2-year-old in the face (right) No mercy: The assailant kicked the mother in the back as she lay on the grass in a fetal position with witnesses standing around her . The 4-foot-9, 10-pound . mother tried to reason with Harris and informed her that she did not . want to fight, but the woman ignored her pleas, hurling Ferreira' to the . ground. ‘I could have been . dead right now, had she hit me in the right spot it would have been . over, over nothing,’ Ferreira tearfully said. ‘McDonald’s isn’t worth . it, a guy isn’t worth it.’ The . people who witnessed the attack and did nothing to stop it have been . condemned by local police and the media, but Ferreira cautioned against . demonizing them, stressing in the interview that they should not be seen . as ‘monsters.’ At the time, when speaking of her attacker, Ferreira broke down . in tears, saying she felt sorry for her because the woman has two . children. Ominous warning: The 25-year-old allegedly threatened to shoot the victim as payback for nearly getting her fired from McDonald's before she spat on her and walked away .
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Latia Harris, 25, turned herself in around on Monday evening .
She allegedly attacked Catherine Ferreira in front of her 2-year-old son last Tuesday .
Harris now faces charges of assault and making terroristic threats .
Catherine Ferreira, 27, suffered a broken nose, two black eyes and a mild concussion .
Video of the beating was recorded by a bystander behind a McDonald's in Salem, New Jersey .
The feud started a couple of weeks ago when Harris overheard Ferreira gossiping with her McDonald's friends about her workplace romance .
Harris, a mother of two, called Ferreira several times telling her she could lose her job over the rumors .
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LOS ANGELES, California (CNN) -- The romantic comedy "New In Town" puts co-stars Renee Zellweger and Harry Connick Jr. at odds through most of the film. But behind the camera, the story was completely different, the pair told CNN. Harry Connick Jr. and Renee Zellweger enjoyed working with one another on the set of "New In Town." "I had a great time. [Connick is] such a nice guy. He shows up on set and makes everyone laugh, and it's just a nice day at work," Zellweger said. Connick agreed, saying the off-camera friendship with his co-star made the on-camera experience an enjoyable one. "Renee is the type of person that I got to know quickly. Well, I became friends with her quickly. She's a very mysterious, wonderful young lady," Connick said. Directed by Jonas Elmer, the film follows Zellweger as Lucy Hill, a Miami, Florida-based corporate shark who travels to a small Minnesota town to oversee the closing of a small factory. Upon arrival, Lucy clashes with the factory's union representative, Ted Mitchell, played by Connick. As the two begin to understand one another, their icy relationship soon melts into romance. But the romance between Lucy and Ted is only one side of the story. Zellweger said she was instantly drawn to the role for its humor. "I loved the physical comedy part of Lucy Hill's experience. I laughed out loud when I imagined the scenarios, and I could not wait to go and play around with that," she said, "I wanted to go to work every day and laugh, and I did." Famous for her roles in such comedies as "Nurse Betty" and "Bridget Jones's Diary," Zellweger is no stranger to the comedic scene. With "New In Town," the actress was eager to once again play a part that would make audiences laugh. "I think the laughter, that's therapeutic," she said. At a time when the country is struggling through a financial recession, Connick said, "New In Town" provides that necessary therapy. While the film centers on the troubles of one rural American town, it showcases a dilemma familiar to the entire country. "I think there's a good balance of what people are really feeling right now, and you walk away from this movie with a real feeling of hope and like, 'We're going to be all right,'" he said. "New In Town" opens in theaters everywhere this Friday. CNN's Jack Hannah contributed to this story.
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Zellweger and Connick became friends quickly on the "New In Town" set .
"I wanted to go to work every day and laugh, and I did," Zellweger says .
The film offers hope during the country's hard times, Connick says .
"New In Town" opens in theaters everywhere this Friday .
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(CNN) -- Worsening violence amid anti-government protests in Egypt has led western governments to step up their travel advice. Yesterday, at least 23 people were killed, and hundreds injured, in clashes between supporters and opponents of Egyptian President Mohamed Morsy at Cairo University. Since then, the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office is recommending "against all but essential travel to Egypt" except certain coastal resorts, where unrest is less evident. Previously, the FCO advised travelers only to steer clear of "all demonstrations and large gatherings" within the country. The U.S. State Department continues to advise against all "non-essential" travel to or within Egypt. Tourism minister quits . Egypt's tourism industry suffered another blow Monday with the resignation of the country's tourism minister, Hisham Zazour. Zazour handed in his resignation along with five other ministers, including the foreign minister, over the violence sweeping the country. The present crisis was the last straw for a man with one of the toughest jobs in tourism. He had threatened to quit last month over the appointment as Luxor governor of a member of a political group associated with a massacre in the city 15 years ago that killed 58 tourists. Tourism vital . The pyramids of Giza, the Nile and the coastal resorts of Sharm-el-Sheikh are among the world's most popular tourist attractions. The industry is vital to Egypt's economy. Tourism employs around 10% of the Egyptian workforce and brought in $10 billion in 2012, according to UNWTO figures. However, anti-government protests beginning in 2011, part of the revolutionary movement sweeping the Middle East, have hit tourism hard. Visitor numbers have fallen by almost one-third, from 14 million in 2010 to 10.5 million last year. Will travelers still go? Should travelers still visit Egypt? There have been bargains aplenty as travel operators have tried to woo back tourists to what has long been one of the world's most popular sun-sea-and-sights destinations. Yet official travel advice is hardening -- while stopping short in all cases of advising against all travel or assisting foreigners to leave Egypt. In addition to deaths at public demonstrations, the British government notes reports of "more than forty rapes and sexual assaults of Egyptian and foreign women." Coastal resorts "safe" Yet the Foreign and Commonwealth Office exempts "resorts on the Red Sea in South Sinai" and certain mainland resorts from its advice against travel. It continue to state that "most visits" to Egypt are trouble-free. It is true that, as protests have surged and dwindled over the past two years, violence has largely been confined to Cairo and other cities, rather than the coastal resorts popular with package holiday tourists. "July and August traditionally see lower numbers of holidaymakers traveling to Egypt than the rest of the year," the Association of British Travel Agents told CNN Travel Tuesday. "At this stage, outside of Cairo it is very much business as usual, and holiday makers are enjoying their holidays without interruption." U.S. citizen dies . In stronger advice than Britain's, the U.S. government recommends against all "non-essential" travel to Egypt. A U.S. citizen, Andrew Pochter, 21, died after being stabbed in the chest at a protest in the city of Alexandria last Friday. Political unrest in Egypt is "likely to continue in the near future," the State Department says. Whatever the political outlook for the country, its vital tourism industry is likely to take years to recover from its violent recent history.
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Advisories strengthened after more protest deaths .
Tourism minister quits Monday .
Visitor numbers have fallen by one-third since 2011 .
Resorts "safe", says Britain; don't go, says US .
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Washington (CNN) -- U.S. troops in Okinawa will now be on curfew after the arrest of two U.S. sailors accused of raping a local woman, the commander of U.S. forces in Japan said Friday. Lt. Gen. Salvatore Angelella also apologized Friday in a statement announcing the curfew. "I want to personally apologize for the grief and trauma the victim has endured," the statement said. Read more: Small U.S. base is giant issue in U.S.-Japan relations . The curfew restricts military personnel to the base, a personal home or hotel between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. Police in Okinawa identified the detained sailors as U.S. Navy Seaman Christopher Daniel Browning and Petty Officer Skyler Dozierwalker of Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth in Texas. The two men, both 23, are alleged to have raped a Japanese woman early Tuesday, leaving her with a neck injury, police said. They were taken into custody later that day. The incident has prompted a women's group in Okinawa to call for more restrictions on what U.S. military personnel can do when off-base. The issue of violent crimes, especially rapes, by U.S. troops in Japan has divided the two countries for decades. It came to a peak in 1995 when a U.S. sailor and two U.S. Marines were convicted of raping a 12-year-old girl. Tens of thousands of Okinawans took to the streets at the time demanding that the United States leave the island south of Japan's main islands. In that case, the U.S. military at first refused to turn the suspects over to Japanese authorities. But in the most recent case, the suspects were in Japanese custody almost immediately. Read more: U.S.-Japan deal withdraws 9,000 Marines from Okinawa . The alleged attack took place two months after a U.S. Marine was arrested, accused of assaulting and molesting a woman in Naha, the capital of Okinawa. Relations between the U.S. military and the people of Okinawa have already been stressed in recent months over the U.S. Marine Corps' deployment of MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft to a base on the island. Some Okinawa residents are concerned because the Osprey has had a reputation for crashing. The Okinawan community has long been against the presence of the U.S. military, which recently announced that thousands of Marines will be moved to a base in Guam.
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Two U.S. sailors were arrested this week, accused of raping a local woman .
"I want to personally apologize" for the victim's grief and trauma, U.S. commander says .
The issue of violent crimes, especially rapes, by U.S. troops in Japan has divided the nations .
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By . Liz Hull . UPDATED: . 04:40 EST, 6 March 2012 . John Iveson, 36, disappeared 'without trace' just weeks before the birth of his sixth child - a son he has never met . A wealthy businessman was murdered and his body possibly fed to pigs following a row over a house sale, a court heard yesterday. John Iveson, 36, disappeared ‘without trace’ just weeks before the birth of his sixth child - a son he has never met. Although a £30,000 police reward was offered for information on his whereabouts, Mr Iveson has never been found. Yesterday agricultural workers Paul Billington, 40, and Mark Done, 47, went on trial accused of murdering Mr Iveson more than five years ago. Chester Crown Court heard Billington, a pig farmer and father-of-four, owed Mr Iveson ‘tens of thousands of pounds’ from the sale of his detached home. Mr Iveson, described as a ‘wheeler-dealer’ and ‘hard-man,’ had been threatening and calling Billington up to 20 times a day to demand his cash. Andrew Thomas, QC, prosecuting, said Billington had become desperate because Mr Iveson was taking every penny from him and he was struggling to make ends meet. With the help of poultry farmer, Done, the pair killed Mr Iveson and got rid of his body on his farm, possibly feeding the property developer’s remains to pigs, the barrister added. ‘As farmers they had access to vehicles to move the body and land on which the remains could be disposed,’ Mr Thomas said. ‘Paul Billington used to incinerate pig carcasses on his land. He had macerating equipment to chop materials for feed. ‘Even pigs themselves have been known to eat human remains. In short, although we do not know what happened to John Iveson, a pig farmer would be very well placed to dispose of a body without a trace.’ The jury was told that in 2006 Iveson agreed to sell his £325,000 family home, in Riverbank Close, Nantwich, Cheshire, to Billington. He wanted to use the cash to buy land at Mile House Farm, a £550,000 farmhouse, in Worleson, near Nantwich, which he already part owned. But Billington, of Rossett, near Wrexham, north Wales, struggled to find the cash and, in January the following year, Mr Iveson began threatening him that he needed his money. Agricultural workers Paul Billington, . 40, left, and Mark Done, 47, right, went on trial accused of murdering Mr Iveson more . than five years ago. Both deny the charge . ‘By the time of his disappearance John Iveson was demanding a very large sum of money from Mr Billington,’ Mr Thomas said. ‘He wanted the money within a matter of days. He was telephoning Mr Billington up to 20 times a day and making threats. Mark Done was involved in the financial arrangements - he was a friend of both men. ‘Mr Iveson treated Mr Billington contemptuously. He had bullied him all the time he had known him. Paul Billington was becoming ill with worry. John Iveson was taking every spare penny he could get, leaving his own family without enough to pay their own bills.’ Mr Iveson was last seen at around 6.30pm on January 30 2007 when Billington turned up at his home to collect him for a meeting. Earlier in the day he had been making arrangements to go out and celebrate his younger sister, Lucy’s 21st birthday, the court heard. Despite several mistaken ‘sightings’ of Mr Iveson over the past five years it is ‘inconceivable’ that he simply walked away from his life, Mr Thomas added. Billington's farm in North Wales. Prosecutors told the court the pair killed Mr Iveson and got rid of his body on Billington's farm possibly feeding the property developer's remains to pigs . At the time of his disappearance his wife, Julie, 35, was heavily pregnant with the couple’s sixth child, a son, named Ryan, who was born on March 12. She reported him missing, sparking a wide-ranging police investigation, including an appeal on the BBC’s Missing Live. Mr Iveson worked on big contracts demolishing old warehouses and selling reclaimed materials on for profit. He topped up his income by dealing in imported cigarettes. Mr Thomas said Mr Iveson’s life was a ‘complicated’ one. ‘He was something of a wheeler dealer, a rogue, a criminal who had spent 18 months in prison for violent disorder and wounding,’ Mr Thomas said. ‘He was generous to his wife - he was never short of money and bought her a BMW 4x4 car as a birthday present. ‘However, he had a short temper and there were times when he could be violent. ‘John Iveson had a number of affairs and one-night stands. He used to visit a strip club and massage parlour. But whether the victim is a saint or sinner, murder is murder.’ The case is reminiscent of the Thomas Harris novel and film, Hannibal, in which serial killer Hannibal Lecter’s only surviving victim attempts to capture him and feed him to pigs. The body of undercover British soldier Captain Robert Nairac was also reportedly ground up and fed to pigs after her was beaten and murdered by the Provisional IRA in 1977. Billington and Done, of Nantwich, Cheshire, deny murder. The case continues. Sorry we are unable to accept comments for legal reasons.
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John Iveson disappeared 'without trace' weeks before son's birth .
Pig farmer Paul Billington 'owed Mr Iveson 'tens of thousands of pounds'
Mr Iveson 'had been calling Billington up to 20 times a day demanding cash'
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It has been declared the world's longest pub crawl and two friends have celebrated in the appropriate way - with a pint. Peter Hill, 59, and John Drew, 61, said cheers as they stopped at their 18,000th pub after a 30-year tour and vowed to carry on boozing 'until our livers give out.' The group - who call themselves the Black Country Ale Tairsters - started visiting different watering holes in 1984 after becoming bored of always visiting the same pub. Beer-loving friends raised a toast on the weekend after visiting their 18,000th bar in world's longest pub crawl . Peter Hill is one of the founders of The Black Country Ale Tairsters (left) pictured with his mates (right) Along with friends, they have drunk in a different pub every week since then - beginning back when a pint cost just 64p. Girls are banned from tagging along with them on their trips, which have taken in bars in every county in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The gang always wear homemade uniforms on each night out made of waistcoats fashioned from old beer towels. Peter Hill (second left) and dad Joe Hill (centre in red top) in Railway Train Pub in the West Midlands in 1988 . John Drew, Joe Hill, Karl Bradley and Peter Hill visiting 8000th pub Pavilion in Birmingham in 1998 . They also hold the record for being the first to travel to pubs around the entire coastline of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Last year they completed a seven-year quest to visit every pub in Wales after stopping off at all 3,905 of them. They have also been to every boozer in 11 Midlands counties and have driven over 250,000 miles during their monster trip, during which they've downed at least 36,000 pints. But there will be one notable absentee from the celebrations after Peter's dad Joe, who had been with the pint-supping pair throughout their adventure, died in April at the age of 83. The group visited their 5000th pub in 1993 (left) and marked their landmark 10,000th visit in Birmingham in 2001 (right) The Black Country Ale Tairsters leave their calling card at every pub they visit . Founding member Peter said they came up with the idea after becoming bored with drinking in the same pub each week. Machinist Peter, his retired dad Joe and scaffolder John then decided that the 800 Banks's pubs they visited weren't enough so embarked on the challenge to conquer every pub in Wales. Speaking from the landmark 18,000th pub at The Saxon Penny in Lichfield, Staffs., Peter said: 'It's fabulous that we have made it to here. 'I think we'll stay at this pub for a while yet, but we may squeeze in number 18,001 later on this evening. 'If I had to have a beer of choice I would just ask for any real ale to be honest. It's hard to think of a hobby which is so much fun. 'We are just going to keep going until our livers give out, or at least something gives out. The Black Country Ale Tasters at Powis Arms in Pool Quay, Dorset. The group has drunk in a different boozer every week since 1984 . The world's most epic pub crawl began with this map - and the dream of visiting bars in all counties in Britain . 'Although it may be a big surprise to people, we're not massive drinkers. We just love pubs and everything about them. 'We have our own score cards which we fill in and we write the number of the pub on the card and ask the landlord to sign the book we have which has information in from every bar we go to. 'We also keep a record of the pubs we go to by taking a photo of the pub, inside and out, and make a note of anything special about the place. 'It turned from a bit of fun to a serious hobby. I'll be doing this for as long as I can - I intend to visit every pub I can. 'Although I'll soon be 60 and I wonder where all the years have gone. 'We would never live long enough to have a drink in every pub in England. It's taken us seven years to visit 3,905 pubs in Wales. 'Nowadays, I try to limit myself to 1,500 pints a year. If it's a cider and lager pub we'll just have a swift half. In 2010, The Black Country Ale Tasters marked their 15,000th pub visit at the Watermill in Kidderminster . 'In every pub, we ask for a £1 donation, with the money going to the children's ward at Sandwell Hospital.' Around 20 tipplers were originally in the group but now only two remain including Peter, from West Bromwich, West Mids. Every pub they visit is rated, photos are taken and information is noted down and Black Country Ale Tairsters (BATs) approval is a recognised accolade in the local pub trade. They have also made trips to pubs right across Europe but they say these boozers don't count because they are not in the UK. David Parsons, 67, owner of the Tame Bridge public house in Great Bridge, West Mids., which is one of the team's favourite locals, said: 'These men are incredible, they are such a presence in the pub here. 'They have changed this pub, we used to serve a lot of lager but since they started coming with the knowledge they have of real ales, we sell a lot of the stuff. 'What they don't know about beer, no one does.'
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Peter Hill and John Drew marked massive milestone in their epic pub crawl .
The group - the Black County Ale Tairsters - began their quest in 1984 .
Have visited pubs in every county in Britain, including every pub in Wales .
Peter insists that group will continue 'until our livers give out'
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By . Kieran Corcoran . PUBLISHED: . 04:59 EST, 1 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 09:51 EST, 1 January 2014 . Diagnosis: Jacquie Beltrao made the announcement on Twitter last night . Sky News presenter Jacquie Beltrao revealed last night on Twitter that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Mrs Beltrao, 48, who presents sports news on the Sunrise show from 6am to 9am during the week, told her 33,000 followers that she learned of her illness on Christmas Eve. Fans and Sky News colleagues responded by sending hundreds of supportive messages, which the presenter suggested may have brought her to tears. The journalist, a former Olympic athlete, described the week between her diagnosis and announcement as 'a wobbly time' and said it was the reason she had been absent from the social networking site. Mrs Beltrao, an Irish-born mother of three posted: 'Been neglecting my twitter had a bit of a . wobbly time of it - diagnosed with Breast Cancer on Xmas Eve - all . positive thoughts welcome !!' Messages of support flooded in, from fans as well as fellow Sky journalists including Sunrise presenter Eamonn Holmes and news anchor Kay Burley. Mrs Beltrao later thanked the well-wishers for their words and said they 'made me feel all emotional - not good when you're about to do eyeliner!'. Later in the evening she thanked well-wishers for their messages of support, and posted photos of her New Year's Eve celebrations, assuring her followers that 'All will be good'. Veteran: Mrs Beltrao, who presents sports news on Sky's early-morning Sunrise show, has been with the channel for 21 years . Announcement: The presenter told her 33,000 followers about her diagnosis yesterday evening . Emotion: Around 45 minutes after the original post, Mrs Beltrao thanked the well-wishers who sent her messages of support . Gathering: She also posted a picture of a New Year's Eve party at her London home . 'All will be good': The presenter also wished her 33,000 followers a happy new year . Before her career in TV, Mrs Beltrao competed in the 1984 Olympics as a gymnast. She represented Great Britain in rhythmic gymnastics at the games in Los Angeles, coming 31st in the All-Around category. The presenter now lives in southwest London. She is married to Brazilian Eduardo Beltrao and has three children - Jorge, Amelia and Tiago.
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Mrs Beltrao was diagnosed with the disease on Christmas Eve .
But she revealed it to her 33,000 followers last night .
The former Olympic athlete presents sports news on the Sunrise show .
Messages of support flooded in from fans and colleagues .
The former Olympic gymnast thanked well-wishers for their support .
Then posted a picture of her New Year's Eve party, saying 'All will be good'
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(CNN) -- It's been three weeks since two little girls in Iowa went missing while riding their bicycles near a lake. On Sunday, two cars in the NASCAR Sprint Cup race will sport a special decal bearing the images of the cousins to raise awareness in the case. The beaming faces of Elizabeth Collins, 8, and Lyric Cook, 10, will be on the deck lid of cars No. 83 and 93 at the Pennsylvania 400 at Pocono Raceway. A telephone number for the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children will also be on the decal of the two Toyotas, said BK Racing, which owns both cars. "Being from Iowa, and having some other folks in the sport from Iowa, we're all pulling together to raise as much attention as possible to help locate the two missing girls," said Landon Cassil of Cedar Rapids and driver of No. 83 . "I really want to do as much as possible and this is one step." Travis Kvapil, who drives No. 93, is a father of three and hopes the team's efforts will aid in the search. "As a parent, I want to do anything I can to help the families locate their children," he said. Lyric and Elizabeth were last seen by their grandmother on July 13. Authorities investigating their disappearance believe they are still alive. "We believe these girls are alive and we are not discouraged by the passage of time since their disappearance," FBI spokeswoman Sandy Breault told reporters in Evansdale, Iowa, last month. She declined to discuss exactly what evidence investigators might have that pushed them toward that conclusion. Breault said she believes someone knows something, and she urged anyone with information to step forward. Grandmother: 'We will fight' A $50,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the successful recovery of the girls and the prosecution of the person, or people, responsible, she said. "Cooperation with law enforcement is the key factor in discovering the whereabouts of Lyric and Elizabeth. Unfortunately, in this case law enforcement has not received total cooperation from all family and close friends. It's important to note that the majority of the family has cooperated 100%," Breault said. "We believe there's someone out there and we would urge them to come forward." Family of missing Iowa girls 'bracing for the worst, but hoping for the best' The girls' bicycles and a purse were found near Meyers Lake hours after they were reported missing. A search of the 25-acre lake turned up nothing, and the FBI is confident the girls aren't in the lake, said Breault. Authorities are now calling their disappearance an abduction.
