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By . Mail Online Reporter . Sony Pictures seems to be taking North Korea's objections to the company's upcoming Seth Rogen-James Franco comedy seriously enough to begin altering the film. The film, titled The Interview, follows a pair of TV journalists recruited by the CIA in a plot to assassinate North Korea dictator Kim Jong Un. The Hollywood Reporter reports the studio is altering thousands of buttons worn by characters in the film because of they depict real buttons worn by the North Korean military meant to honor both Kim Jong Un and his late father Kim Jong Il. Scroll down for video . Sony Pictures seems to be taking North Korea's objections to the company's upcoming Seth Rogen-James Franco comedy seriously enough to begin altering the film . The nation would consider showing military decorations blasphemous. The studio is also considering cutting a scene in which Kim Jong Un's face is melted off in slow motion. However a source in touch with The Hollywood Reporter says the face-melting may be cut only because the filmmakers are still trying to decide whether they think it's funny, and not because of pressure from the rogue nation. The studio insists the alterations have nothing to do with concern over political fallout, they do come not long after statements out of Pyongyang showing anger over the film. The film's concept 'shows the desperation of the . U.S. government and American society,' for one. A source claims the hardware problem is made complicated by 'clearance issues' as the badges involve a living person. The film, titled The Interview, follows a pair of TV journalists recruited by the CIA in a plot to assassinate North Korea dictator Kim Jong Un . An unofficial North Korean spokesperson has also asked President Barack Obama to prevent the film's release. Indiewire notes that political pressures have resulted in a number of changes to Hollywood films in recent years. For fear of alienating foreign audiences, the filmmakers behind the recent Red Dawn remake changed their invading antagonists from Chinese to North Korean. A representative has already said that Kim Jong Un will likely watch interview, to which Seth Rogen tweeted: 'I hope he likes it!' The film is set for Christmas Day release.
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The Interview is about a pair of television journalists recruited into a plan to assassinate Kim Jong Un .
Studio digitally altering buttons honoring Kim Jong Un and father Kim Jong Il and possibly cutting scene of Kim Jong Un's face melting .
North Korean officials have asked President Barack Obama to block the film's release .
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11e0d87d6b73c5a6e7482ea038066fdecced739e
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By . Bianca London . PUBLISHED: . 10:55 EST, 4 February 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 10:55 EST, 4 February 2013 . For model Penny Lancaster keeping her looks in check is an essential part of her job. And while she may have arrived in her forties, Rod Stewart's wife has no intentions of getting any extra help to maintain her youthful glow. Speaking on Lorraine this morning, Penny admitted that living in California and seeing so many women . with plastic surgery puts her off having any unnatural procedures . herself. Scroll down for video . Natural beauty: Penny Lancaster admitted on Lorraine that seeing so many women who have had plastic surgery in LA really puts her off . She explained: 'When I question myself sometimes as I'm getting . older and I'm thinking, "Umm". 'And then I come to LA and I remind . myself of the reasons why I don't want to go down that alley.' Discussing her own beauty secrets, the one-time face of Ultimo . revealed: 'Obviously we all know that looking after ourselves is a good . idea. 'Exercising, eating well, but mostly for me - with the travelling . that I do - it's keeping hydrated. Aging gracefully: The model turned photographer says her key to beauty is keeping her skin well hydrated and it has obviously worked judging by photographs of her in 2000 (L) and today (R) 'That's keeping your face moisturised . and drinking plenty of fluids including water and vegetable juices.' Asked . what she thinks defines natural beauty, Penny said: 'I'd have to say . it's not how beautiful you look, but it's about that natural beautiful . person that's from within. So it's about that radiant smile and the . sparkle in the eye.' Speaking from Los . Angeles, the model and photographer added 'I believe the most beautiful . person I know is my mum. 'Naturally she's a beautiful woman with or . without makeup. Particularly when she's spent two hours mucking out the . horses in the wind and the rain, she still looks lovely. Judge: Penny, who became a model after entering a modelling competition herself, will be judging Lorraine Naked 2 . 'It's that rosy . glow and she's always happy.' The 41-year-old today launched Lorraine Naked 2 – the nationwide search to find the prettiest, natural-looking beauty under and over the age of 40 who will get to model a beauty television campaign. Penny, who became a model after entering a modelling competition herself, will be judging Lorraine Naked 2 alongside top celebrity photographer Nicky Johnston who has photographed the likes of Nicole Sherzinger and David Beckham, as well as presenter Lorraine Kelly, and Red magazine’s beauty editor at large Rosie Green. Speaking about Lorraine Naked 2, Penny said: 'It's fantastic, I'm very glad to be one of the judges, and what an amazing opportunity for any woman out there. 'And that means anyone - any shape or size - it's about embracing your natural beauty.'
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41-year-old model said living in California and seeing so many women .
with plastic surgery puts her off having any unnatural procedures .
herself .
Says keeping hydrated is her key to beauty .
Described her mother as most beautiful woman she knows .
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11e1d477200304bcf1c64538802b7d31b73d7fe9
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A report reveals highly qualified working mothers are being excluded from full-time jobs because they lack flexibility. File photo . Highly qualified mothers are being excluded from full-time jobs because of a lack of flexibility in the work place, according to a report. The survey revealed that two-thirds of employed women were unable to adjust the time they start or finish work. And a quarter said it was difficult to take an hour or two off work to attend to personal matters at short notice. The report by the IPPR think-tank said the UK had a ‘particular problem’ with a lack of part-time work in skilled jobs for highly qualified workers compared to other countries. It means many women with children in Britain are working part time in jobs below their skills level. Women in Sweden and the Netherlands are more able to adapt their working hours than those in the UK, said the report. More than two-fifths of women who work part time do so mainly to take care of children or disabled adults, compared with 6 per cent of men, said IPPR. The report revealed that a third of women in part-time jobs were not happy with the amount of hours they work. The research also showed that women who work part time in the UK are seven times more likely to let care duties dictate their working hours than men in part-time jobs. Dalia Ben-Galim, associate director of IPPR, said: ‘Employers are missing out on top talent and highly qualified women are working in low-skilled jobs. ‘That’s a missed opportunity for both employers and employees. ‘How work is arranged, and employees’ level of autonomy over working hours, can have a big impact on how well people reconcile paid work with other commitments.’ The survey revealed two-thirds of employed women were unable to adjust the time they start or finish work. File photo . She continued: ‘An important indicator for flexibility is how employees’ hours are set, and who has control over this. ‘For example, fixed starting times set by an employer may conflict with the varying and changing needs of families. ‘Flexible working in its current, reduced-hours form simply isn’t flexible enough. ‘The prevalence of rigid scheduling, especially in low-income jobs, often means that even reduced hours work is not sufficient for meeting the more spontaneous demands of care-giving.’
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A quarter of employed women said it was difficult to take time off to attend to personal matters at short notice .
UK has a ‘particular problem’ with a lack of part-time work in skilled jobs .
It means many mothers are working part-time jobs below their skills level .
Women in Sweden and the Netherlands are more able to adapt their working hours than those in the UK, the report said .
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Bizarre footage has emerged of a dog dressed as a woman walking down the road. The video, filmed in China, appeared on the internet today and has already stunned many viewers. The 16-second clip shows the small white poodle on its hind legs as it is led along the pavement on a leash. Scroll down for video . Bizarre: Footage has emerged of a dog being dressed as a woman and walking down the road . Baffling: The 16-second clip shows the small white poodle on its hind legs as it is led down the pavement on a leash . It's gender is not clear, but it is wearing a dress and jeans and is even accessorized with a handbag and sunglasses. The dog moves swiftly along the street with its front paws out in front of it. The man, who looks like a pensioner, walks a few steps behind the dog, letting his pet take centre stage. As the tiny dog does not appear to be in distress as it obediently parades along the pavement. Strange outing: The man, who looks like a pensioner, walks a few steps behind the dog, letting his pet take centre stage . Since being posted on Live Leak the video has already attracted hundreds of comments. 'OK, my dog has a hoodie, but this is ridiculous,' said one user. Another stunned user wrote: 'Wow, can she keep on walking on two feet all the time?' But another user who viewed the video on the website said 'That is just too cruel.' It is unclear where the video was filmed in China, but the man does not appear too embarrassed at the unusual sight.
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The 16- second video, filmed in China, appeared on the internet today .
Footage has already stunned many viewers with some calling it 'cruel'
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11e31222439bf95508bbeb070902d96e3b70a4d4
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Two transplant patients died after receiving kidneys from the same alcoholic donor - which had already been rejected as 'unfit' by several other hospitals, an inquest has heard. Father-of-six Darren Hughes, 42, and new grandfather Robert 'Jim' Stuart, 67, were kept in the dark by doctors at a Welsh NHS hospital about the lifestyle of their donor. Mr Stuart, from Cardiff, and Mr Hughes, of Bridgend, both underwent the operations at the University Hospital of Wales last year, where they were given kidneys infected with the deadly parasitic worm halicephalobus. Darren Hughes, 42, of Bridgend, (pictured left) and Robert Stuart, 67, from Cardiff, (right) both died after receiving an 'infected kidney' from an alcoholic donor, an inquest in Cardiff has heard . Post-mortem examinations revealed that both men had the parasite in their bodies. Cardiff Coroner's Court heard that there have only been five known cases like this worldwide in humans - all of which have proved fatal. Both men died of meningoencephalitis, an inflammation of the brain caused by the parasite. The inquest was told by relatives of both men that they had been informed that the donor's organs had been rejected by several other hospitals after being deemed 'unfit for transplant' - but they were only told after their loved ones had already died. Mr Hughes's father, Ian, told the hearing he would not have signed the consent form for his disabled son had he known the organ came from an alcoholic. He said: 'I ended up signing Darren's death warrant. 'I thought the donor was a person who had died in a car crash locally. We knew nothing about the donor's lifestyle. 'The first time we knew anything was wrong was after Darren's death.' Mr Hughes said: 'After he died we were told that the donor lived rough, was alcoholic, had cirrhosis of the liver and that they didn't know the cause of the meningitis that killed him. 'We find it difficult to understand why the hospital in Cardiff used these kidneys. They had been rejected from all other hospitals - all his other organs were considered unfit for transplant.' That sentiment was echoed by Mr Stuart's widow Judith. She said her husband, who needed dialysis after suffering septicaemia, had been in good health before being bumped up the waiting list. The family of Darren Hughes outside his inquest at Cardiff Coroner's Court - from left to right his mother Jackie Hughes, dad Ian Hughes and sister Vanessa Gordon . 'He coped very well on dialysis,' she added. 'He was very upbeat about the future and would have been happy to stay on dialysis for the rest of his life. 'He was in surprising good health for someone who needed a transplant. 'The nurses (on the transplant ward) once joked to him 'What are you doing here, you're in far too good health, you shouldn't be here'.' Mrs Stuart added she had been told nothing about the donor - disputing accusations her husband had been told. 'I maintain my husband did not properly consent to the operation,' she said. The hearing was told Mr Stuart was told his donor had liver cirrhosis 'while in theatre' before being given anaesthetic. Mrs Stuart said: 'Even if this conversation did happen I do not think he would have been aware (of what was going on).' Acting coroner Christopher John Woolley said both the men had a transplant at University Hospital Wales last November. For Mr Hughes, it was his third transplant, while it was Mr Stuart's first. But following a successful operation, Mr Hughes's condition began to deteriorate and an initial diagnosis of viral meningitis was made. He died on December 15. His father said: 'Our opinion was that Darren was not going to improve and he was being used as a guinea pig.' Mr Stuart and Mr Hughes both underwent the operations at the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff (pictured) last year, where they were given kidneys infected with the deadly parasitic worm halicephalobus . Mr Hughes senior said he had a meeting with health officials the following month and was told 'all other hospitals had rejected' the donors' organs - including eyes, lungs, liver and heart - because they were considered unfit for transplants. Mr Stuart's wife, Judith, said her husband had twice been told a transplant match had been found, only for the operation to be cancelled. At 2am on November 30, he was told a new match had been found. 'I was told the operation went very well and the kidney was scanned in recovery,' Mrs Stuart said. 'He continued to make good progress and was passing urine.' He was discharged from hospital on December 6 and attended a follow-up appointment four days later. Later that day Mrs Stuart said her husband became 'very confused'. She said: 'He kept asking where his father was - even though he had died years ago.' He was then readmitted to hospital, where he was sent to intensive care. He died on December 17. The inquest heard no post mortem had been carried out on the donor following his unusual death before his organs were offered for transplant. The inquest also heard the organs of the donor had been rejected by every hospital they had been offered to before they were accepted by the University of Wales Hospital in Cardiff. The kidneys had been described in documents as 'poor function'. Mr Hughes told Cardiff Coroner's Court about the final desperate days of his son's life as the parasite in his infected kidney. He said: 'Darren couldn't feel his legs, couldn't control his bowels and was coming in and out of consciousness. 'He said: 'Dad I am frightened, I am scared, I don't know what is happening. No more hospital Dad, I have had enough'.' Mr Hughes said he asked how his wife Andrea was before slipping into a coma which he never came out of. A representative for the University of Wales Hospital suggested that the surgeon had told them prior to the transplant that the donor had died of a brain infection which was low risk. Mr Hughes said: 'No, that is not true, that is false.' The inquest was told the halicephalobus parasite lives in soil, manure and compost. Its occurance is rare in animals - although it can be found in horses. Acting coroner Mr Woolley heard neither of the men who died had had contact with horses prior to their death. The inquest continues.
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Robert Stuart and Darren Hughes both died after having transplant surgery .
But the kidneys were infected with deadly parasitic worm .
Family members who signed consent form were not told of donor's lifestyle .
Donor was a 'homeless' alcoholic who had cirrhosis of the liver .
Father who signed consent form feels he ‘signed his son's death warrant’
Inquest heard other hospitals had rejected the organs because they were considered 'unfit for transplant' - but relatives were only told after deaths .
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11e37c69fcbbb24d92401c1c5f5f76692790fef5
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Editor's note: CNN.com has a business partnership with CareerBuilder.com, which serves as the exclusive provider of job listings and services to CNN.com. Job seekers need to be ready to deal with the perception that they are overqualified. Sherry Shealy Martschink, 57, is a former state legislator, state senator and worker's compensation commissioner for South Carolina. She's a recent law school graduate and has experience in journalism, marketing and education. For the past few years during her job search, she's been told -- in not so many words -- that she's overqualified. "Sometimes the opposition is in the tone of voice rather than the actual wording of the questions and comments," Martschink said. "An employer may say something like, 'We are hoping to find someone who will make a career here' or 'Why would you want this job after doing such-and-such?' Another type of question has to do with whether I could be a team player after being in such leadership positions." How does Martschink respond to such opposition? Plain and simple: . "If I weren't willing to do the work, I wouldn't be applying for the job," she said. Geoff Tucker, who has a college degree and six years experience in his field, has faced opposition more than once during his job search. In one interview, the hiring manager started with, "We both know you're overqualified," and went on to say she wanted to do a "gut check " to determine if Tucker would be OK with the tasks he'd be handing. "In other words, she wanted to see if I was OK with being versatile to the point of helping clean around the office and refill the toilet paper in the bathroom," Tucker said. "I affirmed that I do not have an issue with doing tasks that maybe I haven't had to do in a while. I am not that egocentric and I don't regard these tasks as below me." Many job seekers wonder how being qualified can be a bad thing, but it's a Catch 22 that many job seekers face today. They can't get hired for positions relevant to their experience so they apply for jobs at lower levels. The problem is that they can't get hired for those positions, either, because they're overqualified. "Employers are in the cat-bird seat," said Kathryn Sollman, co-founder and managing partner of the Women at Work Network. "The high volume of job seekers makes it possible for employers to hold out for their ideal candidates. You're not an ideal candidate if you have held a more senior position in the past; employers assume you will leave as soon as you find something at your normal level." What's the deal? Assuming you'll jump ship when the economy turns around is only one of the many objections employers have to hiring overqualified candidates. For one thing, many job seekers assume that their high credentials automatically mean they are skilled for a more junior job. But, Sollman said, just because a position is less senior than the one you previously held does not mean that you have the appropriate skills to succeed in that role. "Take an administrative position, for example. Many mid- to senior-level job seekers haven't done anything remotely administrative for years," she said. Right or wrong, other assumptions hiring managers might have about hiring overqualified candidates include: . • You'll be bored and unmotivated . • The salary will be too low for you . • You'll be unhappy . • You'll leave the minute something better comes along . • You could possibly steal his/her job . • You won't be able to step down from a leadership role . Hiring managers only take overqualified candidates seriously if they are convincing about a valid reason they want to take a more junior-level job, Sollman said. The best reason is saying you have decided that you don't want to work crazy schedules and are interested in a better work/life balance, she said. If that's the truth and you're truly not looking over your shoulder for a senior-level job, employers will consider you for a more junior job. Tucker says the doubt he gets from hiring managers regarding his experience is unfair. "They should consider my above-par qualifications as a way to gain additional capabilities on their staff and team. I will bring just as much passion to this role as I would any other," he said. "I would not apply for a job if it weren't a fit for me. It's about the work I'm doing and the contributions I'm making that matter." If you're being told you're overqualified during your job search, here are seven ways to convince your interviewer otherwise: . 1. Admit that you're worried, too Tell the hiring manager that you are also concerned that it might not be a fit, suggests Duncan Mathison, co-author of "The Truth about the Hidden Job Market." Promise that if at any point during the hiring process you feel the job appears too low or not one where you will bring the full engagement needed to excel in the position, you will withdraw your candidacy. Your willingness to walk away tells them you are motivated if you stay in the game. 2. Take salary off the table Make it clear that you're flexible about salary and that your previous earnings are not relevant to your current job search. "Tell the hiring manager that you work for both green dollars and personal satisfaction dollars," Sollman says. "Lately you've had a deficit in personal satisfaction dollars and you want a chance to try something new." 3. Put the issue out there Ask the interviewer if he or she sees any positives or negatives to your candidacy based on your higher qualifications. Get the issue on the table so it can be addressed, Mathison suggests. 4. Use your accomplishments "Tell the hiring manager that you're proud of your accomplishments and you have proven to yourself that you can perform at a more senior level," Sollman said. "Now you're not interested in chasing titles and promotion. You want to make a contribution at a compelling company." 5. Distance yourself from your higher qualifications Be empathetic to those parts of the hiring manager's jobs -- indicate that you have a clearer understanding of what a manager needs from their people. "For example, say you were a manager and are applying to an individual contributor job," Mathison said. "Tell the hiring manager that you are looking for a job that would give you more hands-on technical work and give you a break from the people management and corporate politics." 6. You want to learn If you've held more senior positions at a different kind of company or in a different industry, tell the hiring manager that the best way to really learn about a new industry is from the bottom up, Sollman says. 7. Make a commitment "Tell the employer that you know that job hopping is a major 'don't' in the business world. Say that barring unforeseen circumstances, you are ready to make at least a two-year commitment to the company," Sollman suggests. Copyright CareerBuilder.com 2009. All rights reserved. The information contained in this article may not be published, broadcast or otherwise distributed without the prior written authority .
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"Overqualified" tag a Catch 22 for job seekers who can't get hired at their level .
Employers may fear overqualified applicants will jump ship, take their jobs .
Experts advise to put the issue out there so it can be addressed in interviews .
Tell interviewers you want to learn new skills, will make a commitment to stay .
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11e37e6f53bee7b47cd3ca1a3fa2d18e4a571b44
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With shouts, cheers and fireworks, Seattle Seahawks fans celebrated a dominant victory in the Super Bowl - the city's first major sports championship in more than 30 years. As the team beat Denver Broncos 43-8, a swarm of fans who had been watching it in the West Coast city swarmed across the city, clambering on buildings and pounding on passing cars. The city quickly descended into chaos as 3,000 revelers swamped the city, climbing on buildings, smashing glass and ripped down street signs. Scroll down for video . Clean up: Police officers attempt to move revellers on from downtown Seattle where thousands of fans gathered to celebrate the Seattle Seahawks' Super Bowl victory . Rowdy: Police officers clear people from the streets of downtown Seattle while Seattle Seahawks fans celebrate after watching their team win the Super Bowl . Raucous: Hundreds of Seattle Seahawks fans celebrate in the middle of 1st Avenue in Seattle, Washington, after their team's victor over the Denver Broncos in the Super Bowl . Anticipating rowdy celebrations, the . city's police had earlier tweeted a warning that they would be 'making . sure everyone is celebrating safely'. Police dressed in riot gear were patrolling the streets, with an anticipated 3,000 fans expected to party all night. In downtown Seattle there were reports of people dancing on top of cars and the News Tribune reported hearing bangs, but said it couldn't tell if it was fireworks or celebratory gunfire. Some revelers dismantled street signs around Pioneer Square and burned a Broncos hat as the riotous celebrations continued. Crowd control: Police officers disperse a crowd celebrating on the street after the Seattle Seahawks won the NFL Super Bowl XLVIII in Seattle, Washington . A Seattle Seahawks fan celebrates by drinking vodka straight out of the bottle after watching his team win the Super Bowl . High spirits: Seattle Seahawks fans climb traffic lights and trees during a rowdy celebration in downtown Seattle, Washington . Seattle Seahawks fans celebrate while watching the Super Bowl at Fuel, a bar in Seattle, Washington . Glory: Seattle Seahawks outside linebacker Malcolm Smith reacts as he returns an interception for a touchdown against the Denver Broncos during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVIII . Champions: Seattle Seahawks player Malcolm Smith sprawls out across the confetti-covered pitch after his team's Super Bowl victory . Zach Miller and Russell Wilson dumper Gatorade on head coach Pete Carroll during the Super Bowl . Jubilant: Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson dumps Gatorade on the head of head coach Pete Carroll during the second half of Super Bowl XLVIII . Spectacular: Fireworks light up MetLife Stadium at the end of the halftime show of Super Bowl XLVIII between the Seattle Seahawks and the Denver Broncos in East Rutherford, New Jersey . Explosive: The MetLife Stadium put on a stunning halftime show at Super Bowl XLVIII - lighting up the sky with a breathtaking fireworks display . The city's historic pergola, a glass-roofed structure built in 1909, was feared damaged after hordes started clambering over the fragile building, and smashing its roof, Kiro7 News reported. By the early hours of Monday, only one arrest had been reported, after a fan fired celebratory gunfire in his yard. A 60-year-old man was arrested, described as slightly intoxicated, was arrested for discharging a weapon within the city limits, and a shotgun was impounded after neighbors complained in Bellingham. The evening had started with fans of both teams feeling they were in with a chance of victory. But in one of the most one-sided Super Bowls in history, watched on by an array of A-list celebrities, Seattle Seahawks supporters soon realised it was going to be their day. Stars: Celebrities David Beckham and former F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton attend Super Bowl XLVIII at MetLife Stadium . Selfie: Kate Upton tweeted a picture of her enjoying the game, along with the caption: 'Super Bowl party!' Support: Actor Andy Samberg, from the left, Katie Couric, and Terry Crews get fired up for the Super Bowl XLVIII on Sunday . Smile: Former NFL player Warren Sapp, left, and actress Jennifer Garner attend pose for a picture together during the Super Bowl . In New York, where several blocks around Times Square have been hosting Super Bowl events, the Empire State building glowed green, and fans in the team's colors partied in the street. The last time a major Seattle sports franchise won a championship was in 1979 when the Supersonics took the NBA title. 'The 12th Man are very vocal, very passionate fans, but they don't get out of control. And we don't expect that to change, but we are prepared and we do have a plan,' Seattle police spokesman Mark Jamieson said. Mayor Ed Murray said in a statement that an official Seahawks victory parade would happen at 11am Wednesday. Emotional: Longtime Seattle Seahawks fan Derek Traill, right, cries as he and friend Tawnie Andal watch their team win the team's NFL Super Bowl XLVIII against the Denver Broncos at F.X. McRory's in Seattle, Washington . Champs: A fan holds up a newspaper front page celebrating the Seahawks' 43-8 win, left, over the Denver Broncos in the Super Bowl XLVIII while a man, right, walks off with a 1st Ave street sign in Pioneer Square . Victory: Seahawks fans cheer their team on as they watch the game in a Seattle bar . In the team's hometown, the party become more riotous, with fans clambering over signs . Crowds clamber over an historic building in Seattle, smashing its glass roof as celebrations got out of hand . Riot police watch over a crowd of revelers in Seattle . But Wednesday was too far away for . the thousands of fans who had cheered the Seahawks to victory from bars . and venues across Seattle. Dramatic footage from the city center showed a swelling crowd yelling and filling a busy road after the Sunday night win. With yells and car horns blaring, the crowd surrounded one vehicle and pounded on its roof and sides as they celebrated. Students set fire to a couch and other debris as rowdy celebrations got underway in Seattle . Moments after the Seahawks' victory fans spilled across a Seattle road, surrounding a car that they pounded on . Seattle Seahawk fans celebrate their team's 43-8 victory over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XLVIII in downtown Seattle, Washington . Jubilation: Seattle Seahawk fans celebrate their team's 43-8 victory over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XLVIII in downtown Seattle, Washington . Dressed in the team's colors, Monica Atkiinson, left, and Stephanie Powell celebrate . In the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Seattle the win sparked a moment of passion in these two fans . This fan was confident of a win early on in the game as he watched the Super Bowl at Seattle's Nest bar . Other . fans set fire to bonfires in parks and streets, as a night of rowdy . celebrations got under way. In the University District, near the . University of Washington, fire crews extinguished at least one bonfire . shortly after the victory. Senayet Woldemarian, a 29-year-old physical therapist, shrieked giddily and waved her Seahawks flag at honking cars on a North Seattle street: 'We got our first Super Bowl!' Her friend, Taylor Olcott, 28, said it reminded her a little of being in Boston in 2004, when the Red Sox won baseball's World Series for the first time since 1918. Seattle's Space Needle is lit by fireworks as the city celebrates its victory . The Empire State building is illuminated in green and blue as New York marks the Seahawks' victory . Fans dressed in gorilla outfits and Seahawk shirts party in New York's Times Square on Sunday night . 'This is the first time I've really seen Seattle passionate about anything,' she said. 'It's very exciting.' 'We're all in euphoria right now,' Steve McVay, 43, said. 'It's a huge deal for the city. Since the Sonics we haven't won anything.' John Caro and his wife, Corina, both 59, whooped their way down Lake City Way in North Seattle, high-fiving passersby. 'This is my ultimate dream!' Caro shouted. 'We have waited so freakin' long for this!' In a packed Seattle bar balloons in the team's colors are released as they beat the Denver Broncos . In bars across the city, fans had gathered to watch the Seahawks take a clear victory . There was an altogether different mood in Denver, as fans turned in for an early night after their team's crushing defeat. Denver Police had braced for trouble, but the Bronco's loss and icy weather - it was well below freezing when the game ended - worked together to keep the mood subdued. Near downtown, a man was shot and critically injured in the street near a home where he had attended a Super Bowl party, but it wasn't known if the shooting was related to the party, police spokesman Sonny Jackson said. A patrol of police on bikes was sent out in Seattle as the Seahawks won the Super Bowl . About 3,000 fans took the streets of Seattle after the Seahawks won the Super Bowl . It was a far cry from 1999, when the Broncos beat the Green Bay Packers in the Super Bowl. Celebrations deteriorated into violence. Crowds smashed downtown Denver store windows and overturned cars. On Sunday, some news outlets switched quickly from game coverage to previews of the upcoming Winter Olympics in Sochi or focused on top Super Bowl commercials.