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Elizabeth and Lyric's pictures will be on the deck lid of two cars .
"I really want to do as much as possible," says Landon Cassil .
The girls are last seen on July 13 .
Authorities believe they are still alive .
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An Ontario girl whose father chose her needier twin sister to receive his liver donation has now gotten a lifesaving new organ of her own. Vietnamese Binh Wagner, 3, and her identical twin Phuoc were left with fatally impaired liver function due to Alagille syndrome. But when Phuoc needed a donor just a little more, their adopted father Michael chose her to receive his liver, which was a perfect match. Now, thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, Binh and her sister Phuoc are both on their road to recovery, reports the National Post. Scroll down for video . 'BINH RECEIVED HER GIFT!!!': A 3-year-old girl in Ontario recently received a donated liver after her sicker twin sister was chosen ahead of her to receive part of their adopted father's liver early this year . Binh and Phuoc Wagner of Kingston, Ontario were adopted by Michael and Johanne Wagner around a year and a half ago from Vietnam. The twins suffer from Alagille syndrome, a life-threatening genetic disorder that causes a loss of the bile ducts within the liver during the first year of life . 'BINH RECEIVED HER GIFT!!! There are not enough words to thank the amazing and so unselfish donor,' the parents wrote on a Facebook page dedicated to the girls. The post continued: . 'Binh is recovering well, at her own pace. She has been through a lot with very different medical issues from her twin who had her transplant two months ago. 'We are looking forward to all being reunited and leading a healthier life now, with both transplants finally behind us.' When Mr Wagner and his wife Johanne found out that both girls would need a liver transplant, they were relieved to find out that he was a perfect match. However, Wagner was only able to give a portion of his liver to just one of his daughters, leaving him with an impossible choice. In the end, doctors suggested giving the donation to daughter Phuoc, since she needed it the most. Mr Wagner and daughter Phuoc went into surgery on February 10, and it has so far been a success. Anonymous lifesaver: The parents have asked that media not try to track down the donor of Binh's new liver, because he or she has chosen to remain anonymous . Recovering well: 'Binh is recovering well, at her own pace. She has been through a lot with very different medical issues from her twin who had her transplant two months ago,' read a Facebook update about the girl . Five days after the operation, the family posted a heartwarming video of the moment father and daughter were reunited in Phuoc's hospital room. 'Hey mon belle!' Mr Wagner says to his little girl, which translates to 'Hey my beauty' in French. The Wagners had seven of their own children before they decided to take Binh and Phouc in. Mrs Wagner said: 'When we saw them at the orphanage we were shocked, really. 'They were 9 pounds at 18 months. So we left the orphanage that day and went to buy two little containers with dragonflies on them and that's what we were going to lay their ashes in if they didn't make it.' Despite the health problems, Mrs Wagner does not regret her decision. She said: 'We look back and we have no regrets. 'We would travel this path all over again. They have taught us openness, they have taught our children sharing and openness. It's been nothing but a wonderful mess.' Months before Binh's transplant, Michael Wanger was convinced to pass her by and choose her sister Phuoc (right) to receive part of his liver . Alagille syndrome is a life-threatening genetic disorder that causes a loss of the bile ducts within the liver during the first year of life. This leads to a buildup of bile in the liver, causing damage to liver cells. Scarring may occur and lead to cirrhosis in about half of affected children. Symptoms including jaundice, loose stools and poor growth develop within the first three months of life. Later, there is persistent jaundice, itching, fatty deposits in the skin and stunted growth. The disease can stabilise between four and 10. It affects around one in 100,000 children. Children with the condition tend to have a prominent, broad forehead; deep-set eyes; a straight nose; and a small pointed chin. Treatment of Alagille syndrome focuses on trying to increase the flow of bile from the liver. Problems with fat digestion and absorption may lead to deficiency of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K). Deficiencies of these vitamins can be diagnosed by blood tests and can usually be corrected by large oral doses. Occasionally, liver cirrhosis advances to a stage where the liver fails to perform its functions. Liver transplantation is then considered. Alagille syndrome is generally inherited only from one parent and there is a 50 per cent chance that each child will develop the syndrome. Half of cases occur spontaneously. Source: America Liver Foundation . 'They were 9 pounds at 18 months. So we left the orphanage that day and went to buy two little containers with dragonflies on them and that's what we were going to lay their ashes in if they didn't make it,' Mrs Wagner recalled about meeting the girls in Vietnam . Despite the health problems, Mrs Wagner does not regret her decision.She said: 'We would travel this path all over again. They have taught us openness, they have taught our children sharing and openness. It's been nothing but a wonderful mess.'
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Binh Wagner, a 3-year-old Vietnamese girl adopted by an Ontario family, was recovering Monday following a liver transplant .
Earlier this year, her twin Phuoc received a liver from their adopted father Michael Wagner but Binh's fate remained uncertain .
The identical twins suffer from a genetic disease called Alagille syndrome, which leads to a buildup of bile in the liver, causing damage to liver cells .
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By . Suzannah Hills . PUBLISHED: . 07:01 EST, 6 February 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 11:41 EST, 6 February 2014 . The first athletes to compete in the Winter Olympics took to the slopes today as the Russian government issued further assurances it is doing everything possible to ensure the Sochi Games are as safe as possible. The first competitions started more than 24 hours before the official Opening Ceremony on Friday to accommodate the 12 new men's and women's medal events added since the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. The men's snowboard slopestyle qualifying runs were the first to get underway this morning at the X-Treme Park in the mountains above Sochi - with athletes performing incredible stunts and jumps. They were followed by the women's qualifying runs and the women's moguls freestyle skiing this afternoon. The two events will be among the first medals to be awarded on Saturday. Scroll down for video . Taking to the slopes: Britain's Billy Morgan performs a jump during the men's slopestyle snowboarding qualifying session at the 2014 Sochi Olympic Games in Rosa Khutor, Russia, on Thursday . Up in the air: Great Britain's Jamie Nicholls competes during the Men's Snowboard Slopestyle qualification at the Rosa Khutor Extreme Park . Bending over backwards to win: Great Britain's Billy Morgan practices before his Snowboard Men's Slopestyle Qualifying Heat 1 . Ryan Stassel, from the U.S., competes in the Men's Snowboard Slopestyle second heat qualification . Mathias Weissenbacher, from Austria, pictured during the Men's Slopestyle Qualification rounds . Canada's Spencer O'Brien competes in the Women's Snowboard Slopestyle qualification at the Rosa Khutor Extreme Park . Down in Sochi, the new team figure skating competition will also start this afternoon at the Iceberg Skating Palace. The men's short program is to be followed by the pairs. But despite an action-packed day of sport, much focus still surrounded the terror threats leading up to the Games. The Russian government says it's doing everything possible to make sure the Sochi Games are as safe as possible. Dmitry Kozak, Russia's deputy prime minister, said: 'We can guarantee the safety of the people as well as any other government hosting a mass event (can).' Kozak today spoke about the steps Russia is taking to collaborate with nations across the globe to build a database on potential terrorists. He says that 'there is no reason to believe Sochi, in Russia, is under more threat than any other city in the world'. Sweden's Niklas Mattsson finishes his first run during men's snowboard slopestyle qualifying at the Rosa Khutor Extreme Park . Canada's Charles Reid performs a jump during the men's slopestyle snowboard qualifying session at the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic Games on Thursday . Lucien Koch, from Switzerland ,competes in the Men's Slopestyle Qualification as the Russian government insisted it is doing everything possible to ensure the Games are safe . Women's heats: Amy Fuller, from Great Britain, pictured left competing in the Women's Slopestyle Qualification and pictured right after the first heat . New Zealand's Rebecca Torr competes in the Women's Snowboard Slopestyle qualification as the first competitions got underway at the Winter Olympics . Sina Candrian, from Switzerland, competes in the Women's Slopestyle Qualification. Medals will be awarded for the event on Saturday . New Zealand's Rebecca Torr takes a jump during the women's snowboard slopestyle qualifying at the Rosa Khutor Extreme Park . Stunning backdrop: Britain's Billy Morgan performs a jump during the men's slopestyle snowboarding qualifying session . Security concerns have been at the forefront of the Sochi Games for months. They were renewed this week when the U.S. Homeland Security Department warned airlines flying to Russia that terrorists may try to smuggle explosives into the country in tubes of toothpaste. Kozak says the fear of terrorism is always present at big sporting events, in Russia or anywhere else. But he also believes 'the level of fear should be lower' surrounding the Sochi Games. Protesters in cities around the world . targeted major Olympic sponsors on Wednesday, urging them to speak out . against the Russian law. The . law, signed in July by President Vladimir Putin, outlaws pro-gay . 'propaganda' that could be accessible to minors. Critics say it is so . restrictive and vague that it deters almost any public expression of . support for gay rights. Kozak said Russian organizers will not . discriminate against visitors or athletes because of their sexuality, . but he backed the government's support for the so-called gay propaganda . law. Elisabeth Goergl, from Austria, pictured in action during the first training session of the Women's Downhill race at the Rosa Khutor Alpine Center . Liechtenstein's Tina Weirather speeds down the course in the first training session for the women's alpine skiing downhill event . Spain's Paul De La Cuesta during a Men's Alpine Skiing Downhill training session at the Rosa Khutor Alpine Center . Britain's Chemmy Alcott catches her breath in the finish area after a women's downhill training run, pictured left, before smiling for spectators, right . Julia Mancuso, from the USA, pictured training for the Women's Downhill race in her stars and stripes kit . A coach gives encouragement to Slovakia's Jana Gantnerova after a women's downhill training run for the 2014 Winter Olympics . Russia's Alexander Glebov takes part in a Men's Alpine Skiing Downhill training session at the Rosa Khutor Alpine Center . Italy's Elena Fanchini gets tangled in the safety net after crashing in the first training session for the women's alpine skiing downhill event . US skier Heidi Kloser is carried off the course by medical personnel after crashing during warm-ups before the Freestyle Skiing Ladies Moguls . South Korea's Seo Jung-Hwa falls during a warm up to the Women's Freestyle Skiing Moguls qualifications . Kozak said . athletes are free to express their views and discuss their sexuality. However, he asked them to stay away from children, saying 'leave the . kids alone'. His comments comes as U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon condemned attacks against homosexuals. In a speech to the IOC today. Ban said many professional athletes, gay and straight, are speaking out against prejudice and discrimination. 'We must all raise our voices against attacks on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex people,' he said. 'We must oppose the arrests, imprisonments and discriminatory restrictions they face.' Ban's remarks came at a time when activists and protesters have stepped up their campaign against Russia's law restricting gay rights activities. Human Rights Watch posted a video this week on YouTube of gay people in Russia being bullied, chased and beaten, compiled from footage the group said was uploaded by perpetrators. 'Hatred of any kind must have no place in the 21st century,' Ban said. The U.N. chief noted that Principle 6 of the Olympic Charter enshrines the IOC's opposition to any form of discrimination. Arrival of Team GB: Princess Anne is introduced to Amy Williams ahead of the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics at the Olympic Park on Thursday . Britain's Princess Anne talks with figure skater Jenna McCorkell during the welcoming ceremony for the British Olympic team in the Athletes Village at the Olympic Park . Members of Kazakhstan's speed skating team practise at the Adler Arena ahead of the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics . Members of South Korea's men short track team practice during a training session at the Iceberg venue in Sochi . Japan's Asada Mao performs during a figure stating practice rink ahead of the 2014 Winter Olympics, . Ready, aim, fire: Athletes train at the Laura Biathlon Center while a cleaner prepares the range ahead of the Games on Wednesday . 'The Olympics show the power of sport to bring together individuals regardless of age, race, class, religion, ability, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity,' Ban said. 'I know that there has been some controversy over this issue,' Ban told reporters after his speech. 'At the same time, I appreciate President Putin for his assurance that there will be no discrimination whatsoever and the people with different sexual orientation are welcome to compete and enjoy this Olympic Games.' 'I hope that this Olympics will be the venue where all the people, regardless of sexual orientation, LGBT and all of these people will really be able to enjoy the harmony and friendship, mutual respect and compete in the spirit of the Olympic movement,' he added. Ban's visit to Sochi comes as several world leaders decided to skip the games, including British Prime Minister David Cameron, U.S. President Barack Obama, German President Joachim Gauck and French President Francois Hollande. Although the chief organizer of the Sochi Olympics says a record number of world leaders are still attending. USA's two-man bobsleigh pilot Cory Butner speeds down the track during an unofficial progressive training at the Sanki sliding center at the Sanki sliding center in Rosa Khutor . Head coach of Canada's women's ice hockey team Kevin Dineen instructs his players during a practice session . Countdown: Canada's women's ice hockey team pose for a photograph after arriving for a practise session at the stadium . Dmitry Chernyshenko says 65 heads of state and government and international organizations are expected to attend Russia's first Winter Olympics. He says it's a record for Winter Games and three times the number of leaders who attended the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver. But spectators arriving in Sochi so far seem to be mainly Russian. Dina Kobolenko, who works at a tourist information stand near the Sochi train station, says she's seen only a single foreigner - a South Korean. Fears about terrorism and the hassle of reaching Sochi from points abroad may be keeping some foreigners away - and undermining Vladimir Putin's plans to transform Sochi into a magnet for international tourism. A train traveling between Olympic sites and downtown Sochi cheerily announces to visitors in English: 'We wish you a pleasant journey!' But on a recent ride, its seats were half empty. And a sweep through four train cars found ... not a single foreign fan. International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach, pictured right, hands over the 2014 Sochi Olympics Winter Games torch to United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon as the torch relay arrived in Sochi on Wednesday . Local residents watch the torch relay in Lazarevskoye District of the Black Sea resort of Sochi on Wednesday . Smile! The Chinese Taipei delegation pose for a photograph during the team welcome ceremony on Thursday . An observation balloon is seen hovering over the Olympic Park in Sochi as the first events got underway . Protest: Russia's leading gay rights campaigner Nikolai Alexeyev runs away from a plainclothes policeman during a protest outside the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic Games organizing committee office in downtown Moscow on Wednesday .
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The men's snowboard slopestyle qualifying runs were the first to get underway this morning .
Competitions started more than 24 hours .
before the official Opening Ceremony on Friday to accommodate the 12 new .
medal events .
Russia's deputy prime minister Dmitry Kozak today said the government can guarantee 'the safety of the people'
Kozak also backed the government's support for the so-called gay propaganda .
law but claimed Russian organizers will not .
discriminate against visitors or athletes because of their sexuality .
U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today condemned attacks against homosexuals in a speech to the IOC .
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In the Crystal Palace boardroom on Saturday there were hushed tones and quiet conversations taking place between the club’s owners. It was the first time they had met since the resignation of sporting director Iain Moody on Thursday and the decision to pull the plug on the potential appointment of Malky Mackay. They are numb, shocked by the nature of the allegations and disappointed that a valued member of the technical set-up at Selhurst Park has left. Still, they have vowed to fill the void. Decision maker: Steve Parish (right) will choose Tony Pulis' successor when the right candidate comes up . Tall order: Parish knows he will find it hard in choosing someone who can match Pulis' success at the club . Palace need a manager, someone to take them through the transfer window and beyond as they attempt to establish themselves in the Barclays Premier League. There is a temptation to appoint Keith Millen, who served under Ian Holloway and Tony Pulis, as the interim manager until another name emerges. The transfer window is another added pressure and there is a feeling within the club that they need to add some names to a squad who finished 11th in the Barclays Premier League last season. Millen has been speaking with the club’s scouting staff this week and intends to put forward some names as Palace plan for the future. There is a perception within the game that Palace’s co-chairman Steve Parish picks the players and is reluctant to spend big on new recruits. The reality is he prefers to cut out the middle man, negotiating directly with the selling club in an attempt to cut costs. It is sensible planning, even if it grates with some agents. Temporary charge: Keith Millen has led Crystal Palace to two straight defeats in the club's opening fixtures . Destroyer: Carlton Cole added more salt to Palace's wound by scoring West Ham's third at Selhurst Park . When Palace wanted to buy Gylfi Sigurdsson from Tottenham in the summer, Parish phoned their chairman Daniel Levy. A few days later, when Levy was trimming the fat from his squad at Spurs, he offered German midfielder Lewis Holtby to Palace. In the summer, when Pulis was plotting Palace’s strategy, a budget of around £25 million was set aside for incoming players. It is still there. Pulis’ name is a ghost in the corridors at Selhurst Park, stalking the club after he left, by mutual consent, 48 hours before the season’s opener against Arsenal. Palace are still wondering why he really left. Until Pulis breaks his silence, no one really knows. This week, in Palace’s central London offices, Parish’s email has been going off every few seconds with the CVs of managers all over the world. Sometimes the introductions are so vague it is impossible to tell whether the candidate concerned even knows he has applied for the job. Some managers have three, sometimes four, people claiming to be their official representative. Unexpected departure: Pulis decided the time was right to leave Crystal Palace after just 10 months at the club . Resignation: Sporting director Iain Moody (centre) had no choice but to resign from his role at Selhurst Park . Earlier in the week he had Moody there to help him, talking to agents and potential managers about the prospect of succeeding Pulis. All that changed when Moody went ‘white as a sheet’ after receiving a call from Sportsmail about the text messages he exchanged with Mackay when they were together at Cardiff. Within minutes he was sprinting to his lawyers and attempting to stop the story that ultimately led to his demise. Identifying the next Palace manager is Parish’s world now, sifting through applicants ranging from former Italian World Cup captain Fabio Cannavaro to Colombia’s World Cup coach Jose Pekerman. In the running: Colombia boss Jose Pekerman (left) and Italy's 2006 World Cup-winning captain Fabio Cannavaro (right) have thrown their name in the hat . None of them fits the bill. Parish wants someone who knows the ropes, a manager who has worked in the Premier League and kept teams out of the bottom three. He is prepared to wait, just as he did when Ian Holloway left last October. Until Thursday, Parish had the option to appoint former Spurs manager Tim Sherwood, but he since withdrawn himself from a race he described yesterday as ‘like the grand national’. Palace want a manager with pedigree, a name the players will respond to on the training ground. Pulis had that aura and was a commanding figure when he addressed the players. Replacing him will not be easy.
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Former Eagles boss Tony Pulis left 48 hours before Palace's league opener .
Sporting director Iain Moody resigned following Sportmail's exclusive story .
Fabio Cannavaro is interested in replacing Pulis in the Selhurst Park hotseat .
Keith Millen remains in temporary charge of the south London outfit .
Tim Sherwood likens race to replace Pulis to the Grand National .
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WHO: Mental health support should be part of the response to emergencies. The recommendation applies in border areas for pregnant women. We ask ministries of health to share data.
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Mental health support should be part of the response to emergencies.
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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 14:25 EST, 15 September 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 10:59 EST, 16 September 2012 . The career criminal accused of raping a 73-year-old woman in New York's Central Park on Wednesday bragged about how he murdered an elderly cleaning lady and terrified his neighbours so much that they bought guns to protect themselves when he was released from prison, it has been revealed. David Albert Mitchell's one-time girlfriend told how the accused rapist boasted about killing Barbara . Flake in the tiny West Virginia community of Jenkinjones, an . impoverished and tightknit community in the state's southern coalfields. But his half-brother has since leapt to his defence, claiming he was overwhelmed at the time by his evil alter ego, Johnny. Scroll down for video . Monster: David Albert Mitchell, who is accused of raping and robbing an elderly woman in Central Park, bragged about murdering two women, according to his ex-girlfriend . Joe Mitchell, 42, said he believes . his brother suffers from a split personalitly disorder, backing up his . claim with an eerie rendition of the first time he 'met' Johnny . face-to-face. 'We fought down the driveway, he broke my back and hit me in the back with a brick,' he said, according to the New York Daily News. 'That's the first time I met him and the last time he came out to meet me … I ain't met him since.' 'I guess y’all met him out there [in New York].' Joe. aged 22 at the time of the alleged attack, said he had to wear a back brace for six months. He is convinced it was Johnny who brutally raped the 73-year-old birdwalker in Central Park, not David. Police determined Flake died from a blow to the head . when they found her skull two years after she disappeared from her . home in 2002. But there was never enough information or probable cause to arrest . Mitchell, said Virginia State Police Sgt. C.F. Kane. 'In . a social setting, when there's alcohol involved, he will tell you . anything,' Mitchell's . former girlfriend, Saretta Mitchell, said. 'He bragged to me and some of our friends at . different times that he had murdered two people.' And, Mitchell allegedly frightened the residents of Jenkinjones for years - a neighbor says locals were so terrified after his release from prison last year they bought guns to protect themselves. Authorities say David Albert Mitchell has been in and out of prison since he was 18. He was arrested twice on charges of raping elderly women, suspected but not charged in the murder of one female neighbor and acquitted of killing another. Court records and prosecutors describe a man who drank heavily, was quick to threaten violence, never earned a high school diploma and may have been mentally ill. Mitchell served eight years in a Virginia prison for the 2003 abduction of ex-girlfriend Saretta Mitchell and got out last year. Records show he violated probation three times, then apparently fled to New York, where police say he attacked a 73-year-old birdwatcher in Central Park near a memorial to peace-loving John Lennon. Terrifying: Mitchell allegedly frightened the residents of Jenkinjones, Virginia for years - a neighbor says locals were so terrified after his release from prison last year they bought guns to protect themselves . Mugshot: An undated mugshot shows Mitchell, who police have just arrested for brutally raping a 73-year-old woman; he was released from prison last year after serving eight years for abducting his ex-girlfriend in 2003 . Criminal history: Mitchell's first felony arrest was in 1989, when he was accused of killing 86-year-old Annie Parks of Jenkinjones . Back in Jenkinjones, a hard-luck coalfields town of fewer than 300, a man well-acquainted with both Mitchell and some of his alleged victims said it's best if New York locks him up for good. He said when word spread of Mitchell's release from prison last year, people started buying guns to protect themselves because he had terrorized people in the town and preyed on elderly women for years. Career criminal: Mitchell has been arrested twice on charges of raping elderly women, suspected but not charged in the murder of one female neighbor and acquitted of killing another . 'They ain't gonna trust him down here again. They're gonna end up killing him,' said 45-year-old Wayne Mitchell, no relation to the suspect. 'To be honest with you, he needs to be put away for life.' Jenkinjones is an isolated, unincorporated town in McDowell County, an economically desperate part of the struggling West Virginia coalfields. More than a third of the population lives in poverty, with median incomes less than half the U.S. average. People have been fleeing McDowell for decades as the once-thriving coal industry died, and the population plummeted nearly 19 percent in the past decade. Drug abuse is rampant, schools and students are struggling, and it's historically been ranked among the nation's unhealthiest counties. It's also just miles from the Virginia line, a location that helped Mitchell build a criminal resume in both states. His first felony arrest was in 1989, when he was accused of killing 86-year-old Annie Parks of Jenkinjones. Although Mitchell was acquitted in that case, he was arrested again a few months later, charged with raping another Jenkinjones resident who was in her 70s and stealing her gun. Prosecutors dropped the sexual assault charge in that case under a plea bargain, Sid Bell, then Mitchell's attorney and now the county prosecutor, told The Charleston Gazette. Mitchell escaped for two days while serving that sentence, West Virginia Division of Corrections spokeswoman Susan Harding said, and was then convicted of the escape. He was released from the Mount Olive Correctional Center in February 2000, Harding said, but incarcerated again in December 2000 on a grand larceny charge. He finished that sentence in 2001. Disgusting: The 42-year-old, pictured, spat as he was escorted out of the police building yesterday . About a year later, 54-year-old Barbara Flake went missing from Jenkinjones, and some suspected Mitchell. When Flake's skull turned up two years later, ex-girlfriend Saretta Mitchell went to police with a shocking claim: David Mitchell had confessed to the killing. 'In a social setting, when there's alcohol involved, he will tell you anything,' she said. 'He bragged to me and some of our friends at different times that he had murdered two people.' Saretta Mitchell declined to elaborate on her relationship with the rape suspect, saying she fears for her safety and that of her children. Sgt. C.F. Kane said investigators considered David Mitchell a person of interest in Flake's death, but they lacked evidence to charge him. They reached out to authorities in New York on Friday to find out if Mitchell has said anything about the 2002 slaying. Police: Officers, pictured, cordoned off the area in Strawberry Fields yesterday . NYPD: Police, pictured at the crime scene, have released video footage of the suspected rapist . Wayne Mitchell said Flake was a sweet, generous woman who cleaned houses for a living and never bothered anyone. 'If you asked her for $5, she'd give you $10 -- if she had $10,' he said. 'She was just like your own mother.' About a year after Flake disappeared, David Mitchell was charged in Virginia with kidnapping his ex-girlfriend. The indictment says he stole a vehicle and used it to abduct Saretta Mitchell, and that he drove drunk while evading police. 'It was a scary incident,' said Tazewell County Prosecutor Dennis H. Lee, 'and thank God he was stopped before doing whatever he intended to do with her.' Although he'd been arrested many times in Virginia, the abduction was the case that sent him to prison for the first time there. He served eight years at Red Onion State Prison, a maximum-security facility reserved for the worst of the worst offenders. When he got out, he was placed in a halfway house in suburban Richmond and initially met the conditions required of him, according to a probation report filed in Tazewell County Circuit Court. Mitchell worked with a tutor and was trying to obtain his GED. He was passing random drug-screening tests. Lee said some records that haven't been made public indicate Mitchell may have schizophrenia. Scene: The attack took place in a popular area of the park dedicated to John Lennon . But a month into the halfway house stay, Mitchell claimed he was robbed of $125 while working a construction job, 'became very irate and threatened to kill everyone,' the probation report said. Mitchell agreed to a psychological evaluation but was thrown out of the halfway house over fears about his mental state. He went back to prison for probation violations last October but failed to report to his probation officer when he was once again released. 'He just dropped off the grid,' Lee said. Authorities believed he might have been living in a tent in West Virginia. Then came word of the rape in Central Park. Police there say he raped a birdwatcher who told police that she had taken a photo of Mitchell fondling himself days before the attack. She said Mitchell tried to take the camera away from her and demanded she delete the image. Then, on Wednesday, he attacked her in a wooded area near the busy Strawberry Fields section of Central Park, she told investigators. He was also charged with threatening a man with a knife last month in the same area of the park. He told the man, according to investigators: 'I have no problem stabbing you as many times as I want and making this circle full of blood.' Mitchell was arraigned Friday on charges of first-degree rape, robbery, assault and other charges, and ordered held without bail. A call to his attorney at arraignment was not returned. Mitchell said nothing as he was led from the special victims unit to face charges in court Friday, but he spat at reporters gathered there. Saretta Mitchell said she's not surprised by the latest accusation, but neither she nor his brothers want to talk about Mitchell. 'We want something to be done so he doesn't hurt anyone else,' she said, 'but he's done enough damage to the family already.'
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David Albert Mitchell, 42, allegedly boasted about killing Barbara Flake, a West Virginia cleaning lady who was murdered in 2002 .
Mitchell has had run-ins with the law all of his adult life .
Accused of raping a 73-year-old birdwatcher in Central Park on Wednesday .
Half-brother Joe insists it wasn't David but his alter-ego, Johnny, who carried out the alleged rape .
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A woman in China showed her strength by using her legs to lift a group of people. The footage captured at a birthday party in Sichuan Province shows a woman lying on her back on a stage. Placed across her outstretched legs is a plank of wood and clinging to either side of it are two women who are about to become human weights. The woman holds two people on a plank of wood and starts lifting them up and down with her legs . Three men stand and assist the women before stepping back and preparing to enjoy the show. Suddenly music begins playing and the woman starts pumping her legs up and down as the two volunteers struggle to hold on. The woman shows amazing strength by remaining in the position for some time before she begins twirling the plank of wood – removing a leg in between rotations. The incredible showing of strength was videoed at a birthday party in China's Sichuan Province . Four people attach themselves to the wood and the plank is lifted onto the woman’s feet by the assistants . Later in the video the men come over to remove the plank of wood but despite the woman being given a moment to rest she keeps her legs in the same position. Four people then attach themselves to the wood and the plank is lifted onto the woman’s feet by the assistants. She holds the people – who weigh nearly 660lbs – for quite some time before the plank is removed and she is finally able to have a rest. The video concludes with guests to the party standing around and clapping the woman's incredible show of strength. The woman holds the people for quite some time before the plank is removed and she is able to have a rest .
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Woman performed stunt at a birthday party in Sichuan Province .
She initially holds two people with her legs and twirls them .
She then lifts four people who cling onto the wooden plank .
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(CNN) -- The death of longtime Libyan dictator Moammar Gadhafi is shaking the Arab world. And nations like Egypt, which next month holds its first parliamentary elections since the fall of President Hosni Mubarak in February, are watching. Egypt, like Tunisia -- which holds elections this weekend -- needs a great many positive influences to consolidate its nascent democratic government. If Libya's National Transitional Council should turn in a militant Islamist direction and become hostile to the European Union or the United States, it could jeopardize democratic progress in Tunis and Cairo alike. Egypt's position is precarious enough as it is. Two weeks ago in Cairo, for example, Coptic Christian protesters clashed with security forces, leaving 25 dead and more than 300 injured. The violence stems from the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces' refusal to share key decision-making powers with civilians and tests its ability to manage the country's fragile political transition. Today in Egypt, no political faction is strong enough to monopolize power and none is weak enough to be ground out of existence. As a result, the army's failure to build a solid political consensus creates a recipe for ongoing confrontation. As long as Egyptians believe they stand to gain more through violence than peaceful political negotiations, the situation in Cairo will worsen. Three decades ago, after the Islamic Revolution in Iran, the Ayatollah Khomeini wasted no time in enacting a brutal purge of the country's secular military elites, whom he feared would endanger his rule. In refusing to establish a new order that Egypt's most powerful political constituencies can all get behind, the Egyptian army may now be leading itself in the same direction. The army's stubbornness in refusing to craft a new constitution before holding elections at the end of November is ill-considered and dangerous. The coming parliament will be charged with choosing 100 experts to draft the new constitution. But Christians and secularists fear that an Islamist-dominated parliament will produce a constitution that discriminates against them. Having had little more than six months of freedom, most Egyptian political parties are still in their infancy, and the older secular parties are not yet ready for elections. Islamist parties are the best prepared, as they have been well funded, are known across the country and have enjoyed most of the coverage in the state-owned media since the fall of Mubarak. Yet secularists -- who constitute 70% or perhaps 80% of Egypt's political parties -- asked for more time to prepare for elections and for the military to facilitate an agreement on a bill of rights that sets down guiding principles for the new constitution. Islamists oppose such a move, as they fear it would create rules the secularists could use to oppress them. As a provisional government, the army must create a new political framework that guarantees majority rule while protecting the rights of religious, ethnic and political minorities. Yet in spite of a worsening domestic situation, the military shows no such desire. After Mubarak's fall, Egyptians hoped the army would be the guarantor of a democratic transition; that it would do this transparently, sharing power with civilian political groups, and presiding over a convention culminating in a modern, democratic constitution that protects every Egyptian individual and political group that rejects violence. In late July, the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces sent a worrisome signal when it celebrated National Day, the anniversary of the 1952 coup d'etat in which the military took power. This coup smothered Egypt's nascent democratic process in its cradle and ushered in an era of military rule lasting almost six decades. After the coup, military men in civilian attire rigged every election, abused human rights and monopolized the political system. In years past, National Day was nothing out of the ordinary -- the country had celebrated it every year for almost six decades -- but this year, it signaled the military's intention to backpedal on political reforms and maintain an undemocratic status quo. The 1952 regime has hidden behind many different ideologies and adopted a range of different national and international alliances to suit its needs. It began as a capitalist government, allied with the West, turned to Moscow and became socialist in the 1960s, then adopted a mixture of socialism and capitalism in the late '70s, and allied itself with Washington. Yet in no incarnation was the military-backed regime ever democratic. Until Egypt's rulers reject the order established in the 1952 military coup, the country will never move forward toward genuine democracy. Ongoing protests and rising violence are not a coincidence. They are the fruits of 60 years of failed policies. If Egyptians could be confident in their political futures -- that they would be subject to the rule of law rather than the rule of man -- they would be less frustrated. If they could be sure that the country's new political order would respect their individual rights and liberties, they would no longer be in the streets. If a new constitution ensured that Islamists, Christians, secularists, men and women alike all enjoyed equal rights, then maybe violence and protests would not be the way to be heard. If the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces respected its mandate to establish the rules of the game, and then shared power with political parties, Egyptians would be confident that it sought only to preserve rule of law and public order, not to perpetuate its own rule. Egyptian military elites can take comfort that they will not meet the same end as Gadhafi, nor that of the Iranian military after the fall of the shah. But they should take the latest violence very seriously, as they are in a far more delicate position than they may realize. They cannot continue to manage the country's transition the way that they have. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Khairi Abaza.
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Khairi Abaza: Gadhafi's death has resonated in Arab Spring countries like Egypt, Tunisia .
He says Egypt's transition to democracy has been rough; how Libya proceeds matters .
He says Egypt's military rulers aren't managing factions in transition; this isn't encouraging .
Abaza: Army must make political framework that ensures majority rule, backs minorities' rights .
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By . Rosie Taylor . PUBLISHED: . 10:36 EST, 5 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 10:36 EST, 5 August 2013 . A playwright who created a play about suicide bombers caused a major security scare when he threw a prop bomb away in a bin. Ethan Fisbane had chucked out the fake bomb as he cleared out his flat in Manhattan ahead of moving home - but it was found by the building's caretaker who called the police. A huge number of NYPD police officers descended on the area, including members of the Bomb Squad and Emergency Service Unit, while the Joint Terrorism Task Force was put on notice. Scroll down for video . Scare: Playwright Ethan Fishbane caused a major security scare when he threw out an old prop bomb from his play about suicide bombers . The 23-year-old from New Jersey told the New York Post that he 'didn't think' when he threw the bomb away. He added: 'I didn't think twice about it, because, literally, it's two blocks of clay, a calculator that's cut in half and some wires from a Gameboy.' As detectives carried out door-to-door enquiries along the street, he realised what had happened. 'They came to knock on my door. At first, I didn’t know what . they were talking about. But then I was like, "Oh, my God! I think . that’s my prop. I think that’s mine",' he told the newspaper. The playwright, who has decided not to produce any more plays about terrorists, said he felt reassured by how the police reacted. 'I felt the response was wholly appropriate. Even if it’s just a prop for a theater piece, they were on top of it,' he said. Chaos: Hundreds of police descended on Bedford Street, in Manhattan, (pictured) after the prop bomb was found in a bin near Mr Fishbane's flat . Mr Fishbane's play titled 'American Suicide Bomber Association' was performed as if it were a conference, with actors discussing the best way to do suicide bombings. It featured a twist ending where an actor seated in the audience would stand up to announce they had a bomb, thus 'bombing' the suicide bombing conference. The experimental piece made its début at Dixon Place theatre in New York before touring to Indonesia and South Africa. The playwright is a recent graduate from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, where he specialised in experimental theatre. WATCH: Playwright Ethan Fishbane talks about his show ASBA in funding appeal .
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Ethan Fishbane, 23, caused a major bomb scare when he threw out old prop .
Hundreds of police, including Bomb Squad, descended on Manhattan street .
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Richard III was the last English king to lose his life on the battlefield. Scientists who have been testing his remains -- found under a parking lot in the English city of Leicester -- now believe they know how he died. The 15th-century king was best known to modern Britons as the hunchbacked Shakespearean villain accused of murdering his nephews, the "Princes in the Tower," to usurp the throne. His life has always been a controversial chapter in English lore. Although he ruled for only two years (1483-85) and died at the age of 32, there has been an ongoing debate over Richard III's portrayal in both English history and English literature. According to historians, the king's defeat and death at Bosworth Field ended the Wars of the Roses and marked the end of the Middle Ages in England. Though he was a royal, his body was given to local monks, and he was buried in a crude grave in an unknown location. It was not until archaeologists from the University of Leicester discovered his remains under a parking lot in 2012 that people learned where his body had been buried. Since that time, both scientists and medical researchers have studied the remains to better understand how King Richard III lived and died. Now, researchers have used modern forensic analysis to reveal that he suffered 11 injuries at or near the time of death, according to a new study published in The Lancet. Of those, three had the potential to cause death quickly: two to the skull and one to the pelvis. And the scientists believe that the skull injuries were the ones that killed the last monarch from the House of York. Leicester to be final burial place of Richard III . "Richard's injuries represent a sustained attack or an attack by several assailants with weapons from the later medieval period," said Professor Sarah Hainsworth, one of the authors of the study. "The wounds to the skull suggest that he was not wearing a helmet, and the absence of defensive wounds on his arms and hands indicate that he was otherwise still armored at the time of his death." The injury to his pelvis might have been inflicted after his death, the team surmised, since the kind of armor that would have been worn by the king in the late 15th century would have protected that area. "I think the most surprising injury is the one to the pelvis," Hainsworth said. "We believe that this corresponds to contemporary accounts of Richard III being slung over the back of the horse to be taken back to Leicester after the Battle of Bosworth, as this would give someone the correct body position to inflict this injury." There were nine injuries to the skull in total and two elsewhere on the skeleton. The team used whole-body CT scans and micro-CT imaging of injured bones to analyze trauma, according to a news release from The Lancet. They also looked at tool marks on the bones to try to establish what kind of weapons were used. "The most likely injuries to have caused the king's death are the two to the inferior aspect of the skull -- a large sharp force trauma possibly from a sword or staff weapon, such as a halberd or bill, and a penetrating injury from the tip of an edged weapon," said Professor Guy Rutty, a co-author of the study. "Richard's head injuries are consistent with some near-contemporary accounts of the battle, which suggest that Richard abandoned his horse after it became stuck in a mire and was killed while fighting his enemies." Although the findings are interesting to historians, the question remains: Do they change the accounts of King Richard III's last moments in battle? Since none of the wounds overlapped, the researchers were not able to tell in exactly what order they occurred. "The (investigators) provide a compelling account, giving tantalizing glimpses into the validity of the historic accounts of his death, which were heavily edited by the Tudors in the following 200 years, " said Heather Bonney of the Natural History Museum in London. "I am sure that Richard III will continue to divide opinion fiercely for centuries to come." After a legal battle, it has been decided that the medieval king will be reburied next spring in Leicester Cathedral, just a stone's throw from where his remains were uncovered. Bones reveal king's taste for luxury food, wine . Richard III had worms, scientists say .
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Scientists have analyzed King Richard III's skeletal remains to see how he was killed .
They found evidence of 11 injuries at the time of death, three of them potentially fatal .
Two head injuries are the most likely to have killed the king, scientists say .
Richard III's remains were found in 2012 under a parking lot in the city of Leicester .
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Condition: Jessica Knight can't stop eating carpet underlay and the stuffing from soft furnishings . It's not the first time a child has been accused of eating her parents out of house and home – but in Jessica Knight’s case, it’s literally true. The four-year-old has an unusual appetite for furniture, soft furnishings and fittings, and doctors say they are unable to treat her. Hardly anything is off the youngster’s menu, with the filling from a rocking horse, padding in an armchair and even carpet underlay taking her fancy. Other non-food items she devours include sand and chips of cement from paving blocks. Jessica suffers from pica, a rare medical disorder that leads to an appetite for non-nutritious substances. It is more commonly recognised among pregnant women, some of whom develop unusual cravings. ‘I was really shocked when I realised just how much she was eating. If you lift up the carpet in her room now you can see there is no underlay left,’ said her mother, Kelly Will. ‘We are at our wits’ end. We try to keep her busy so she doesn’t do it, but if we try to stop her she will find a way to do it. ‘I’d have to remove everything from my house, including all chairs and sofas.’ Miss Will, 36, first noticed the problem when Jessica was two and began eating the filling from a children’s armchair. Staff at her pre-school also spotted her licking her hands and placing them in a sandpit before sucking the grains from her fingers, before tell-tale signs of snack-attacks became clear from the damage to items around the house. Jessica, who has a three-year-old sister, Jennifer, is now allowed to keep a small purse filled with some of the spongy underlay to eat. Cravings: Jessica's Pica makes her want to eat substances including sponge, sand and even rocks . Worry: Kelly Knight says doctors are unable to treat Jessica until she is six years old . Her mother, who lives in March, Cambridgeshire, with partner Chris Knight, 40, an engineer, said: ‘We’d rather she ate the underlay because it is non-toxic. If we try and stop her we fear she will eat something with chemicals in it.’ Pica is an eating disorder that is characterised by the desire to eat items with little or no nutritional value. These can include stones, sand, paint and dirt. It is most common in people with learning disabilities and during pregnancy. It can cause a range of serious complications if the person is eating something that is poisonous or indigestible. These include being poisoned by toxic ingredients and having a part of the body obstructed (which is often seen in people who eat hair). It can also lead to excessive calorie intake, but also nutritional deprivation if the person eats a substance with no nutritional value instead of nutritious foods. The person can also damage their teeth and be infected with parasites. Experts have examined Jessica but said they cannot intervene until she is six, and old enough to make conscious decisions about what she eats rather than acting on impulse. Fortunately, she does like plain sausages, cheese strings, rice pudding, bread, Weetabix and fish fingers. But her unusual snacks can leave her in agony because they cause stomach cramps and constipation. Despite her tender years, Jessica is aware that her diet is highly unusual, and does worry what people would think of her craving different food. She also shuts her little sister out of their shared room when she is satisfying one of her cravings, saying: ‘I don’t want her to be poorly.’ The family will find out this month if Jessica is on the autistic spectrum, which is often linked to pica. The Challenging Behaviour Foundation, a learning problems charity, said: ‘It is estimated that four to 26 per cent of people with learning disabilities display pica behaviour. ‘Whilst some objects pass through the body without harm, pica can potentially be life-threatening. Risks include vomiting, blockages, choking and poisoning.’ Dr Alison Sansome, clinical director at Cambridgeshire Community Services NHS Trust, added: ‘Pica is a complex condition and treatment is dictated by the specific circumstances in each case.’ Damage: Half of the carpet underlay in Jessica's bedroom has vanished because she has eaten it . Control: Jessica's parents have given her a purse full of bits of sponge to eat .