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Celebrities packed the stadium to watch Seahawks win the Super Bowl .
43-8 victory over Denver Broncos sparked a night of raucous celebration .
Police dressed in riot gear sent out as city is swamped by revelers .
Glass roof of historic building smashed and street signs ripped down .
Students set bonfires and crowds swarm across roads as 3,000 fans take to streets to party .
NFL victory is first time a city team has won a major championship in more than 30 years .
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11e4c824294e251c5c1599f7247f6e763f77e274
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By . Jack Crone . The world's most expensive property has gone on sale - but to live in it will cost you a staggering £13,500 per square foot. The luxury Hong Kong home, located in the city's exclusive Victoria Peak district, has been placed on the market for £63 million. While the total price may not seem much compared to some of the world's most sought-after residences, the house has a saleable area of just 4,600 feet. This is around one quarter of the size of Britain's most expensive flat - which recently sold for £140 million in London's Hyde Park. Property includes a 4,480 square foot garden, an 800 square foot accessible rooftop and separate 275 square foot terrace, 900 square feet of car parking space and a private pool . The penthouse has a saleable area of just 4,600 feet - making it the planet's priciest property by area . Listed by developers Sun Hung Kai Properties, the house is ranked as No.1 in the Twelve Peaks development at 12 Mount Kellet Road in Hong Kong. The company released a price list for all 12 houses in the lavish complex last night, with the penthouse being by far the most expensive. It includes a 4,480 square foot garden, an 800 square foot accessible rooftop and separate 275 square foot terrace, 900 square feet of space to park a car and a private pool. The house is located on Victoria Peak, a mountain on Hong Kong Island hugely popular with tourists because of its spectacular views. Spectacular: Victoria Peak, where the house is located, is hugely popular with tourists visiting Hong Kong . Stunning: The penthouse looks out over the harbour of Hong Kong from one of the city's most exclusive addresses . Whether the penthouse will be able to command the full asking price remains in doubt. Sale of two of the other properties in the development, No.11 and No.12, had to be cancelled after all of the bids fell short of asking prices, the South China Morning Post reported. Both smaller than the penthouse, No.11 was listed at £8,300 per square foot, while No.12 is being offered at £8,700 per square foot. The penthouse is part of the exclusive Twelve Peaks development - which have all been put on the open market by Sun Hung Kai Properties . The most expensive home sold in Hong Kong to date was 5,989 square-foot and also located on the Peak. It was bought for £61 million in 2011 - working out as £10,250 per square foot.
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At £63 million, house is most expensive ever in terms of cost per square foot .
Listed by Sun Hung Kai Properties, it is one of 12 luxury homes on market .
Liveable area just 4,600 ft - a quarter of the size of £140 million London flat .
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BANGKOK, Thailand (CNN) -- Bedraggled, hungry and dazed, the refugees arrived on the shores of Thailand after fleeing one of the most repressive governments in the world -- the hard-line military regime in Myanmar, also known as Burma. This picture provided to CNN is said to show refugees being towed out to sea by the Thai army. But a CNN investigation has uncovered evidence that for hundreds of Rohingya refugees -- members of a Muslim minority group -- abuse and abandonment at sea were what awaited them in Thailand, at the hands of Thai authorities. Extraordinary photos obtained by CNN from someone directly involved in the Thai operation show refugees on their rickety boats being towed out to sea, cut loose and abandoned. One photo shows the Thai army towing a boatload of some 190 refugees far out to sea. Watch the backstory on the investigation » . For days, accusations have been carried in several regional papers that the Thai army has been systematically towing boat-loads of Rohingya refugees far out to sea and setting them adrift. The army denied it, and the Thai government has launched an inquiry. CNN's investigation -- based on accounts from tourists, sources in Thailand and a Rohingya refugee who said he was on a boat towed back out to sea -- helps to piece together a picture of survival thwarted by an organized effort not just to repel arriving refugees, but to hold them prisoner on shore, drag them in flimsy boats far out to sea and then abandon them. Watch CNN's investigation into reports of refugees being set adrift » . Three tourists recently voiced concern to CNN over what they had seen -- and in some cases photographed -- near Thailand's tourist areas. One tourist provided CNN with photos last week of refugees detained by Thai authorities on a beach near a tourist site, with the refugees prone on the sun-bleached sand while guards stood nearby. "Whenever someone raised their head or moved, they [guards] would strike them with a whip," said Australian tourist Andrew Catton. A CNN crew traveled to a remote stretch of the Thai coast four hours north of the tourist island of Phuket to investigate the growing reports that the Thai military was secretly detaining Rohingya refugees before towing them out to sea and setting them adrift. In an isolated beach area, debris including sandals and campfire remnants indicated that large numbers of people had been there but were nowhere to be seen. The crew then traveled to a nearby island, where residents reported that refugees who had escaped were living in the jungle. In one hamlet, villagers had captured a Rohingya man they believed had been living in the jungle for days. The refugee, who identified himself as Iqbal Hussain, told CNN he was on one of six boats in a makeshift refugee fleet that arrived in Thailand in December. He said all six boats with their refugee cargo were towed back out to sea in January, and five of the six boats sank. His boat made it back to shore, and he hid in the jungle for days until nearby villagers captured him. In broken English and using sign language and drawings, he described what happened to the other men on the boats: . "All men dead," he said, putting the number of dead at several hundred. The Rohingya, a persecuted minority in Myanmar, have been fleeing their country in rickety boats for years, in search of a better life. In Thailand, many instead have found deprivation and the possibility of desertion far off shore, according to the CNN investigation. The source who provided CNN with photos of refugees in a boat being towed out to sea stressed that the Thai army had given the refugees food and water, but he also confirmed that the boats had been pulled for more than two days into international waters before they were set adrift. His account directly contradicts briefings by senior Thai army sources who denied any such operation was undertaken. A source in the Thai military, after extensive questioning, did confirm to CNN that the Thai army was operating a dump-at-sea policy. But the source defended it, insisting that each boatload of refugees was always given sufficient supplies of food and water. That source claimed local villagers had become afraid of the hundreds of Rohingya arriving each month, and that they were accusing the refugees of stealing their property and threatening them. CNN asked the government for comment and was told that an investigation was being launched and that Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has plans to call an emergency meeting once the country's foreign minister returns from Cambodia. Panitan Wattanayagorn, a government spokesman, gave no timeline for the foreign minister's return or the emergency meeting. He did say the government is taking the matter very seriously.
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CNN finds evidence hundreds of Rohingya refugees abandoned at sea by Thai army .
Photos show refugees on their rickety boats being towed out to sea, cut loose .
The army denies setting refugees adrift; Thai government has launched an inquiry .
Rohingya have been fleeing persecution of the hard-line military regime in Myanmar .
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By . Ray Massey, Transport Editor . Thousands of British air passengers were stranded abroad last night as the chaos caused by striking French air traffic controllers worsened. Many were forced to sleep on the floors of airports in Mediterranean resorts as they awaited news of rescheduled flights. Some face being stranded for a week. Amid ‘nightmare’ scenes at popular holiday destinations in Spain and Portugal, flights were cancelled with no warning in the early hours of the morning, leaving parents to struggle with crying children as they awaited news. Scroll down for video . Delays: Passengers at Stansted Airport faced delays as striking French air traffic controllers caused chaos across Europe, causing delays and cancellations for flights to France, Spain and Portugal . Frustrated travellers complained of a lack of information from airline staff. Even when staff were able to provide details of a rescheduled flight, they admitted there was no guarantee it would not also fall victim to the strike. With the walkout due to last until Monday, many travellers were facing the prospect of waiting until next week to be flown home, prompting angry scenes at some airports as holidaymakers queued for hours only to receive little concrete information. Airlines including Ryanair, easyJet and British Airways were forced to book thousands of emergency hotel rooms for stranded passengers. Long wait: Thousands of travellers are now waiting to hear when they will be able to make their journeys after the six-day strike was cut short . On the second day of the walk-out, airline bosses accused the militants of holding them to ransom and called for staff from neighbouring countries to take over French airspace. Airlines have been ordered to ground up to a quarter of flights that would normally use French airspace. Problems intensified yesterday after air traffic controllers in Belgium also walked out. EasyJet, which has cancelled 300 flights over two days, said it had booked 2,800 hotel rooms to deal with passengers unable to fly home. Ryanair cancelled around 250 flights for the second day in a row. British Airways cancelled 30 flights. Kenny Jacobs, marketing chief at Ryanair, said EU governments needed to get tough on French air traffic controllers to stop them ‘holding people to ransom’ with their annual walk-outs. ‘It’s a disgrace,’ he said. ‘The French need to sort this out. Ronald Reagan had the right idea when he broke the air traffic controllers’ strike in the USA by sending in the military to run it. ‘Strike action by air traffic controllers should be made illegal. And if they do go on strike, neighbouring EU countries should be able to operate the airspace over France to keep planes flying.’ An easyJet spokesman said: ‘We have booked around 2,800 hotel rooms to date and some passengers will also have booked their own accommodation and will claim it back from us. ‘We are advising passengers on cancelled flights to either claim a refund or re-book after the strike period has finished.’ That will see some heading back in the middle of next week at the earliest. Among those stranded is Sophia Ali, 31, from London, who had been in Ibiza for a friend’s wedding when her flight home was cancelled without warning. ‘The scenes at the airport were horrendous,’ she said. ‘Some people were swearing and kicking off. As soon as the flight was cancelled the internet went down so you couldn’t get information. ‘One guy had been in Ibiza for a stag do and was getting married in a couple of days’ time so had to get back for the wedding. But he couldn’t. He was beside himself.’ Chemistry student Liam Stephens, 22, risks missing his graduation at Bath University next week because his flight home from Portugal to Bristol was cancelled last night. Queues at UK airports were less severe than on Tuesday because airlines had ‘pre-cancelled’ most of the affected outbound flights overnight and alerted passengers in advance by text or email. The strike is over job cuts as part of an EU plan for a ‘single European sky’.
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Fights in holiday destinations like Spain and Portugal cancelled without warning in the early hours of the morning .
Airlines forced to book thousands of hotel rooms .
for stranded passengers .
Companies ground up to 25% of flights that normally use French airspace .
EasyJet has cancelled 300 flights over two days and Ryanair 250 .
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A 21-day quarantine for all military personnel serving in Ebola stricken areas of West Africa was approved by Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel Wednesday. The quarantine was pushed for by the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Hagel said. Initially the measure will apply to all personnel leaving the West Africa area. But Hagel said the policy will be reviewed within 45 days. The policy creates a separate set of rules for military members than what the White House has pushed for civilian health care workers. President Obama has argued that civilian volunteer health workers returning from aid trips to Africa should not be quarantined and the White House has urged states not to impose their own quarantine policies. Science, Obama has said, does not support the need for a quarantine. Related: Army major general speaks to CNN from inside quarantine . Asked to explain the discrepancy between civilians and the military, he said Tuesday service members have been sent to the Ebola region by him and health workers are going as volunteers. "It's part of their mission that's been assigned to them by their commanders and ultimately by me, the commander-in-chief," the president told reporters on the White House's South Lawn on Tuesday."So we don't expect to have similar rules for our military as we do for civilians," Obama said. "They are already, by definition, if they're in the military under more circumscribed conditions." The chiefs did not have new scientific or medical data about Ebola when they pressed for Hagel to approve the quarantine the military official said. "This is simply about the chiefs looking at the best way to take care of the force, the families and the communities to which they are returning," a military official told CNN. This effort "is an admittedly conservative approach," the official said. In their discussions the chiefs—who each head one of the military services branches—noted that many of the US troops are young and inexperienced in any medical issues. There was concern they might not adhere to an informal protocol of taking their temperature twice a day on their own. Hagel said Wednesday that the families and communities in the US and Europe where the troops are located had also expressed concern. "They very much wanted a safety valve on this," Hagel said at an event in Washington. Rep. Mike Turner, a Republican from Ohio who serves on the House Armed Services Committee, said he was "encouraged" by the new policy. "This act will ensure that our service men and women, their families, and our communities have the confidence that every necessary precaution is taken to ensure their health and safety." The US already has 1,000 troops on the ground, and that force could grow to a total of 4,000. "That's the biggest group of Americans there," the official said, noting that also was a factor in the chiefs thinking. "The chiefs believe it is better to start more restrictive and then re-assess as we get further into the Ebola operation," the official said. For now, troops will be held in quarantine at bases designated by each of the military services. There will be provisions for compassionate leave—allowing troops to leave quarantine if they have a family emergency such as an illness or death. The quarantine will also not apply to those just briefly travelling to Liberia, or aircrews flying in an out, although everyone is told to monitor their temperatures. Related: New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie says he won't change Ebola policy . Army Chief of Staff Ray Odierno ordered an Army wide quarantine for soldiers coming back from West Africa, beginning with Major General Darryl Williams and his team. Defense officials had said the quarantine for Williams was ordered because he and his group had traveled extensively around Liberia, although they had no direct contact with Ebola patients.
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Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel announced a new quarantine policy for troops returning from Africa .
The policy runs counter to what President Obama has pushed for civilian aid workers .
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11e587bce63b9cf7cec52621c6ac59c13cf8503a
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(CNN) -- Temporary calm returned to Rio de Janeiro on Saturday as anxious residents remained locked in their homes, awaiting developments in the week-long conflict that has turned their picturesque city into a de facto war zone. Dozens of armored military vehicles combed the streets of Rio on Saturday, video from CNN's Brazilian affiliate TV Record showed, as authorities prepare for another incursion into some of the city's notoriously dangerous shanty towns, including the Alemao favela complex -- a virtually impenetrable labyrinth of slums in the city's north. Police spokesman Mario Sergio Duarte declared an ultimatum Saturday against drug gangs in the complex, stating that a military attack is imminent. "We will not retreat in our decision to bring peace to Rio," Duarte said. "We are in our final stages of reaching the traffickers in the Alemao complex." "Whoever wants to turn himself in, do it now," he said. At least 35 people have died, 174 arrested and 123 detained since violence broke out Sunday as a response by drug gangs to an increased police presence in the crime-ridden slums, known as favelas, police said, according to the official Agencia Brasil. More than 96 vehicles have been burned. Gangs continued to torch buses and exchange fire with police Friday throughout the city's northern neighborhoods as more than 800 federal troops arrived to support Rio's civil authorities who are often outnumbered and outgunned by the powerful criminal groups. Freedom of movement also has been curtailed in the conflict zones as police put up blockades in an effort to prevent fugitive criminal gang members from finding protection in neighboring slums. Residents trapped in the crossfire and unable to go to their jobs have waved white flags outside their homes asking drug gangs to spare them, as criminals spray police with semi-automatic weapon fire and military artillery. On Friday, police detained the wife of Marcinho V.P, a renowned drug lord who allegedly ordered the coordinated attacks from a prison in the state of Parana. According to local reports, the conflict began November 21 when disgruntled drug traffickers decided to launch an attack against Rio residents to protest the government's crackdown on their organizations. TV Record showed two letters allegedly written by drug lords from maximum-security prisons, protesting the government's crackdown on drug trafficking and vowing to avenge the arrest of their members. Ocimar Santos, president of Rocinha.org, the website for Rio's largest favela, said that for people who live in Rio's slums, this is business as usual. "They are listening to the rumors and laying low," Santos said. If the conflict spills over to Rocinha, residents there are ready for violence, he said. But for the first time, Santos said, they will side with the police. "We now perceive that our population feels more protected and respected by the police with the creation of these ... peace units," he said. Another development in the conflict is the direct involvement of the federal government. Brazil's Defense Minister Nelson Jobim said that in addition to the 800 federal troops, other reinforcements in support of local police are being directed to Rio amid fears that the crisis could spill over to neighboring states. "This is not a time to bypass risks, it is the moment to face them," Jobim said Friday. Brazil's President Luiz Inacio da Silva said his government will do all it can to support the government of Rio de Janeiro in its fight against drug gangs. Antonio C. Costa, president of Rio de Paz, a local NGO, drew attention to the civilian victims of the clashes and blamed Rio's state government for creating a so-called "urban Vietnam" in the city -- the future site of the 2016 Summer Olympics. "The world's eyes are on Rio de Janeiro, praying that we find a solution to the security crisis, but also intent on knowing whether we are handling this as civilized people," Costa said.
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Police spokesman says a military attack on notorious slum is imminent .
"Whoever wants to turn himself in, do it now," he says .
Civilians are trapped in the crossfire .
The violence is a response by drug gangs to an increased police presence in slums .
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11e5d72c376ff56d0ab0a317292c06828a71b39e
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By . Ted Thornhill . PUBLISHED: . 11:08 EST, 15 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 12:30 EST, 15 January 2014 . Police had to rescue an Indian butler after he was allegedly kidnapped by wealthy politician Gajraj Singh Jadeja's family when they realised he had left the domestic help his entire £59 million fortune. The butler, Vinu Bhai, who worked for Jadeja for 40 years, said he had no idea he was suddenly to become so rich. He said: ‘When I heard he was ill and then that he had died I expected to be without a job and I was wondering how I might manage to pay to keep my family and children with a roof over their heads. In the money: Vinu Bha and his wife, with a picture of their benefactor, politician Gajraj Singh Jadeja, whose generosity has transformed their lives . But according to the will he told me that he saw me as a son and my children as his. I always knew we were close but I am enormously honoured that he chose to do this for me.’ Jadeja was the Congress leader in India's western Gujarat state before he died last year on September 21. But when his will was read three months later his many relatives were in for a shock when it was revealed they were to get nothing. Jadeja had no children and had decided instead to reward his loyal servant by giving him his property, including land and buildings, cash and shares. Bond: Jadeja (left) said in his will that he saw butler Bhai (right) as his son, and Bhai's children as his . The relatives allegedly kidnapped the butler to force him to admit the will was a fake, said police, but the man had been freed after he was spotted being bundled by force into a car by hired thugs. Bhai's son Amit Jaipal said: ‘There were eight men, they forced their way into our home and took my father away. It took police a day to find him and free him but he didn't suffer from the ordeal thank goodness.’ A police spokesman said that the eight had been arrested and were facing charges of kidnapping, but declined to name them all or confirm their relationship with the dead man.
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Vinu Bhai worked for wealthy politician Gajraj Singh Jadeja for 40 years .
Jadeja left Bhai his entire fortune, saying that he considered him to be a son .
The politician's family were convinced that Bhai had forged the will .
They allegedly dispatched eight thugs to kidnap him to force a confession .
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11e5f652af99a05c41640f14064b46169599b8cd
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By . Emma Thomas . PUBLISHED: . 10:00 EST, 31 October 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 12:31 EST, 31 October 2013 . A Catholic school worker has won an employment tribunal against her former school after she was fired for appering in a racy music video. Veronique Bonazzola was sacked from her post at the school in the south of France after she appeared in the rap video as a scantily-clad 'cougar', The Local reports. The 50-year-old school assistant also worked as a part-time actor and appeared in the video called Fontaine do Jouvence (Fountain of Youth) by the rapper Novia. Scroll down for video . Racy: Bonazzola (left) ends up in a hot tub with rapper Novia (right) with a bottle of champagne . Champagne: Bonazzola (pictured left) wore a skimpy bikini in a video for the French rapper Novia (centre) Fired: The 50-year-old Catholic school assistant was sacked after appearing in the video . Veronique Bonazzola was sacked from her post at the school in the south of France after she appeared in the rap video as a scantily-clad 'cougar' She won the 'victory against injustice' against her former employer, Collège Notre Dame de la Tramontane, who fired her after 20 years working as a classroom supervisor. The video came to light last spring when a group of upset parents complained to the school and showed them the video. In the clip, a dark-haired Bonazzola is chased by the rapper and dances suggestively with the other women before cosying up to 27-year-old Novia. The pair then celebrate by pouring champagne down her chest in a Jacuzzi. Claude Backès, director-general of the Catholic secondary school, said Bonazzola’s activity was 'incompatible with the nature of this person’s work and the rules of the institution'. Lawyer Pierre Chami said Bonazzola felt upset by the termination of her employment. 'She doesn’t understand why, after 20 . years of good and loyal service, she’s being thrown out like some . unsavoury character for a video that’s shorter than five minutes,' he . said. Watch the full video here . Bonazzola said: 'When the whole . affair broke, I got the impression that (the school’s management) were . going to burn me at the stake in the school yard.' 'They found it scandalous, but most of the parents and students supported me,' she added.Bonazzola sued her school for wrongful termination of her job. A . court in nearby Grasse ruled in her favour and criticised the school . for not making clear to Bonazzola how her acting career might affect her . day job. The school . 'never gave her the slightest warning about any possible threat that . such activities might pose to her professional obligations,' the court . said. Video: In the clip, a dark-haired Bonazzola (right) is chased by the rapper and dances suggestively with the other women before cosying up to 27-year-old Novia . Victory: Bonazzola sued her previous employer and won after a court ruled in her favour . Dancing: Catholic school employee Bonazzola dances suggestively with other women in the music video . The tribunal ruled she was sacked . 'without any real or serious cause' which could shape future cases in . France where a person's life outside work, beliefs and activities could . affect an organisation they work for. Bonazzola, . who is still unemployed, celebrated the verdict in a post on her . Facebook page, calling it 'a wonderful victory against injustice.' 'The . courts have recognized everyone’s right to do as they please with their . free time, and condemned abusive firings,' she said. 'A . massive big-up to my lawyer Mr. Chami and everyone who showed their . support. An even larger big-up to everyone who talked crap (about me)!' The school has decided not to appeal the decision. Demure: Veronique Bonazzola performing Edith Piaf's Chante L'hymme a L'amour. The video clip is a stark contrast to the bikini-clad performance in the French rap video .
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Veronique Bonazzola sacked from her post at the school in south of France .
Collège Notre Dame de la Tramontane fired her after 20 years .
50-year-old Bonazzola hailed the decision as 'victory against injustice'
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11e767806301b1aa25b7878e83eb0c8b4ce34c94
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(CNN) -- Rafael Nadal must get past big-serving home hope Andy Roddick to have a shot at his first title in 11 months at the Sony Ericsson Open in Miami. The Spanish fourth seed crushed No. 8 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga of France 6-3 6-2 on Wednesday night to move into the semifinals of the ATP Tour event, which has already seen top-ranked Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray fall by the wayside. Sixth seed Roddick is hoping to repeat his 2004 victory, with the American in similarly dominant form as he dispatched Nadal's 33rd-seeded compatriot Nicolas Almagro 6-3 6-3. Nadal, twice a losing finalist in the southern American city, also reached the last four at Indian Wells two weeks ago on his return from a knee injury. "When you play against Andy, it always is a big challenge," he told the ATP Tour Web site. "His serve, and he's a very good competitor. He's a winner. Gonna be a very tough match, no? I think I have to play my best tennis to try to win." Roddick, who has not dropped a set so far, will take on a player who will return to No. 3 in the world rankings next week following defending champion Murray's second-round exit. He reached the final at Indian Wells before losing to Nadal's conqueror Ivan Ljubicic, and was also a semifinalist in Miami in 2008. "Sometimes when you're not playing well, everything feels a little bit forced. When you play a lot of matches and play a high level, it feels like everything kind of slows down a little bit," he told the ATP site. "Muscle memory takes over a little bit more, and things kind of just happen. So I think I'm at that stage right now. "Unfortunately with tennis you have to start every day and it's a new one. You're playing well, but you still have to go out and do it every day." In Thursday's quarterfinals, fifth seed Robin Soderling of Sweden takes on No. 13 Mikhail Youzhny of Russia. Czech 16th seed Tomas Berdych, who knocked out Federer on Wednesday, will play Spanish No. 10 Fernando Verdasco. Meanwhile, Justine Henin will take on fellow Belgian Kim Clijsters in a battle of the former number ones in the semifinals of the women's event in Miami. Henin came from behind to oust second seed Caroline Wozniacki, beating the young Dane 6-7 (5-7) 6-3 6-4. "I was in a lot of trouble in the first set. It wasn't easy for me to find a good balance of aggression and patience," Henin, who was given a wildcard entry, told the WTA Tour Web site. "It was the kind of match I really needed. Even though I was a bit tired in the end, I was able to win. In terms of my fighting spirit, I proved I can still do it. That was important for me." Clijsters, the 14th seed, defeated No. 9 Samantha Stosur of Australia 6-3 7-5 as she broke to love in the 11th game and then served out for victory. "Kim and I grew up together, arrived on the tour at the same time, played well at the same time, retired at the same time, and now we came back at the same time. It's amazing," Clijsters said. "We have never stopped respecting each other. Never, ever, ever. Even if people talk about it, we never had any problems, Kim and I." Henin has a 12-11 advantage in matches between the two, and the winner of Thursday night's match will take on either American third seed Venus Williams or France's No. 13 Marion Bartoli.