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Jessica Knight loves eating carpet underlay and furniture stuffing .
She also snacks on sand and rocks even though parents try to stop her .
Family now give her a purse full of sponge to control her cravings .
Jessica suffers from rare condition Pica but doctors say they can't treat her until she is six years old .
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LONDON, England (CNN) -- Record oil prices, the sub-prime mortgage mess and slumping stock markets are hardly music to the ears of investors. In tough economic times like these, investors seek out safe, stable investments such as guaranteed government bonds or CDs. Yet a growing number are being wooed by the sweet sounds, and profits, of something new -- investment funds specializing in high-end musical instruments. The Stradivarius violin -- only about 700 are believed to exist -- is the premier investment instrument. Talented musicians want them, but can't afford them -- one fetched $3.5 million at auction. Enter Nigel Brown, winner of The Queen's Award for Enterprise and Chairman of the NW Brown Group, a financial services company. He brings musician and investor together. "What happens is, a musician comes along to see me, having fallen in love with an instrument," Brown says. "Then, what I do is to pull a syndicate of people together to buy this instrument so that the musician can then have the use of it ..." Down the road, the musician can buy the instrument from the investors. They split the profits if its value appreciates. That's how violinist Matthew Trusler got his $2 million Stradivarius. Brown loved Trusler's playing and funded the instrument himself. "They are just the most fantastic violins that were ever made," Trusler says, clutching his. "This one was made in 1711 ... and it's been around for 300 years and it's a really wonderful violin." Not everyone is convinced a Stradivarius is such a great deal -- particularly modern instrument makers. "I think if you can get hold of one of the very best Strads, not just any Strad ... I think they probably give you, as a player, something special," says violin-maker Andreas Hudelmayer. "But if you can't have one of the very few best, you are just as well off with a new instrument." His reasoning? The cost of insuring a Stradivarius for just a couple of years would pay for a new, top-quality violin, Hudelmayer says. Even so, the reality is that old violins are attracting those looking for alternative investments. A new hedge fund called the Fine Violins Fund is dedicated to top-range instruments. The latest studies show exclusive violins are earning a steady 3.5 percent a year since 1850. That beats U.S. Treasury bonds over the same timeframe, with their 2.19 percent average yield. Of course, you have to be in the investment game for the long haul. "They've proved to be fantastic investments," says Simon Morris, director of Beare's -- a broker and appraiser of high-end violins, violas and cellos. "For many of the musicians that bought say in the 1960s, they've been the best pension plan they could've had. "Like anything, you have to purchase well and sell well. You can't just go and buy any old thing." But for these investors, the financial return is only part of the investment. "The fact they make a financial gain is of course gratifying at the end of the day, but it is mostly the support of the musician," says Brown. "They like being able to go along to a concert and hear their instrument performed by their artist." E-mail to a friend .
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Investors are being wooed by funds specializing in high-end musical instruments .
The Stradivarius violin is the premier investment instrument .
A new hedge fund called the Fine Violins Fund is dedicated to top-range instruments .
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By . Tamara Cohen . Many Labour MPs privately think Ed Miliband will not win next year’s general election, according to former frontbencher Diane Abbott. The outspoken MP told a fundraising dinner that a ‘substantial minority’ of her colleagues did not believe they would form the next government – despite being ahead in the polls. She suggested even those at the top of the party doubted Mr Miliband’s credentials, saying it was ‘problematic’ that many of the Shadow Cabinet had not backed him as leader in 2010. Diane Abbott suggested even those at the top of the party doubted the leader, saying it was ‘problematic’ that many of the shadow cabinet had not backed him as leader in 2010 . Miss Abbott was at the dinner at Monty’s Nepalese restaurant in west London to raise money for Labour’s candidate in Ealing Central, Rupa Huq - the sister of the former Blue Peter presenter Konnie Huq. She was heard saying to senior local Labour figures: ‘Most MPs are worried that we won’t win in May - and that’s not based on figures. ‘Let’s say a substantial minority of Labour MPs don’t think we can win in May — despite the fact that statistically it can look like that. But then they tend to be MPs from outside of London. ‘Ed’s problem, one of his problems, is that he has a Shadow Cabinet and most of them didn’t vote for him, so that is problematic.’ Miss Abbott also apparently said during the unguarded exchange that whichever party forms the next government they would ‘have to put up taxation’, according to the Evening Standard. The MP for Hackney North and regular television personality, was sacked as a public health spokesman by Miliband in his shadow cabinet reshuffle last year. But she was recently revealed as Labour supporters’ top candidate in the next London mayoral elections fuelling speculation she will run. She was responding to a question from chair of the local Labour branch Steve Donnelly, who said: ‘So how does it feel inside the tent Diane at the minute?’ Labour leader Ed Miliband has struggled to overcome doubts even among his own MPs that he has what it takes to be Prime Minister . Over a buffet supper and beers, she said: ‘Whoever wins will have to put up taxation if they are serious. They won’t admit it, but they have to’. And she raised concerns about the shadow chancellor Ed Balls, saying he ‘reminds people of the Brown years, and it allows the Tories to say over and over again, ‘These were the people who crashed the car.’ But actually he is very able.’ Miss Abbott claimed today that the remarks were taken out of context, and insisted that she and most Labour MPs were very confident Labour would win next year’s election. She said: ‘All the polls point steadily in the direction of Ed Miliband winning the election. I did say some Labour MPs are worried, but I don’t think they are a substantial minority.’ Labour currently have a 3-point lead in the polls, but fewer than one in five voters think Ed Miliband looks like a future prime minister. Due to the way the electoral system works, however, the Conservatives will need a 6 per cent lead to win a majority next May. Miss Abbott, who has been an MP since 1987, embarrassed Mr Miliband last year after he made a major speech on immigration. In a newspaper article, she accused him of being too worried about opinion polls, and called on him to resist the ‘steady drumbeat of pressure’ to move to the right on the issue.
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Ex-frontbencher reveals doubts about Labour leader's credentials .
It 'problematic' that many of the shadow cabinet didn't back him in 2010 .
Remarks made at a dinner at Monty’s Nepalese restaurant in west London .
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Russian president Vladimir Putin met the . Pope today - amid claims he is planning to name scandal-mired Silvio . Berlusconi as Russia's ambassador to the Vatican. The pair have defended each other through thick and thin, so the move is hardly surprising for the ever-controversial pair. The Russian president has attended the Italian’s infamous bunga bunga parties while Mr Putin reciprocated with holidays at his dacha on the Black Sea. Friends: It has been claimed Vladimir Putin, left, who met the Pope in Rome's Vatican City, reportedly wants to make disgraced Silvio Berlusconi, right, a Russian ambassador - giving him diplomatic immunity . Pope Francis shakes hand with Russian President Vladimir Putin as they exchange gifts during the private audience at the Vatican City . They have attended extreme fighting events together and Mr Putin even has a bed named after him at the 77-year-old billionaire’s mansion. Now their unlikely bond has taken a new turn, with Mr Putin said to be poised to make the former Italian prime minister the Russian envoy to the Vatican. Such a move would confer diplomatic immunity on Berlusconi – and an escape from his latest legal woes courtesy of his old pal in the Kremlin. After being convicted of tax fraud, the politician is this week facing expulsion from the Italian parliament, a move that would strip him of some legal protection. Putin is on a two-day visit in Italy. He will also meet with Italian President Giorgio Napolitano and Premier Enrico Letta . In September the Pope wrote directly to Putin imploring him to co-operate with other international leaders to help the people of Syria . The three-time premier had hoped for a last minute pardon but Italian President Giorgio Napolitano has made it clear that this is not on his agenda. He is also appealing against a conviction for sex with underage prostitute Ruby ‘the heart-stealer’, and faces a new trial for an alleged £2.5million bribe to a senator. As well as legal immunity, the post would give Berlusconi a diplomatic passport, allowing him to visit his luxury overseas properties – something he has been denied since his old passport was cancelled by the authorities. Putin kisses the gift he presented to Pope Francis during the private audience at the Vatican City . Although the two have clashed over Syria, they agree that outside military intervention will escalate the civil war . Former KGB agent Mr Putin was last night arriving in Rome to meet Pope Francis and Italian ministers but he is also scheduled to meet Berlusconi. A political source told an Italian newspaper: ‘Putin’s idea is clear: he plans to nominate Berlusconi as ambassador to the Holy See, a strategy that would save him from persecution by the judiciary.’ Mr Putin held private talks with Pope Francis about the Syrian conflict, months after the Pope sent him an angry letter criticising the G20's failure to provide more aid. In . September the Pope wrote directly to Putin imploring him to co-operate . with other international leaders to help the people of Syria. Cosy: Berlusconi and Putin are firm friends, despite both being controversial figures on the world stage . Friends: The pair during a mid-air meeting in April 2004. Since then Berlusconi has been given several jail terms . So far the reports that Putin, left, could make Berlusconi, right, a Russian ambassador are unconfirmed . Pope Francis and Putin did agree on one thing, however - they were both against the British and U.S. push for military intervention. Putin refused to take sides in the conflict, while the Pope said it was important that the violence did not escalate. But the pair differ publicly in several areas including on gay rights. While the Pope has reportedly taken a softer line, Putin has cracked down on gay rights and criminalised protests in favour. And there is a long-running religious feud between the Vatican and the Russian Orthodox church, which have been at loggerheads since the fall of the Soviet Union. Russian church figures have accused the Vatican of trying to convert their worshippers to make them Catholic.
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Putin will hold fiery discussion of Syria with Pope Francis .
Italian media have reported Putin could grant special status to Berlusconi .
Former PM has been handed several jail terms and faces another trial .
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Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk signed the political elements of a trade pact with the European Union on Friday, even as Russian lawmakers finalized annexation of Ukraine's Crimea region. The signing in Brussels signals Europe's solidarity with Ukraine -- and carries additional symbolic force because it was the decision by Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych in November to ditch the trade pact in favor of closer ties with Russia that triggered the protests that led to his ouster in February and spiraled into the current crisis. It also comes a day after the European Union and the United States slapped sanctions on Russian lawmakers and businessmen; Russia responded with its own list of sanctions against a number of U.S. lawmakers and officials. In another sign of defiance, Russian President Vladimir Putin, flanked by the speakers of both houses of Parliament, signed a treaty Friday finalizing the accession to Russia of the Crimea region and its port city of Sevastopol. The upper house unanimously approved ratification of the treaty a day after Russia's lower house of Parliament, the State Duma, passed it by an overwhelming margin. The political crisis has been the biggest blow to Russia's relations with the West since the Cold War. In a sign that Western sanctions are already weighing on Russian authorities, Finance Minister Anton Siluanov said Friday in Moscow that the government will have to pay more to borrow money, state news agency ITAR-Tass said. Russia "will look at our oil and gas revenues. If the situation is like it is now, we will probably have to give up external borrowings and cut domestic ones," Siluanov said. Yatsenyuk: EU speaking in one voice . Moscow has doggedly pursued its own course even as Western leaders have denounced its actions as violations of Ukraine's sovereignty and a breach of international law. Though Russia insists that its actions are legitimate, Ukraine's interim government has said Kiev will never stop fighting for Crimea. Human Rights Watch said in a statement Friday that it has concluded that the international law of occupation applies to Russian forces in Crimea. "The occupying party is ultimately responsible for violations of international law committed by local authorities or proxy forces," it said. While in Brussels, Yatsenyuk held talks with European Council President Herman Van Rompuy and European Commission chief Jose Manuel Barroso. He said Russia's ratification of the treaty annexing Crimea is less important than the EU trade pact he has signed with EU leaders. "Frankly speaking, I don't care about Russia signing this deal; I care about Ukraine, Ukrainians and our European future," he said. "This deal covers more existential and most important issues, mainly security and defense cooperation." Yatsenyuk said the European Union would "speak in one single and strong voice" to protect its values and defend Ukraine's territorial integrity. Van Rompuy said the deal "shows our steadfast support for the course the people of Ukraine have courageously pursued." EU travel bans, asset freezes . The European Union confirmed details of the sanctions against 12 Russian officials agreed to late Thursday at the EU Heads of State or Government summit. Those targeted with travel bans and asset freezes include Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin, as well as the chairwoman of the Russian upper house, Valentina Matvienko, and two Putin advisers. "Sanctions are not a question of retaliation; they are a foreign policy tool," Van Rompuy said. "Our goal is to stop Russian action against Ukraine, to restore Ukraine's sovereignty, and to achieve this, we need a negotiated solution." He said the European Union expected soon to finalize approval of the remaining parts of the deal, particularly its economic provisions. British Prime Minister David Cameron said the European Commission will draw up further sanctions -- in finance, military and energy -- for use if the situation escalates. "Europe is, I think, 25% or so reliant on Russian gas," he said. "But if you look at Gazprom's revenues, something like 50% of them come from Europe. So, you know, Russia needs Europe more than Europe needs Russia." Cameron said the measures agreed to in Brussels will carry a cost for Crimea, whose goods would face heavy penalties and tariffs in Europe if they are shipped through Russia, not Ukraine. EU leaders want to see an international observer mission in Crimea, preferably under the aegis of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe but, if not, sent by the European Union, Cameron said. Ban: 'Deeply concerned' A day after speaking with Putin in Moscow, U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon met Friday in Kiev with acting President Oleksandr Turchynov, then told reporters he was "very deeply concerned" by the tensions in parts of Ukraine and between Kiev and Moscow. "These are some of the most traumatic and difficult times in the history of Ukraine," he said. Ban urged a peaceful, diplomatic resolution to the crisis and said all parties should refrain from inflammatory actions and rhetoric. U.N. Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights Ivan Simonovic arrived Friday in Crimea for a two-day visit aimed at laying the groundwork for a U.N. human rights monitoring mission, the United Nations said. He and a team were to meet with Crimean leaders, the head of the Crimean Tatar minority and others, including the families of Ukrainian servicemen, the United Nations said. The United Nations and other organizations stand ready to assist with the country's elections, slated to be held May 25, Ban said. While in Kiev, he was also planning to meet with Yatsenyuk and other ministers and lawmakers. In another sign of solidarity with Ukraine, France is offering to strengthen a NATO air-policing mission in the Baltic area by sending four jets, a Defense Ministry spokesman said Friday. The offer, accepted by the Baltic states, was extended Friday as French Defense Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian traveled to Lithuania, Estonia and Poland, said Sacha Mandel, the minister's communication adviser. His trip followed a visit to the Baltics this week by Vice President Joe Biden. Putin's inner circle . The U.S. sanctions announced Thursday target 20 people seen as close to Putin, as well as a bank, Rossiya, believed to serve the President and senior Russian officials. Putin rejected the putative link. "I personally didn't have an account there, but I'll definitely open it on Monday," he said Friday, according to the Kremlin. The individuals named by the U.S. Treasury include Putin allies in the Kremlin and in business. Among the 16 government officials are Putin's chief of staff, Sergei Ivanov; the speaker of the State Duma, Sergey Naryshkin; and Viktor Ozerov, chairman of the Security and Defense Committee of the Russian Parliament's upper house. Four others were named as members of the government's inner circle. They are financier Yuri Kovalchuk, labeled Putin's personal banker by a senior U.S. administration official; magnate Gennady Timchenko, whose activities in the energy sector have been directly linked to Putin, according to the Treasury; and businessmen Arkady and Boris Rotenberg. Washington aid . In Washington, the House Foreign Affairs Committee introduced a bill Friday that provides aid to Ukraine. "The United States must stand with the people of Ukraine in the wake of Russia's attack on and occupation of Crimea," said ranking member Eliot Engel, D-New York, in a statement. "It sends a clear message to President Putin and his corrupt cronies that we will not tolerate Russian aggression." The House had passed a loan-guarantee bill and a non-binding resolution calling for sanctions, but Friday's legislation proposes statutory language to put those sanctions into law. President Barack Obama is to meet next week with other leaders of the so-called G7 group of industrialized nations, on the sidelines of a nuclear summit in the Netherlands. Russia has been excluded from the talks. Obama signed an executive order that authorizes further sanctions on key sectors of the Russian economy if Moscow does not act to deescalate the situation. Sanctions affect Russian markets . Washington had already announced sanctions Monday on 11 individuals; the European Union had imposed travel bans and asset freezes on 21 people. Swedish Foreign Minister Carl Bildt told CNN's Christiane Amanpour that the new round of U.S. sanctions would be "significantly more powerful than the first one." The latest round "hits significant economic interests that are fairly close to the ruling circles in Moscow," he said. "It will be noticed." Markets were down Friday in Moscow, amid uncertainty in the business community. The Moscow Interbank Curency Exchange, or MICEX index, fell more than 2% -- bringing its 2014 losses to 14%. The ruble rebounded after falling early in the day; it has lost about 10% since the start of the year. In contrast, the markets and ruble had risen Monday, when the first round of sanctions was announced and did not appear to target those in Putin's inner circle. The business community now appears to fear that Putin is on a collision course with the West, and that that could undermine its interests. Russia's Foreign Ministry said Friday that it had asked Putin to draft countermeasures in response to the expanded Western sanctions. On Thursday, Moscow imposed measures against nine U.S. officials and lawmakers, including House Speaker John Boehner, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Sens. John McCain, Robert Menendez, Daniel Coats and Mary Landrieu, according to the Russian Foreign Ministry. Russia sanctions: EU should leave trade alone . Sanctions on Russia: Would World Cup boycott hit harder? Opinion: Putin's breathtaking lies about Russia . Crimea remarries -- but that divorce will be messy . CNN Money: U.S. targets Putin's banker, threatens trade . Editors' Note: This article has been edited to remove plagiarized content after CNN discovered multiple instances of plagiarism by Marie-Louise Gumuchian, a former CNN news editor.
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"Russia needs Europe more than Europe needs Russia," Cameron says .
Russia's President Vladimir Putin signs law allowing joining of Crimea to Russia .
EU leaders and Ukraine's PM sign the political part of a Ukraine-EU trade deal .
Tough U.S. and EU sanctions have been imposed on members of Putin's inner circle .
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By . Rob Shepherd . Follow @@robshepherd5 . Most . of the debate leading up to England's showdown with Uruguay has been . about Wayne Rooney and where he should play or if at all. That . big debate has disguised the fact that England skipper Steven Gerrard . was far from a commanding figure against Italy and he certainly didn't . pull any strings in his new quarter back role in comparison to Andrea . Pirlo for Italy. But in Gerrard's defence he did hold his position and thus helped England keep their shape for most of the game. Against . Uruguay though Gerrard must impose himself more. If not then Roy . Hodgson must not be afraid to sub his captain and put on Frank Lampard. Otherwise what was the point in picking the former Chelsea man in the . first place? One aspect of England's opening game defeat to Italy was the sporting spirit which it was played in with the sole yellow card falling to Raheem Sterling late on for a blatant 'technical foul'. Dutch referee Bjorn Kuipers deserves much credit for how he allowed the game to flow but it could be another story in the Three Lions' clash against Uruguay on Thursday. Spanish referee Carlos Carballo has a reputation of being an over-fussy official who at one stage of his career averaged six yellow cards a game. He is now a bit less trigger happy but in the Euro 2012 opener between Poland and Greece he issued two red cards. Seeing yellow: Raheem Sterling (left) was the only player to be booked during England's 2-1 defeat to Italy . Trigger happy: Referee Carlos Carbello (left) sent off two players in the Euro 2012 opener of Poland vs Greece . It's interesting to note that while Sterling was the stand out player against Italy, covering 6.52 miles, two England players travelled further in the match. Wayne Rooney clocked up 6.97 miles while Gerrard covered 6.58 - which just goes to show why that kind of stat is often meaningless. Working up a sweat: Wayne Rooney (left) ran 6.97 miles during England's Group D opener against Italy . While Roy Hodgson looks set to tinker with his system against Uruguay, if not personnel, Holland boss Louis van Gaal is revealing to Manchester United fans one his great strengths as a coach ahead of next season. The 62-year-old has a well thought-out plan and team in his mind and he sticks to it. Holland named the same starting line-up for their first two World Cup Group B wins, against Spain and Australia, with the starting eleven numbered 1-11 - making them the only the nation to have done that so far. Talk about having a plan. It also suggests Van Gaal won't succumb to Wayne Rooney deciding where he wants to play at Old Trafford. Tactical genius: Louis van Gaal has masterminded Holland to two wins out of two at the World Cup . The have been some truly stunning goals at the his World Cup but precious few long range scorchers. Holland's late winner struck by Memphis Depay, whose name sounds like a Blues singer, was a rarity. Thus far only 13 per cent of goals have been stuck from more than 20 yards. Scorcher: Memphis Depay scored Holland's winner their 3-2 victory vs Australia with a long-range strike . Look Out For . If you can manage to carry on after the England match then Japan's Keisuke Honda is a player to keep an eye out for. The AC Milan midfielder scored a super goal and oozed class in Japan's 2-1 defeat to the Ivory Coast but they should bounce back against Greece if Honda produces similar form. Top draw: Keisuke Honda (front) enjoyed a fine performance in Japan's 2-1 defeat to Ivory Coast . World Cup Bet . The bookies make Daniel Sturridge a slight favourite to draw first blood in the SAS showdown at 5-1 to score the opening goal while Luis Suarez is 6-1. This might sound a bit left field but I just fancy Leighton Baines, who got unfair stick after the Italy game, at 22-1. If England get an early free kick in his 'zone' then it could happen. Brazil remain 7-2 favourites to win the tournament but Holland have been cut to 11-1. Could this at long last but an Oranje summer? Worth a punt? Daniel Sturridge is the bookies favourites to score first in England's clash against Uruguay . World Cup Memory . It became one of the most tragic episodes in football history. Much fancied Columbia flopped at the 1994 World Cup finals not least because of the influence drug cartels and betting syndicates around the squad. They were knocked out when defender Andres Escobar scored an own goal in defeat to the USA. A few days later having returned home to Medellin, Escobar was shot dead outside a bar after a row with some gangsters. Sorely missed: Andres Escobar was sadly killed after Colombia's exit at the 1994 World Cup .