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Rafael Nadal faces Andy Roddick in semifinals of Sony Ericsson Open in Miami .
Spanish fourth seed continues comeback with 6-3 6-2 win over No. 8 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga .
American sixth seed Roddick crushes Nadal's compatriot Nicolas Almagro .
Kim Clijsters to take on fellow Belgian Justine Henin in last four of women's event .
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11e8064d280de9229d724457ae1367974accbe0f
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The families of two men who were fatally shot are suing the New England Patriots and its owners to prevent the football team from paying former player Aaron Hernandez, who has been charged in their slayings. The NFL team and its owner's company, Kraft Enterprises, have been named as co-defendants in a $6 million civil wrongful death lawsuit along with Hernandez. The attorney for the families is asking the court to prohibit the Patriots and its owners from paying Hernandez $3.25 million and other funds that may become due to Hernandez, who has pleaded not guilty to the murder charges. The National Football League Players Association has filed a grievance on behalf of the former tight end after the team failed to pay him the multimillion-dollar sum, which was due in March, the lawsuit says. The wrongful death lawsuit was originally filed in February on behalf of the families of Daniel de Abreu and Safiro Furtado, according to court papers. The lawsuit alleges that the victims' families have sustained both fiscal and emotional damages. Prosecutors say that in July 2012, Hernandez fatally shot de Abreu and Furtado in their car after de Abreu accidentally bumped into Hernandez and spilled his drink at a nightclub earlier in the evening. "We are seeking to have the families who have been victimized by these deaths have some assets set aside that they may be somehow compensated," according to a written statement from William Kennedy, the families' attorney. "The two young men in our case both supported their mothers with their modest earnings. That support and emotional attachment has been lost forever. "Our information is that Hernandez has received over $11M in compensation in the 3 years as a Patriot," Kennedy added. "Part of his funds and assets should be set aside for the victims of his crime. The victims should be compensated." CNN has reached out to the Patriots and Kraft Enterprises but has not yet received a response. Hernandez was charged with murder in the deaths of de Abreu and Furtado in May. He was dropped by the New England Patriots in June 2013 after being charged with first-degree murder in the death of semi-pro football player Odin Lloyd. He has since been incarcerated and has pleaded not guilty to all three murder charges.
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The New England Patriots are being sued along with Aaron Hernandez .
The families of two slain men want to prevent payments to Hernandez .
Aaron Hernandez has pleaded not guilty to three murder charges .
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11e980238e2ed05938a4e88aa8a0f943b429512c
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(CNN) -- Last year, Dr. Kiran Sagar, a cardiologist in Wisconsin, was fired two months after presenting strong data showing that cardiologists in the hospital she worked at misread a substantial number of heart tests. Similarly, a nurse from Columbia Hospital Corp. of America (HCA) was let go after complaining that a doctor was performing unnecessary cardiac procedures, even after an internal investigation found the nurse's claim to be substantiated. And a few weeks ago, the CBS News program "60 Minutes" reported on ER doctors fired for not meeting quotas on the percentage of patients they admitted to the hospital. These recent patterns of firings send yet another strong message to every doctor and nurse who has ever considered speaking up about dangerous and fraudulent medical care: Speak up and risk destroying your career. The culture of health care needs to change. Medical mistakes cause too many needless harm or deaths, yet few people see the problem in this context because we rarely have an open and honest conversation about the quality of health care in America. When we do, it is often behind closed doors. This is a challenge that a new generation of doctors is working to change through initiatives ranging from more transparent bedside care to public reporting of hospital performance. Doctors and nurses increasingly feel disconnected from policymakers and even their own hospitals, some of which have transformed into giant corporations. Despite concerns from the Federal Trade Commission that costs will go up for consumers, hospital mega-mergers are on the rise. This past year saw a large number of hospital mergers and acquisitions in health care. While some hospital executives have commendably used a hospital chain's large size to standardize best practices, others have fallen into the age-old management trap of detaching themselves from the front lines and becoming dangerously out of touch with their own staff. I talk to doctors and nurses around the country every week. One trend that seems clear is that more doctors and nurses are feeling frustrated. A recent national study by Mayo Clinic researchers shows that doctor burnout rate is now up to a staggering 46%. A new phenomenon, quite different from when my father practiced medicine, is that doctors and nurses now say they feel like they are tenants working for their landlord: the hospital management. Often, doctors and nurses know how to make care better and safer but feel stripped of the power to make necessary changes. This worker-management disconnect (even antagonism) in any industry is dangerous. In medicine this workplace atmosphere, complicated by perverse economic incentives and weak systems of accountability, contributes to a hospital culture marked by a lack of a sense of communal ownership in the overall delivery of care. What results is a poorer quality of care, more overtreatment, more fraud, more medical mistakes, and more patients falling through the cracks. According to a 2009 CBS-New York Times poll, 77% of Americans say they are satisfied with the quality of their health care. But what makes people think the health care they're receiving is good? Very little. A Harvard study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reported an alarming fact: 18% of patients were actually harmed by medical care. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that up to 30% of health care procedures, tests and other services do not improve health outcomes. For instance, if you had a medical condition, would you go to a hospital that has performed more than 1,000 unnecessary procedures? Probably not. As much as one-third of all health care expenditures may be going to waste, fraud and unnecessary medical care. This problem is high on the agenda for the American Board of Internal Medicine. Other physician groups have joined the "Choosing Wisely" Campaign to address unnecessary care in American medicine. The Institute of Medicine is calling attention to the problem, and many medical researchers are speaking openly about it. But more needs to be done. Rather than reinforce a closed-door culture in American medicine, hospitals should use their new large size to encourage external and independent peer reviews and create a culture of transparency. Patients should be encouraged to keep a copy of their medical records, not inconvenienced with burdensome processes and extra charges to obtain them. A hospital's front-line health care workers are their work engine, and these people should be encouraged to voice their safety concerns to their managers. Mega-hospitals need to stay true to their mission and not fall into the large corporate pitfalls that can erode the standing of any business. A workplace culture that punishes those who speak up about problems by depriving them of their career livelihood is part of the problem itself. As a surgeon, I sometimes see patients after they have blindly walked into the hands of dangerous, expensive and avoidable care. If we are serious about improving health care quality and lowering costs, we need to address the issue of accountability. Our hospitals must be more accountable to patients and doctors. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Marty Makary.
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Marty Makary: Doctors who talk about fraudulent medical care risk losing job .
Makary: Doctors increasingly feel disconnected with policymakers and hospitals .
He says some hospitals are becoming mega-corporations with little accountability .
Makary: Doctor should be encouraged to voice safety concerns to their managers .
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11ec3be451b57e4312b44eeabb3ae441435c662e
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Los Angeles (CNN)Police in California are pleading for help from the public in the investigation into the shooting of three people and the death of a baby who was later found in a dumpster. Long Beach Police Chief Robert Luna admits that investigators do not have enough information to answer the key questions in the case, but are confident that witnesses can fill in the gaps. Three-week-old Eliza Delacruz was abducted from a home in Long Beach on Saturday night after her mother, father and uncle were shot. The baby's body was found the next day, more than 100 miles away, in a strip mall dumpster in Imperial Beach. "We need to get the coward who committed this violent, senseless act off the street," Luna said at a news conference Monday. "Somebody, somewhere, saw what happened, and we need you to come forward." The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved Tuesday a $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in the infant's death. "I made this motion in collaboration with the Long Beach Police Department to support their aggressive work to bring to justice the person(s) who committed this heinous crime," Los Angeles County Supervisor Don Knabe sad in a statement. "We are asking anyone who has any information to please come forward -- they can remain anonymous." Police are working the leads they have, Luna said. They are interviewing family members and neighbors, and reviewing surveillance footage from the strip mall where Eliza's body was found. But, he added, investigators need help. "As we stand here as police officers, unfortunately we deal with tragedies, but nothing as horrendous as a child -- a baby for that fact -- being taken from her home and then be left in the trash dumpster," he said. "We really, really need your help." Authorities told CNN that the attacker may have known the family. A transient searching for recyclables found the dead baby in the dumpster and alerted the owner of a business, CNN affiliate KGTV reported. Meanwhile, two of the shooting victims remain in critical condition at an area hospital, police said, and a third has been treated and released. CNN's Michael Martinez contributed from Los Angeles.
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County board establishes a $25,000 reward for tips leading to conviction in case .
Three-week-old Eliza was found dead after being abducted .
Her mother, father and uncle were shot at a home in Long Beach .
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11ec81cd14148b13c2c9e44dc57e85d901cc2fef
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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 13:10 EST, 27 September 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 01:40 EST, 28 September 2012 . A mother has slammed discount supermarket Aldi after claiming she found a TOENAIL in her pasta sauce. Tracy Arnold, 46, from Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, made the grim discovery after cooking spaghetti bolognese for herself and her daughter. Horrified: Tracy Arnold, 46, found the man's toe nail in a jar of tomato sauce she bought to make her dinner . Disgusting: Tracy said she initially thought the toenail was a piece of gristle sticking out of her dinner . The pair were about to begin their meal when Tracy's 22-year-old daughter screamed at the sight of the huge toenail sticking out of the family dinner. Mrs Arnold said she was completely shocked by the 'disgusting' discovery, which she had initially thought was a piece of gristle. She quickly realised the foul object was a toenail that had either came from the pasta sauce or from a packet of minced beef she had bought from an Aldi store that morning. She said: 'It was the most disgusting thing I have ever found in food in my life. It was huge, it looked like it had been cut.' Huge: The man's toenail that Tracy found in her food was more than 1cm long . The next day she took the toenail back to the supermarket in Wisbech where staff were shocked by her discovery. But Mrs Arnold is still fuming because she says when she took up the issue with the Aldi head office they showed little care. She is calling for all products to be recalled until a full investigation is carried out and wants to be refunded the £127 she spent on her weekly shop. Fuming: Tracy is demanding a full investigation and a refund for the £127 she spent on her weekly shop . Source: Tracy said the toenail must have been in either the tomato sauce or mince she used to make spaghetti bolognese . A spokeswoman for Aldi said: 'We work hard to provide high quality products for our shoppers and take customer complaints very seriously. 'We have requested that Mrs Arnold returns the product to store so that we can investigate the matter further with our suppliers.'
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Horrified Tracy Arnold from Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, made the grim discovery in a jar of tomato sauce she had used to make spaghetti bolognese .
She initially thought it was a piece of gristle when she first saw the toenail sticking out her dinner .
She is demanding all products be recalled and wants to be refunded the £127 she spent on her weekly shop .
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11ed5f78ad5a2985fcb710e21fbe50b9a2ab558e
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Can a single finger test determine whether you are beautiful or ugly? Apparently so, if the latest social media craze is anything to go by. On Weibo, the Chinese version of Facebook, thousands of users are participating in the 'Beauty and Ugliness Identification Method' also known as the 'finger trap test'. So how do you determine if you're 'beautiful'? Place your index finger against your chin . and nose to see if your lips touch it. If they do, congratulations, you're officially hot. If they don't, just ignore the results. Beauty test: On Weibo, the Chinese version of Facebook, thousands of users are participating in the 'Beauty and Ugliness Identification Method' also known as the 'finger trap test', if your finger touches your lips, you're officially beautiful like James Hollobone, pictured . Even Chinese celebrities have posted photos of themselves trying out the bizarre test, which is trending in over 200,000 Weibo discussions, where the majority of participants are women. The trend, which was spotted by Vocativ.com., is being dubbed China's digital answer to 'Hot or Not'. It is loosely based on the 3.1 ratio theory, which is used by cosmetic surgeons to . create the 'perfect profile' which equates to your nose, lips and chin . all being in a perfect line down your face. Is he hot? The trend is being dubbed China's digital answer to 'Hot or Not'; Paddy Hyslop, pictured, is beautiful, if the test is anything to go by . Dr . Mark Holmes at McIndoe Surgical Centre said of the test: 'This is . actually a bone fide test for lower facial symmetry and proportions. It . is called Rickett's E-line. 'Like . the Golden Ratio devised by the ancient Greeks, they are tests . experienced cosmetic doctors use when assessing and planning cosmetic . treatments. 'Is . it a sign of beauty? That's a stretch. But part of beauty is determined . by symmetry and correct proportions. However, it take no account of . someone's energy and personality.' Not so hot: Bianca London isn't classed as attractive but it's OK, beauty is only skin deep, after all... Consultant cosmetic surgeon Brent Tanner, who works out of the Spire Tunbridge Wells Hospital, Nuffield Health Brighton Hospital and Montefiore, Hove, added: 'Although this trend is based on classical principles that date back to the time of Leonardo Da Vinci it is a very simplistic view and beauty is based on much more than one set of ratios. 'It’s a fun test to do but must be taken with a pinch of salt. Beauty is not only in the eye of the beholder but we must remember that throughout the world different races not only have different characteristics but also different beauty ideals and therefore this is far too general to convey any real meaning.' This concept dates back to the 1950s and the work of the orthodontist Dr. Robert Ricketts, who focused on what he called the 'E-plane'. This is simply a line drawn from the tip of the nose to the tip of the chin. He believed that to have what he called a 'pleasing facial profile', in the average caucasian face, the lips would touch the plane - or in the finger trap's case, the finger- running from the nose to the chin.
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Known as 'Beauty and Ugliness Identification Method' or 'finger trap test'
Based on the 3.1 ratio, used by surgeons to .
create 'perfect profile'
Trending on Weibo, China's answer to Facebook .
Place your index finger against chin .
and nose to see if your lips touch it .
If they do, you're officially 'beautiful'
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11ee72468092d7a8544e82f5c071abaaa9fe9956
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By . Sara Malm . PUBLISHED: . 05:30 EST, 9 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 10:34 EST, 9 December 2013 . A University basketball player is in recovery after being hit by a police car as she crossed a road in Delaware, Ohio. Caroline Welker, 21, was heading over a crosswalk shortly after midnight on Thanksgiving when a police car sent her tumbling down the road. Ms Welker, a player for Ohio Wesleyan University, suffered bruises and a concussion after Officer Mark Jackson hit her on his way to a disturbance call at a restaurant. Scroll down for video . Hit: Basketball player Caroline Welker was sent flying by the police cruiser driver by Officer Mark Jackson . Officer Jackson admitted to not seeing Ms Welker in the crosswalk, and was charged with failure to yield. ‘I have a concussion, and I'm really sore. But thankfully no broken bones,’ Ms Welker told NBC4. ‘Ofc. Jackson is a hardworking and dedicated officer, serving with the Delaware Police Department for ten years,’ Delaware Police Chief Bruce Pijanowski said in a statement. Seconds in: Although Ms Welker can be seen clearly on the dash cam,. Officer Mark Jackson failed to sport her crossing the road . In a hurry: Officer Jackson was on his way to tend to a disturbance call at a nearby restaurant when he ran over Ms Welker . Injury: As she is hit by the car, Ms Welker tumbles down the street and suffers a concussion . Trouble: Officer Walker, who had been cautioned over a crash just two days earlier, rushes over to check on the woman lying in the street . ‘Ofc. Jackson acted appropriately after the incident. He immediately called for a medic and rendered first aid. He fully cooperated with the investigation. ‘Pursuant to standard procedure, a urine sample was collected for analysis, the results of which are still pending’ Delaware Police do not anticipate that alcohol or drugs were involved in the incident and Officer Jackson has paid a $135 fine for hitting Ms Walker after waiving a court appearance.
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Caroline Welker, 21, was hit by a police car as she crossed the road .
Delaware policeman failed to yield on his way to a disturbance call .
Officer had received a caution over another crash just two days earlier .
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11eee7b21002c4b2bd2ffc374a141629cf77a419
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MIAMI, Florida (CNN) -- For 11 years, Pedro Zapeta, an illegal immigrant from Guatemala, lived his version of the American dream in Stuart, Florida: washing dishes and living frugally to bring money back to his home country. Pedro Zapeta, an illegal immigrant, managed to save $59,000 while working as a dishwasher for 11 years. Two years ago, Zapeta was ready to return to Guatemala, so he carried a duffel bag filled with $59,000 -- all the cash he had scrimped and saved over the years -- to the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. But when Zapeta tried to go through airport security, an officer spotted the money in the bag and called U.S. customs officials. "They asked me how much money I had," Zapeta recalled, speaking to CNN in Spanish. He told the customs officials $59,000. At that point, U.S. customs seized his money, setting off a two-year struggle for Zapeta to get it back. Zapeta describes how he lost his money » . Zapeta, who speaks no English, said he didn't know he was running afoul of U.S. law by failing to declare he was carrying more than $10,000 with him. Anyone entering or leaving the country with more than $10,000 has to fill out a one-page form declaring the money to U.S. customs. Officials initially accused Zapeta of being a courier for the drug trade, but they dropped the allegation once he produced pay stubs from restaurants where he had worked. Zapeta earned $5.50 an hour at most of the places where he washed dishes. When he learned to do more, he got a 25-cent raise. After customs officials seized the money, they turned Zapeta over to the Immigration and Naturalization Service. The INS released him but began deportation proceedings. For two years, Zapeta has had two attorneys working pro bono: one on his immigration case, the other trying to get his money back. "They are treating me like a criminal when all I am is a working man," he said. Zapeta's story became public last year on CNN and in The Palm Beach Post newspaper, prompting well-wishers to give him nearly $10,000 -- money that now sits in a trust. Robert Gershman, one of Zapeta's attorneys, said federal prosecutors later offered his client a deal: He could take $10,000 of the original cash seized, plus $9,000 in donations as long as he didn't talk publicly and left the country immediately. Zapeta said, "No." He wanted all his money. He'd earned it, he said. Now, according to Gershman, the Internal Revenue Service wants access to the donated cash to cover taxes on the donations and on the money Zapeta made as a dishwasher. Zapeta admits he never paid taxes. CNN contacted the U.S. Attorneys office in Miami, U.S. Customs and the IRS about Zapeta's case. They all declined to comment. Marisol Zequeira, an immigration lawyer, said illegal immigrants such as Zapeta have few options when dealing with the U.S. government. "When you are poor, uneducated and illegal, your avenues are cut," he said. On Wednesday, Zapeta went to immigration court and got more bad news. The judge gave the dishwasher until the end of January to leave the country on his own. He's unlikely to see a penny of his money. "I am desperate," Zapeta said. "I no longer feel good about this country." Zapeta said his goal in coming to the United States was to make enough money to buy land in his mountain village and build a home for his mother and sisters. He sent no money back to Guatemala over the years, he said, and planned to bring it all home at once. At Wednesday's hearing, Zapeta was given official status in the United States -- voluntary departure -- and a signed order from a judge. For the first time, he can work legally in the U.S. By the end of January, Zapeta may be able to earn enough money to pay for a one-way ticket home so the U.S. government, which seized his $59,000, doesn't have to do so. E-mail to a friend .
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Guatemala native Pedro Zapeta a dishwasher in the U.S. for 11 years .
The illegal immigrant tried to bring $59,000 in savings back to Guatemala .
U.S. customs seized cash when Zapeta failed to fill out form declaring money .
Zapeta, who tried to get the money back for two years, now faces deportation .
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11eeffa6f033febd785c26476aa21afe7f72fb55
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By . Luke Salkeld . PUBLISHED: . 17:28 EST, 1 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 07:57 EST, 2 November 2013 . A pet rabbit has apparently become the latest victim of false widow spiders. Only hours earlier one-year-old Molly had been hopping happily around the garden. But she was found dead in her hutch after it was infested by the poisonous creatures. Recently false widow spiders have put several people in hospital after biting them and even caused a school to be closed temporarily. Victim: The body of the pet rabbit, called Molly, was found next to a spider's web with five false widows crawling around . Molly’s owner Samantha Davies found her dead when she went to feed her two rabbits, Molly and Milly. When the 21-year-old removed Molly’s body, she found a hammock-shaped web and up to five spiders scuttling around the hutch. After using the internet to identify them as false widows, Miss Davies became worried for the safety of her 18-month-old daughter, Rosie. She contacted her local environmental health department in the hope of having her home treated for infestation. Her request was declined, but an officer told her he was 98 per cent certain the spider was responsible for Molly’s death. Yesterday Miss Davies, a kitchen assistant, said: ‘We couldn’t believe it when we saw the spiders. I was really upset when Molly died. Devastated: Samantha Davies, 21, pictured with her 18-month-old daughter Rosie and partner Scott Barnes, was told by an environmental health officer he was 98 per cent certain the pet's death was caused by the spiders . ‘I really didn’t want the spiders around my daughter. We asked environmental health if they could help us, but they refused. ‘If it had been a rat, they would have done something, but not with poisonous spiders.’ Miss Davies, who lives with her partner Scott Barnes and their daughter in Mountain Ash, South Wales, has since disinfected the hutch where Milly still lives, and killed the spiders she found last weekend. Venomous: The false widow spider has caused a school to be closed and has left people with horrific injuries after the attack in recent weeks . The false widow is the most dangerous of the 12 species of biting spider known to be in Britain and cases of people being bitten by the venomous creature have been on the rise. John Catlin, 66, from Bromley, Kent, is still recovering a year after a bite that caused his organs to start shutting down. Bodybuilder Gary Meadows from Teesville, Middlesbrough, required a skin graft when he was bitten in 2011 and has suffered severe reactions to any insect bite since. Layla Benton, 14, was off school for three weeks after her knee swelled up when she was bitten in her bathroom in Basildon, Essex. And last month Dean Academy in Lydney, Gloucestershire, had to close its doors to pupils after the dangerous spiders were found there. The spiders are shiny and black with distinctive cream markings on the abdomen that resemble a horseshoe – or, to some eyes, a skull. They have long, spindly legs and are easily confused with the black widow, a far more venomous cousin not found in Britain. As with most species of spider, it is the female false widow which is the force to be reckoned with. Males tend not to grow much bigger than two centimetres, while females reach up to three centimetres. The first false widow is thought to have come to Britain from the Canary Islands or Madeira in the 1870s in a bunch of bananas. The first recorded sighting was in Torquay, Devon, in 1879.
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Samantha Davies, 21, found Molly's body lying next to a spider's web .
She became worried for the safety of her 18-month-old daughter Rosie .
Environmental health department was '98 per cent certain' spiders caused the pet's death .
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11ef163322a63c64c3383f62defbb1fbf834dcb2
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By . Associated Press . and Sara Malm . Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly will reportedly start chemotherapy and radiation next week. The . treatment plan was outlined Tuesday by Dr. Peter Costantino of Lenox . Hill Hospital in New York City, where the longtime Buffalo Bills star is . being treated for a sinus cancer. Costantino . says he's confident the regimen has a good chance of success. If not, . he says Kelly's skull-base tumor remains operable. Kelly underwent surgery in Buffalo last June to remove cancerous cells from his upper jaw. Scroll down for video . Buffalo Bills Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly, seen in this file photo, Kelly is set to start chemotherapy and radiation next week . The chemotherapy and radiation will target cancer cells in his maxillary sinus and adjacent tissues. In . 11 seasons with the Bills, Kelly appeared in four consecutive Super . Bowls in the 1990s. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame . in 2002. Kelly recently attributed his strength to his faith. 'There is no way I’d be here without my faith,' he told MMBQ.com. “It’s been such a roller coaster. So many things. The Super Bowl losses, the fabulous career, my son born sick, making the Hall of Fame, my son dying, two plates and 10 screws in my back after major surgery, one plate and six screws in my neck after another surgery, a double hernia, the cancer, surgery on my jaw, the cancer coming back, now what I’m facing.' Kelly also admitted to MMBQ his treatment program faces multiple challenges, and that he hopes it works. 'I hope so. I just know there’s a lot of work to do, to shrink the cancer,' he said. 'I just pray it works.' Doctors earlier said the aggressive cancer is ‘very treatable and potentially curable,’ but that surgery is not the optimal treatment for the former Buffalo Bills star. Wife Jill earlier said the radiation and cancer will occur due to ‘complexity and aggressive nature of [Jim's] cancer.' Surgery: Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly, shown here in a picture tweeted by his daughter Erin, left . Writing on her Facebook page, Mrs Kelly said: ‘At this point and time surgery is not the best option for Jim. ‘Because of complexity and aggressive nature of this cancer and after more scans and tests, the plan has changed. ‘At this point, Jim will not be having surgery. The cancer is in areas that surgery cannot successfully eradicate. ‘Therefore, . the medical specialists here in NYC along with our Buffalo team believe . that chemotherapy and radiation are the best option.’ The . news of the change in treatment came as the football player's . daughter, Erin Kelly, posted two heartbreaking pictures of her dad. Sadness: This recent photo provided by Jill Kelly shows Jim Kelly, left, with his daughter, Camryn . Heartbreaking: In another picture, Kelly is seen walking in a hospital ward. 'So thankful that he was up for a little walk today!!! God is good!!!! And He HEALS!!!!' Erin wrote . In one, she's sitting with Kelly on . his hospital bed. The comment reads: 'Watching the Syracuse game with . daddy... he's my buddy! Love him so much!!' In another, Kelly is seen walking, assisted, in his hospital ward. 'So thankful that he was up for a little walk today!!! God is good!!!! And He HEALS!!!!' Erin wrote. Wife Jill wrote on her personal blog nearly two weeks ago that 'the cancer's back, aggressive, and starting to spread.' Happier times: Jill Kelly, from left, Jim Kelly and Camryn Kelly arrive at the 3rd annual NFL Honors at Radio City Music Hall in February, before they knew the cancer was back . Buffalo: Kelly, shown left at 1992's Super Bowl, spent 11 seasons with the Bills before retiring following the 1996 season. He has since made Buffalo his home . The Erie County Medical Center in . Buffalo reiterated the sad news in a statement, adding that the cancer . was found when the former Buffalo Bills star came in for follow-up . testing after last June's oral surgery. The . statement said the hospital's head and neck cancer specialists were . determining a course of treatment. Kelly spent 11 seasons with the Bills before retiring following the 1996 season. He has since made Buffalo his home and former teammates Thurman Thomas, Bruce Smith, and Andre Reed recently visited the former quarterback. Kelly and his family have asked that people keep them in their thoughts and prayers. The cancer battle is not the first tragedy for the family. Kelly's son, Hunter, was born with Krabbe disease, an inherited nervous system disorder. Given little more than three years to live, Hunter died at the age of 8 in 2005.