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Steven Gerrard must impose himself against Uruguay on Thursday .
Gerrard held his position well against Italy but was outshone by Andrea Pirlo .
If Gerrard fails to deliver Roy Hodgson should sub him for Frank Lampard .
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Title: Innovative Eco-Friendly Hydrogen Buses to Hit Roads in Major City
In an exciting leap towards sustainable urban transportation, the city of San Francisco has announced plans to introduce a fleet of hydrogen buses powered by fuel cells. The zero-emission vehicles will hit the roads next year as part of a pilot program aiming to combat air pollution and reduce carbon footprint.
These state-of-the-art hydrogen buses, developed in collaboration with leading automotive manufacturers, are expected to significantly cut down greenhouse gas emissions while providing comfortable and efficient rides for passengers. The fuel cells convert hydrogen stored in tanks on the vehicle into electricity, powering the electric motors, with only water vapor being released as exhaust.
"Transitioning to cleaner and more eco-friendly public transportation is essential for our city's future," said Mayor Breed. "We are proud to lead the way in adopting cutting-edge technology that prioritizes the health of our residents, visitors, and planet."
The introduction of hydrogen buses follows San Francisco's successful implementation of electric trolley buses and the city's commitment to becoming carbon neutral by 2040. City officials expect these hydrogen buses to play a crucial role in meeting this ambitious goal.
Residents and commuters alike are looking forward to witnessing the benefits of these eco-friendly vehicles on San Francisco's roads, signaling progress towards a greener and cleaner future for urban transportation.
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The city of San Francisco is planning to introduce a fleet of hydrogen buses powered by fuel cells as part of a pilot program next year. These zero-emission buses are expected to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions while providing comfortable and efficient rides. The fuel cells convert hydrogen stored in tanks on the vehicle into electricity, releasing only water vapor as exhaust. This initiative is part of San Francisco's commitment to becoming carbon neutral by 2040 and is seen as a step towards a greener future for urban transportation.
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(CNN) -- A police chief who allegedly used a false identity to buy as many as 192 houses in cities in China's southern province of Guangdong has sparked outrage on social media amid a growing scandal over corrupt officials amassing fortunes on the inflated property market. Zhao Haibin, a senior police official in Lufeng in the southern province of Guangdong, had been accused by a local businessman of using a fake ID on company documents to acquire the properties, the Guangzhou Daily reported. "A police official openly had two IDs and used the other one to do business and cheat others. Why (does) nobody probe the case?" local businessman Huang Kunyi was quoted as saying on state-run China Daily. Zhao acknowledged possessing double IDs - known as hukou in Chinese - but denied having 192 houses, Xinhua reported. He was reported in Chinese media as saying that he was managing the properties on behalf of his younger brother. Authorities told Xinhua that Zhao -- who is also a local Communist Party official -- had had the fake ID revoked and that he had been dismissed from his post. The case has drawn a sharp response on China's lively social media. "(I) finally realized that in China, properties are forever in the hands of a tiny number of people," a user of China's Twitter-like Sina Weibo was reported as saying. The case follows other high-profile instances of high-ranking officials using fake IDs and their positions to speculate on China's overheated property market. On Monday, police arrested Gong Aiai -- a bank official from a rural bank in China -- who allegedly built a real estate empire worth at least $160 million using fake IDs and graft. Dubbed "House Sister" in the Chinese media, Gong allegedly used three false national identity cards to buy 45 properties in three cities, 41 of which were in Beijing where China's expanding property bubble is at its hottest. The high-profile cases have captured the public imagination in a country where national identity cards limit the number of apartments a person can own -- part of a policy to cool China's rampant property market. The use of fake IDs also points to corruption among the police who issue the cards, and authorities have detained four police officers on suspicion of helping Gong obtain the cards, the Ministry of Public Security said. There are fears the abuse of hukou - which registers a person place of residence in China - and the ID system may hamper the government's fight against corruption. "It could also provide the chance for officials fleeing abroad to use a passport registered with a fake ID card. Officials, with their real identities, have to hold official passports that would leave behind records for police," Fang Qiongming, a police officer from the city of Jieyang's public security bureau, told the Global Times. The cases have also highlighted the precarious role of construction which has come to dominate China's economy, accounting for roughly 25% of all activity and 15% of all jobs. The injection of stimulus money following the 2008 financial crisis has led to the rise of newly built ghost cities -- satellite cities built without thought for any sustainable market -- as stimulus money finds its way into construction. Analysts say that more worrying still has been the rapid expansion of China's shadow banking system. Unorthodox loans, which often come in the form of trust loans and so-called wealth management products, have gone into fund real estate development and have been criticized for having short maturities that are difficult to roll over during times of financial stress.
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Chinese police chief dismissed over probe into properties .
Allegations center on a portfolio of 192 houses in cities in Guangdong province .
The scandal follows similar cases of corruption involving fake IDs .
China's overheated property market has become a focus for speculators .
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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 09:48 EST, 13 February 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 18:21 EST, 13 February 2013 . A representative for John Galliano has responded to the outrage over his outfit yesterday that appeared to resemble traditional . Hasidic Jewish clothing. The designer, who was fired from . Christian Dior in March 2011 after several drunken outbursts . and anti-Semitic remarks in a Paris cafe, was seen before the Oscar de la Renta show yesterday in a long black . jacket, charcoal homburg-style hat and hair in the style of twirled peyos - long sidelocks grown to demonstrate faith. But this evening, his spokesperson Liz Rosenberg insisted that the look was nothing more than a high fashion one, and that any suggestion that it was a comment on the Hasidic community is 'totally inaccurate'. Controversial clothing: John Galliano made a small but loud return to the fashion word yesterday, making his way to Oscar de la Renta's Fashion Week show dressed in an outfit that resembled Hasidic Jewish clothing . 'Mr Galliano has worn big hats and . has had long curly hair for many years,' she told MailOnline. 'He was in . designer attire from head-to-toe including a Stephen Jones hat and . Yohji Yamamoto pants.' Ms Rosenberg did not issue any kind of apology for yesterday's outfit, but did state that Mr Galliano 'continues to be committed to . making amends and seeking forgiveness from the Jewish community for his . insensitive remarks two years ago.' She added that 'he remains focused on his sobriety . daily' and 'has met with Jewish leaders around the world... '[He] continues to . make a sincere and heartfelt effort to understand his actions and demonstrate his contrition.' Mr Galliano, who had been helping Oscar de la Renta prepare for last night's . fall 2013 collection, shocked New York's Jewish community with his enseble yesterday. 'Mr Galliano has worn big hats and . has had long curly hair for many years. He was in . designer attire from head-to-toe' Williamsburg community leader Isaac Abraham told the New York Post: 'He’s trying to embarrass people in the Jewish community and make money on clothes [while] dressed like people he has insulted. 'It looks like the hairstyle he added was done purposely to insult,' he added. 'I would invite Mr. de la Renta and . Galliano to come to Williamsburg, Brooklyn, so I can show them some . Holocaust survivors and the clothes they [wear].' Meanwhile rabbi and fashion designer Tobi . Rubinstein Schneier commented: 'This was not very smart, unless he really . wants attention. I’m hoping that this is not in any way a mockery . through this attire.' Because Galliano was nowhere to be seen . front-of-house at de la Renta’s Tuesday night show, with visitors unable . to enter backstage, it is unclear if the controversial outfit was seen . by fashion industry critics at the event. But after the incident at Paris' La Perle . cafe, in which Galliano was video-recorded saying 'I love Hitler,' before telling an Italian woman, who wasn't . Jewish: 'People like you would be dead. Your mothers, your forefathers, . would all be f****** gassed,' being seen publicly in the distinguishing outfit was enough to ruffle feathers. FAshion friends: Galliano (left) returned to . the fashion word, temporarily, with a three week stint at Oscar de la . Renta's (right) studio in the lead up to his New York Fashion Week show . Brooklyn Assemblyman Dov Hikind said: 'Who is he mocking? The way the socks look, the jacket, the peyos . . . My question is, who’s he laughing at? 'If it was just anyone else, I wouldn’t . know what to say. But considering who this guy is, considering his . background and what he’s said in the past, let him explain it to all of . us: Are you mocking us?' Twitter users have also expressed their thoughts on Mr Galliano's outfit choice, which many found 'insulting' and 'shameful'. Beauty blogger Michelle Jones wrote: 'John Galliano- why? The House that Oscar de la Renta built is giving you a chance- must you mock it?' 'Is John Galliano really so talented that the world must put up with his shameful antics?' Another tweeted: 'Is John Galliano really so talented that the world must put up with his shameful antics?' But the fashion industry appears to be coming to the designer's defense. Steven Kolb, CEO of the CFDA, said the attacks against the designer were 'unfair.' He tweeted this morning: 'That is John's hair and how he dresses and certainly not a mockery of others,' before adding, 'Lets all take a deep breath, relax and remember it's just clothes!' Others disagreed. Mark Ferdman replied to Mr Kolb, tweeting: 'Show me [a] few more pics of him dressed like that over the past couple months, years and I'll consider that POV.' Galliano, who faced a maximum of six . months in jail on charges of 'public insults based on origin, religious . affiliation, race or ethnicity,' blamed work-related stress . and multiple substance addictions for his Paris outbursts, which he says he . can not remember. He was stripped of his Chevalier of the . Legion of Honor and ordered to pay suspended fines of 6,000 euros, as well as symbolic . damages and costs to each of his victims and to five anti-racism groups who were also complainants. Fashion comeback: Galliano was en route to Oscar de la Renta's fall 2013 Fashion Week show held last night; which Galliano spent three weeks helping the designer prepare . But . two years later, Galliano, . who designed Kate Moss' wedding dress in July 2011, seemed hopeful to . reintegrate himself into the fashion industry after his fall from grace - . the first step being a three week stint at Oscar de la Renta's studio . in the lead up to his New York Fashion Week show. 'I am an alcoholic,' Galliano . admitted to WWD last month, before explaining his readiness a return to the industry. 'I . have been in recovery for the past two years...I remain committed to making amends to those I have hurt. 'Several years prior to my sobriety, I descended into the . madness of the disease. I said and did things which hurt others, . especially members of the Jewish community. I have expressed my sorrow . privately and publicly for the pain which I caused, and I continue to do . so.' 'That is John's hair and how he dresses . and certainly not a mockery of others... Lets all take a . deep breath, relax and remember it's just clothes!' The Anti-Defamation League issued a statement defending the designer today, saying: 'There is no truth to [the] accusation that John Galliano was dressed in Hasidic garb, and anyone familiar with the dress of traditional Orthodox Jews should not mistake what Galliano is wearing in the photograph as ‘Hasidic garb. 'Hasidim do not wear fedora hats, pinstripe pants, blue jackets or an ascot tie,' he wrote. De la Renta, who called Galliano an 'immense talent,' also said last month: 'I think John is doing all the right things. Everyone in life deserves a second chance, especially someone as . talented as John. I think that life is about forgiving and helping . people.…I think John is doing all the right things.' Whether or not yesterday's outfit constitutes 'doing the right thing,' is debatable, however. One observing Lower East Side resident . told MailOnline: 'Either Galliano is so deluded that he thinks wearing . an outfit inspired by the dress of Hasidic Jews is some kind of apology, . or it is simply another callous insult from someone who is already . known as a drunken anti-Semite. Either way he's an a**hole.'
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The former Christian Dior designer sparked fury from New York's Jewish community after stepping out in a long black jacket, charcoal homburg-style hat and hair in the style of twirled peyos .
Mr Galliano was fired from Christian Dior in March 2011 after several drunken outbursts and anti-Semitic remarks in a Paris cafe .
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By . Associated Press . PUBLISHED: . 16:48 EST, 8 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 16:48 EST, 8 May 2013 . A man whose six-year-old son was killed in the Sandy Hook elementary school massacre was scheduled to appear on Wednesday in Connecticut Superior Court on larceny and other charges. Neil Heslin, the father of Jesse Lewis - a six-year-old victim of the Newtown shooting - was scheduled to appear in Connecticut Superior Court today on charges stemming from bad checks he allegedly tried to pass from July 2011. Heslin, who has lobbied for stricter gun-control laws, faces at least three charges that he issued bad checks to pay for building materials for the construction company he owns. Grief: Neil Heslin, father of six-year-old Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting victim Jesse Lewis, had a court appearance scheduled for today over alleged bad checks . In two other cases, Heslin allegedly tried to pass a check from a closed account, in one case for more than $1,000 in home heating oil, and another for $102 in repairs on a vehicle at a local tire shop, according to the News-Times of Danbury. Heslin's legal troubles have led to criticism from his pro-gun opponents. Superior Court Judge Frank Iannotti ordered Heslin to explain on Wednesday why he was not in court on April 15. Heslin . was part of a contingent from Newtown that was meeting with U.S. senators that week, asking them to pass legislation that would have . included universal background checks for gun purchases. Heslin was asked by the News-Times if he thought his legal troubles might undermine his advocacy efforts. 'I . never gave it much thought. I guess you can look at it either way," he . told the newspaper. 'If there's something to talk about, people are . going to talk about it, good or bad, no matter what.' Heslin's son, Jesse, was among 26 people shot dead inside Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14. People gather at a makeshift memorial near the school following the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 15, 2012 in Newtown, Connecticut .
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Neil Heslin accused of passing bad checks dating back to 2011 related to his construction company .
Critics using legal troubles to undermine Heslin's gun-control advocacy .
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Sportsmail takes a look at 10 things we have learned from an entertaining weekend of Premier League and Football League fixtures. 1. Arsenal’s problems keeping the ball at Anfield began from the back where goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, who normally likes to roll the ball out to a defender to start play, was forced to kick it long. He launched all but two of 33 passes into Liverpool’s half – so not surprising that barely a third of them reached another Arsenal player. It set an uncharacteristic tone for the Gunners. Their total of just 36.5 per cent possession was the lowest total recorded by an Arsene Wenger side in a Premier League game since records began in 2003. Wojciech Szczesny contributed to Arsenal's poor possession record against Liverpool at Anfield . 2. Nobody works harder for a team than James Milner, even when he is asked to play out of position. The England midfielder responded to Manuel Pellegrini’s request to play at centre forward by making more sprints (71) than any other Manchester City player, and covering more miles (6.7) in his 82 minutes than all but Jesus Navas managed in 90. For good measure he set up Yaya Toure for the third goal and made two other chances in the 3-0 win over Palace. Manchester City midfielder James Milner put in a shift up-front against Crystal Palace on Saturday . 3. Aston Villa goalkeeper Brad Guzan has added a confidence coming off his line to his shot-stopping. The USA international made eight saves to help end Manchester United’s six-game winning run, but it was his willingness to catch crosses that made the biggest contribution as ten-man Villa held on to a 1-1 draw. Guzan used his 6ft 4ins frame to come out and make six catches in all – more than any other Premier League keeper this weekend. Aston Villa goalkeeper Brad Guzan makes one of eight saves in his side's 1-1 draw with Manchester United . 4. Will Buckley showed his determination to force his way back into Gus Poyet’s starting team with a match turning nine minutes after coming on for Sunderland at Newcastle. The 25-year-old, who followed Poyet from Brighton in the summer for just £2.5million, sprinted the length of the field to set up Adam Johnson’s dramatic winner seconds after heading away a corner on his own six yard box. He ran a remarkable 1.5 miles during his brief time on the pitch – and set up three other chances as well as the winning goal. Sunderland midfielder Will Buckley (right) wins the ball from Newcastle's Fabricio Coloccini at St James' Park . 5. Nigel Pearson can be a gambler if he’s chasing a game – he used all three subs at the same time with nearly half an hour left shortly after Stewart Downing had scored West Ham’s second goal. It’s the second time since bringing Leicester into the Premier League that he’s risked leaving himself with ten men if anybody gets injured. He did the same thing when his side were 2-0 down with 22 minutes to go at Swansea in October. Sadly for Pearson his boldness failed to change the game both times. On each occasion the Foxes went on to lose 2-0. Leicester boss Nigel Pearson made all three of his substitutions with almost 30 minutes left against West Ham . 6. Kyle Walker’s return from the abdominal injury that had kept him out since early March has added an extra attacking threat to Tottenham’s back four. The 24-year-old England full back played more accurate passes in Burnley’s half than any other Spurs defender in the 2-1 win over Burnley as Mauricio Pochettino’s side stretched their recent run to 16 points from eight games. Walker has recovered his pace since undergoing surgery, too. He recorded the quickest average speed of any Tottenham player. Fit-again Kyle Walker was Tottenham's quickest player in their 2-1 win against Burnley at White Hart Lane . 7. Swansea’s Garry Monk is still a relative rookie after less than a year as a Premier League boss but he’s not afraid to take big decisions. He made seven changes to the team that had unluckily lost to Spurs a week earlier – including dropping top scorer Wilfried Bony – for the trip to Hull and was rewarded with a 1-0 win. It’s fair to assume the Ivory Coast international will be back on Boxing Day, though. His one shot on target in a 14 minute cameo as a sub was more than Frenchman Bafetimbi Gomis managed in the previous 76 minutes. VIDEO Monk delighted by showing despite personnel change . Swansea boss Garry Monk decided to start top-scorer Wilfriend Bony on the bench against Hull City . 8. One of the first priorities on Eddie Howe’s list when he returned to Bournemouth two years ago was to persuade Marc Pugh to sign a new contract. The talented winger had previously turned down new deals insisting he wanted to play in a higher division. With just 18 months left on that agreement, it might be worth Howe talking to the 27-year-old again to tie him down a bit longer. Pugh has now hit six goals in the last nine games for the top of the Championship side. Bournemouth midfielder Marc Pugh (right) squeezes the ball past Blackpool goalkeeper Joe Lewis . 9. Peter Taylor’s status as a former England boss isn’t keeping too many critics off his back as Gillingham battle at the lower end of League One. The 61-year-old suffered abuse from Gills fans as his team clawed their way back from two down at home to Chesterfield only to lose to Jimmy Ryan’s volley. It seemed tough on Taylor – his team had been unbeaten in six matches before Saturday. Gillingham manager Peter Taylor is under pressure after a defeat by Chesterfield at home . 10. Yeovil might need to spend pretty quickly some of the £250,000 plus bounty that a glamour FA Cup tie with Manchester United will bring them. Four days after their efforts to win a replay with Accrington that secured the bonanza TV tie, Gary Johnson’s side lost 1-0 at home to relegation rivals Colchester. And with a Boxing Day trip to League One leaders Bristol City followed by another six-pointer against Leyton Orient, they could find themselves bottom of the table by the time Wayne Rooney and co turn up at Huish Park on January 4th.
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James Milner made more sprints than any other Manchester City player .
Aston Villa's Brad Guzan made eight saves against Manchester United .
Kyle Walker was Tottenham's quickest player against Burnley .
Will Buckley was Sunderland's super sub against Newcastle on Sunday .
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Oslo, Norway (CNN) -- Anders Behring Breivik's defense counsel had warned that the self-confessed killer would show no remorse. And that was clear from the start. No sooner were his handcuffs removed in the than he raised his arm in a fascist-style salute -- a symbol, to quote his wordy manifesto, of "strength, power and defiance against Marxist tyrants." He announced he did not believe in the authority of the Oslo court. His plea then followed: not guilty, though he acknowledged his acts. He claimed he was acting "from necessity." Rampage suspect says he acted to save Norway . He sat in the court on the first day of the trial Monday wearing a suit, no handcuffs, no restraints, no cage as you might see in other countries -- not even for a mass murderer. There were smiles and handshakes with the psychiatrists and prosecution at the start. The only barrier was bullet-proof glass between him and the family members, built to protect him rather than the other way around. This is after all Norway, a country that prides itself on its liberal values. It is a country that has endeavored, as the Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg promised shortly after the attacks last year, to respond with "more openness, more democracy and more humanity" to these most inhuman of crimes which left 77 people dead. And that is what they are doing -- taking pride in the fact they are a society who will respect Breivik's human rights, even when he showed no respect for the lives of others. This is why Geir Lippestad, Breivik's defense lawyer, took on this most difficult of jobs. "I remember I woke up my wife, or she woke up by the same telephone call," he told reporters back in March. "She's a nurse and she said 'if he had arrived at the hospital with gunshot wounds, the doctors and nurses would have helped him, they'd do their job. You are a lawyer, so don't you want to do your job?'" "He was so close to having a bullet between his eyes, the police were so close," said Jorn Overby, who rescued 15 people from the waters off Utoya island on the fateful evening of July 22, 201. When I press him about whether he felt that would have been the best thing for him, he replied: "I owe him a punch in the face for firing at me." But his desire for revenge stops there. "He will get the treatment he needs," he said. These are people who would prefer never to have to speak Breivik's name again. On the Dagbladet website you can now press a button to opt out of news relating to the deadly attacks. There is a sense the people of Norway want to see due process done and then move on. They are a people who believe their system works, which is why no matter how unspeakable his crimes and how hard these months are and will continue to be, Breivik has not been able to break them.