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Buffalo Bills star will start chemotherapy and radiation next week .
Dr. Peter Constantino says regimen has 'good chance of success'; if not, skull-base tumor remains operable .
Chemo and radiation to target cells in maxillary sinus and adjacent tissues .
The Hall of Famer is being treated at New York's Lenox Hill Hospital .
Kelly had part of his jaw and some teeth removed after diagnosis in June .
Kelly spent 11 seasons with the Bills before retiring after the 1996 season .
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11efa49a05ac267729f8fc5fe2122efc770c2782
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The leading U.S. pediatrician group on Friday urged parents, schools and . communities to vaccinate children against measles in the face of . an outbreak that began at Disneyland in California in December . and has spread to more than 80 people in seven states and . Mexico. The American Academy of Pediatrics said all children should . get the vaccine for measles, mumps and rubella between 12 and 15 . months of age and again between 4 and 6 years old. 'A family vacation to an amusement park - or a trip to the . grocery store, a football game or school - should not result in . children becoming sickened by an almost 100 percent preventable . disease,' Errol Alden, the group's executive director, said in a . statement. Get vaccinated: The American Academy of Pediatrics said all children should get the vaccine for measles, mumps and rubella between 12 and 15 months of age and again between 4 and 6 years old . 'We are fortunate to have an incredibly effective tool that . can prevent our children from suffering. That is so rare in . medicine,' Alden said. The California Department of Public Health has reported 68 . confirmed measles cases among state residents since December, . most linked to an initial exposure at Disneyland or its . adjacent Disney California Adventure Park. Fourteen more cases linked to Disney parks were reported on . Friday out of state - five in Arizona, three in Utah, two in . Washington state and one each in Oregon, Colorado, Nevada and . Mexico. Officials say the outbreak began when an infected person, . likely from out of the country, visited the resort in Anaheim . between Dec. 15 and Dec. 20. Among those infected are at least five Disney employees and . a student at Huntington Beach High School, some 15 miles (24 km) from the park. The school has ordered its unvaccinated students . to stay home until Jan. 29. The outbreak has renewed the debate over the so-called . anti-vaccination movement in which fears about potential side . effects of vaccines, fueled by now-debunked theories suggesting . a link to autism, have led a small minority of parents to refuse . to allow their children to be inoculated. The Los Angeles Times blasted the anti-vaccination movement . in an editorial last week for what it called an 'ignorant and . self-absorbed rejection of science.' Outbreak:The leading U.S. pediatrician group on Friday urged parents, schools and communities to vaccinate children against measles in the face o fan outbreak that began at Disneyland in California . The percentage of children vaccinated for measles in . California is slightly below the national average, according to . the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Barbara Loe Fisher, president of the National Vaccine . Information Center, a group calling for 'informed consent' for . parents regarding vaccinations, said the Disneyland outbreak had . touched off a 'media frenzy.' 'There's a lot of name-calling going on rather than talking . about substantive policy issues,' she said. Homegrown measles, whose symptoms include rash and fever, . was declared eliminated from the United States in 2000. But . health officials say cases imported by travelers from overseas . continue to infect unvaccinated U.S. residents. The sometimes . deadly viral disease can spread swiftly among unvaccinated . children. There is no specific treatment for measles and most people . recover within a few weeks. But in poor and malnourished . children and people with reduced immunity, measles can cause . serious complications including blindness, encephalitis, severe . diarrhea, ear infection and pneumonia.
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The American Academy of Pediatrics said children shouldget vaccinated between 12 and 15 months of age and again between 4 and 6 years old .
Mealses has spread to more than 80 people in seven states and Mexico .
Measles can cause serious complications including blindness, encephalitis, severe diarrhea, ear infection and pneumonia .
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11f1741be600d449cce41a1af52513959a5ed9fa
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Researchers from the University of Manchester have used CT scanning to take high-resolution 3D images of a caterpillar as it morphs into a painted lady butterfly. The scientists were able to track every stage of the caterpillar's development and discovered never-before-seen details, including how early the adult respiratory system appears. The scientists were trialling the use of CT scanners, which are traditionally used by doctors to find tumours and internal injuries in humans, as an alternative to dissection. These images show the pupa of the painted lady butterfly. Taken using CT scanning, the images show anatomical details of the pupa as it grows. The red section is the pupa's digestive organs, also known as the midgut. You can also see the growth of the antennae and the eyes . During the study researchers from Manchester University scanned butterfly pupas, left, using CT scanners. Over the 14-day study the pupas developed and eventually hatched into painted lady butterflies, right . There are four stages of a butterfly's development; the egg, larva, pupa and butterfly. Butterfly eggs are usually tiny and laid on the underside of host plants. Eggs may also be left in areas around the host plant. If eggs are laid early enough in a season they will become butterflies within about a week. If they are laid later in the season the eggs may have to wait until the following season to complete metamorphosis. The next stage is the caterpillar. Caterpillar's can be hairy and their appearance varies between species. Throughout the larval stage a caterpillar has to shed its skin several times in order to grow. The time between these sheddings is called an 'instar', there are usually five 'instars' and they last between two to four weeks. During the final 'instar' the pupa emerges. It is usually camouflaged against the plant they live on. The pupa stage lasts about two weeks, in which time the butterfly develops and breaks out of its chrysalis. Dissection requires killing different specimens at each stage of development to learn more about the insect. Computed Tomography (CT) is a non-intrusive way of scanning the inside of living beings and was used to get detailed images of tiny insects. The Manchester research team scanned nine Vanessa cardui pupas as they morphed into the painted lady butterflies. The pupas studied were 5mm big. They were hung inside a drinking straw and were slowly spun round. The CT scanner was then able to take 2000 X-rays as the caterpillar grew and broke out of its chrysalis. As the insects grew, the 3D images showed the development of the anatomy of the butterflies, including the tracheal airways, the antennae and the midgut. Researchers say that this new technique could be used to study the development of a wide range of insects. The CT scanners used by the University of Manchester to analyse the insides of the painted lady's 5mm pupa captured high-resolution 3D images. On the left of this image you can see the insides of the pupa, including the red midgut and the blue veins. The image on the right is shows the development of the eyes, wings and antennae . These images show how the dorsal (back), lateral (side) and ventral (abdomen) of the pupa changed from day one to day thirteen of the study by University of Manchester. By day 14 of the study, the pupa was ready to morph into the butterfly. In this CT scan image you can see the eyes at the top, the midgut and main internal organs in the centre, and the wings at the bottom . It could specifically be used to see how pesticides affect the development of bees, as the number of honey bees in particular are falling across many regions. The scientists also said they could use CT scanning to see how genetic manipulation affects the development of the fruit fly. Co-author of the study, geologist Russell Garwood told LiveScience: 'To a first approximation, every living thing is an insect, so they're worth understanding'. He claimed that between 50 and 85% of animals on the planet are insects, but most scientists only study a small selection of these bugs. This leaves room to learn much more about insects and how they develop. 'Insects are the main pollinators for the majority of our crops,' so understanding what causes them to become ill is critically important, Garwood said. The researchers also said they can also see the technique being used in forensics to study flesh-eating maggots that eat decomposing bodies. The study featured in the Journal of the Royal Society Interface.
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Researchers from Manchester used pioneering methods to capture the high-resolution images .
CT scanners discovered never-before-seen development stages of the butterfly's anatomy .
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11f1e3830b0fcdcf0b2820e7297fd7ec01522858
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By . Ruth Styles . PUBLISHED: . 10:12 EST, 8 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:33 EST, 8 December 2013 . With its 18-carat rose gold casing and a stunning sparkle that comes courtesy of 395 white diamonds, it's safe to say that the Savelli Champagne Diamond phone isn't your average handset. The £35,000 phone is part of a collection so luxurious it leaves Apple's slick new iPhone 5 looking thoroughly cheap and not at all cheerful. Designed by Switzerland's Alessandro Savelli, other phones in the range are crafted from precious metals, jewels and exotic skins. A phone fit for a billionaire: Designer Alessandro Savelli is behind the £35,000 Champagne Diamond mobile . Other luxury features include an ultra-bombé sapphire crystal screen and high-tech android-powered connectivity. But not every phone in the range is sparkling with diamonds. Among the 11 models available is the sleek Black Sport which has a simple inky leather cover, albeit one crafted from alligator skin. And should you have the cash to spare, the phones have gone on sale in the UK at - where else? - luxury department store, Harrods. 'We carefully select the best diamonds . and set them using the ‘serti neige’ or ‘snow setting’ technique,' reveals the brand on its website. 'Stones of differing diameters sit side-by-side, covering the precious metal to enhance the organic curves of each piece. Luxury: Other Savelli models come encased in iguana (left) and python (right) with rose gold fittings . Outlet: The ultra-luxe phones are available from the Fine Jewellery Room at London department store Harrods . 'Where baguette diamonds are . used, Savelli employs a seamless setting technique for an immaculate . finish.' Expensive though . they might be, the Savelli range, which is based in Geneva and made its . debut at Paris Couture Week last summer, isn't the only mobile phone . range that will leave you at risk of a serious talking to from your bank . manager. Swiss watchmaker . Tag Heuer has also created a range of luxury phones, including models . that come encased in exotic skins and decorated with jewels. The Meridiist range, which is sold at Selfridges, includes the Jewellery Pink Sapphire, which is covered in rose alligator skin and is embellished with 47 precious stones. Even more luxurious is the Jewellery Full Diamonds model, which along with white alligator casing, is decked with 211 shimmering white diamonds. Each of the phones in the Meridiist range also comes with a complimentary concierge service, which, according to the brand, can get everything from reservations in the world's most exclusive restaurants to tickets to sold out shows. Precious stones: Tag Heuer's phones come embellished with white diamonds and pink sapphires . Over recent years, pink sapphires have become an increasingly popular part of the jewellers' repertoire. But not everyone is sold on the stones. In her book, Buried Treasure: Travels Through The Jewel Box, author Victoria Finley reveals that the gems aren't quite what they seem. Chemically rubies and sapphires are identical and are both a gemstone variety of the mineral corundum (aluminium oxide). But while sapphires get their colour from trace amounts of other elements such as titanium, copper and magnesium, only rubies contain traces of chromium - the only material to impart a pink or red colour. As a result, writes Finley, while its perfectly possible to get purple, yellow or even green sapphires, there is no such thing as a pink or red one. For jewellers, this creates a problem, as rubies are graded by their colour. Dark 'pigeon's blood' red is considered the most valuable while pale pink is virtually worthless - so much so that unscrupulous dealers will attempt to heat them in a bid to darken the colour, despite a 50 per cent chance that they'll explode instead. So what do you get when you buy a pink 'sapphire'? The answer is a low grade ruby - a classification endorsed by trade bodies such as International Colored Gemstone Association which doesn't recognise pink sapphires. Like brown diamonds, pink sapphires might be pretty, but in reality, they aren't nearly as valuable as you might think.
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The handset is the work of Swiss designer Alessandro Savelli .
Savelli range includes 11 different models, all encased in exotic skins .
Phones are sold in the UK exclusively at department store Harrods .
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11f2846c3c1223e834155fefa74829144ad3cc77
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The owners of a swingers club in rural Arlington, Texas, have agreed to move on after a wave of furious backlash from their neighbors. David and Shannon Esopenko have been throwing weekly erotic parties in their 4,860-square-foot leased home dubbed 'Eutopia' since May 2014. But in January, after neighbors complained, city officials ordered an end to the festivities on the grounds that Eutopia is an illegal home-business. Despite initially fighting the claim, the couple have decided to close their lease and take the party elsewhere. 'We're moving on,' Mr Esopenko told The Dallas Morning News. 'The city of Arlington isn't going to get our $14,000 in taxes every year.' Scroll down for video . Moving on: The couple who held swingers parties at their home in Arlington, Texas, (pictured) are moving on . Parties: Since May, David Esopenko (right) and his wife Shannon have been throwing these parties at the 4,680-square-foot house called 'Eutopia' located in an upscale North Arlington neighborhood . The couple currently lease the house for the private parties that see a guest list of up to 200 people, with lawn space for 70 vehicles, according to the Star Telegram. Though the club did not charge guests, party-goers were encouraged to make donations: $80 for couples, $20 for single women, and $80 for single men. The city held that these donations rake in thousands of dollars a night for Eutopia, but Mr and Mrs Esopenko claim all profits are used for snacks and drinks. While some of the neighborhood's residents questioned the morality of the establishment that offers food, drinks, and condoms, city officials said it is a zoning issue. Erotic: The Esopenkos lease the house for the private parties that see a guest list of up to 200 people, and has reportedly had nearly 60 of the erotic parties - some with themes . Features: The three-story Eutopia features playrooms with mirrors, a dance floor, a pool, and a kitchen . Furnished: The home, leased to Esopenko by its owner James Self, is furnished, but no one lives there . Zoning: While some of the neighborhood's residents question the morality of the establishment that offers food, drinks, and condoms, city officials say it's a zoning issue . Favorite: Many praised the operations at the venue calling it 'sensual' and their 'favorite place to play' Friends: Esopenko held that he was simply throwing parties for his close friends . Events are permissible in homes if it only takes up 20 per cent of the property, according to Arlington law. But officials said they believed Eutopia's clientele were partying all over the house. The city also held that Eutopia is a business operating out of a single-family home because of its regular hours of operation (each weekend from 8.30pm to 3am), its promotional advertising, and its services which include a valet for the guests and sometimes laundry service. On Thursday, Mr Esopenko said he spoke with the owner, James Self, and they decided it would be 'mutually agreeable' to move the parties elsewhere. He said: 'We’re still gonna throw parties wherever we move. That’s how we like to spend our free time. 'I know one neighbor who had a burr up his butt is probably doing a dance because we’re leaving, but it doesn’t bother us one bit. 'This had nothing to do with zoning. We could say we’re no longer taking donations. It would not have mattered in the least to the neighbors and the city. 'The city tried to make it out like it was zoning. But we were under no delusions. This was all about morality. They knew it, we knew it. They had to say that for political and legal reason. Everybody knows what it was about.' Officials began investigating Eutopia after receiving complaints from neighbors about noise and weekend traffic. Police allegedly sent undercover officers to investigate the alleged 'sex club' after receiving multiple complaints last summer but the officers reported no illegal activity going on in the residence. According to the Telegram, the three-story Eutopia features several playrooms with mirrors, a dance floor, a pool, and a kitchen area. It is completely furnished but there are no permanent residents. Speaking to WFAA, Esopenko defended the club as a healthy alternative to normal clubs: . 'The average person that comes is a nurse, teacher, fireman, policeman, judge, former Arlington city councilman. 'These are people who don't like to go to normal clubs to hang out because they are too dark, too loud.' And the 'lifestyle venue' has received positive reviews on swinger sites like Swinger Date Club. Many praised the operations at the three-story venue calling it 'sensual' and their 'favorite place to play.' Other reviewers have described Eutopia as a 'clean, beautiful home full of sexy, smart people,' the Telegram reports. One reviewer wrote: 'The only drawback I've found is the mattresses are a little hard, but that won't stop me from having fun there.'
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David and Shannon Esopenko were running weekly parties since May .
Their 4,700-square-foot home in rural Texas was dubbed 'Eutopia'
Up to 200 people would come each week for erotic events .
The city of Arlington ordered 'illegal home business' to close .
Couple initially objected but have now agreed to move elsewhere .
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11f3327abdfc8b79fd1a57545cc8ae627cb522ed
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U.S. investigators are stepping up the pace of a corruption investigation into senior leaders of FIFA, even as the world soccer body is giving itself a clean bill of health, according to U.S. law enforcement officials. The FIFA ethics committee announced Thursday that it was closing its investigation into alleged corruption in the 2018 and 2022 bidding process that awarded the World Cup to Russia and Qatar, respectively. FIFA said its investigation found no corruption and has no reason to reopen the bidding process. Related: FIFA embroiled in World Cup civil war . But the FBI, which is leading the U.S. probe, isn't ready to do the same. Investigators are moving ahead with their probe, which could result in charges against senior FIFA officials, the U.S. law enforcement officials said. FBI agents based in New York are moving ahead with their 3-year-old investigation, which will likely benefit from the findings of a former U.S. prosecutor, Michael Garcia, who was hired by FIFA to do an internal probe. The FBI plans to seek access to Garcia's report, which FIFA hasn't yet released. The FBI declined to offer an official comment. Garcia on Thursday distanced himself from the FIFA ethics announcement, saying: "Today's decision by the Chairman of the Adjudicatory Chamber contains numerous materially incomplete and erroneous representations of the facts and conclusions detailed in the Investigatory Chamber's report. I intend to appeal this decision to the FIFA Appeal Committee." A U.S. law enforcement official said the probe is looking at a variety of alleged corruption issues, including the 2018 and 2022 bidding process. The FBI investigation includes the cooperation of a former top FIFA official who has provided documents and recordings of meetings with colleagues, law enforcement officials said. Related: U.S. lawsuit targets FIFA rules on player concussions . The New York Daily news, which reported on the cooperation of former FIFA official Chuck Blazer, quoted Blazer as saying: "I just can't talk about that." FIFA has long been dogged by allegations of corruption. In 2011, the FIFA banned for life Mohamed bin Hammam, a Qatari member of its top governing body, for ethics violations. The organization says it is planning unspecific improvements in the way it conducts World Cup bids. Photos: Soccer-crazy Qatar ramping up for World Cup .
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FIFA was cleared of corruption allegations by an internal investigation conducted by an American .
But the FBI has intensified its own investigation of international soccer's governing body .
The investigation centers on whether corruption led to the selection of Qatar to host the 2022 World Cup .
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11f37a8f8ee443e9789cc885f2667c431d045825
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President Barack Obama's approval rating among the American public has reached an all-time low. Just 41 percent of the country now approves of the job that Obama is doing, down five percent from a month ago, according to a new Washington Post- ABC News poll. Dissatisfaction with healthcare reform continues to play a large role in Americans' disgruntlement with the President. While Republicans are most unhappy with the President's implementation of his signature law, they are not alone in their displeasure. President Barack Obama, who is currently on a week-long trip to Asia, will face an all-time low approval rating upon return . Support for the healthcare law was . upside down, with only 44 percent saying they supported the changes . Obamacare made to the healthcare system, down from 49 percent a month . ago. Approval of Obama's handling of the . healthcare law was predictably split down party lines, but among . self-identified Independents, more than two-thirds strongly disapprove of the . way the President has handled the implementation of his signature law. Among all respondents, only . 37 percent approved of the way Obama is handling the healthcare law, and nearly twice as many respondents strongly disapproved of the . President's implementation of Obamacare as those who . strongly approved - a mere 24 percent. Worse, just 41 percent of respondents said implementation is going better than expected compared to when it began. Particularly telling of the level of discontent Obama faces over healthcare implementation is the low number of Republicans polled. Republicans only made up only two of every 10 people interviewed. Just 41 percent of the country now approves of the job that Obama is doing, down five percent from a month ago . Implementation . of the healthcare law got off to a notoriously bad start last October. The Obamacare sign up website healthcare.gov repeatedly crashed during . the open enrollment period for the federal health exchanges, making . Obama and his administration, namely Health and Human Services Secretary . Kathleen Sebelius, look foolish. The . last day of Obamacare enrollment, March 31, was plagued with more . problems related to the website's failure to function properly, forcing . the Obama administration to extend sign-up time for Americans who tried . to enroll in healthcare by the government mandated deadline but . couldn't. After . first saying she would remain at the helm of HHS until next fall, . Sebelius announced days later that she would soon leave the . administration. Democrats . had hoped that Sebelius' departure would decrease Americans' annoyance . with Obamacare. Obamacare numbers have only gotten worse, not better, . since Sebelius' announcement, however, as vexation with the poorly . implemented law lingers. This image of Obamacare sign up site HealthCare.gov taken on March 31 is indicative of the problems many Americans trying to sign up for healthcare ran into throughout the winter . At issue for many Americans polled was the perceived cost increases that Obamacare has wreaked on their personal finances. Only eight percent told pollsters they thought their personal health care costs . are going down as a result of Obamacare. Nearly six times as many said . their health care costs were increasing as because of the President's . signature law. Likewise, more than five times as many people said the country's . healthcare costs were going up as a result of Obamacare than those who said they thought national health spending was going down. It's unclear how much of an impact Americans' negative feelings about Obamacare will have on Democratic candidates competing in the nation's mid-term elections in November. Respondents in the poll said they trusted Democrats more to handle nearly every issue, including Obamacare, but pollsters interviewed a significantly higher number of Democrats than Republicans. Of note is that double the percentage . of respondents in the poll thought America was on the wrong track. Of those who felt . America was on the wrong track, they were three times more . likely to blame Democrats in Congress than Republicans. Respondents were split on who they'd personally vote for if the . election were held today, the Democrat or Republican, but they were likely to say Republicans should be in charge in Congress to . serve as a check President Obama than Democrats. 'This poll shows people want Republicans to fight back against the Obama agenda-- from foreign policy to ObamaCare and the economy, Republican National Committee spokesman Raffi Williams told MailOnline in an email. 'Those 2014 Democrats who have overwhelmingly supported the extreme Obama agenda are going to suffer at the election booths for putting donors interests above that of their constituents.'
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President Barack Obama's approval rating is now at 41 percent, according to a new poll .
That's five percent down from where it was just a month ago .
Dissatisfaction with the President's signature healthcare law continues to play a large role in Americans' disgruntlement with the President .
Support for Obamacare is also down five percent from last month .
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11f3e8ec071d6b343e6188e4b6f43d33f8573823
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There have been some weird and wacky kits down the years but two Spanish sides have released three contenders for the most unusual - with designs inspired by tuxedos, octopus tentacles and a pint of beer. Segunda Division B side Cultural Leonesa arguably win the contest with a jersey designed to look like a tuxedo. They will surely be suited and booted for the new season with the design being mainly black but opening up to resemble a white shirt, black buttons and black bow tie. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Cultural Leonosa unviel their bizarre tuxedo shirt . Suited and booted: Spanish Segunda Division B side Cultural Leonesa have unveiled a kit resembling a tuxedo . Looking smart: Leonesa will take to the pitch in the black design complete with bow tie and white shirt . Weird: Spanish Segunda Division side CD Lugo have also released some unusual kits for next season . Lager top: Lugo's home kit will resemble a pint of beer, inspired by their main sponsors Estrella Galicia . Wrap around: Lugo's away kit is all black with a huge octopus tentacle in honour of the Galician delicacy . CD Lugo meanwhile, who play a level higher in the Segunda Division, have unveiled two unusual kits. Their home kit has been inspired by their main sponsors, beer company Estrella Galicia, and resembles a pint of lager with the main colour being amber and the top being white like the froth. But their away kit is plain black and is adorned by a giant octopus tentacle in order to display one of the main cuisines of the region of Galicia in northwest Spain. Changing style: Leonesa's kits (right) have traditionally been fairly normal and non-discript . Eccentric: Lugo's kit designs have traditionally been fairly loud but this year's have gone even further .
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Segunda Division B side Cultural Leonesa release kit resembling tuxedo .
It is mainly black but opens out into a white shirt with a black bow tie .
Segunda Division team CD Lugo have released a new home and away kit .
Their home kit is inspired by title sponsors, beer company Estrella Galicia .
The away kit is all black but with a huge octopus tentacle .
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11f3e9e30728e4c896b1a934267d1d34f3688bef
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Father-of-one Stefan Noyce, 29, passed out in the middle of the road after a night out and was run over, an inquest heard . A council worker downed so many shots of Sambuca and Jagermeister he passed out in the middle of the road and was run over, an inquest heard. Father-of-one Stefan Noyce, 29, was four-and-a-half times the drink-drive limit and in a state of 'extreme drunkenness' when he walked into a carriageway and lay down after a night out. Moments later motorist Chelcie Hunt, 18, struck the drunk pub-goer in her Mazda 121 on an unlit stretch of road in Wareham, Dorset, causing him fatal head injuries. She said she did not see the victim as he was wearing dark clothes and thought her car had hit an animal in the road on the night of June 15 last year . 'I was driving along and then when I got to the dark bit, where there are no lights in the road, I felt like I had gone over something,' she told a hearing at Bournemouth Coroner's Court. 'I just thought I had hit an animal or something.' The keen fisherman who had taken part in a TV series, Ocean Heroes, was described him as being in 'high spirits' by witnesses who saw him drinking shots at the Antelope Inn and Black Bear pub in Wareham. He was found lying on a pavement in Wareham at around 12.15am in an 'intoxicated and unconscious state', but he refused offers for a taxi. Witnesses watched him walk towards the nearby village of Stoborough, where he was staying the night with his grandmother, and lost sight of him as he entered the unlit portion of the road. The fatal collision happened 10 minutes later on the B3075 linking Stoborough to Wareham and Miss was found to have been within the 30mph speed limit. Police investigations showed Mr Noyce, who had a 10-year-old son, Blake, would only have been illuminated by the car headlights for one second before the collision. The keen fisherman who had taken part in a TV series, Ocean Heroes, was described him as being in 'high spirits' by witnesses who saw him drinking in the pub before the incident, pictured on a boat in Norway . He was described as a 'perfect gentleman' by his mother and leaves behind a 10-year-old son . Forensic pathologist Dr Basil Purdue said Mr Noyce's fatal head injuries suggested he was lying on the ground when he was hit and the 328mg of alcohol in his blood would have left him in a state of 'extreme drunkenness'. Richard Middleton, the assistant coroner for Dorset, said Mr Noyce's dark clothes and the unlit road may have been additional factors in his death. He said he was satisfied Miss Hunt had been driving carefully and was not speeding and ruled that Mr Noyce died 'as a result of a very tragic collision'. Mr Noyce's mother Paula Haden, who lives at Bovington, said: 'To me he was perfect. I am so proud of Stefan. I want the world to know what a lovely boy he was. 'He was just such a real gentleman. I was amazed at how many hearts he touched.' Before the accident he had worked for Dorset Waste Partnership and spent hours gardening for neighbours. He was hailed a hero as a teenager when he helped save the life of an elderly woman drowning in the River Frome. He had fished in Norway and worked for Dorset Waste Partnership before the incident in June lat year, pictured during filming for Ocean Heroes . Forensic pathologist Dr Basil Purdue said Mr Noyce's fatal head injuries suggested he was lying on the ground when he was hit, pictured on a boat in Norway . Flowers lie by the side of the B3075 South Causeway near Wareham after the 29-year-old was killed .