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No sooner were his handcuffs removed than Anders Breivik raised his arm in a salute .
"I acknowledge the acts but do not plead guilty," he told the court .
Magnay: He showed no remorse for the killing of 77 in Norway last year .
Rescuer tells CNN: Breivik was so close to having a bullet between his eyes .
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By . Daily Mail Reporter . Abuser: Dan Kirby Kopp, 45, would routinely beat his wife for being 'disrespectful' and not addressing him as 'sir' A Pennsylvania man has been found guilty of beating his wife with a wooden spoon because she did not address him as 'sir'. Dan Kirby Kopp lashed out at his wife when he found her 'disrespectful' towards him in front of their children. The 45-year-old from Ephrata, Pennsylvania would routinely beat his now-estranged wife with the spoon or his hand, a court heard. Kopp was filmed by his wife during a beating which took place in September 2012. Jurors at Lancaster Country court were shown the tape where the 6ft5in 230lbs Kopp threatens his wife with a wooden paddle. The . video shows Kopp showing her the spoon and giving her a 'count of three . to comply' with his demand of addressing him with a 'yes, sir' in front . of the couple's children. He is also heard threatening to 'cast the demons out of her' next time she disobeyed him. According . to charging documents, Kopp would regularly hold his wife down over his . knee and spank her, so she would 'learn a lesson.' One month after she filmed the abuse on . her phone, Kopp's wife went to local police to report the regular . beatings to the authorities. She told officers he would abuse her as a 'means of disciplining her for disobedience to him for undermining his parenting,' The Lancaster New Era reports. Kopp was convicted of misdemeanor stalking and harassment, following a 'cycle of abuse and intimidation', according to the charging documents. Verdict: Kopp posted a response to the verdict on Tuesday after being found guilty of harassment . He was . sentenced Tuesday to serve from one to 23 months in prison and one year of parole. He has also been subjected to a restraining order and is not allowed to contact his wife. As a result of the couple's young family, the judge also imposed that Kopp and his wife . stay at least 50 yards apart from each other during school or sporting . events.
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Dan Kirby Kopp, 45, was found guilty of beating his wife with a spoon .
Kopp would spank his wife when she did not address him as 'sir'
Kopp was sentenced to up to 23 months with one year of parole .
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A stunning waterfront property in one of Sydney’s most affluent suburbs has sold for a staggering $27 million in an off-market deal. Located on Dumaresq Road in Rose Bay, the beautiful three-storey home delivers an outstanding beachfront allotment with spectacular views of the city and the Harbour Bridge. The sale comes after the previous owners - technology innovator Kevin Bermeister and his wife Beverley - purchased a $9.5million luxurious clifftop property in Dover Heights back in August. Scroll down for video . One of Sydney’s most affluent suburbs has sold a waterfront property for a staggering price in an off-market deal for $27 million . The Sydney entrepreneur was born in South Africa before living in the Rose Bay mansion with his family near the water for the past few years. Bermeister, who created the file sharing service called Kazaa, reached a $150 million settlement in 2005 after being sued by the music industry over his business. Although it's not traditionally one of the more glamorous rooms in any home, this property's stunning bathroom could surely compete with any in Sydney. It offers panoramic views from the tub across to the city and Harbour Bridge - perfect for the new owners to kick off after a long day. The stunning three-storey property features waterfront views - overlooking the city and Sydney Harbour Bridge . Experts believe the new home owners could be from overseas. The sale follows after the new owners missed out on the Point Piper oceanfront property when it sold in October for a cool $30 million, according to Domain. While the sale tops an impressive run of pre-Christmas sales, the real estate agent has been kept under wraps but McGrath Estate Agents' Ben Collier might be the man behind the deal. The 789 square metre modern property has had a major overhaul by architect Bruce Stafford since it was last traded in 2006 for an asking price of $14.2 million, Domain reports. The whopping sale has broken the Rose Bay record after a contemporary waterfront home on Bayview Hill Road sold for $18.2 million in 2006. Inspired design elements fully capitalise on the sheer magnificence of the setting, it has expansive formal living and dining framed in glass . The luxury pad features a spacious living room and entertainment areas - perfect for the family and guests . The stunning architectural home offers a peaceful vibe and modern designs - quirky abstract tiles and lighting . One of the stunning features in the luxury pad is the bathrooms - it offers a great and peaceful way - perfect for the new owners to kick off their shoes after a long day and relax in the bathtub - sipping away their red wine .
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One of Sydney’s stunning properties has sold in private deal for $27 million .
The luxurious three-storey overlooks the city and Sydney Harbour Bridge .
Technology innovator Kevin Bermeister and his wife were previous owners .
Experts believe the new home owners could be from overseas .
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By . Emily Allen . PUBLISHED: . 05:43 EST, 18 June 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 06:12 EST, 18 June 2012 . The most expensive beach hut in Britain has sold for a staggering £170,000 in just two days of going on the market. The wooden structure on an isolated spit has no running hot water or washing facilities and requires a 30 minute walk, a ride on a land-train or a short ferry trip to get there. Yet estate agents were overcome with interest in the 18ft by 10ft timber retreat and a bidding frenzy meant the hut was able to command the record price. Sold: This is Britain's most expensive beach hut which has sold for £170,000 in just two days in bidding frenzy . The immaculately-decorated hut on Mudeford Spit near Christchurch, Dorset, boasts stunning dual views of the harbour on one side and The Solent on the other. The surge in beach hut sales is at odds with the national housing market that is struggling in the financial climate. The Mudeford sandbank is recognised has having the most expensive huts in the country, although the previous highest price paid for one was £126,000 three months ago. Comfortable: The galley kitchen in the wooden hut even has a stove, fridge and a sink with running water . Bedtime: The hut sleeps six but a bylaw dictates people can only stay overnight between March and October . Relaxing: The hut also has solar panels on the roof to provide electricity for lighting . The £170,000 sum could buy an 'exceptional detached villa' with three bedrooms near Glasgow. It could also buy a Grade II listed cottage in the historic market town of Wymondham in Norfolk or a luxury three bedroom detached house in Hull. Hut 97 at Mudeford has solar panels on the roof to provide electricity for lighting and a 12V pump system that supplies water from a tap. It has a fitted kitchen with gas oven and fridge which can be powered by a battery or gas. Views: Sunbathers can see The Solent and the Habour (which would be more stunning without rain clouds) Big business: There are 350 beach huts at Mudeford (pictured) which normally sell for about £140,000 each . There is a separate bedroom on the . ground floor two single beds in the cramped confines of the roof eaves . plus a sofa bed in the living space. Although six people can sleep there, a local bylaw only allows overnight stays from March through to October. On top of the asking price, the new owners will have to pay a ground rent to the local council of £2,500 a year. It has been bought by a wealthy family with grown-up children from Christchurch. Storage: There's space in the ground floor of the hut to store beach equipment such as sun loungers and boats . Luxury: A wealthy family from Christchurch have bought the beach hut - one of 350 in the local area . Andrew Denison, from Denisons Estate Agents in Christchurch, said: 'The hut is positioned side-on with views of the harbour and the sea and the Isle of Wight, making it quite rare. 'The dual aspect views and the fact it is such a good size meant that as soon as we put it on the website people found it appealing. 'There was a frenzy of people interested and appointments were booked very quickly. 'The most expensive hut we have sold before went for £126,000 last month and we usually put them on the market for about £140,000. 'But, this hut is plush and a fantastic size so I think that is why it went so fast and for so much, I don’t know of any that have sold for this sort of figure. 'It must be one of the most expensive beach huts in Britain, I haven’t seen any go for more money than this.' There are about 350 beach huts at Mudeford that make up the 23,000 huts in Britain.
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The 18ft long wooden hut has no running hot water or washing facilities and requires 30 minute walk to get there .
However, it does have stunning views of the harbour and The Solent and can sleep up to six people .
Buyers could have bought a three-bed detached villa near Glasgow or Grade II listed cottage in Norfolk with the same money .
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Dinner lady: Alison Waldock, 51, has been sacked after forgetting the dietary requirements of a seven-year-old Muslim pupil and serving her gammon . A school dinner lady with 11 years service has been sacked after she accidentally served pork to a Muslim pupil. Alison Waldock, 51, gave gammon to a seven-year-old girl after she pointed to the dish on the canteen menu. The school’s headteacher spotted the mistake and stepped in before the youngster ate any of the meat, which is banned by her religion. But her parents were told about the error and complained to the catering firm that supplies meals to the school. Miss Waldock was suspended from her duties and has now been sacked for gross misconduct. A British Muslim group has already branded the decision ‘heavy-handed’ and an ‘overreaction’. Miss Waldock yesterday said she had made an honest mistake and was dismissed despite begging bosses to let her keep her job. ‘I feel the school and catering company made me a scapegoat so they can’t be seen as politically incorrect,’ added the mother-of-two. ‘I was really upset when I found out what I’d done. I’d never have done something like this on purpose. It was a simple mistake – I was so gutted with the school’s reaction. ‘I really enjoyed the job and I’d never had any problems before.’ The error happened at Queen Edith Primary School in Cambridge, where the proportion of pupils from ethnic minority backgrounds is ‘well above average’ according to the school’s latest report from Ofsted. The school’s website also says that the families of pupils speak 28 languages. Miss Waldock said the pupil had actually asked for the meat. ‘I asked, “Do you want the gammon?” and she said yes, so I served it to her,’ she said. ‘When the headteacher found out, she was not happy. But there are 200-odd children to feed and I don’t know who is a Muslim or who is a vegetarian. Miss Waldock, who lives in Cambridge, said there were about 40 pupils with various dietary requirements, but claimed it was impossible to keep track of them. Dismissed: Ms Waldock claims there were around 40 pupils at Queen Edith Primary School in Cambridge with various dietary requirements and it was impossible to keep track of them with the lists she was given . She said: ‘There is a list, but the . pupils don’t wear name badges or stickers and we can’t know them all. I . respect all of the children’s beliefs, religions and meal choices. This . was just one mistake. I think firing me was really harsh.’ The girl’s parents, Zahid and Rumana Darr, claimed the school told them Miss Waldock was not concerned about the mistake. Mrs Darr, 33, said: ‘The person there said the dinner lady didn’t care or wasn’t that bothered.’ But Miss Waldock said: ‘That’s just not true. If I saw the parents today, I would say sorry.’ The Darrs also contacted Lunchtime UK, . the catering firm that operates the canteen. The company’s operations . manager Peter McAleese said: ‘Anyone losing their job is regretful. 'But . there was a full and transparent procedure that Alison went through, as . well as an appeals procedure, which she lost.’ A Muslim campaign group said that 'dismissing a dinner lady for inadvertently serving pig meat is an overreaction' Community group Muslims4UK said the majority of Muslim parents would be ‘understanding’ of the mistake. Founder and chairman Inayat Bunglawala said: ‘Dismissing a dinner lady for inadvertently serving pig meat is an overreaction. ‘The most sensible way to rectify such . mistakes is to improve awareness of the pupils’ dietary requirements . while apologising to the pupils and their parents.’ The Muslim Council of Cambridgeshire . called the sacking ‘heavy-handed’. ‘We are all human beings and all make . mistakes,’ said a spokesman. UKIP leader Nigel Farage has vowed to take up Miss Waldock’s cause. He said: ‘I feel desperately sorry for her. If she’d served gammon to a vegetarian would she have been fired? I think not.’
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Alison Waldock, 51, apologised for mistake as soon as error was spotted .
She said it was difficult to keep track of more than 40 students with different dietary requirements with the lists she was given .
But despite 11 years working as a dinner lady, she was sacked by Queen Edith Primary School in Cambridge .
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By . David Kent . The pressure of the World Cup coming to its final stretch doesn't seem to be getting to the Argentinian players as they took part in a spot of tennis football during training. Their World Cup semi-final showdown with Holland will go a long way to determining whether Lionel Messi is to gain hero status like Diego Maradona. But it isn't all work and no play in Alejandro Sabella's camp, as they made time to fit in a bit of fun over the net days after Wimbledon came to an end at SW19. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Argentina in training ahead of their World Cup semi-final clash . Overhead: Argentina will take on Holland on Wednesday to determine their World Cup status . To me, to you: The Argentina squad made time to pass the ball over the net during training . Cagey: Argentina will look to get past Holland in the World Cup semi-final and set up a potential Brazil final . 6 - James Rodriguez (Colombia) 4 - Thomas Muller (Germany), Lionel Messi (Argentina), Neymar (Brazil) 3 - Karim Benzema (France), Arjen Robben (Holland), Enner Valencia (Ecuador), Robin van Persie (Holland), Xherdan Shaqiri (Switzerland) Those in italic are out of the World Cup through injury or elimination. As if Messi needed any more motivation, the Barcelona maestro could become the tournament's top goalscorer with a hat-trick against the Dutch. The 27-year-old, though, has competition from Germany's Thomas Muller, who faces Brazil on Tuesday. The current top goalscorer - Colombia's James Rodriguez - was knocked out by the host nation. The potential for a Brazil vs Argentina World Cup final is tempting, but Messi and Co must orchestrate a win over Louis van Gaal's confident Holland team first. Holland saw off Costa Rica on penalties in the quarter-finals - a shoot-out which told the world a lot about Van Gaal's tactical genius. The new Manchester United manager hauled off first-choice goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen for the penalties alone, bringing on Newcastle United's Tim Krul, who became an instant hero by saving two spot-kicks. Stretch: The Argentina squad rest after exercising on their mats during a training session . Talk tactics: Lionel Messi (left) and Ezequiel Lavezzi chat ahead of their World Cup semi-final clash . High spirits: Argentina have the potential to set up a Brazil showdown in the World Cup final in Rio de Janeiro .
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Argentina play football tennis in training ahead of Holland showdown .
Alejandro Sabella's Argentina face Louis van Gaal's Holland on Wednesday in World Cup semi-final clash .
Lionel Messi will be eager to score with race for Golden Boot heating up .
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Washington (CNN) -- Reinforcing identity and learning more about who we are: That's the theme of "American Stories," a new exhibit now open at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington. "There are so many stories in American history," says museum curator Bonnie Lilienfeld. "We tell big stories here about the foundation of this country. But we also tell individual stories." From large swaths of America's past to the tales of everyday Americans, the exhibit features more than 100 objects tracing history from the 1620 arrival of the pilgrims in Plymouth, Massachusetts, to the 2008 presidential election. A slave ship manifest is one new Smithsonian acquisition that will be on display. "The public hasn't even seen this yet," says Lilienfeld. "We all have a sense of the fact that slaves worked in fields and as domestic workers," but Lilienfeld adds that there are items on display that show that people forced into slavery were also painters, sculptors and poets. Another item that dates back to America's beginnings is a suit once worn by founding father Benjamin Franklin. "It's from the 18th century ... the fabric is very fragile," says Lilenfeld. Technology in our society is ever-changing. The people behind the exhibit are well aware of that, but they say it's important to note how that foundation was first laid down. A section of the first transatlantic telegraph cable is a testament to some of those early innovations. "Innovation is a big theme in this exhibit," said Lilienfeld. "One of the things we thought was really interesting was to talk about objects that everybody knows." Evidence of that comes in the form of the first iPod ever to hit the market as well as an old Apple II computer. Entertainment also takes the spotlight. The red ruby slippers Dorothy wore as she skipped down the yellow brick road in "The Wizard of Oz" are on display. And the sports portion wouldn't be complete without something from "The Greatest." "Muhammad Ali's gloves are here," said Lilienfeld. "We all know Muhammad Ali ... float like a butterfly and sting like a bee." You will even find Kermit the Frog seated and smiling. Museum officials realize that many visitors may be drawn to cultural touchstones like Dorothy's red ruby slippers or Ali's boxing gloves, but the hope is that visitors will also take time to learn or relearn more about America's early days. "I think one of the main things we want visitors to walk away with is that they're part of American history," says Lilienfeld.
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A new Smithsonian exhibit features American stories, large and small .
The exhibit at the Museum of American History opened Thursday .
Kermit the Frog, Ben Franklin and more tell the tale of America .
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Martin Thomas, 30, is accused of attacking his four-month-old daughter Evie Grace in series of attacks . A father left his baby daughter with a fractured skull and ribs in a series of vicious attacks, a court heard today. Martin Thomas, 30, from Wigan, Greater Manchester, is accused of injuring four-month-old Evie Grace on five separate occasions including striking her head and stamping on her ribs. The infant, who like her father was born with Treacher Collins syndrome, has since died from unrelated causes. Liverpool Crown Court heard the skull fractures inflicted on Evie were ‘likely to have been caused by hitting her head against a flat surface or striking her head with a blunt instrument’. Mark Kellet, prosecuting, told a jury that doctors believed the rib injuries were ‘caused by squeezing or standing or stamping on the ribs by an adult’. He said: ‘In short the defendant was responsible for causing those sets of injuries on Evie Thomas when she was aged between one month and four months. ‘Because of the force required to cause these types of fractures in such a young child, doctors can be sure these fractures were caused by unlawful assaults rather than innocent day to day handling. ‘In the absence of any plausible explanation about how she came by these serious fractures they say the likely causes of these fractures are kicks, stamps and blows, striking Evie's head with a blunt instrument or against a blunt hard unyielding surface.’ He explained that the symptoms of Evie’s condition - Treacher Collins syndrome - included, for her, poor formation of facial bones including the cheek and a small lower jaw which can be associated with sudden death in children because of respiratory obstruction. She also suffered from colic which caused pain, distress and discomfort. Evie Grace died in February 2013 as a result of respiratory failure, which was unrelated to the attacks . Hayley Fisher, Evie's mother, took her to hospital after finding 'a massive lump on her head' He added: ‘Tragically she died on the morning of 21 February 2013 as a result of respiratory failure while sleeping at home with her parents - the defendant and Hayley Fisher.’ Mr Kellet emphasised that there was nothing to suggest that the injuries she had suffered led to her death. As well as Treacher Collins syndrome she also had an upper respiratory infection causing inflamed lungs shortly before she died. A full skeletal survey was undertaken after her death and CT scans taken on December 6, 2012 were examined by two radiologists and a forensic pathologist. She had been taken to Wigan Infirmary after her mother, who was upstairs, heard shouting and later found her with ‘a massive lump on her head’ and there the scans were taken. Thomas claimed that while he had been downstairs changing her nappy on a foot stool another small child fell on her and a toy telephone she was holding hit Evie on the head. After her death the CT scans were reviewed and along with the skeletal survey the doctors identified injuries caused on five separate occasions, and fractures to her skull and ribs. Mr Kellet said the evidence demonstrates that Thomas's explanation of how she sustained the injuries was a lie. He said: ‘The medical experts say these injuries are typical of non-accidental injury.’ Thomas denies five offences of causing grievous bodily harm with intent between November 26, 2012 and February 22 last year, and five alternative lesser charges of inflicting grievous bodily harm. The trial continues. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.
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Martin Thomas, 30, is accused of injuring four-month-old Evie Grace .
Liverpool Crown Court heard he attacked infant on five separate occasions .
Evie and her father were both born with Treachers Collins syndrome .
Little girl has since died of respiratory failure - unrelated to the attacks .
Thomas denies allegations of causing and inflicting grievous bodily harm .
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By . Leon Watson . PUBLISHED: . 04:23 EST, 27 February 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 02:48 EST, 28 February 2013 . This pampered pooch has a new look to dye for. Pookah's quirky new makeover was meant to make him look just like a panda - but the pet also now looks a lot like a raccoon. Judging by these photos though, he is loving his new black and white style. According to animal stylist Catherine Miles, from Darwin, Australia, using colour and clippers to transform your pet is now a popular trend. Pookah the dog made up to look like a panda bounding around his garden in Darwin, Australia . Like a raccoon? Animal stylist Catherine Miles using colour and clippers to transform her pet . Indeed, the creative colouring has seen everything from poodles to pussy cats getting a special new look. Ms Miles said: 'It's all about creativity. It's a little bit of a fashion statement and it's getting more common.' However, she warned that the sprucing up of pets should only be done by a professional who uses specially created dyes that are safe for animals. 'Don't ever use people products or try it at home.' What is it more like? A panda in its homeland in its natural habitat in China (left) and (right) a young raccoon pauses eating crab apples on a sidewalk in Bettendorf, Iowa . Barking: The creative colouring has seen everything from poodles to pussy cats getting a special new look . Creative colouring: Pookah showing off his new black and white look . Ruff: The dyed dog made up to look like a panda in Darwin, Australia . Human hair dye is notoriously . dangerous for a pet that can easily turn around and lick the chemicals . off its coat, and can cause irritation to the skin underneath the hair. Colouring . dogs' coats became a huge fad in China in 2010 when pictures began to . emerge of owners and petting zoos that had dyed their dogs to look like . wild animals. Chow . Chows were given the colours of panda bears, the soft fluffy coats . lending themselves well to the look of their black and white . counterparts. According to animal stylist Catherine Miles using colour and clippers to transform your pet is now a popular trend . Colouring . dogs' coats became a huge fad in China in 2010 when pictures began to . emerge of owners and petting zoos that had dyed their dogs to look like . wild animals . Judging by these photos, Pookah is loving his new black and white look . Ms Miles said of Pookah's new look: 'It's a little bit of a fashion statement and it's getting more common' Ms Miles warned that sprucing up of pets should only be done by a professional .
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Catherine Miles, from Australia, uses dye and clippers to transform pet .
But she warns sprucing up of pets should only be done by professionals .