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Stefan Noyce, 29, passed out in the road and was run over after night out .
The father-of-one was four-and-a-half times the drink-drive limit .
Chelcie Hunt, 18, did not see him and thought she had hit an animal .
Cause of death was found to be a massive head trauma, inquest heard .
Coroner said dark clothes and unlit road may have been additional factors .
He was a keen fisherman and appeared on TV series Ocean Heroes .
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11f4a59c672f51ee979f316a04fb817ba261c1ab
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By . Sarah Johnson . PUBLISHED: . 15:43 EST, 24 January 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 03:18 EST, 25 January 2013 . Almost a decade has passed since the hit sitcom Friends left our television screens. But the show has never been far from one man’s thoughts. Du Xin has opened a mini replica of the show’s Central Perk café in Beijing, China. Friends: Customers chat at a Beijing cafe modelled after the Central Perk cafe in the hit American sitcom Friends . Tucked away on the sixth floor of an office block, the café features the same orange couch, window and doorway and plays re-runs of Friends. Mr Xin, whose nickname is Gunther after the ‘Friends’ character who runs Central Perk, told National Public Radio: ‘I’m crazy about Friends. For me, it’s like a religion. It’s my life.’ The café serves the same snacks mentioned in the show and the menus are filled with fun facts and details from the series. And, it seems like Mr Xin’s idea has caught on, as a second Central Perk recently opened in Shanghai. His obsession doesn’t stop there, however. Obsessed: Du Xin, whose nickname is Gunther, owns the cafe and also has an apartment modelled on the character Joey's . Mr Xin has built a replica of the apartment that the character Joey lived in and it even has an identical foosball table, DVDs of the TV show Baywatch and an oversized cabinet similar to the one Joey made. The show is popular in China because it serves as a tool for learning English and is an introduction to American culture. People dream about the laid-back, friendship-filled lifestyle it portrays which is a far cry from the stressful and competitive world that young Chinese people inhabit. Mr Xin said: ‘That’s why we like Friends. We’re looking for this kind of life.’ He added: ‘I learned a lot from Friends: how to treat friends, girlfriends, my wife, how to be generous, how to be gentle.’ The real thing: The characters of Friends (pictured) used to spend a lot of time in the fictional Central Perk cafe in New York . Friends fans come from all over China to visit Central Perk. Qiu Yu, who lives in Beijing, took a friend visiting from Taiyuan, more than 300 miles away. For Ms Yu, the main attraction of the show is that six friends live on their own, away from the constraints of their families. She said: ‘I think their lives are very free, very happy. They can do whatever they like. For Chinese people the influence of our families is quite big. So we yearn for that lifestyle.’
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Has same orange couch, window and doorway and plays Friends re-runs .
Idea has caught on and a second Central Perk recently opened in Shanghai .
Owner Du Xin has also built a replica of character Joey's apartment .
Show has many Chinese fans who yearn for a laid-back, independent life .
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11f4ff7e1df5ff04244db9a6c98dfadf756cdedb
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Gwyn Roberts, 45, drank one-and-a-half litres of cider and two cans of Special Brew after a visit to his sick mother in Gwynedd ended in a row . A family doctor and father-of-three was jailed today for seriously injuring two people while over the drink-drive limit. Gwyn Haydn Roberts, 45, from Abergavenny, drank one-and-a-half litres of cider and two cans of Special Brew after a visit to his sick mother in Gwynedd ended in a row. Mold Crown Court heard he drove on the wrong side of the road and went around bends on a grass verge on the A487. The doctor cried in the dock as he admitted causing serious injuries by dangerous driving. He was banned from driving for four years. The court heard how Roberts paid a visit to his sick mother in Criccieth on June 17, which ended in a row. Roberts - who was previously disqualified from driving for 27 months in 2010 for drink driving – drove on the wrong side of the road as he motored along the A487. The journey home was a 120-mile trip that would have taken an able driver around three hours. The crash happened between Penrhyndeudraeth and Maentwrog in Gwynedd when Roberts crossed a double white line and hit a car driven by Indian restaurant workers Babel Mia and passenger Raj Mia. Both cars were written off in the collision and Babel Mia suffered a broken right foot, deep cuts to the head and knees. He was in hospital two days. His colleague suffered broken ribs, cuts and bruises. Roberts, a father of three, suffered a fractured sternum. Blood tests taken from Roberts four hours later showed he had 180 miligrammes of alcohol in his blood compared to the legal limit of 80. The crash happened between Penrhyndeudraeth and Maentwrog in Gwynedd (pictured) Father-of-three Roberts - who was previously disqualified from driving for 27 months in 2010 for drink driving – drove on the wrong side of the road as he motored along the A487 between in Gwynedd, north-west Wales . Anna Pope, defending, said Roberts was receiving treatment for his alcohol addicition and Wynford Ellis Owen had written the report on his treatment. He had gone to Criccieth to visit his ageing mother who was seriously ill with bowel cancer. But there were emotional and mental issues from his childhood which came to the surface and they triggered his decision to drive home. Miss Pope said: 'He takes responsibility for what he did and made frank admissions. 'It is clear from the references there is another side to this man. He is an extremely successful GP valued by his patients. 'He is a loving husband and father to three children. He is also an extremely troubled man throughout his adult life,' she said. The issues from his childhood had driven him to drink and prescription drugs, although there was no suggestion that had affected his work. Miss Pope said his first drink drive offence happened when he had driven to the Black Mountains to commit suicide but could not go through with it. He was arrested as he drove back and was found to be over the limit. He had been detained for a short while under the Mental Health Act and had referred himself for residential rehabilitation. He was attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings and Miss Pope said he should be spared jail to allow his rehabilitation to continue. The journey the doctor wanted to take was a 120-mile trip that would have taken around three hours . But Judge Rhys Rowlands said the decision to try and drive 130 miles plus along 'tortuous roads' was 'extraordinarily dangerous'. He pointed out that he must have known full-well what he was doing was illegal. 'You were placing other road users at risk and sadly that is what happened. You were driving at speed, on the wrong side of the road and around bends, prompting one motorist to film it and another motorist described your overtaking as the most dangerous she had seen. You could easily have killed those in the other car. 'I have read letters from professional colleagues and patients you have assisted over the years. Professionally you are highly thought of and you have taken steps to try and address your drinking. You are the sole provider for a young family and the effect has been profound on them.' He sentenced Roberts to 27 months in jail and disqualified him from driving for four years. The General Medical Council will consider the future of Dr Gwyn Haydn Roberts in January, but Mold Crown Court was told he was unlikely to practise medicine again.
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Gwyn Roberts, 45, sentenced to 27 months in jail at Mold Crown Court .
Father-of-three seriously injured two people while over drink-drive limit .
Doctor also banned from driving for four years following crash in June .
Crash happened in Gwynedd, north-west Wales, after row with sick mother .
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11f58cd3eb651baeff990b9b872fa568f34ead63
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Jake Newsome - who posted disgusting messages on Facebook after the death of Ann Maguire - has been jailed for six weeks . A Facebook troll who posted sickening messages about the classroom killing of teacher Ann Maguire has been jailed for six weeks. Jake Newsome, 21, wrote that a 15-year-old boy accused of murdering the school teacher Maguire should have 'p***** on her too'. He took to the social networking site three days after Mrs Maguire died was stabbed at Corpus Christi college in Leeds, West Yorkshire, on April 28. He later admitted posting the messages to police, claiming he empathised with the 15-year-old charged with her murder because he identified with him. Prosecutor Sandra White told Leeds Magistrates Court today: 'This message was posted to the Facebook social network on May 1 from Mr Newsome's phone. 'He wrote: "Personally, I'm glad that teacher got stabbed up. Feel sorry for the kid, he should've p***** on her too". 'Four minutes later a comment was posted saying,"That's not very nice", to which the defendant replied, "I think it is".' Angry web users later began posting comments in response and Newsome was arrested. He told police he 'didn't think [the messages] were offensive', the court heard. Ann Glen, for Newsome, said her client had no previous convictions and he understood he would 'reap the consequences, realising that he had offended members of the public'. At a previous hearing she told the court: 'He felt that there were some similarities as to what people were saying about the young man and the background that this defendant has.' Pupils and staff were devastated when Mrs Maguire was killed at Corpus Christi College, Leeds, in April . After Newsome admitted sending an offensive message at a previous hearing he was sentenced by District Judge David Kitson today. The judge said: 'You sent an offensive communication by an electronic device that followed the tragic death of Mrs Maguire who was killed some days previously. 'You're entitled to express reasonable views, as are all of us. What none of us are entitled to do is abuse that freedom. Friends of much-loved Mrs Maguire were left stunned by the sickening messages Newsome left on Facebook . 'What I find particularly offensive - that must have caused distress to all those who knew Mrs Maguire - were the derogatory remarks made saying that you were glad she had been killed and that he should have, and I quote, "p***** on her too". 'I can think of little more that can be upsetting or offensive.' Judge Kitson added: 'You clearly came from a troubled background. But this is so serious that nothing more than custodial sentence can suffice.' Newsome, wearing a dark hoodie and blue jeans, looked shocked at the decision and some of his friends sobbed in the public gallery as he was led away. Mrs Maguire, 61, died after she was attacked as she taught a Spanish lesson. The 15-year-old boy has appeared in court accused of murdering Mrs Maguire. He is remanded in custody and is due to go on trial later this year. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.
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The killing of teacher Mrs Maguire at her school shocked Britain in April .
But Jake Newsome went online to post sick comments about her death .
The 21-year-old said he was 'glad' much-loved teacher got 'stabbed up'
He even wrote that her killer should have 'p***** on her too'
He was jailed for six weeks at Leeds Magistrates Court today .
Judge said he found Newsome's posts 'particularly offensive'
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By . Emily Miller . PUBLISHED: . 06:52 EST, 9 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 06:55 EST, 9 May 2013 . Two elderly women died in Zimbabwe after their families accused them of being witches and encouraged them to drink a mystery liquid to cleanse their souls, it was reported today. Jersey Mutero, 83, and Erita Bhebhe, 73, collapsed moments after swallowing the poisonous drink during a ceremony near their homes. The New Zimbabwe website reported that a local healer had gone on the run following the deaths last Saturday in a rural village in the country's Midlands province. The women collapsed within moments of drinking the poison in a rural village in Zimbabwe's Midlands province (file photo) The publication reported that the victims' families had visited the self-styled pastor for help after a young girl fell sick. Police believe relatives of the elderly pair feared the women had been possessed by demons and were responsible for the illness. Local police spokesman Emmanuel Mahoko said traditional healer Maxwell Pira summoned both pensioners to a gathering before passing round a mystery liquid in a cup. The officer said: 'Pira gathered all family members and started praying for them. 'He also said prayers for a liquid which he called "holy water". 'He instructed all the family members to drink the water which was passed around in a cup, but warned that those responsible for the sickness of the young girl should not drink the concoction as they would die.' Inspector Mahoko added: 'The two elderly women drank the liquid but collapsed almost immediately. 'They were put on a scotch cart but died on the way to hospital.' Officials confirmed the two women's bodies were taken for post-mortem examinations. Detectives have launched an investigation to confirm the cause of death and to establish the contents of the liquid. New Zimbabwe reported that Pira had vanished after the tragedy and was believed to be on the run. Inspector Mahoko told the publication the suspect faced two charges of murder. Belief in witchcraft remains prevalent in many parts of Africa, where people often balance organised religion with traditional belief systems.
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Jersey Mutero, 83, and Erita Bhebhe, 73, collapsed within seconds .
A local healer has gone on the run from their rural village in Zimbabwe .
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By . Sara Malm . PUBLISHED: . 15:18 EST, 12 March 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 17:02 EST, 12 March 2014 . Most people with a criminal mind-set would do their utmost to break out of a police station, however, not all see it that way. Michael Naughton, 24, was caught doing quite the opposite when he was arrested for allegedly attempting to break in to a police station. Mr Naughton was seen ‘violently pulling’ a locked door at a downtown Boston Police station at 2.30 in the morning. Breaking into the law: Michael Naughton, 24, was arrested for allegedly attempting to break in to a police station in downtown Boston . Naughton, from Somerville, Boston, was discovered as he made his way through the garage door. He then entered a secured area inside the District A-1 station on Tuesday morning and confronted several police officers. According to officers, Naughton became ‘belligerent and yelled at the officers to get out of his house,’ CBS Boston reported. Despite being informed several times that he was inside a police station, Mr Naughton kept shouting his address and argued with the officers. Naughton entered District A-1 Boston police station through a garage door and yelled at officers to 'get out of his house' Police officers were forced to handcuff him after a short struggle after which he was placed in custody. He was arrested and eventually charged with breaking and entering in the nighttime and resisting arrest. A court appearance date has yet to be announced. The act is up there with Zachary Tentoni, 26, of Connecticut who was arrested in July last year in connection with a wallet snatching after he dropped his ID as he was fleeing from the crime scene. He is narrowly beaten by Michael Marquez, 34, who, while waiting to be questioned on suspicion of shoplifting, reached up and pinched a clock off the wall at a police station in Panama City, Florida.
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Michael Naughton, 24, was caught trying to break into a police station .
He entered through a garage and yelled at officers to 'get out of his house'
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(CNN) -- When Rob Portman signed on to the Mitt Romney campaign in January 2012, he was seen as a key supporter -- a rising star in the Republican Party, a swing state campaigner and a staunch conservative who could protect Romney on the right. For the next 11 months, Portman zipped around the country, pitching the candidate he said was "exactly what our nation needs." The Ohio senator's hard-nosed approach landed him on Romney's vice presidential short list. He was even vetted for the job. The Romney campaign was undoubtedly the height of Portman's political career. After he failed to deliver his state and Romney lost the election, Portman stepped out of the limelight and remained relatively quiet on Capitol Hill as President Barack Obama settled in for a second term. Until Friday. That's when Portman, a former White House budget director, was thrust into the divisive national debate when he publicly acknowledged that he had changed his mind on same-sex marriage. "I'm announcing today a change of heart on an issue that a lot of people feel strongly about that has to do with gay couples' opportunity to marry," Portman told CNN Chief Congressional Correspondent Dana Bash two years after learning his son, Will, was gay. Will Portman 'especially proud' of father . "I've come to the conclusion that for me, personally, I think this is something that we should allow people to do, to get married, and to have the joy and stability of marriage that I've had for over 26 years. That I want all of my children to have, including our son, who is gay," Portman said. Portman is an unexpected advocate for same-sex marriage -- and he admitted as much in the interview. "What happened to me is really personal," Portman said. "I mean, I hadn't thought a lot about this issue. Again, my focus has been on other issues over my public policy career." Even though he is seen as a social conservative, someone whose social policy is deeply rooted in his Christian faith, Portman is noticeably out of his comfort zone in this discussion. It is budget and tax issues, not marriage and sexuality, that he is better known for. Portman was first elected to the Senate in 2010 after receiving little challenge from Democrat Lee Fisher for a seat vacated by Republican George Voinovich. While there, he has pushed fiscal issues, including a balanced budget amendment. This focus tracks with Portman's past. His first foray into elected office was when he won a House seat in 1993, representing Ohio's 2nd Congressional District. Portman stirs mixed reaction with same-sex marriage reversal . In that role, he began to hone his expertise on budget and fiscal issues. During his 12 years in the House, Portman sat on the Ways and Means and Budget committees -- two powerful budget and tax-writing panels -- and co-chaired the National Commission on Restructuring the Internal Revenue Service. His expertise was noticed by the George W. Bush White House. Bush made Portman the U.S. trade representative in 2005 and he became the Republican president's budget director the next year. The job required Portman to dive into the esoteric world of federal spending. On his website, Portman describes himself as "a deficit hawk" that proposed "a balanced budget," fought "irresponsible earmarks" and advocated for more transparency. Not everyone agrees with that assessment, however. Portman was only at the budget office for a year where he worked with the White House on its fiscal 2008 budget -- a document that led to a deficit of $459 billion. When Portman was rumored as a possible vice presidential candidate for Romney, nearly all Democratic operatives attacked him for his time as Bush's top budget deputy. Many said he portrayed himself as a deficit hawk, but didn't live up to those ideals when he worked for the White House. Greg Schultz, the Ohio state director for Obama's 2012 campaign, stressed these critiques in a blog post for the campaign. "As one of the architects of the top-down Bush budget, Portman practically invented the policies that punished middle-class families while exploding the deficit, and crashing our economy," Schultz wrote. Portman, in the middle of the presidential campaign, even tried to distance himself from the Bush administration. "I was frustrated when I was there about some spending issues — specifically, as you know, I wanted to offer a balanced budget over five years, and a lot of people didn't," Portman said in an interview with the Hill Magazine. "I prevailed. The president sent his budget — not my budget, his budget — a five-year balanced budget. But it was a fight, internally."
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Republican Rob Portman reverses course, now supports same-sex marriage .
Portman said he had "change of heart" when he learned his son was gay .
Senator has long been respected in Washington as budget, tax expert .
Campaigned hard for Mitt Romney, but couldn't deliver Ohio in 2012 for GOP .
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(CNN) -- A lawsuit filed by Academy Award winning screenwriter and celebrated director Quentin Tarantino against the Gawker website for linking to a script for a future movie project was dismissed Tuesday by a federal judge. In January, Gawker posted links to the script for "The Hateful Eight," an unproduced Western. Tarantino failed to prove that was an act of direct copyright infringement, said Judge John F. Walter of the Central District of California. The judge said he would allow Tarantino's attorney to amend arguments and refile the complaint by May 1. Although Gawker did not post the script to its own site, Tarantino's attorney charged the script would not have been widely accessible if Gawker had not linked to it. Gawker turned down repeated requests to remove links to download the script, Tarantino's complaint charged. Tarantino told the gossip site Deadline that he had given the script to only six people, including actors Michael Madsen, best known as the killer in "Reservoir Dogs," as well as Bruce Dern and Tim Roth. "Reservoir Dogs" was Roth's breakthrough film. Somehow, the script leaked. It was posted through a site that lets users anonymously upload and download files. CNN's attempts to reach Tarantino for comment on Tuesday were unsuccessful. Gawker didn't mention the decision on its website. According to CNN affiliate KTLA, Tarantino held a three-hour reading of the script over the weekend and told audience members he was working on changes to it. Although Tarantino had spoken of shelving the project when the links to the script were posted, he said making the film is still possible.
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Links to an unproduced movie script were posted in January .
The famed director and writer filed suit against one of the more popular websites that posted link .
Judge rules that Tarantino didn't show there was a copyright infringement .
Tarantino reportedly is revising the script and might move ahead with making the film .
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11fc52f4f6f29ed7b5abf2983297ec70de646c61
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(CareerBuilder.com) -- Some people view an MBA degree the same way that Charlie thought about his Golden Ticket in "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory": They believe a piece of paper can magically transport you to a place you only imagined. But can this addition to your résumé really be your dream ticket? Yes. No. Maybe. There are no simple answers, but here are ways that an MBA might help you. MBA could get you hired in a tough economy . Let's face it: If you had your pick between two candidates -- one with a BBA and one with an MBA -- who were both qualified for a job, wouldn't you take the one with the higher degree? Because of the recession's affect on employment, many companies have a wealth of talent to pick from at the moment and some can afford to be choosy in their hiring. Candidates need to score every point possible, and a graduate degree may give that extra edge. Read students trying to get a job in the tough economy . "A category of jobs that begins to show up more in a recession is one that says MBA desired or preferred versus MBA required," says Dennis Grindle, director of the SMU Cox School of Business MBA Career Management Center in Dallas, Tex. "These jobs tend to pay somewhere in between a BBA and an MBA. This allows an MBA to get into what they want to do by taking a step back to hopefully go forward later when economic times get better." MBA may get you where you want to go faster . "Having an MBA -- as opposed to just a bachelor's degree in business -- is sort of like traveling someplace by plane instead of taking the train. With either business degree, you may eventually wind up at your final 'destination' -- but the MBA will get you there faster," says Elizabeth Freedman, author of "The MBA Student's Job-Seeking Bible" and "Work 101: Learning the Ropes of the Workplace Without Hanging Yourself." Read top job hot spots for the next decade . Some of the opportunities an MBA degree may jump-start include: . • Managing larger teams • Running meetings • Greater interaction with clients • More decision-making power • Representing the company at events • "Choicer" projects • Responsibility for your own set of clients/projects . MBA is sometimes expected . "In certain organizations (top-tier consulting firms, for instance), having an MBA or an advanced degree is practically a requirement for certain positions," Freedman notes. "It's hard to move up without that credential, no matter how talented." In this situation, the degree basically becomes a minimum qualification -- not your ace in the hole. To land the position, you are then expected to bring what Grindle calls "an A+ game" to the table, meaning that you have everything the employer is looking for and then some. Grindle notes that whether a function requires an MBA or not may vary by company size, industry, state of the economy, and even geographical location. Still, there are fields that commonly utilize MBAs, including: . • Consumer Brand Marketing • Corporation Finance • Venture Capital • Investment Banking • Commercial Banking • Production/Operations Management • New Product Development • Management Consulting • Private Equity • Strategic Planning/Business Development . MBA can round out an education . Some workers hold undergraduate degrees in fields other than business. By seeking an MBA, these employees can fill in possible gaps in their education as well as show their commitment to their field. Likewise, a person who already holds an undergraduate business degree but perhaps has been working in a different area can update his skills by seeking a graduate degree. The decision whether or not to pursue an MBA is a tough one. It involves serious thought about money, time and career goals. But for those who decide that getting an MBA is the path they wish to take, the degree might open up a whole new world of possibilities. © CareerBuilder.com 2011. All rights reserved. The information contained in this article may not be published, broadcast or otherwise distributed without the prior written authority.
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In a tough economy, an MBA can open doors for a new job.
An MBA can get you to a job faster than just having a bachelor's degree.
Jobs in investment banking or corporate finance may expect an MBA.
An MBA can fill in gaps in one's education.
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11fc6fa0dac4d11132f33069a4a8c556af8837bc
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Psychedelic drugs such as LSD and magic mushrooms do not cause mental health problems in users, a new study has claimed. Researchers in Norway have said they in fact found 'significant associations' between the drugs and fewer psychological problems. The team, from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology's (NTNU) Department of Neuroscience, studied more than 130,000 random people, including 22,000 who had used the drugs at least once, included in a health survey in the US. A new study claims the use of psychedelic drugs including LSD (pictured) and magic mushrooms does not cause mental health problems . Clinical psychologist Pål-Ørjan Johansen, who carried out the study with researcher Teri Krebs, said: 'After adjusting for other risk factors, lifetime use of LSD, psilocybin, mescaline or peyote, or past year use of LSD was not associated with a higher rate of mental health problems or receiving mental health treatment.' The team studied the 2001-2004 National Survey on Drug Use and Health which asked people about mental health conditions including general psychological distress, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and psychosis. Krebs and Johansen used the data to investigate connections between the use of psychedelic drugs and the mental health issues. The researchers said rather than finding a connection between their use and an increase in problems, they discovered long-term use of drugs such as psilocybin or mescaline was linked to 'lower rates of serious psychological distress'. Meanwhile, people who had used LSD in the last 12 months were also associated with lower rates of distress, while those who had used the drug long-term had a lower rate of treatment for mental health issues. The researchers have said it is not possible to determine the reason behind their discoveries, because of the nature of the study, and warned the drugs could be harmful to some. The researchers used the 2001-2004 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, which asked people about a range of mental health conditions, for the study . They wrote: 'We cannot exclude the possibility that use of psychedelics might have a negative effect on mental health for some individuals or groups, perhaps counterbalanced at a population level by a positive effect on mental health in others.' The researchers pointed out that recent trials 'have also failed to find any evidence of any lasting harmful effects of psychedelics'. Krebs said: 'Everything has some potential for negative effects, but psychedelic use is overall considered to pose a very low risk to the individual and to society.' The results are published in the journal PLOS One.
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Researchers in Norway studied data of more than 130,000 people .
They found 'no link' between the drugs and mental health problems .
Long-term use of some drugs was linked to fewer psychological problems .
But researchers warned their work did not mean drugs were not harmful .
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11fd6d34d787a8a69dcd7780a739773cfea1eeca
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(CNN) -- Cristiano Ronaldo and Gonzalo Higuain each scored twice as Real Madrid beat city rivals Getafe 4-2 on Thursday to move back above Barcelona at the top of the Spanish Primera Liga table. Real Madrid's 10th successive league victory ensured Manuel Pellegrini's side move above Barcelona on goal difference, just 24 hours after the defending champions had gone top with a 2-0 win over Osasuna. Four goals in the opening 37 minutes set the visitors on their way, with Ronaldo opening the scoring in the 13th minute with a superb free-kick. Higuain made it 2-0 just seven minutes later after converting Rafael van der Vaart's pass and he added a third within three minutes after being put through by fellow-Argentine Fernando Gago. That goal was Higuain's 22nd of the season, equalling his tally for the whole of last season. And Ronaldo made it 4-0 for a rampant Real side in the 37th minute -- cutting inside from the right before thundering home a superb shot into the top corner. But Getafe refused to lie down and pulled a goal back almost immediately when former Madrid player Dani Parejo dispossessed goalkeeper Iker Casillas before firing into an empty net. And the home side added a second consolation goal with 10 minutes remaining when Pedro Leon slotted home after Javi Casquero's shot had deflected off Raul Albiol. Meanwhile, Juventus continue to struggle in Italy's Serie A and they slumped to another defeat on Thursday, 3-1 at Napoli -- who moved up to sixth place in the table, one ahead of Juve. The evening started well for Alberto Zaccheroni's side and they took an early lead when defender Giorgio Chiellini nodded home from close range. The home side missed a penalty early in the second half before levelling when Fabio Quagliarella's superb cross from the left was headed home by Marek Hamsik, who had been the guilty party from the spot. Hamsik then set up Quagliarella to put Napoli ahead with 18 minutes remaining and the points were sealed with two minutes left when Ezequiel Lavezzi slotted home.