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By . Dan Bloom . Shot dead: This South American rhea was on the loose in Hertfordshire for almost two months . The giant South American rhea that has evaded capture for more than a month has been shot - and will be turned into gourmet sausages. Gamekeeper Stuart Howe, 65, spotted the 6ft flightless bird 70 yards away in a rape seed field and killed it with one shot to the head. The rhea, named Rita, had become a frequent sight . on Barkway Park Golf Club near Royston, Hertfordshire. But with a top . speed of 45mph, its pursuers were never able to get close. And since the six-inch claws of the female bird were said to be capable of disembowelling a grown man, many people did not want to try. But police had grown concerned the rhea, which escaped in mid-March from a smallholding belonging to experienced rhea owner Jo Clark in Starling's Green, Essex, would cause a car crash. Gamekeeper Mr Howe provided photographic of evidence of the dead bird, which some nicknamed Chris after the pop legend Chris Rea. He told the Daily Telegraph: 'I suppose some people might say it is a shame the rhea is dead but it would be terrible if it caused someone to die in a car crash. 'I saw the rhea near the roadside at one point and it would easily have caused a car to swerve and hit a tree. 'What’s the life of a bird against the life of a person or family? The police wanted it out of the way and there was no way anyone would be able to capture it.' The flightless bird resembling something between an ostrich and an emu was the butt of countless 'birdie' jokes after it made frequent appearances on the golf course. But it was deadly serious for the RSPCA, which issued a warning to residents not to approach Rita. A spokesman said: 'Rheas are large birds . and have the potential to be dangerous as they are strong, fast and have . sharp claws. Our advice to the general public is keep well away and . call us or the police if they see the bird. Scroll down for video . Harmless? The bird was spotted several times roaming the countryside, including in this rape seed field . 'We would not recommend that anyone attempts to restrain or catch a rhea themselves, as these birds are able to kick in any direction and may kick out if they feel threatened.' Local newspapers printed advice to residents on what they should do if confronted under the headline 'rhea guard action'. And one person searching for the bird, Jane Garner, said she had received a phone call from a mystery man three weeks ago warning her he would shoot the rhea on sight. She told the BBC: 'I implored him not to - it's doing no harm and there are lots of people badly trying to find a way to catch it.' A Hertfordshire Police spokesman told MailOnline: 'Police have received notification that the missing Rhea has been lawfully killed near a carriageway in Anstey, as there was fear of it getting onto a main road and causing a collision. 'The owner had previously given permission for the bird to be dispatched if the situation deemed it necessary, which was the case. 'We have spoken to the owner who is aware.'
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South American bird with 6in claws escaped from smallholding in March .
Gamekeeper Stuart Howe, 65, saw it in field and shot it dead from 70 yards .
He warned the 45mph fugitive female could have caused a car crash .
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Every day Sportsmail takes a look at the European papers to see what are the biggest stories creating talking points on the continent. Let's start in Spain, where Marca and AS report that Real Madrid are set to be without Karim Benzema for their Champions League quarter-final second leg clash against rivals Atletico Madrid. The French striker, who has 15 La Liga goals to his name this season, missed Madrid's 3-1 victory against Malaga with a knee injury which he is struggling to recover from. Spanish newspapers report that Karim Benzema will miss Real Madrid's clash against Atletico on Wednesday . Despite Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti telling reporters, 'Benzema is not available [for Malaga] but we will have him back for the next game,' Marca lead with the headline 'Benzema still doubtful'. The Madrid-based newspaper claim that Ancelotti is 'hesitating' between playing a 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 formation as Gareth Bale and Luka Modric also look likely to miss Wednesday's clash. Marca lead with a similar line as the heap pressure on the Madrid boss by writing, 'Ancelotti searches for a Champions League Madrid without Modric, Bale...and almost surely without Benzema.' Elsewhere is Spain, Mundo Deportivo hail Barcelona coach Luis Enrique for statistically being 'the best coach in history in his first 50 games.' Mundo Deportivo hail 'Mister Lucho' Luis Enrique for his impressive record as Barcelona manager . Gareth Bale went down injured after less than five minutes at the Bernabeu on Saturday evening . The Barcelona outlet report that Enrique tops the list for results in his first 50 games in charge with Helenio Herrera in second and Pep Guardiola and Tata Martino tied for third. Over in Italy, Tuttosport celebrate Juventus's march towards the Serie A title following their 2-0 victory against Lazio on Saturday. 'Fest Juve,' or 'Party Juve' reports the Italian newspaper as they look ahead to Massimiliano Allegri's Olympico clash against Torino where the Old Lady can wrap up a fourth consecutive Scudetto. Luka Modric hobbles off the Bernabeu pitch have sprained a ligament in his right knee on Saturday . Italian newspaper Tuttosport focus on the Serie A as Juventus looks to wrap up the Serie A title .
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Karim Benzema missed Real Madrid's win against Malaga with knee injury .
Carlo Ancelotti had hoped the French striker wouldn't be out for long .
Welsh forward Gareth Bale could also miss Champions League clash .
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By . Reuters . PUBLISHED: . 18:49 EST, 24 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 18:53 EST, 24 November 2013 . A Chicago-born man, who went missing three decades ago as a toddler after his father took him to Mexico, has been reunited with his U.S. mother in California after a harrowing trek back to the United States. David Amaya Barrick, now 37, was arrested by U.S. Border Patrol agents last month but freed after convincing authorities of his U.S. citizenship - only to vanish again for several days before turning up at a San Diego church. The mother and son finally met each other this weekend for the first time since the son went missing in 1979, to find they have the same eyes and nose, share the same laugh, and both love plaid shirts - even if they no longer have a language in common. Reunited: Kathy Amaya (left) was separated from her son David Amaya Barrick (right) when his father kidnapped him to Mexico when he was just a toddler. The two met for the first time in three decades today . 'We have some catching up to do,' Kathy Amaya, 60, told Reuters on Sunday through tears a day after the pair finally met face to face at the San Diego International Airport after she flew in from Wisconsin. 'We're going to do that.' The Border Patrol said Barrick was taken from Chicago by his father in 1979 and brought to Mexico, where he was left with his paternal grandparents, speaking only Spanish. He later trained as a percussionist and moved to Monterrey, where he built a career playing in Norteno bands. He married and had two children, but the marriage didn't work out. Earlier this month, he illegally crossed into California from Mexico with undocumented immigrants and was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol about a mile east of the Pacific Ocean. At first, he said he was Mexican, then remembered that his grandparents told him he was born in a Chicago hospital. Thankful: Mother and son met for the first time at a church in San Diego today. They plan to spend Thanksgiving together with David's half-brothers and half-sisters in Wisconsin . Language barrier: After spending most of his life in Mexico, David only speaks Spanish and is unable to communicate fully with his English-speaking mom. Pictured above with Pastor Freddy Rivas (center) He also told the border agents he had been beaten and robbed of his money, cell phone and Mexican identification before entering the United States. The agents checked out his story and were able to locate his birth certificate and his mother - putting the two in touch over the phone in an emotional long-distance call. Because Barrick speaks only Spanish, agents acted as translators. 'It was very emotional,' supervisory agent Troy Matthews said. 'He told her he grew up being told she abandoned him and she started crying that she was afraid they told him that and how she never stopped wanting to find him.' Coming to America: David and his mother were finally put in contact with each other when he was caught illegally crossing into the country from Mexico. Pictured above with translator Behriz Castro . Citizenship: After locating David's birth certificate which confirmed he was born in Chicago, and therefore a U.S. citizen, border patrol helped him find his mom. Pictured above with translator Juan Soto (left) On Tuesday, Amaya will fly to Wisconsin with her firstborn son, where he'll meet her four other grown children, three brothers and a sister. 'We'll spend Thanksgiving with so much to give thanks for,' Amaya said. 'It's really overwhelming, sometimes it feels like my heart will burst.' Both mother and son acknowledge they have much to do to rebuild their relationship, starting with finding a common language. But Amaya pointed at Barrick's plaid shirt, and then her own, and they both laughed the same laugh. 'We are the same blood,' Amaya said. 'We can figure out the rest.' Father: David holds a child from the church's daycare. He has two children of his own in Mexico, but is no longer married to their mother .
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David Amaya Barrick, now 37, was born in Chicago, but taken to Mexico as a toddler by his father .
He reunited with his mother today, 60-year-old Kathy Amaya, for the first time in more than three decades .
The two were reunited when David illegally crossed into the country from Mexico and was caught by border control .
When he told then he was an American citizen, they located his birth certificate and helped him find his mother .
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By . Ben Leach . PUBLISHED: . 06:44 EST, 19 June 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 07:50 EST, 19 June 2013 . For horticulturists it is a moment of great beauty tinged with even greater sadness. An exotic plant that flowers once in its lifetime before dying has bloomed. The spiky plant had shown no signs of blossoming for 11 years but has now burst into an array of turquoise petals with orange anthers - on what is expected to be the hottest day of the year. The bright colour combination is extremely rare to see in the plant world and is never seen on a plant native to the UK. The exotic bromeliad plant that only blooms once in its lifetime finally burst into flower today after 11-year wait . The flowers of the Puya berteroniana are expected to last for around two weeks but it will sadly be the first and last time the 6ft tall plant blooms as they die shortly after the flowers fade. The plant - a bromeliad - is a relative of the pineapple and is native to the Andes in South America. It has been growing at the Ventnor Botanic Gardens on the Isle of Wight for the last 11 years. But today's hot and humid temperatures set to hit 28C (82F) appear to have encouraged it to flower. The attraction has over 20 species of Puya plants and around 50 of the stunning turquoise variety, however they will not all flower at the same time. The Puya berteroniana, native to Chile, flowers once - for just a couple of weeks - and then dies . Normally the Puya berteroniana requires extremely arid conditions to flourish and has waxy, silver coloured spines on its leaves to protect them against sunlight. However, it is a hardy species and can survive in cooler conditions if kept relatively dry. Chris Kidd, curator at the Ventnor Botanic Gardens, said: 'The Puya berteroniana is a monocarpic plant which means it flowers just once and then dies. 'It will be in flower for a couple of weeks and then hundreds of the seeds will be pollinated by birds, and only one or two of those will survive. Ventnor Botanic Gardens worker Kirsten Morris is dwarfed by the flowers of the Puya berteroniana . 'The colour is an unusual combination, usually flowers are pollinated by flies who can't see the red spectrum, but birds can pick up the orange on the blue background. 'The weather patterns are changing, we had a very wet year last year and it has also been very cold, so the weather might have something to do with it flowering now. 'They are native to the Andes in South America where conditions are very arid and the leaves are covered in a waxy substance to protect them. 'The Puya berteroniana can grow up to 10ft tall and last for 100 years before it flowers, we have had this particular one since 2002. 'Although they normally flower in the summertime it is a waiting game as you can't tell when they are going to.'
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Puya berteroniana blossomed today - likely to be the hottest day of 2013 .
Has been growing at Ventnor Botanic Gardens for last 11 years .
The plant can last for 100 years before flowering .
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Common creams used to treat athlete's foot and eczema could undo the damage of multiple sclerosis, scientists claim. The surprise discovery could pave the way to ground-breaking new therapies for the devastating auto-immune disease ,which affects around 2.5 million worldwide. Scientists found that the anti-fungal agent miconazole and the steroid clobetasol both restored movement to mice paralysed by a rodent version of multiple sclerosis (MS). In laboratory tests, they prompted inactive mouse and human stem cells to regenerate myelin, the protective insulation-like coating around nerve fibres that is destroyed by the disease. Common creams used to treat athlete's foot and eczema could cure multiple sclerosis, scientists claim . Dr Robert Miller, of the US team from Case Western Reserve University who carried out the study, said the results marked a significant breakthrough. He said: 'It was a striking reversal of disease severity in the mice. 'The drugs that we identified are able to enhance the regenerative capacity of stem cells in the adult nervous system. 'This truly represents a paradigm shift in how we think about restoring function to multiple sclerosis patients.' Miconzanole is sold over the counter in most pharmacies as a cream to treat athlete's foot, while clobetasol cream is commonly prescribed to treat eczema. Although both drugs are widely used, a way must be found to use them safely as internal human treatments rather than creams or ointments before clinical trials can be considered. The researchers are confident this problem can be solved, but have warned patients not to jump the gun by using the drugs prematurely. Lead scientist Professor Paul Tesar, from Case Western Reserve School of Medicine, said: 'We appreciate that some patients or their families feel they cannot wait for the development of specific approved medications, but off-label use of the current forms of these drugs is more likely to increase other health concerns than alleviate multiple sclerosis symptoms. 'We are working tirelessly to ready a safe and effective drug for clinical use.' MS is a condition of the central nervous system, where the coating around nerve fibres (called myelin) is damaged, causing a range of symptoms. The specific symptoms that appear depend upon which part of the central nervous system is affected and the job of the damaged nerve. People with MS might suffer fatigue, vision problems and difficulties with walking, but the condition is different for everyone. Symptoms can come and go and can vary greatly in terms of severity . There may be periods of relapse of varying length and severity. At present, there is no cure for MS but the symptoms can be treated. It is usually diagnosed in people aged 20 to 40, and it affects almost three times as many women as men. Worldwide, it is estimated that more than 2.5 million people have MS. Source: Multiple Sclerosis Trust . MS occurs when the immune system attacks myelin, thereby disrupting the passage of nerve signals. As the disease progresses, it produces symptoms ranging from mild numbness or tingling to full blown paralysis. Occasionally, it can prove fatal. Although current treatments can slow progression of MS and reduce its symptoms, the disease remains incurable. One new approach is to focus on special stem cells called oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) that mature into myelin-producing cells. While other scientists have looked at ways of replacing lost stem cells using transplantation techniques, the Case Western team set out to find a way of stimulating existing, but inactive, OPCs. After screening 727 potential drug candidates, they identified two - miconazole and clobetasol - that coaxed the OPCs to form oligodendrocytes and repair nerve fibres stripped of myelin. 'We know that there are stem cells throughout the adult nervous system that are capable of repairing the damage caused by multiple sclerosis, but until now, we had no way to direct them to act,' said Prof Tesar. 'Our approach was to find drugs that could catalyse the body's own stem cells to replace the cells lost in multiple sclerosis.' As well as testing the drugs on mice affected by MS, the scientists also observed their effect on human OPCs in the laboratory. The response was similar to that seen in mouse cells, with miconazole exerting the most potent effect. Co-author Dr Fadi Najm, also from Case Western Reserve University, said: 'We have pioneered technologies that enable us to generate both mouse and human OPCs in our laboratory. 'This uniquely positioned us to test if these drugs could also stimulate human OPCs to generate new myelinating cells.' Scientists said the finding was significant as it could pave the way to new therapies for MS, which affects around 2.5 million worldwide . The drugs also hold out the promise of treatments for other diseases that involve myelin loss or dysfunction, including cerebral palsy, age-related dementia, optic neuritis and schizophrenia, the scientists believe. British immunology expert Professor Daniel Altmann, from Imperial College London, said: 'This study offers the highly attractive possibility of re-targeting existing, safe, drugs for the purpose of promoting therapeutic remyelination. 'The data appear to suggest that the drugs can to some extent limit disability in experimental models of MS, though there is clearly much more to be optimised in this area, not least as the models tried thus far do not really look at effects on chronic demyelination. 'However, particularly for patients with progressive MS - where it can be difficult to know how to impact the ongoing deterioration, these approaches offer the great advantage that these are tried, tested and safe drugs passed for use in humans. 'Some caution is clearly warranted, however, when one considers the long haul from benefits in tissue culture models of myelination to a complex and diverse human disease such as MS.' The findings were published in the journal Nature.
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Active ingredients in creams were found to cure multiple sclerosis (MS)
They prompted stem cells to reverse the nerve damage caused by MS .
Cells regenerated myelin, the coating around nerve fibres that MS destroys .
Team is looking for ways the creams can be safely used as treaments .
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By . Becky Evans . PUBLISHED: . 11:41 EST, 17 July 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 06:28 EST, 19 July 2013 . They are handpicked by some of the world's wealthiest jet setters - but you would have to travel more than 25,000 miles if you wanted to try them all. Elite Traveler magazine compiled the list of the 'Top 10 most amazing cocktails in the world' to tempt those with even the most expensive tastes. The decadent drinks, served in bars from Sydney to London, and New York to Singapore, feature some of the most expensive highly rated liquor in the world. Risque thirst-quencher: The Lady's Leg Cosmopolitan is prepared in a vintage shaker in the shape of a woman's leg complete a high-heeled silver shoe at the Eau de Vie bars in Sydney & Melbourne, Australia . Something a bit different: The Vanilla Chocolate Malt (left) is served in small pinta bottle at London's OXO Tower and the Ron Zacapa Blaze (right) is made using rum and Pedro Ximenez sherry at Sydney's Eau de Vie bar . The magazine, which . circulates to passengers using private jets to get around the world, . consulted its panel of experts to come up with the list . produced by mixologists and barmen from across the world. Australia's plush bars feature heavily on the list, rewarded for their inventive and extravagant use of ingredients. Eau de Vie bars in Sydney and Melbourne are renowned for their Ron Zacapa Blazer concoctions. The cocktail uses Ron Zacapa rum - rated as among the best in the world, Pedro Ximinez Sherry and Bitters. Decadent: Forever Young cocktail is elaborately served behind a mirror and scented opium incense . Refreshing: The Paloma Hermosa (left) is made from tequila, elderflower liqueur, fresh fruit and egg whites and served with edible flowers and The Mulata Daisy (right) is made from Bacardi, lime, fennel, dark creme de cacao liqueur and Galliana L'Autentico and served in a champagne bowl . Sharp: New York's Gin Palace serves this White Negroni that combines gin, Vermouth and Salers aperitif and is believed to be one of the strongest cocktails served in the world . But taste alone is not enough in the world of high-class drinkers. The bars' unique Lady's Leg Cosmopolitan also made the top ten. The cocktail is made . in a 1930's vintage cocktail shaker shaped like a lady's leg complete . with high-heeled silver shoe. It uses homemade Cranberry Sorbet and . vintage Champagne to produce a creamy soft textured, chilled thirst . quencher. The duo of bars bagged a third spot in list with their Versaille Experience cocktail. The cocktail is served in Absinthe Fountains, in . which Tanqueray Gin and Absinthe are combined with pear, lemon, apple . and mint. London also has a healthy showing in the top ten. The UK capital's Artesian bar at the Langham serves the Forever Young cocktail made from Grey Goose Vodka, Martini Extra . Dry, eucalyptus, maraschino and citrus. But if that was not enough, it is served to customers with a small scented stick of Opium incense. London's Oxo Tower bar made the list for its Vanilla Chocolate Malt, using almond milk and Mozart Dry Chocolate spirit with vanilla sugar, malted . milk and Absolut Vodka served in a little pinta type bottle. The 'Mulata Daisy' at the Connaught Bar, London, featured in the top ten. It combines Bacardi Superior Rum with freshly squeezed lime juice, fennel seeds, . dark creme de cacao liqueur and Galliana L'Autentico. Arty: Singapore's Tippling Club serves the Dropje Daiquiri using salted licorice and Venezuelan rum . Fruity: The Cucumber Collins (left) uses cucumber vodka, yuzu juice, fresh lemon and sake while the Eau de Vie bars serve their cocktail in Absinthe Fountains (right) Florida bar The Living Room's take on the Cucumber Collins is popular with the jet setters. It combines Square . One Cucumber vodka, yuzu juice, fresh lemon and blueberry-stained . cucumbers Mirlin, Sake and rice wine vinegar. The bar had a second entrant in the top ten with its 'Paloma Hermosa' cocktail made from . Tapatio Blanco tequila and St. Germain Elderflower liqueur, fresh . grapefruit, lime, agave and egg whites, served up with lime wheels and . edible flowers . The strongest cocktail on the list is served at New York City's Gin Palace. The 'White Negroni' has 114 proof gin, with blanco vermouth and Salers apertif. The 'Dropje Daiquiri' at the Tippling Club Singapore completes the elite's favourites and salted licorice from Holland that is infused into a Venezuelan rum and then mixed with orange curagao and citrus. The list was chosen by some of the best mixologists in the world . Ron Zacapa Blazer, served at Eau de Vie in Sydney and Melbourne, AustraliaContains: Ron Zacapa rum, Pedro Ximinez Sherry and BittersForever Young, served at Artesian bar at the Langham, LondonContains: Grey Goose Vodka, Martini Extra Dry, eucalyptus, maraschino and citrusCucumber Collins, served at Living Room at West South Beach Hotel, FloridaContains: Square One Cucumber vodka, yuzu juice, fresh lemon and blueberry-stained cucumbers, Mirlin, Sake and rice wine vinegarLady's leg Cosmopolitan, served at Eau De Vie in Sydney and MelbourneContains: Cranberry Sorbet and vintage Champagne White Negroni, served at Gin Palace, New York Contains: Perry's Tot Gin, blanco vermouth, Salers apertifVanilla Chocolate Malt, served at Oxo Tower bar, LondonContains: Almond Milk, Mozart Dry Chocolate spirit with vanilla sugar, malted milk, Absolut Vodka Dropje Daiquiri, served at the Tippling Club, SingaporeContains: salted licorice, Venezuelan rum, orange curagao, citrusMulata Daisy, served at the Connaught Bar, LondonContains: Bacardi Superior Rum, lime juice, fennel seeds, dark crhme de cacao liqueur and Galliana L'AutenticoVersaille Experience, served at Eau De Vie barsContains: Tanqueray Gin, Absinthe, pear, lemon, apple, mintPaloma Hermosa, served at Living Room, Florida Contains: Tapatio Blanco tequila, St. Germain Elderflower liqueur, fresh grapefruit, lime, agave, egg whites .