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Cristiano Ronaldo and Gonzalo Giguain both score twice for Real Madrid .
The pair help Real defeat city rivals Getafe 4-2 in Spain's Primera Liga .
Madrid move above Barcelona to top the league table on goal difference .
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11fddb80352d7745d6107d27145b105d47315ab5
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By . James Nye and Beth Stebner . PUBLISHED: . 12:35 EST, 18 December 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 00:25 EST, 19 December 2012 . Scrambling to keep pace with the public's mood in the aftermath of the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre, Hollywood executives cancelled the premiere of a third major film release in the wake of Friday's gun atrocity. Quentin Tarantino's ultra-violent spaghetti western Django Unchained has had its premiere, which was due to take place on Tuesday, replaced with a private screening for cast and crew only. This follows the cancellation of Tom Cruises action movie, Jack Reacher and the editing of a trailer for that film. 'Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut, and in this time of national mourning we have decided to forgo our scheduled event,' said producers the Weinstein Company. Scroll down for video . Big names: But the cast of Django Unchained will not be appearing in Hollywood on Monday due to the Newtown tragedy . The cancellation of the highly anticipated Tarantino movie which stars Jamie Foxx and Leonardo DiCaprio follows the editing of a scene in which a sniper fires a semi-automatic gun from the latest Tom Cruise action film. The third film to have its premiere canceled is Parental Guidance starring Billy Crystal and Bette Midler, but the film is not thought to be as controversial as Django Unchained or Jack Reacher - which both contain scenes of graphic violence, death, blood and shootings. Django Unchained was scheduled for a Tuesday evening premiere at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, with stars Samuel L. Jackson, Jamie Foxx, Kerry Washington due to walk down the red carpet. However, before the decision was taken out of their hands, Tarantino and Foxx offered varrying opinions on Hollywood's responsibility towards violence expressed in film. Insensitive: It was felt having a premiere of the violent western Django Unchained would not be the right thing to do . Star Jamie Foxx said that the entertainment industry needs to begin to bear some responsibility for violent content and graphic movies. 'We cannot turn our back and say that violence in films or anything that we do doesn't have a sort of influence,' said Foxx. 'It does.' However, Quentin Tarantino, whose career is littered with stylized and violent films such as 'Kill Bill' said that the issue was beginning to tire him. 'I just think you know there's violence in the world, tragedies happen, blame the playmakers,' said Tarantino said at a press junket on Saturday. 'It's a western. Give me a break.' Samuel L. Jackson who also appears in Django Unchained told the LA Times: 'I don't think it's about more gun control. I grew up in the south with guns everywhere and we never shot anyone. This is about people who aren't taught the value of life.' 'I don't think movies or video games have anything to do with it.' Scenes cut: Tom Cruise (left) and British actress Rosemund Pike pose upon their arrival to the premiere of the film Jack Reacher in Madrid, Spain. Reports suggest the film has been re-cut after the Sandy Hook massacre . A total of 28 people died in the Newtown shooting when alleged gunman Adam Lanza opened fire in the school before taking his own life. Of those who lost their lives, 20 were children between the ages of five and 10. Following the shooting, the decision was also made to postpone the premiere of Tom Cruise's latest movie Jack Reacher, which had been scheduled to take place on Saturday night in Pittsburgh. A statement from Paramount Pictures read: 'Due to the terrible tragedy in Newtown Connecticut, and out of honor and respect for the families of the victims whose lives were senselessly taken, we are postponing the Pittsburgh premiere of Jack Reacher. 'Our hearts go out to all those who lost loved ones.' Facing off: Leonardo's character is the sworn enemy of Jamie Foxx's in the forthcoming film . Celebrities throughout the world also took to Twitter to express their sadness over the tragedy, with many of them taking the tweet the National Rifle Association, the US group advocating gun use in America, directly. Susan Sarandon wrote: 'How much more suffering & loss will it take before we better regulate the sale of arms in our country? Let @NRA know how you feel.' And Ben Stiller added: 'Shocked and saddened by what happened today in Connecticut. We have to stop the access to guns in our country.' Mother-of-two Kourtney Kardashain wrote on her Twitter page: 'If this tragedy doesn't change something in this country regarding guns...I just want to scream and cry. Deeply saddened. Praying.' Meanwhile other big films set for release in the coming weeks, which includes Les Miserables, This is 40 and The Guilt Trip, held their premieres last week. The next big studio release likely to have a likely to have a glamour premiere is Gangster Squad, the Warner Bros. mob drama co-starring Sean Penn, Josh Brolin and Ryan Gosling, which is released on January 11. That film already had its release date pushed after the July shooting during a screening of The Dark Knight Rises in Colorado, because the studio needed time to excise a scene from the movie in which mobsters fire guns at people seated in a cinema. A violent episode of hit Syfy show Haven was pulled on Friday night in the wake of the tragic Sandy Hook school shooting which left 28 people dead. Then potentially sensitive episodes of Family Guy, American Dad and The Cleveland Show scheduled for broadcast by Fox on Sunday were also cancelled. And in the music world, Ke$ha's latest single 'Die Young' has been removed form radio stations across the country in the wake of the Sandy Hook tragedy. Ke$ha shockingly said that she never wanted to sing her controversial song in the first place, though she is credited as being one of its writers, TMZ first reported. The ‘Tik Tok’ singer did not elaborate as to why she believed she was ‘forced’ to sing the song in the first place. The singer took to Twitter on Tuesday to write: ‘I’m so so so sorry for anyone who has been effected (sic) by this tragedy. And I understand why my song is no inappropriate. Words cannot express.’ According to TMZ, 'Die Young' had reached 167 million listeners before Friday's shooting but had lost 19 million by Monday.
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Tinseltown has rushed to cancel the premiere's and edit a slew of new releases in the wake of the Sandy Hook attack in which 20 children lost their lives .
In the music world - it has been reported that Ke$ha's new single 'Die Young' has been withdrawn from the radio .
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11fe957fce9ee303e0d600d9ee3a170de2cd158f
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Three years since it was discovered during excavations on an ancient cemetery, a rare bronze Roman cockerel has been given a permanent home. The 2nd century figurine is believed to be one of only nine ever found in the Roman Empire, and is part of a new exhibition at the Corinium Museum in the Cirencester. Other finds on display include a hoard of almost 1,500 Roman coins, and the perfectly preserved vase it was found in. This bronze and enamel cockerel was found in a child's grave in Roman Cirencester in 2011 - and has been painstakingly restored. It is now on display at the Corinium Museum . Archaeologists made the discoveries three years ago while excavating a western cemetery at the former Bridges Garage site on Tetbury Road in Cirencester - or Corinium as it was known when it was the second largest town in Roman Britain. The bronze and enamel cockerel was said to have been placed in the grave of the two-year-old Roman . girl by her parents, and experts believe it was used to ask the Gods to protect her. They also . believe the expensive gift was placed in the grave to ease their daughter's transition into the 'next world'. The child was buried wearing hobnailed . shoes and was accompanied by a pottery feeding vessel, and the remarkable . enamelled bronze figurine of a cockerel. The cockerel is 5-inches tall (12.5cm) and the breast, wings, eyes and ‘comb’ are inlaid with enamel, which now appears blue and green. There is a separately moulded tail plate, also enamelled, with ‘openwork’ decoration. The beak is shown open, in the act of crowing. It is believed that the Romans gave religious significance to the cockerel which was known to be connected with Mercury. Experts . claim it was Mercury, a messenger to the gods, that was also . responsible for conducting newly-deceased souls to the afterlife. Statues of this god, including one in the Corinium Museum, commonly show a cockerel at the base. The association probably stems from Mercury’s role as the messenger to the gods and that of the cockerel as ‘announcer’ of the new dawn. Mercury was also the ‘herdsman for the dead’, guiding newly deceased souls on their passage to the afterlife. It is therefore possible that the cockerel was an offering by a devotee of Mercury and expresses a parent’s particular concern to ensure safe transit of a loved one into the after world. 'It is the most significant Roman cemetery investigation in the town since the early 1970s,' said a spokesman for the town’s Corinium Museum. 'The cockerel found underneath the former Bridge’s Garage site - now St James’s Place - is one of only nine known cockerel figurines from the Roman world, and is the only example with its tail intact. 'Displayed with the cockerel are an exceptional example of a Roman flagon and a selection of jewellery which include beads and bracelets found in a richly furnished child’s grave. 'These are high status objects, which give a fascinating insight into the people of Corinium. Neil Holbrook, Chief Executive of Cotswold Archaeology added: 'The . cockerel is the most spectacular find from more than 60 Roman burials . excavated at this site. 'It was excavated from the grave of young child . and was placed close to its head. Interestingly a very similar item was . found in Cologne in Germany and it looks like they both could have come . from the same workshop based in Britain.' The Tetbury Hoard, also on display at the museum, contain 1,437 silver and copper-alloy 3rd century Roman coins. 'The hoard is the museum’s first Roman Coin Hoard and comes from a fascinating period of political upheaval across the Roman Empire,' continued the museum's spokesman. 'It was a time of rapid succession of rulers and usurpers. The coins themselves tell this story. 'Depictions and inscriptions represent 12 emperors from just a 16 year period.' The child was buried wearing hobnailed . shoes and was accompanied by a pottery feeding vessel and the remarkable . enamelled bronze figurine of a cockerel. The cockerel is 5-inches tall (12.5cm) and the breast, wings, eyes and ‘comb’ are inlaid with enamel, which now appears blue and green. There is a separately moulded tail plate, also enamelled, with ‘openwork’ decoration. The beak is shown open, in the act of crowing. The bronze and enamel cockerel (pictured) was said to have been placed in the grave of the two-year-old Roman girl by her parents, and experts believe it was used to ask the Gods to protect her. They also believe the expensive gift was placed in the grave to ease their daughter's transition into the 'next world' Archaeologists made the discoveries three years ago while excavating a western cemetery at the former Bridges Garage site on Tetbury Road in Cirencester. The finds are now on display at the Corinium Museum (pictured) in the town . The Tetbury Hoard, a selection of which is also on display at the museum (pictured), contains 1,437 silver and copper-alloy 3rd century Roman coins. The perfectly preserved vase the hoard was found in is also on display . It is believed that the Romans gave religious significance to the cockerel which was known to be connected with Mercury. Experts claim it was Mercury, a messenger to the gods, that was also responsible for conducting newly-deceased souls to the afterlife. The cockerel (pictured) is 5-inches tall (12.5cm) and the breast, wings, and eyes are inlaid with enamel . The conservation work took four months to be painstakingly carried out by experts. Archaeologist Neil Holbrook, from Cotswold Archaeology, said the work had 'exceeded expectations', particularly for highlighting its fine enamel detail. 'It reinforces what a fantastic article this is and how highly prized and expensive it must have been,' he said. 'This must have cost, in current money, thousands of pounds to buy and countless hours to make, and so to actually put this into the grave of a two or three-year-old child is not something that you would do lightly. 'It really shows that this was a very wealthy, important family, and signifies the love that the parents had for the dead child.' A burial site was unearthed at the . site including more than 40 burials and four cremations; something . experts said was the largest archaeological find in the town since the . 1970s. This . particular figurine is one of only four ever found in Britain, with a . total of eight known from the whole of the Roman Empire. Mr Holbrook added: 'Without a doubt this is the best Roman cockerel ever found in Britain. 'This is the best find that I have seen come out of Cirencester in 30 to 40 years and is of national significance.' The . object is believed to have been made in northern Britain, with evidence . pointing to a workshop in Castleford, West Yorkshire, which made enamel . artefacts. Talks are under way to find a permanent display site for the cockerel, possibly at the Corinium Museum in Cirencester. Only nine similar cockerel figurines are known from the Roman world, including four from Britain. The similarities in construction and decoration suggest that they were made at roughly the same time and could have come from the same workshop. Our example is the only one from Britain to have come from a grave and the only one from any location to have survived with a tail. The two which are closest in form are from Cologne in Germany and Buchten in the Netherlands. In these examples the enamelling survives in the original colours of yellow, blue and red and it is probable that the Cirencester example was originally just as brightly coloured. Britain produced some of the finest enamelled objects in the Roman Empire and these were traded as far afield as Germany, France, Spain and Italy. The four enamelled cockerels from the continent all come from Germany and the Low Countries.
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Enamelled bird was was found in a child's grave in Cirencester in 2011 .
It is believed to be one of only nine known in the Roman Empire .
The 5-inch (12.5cm) bronze figure was found in an ancient cemetery .
It is said to have been placed in the child's grave as a message to the gods .
Tetbury Hoard containing 1,437 Roman coins is also on display at the Corinium Museum .
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Celtic hope to have Stromsgodset coach Ronny Deila in place as their new manager by the end of the week. The 38-year-old Norwegian was appointed coach of the Tippeligaen side in 2008 and transformed them from mid-table also rans into last league champions. Front runner: Ronny Deila is expected to be named manager of Celtic by the end of the week . Stripping off: Deila celebrated a win for Stromsgodset against Viking by throwing his clothes into the crowd . And . Parkhead sources have confirmed that the coach described as Norway’s . answer to Jorgen Klopp is now the frontrunner to succeed Neil Lennon if . compensation can be agreed with Stromdsgodset. Deila delivered his current employers to their first Norwegian title in 43 years and won the Norwegian Cup in 2010. Working . under technical director Jostein Flo the former defender has emerged . left-field candidate but has delivered success utilising the Celtic . transfer model of fielding young, developing players and selling them on . for high fees. Big shoes to fill: Celtic manager Neil Lennon lifts the SPFL Premiership League trophy . Deila is credited with developing Stefan Johansen, the midfielder who joined Celtic in a £1.5million deal last January. Henrik . Larsson, Roy Keane and Stevie Clarke have all been spoken to by . Parkhead powerbrokers over the role vacated by Neil Lennon a fortnight . ago. However, . a Celtic source told Sportsmail: ‘Ronny has been one of the main . candidates from the start. He has turned Stromsgodset into Norwegian . champions and was always one of the main targets.’ Tempted: Stromsgodset coach Deila has admitted he is flattered by interest from Celtic . Deila is expected to comment on the Celtic link after leading his side in a cup game at Tromsdalen this evening, but Stromsgodset remain tight lipped on their manger's future. 'It’s . always fun when there is speculation in the media about the players and . coaches of Stromsgodset,' said the Norwegian club’s Chief Executive . Erik Espeseth. 'It shows that we have arrived on the map of Europe. On behalf of the club it is flattering. 'But we have no comments in relation to any requests for our players or coaches. 'Generally . speaking we think is it exciting and nice that they are being linked . with major clubs in Europe. It says something that we have built the . club over time.' Norwegian . media reports say Celtic Chief Executive Peter Lawwell contacted . Stromsgodset to express an interest in speaking to Deila on Tuesday . night. Deila’s . agent Tore Pedersen took Stefan Johansen to Glasgow in January and was . non committal on the latest reports of a new frontrunner in the race for . the Parkhead hotseat saying: ‘It’s just speculation. I have seen many . stories like this. ‘I speak with Celtic often. Partly because of Stefan Johansen. I was over there for the last game of the season.’ Deila . stepped into the manager’s chair in 2008 after playing for the club and . has improved their league position every year, culminating in the cup . win four years ago and the title last season. After winning the championship Stromsgodset moved to extend his contract until 2016. Rosenborg . and Swedish club Malmo have been linked with moves for the talented . coach in the recent past, but Stromsgodset chairman Tom Saxegaard . refused to comment saying: ‘You know for sure that we cannot comment on . rumours'.
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Ronny Deila has emerged as the new favourite to replace Neil Lennon at Celtic Park .
Stromsgodset manager is regarded as Norway’s answer to Jurgen Klopp .
Celtic contacted Stromsgodset to speak to Deila on Tuesday night .
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By . Cindy Tran for Daily Mail Australia . and Aap . Members of feminist punk band Pussy Riot have compared Australia’s asylum seeker policy to the Russian prisoner conditions at Sydney's Festival of Dangerous Ideas on Saturday night. Masha Alyokhina and Nadya Tolokonnikova opened their panel discussion at the Sydney Opera House, by addressing a proposal made by Australian activists that the pair boycott the festival, the Guardian reports. 'We were surprised by the problems here, such as detention camps, which are similar to what is happening in Russia,' Tolokonnikova told an audience in Sydney. Masha Alyokhina and Nadya Tolokonnikova opened their panel discussion at Sydney's Festival of Dangerous Ideas . The pair met activists on Friday night to discuss the calls for them to boycott the festival over links between its co-organisers at the St James Ethics Centre and the federal government's asylum seeker strategy. Instead of refusing to attend, the pair said that speaking at the festival would hopefully draw attention to the topic. The members also called on Australia to withdraw its invitation to President Vladimir Putin to attend this year's G20 summit. Members of a feminist punk band Pussy Riot have compared Australia's asylum seeker policy to the Russian prisoner conditions . Alyokhina and Tolokonnikova were both sentenced to two years in jail after staging a protest performance in a Moscow cathedral in 2012 . 'We think that this person has no place at the G20,' Alyokhina said. When Prime Minister Tony Abbott addressed calls for Putin to be excluded from the G20 on Friday, he said it was weighing on his mind. 'It's not a decision which Australia really has a right to make unilaterally,' he told reporters. Alyokhina and Tolokonnikova were both sentenced to two years in jail and were released from prison in December 2013 after staging a protest performance in a Moscow cathedral in 2012. But the women said the situation in Russia was so repressive they would not be able to repeat their cathedral performance. Since their imprisonment, both women have campaigned to defend the rights of prisoners. Members of the all-girl punk band Pussy Riot - Nadezhda Tolokonnikova, Maria Alyokhina and Yekaterina Samutsevich sit in a glass-walled cage during a court hearing in Moscow in August 2012 . Nadezhda Tolokonnikova of Russian punk group Pussy Riot walks in front of the cathedral of Christ of Savior in Moscow in December 2013 .
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Members of a feminist punk band Pussy Riot have compared Australia’s asylum seeker policy to the Russian prisoner conditions .
Masha Alyokhina and Nadya Tolokonnikova opened their panel discussion at Sydney's Festival of Dangerous Ideas .
The pair attended the festival after calls for them to boycott but after opening their panel discussion, they hope it brought attention to the topic .
Alyokhina and Tolokonnikova were both sentenced to two years in jail after staging a protest performance in a Moscow cathedral in 2012 .
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By . Olivia Williams . PUBLISHED: . 14:05 EST, 1 April 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 14:48 EST, 1 April 2013 . An ingenious photographer uses a hidden camera disguised as a fake swan to take his wildlife snaps. Henryk Janowski, 41, manages to get just inches away from birds by using a crafty floating canopy crafted to look like a swan that he made himself. Henryk manages to take intimate pictures by spending hours sitting in the middle of lakes in his hideout. Ingenious: Photographer Henryk Janowski hiding in the water under a floating canopy shaped like a swan . Cunning: Henryk manages to get inches away from wildlife in the water with his elaborate disguise . Subtle: Henryk says that 'nothing can compare to the views' in his disguise . It means that he can get close to the birdlife and capture them at their most natural. Henryk, from Bielawa, Poland, explained that he came up with the idea because he was frustrated at disturbing the birds whenever he tried to get close. He said: 'In my neighbourhood I have a beautiful swamp which attracts all kinds of birds - but it's not very accessible. 'I wanted to be able to photograph the birds without disturbing them. I had to work out a way to capture the images without being an intruder.' Undetected: Henryk Janowski takes a gander through his lens . Stunning results: Henryk managed to take this close up while inside his swan hiding place . Take off: Henryk is surrounded by wildlife totally uninhibited by human presence . After he built the disguise himself, he also bought a diving suit so that he could sit in the cold water for hours. Now he is able to immerse himself in the water almost up to his head. He said 'I went out in the lake to test my idea and go out into the lake. 'It was extremely hard to get to the target area. Under thick layer of water there was a mixture of mud and decaying vegetation. Crossing a few meters took an eternity.' Crafty: Henryk managed to get right up close to the Kingfisher without scaring it away . Eye to eye: This beaver had no idea he was being photographed as he swam right by . In flight: Ducks landing at eye level with the hidden camera . Beak to beak: A detailed picture of a duck taken at a lake near Henryk's home in Poland . Hiding in his cunning contraption for the first time he realised that it was an immediate success. He said: 'Suddenly, all around me I was surrounded by ducks, geese, cranes and swans.' 'Nothing could compare to the view I had before me, and the satisfaction of time and effort I put into the implementation of this new way of shooting. 'Whenever I swim in my camouflage, I feel at one with nature. You pass birds and beavers at play, undisturbed by human presence.' Splashing about: The veteran photographer captured a bird after it had just landed in the middle of the lake . Eerie: Henryk stayed in the cold water until late in the evening to get this atmospheric shot .
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Henryk Janowski gets extraordinary photographs from his swan hideout .
He wears a diving suit to sit in lakes for hours .
Wildlife act naturally because they are oblivious to his presence .
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By . Bianca London . PUBLISHED: . 08:02 EST, 23 October 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 10:30 EST, 23 October 2013 . Kim Kardashian oozes confidence and poise as she showcases her svelte post-baby body in her new Lipsy campaign. But the star has revealed that a few short months ago, she was left feeling insecure and wanting to avoid the limelight due to critical comments about how she looked whilst pregnant. In an interview with Vogue.co.uk, the new mother said: 'For me, having people criticise what I wore and looked like when I was pregnant - that was hard. 'It made me feel insecure, so I have tried to avoid the limelight more.' Negativity: Kim Kardashian says that negative comments when she was pregnant (l) were 'hard' and left her feeling insecure but she is looking better than ever in her new Lipsy shoot (r) Kim, who celebrated her 33rd birthday on Monday, was slated by . fashion critics for her floral sofa-inspired Met Ball gown earlier this year and . funny man Robin Williams even weighed in saying that he wore the look better as cross-dressing octogenarian nanny Euphegenia Doubtfire. But the reality TV star, who announced her engagement to Kanye West on Tuesday, is having the last laugh as she and her sisters show off their money-making bodies in the new Lipsy campaign. Kim recently revealed . that she had used the Atkins diet in a bid to lose weight after the birth and it seems . that she couldn't wait to share the results of her efforts with fans through the new campaign images - as well as her personal Instagram shots. She now appears to be confident in her skin again and enjoying being back in the limelight as she dons a range of fitted dresses for public . appearances. She even ensured that her new range for Lipsy was full of the flattering designs she covets. As she was: Kim was rarely spotted out and about during her pregnancy, save for the odd public appearance (l) and during her court case (r) Me, camera shy? Kim Kardashian proved she has regained her confidence when she posted this saucy snap of herself in a white swimsuit with the caption '#NoFilter' She's back where she belongs: Kim is officially back on form and has been out and about in a range of figure-hugging dresses . Now and then: Kim Kardashian (left) on Thursday . leaving Ruth Chris' Steak House in Woodland Hills and (right) pregnant . in April, tweeted she's lost weight thanks to The Atkins Diet . She said: 'That . idea of casual comfort that people love inspired the fabrics - there's a . lot of stretch. You know an Alaïa dress will hold and suck you in? I . wanted to make pieces like that, pieces to make you feel really good . about yourself.' The Kardashian trio say their new range was inspired by high-end designers. 'Valentino and Isabel Marant aren't really our style, but their influence is reflected in the collection. Kim, who . showcases her new post-baby figure in the shots, said: 'The collection . is inspired by the stylish women from around the world that I’ve had the . pleasure of meeting. This is for those Lipsy girls who have as much fun . with fashion as I do.' They're back! Khloe, left, and Kourtney, . centre, and Kim, right, smoulder in the new campaign for their Kardashian Kollection, . which will land in U.K. store Lipsy London on Thursday . They can't be stopped! The Kardashian sisters are back with a second line for Lipsy London after a stellar first collection in July .
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Kim says negative comments made her avoid the limelight when pregnant .
Star is now firmly back in the limelight as she tweets swimsuit pictures .
Kardashians' collection for Lipsy hits stores on Thursday .
Bodycon dresses and jumpsuits are key part of the range .
Campaign shot by controversial photographer Terry Richardson .
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WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Prosecutors likely would have sought the death penalty against a researcher who killed himself after learning he was going to be charged in the 2001 anthrax killings, two sources told CNN on Friday. Former U.S. Army researcher Bruce Ivins was found unconscious in his Frederick, Maryland, home on Sunday. Three sources familiar with the investigation said the case soon will be closed because a threat no longer exists. No information has been made public about what charges were planned. Authorities had been investigating Bruce Ivins, 62, a former researcher at the Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, a bioweapons laboratory at Fort Detrick, Maryland, according to the sources, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the investigation is still officially open. Ivins had been working at Fort Detrick trying to develop a vaccine against the deadly anthrax toxin. A U.S. official with knowledge of the investigation told CNN on Friday that authorities were looking at whether Ivins released anthrax as a way to test his vaccine. A spokesman for Maryland's medical examiner told CNN Friday the official cause of Ivins' death on Tuesday was suicide. One of CNN's sources said Ivins knew he was about to be charged. The medical examiner's spokesman said he could not confirm a report in the Los Angeles Times that Ivins had taken Tylenol mixed with codeine. The Times first reported Ivins' death on its Web site early Friday. Watch what's known so far about case against Ivins » . Ivins' attorney said Friday his client was innocent of the anthrax deaths, and said he is disappointed that he "will not have the opportunity to defend his good name." In a written statement, attorney Paul Kemp said his firm had represented Ivins for more than a year. "The relentless pressure of accusation and innuendo takes its toll in different ways on different people, as has already been seen in this investigation. In Dr. Ivins' case, it led to his untimely death. We ask that the media respect the privacy of his family, and allow them to grieve." The anthrax mailings, which killed five people, shook the nation just weeks after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. There have been no arrests in the case, which started after someone sent letters laced with spores of deadly anthrax to congressional offices and several news organizations. Among those who died were two postal workers. Two contaminated letters were sent to senators, exposing 30 staffers. Read more on the health risks of anthrax . A spokesman for the Frederick County, Maryland, Fire and Rescue Service told CNN that someone called the 911 center at 1:08 a.m. Sunday to report an unconscious person at a home at 622 Military Road. Frederick Police Capt. Kevin Grubb said Ivins was found unresponsive on the floor of a bathroom. He was taken to Frederick Memorial Hospital. Ivins' modest two-story home is located across from Fort Detrick. Court documents show that a judge issued a restraining order against Ivins on July 24, days before his suicide. A woman sought the order against "Dr. Bruce Edward Ivins," whom she accused of making threats of violence, harassment and stalking in the previous 30 days. In the order, Ivins is told not to contact the woman -- whom CNN is not identifying -- by telephone or other means, and to stay away from her place of employment. A hearing on the order had been scheduled for Thursday, and according to court documents, she had been subpoenaed to testify before a federal grand jury in Washington on Friday. John Ezzell, former chief of special pathogens at Fort Detrick, said he was involved in hiring Ivins, who worked at the facility for years before retiring in 2006. He declined to describe Ivins' exact job responsibilities, but said, "He was an interesting character." Ezzell said Ivins was the one who examined an anthrax-laced letter that was sent to Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vermont, in November 2001. The envelope, which was opened in the lab, contained 23,000 anthrax spores and was postmarked October 9 in Trenton, New Jersey. Ivins' brother, Tom, said the FBI questioned him about his brother about a year and a half ago. Investigators "asked you about your personal life, how you got along with your brothers when you grew up," he said. Watch as Tom Ivins talks about his brother » . "They said they were investigating him when they talked to me," said Tom Ivins, who said he was not close to his brother and never spoke to him about the anthrax investigation. "I stay away from him," he said. An FBI spokeswoman declined to comment about Ivins on Friday. A Justice Department spokesman could not be reached for comment. The FBI had traced the anthrax used in the attacks to the lab, the U.S. Army Medical Institute of Infectious Diseases, one of CNN's sources said. CNN has been told by a source familiar with the investigation that new technology helped in the breakthrough. A separate source, a U.S. official familiar with the investigation, told CNN that a genetic technology aided in the investigation and identification of the anthrax used in the attacks and led investigators back to the Ft. Detrick lab. Fort Detrick issued a statement mourning the death of Ivins, who worked at the U.S. Army Medical Institute of Infectious Diseases for more than 35 years as a civilian microbiologist. "In addition to his long and faithful government service, Bruce contributed to our community as a Red Cross volunteer with the Frederick County chapter. We will miss him very much," the statement said. Ivins had been questioned previously by the FBI, as had many scientists assisting the FBI, the source said. Investigators believed the culprit might be a scientist because of the amount of knowledge needed to process the anthrax. FBI Director Robert Mueller told CNN in July that "there have been breakthroughs" in the investigation and he was confident it would be resolved. Watch Mueller discuss "breakthroughs" in anthrax case » . "We've made great progress in the investigation and it's in no way dormant," Mueller said. "I'm confident in the course of the investigation, I'm confident of the steps that have been taken in the course of the investigation, and I'm confident that it will be resolved." Early in the investigation, Attorney General John Ashcroft publicly identified a "person of interest" in the anthrax case -- Steven Hatfill, a former civilian researcher on anthrax. Hatfill and Ivins both worked at the bioweapons lab at Fort Detrick. Hatfill was not charged and strongly denied involvement. He sued the Justice Department, claiming his privacy rights were violated when his name was leaked to the media in connection with the ongoing federal investigation into the biological attacks. Watch Hatfill deny involvement in anthrax case » . The Justice Department reached a settlement with Hatfill in June. He is to receive a one-time payment of $2.8 million and $150,000 a year for life. CNN's Kevin Bohn, Kelli Arena and Mike Ahlers contributed to this report.
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NEW: U.S. official: We were looking at whether Ivins released anthrax to test vaccine .
Attorney says Ivins was innocent in anthrax case, pressure caused his death .
Suicide is official cause of death for Bruce Ivins, medical examiner says .
Ivins was being investigated in 2001 anthrax attacks, source says .
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By . Adam Shergold . Jose Mourinho turned up in the West Flanders town of Waregem on Thursday night on a very important scouting mission. The Chelsea manager could cover most of western Europe each and every week checking up on the progress of his battalion of loanees, but few in his extended squad are as special as Thorgan Hazard. The 21-year-old brother of Eden has been in spectacular form ever since the unglamorous and unheralded Belgian Pro League outfit Zulte-Waregem borrowed him last summer and now Mourinho had come to see if all the positive feedback was true. Scroll down for videos... Young gun: Chelsea winger Thorgan Hazard (L) looks set for a loan move to Borussia Monchengladbach . Sibling rivalry: Thorgan Hazard is rated by some as an even better prospect than brother Eden (R) Wearing a navy blue overcoat and a shirt casually untucked and unbuttoned, Mourinho sat at the front of the main stand in the compact 10,200-seater Regenboogstadion with his assistant Rui Faria. He carefully studied a teamsheet on which just the one name would have been familiar - the man in the all-red strip, wearing the No 10 on his back. Ahead of kick-off, the home fans behind one goal would have caught Mourinho’s eye as they unfurled an enormous white banner that covered the stand from pitch to roof. Next to the face of Thorgan Hazard, written in English, the slogan: ‘Arrived as “Little brother of...” Leaving as OUR golden boy.’ Thorgan will always be the younger sibling of Eden but he’s been making plenty of noise of his own without having to rely on the reflected glory of his big brother. 14 goals and 17 assists during the Pro League season took Zulte into the six-team Championship Play-off, where they are on the brink of qualifying for next season’s Europa League. On the night of his late-season visit, Mourinho was able to watch Thorgan in action for a full 90 minutes but came away without seeing him find the target as he had done in his last three outings. Zulte went down 2-1 to Anderlecht, the favourites to win the league when Belgium’s complex format of play-offs come to their conclusion this weekend. Even Eden, regarded by many Chelsea fans as their best player following a season of 17 goals and 10 assists, concedes that Thorgan is the better player. Scout and about: Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho visited Belgium to personally check on Thorgan's progress . Mr Versatile: The winger has impressed during two seasons on loan at Belgian side Zulte Waregem . There is no sibling rivalry it seems, just an appreciation that Thorgan has, or soon will have, the more complete suite of attributes. A creative No 10, Thorgan possesses well-honed dribbling and shooting skills, a deft touch and close control. He has come on leaps and bounds during his second loan season at Zulte, finding the net far more often and offering more for his teammates. His sense of adventure on the field is summed up by this quote from a couple of years back: ‘When I have two strikers in front of me, I have fewer possibilities on the sides to widen the play. Blues brother: Eden Haxard was voted Young Player of the Year after an impressive season at Chelsea . ‘But it’s easiest to find me and to play deeply. It’s a matter of movement and animation in front of me. ‘But in fact, I don’t care. I like to play direct football as much as to build an attack on the sides. When you like to play in support of the striker, you have to adapt.’ So there you have it - play me wherever you like, I’ll prosper. His form fuelled speculation that he could be on the Belgian plane to Brazil with his elder brother. In the end, he had to settle for the standby list this time. He has played a full part in the Under 21s qualification campaign for the European Championships and it seems a matter of time before Marc Wilmots unleashes him on the world. Wanted man: Hazard has attracted interest from a number of clubs in Germany and the Premier League . Thorgan could not have done a great deal more during his loan spell in Belgium. The fact Mourinho made a trip just to check up on him suggests there’s every chance he’ll be at Stamford Bridge next season. Now he has to prove he can cope in the Premier League. But if he is truly the better Hazard sibling, then that shouldn’t be much of a problem.
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Chelsea youngster Thorgan Hazard has been impressing on loan with Belgian club Zulte-Waregem - scoring 14 goals and making 17 assists .
The 21-year-old is considered by some as a better prospect than older brother Eden .
Jose Mourinho has travelled to Belgium to make a personal check on rising star Thorgan .
The youngster could return to Stamford Bridge next season .
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Los Angeles (CNN) -- Michael Jackson's nephew revealed Thursday that when he was molested as a child, Jackson "was a support system for me and my mom." Taj Jackson, 39, claimed he was a child sex abuse victim in a series of Twitter messages posted in response to Wade Robson's televised claim that Michael Jackson molested him. "I will not let them smear my Uncle's legacy," he tweeted. Robson, a dancer who frequently visited Jackson's Neverland Ranch as a child, called Jackson "a pedophile and a child sexual abuser" in an interview Thursday on NBC's "Today Show." He said Jackson "performed sexual acts on me and forced me to perform sexual acts on him" from ages 7 to 14. Apparently Taj Jackson, one of three sons of Tito Jackson, posted a series of Twitter messages in defense of his uncle, Michael Jackson. "I hate that Wade made me do this, this way," Taj Jackson tweeted. "But since my uncle Michael is no longer here to defend himself. I will." "I am writing these words knowing that the minute I press send, my life will never be the same afterwards," he tweeted, before claiming in another tweet that he was sexually abused as a child by a relative. Michael Jackson "was a support system for me and my mom," he tweeted. "He wrote a letter to her that many have seen already, u just didn't know what it was about." He posted a photo of that handwritten note from Michael Jackson to Taj's mother Dee Dee Jackson: . "Dee Dee, Please read this article about child molestation and read it to Taj, T.J. and Taryll. It brings out how even your own relatives can be molesters of children, or even uncles or aunts molesting nephew or nieces. Please read. Love MJ." It was his own childhood experience that qualified him to question Robson's accusations, he said. "That is how I KNOW Wade is lying. Because I AM a survivor." Robson, now 30, denied in testimony at Jackson's child molestation trial in 2005 that he had been molested by the singer. Jackson was acquitted, partly based on the testimony of Robson, his sister and his mother. Tom Mesereau, the lawyer who successfully defended Jackson in the trial, said he was one of his strongest witnesses. Robson said Thursday that his denial was the result of Jackson's "complete manipulation and brainwashing" of him. "Don't forget I was living at Neverland when Wade testified during my uncle's case," Taj Jackson tweeted. "I sat there and ate dinner with him and his family." Robson, who filed a creditor's claim against Jackson's estate this month, insisted in the NBC interview he was not now coming forward because of money. "The idea that I would make all of this up and put myself, my wife, my son, my entire family through this extremely stressful and painful experience all for the sake of money is completely incomprehensible," he said. Taj Jackson's tweets challenged Robson's explanation. "What people will $ay and do for money and to $tay relevant is $ickening. De$perate times call for De$perate mea$ures. I will not sit back and let someone flat out lie about my uncle. PERIOD." "I always told my uncle Michael that I would take a bullet for him," he tweeted. "I mean it today just as much as I meant it back then." Taj Jackson's brother T.J. Jackson was appointed as a co-guardian of Michael Jackson's three children last year.
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Taj Jackson reveals he was sexually abused as a child .
"Even your own relatives can be molesters of children," Michael Jackson wrote .
Taj Jackson's Twitter postings defending Michael Jackson against Wade Robson's charge .
Taj Jackson: "I KNOW Wade is lying. Because I AM a survivor"
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Los Angeles (CNN) -- Artist Thomas Kinkade's death last month was from an accidental overdose of alcohol and Valium, according to the Santa Clara County, California, medical examiner. Kinkade, 54, also suffered from hypertensive and atherosclerotic heart disease, said the autopsy report released Monday. The report cited "acute ethanol and diazepam intoxication" as the cause of death and "accidental" as the manner of death. Diazepam is a prescription anti-anxiety drug also known as Valium. Related: Alcohol and Valium together can shut down the the brain . Kinkade, one of the most popular artists in America, painted more than 1,000 pieces on various topics, including cabins, nature scenes, seascapes and classic Americana. Art from the self-described "painter of light," adorns many living rooms in America. It emphasizes simple pleasures and warm, positive images of idyllic cottages, lighthouses and colorful gardens. "He had a rare ability to exude a sense of warmth, a transcendent light," said Robert Goodwin, who wrote the book "Points of Light: A Celebration of the American Spirit of Giving," with Kinkade. "He had a great commitment to inspire others -- one who was nurtured in his early life by family and friends and church to really be an example of selfless acts of service," he said Saturday. "My mission as an artist is to capture those special moments in life adorned with beauty and light," Kinkade said in a message on his website. "I work to create images that project a serene simplicity that can be appreciated and enjoyed by everyone. That's what I mean by sharing the light." In 2006, the artist recalled one of his earliest lessons during an interview with CNN's Larry King. "When I was a young boy, my mother told me, 'Your talents are God's gifts to you, and what you do with those talents are your gift to God,'" he said.
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Kinkade's autopsy found "acute ethanol and diazepam intoxication"
The painter also suffered from hypertensive and atherosclerotic heart disease, the coroner says .
Kinkade, one of the most popular artists in America, painted more than 1,000 pieces .
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By . Anna Edwards . PUBLISHED: . 07:14 EST, 30 January 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 07:25 EST, 30 January 2013 . Bob Lodwidge has suffered from severe toothache since dental treatment to remove a tooth . A routine trip to the dentist has ruined a father's life after it left him with a condition which makes it too painful to talk or eat. Bob Lodwidge has suffered excruciating toothache for more than a year and is now five-stone lighter as he cannot bear to eat. The furniture store owner claims his life has been ruined after a routine tooth removal left him in unrelenting agony despite taking 25 painkillers daily. Following surgery the father-of-two, . 52, of Winchester, Hampshire, was diagnosed with left-sided trigeminal . neuralgia. This condition causes shooting pains through his face constantly, . leaving it too painful to talk or eat. His condition has also made it impossible to work and run his new furniture shop. Mr Lodwidge said: 'Before this I was a . happy, outgoing, larger than life character but now I'm depressed in . constant pain so can't talk and I have lost all my confidence. 'I feel I am half the man I used to be and it is heart-breaking to see the affect it is having on my family.' As a result of his toothache Mr Lodgwidge sleeps 15 hours a day and his diet is limited to porridge and yoghurts. Bob and his wife Rose-Marie Lodwidge pictured in summer 2011 before he underwent dental treatment which has left him in agony . His condition - considered to be one . of the most painful known to man - has also affected his marriage to . wife of 32 years wife Rose-Marie. Rose-Marie, 50, said: 'He's not the man I married; he has no quality of life at all. 'We don't get to spend any time together, and I know our children and granddaughter Sian are desperate to spend time with him too. It's horrible to see him like this.' Trigeminal Neuralgia is an extremely severe facial pain that has unpredictable sudden shock-like attacks. The pain can be triggered by light touches, and is described as stabbing, shooting, excruciating or burning. It usually lasts for a few seconds but there can be many bursts of pain in quick succession. One theory is that it is caused by the trigeminal nerve wrongly sending out inappropriate pain signals. Trigeminal neuralgia is a long-term condition that often gets worse over time. It is normally treated with surgery or painkillers. After numerous trips to his GP and . Southampton General Hospital Mr Lodwidge has been given various . medications to try and ease the pain but as of yet nothing has worked. His daily dose of drugs includes oral morphine. The father, who now has a phobia of dentists added: 'Doctors have suggested alternative painkillers and a balloon compression. 'This involves inflating a balloon over the trigeminal nerve to relieve pressure but I think surgery is the only viable option. 'It is just running my life. I really do hope that this nightmare will be over soon so my family and I can get back to our happy life.' A spokesman from Southampton General Hospital added: 'Mr Lodwidge has a rare and painful complaint. 'He is now under the care of our neurosurgery team as we look to help find a safe, appropriate and effective solution for him.'
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Bob Lodwidge has been left with trigeminal neuralagia after the routine tooth removal procedure .
Father-of-two can now only eat yoghurt and porridge because eating causes him so much pain .
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By . Ian Ladyman . David Moyes has reminded Wilfried Zaha that he is a Manchester United player after telling him he cant yet go on loan. The United manager met the young winger on the training field yesterday and told him that he would not consider him for a move away from the club until fellow attackers Nani and Ashley Young were fit. Moyes denied reports of a row between him and the youngster but has stressed in no uncertain terms that Zaha's obligations are to United. VIDEO: Scroll down to watch Tony Pulis say Crystal Palace would be up for Zaha loan . Staying power: David Moyes has told Wilfried Zaha that he cannot leave Manchester United on loan . Bench mark: Zaha, pictured with Shinji Kagawa (left), has not started a league game under Moyes . Moyes said ahead of tomorrows game at Chelsea: 'Wilfried Zaha has a chance. 'I have told him that if I can’t get him the games I will put him out on loan. 'But he can’t go out while we have Ashley and Nani injured and I would be surprised if anyone thought was a possibility.' Cardiff City have been strongly linked with a loan move for Zaha, who has hardly played under Moyes this season. Asked if he had argued with Zaha on . Friday, Moyes said: 'I had 30 seconds chat on the training pitch today . and we were talking away. So there was nothing like that. 'I have indicated to the boy (that he can go on loan when others get fit). 'But he is a Manchester United player, that’s what he is.' Opportunity knocks! Moyes claims Zaha has a chance when United take on Jose Mourinho's Chelsea . Since Alex Ferguson paid £15million to bring Zaha from Crystal Palace last January, the England winger has only played a meagre 167minutes on the pitch. Speaking in October, Moyes said: ''Wilf has not appeared. We have not felt we have had the opportunity. I want Wilf to get used to what happens here. 'The competition is hard. It is important Wilf gets to see the level of the training here, the level of the players and the quality they have got. He is getting better.’ Despite his underwhelming start, Gareth Southgate insists it is too early to write off Zaha's career at Old Trafford. ‘I am sure in time he . will be an asset for Manchester United but I guess everything there with . the new manager and everything, everybody is getting used to a new way . of working,' said the England Under 21 manager. Not the right time: Zaha will be allowed to leave on loan if United's injury problems ease . Moyes has confirmed that several teams are interested in taking Zaha on loan - with former club Crystal Palace the most prominent, although manager Tony Pulis has revealed that Moyes does not want the player to return to London. 'We’ve spoken to David Moyes about Zaha and I don’t think he’s too keen on him coming back to London,' he told talkSPORT in January. 'It’s . not a problem for us, he’s a Manchester United player. We don’t think . it’s a goer, although we were very keen if there was a possibility to . take him on.' Wilfried Zaha has played a mere 28 minutes in the Premier League for Manchester United in two cameo substitute appearances - and he had to wait for December for his first top-flight match. Dec 7: Man Utd 0 Newcastle 1 (22 mins) Dec 15: Aston Villa 0 Man Utd 3 (six mins) He has not really made an impact in those games, having just 29 touches in 28 minutes. He has had one (off-target) shot, and has tried just 11 passes, completing 64 per cent of them. Most surprisingly for Zaha, given his style of play, he has attempted just four dribbles and only one of those has been a success. His one cross also came to nothing.
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Moyes has reminded Zaha he is a United player and will not leave on loan .
The United boss will consider a loan when Nani and Young return from injury .
Moyes has dismissed reports the two had a training ground argument .
Zaha has played only 167 minutes of football since his £15million move .
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By . Ben Ince . I cruised through my 20s with a lean physique and - at the very least - a four-pack. But a combination of age, a busy work schedule, a lack of exercise and a new-found love of cheesecake left me staring at 30 with blossoming love handles and an unseemly gut. To make matters worse, my wedding was fast approaching, and the last thing I wanted to do was to let my fiancee down by looking like a slob in front of all our friends and family. I was desperate to turn things around, get back in shape and look my best for our big day. Trainer Rich Phillipps, director of Embody Fitness, was there to offer a solution - but it wouldn’t be easy. Scroll down for video . Shaping up: Men's Fitness deputy editor Ben Ince, 29, went from fat to flat in eight weeks and dropped from 18 per cent body fat to 7 per cent, as well as reducing his waistline by 4 inches. Here, he is pictured (L-R) at weeks 1, 3, 5, 7 and 8 . For starters, I always thought my diet was pretty clean - I was wrong. For the first two weeks, Phillipps put me on a high-protein, no-carb diet consisting of a kilo of meat and fish a day, with only green veg, nuts and water to accompany it. This involved planning my food shops and batch-cooking my meals with military precision, and it wasn’t cheap. But once I got used to the idea of food being purely a fuel source, I settled into a manageable - if boring - routine. After the initial no-carb shock, Phillipps began reintroducing them to help me build muscle, allowing binge days of ‘clean’ carbs on the weekends. Formerly plain-seeming foods such as brown rice suddenly became the highlight of my culinary week. Before and after: Ben was desperate to get back in shape and look his best for his wedding day. Trainer Rich Phillipps, director of Embody Fitness, was there to offer a solution . It wasn't easy! By tinkering with the workouts and adding brutal upgrades - such as wearing a 20kg chain around his neck during farmer's walks to strengthen his upper back - Phillipps forced Ben's muscles to grow . The big day: Ben's fiance - who had been amazingly supportive throughout - was thrilled with the results . Meanwhile, I was making progress in the gym. After two weeks of full-body conditioning workouts - designed to improve technique and kick-start my metabolism - I moved on to three-way body part splits, training chest, back and triceps in one session, then shoulders, biceps and legs in another. The workouts combined big compound moves such as the deadlift and bench press with strongman exercises such as sled drags and Viking presses, finishing off with isolation moves including curls and flyes (when you lie on a bench use the pectoral and deltoid muscles to lift the weights inwards). By tinkering with the workouts and adding brutal upgrades - such as wearing a 20kg chain around my neck during farmer’s walks to strengthen my upper back - Phillipps forced my muscles to grow. By the end of the eight weeks, my body fat had plummeted from 18.5 per cent to 7.1 per cent, while my abs and obliques were completely shredded, holding just 6mm and 6.2mm of fat. Building muscle: Ben;s workouts combined big compound moves such as the deadlift and bench press with strongman exercises such as sled drags and Viking presses, finishing off with isolation moves including curls and flyes . I’d put on upper-body muscle too, as well as improving my posture by counteracting an imbalance around my scapula that had been giving me grief for years. What’s more, the diet had worked wonders for my digestive system and reminded me of how much fun weekends are without a crushing hangover. My fiance - who had been amazingly supportive throughout - was thrilled with the results. I hadn’t looked even remotely this good since the early days of our relationship, and while she wasn’t a fan of the obligatory photoshoot chest wax, my newly rediscovered abs more than made up for it. The only unexpected drawback was that none of my clothes fitted anymore, but thankfully I’d been planning to go suit shopping at the last minute anyway due to my best man being out of the country. When my wedding day finally arrived I looked and felt better than I had at any point in my entire adult life. And if I can do it, there’s no reason why you can’t too. Multiple benefits: Ben had put on upper-body muscle too, as well as improving his posture . Cover star! Ben's story features in Get A Six Pack In 8 Weeks, available in Men's Fitness . Get A Six Pack In 8 Weeks, £9.99 from Men's Fitness, has everything you need to know about how to get a six-pack in just two months. Pre-order it here . Follow Ben on Twitter @ben_ince and Men's Fitness @mensfitnessmag . Watch the full 6 weeks transformation here . Breakfast250g minced beef pattie, grilled50g nutsMid-morning200g chicken breast, grilledLunch200g minced beef pattie, grilledHandful of steamed broccoliMid-afternoon200g chicken breast, grilledDinner200g cod fillet, poachedHandful of asparagus, steamed .
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Men’s Fitness deputy editor went from flabby to fit in eight weeks .
Ben, 29, dropped from 18% body fat to 7% .
Reduced his waistline by 4in .
Reveals his secrets to getting ripped for a wedding, holiday or big event .
Explains how YOU can get a rock-hard six-pack in two months .
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A lab mix-up involving a deadly flu virus strain added to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's public relations nightmare this summer. On Friday, the public health agency released the results of its internal investigation into the incident, along with a series of reports on actions being taken to ensure lab safety protocols are being properly followed. In May, CDC lab workers unintentionally mixed a low pathogenic, or non-dangerous, avian influenza virus sample with a potentially deadly virus called H5N1, then shipped the sample to an external lab run by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The H5N1 strain has killed millions of birds and infected more than 600 people over the last decade. But no one appears to have been at-risk of being infected during the incident since the sample was stored and shipped properly, according to the CDC reports. "The contamination most likely happened due to the failure of a laboratory scientist to adhere to established best practices and the absence of an approved laboratory team-specific protocol for the work being done," the reports concluded. Dr. Tom Frieden, the CDC's director, found out about the H5N1 incident nearly six weeks after it happened, something he called at the time "most distressing." This delay in reporting the cross-contamination was due to "a lack of awareness and understanding about reporting requirements for Select Agents," according to the reports. Around the same time he heard about the flu incident, Frieden was dealing with the possible exposure of up to 86 of his workers to anthrax. Anthrax investigation turns up 'distressing' issues at CDC . Michael Farrell, who headed the Bioterrorism Rapid Response and Advanced Technology Laboratory involved, submitted his resignation in July. He had been reassigned from his post in June after the anthrax incident was made public. CDC lab director resigns after anthrax incident . The CDC says the potential anthrax exposure happened between June 6 and 13. The bioterrorism lab had been preparing anthrax samples for use in two other labs on the CDC's Atlanta campus and failed to deactivate the samples adequately. According to another CDC investigation report, the exposure happened because the lab didn't use an approved sterilization technique. It didn't have a written plan reviewed by senior staff to make sure all safety protocols were followed, and there was a limited knowledge of peer-reviewed literature about the process that would make it less dangerous. The lab also did not have a standard operating procedure that would make sure the transfer of the material would be safe. Bottom line: "The scientists failed to follow a scientifically derived and reviewed protocol that would have assured the anthrax was deactivated," Frieden said last month. It "should have happened, and it didn't." As a result of these problems, the CDC has stopped transferring materials in and out of its highest-level labs. "The moratorium will remain in place pending lab-by-lab review of policies and procedures for laboratory safety and security," the CDC says. CDC's lab problems have ripple effect on other outbreaks . Frieden plans to appoint a CDC director of laboratory safety, and establish a working group to review safety protocols. "The work of safety is never complete," Dr. Michael Bell, interim director of laboratory safety, said in a statement. "We will continue to take all necessary steps to maintain safety and advance CDC's critical laboratory science work, so that CDC labs are the most scientifically rigorous and the safest in the world."