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The top ten were handpicked by jet setters through Elite Traveler magazine .
The list features drinks served with opium sticks, in shoes... and the strongest cocktail in the world sold at a New York bar .
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The Oakland Raiders and San Diego Chargers are threatening to leave their hometowns and share stadium outside Los Angeles if both teams fail to get new stadium deals. The division rivals announced their $1.7billion plan in a joint statement Thursday night, adding another layer of complexity to a possible NFL return to the region. The plan creates the odd prospect of the teams suddenly sharing a home field, and of Los Angeles having two NFL teams after going two decades with none. The Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Raiders both played their last games in the city in 1994 - then moved to St. Louis and Oakland, respectively. The Oakland Raiders and San Diego Chargers are planning a $1.7billion shared stadium in the Los Angeles area if both fail to get new stadium deals in their current hometowns, teams said in a statement. (file photo) And it takes the muddled issue of the NFL's return to Southern California and makes it downright messy, with at least three viable stadium plans in the works. St. Louis Rams owner Stan Kroenke is part of a joint venture to build an 80,000-seat stadium at the site of the former Hollywood Park horse track just 10 miles from Carson in Inglewood. And a plan remains alive for an NFL facility in downtown Los Angeles. That stadium known as Farmers Field, until recently the leading candidate for the NFL's return to the area, now becomes a long shot with multiple competitors and no clear team attached. The proposed shared stadium for the Chargers and Raiders would be in Carson, 15 miles south of downtown LA and home to the Los Angeles Galaxy soccer team. The site of the proposed stadium - Carson Marketplace - is part of an old municipal landfill that the NFL has looked into buying at least three times, according to LA Times. The teams' statement says both have tried and failed for years to find stadium solutions in Oakland and San Diego, and without new agreements in those cities their hands will be forced. An artist's depiction provided by MANICA Architecture, is shown of the proposed football stadium on property in Carson, California, 15 miles south of downtown Los Angeles . The site of the proposed stadium - Carson Marketplace - is part of an old municipal landfill that the NFL has looked into buying at least three times . 'We are pursuing this stadium option in Carson for one straightforward reason,' the statement says. 'If we cannot find a permanent solution in our home markets, we have no alternative but to preserve other options to guarantee the future economic viability of our franchises.' Earlier this month, the NFL sent a memo warning teams that the league itself will be behind any decision to move to Southern California, and established a committee of owners to review the options. The Chargers and Raiders statement says they will respect and adhere to the guidelines the league laid out. Both teams said they plan to work in good faith through 2015 to find new agreements to stay in their current homes. The Chargers' talks with San Diego City Hall to replace the nearly 50-year-old Qualcomm Stadium have grown increasingly contentious. Earlier this month, the NFL sent a memo warning teams that the league itself will be behind any decision to move to Southern California, and established a committee of owners to review the options . If plans to move continue, all NFL teams looking into stadiums in Los Angeles are targeting 2016 for relocation. The only two NFL teams to share a stadium currently are the Jets and the Giants, who play in East Rutherford, New Jersey . Mayor Kevin Faulconer appointed an advisory group earlier this month to recommend a site and financing plan for a new stadium that can go on the November 2016 ballot. But Chargers' attorney Mark Fabiani told the group that there may not be a publicly acceptable solution to the problem and warned them against using the team for political advantage. The Raiders are in the final year of their lease at the even older Oakland Coliseum. The rundown stadium had sewage and electrical problems in the past year and is now the only stadium in the United States used as the home for both an NFL and Major League Baseball team, the Oakland Athletics. The team wants to build a new stadium at the site but talks with the city have shown little progress. Though Los Angeles does not have a team now, it has been home to the Chargers, Raiders and Rams in the last 60 years. The Chargers' talks with San Diego City Hall to replace the nearly 50-year-old Qualcomm Stadium have grown increasingly contentious. Mayor Kevin Faulconer appointed an advisory group earlier this month to recommend a site and financing plan for a new stadium that can go on the November 2016 ballot . Oakland's rundown stadium had sewage and electrical problems in the past year and is now the only stadium in the United States used as the home for both an NFL and Major League Baseball team, the Oakland Athletics . The Chargers played their inaugural first season in Los Angeles before moving to San Diego in 1961. The Rams moved from Southern California to St. Louis after the 1994 season. After that same season, the Raiders returned to Oakland, where they had played from 1960, their first year a team, to 1981. The Rams's stadium struggle in St. Louis has made progress with a burgeoning plan for a 64,000-seat stadium there on the city's north riverfront. 'Our focus is 100 percent committed to keeping the Rams here in their home of St. Louis and ensuring that we remain an NFL city for generations to come,' said former Anheuser-Busch president Dave Peacock, who is heading effort to keep the Rams in St. Louis. 'We are very encouraged and thrilled with the progress we've made.' If plans to move continue, all NFL teams looking into stadiums in Los Angeles are targeting 2016 for relocation. The only two NFL teams to share a stadium currently are the Jets and the Giants, who play in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
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Division rivals plan to share stadium if both fail to get deals for better accommodations in their hometowns .
Los Angeles has not had an NFL team since Raiders and Rams left after 1994 season .
Both teams currently play in stadiums that are more than 50 years old .
The $1.7billion stadium would be in Carson, 15 miles south of downtown Los Angeles .
St. Louis Rams have also proposed stadium in Los Angeles area, ten miles from Carson .
Plans for NFL facility in downtown Los Angeles is also in the works .
Only NFL teams to share a stadium are Jets and Giants in New Jersey .
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When women first started coming forward to accuse Bill Cosby of rape last month, the public was surprised due to his flawless reputation as 'America's dad'. It has now been revealed that a team of lawyers and publicists worked tirelessly to keep his image pristine for decades, by silencing alleged victims and keeping the media from reporting their claims, the New York Times reports. That apparently all-male team includes $850-an-hour Hollywood lawyer Martin Singer (whose clients include Charlie Sheen and Arnold Schwarzenegger), former William Morris agent Norman Brokaw, his publicist son David, and New York lawyer John P Schmitt. Scroll down for video . Reputation tarnished: In recent weeks, Bill Cosby has faced an onslaught of accusations from women who claim to have been raped or sexually assaulted by him. A new report reveals how his legal and media teams have protected his reputation for decades . Protectors: High-profile Hollywood attorney Martin Singer (left),former William Morris agent Norman Brokaw (center), and New York lawyer John P Schmitt (right) are three representatives of Cosby's who have helped silence the rape accusations over the years . Most of the allegations against Cosby date back to the 1970s, which led to speculation over why the women stayed silent for so long. Like many rape victims, some of the women said they never reported the assault because they were scared of Cosby’s power and feared damaging their reputation. The reaction of Cosby’s legal team to the women brave enough to come forward over the years proves that those who stayed silent had good cause for concern. Those who have reported their rapes, either to police or in the media, have had their claims called ‘meritless’ by Cosby’s legal team, who depict them as greedy women seeking to destroy the once-beloved comedian’s reputation for a cut of his fortune. This pattern of intimidation goes all the way back to 2000 when an actress on his TV series ‘Cosby’ allegedly told police that he tried to put her hand down his sweatpants during a visit to his New York townhouse. Cosby’s lawyers threatened to sue the National Enquirer with a $250million defamation lawsuit if they published comments from the alleged victim’s relatives. But his legal team also works with the media to damage Cosby’s alleged victims and discredit their stories. Just five years after threatening to sue the Enquirer, the paper was once again investigating claims against Cosby after Temple University employee Andrea Constand publicly accused the comedian of drugging and assaulting her at his Pennsylvania home. Alleged victims: Andrea Constand (left) was one of the first victims to publicly accuse Cosby when she filed a lawsuit against him in 2005. His team sought to discredit her by revealing that her mother asked Cosby for money before she went to police. Beth Ferrier (right) is another woman who want to accuse Cosby that same year, but his team stopped a story from being published in the National Enquirer . The Enquirer was looking to report on claims by another woman, Beth Ferrier, but Cosby’s team effectively silenced that woman’s story by offering an exclusive story from Cosby telling his side of the story. Suing: Tamara Green claims to have been sexually assaulted by Cosby in the 1970s and told her story in 2005 to two outlets. She is now suing Cosby for defamation, claiming his team as repeatedly depicted her as a liar in the media . They employed the same tactic against Constand, whose mother allegedly asked Cosby to ‘make things right with money’ before her daughter went to the police to report the crime and one of Cosby’s lawyers called the move ‘a classic shakedown’, according to TV show Celebrity Justice which reported on the suit at the time. In court, Cosby’s legal team acknowledged that the lawyer in question was Singer. Constand’s suit was later settled out of court for an unknown sum. Also in 2005, a woman named Tamara Green said she was sexually assaulted by Cosby in Los Angeles in the 1970s and told her story on the Today Show and to the Philadelphia Inquirer. Cosby’s lawyers called Green’s claims ‘absolutely false’ and even offered ‘damaging information about her to the newspaper. As more and more women came forward in recent weeks to accuse Cosby, Green went public again with her story and Cosby’s lawyers reacted the same way - saying her claims were ‘a 10-year discredit accusation that proved to be nothing at the time, and is still nothing’. Green is now suing Cosby for defamation, claiming she has been depicted as a liar with these statements and continued assault on her reputation. ‘I want it put to a jury. I want it ended, finally. I want my name restored,’ she said earlier this month. One of the most shocking claims in the scandal comes from a woman named Judith Huth who says she was just 15 years old when Cosby got her drunk and forced her to perform a sex act on him at the Playboy Mansion. So young: Judith Huth claims she was sexually assaulted by Cosby at the Playboy Mansion when she was just 15 years old. His team sought to discredit her claims by revealing she unsuccessfully tried to sell her story to a tabloid a decade ago. Pictured with Cosby around the time of the assault . Huth filed a lawsuit against Cosby this month, but his lawyer Singer has tried to discredit the claims by revealing that Huth unsuccessfully attempted to sell her story to a tabloid a decade ago. Celebrity: Former supermodel Janice Dickinson is another one of the more than two dozen women who have come forward to accuse Cosby. Cosby's team threatened Buzzfeed as they were preparing an article on her account . In court records, Singer has called her claims ‘meritless’ and a ‘shakedown’. Cosby’s legal team is just as threatening with the media, and have in recent weeks sent letters to outlets like CNN and the New York Daily News urging them to stop their coverage of the scandal. ‘The media has consistently refused to look into or publish information about various women whose stories are contradicted by their own conduct or statement,’ Singer wrote in a letter to The Daily News, obtained by the Times. Cosby’s lawyers also tried to stop Buzzfeed from publishing an account from former supermodel Janice Dickinson, who has also accused the comedian of sexual assault. ‘You proceed at your own peril,’ Singer wrote to the website, pointing out inconsistencies between Dickinson’s story and what she wrote in her memoir. Just yesterday in a story published in the New York Post, Singer blamed the media for reporting on claims from women he doesn’t believe have been properly vetted. ‘You [the media] don’t need private investigators to find out information about the accusers. A simple Google search will obtain the information,’ Singer said in a statement. Singer was commenting on a story in which it was revealed that Cosby is allegedly paying six-figure fees to a team of private investigators digging dirt on his accusers. A source told the paper that Cosby has hired a Glendale, California firm to discredit his many alleged victims' stories. Cosby allegedly spoke with his legal and public relations teams about the sex scandal, and his response to it, at a recent meeting. 'If you’re going to say to the world that I did this to you, then the world needs to know, ‘What kind of person are you? Who is this person that’s saying it?’ ' Cosby said, according to an anonymous source who was present at the meeting. 'You can’t say that I put something in your coffee, threw you in a cab and then you go on and live a high-profile life, a famous life and you never complain. You mean you never reported it to the police? You never tell anyone?' Cosby continued, referring to one of his accusers, Beverly Johnson. Johnson claimed that Cosby raped her after slipping a drug into her cappuccino during a visit to his home in the 1980s. Another source who says they have worked with Cosby for at least a decade confirmed the tactic and said it has already been successful in finding information to discredit both Johnson and another alleged victim, Katherine McKee. Inconsistencies: A source says the tactic has already been successful in turning up evidence to discredit claims made by Beverly Johnson (left) and Katherine McKee (right) The team discovered that Johnson's live-in boyfriend at the time only heard her say nice things about Cosby and that McKee, an ex-girlfriend of Sammy Davis Jr, wrote posts praising the comedian online after the alleged rape, according to the Post. In a published interview, McKee also once said she is 'used to lying'. McKee, now 65, is the latest woman to publicly come forward to accuse Cosby, saying the comedian raped her in a Michigan hotel room in the early 1970s after inviting her to a party on a boat in Detroit. The former actress, who appeared on Sanford and Son and even The Bill Cosby Show, never spoke of the incident in public before last week. 'It was a rape, but it seemed so strange to call it that. We think of rape as a stranger who attacks you in a parking lot,' McKee, now a casting agent, told the New York Daily News. 'I chalked it up to another powerful person in Hollywood who just felt he could take what he wanted from women.' Cosby's attorney Martin Singer would not confirm whether the comedian had hired any private detectives.
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Comedian's lawyers and publicists have kept rape claims out of the media by discrediting accusers and pressuring news outlets not to publish .
It was revealed on Sunday that Cosby has hired a team of private investigators to dig up dirt to discredit his more than two dozen accusers .
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Do you always take off your make-up before bed? Every night? Even after a glass of wine too many? Or when you've fallen asleep on the sofa? Or you simply couldn't muster the energy? You're not alone. In a recent survey, a third of women questioned confessed to sleeping with their slap on at least twice a week. Yet those very same women did so despite believing that skipping their skincare routine before bedtime would give them spots, dry their skin and make their eyelashes brittle. Before and after: Experts said Anna's skin aged by ten years as a result of not removing her make-up for an entire month . They even said they thought it would age their faces by more than two days for every night that they didn't bother. So if we think that such slovenliness is that bad for our skin, why aren't we more assiduous about cleansing? In my case it comes down to priorities. On any given evening, my 'to do' list (which can be tackled only once the children, aged four and seven, are asleep at 8.30pm) includes loading and unloading the dishwasher (several times), tidying toys away and answering emails. Then there's the washing, filling in homework diaries, sorting school uniform and coaxing our contrary cat out from behind the garage. All this means that make-up removal frequently falls off the bottom of the list. But how much harm can a bit of war paint really do? Isn't this just another example of beauty companies scaremongering in a bid to flog us yet more skincare products we could possibly do without? To find out, I took up the challenge of leaving my make-up on not just for a night, but for a whole month. I would give my face a cursory wash in the shower each morning but I would be allowed to use none of my usual cleansing creams, and would have to reapply new make-up over the remnants of the old each day. About face: Sleeping with her make-up on for a month left Anna's smooth skin looking cracked and red . In order to measure any changes in my skin statistically rather than subjectively, I went to see Nick Miedzianowski-Sinclair at the 3D Cosmetic Imaging Studio, based at the Queen Anne Medical Centre just off Harley Street. Nick analysed my face using a special 3D camera which shows - in mortifying detail - my pigmentation, broken veins, enlarged pores and wrinkles. My flaws were then compared against the average woman of my age (40, since you ask) to give me a percentage score. Suspecting that make-up worn overnight for a protracted spell might prove very drying, Nick also took moisture readings across my cheeks and lower and upper forehead. And then the experiment began. Although there was a temptation to be circumspect, knowing that I wouldn't be able to take my make-up off, I followed my usual routine. On went the Max Factor Facefinity foundation, the Diorshow mascara and the L'Oreal eyeliner, finished off with a slick of Guerlain lipgloss. Night one, and after a hot, sticky day that included commuting back and forth across London on the Underground (always a surefire way to make skin feel filthy), I was desperate to cleanse and moisturise. But I hid my trusty Una Brennan creamy cleanser in a high cupboard and went to bed in full make-up. The following morning my pillowcase seemed to have suffered more than my skin. Other than having rather itchy eyes and some stubborn clumps of mascara hanging on to my lashes like limpets, I appeared relatively unscathed. After my morning wash, I slathered on some moisturiser, and added another layer of make-up. By night three, however, it was a different picture. I had developed a series of tiny white cysts around my eyelashes and my skin was so dry and taut, it felt like a mask. By the weekend, a few friends had commented that I was looking tired. Close inspection of my skin in a magnifying mirror revealed the surface had become flaky and lumpy, a bit like a badly plastered wall. Moreover, the foundation that I had once loved looked dry and crepey on my skin. In a bid to rehydrate my parched face, once or twice I tried putting moisturiser over the surface of the make-up at night. But this served only to smear it in a wider arch across the pillowcase. My eyelashes, meanwhile, seemed to have stuck together into two giant mono-lashes, meaning applying further mascara was getting difficult. On several occasions I caught myself pulling eyelashes out in clumps and became genuinely concerned that they might all come out. One particularly scary morning, around ten days in, I woke up to find my left eye so swollen, I could barely open it. An optician friend assured me I'd simply caught a mascara-laden lash in it overnight and it would soon settle down. Mercifully he was right, but I did skip eye make-up for 48 hours after. I'm all for experimentation, but not if it actually blinds me. As weeks progressed, my lips became dry and my skin cracked painfully at the corners of my mouth. With the end of the month approaching, I felt truly grubby and fed up. I had developed an intense aversion to mascara application and feared I may have done permanent damage to my skin. I had visibly blocked and enlarged pores all over my nose, dry skin across my lips and cheeks and red eyelids. The white cysts had given way to some nasty-looking eyelash dandruff. For an objective assessment, I went back to Nick Miedzianowski-Sinclair's 3D camera and asked dermatologist Dr Stefanie Williams, medical director of the European Dermatology London clinic, to explain the results. Not quite sleeping beauty: In a recent survey, a third of women questioned said they sleep with their slap on at least twice a week . PAINFULLY PARCHED . The camera showed that the surface texture of my skin was around ten per cent worse (i.e. more uneven) on my forehead and on the right hand side. On the left hand side, it was around 20 per cent worse, which Nick explained was probably down to the fact that I sleep on my left side. This meant that even less oxygen would get to the skin here, which would magnify any problems that the lingering make-up might have caused. According to Dr Williams, the decline in texture was almost certainly down to me skipping my twice-daily moisturising routine. This resulted in seriously parched skin, a fact proven by Nick's other tests, which showed a five per cent drop in moisture levels. 'Not only is the top layer of skin dry,' said Dr Williams, 'but a layer of make-up will also prevent normal skin shedding, slowing down the usual renewal process, resulting in uneven and dull textured skin.' ALL LINED UP . Although the wrinkles on my forehead hadn't worsened significantly, they had become deeper on both the right and left hand sides of my face. Dr Williams said that it's no coincidence these were also the driest parts of my face. 'When skin is dry, it's less elastic so wrinkles are more prominent,' she told me. She also believes that this dryness would have been compounded by environmental pollutants sticking to the make-up, causing what is known as oxidative stress, where skin is attacked by harmful free radicals. 'These molecule-sized compounds cause damage to various cellular structures in the skin and can actually decrease production of collagen - the substance that gives skin its plumpness - compounding the wrinkle issue,' she explained. Walking the line: While the wrinkles on Anna's forehead hadn't worsened significantly, they had become deeper on both sides of her face . SEEING RED . My skin is sensitive and prone to redness anyway. This meant that even before the experiment, I scored in the bottom six per cent of women my age. A month in, and it had become two percentage points worse. Any more of a downward slide and I would be an off-the-scale mass of angry, dilated facial capillaries. Dr Williams told me this redness was a sign of irritation in the skin. 'Sleeping in make-up,' she warned, 'has an occlusive effect (it forms a barrier over the surface of the skin). 'This means any irritants are locked in, exacerbating any allergic reactions, and moisturisers are locked out.' MY POOR PORES . Deep cleanse: Long-term avoidance of washing while continuing to wear make-up is detrimental to skin in the long run . The pictures showed that my pores were about five per cent larger than they had been at the start. Dr Williams said this was partly due to physical clogging. 'Dirt in pores not only makes them more noticeable and thus appear larger but, over time, we think it can actually stretch them.' However, she also believed that it was a sign that my skin had aged over the month. 'Older people naturally have larger pores because, with age, elasticity decreases so the structures that support the skin, and keep pores tight, become slacker.' EXPERT CONCLUSION . The experts estimated that my skin was biologically approximately a decade older than before I began my no-cleansing experiment. This proved what my mirror reflected: my face genuinely has aged by as much as ten years in a month, and all because I didn't take my make-up off. I'm terrified that the damage might be permanent. Have I ruined my skin - and my looks - for ever? Fortunately, Harley Street cosmetic dermatologist Dr Sam Bunting reassured me. 'You won't have done any meaningful damage in four weeks,' she said. 'But long-term avoidance of cleansing while continuing to wear make-up could be detrimental to your skin in the long-run. 'The biggest issue is the accumulation of environmental pollutants, which drive the generation of free radicals. 'These contribute to the breakdown of collagen and elastin, the structures that underpin youthful skin. While these structures deteriorate with age, you don't want to do anything to speed up that process,' she adds . I don't need telling twice. From now on, however busy I am before bed, cleansing will be number one on my to-do list.
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A recent survey reveals a third of us sleep with our slap on twice weekly .
So for a month, Anna applied make-up as normal - but never took it off!
By the end, experts said her skin had aged by a decade .
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