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CDC lab workers unintentionally mixed non-dangerous flu strain with H5N1 .
Reports: Contamination happened because scientists failed to follow "best practices"
CDC director found out about cross-contamination several weeks after it happened .
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Editor's note: A nationally syndicated columnist, Roland S. Martin is the author of "Listening to the Spirit Within: 50 Perspectives on Faith" and "Speak, Brother! A Black Man's View of America." Visit his Web site for more information. Roland Martin says men are harming their health by their reluctance to go to the doctor. (CNN) -- A couple of years ago, my dad told me that he had a cataract in his eye and could barely see out of it and that he needed to get it fixed. "Cool. Go to the doctor and get it taken care of," I said. "I will," he replied. One month became three; three months turned into six months; and a year later and numerous calls later by a ticked-off son, he still had not gone to the doctor. So one morning, when I was hosting the 6 to 9 a.m. talk show shift on WVON-AM in Chicago, Illinois, I told my producer, Geneen Harston, to call my dad, but don't tell him he'll be on the air. When the commercials ended, I pulled him up on the air and asked, "So, dad, have you made that doctor's appointment?" He started to laugh and said that he had done so the day before and that he was seeing the doctor later in the week. Luckily, he followed through, and they discovered that he had another one growing in the other eye. Both eyes were taken care of, and all has been well since. Yet what ticked me off was that here was a guy with insurance, a son who could pay for the bill even if he didn't, but he still refused to go to the doctor! Watch Roland's commentary segment » . My dad's story is all too common to a lot of you who must deal with fathers, brothers, uncles, husbands and male cousins, church members and co-workers, who are obstinate and absolutely refuse to go to the doctor. "Oh, I'll be fine." "I can handle the pain." "I don't want a doctor poking on me." "If it's bad, I'm sure it would hurt worse." All typical responses, and all pretty dumb. Yes, it's true that women all around the globe have outlived men for years. In the United States, the life expectancy for men is 74 and for women is 80. Yet when that is broken down racially, there is a huge gap between whites, blacks, Hispanics and Asians. Men are dying earlier due to prostate cancer, heart disease, stroke and other maladies, and their actions play a large role in it. Black men in particular drive me nuts. I've heard several mention that their aversion to doctors stems from the Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment, the study conducted between 1932 and 1972 that monitored black sharecroppers who were infected with the disease but didn't treat them, much less inform them that they had it. That program by the U.S. Public Health Service was hideous but shouldn't be used as an excuse today. Men can no longer be so hard-headed about their health. I've given speeches on this issue and told married women that they should say, "no doctor's visit, no sex." That'll get his attention! We all love the men in our lives. But being silent means we are aiding them in their health dilemma, and that's wrong. If it means lovingly reminding, fine. If you have to badger them, whatever. Just like Dad told us to eat our vegetables when were kids, saying we'll be better off as adults because of it, we should tell Dad or any other man to stop acting like a child and go see the doc. It really could save their life. The opinions expressed in this column are solely those of Roland Martin.
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Roland Martin: Men are foolishly reluctant to go to the doctor .
He says some black men cite the infamous Tuskegee Experiment .
Martin: Men already have a shorter life expectancy than women .
He says that failing to detect and treat illness makes no sense .
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12090d2b3fecf86c0d8ce72de5edc05947f73ee6
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Parliamentarians have been informed that canteen staff cannot open the freezer due to 'circumstances beyond our control' Bungling MPs have called a locksmith into Parliament – after somebody lost the key to the ice-cream freezer. Parliamentarians have been informed that canteen staff cannot open the freezer due to 'circumstances beyond our control'. A note placed on top of the freezer adds that a locksmith has been called and is 'working to rectify the problem'. Conservative MP Charlotte Leslie spotted the sign on Monday lunchtime. She tweeted a picture of the note with the caption: 'Spotted at the House of Commons canteen. You couldn't make it up.' Ms Leslie added: 'I want to know what the 'circumstances beyond our control' is! Rogue anarchist factions in the Freezer dept?!' The note read: 'Due to circumstances beyond our control we are unable to open the ice-cream freezer. The locksmith has been notified and is working to rectify the problem. 'Should you require ice-cream please ask a member of the Debate staff who will be happy to help. Please accept our apologies for the inconvenience caused.' The ice-cream freezer is open to all MPs and staff in the House of Commons. Conservative MP Charlotte Leslie - a trained lifeguard - spotted the sign on Monday lunchtime.She tweeted a picture of the note with the caption: 'Spotted at the House of Commons canteen. You couldn't make it up' Ms Leslie said: 'We all had a good laugh about it. Who would want ice cream on a cold January? 'And the circumstances as to why there needed to be a locksmith called have to be investigated. 'Maybe we have got anarchy among our ice cream freezers? MPs like to feel important, but I think this is a slight warping of our priorities. As far as I can tell, the freezer was empty anyway.' The Debate is one of three main eateries inside the Commons. The House of Commons staff are aware of the incident and are investigating.
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Staff cannot open the freezer due to 'circumstances beyond our control'
A note placed on top of the freezer adds that a locksmith has been called .
Conservative MP Charlotte Leslie said: 'You couldn't make it up'
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120935732a4376490eaa12ea2b1c6f92b397c5e6
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Washington (CNN) -- President Barack Obama is showing his softer side. The man who was known in his first term for his cool, detached style has been crying, repeatedly. It started the day after his re-election when a teary and happy president told campaign volunteers, "I'm so proud of you guys." A month later he was overcome by grief as he wept openly in the White House briefing room after the Newtown, Connecticut, shootings. There were tears again during a heroes ceremony for Newtown victims, and while delivering remarks about Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. The evolution of the nation's 'first gay president' Second-term Obama is not just showing his emotions, he's sharing them, too -- laughing with the Miami Heat at the White House and telling people in a Chicago audience that they're in the area where "Michelle and I fell in love." The president's biographer attributes the shift to a new sense of freedom from winning a second term. "I think we've all seen, actually since the day after his re-election a more relaxed Barack Obama, really something that took a lifetime for him to get to this point," David Maraniss said. "We've really seen a new Obama." The "new" Obama is venturing into territory the first term Obama shied away from. Obama urges court to overturn California same-sex marriage ban . He talked about his complicated biracial identity in this eulogy for Sen. Daniel Inouye of Hawaii. "Here I was, a young boy with a white mom, a black father, raised in Indonesia and Hawaii," the president said at the National Cathedral in Washington. "And I was beginning to sense how fitting into the world might not be as simple as it might seem." To kids at home in Chicago, he admitted he was often in trouble when he was a teenager. "When I screwed up, the consequences weren't as high as when kids on the South Side screw up," he told them. "So I had more of a safety net but these guys are no different than me." And, he used unusually personal language to describe King's struggles. "We often think of him standing tall in front of these endless crowds, stirring the nation's conscience with a bellowing voice and a mighty dream. But I also thought of his doubts ... the lonely moments when he was left to confront the presence of long-festering injustice and undisguised hate," Obama told a crowd at the National Prayer Breakfast in February. "(I) imagined the darkness and the doubt that must have surrounded him when he was in that Birmingham jail, and the anger that surely rose up in him the night his house was bombed." The president and the nation have evolved on same-sex marriage . Obama's biographer says a more complete personality is coming into focus. "I don't think one ever knows the real him. But I think that it's closer to being the private and the public Obama coming together in a clearer way," Maraniss said. This warmer more revealing Obama was on display during the 2008 campaign. Then he used his biography to sell himself as the melting pot embodied. His most vocal critics turned parts of his resume into punch lines, perhaps most memorably by former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin at the 2008 Republican National Convention. "I guess a small-town mayor is sort of like a community organizer, except you have actual responsibilities," Palin said. Perhaps in reaction, once in office the president became more cautious about talking about his past. On most topics, he just didn't go there. Obama: Spending cuts would be bad for business . But now, free of the pressure to woo swing voters, he's back to using his story and his rhetorical skills to try to inspire audiences and pitch policies. Obama himself said Tuesday night in Virginia: "I've run my last election." He told CBS' Charlie Rose last summer that the biggest mistake of his first term was not communicating his vision with the American people. "When I think about what we've done well and what we haven't done well, the mistake of my first term -- couple of years -- was thinking that this job was just about getting the policy right," he said. "And that's important but the nature of this office is also to tell a story to the American people that gives them a sense of unity and purpose and optimism, especially during tough times." These days he's hardly touchy-feely, but he's more likely to wear his heart on his sleeve. And use passion for political effect. During the fight over forced spending cuts, he's made a clear effort to put faces on the impending changes. At one White House event, he got emotional as he stood in front of a group of first responders. "And this is not an abstraction. There are people whose livelihoods are at stake. There are communities that are going to be impacted in a negative way," he said. "And I know that sometimes all this squabbling in Washington seems very abstract, and in the abstract, people like the idea, there must be some spending we can cut, there must be some waste out there. There absolutely is. But this isn't the right way to do it." Rewind back to four years ago in March 2009, the same president was confronted with a teacher about to lose her job. Instead of consoling her or expressing her concern, he asked if she got a "pink slip" and launched into his views on education policy. These days he's doing better on the empathy test. In a gun control plea at his recent State of the Union address, the chamber rose to its feet as a fervent Obama reminded the country of recent tragedies. "Gabby Giffords deserves a vote. The families of Newtown deserve a vote," Obama said on the House floor. "The families of Aurora deserve a vote. The families of Oak Creek and Tucson and Blacksburg and the countless other communities ripped open by gun violence, they deserve a simple vote." That's the kind of emotional rallying cry he once saved for campaign style events outside the Beltway. No longer. Even the president admits he has changed, in repeated humble brags. "The fascinating thing about this job is the longer you're in it, the more humble you get and the more you recognize your own imperfections," he told House Democrats at their retreat in Virginia. "The one thing about being president is after four years, you get pretty humble," Obama said Tuesday. "You think maybe you wouldn't but you become more humble. You realize what you don't know. You realize, you know, all the mistakes you make." It's humility he can afford, after winning a second term. "President Obama is never going to be the 'I feel your pain' Bill Clinton-type of president but he's getting closer," Maraniss said.
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Obama -- known in his first term for his cool, detached style -- has been seen crying .
The president's biographer attributes the shift to a new sense of freedom .
In an emotional gun-control plea in his State of the Union, the chamber rose to its feet .
Obama: "The one thing about being president is after four years, you get pretty humble"
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120a8ef5af27ecf219110f0759f8b4a9de1f698c
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By . Associated Press . PUBLISHED: . 08:32 EST, 2 February 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 09:04 EST, 2 February 2013 . Out: President of NBC News Steve Capus, pictured, is stepping down . NBC News President Steve Capus, who presided over years of strong ratings at the news division and expanded digital offerings but was hurt by the downfall of the 'Today' show, said on Friday that he was resigning. The Philadelphia-area native joined NBC News 20 years ago and produced various newscasts for Brian Williams before being appointed news division president by Jeff Zucker, at the time chief of NBC Universal, on the week that Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans in 2005. NBC parent company Comcast Corp.'s decision last year to appoint Pat Fili-Krushel to a supervisory role over the company's news properties signaled to many that Capus' tenure was nearing an end. His contract gave Capus an opt-out provision and he chose to exercise it. Capus said in an email to staff members that 'it is now time to head in a new direction,' although he hasn't said what that might be. 'It is impossible to fully express how much I respect the people of NBC News,' he wrote. 'To call everyone 'colleagues' has been a true honor ... but to call so many of you dear friends has been a true gift. Thank you for everything. I could not be prouder of what we have accomplished together.' He added: 'I have seldom described my role as presiding over NBC News... Instead, I have viewed it as leading a collaborative effort to pursue journalistic excellence.' A primary yardstick for network news' success is the ratings for the flagship evening news program, and NBC's broadcast with Williams has held on to the top spot. Capus has expanded NBC's reach with specialty websites aimed at black and Latino audiences, and reached a deal to take over all responsibility for the main NBC news site, buying out Microsoft's stake. Capus also oversaw the MSNBC news division. MSNBC has become profitable through its decision to skew liberal in its commentary. Troubled year: President of NBC News Steve Capus, left, with NBC Nightly News anchor Brian Williams, has had a tough year with the 'Today' show . Tim Russert's sudden death forced Capus to revamp the Sunday morning political talk show 'Meet the Press,' where David Gregory has run hot and cold since taking over. The profitable 'Today' show has taken a hard fall in the past year and now runs a consistent second to ABC's 'Good Morning America.' NBC was widely criticized for mismanagement of Ann Curry's dismissal as 'Today' anchor last summer. Jim Bell, the show's executive producer, stepped down last fall. Fili-Krushel set out a new temporary management structure, increasing the authority of executives Alex Wallace and Antoine Sanfuentes, until she names a successor. 'NBC News is America's leading source of television news and Steve has been a big part of that success,' Fili-Krushel said in a memo to staff members.
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Steve Capus announced his resignation on Friday .
He joined the NBC division 20 years ago and became president in 2005 .
Was hurt by downfall of 'Today' after the morning show has run a consistent second in the ratings to 'Good Morning America' since April .
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Editor's note: Donna Brazile, a Democratic strategist, is a political contributor for CNN. She also is the chairwoman of the Democratic National Committee's Voting Rights Institute, an adjunct professor at Georgetown University and founder of Brazile & Associates, a Washington-based political consulting firm. Brazile, who was the campaign manager for the Al Gore-Joe Lieberman ticket in 2000, wrote "Cooking With Grease: Stirring the Pots in American Politics," a memoir about her life in politics. Donna Brazile tells those in losing campaigns it will take weeks to readjust and for the world to appear normal. (CNN) -- As someone who knows from experience, I write this open letter to all staff members, volunteers and supporters of candidates who lost last Tuesday. No matter how much it hurts to lose a campaign, know that this, too, shall pass. The campaign is finally over, and you are exhausted and ready to transition to your new life or careers. But before you clean off your desk and throw away everything in the back seat of your car and the apartment you rented during the campaign, take a moment. Shake the hand of someone with whom you worked. E-mail a thank-you note to a person who helped get you through this long political season. In other words, exhale. Campaigns are not for the fainthearted. They are tough -- mentally, physically and spiritually. Once a campaign ends, an emptiness comes over you. You find yourself struggling to figure out how to become human again. Suddenly, you're going to the grocery store, reading the entire newspaper instead of the clips, and, yes, speaking in complete sentences, not sound bites or barked replies. I know what it's like to lose a presidential campaign or two or three. No matter how close the results (Gore-Lieberman) or wide the blowout (Walter Mondale-Geraldine Ferraro and Michael Dukakis-Lloyd Bentsen), you're in a state of emotional disrepair and in need of a home-cooked meal. Acknowledge your success. Think about the nonstop pace that you thrived in but would crush less hardy individuals. You lived for and met multiple deadlines. You essentially lived with the people you work with and, God bless you, you didn't kill them, though you probably picked up a few bad habits and gained more than a few unwanted pounds. Now you're sitting at that desk and trying to figure out what to do with everything you've accumulated throughout the quest to reach the city hall, the statehouse, Capitol Hill or the White House. No matter how hard you try to contain it, you're both angry and sad. Try not to vent and point fingers. It only creates wounds, mostly self-inflicted, and worse, the candidate you believed in and gave your all for doesn't deserve it. Just thinking back to 2000 still gets me upset. Once the Supreme Court ruled and Al Gore made his concession speech, I remember feeling lost and disillusioned. I was empty inside as if someone had used a vacuum cleaner and sucked out every bit of my passion for politics and public service. I had no idea what to do with my life. Nobody seemed interested in hiring me; the taint from losing closed every door on which I knocked. For a while, I was convinced I would never be accepted again as a political operative. I had no life beyond politics and no idea how to spend my days or evenings. I didn't have a dog back then. I have one now. It was hard listening to the opposition announce members of the transition team who had just spent months beating us over the head. Worse, it was hard to go back to a house I had not lived in for almost a year. In fact, I have not unpacked some boxes from my life in Tennessee. It's still too painful. I had no energy to start looking for work. I was obsessed with those chads: hanging, swinging and, my favorite, pregnant. Above all else, I did not want to quit fighting. I was angry over the election and the recount. Soon, I realized the world was going to move on, and I would be stuck in the past. The only people who understood my mood were former colleagues. Grieve. Mourn. Let it out. It's like the death of someone close to you, except there's no funeral to help bring closure, just more election analysis and pundits spewing out what you did wrong. Be gentle on yourself. It will take you weeks to readjust and for the world to appear normal. Let it be a period of self-reflection and trying to answer the unanswerable "what ifs." But then let it go. In a world of nonstop campaigning, the next season starts now. Give yourself a gift. Rent videos and catch up on the movies you missed. Don't read the front section of the newspaper -- they are full of the other campaign right now. Pick up a copy of People or US Weekly instead. Turn off cable and switch to the Sci Fi Channel -- snakes and flies are healthier than exit polls and demographic trend lines. Above all, call your family. Get back in touch with friends who don't do politics for a living. Remember why you made the decision to give up your life in the first place. And remember this -- you're one of the lucky few. You were on a team that made the effort. You fought the good fight. And you had a front-row seat to history. So forget wearing the loser label. The next team will snatch you up. Or you'll decide to find some other adventure that fulfills your passion. Either way, know your efforts were never in vain. Congratulations to all the team players, the winners and nonwinners who fought gallantly until the end. Take it from an old-timer who still loves politics: You will rise again to fight the next battle. So go get yourself some much needed rest and arise in a few weeks renewed with the spirit of making a difference by serving a cause greater than oneself. Your country needs you. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Donna Brazile.
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Donna Brazile says she knows what it's like to lose a political campaign .
She says campaigns are tough on your body, mind and spirit .
Brazile: Now's the time to acknowledge your success and get over losses .
She says the work campaign people do is vital and worth the effort .
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(CNN) -- One of three convicted killers who escaped from an Arizona prison was captured Sunday in Rifle, Colorado, and authorities are on the lookout for a silver Volkswagen Jetta the remaining escapees may be driving, according to corrections officials. Daniel Renwick, 36, was spotted driving a brown Chevy Blazer by a Rifle police officer who gave chase, Arizona Department of Corrections Director Charles Ryan told CNN Radio. Gunshots were exchanged, and Renwick was ultimately taken into custody. Renwick, who broke out of the Arizona State Prison-Kingman Friday night along with two others, was serving 22 years for second-degree murder. He is being held in Colorado, awaiting questioning by the U.S. Marshals Service. Ryan said the remaining escapees, identified as Tracy Province and John McCluskey, are believed to be driving a 2002 silver Jetta purchased Saturday in west Phoenix. "If anyone sees this silver, 4-door Jetta, we recommend they call 911," Ryan said. The men, who have been described as armed and dangerous, were discovered missing after the 9:45 p.m. count Friday at the privately-operated Kingman facility. The escapees cut a hole in the fence, authorities said. A helicopter and dogs began a search. "Precisely how they escaped is under investigation," Ryan said, noting some "operational security problems" at the prison. "Those are being evaluated and investigated as we speak," he added. Province and McCluskey are believed to be with a female accomplice who was on the visitation list for one of the inmates. After their escape, the inmates and the accomplice abducted two truck drivers on Interstate 40 outside of Kingman and hijacked their 18-wheeler, according to the Mohave County Sheriff's Department in Kingman. They released them and the rig five hours later in Flagstaff, about 135 miles to the east. Province, 42, was serving a life sentence for murder and armed robbery. McCluskey, 45, was serving 15 years for second-degree murder and other charges. The suspected accomplice was identified as 43-year-old Casslyn Mae Welch, who is 5 feet 3 inches tall and weighs 135 pounds with brown hair and green eyes. CNN Radio's Barbara Hall contributed to this report.
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NEW: Authorities are on the lookout for a silver Jetta the others may be driving .
NEW: Gunshots were exchanged with police during escapee's capture Sunday .
Daniel Renwick, serving 22 years for murder, was captured Sunday .
Police are on the hunt for the remaining two, considered armed and dangerous .
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By . Bianca London . Forget an Hermes Birkin or Mulberry Alexa, flamboyant artist Grayson Perry's arm candy of choice is far more daring. The English artist and CBE, known for his ceramic vases and cross-dressing, was spotted on Channel 4's Liberty of London documentary carrying his beloved 'Scrotal Sac'. The tote was designed by Grayson himself in the shape of a scrotum, before being moulded into a handbag by leather craftsman Andy Bates. World's oddest handbag? Grayson Perry has been sporting the 'Scrotal Sac' around London in recent months . The bag, which has toured Europe with Grayson, was made as a gift by Andy Bates from Hexham after he and Grayson met in 2008. Speaking to MailOnline about the intriguing design, which also has a frontal 'appendage' with a bell at its end, Andy said: 'I received an email from Grayson to which was attached a particular drawing; a drawing which was the potter's design for the 'Scrotal Sac'. I took a deep breath and the process of making began. Detail: A bell, supplied by Grayson, was added to the end of the appendage, which Andy says he gave a 'ceremonial and celebratory jingle of completion' 'It took months to construct the bag. 'Firstly I had to carve a wooden former and then soak hand-dyed, bark-tanned calfskin in water so that it became malleable and could be moulded around the oaken testicles, a technique which is centuries old. 'Upholstery nails had been driven in so that the details of the "pimples" could be brought out. 'The two halves of the bag were shaped then hand-stitched together using waxed, linen thread. 'Finally, . a bell, which had been supplied by Grayson himself, was added to the . end of the appendage and given a ceremonial and celebratory jingle of . completion.' The bag was dispatched to Grayson and he reportedly loved it. The 'Scrotal Sac' has since become a fixture on the arm of Grayson when in role as his alter ego, Clare. 'I . received enormous interest in the "Scrotal Sac" from around the world . but have mysteriously declined to make a second,' said Andy, who has . been shortlisted for the Craft Skills Awards 2013 and has been . commissioned by Bloomsbury to write the definitive book about leather. Intriguing design: The bag, which has toured Europe with Grayson, was made as a gift by designer-maker Andy Bates from Hexham after he and Grayson met in 2008 . Big fan: When the bag was dispatched to Grayson (L), he contacted Andy (R) to say he loved it .
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English artist and CBE designed and carries Scrotal Sac .
Created by designer Andy Bates .
Took months to construct .
Only one in existence and Andy doesn't want to replicate - despite requests .
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By . David Mccormack . and Associated Press Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 00:24 EST, 23 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 06:34 EST, 23 December 2013 . A mother whose 13-year-old daughter was declared brain dead after what should have been a routine tonsillectomy says she cannot bring herself to take her daughter off life support. Nailah Winkfield of Oakland, California, has pleaded for prayers and time to keep her daughter, Jahi McMath, on a ventilator past Monday, when a temporary restraining order barring a hospital from disconnecting life support expires. ‘They have been pressuring me to “pull the plug”,’ Winkfield wrote in an open letter released this weekend. ‘I can't. I won't. I can't let them kill my baby a second time.’ Loss: Jahi McMath, 13, suffered cardiac arrest after having her tonsils out and has been declared brain dead. A decision is expected on Monday regarding her future . ‘Despite what they say, she is alive. I can touch her, she is warm. She responds to my touch. Given time I know (God) will spark her brain awake.’ Children's Hospital of Oakland's responded in a statement that while it sympathizes with Winkfield's wishes, ‘it would be unfair to give false hope that Jahi will come back to life.’ Jahi was admitted to hospital on December 9 to undergoing a ‘simple procedure’ to remove her tonsil to help with her sleep apnea. But the girl suffered complications and began bleeding profusely from her nose and mouth for hours, Winkfield said. Devastated: Nailah Winkfield (center), mother of Jahi McMath pictured on Friday awaiting the verdict of a court decision about the future of her daughter . McMath then went into cardiac arrest, and was revived by doctors, only for them to declare that she was brain dead on December 12. The hospital statement contends the surgery was complicated, and that it was committed to fully investigating what caused ‘this catastrophic outcome.’ A judge ruled on Friday to keep Jahi on a ventilator and continue giving her intravenous fluids through to Monday, when a court-approved neurologist will examine the girl for any signs of brain activity. The family's attorney, Christopher Dolan, told Alameda County Superior Court Judge Evelio Grillo the family wanted independent tests because they do not believe the hospital's physicians are sufficiently independent. The hospital said in documents presented to the court on Friday that a staff neurologist and Jahi's attending physician conducted separated exams, both of which determined that Jahi's entire brain, including her brain stem, stopped functioning. Ruling: Nailah Winkfield's daughter will be evaluated by an independent doctor on Monday and then a decision on her future will be taken . ‘There is absolutely no medical possibility that (Jahi's) condition is reversible or that she will someday recover from death,’ declarations from the doctors said. ‘Thus, there is no medical justification to provide any further medical treatment whatsoever to (her).’ The family told ABC station KGO-TV in San Francisco they will hold a march and rally Monday at 9:30 a.m. PT outside the hospital. They said the rally will be peaceful and lawful. 'Jahi's favorite color is purple. So if you can come out wearing a purple shirt, it doesn't matter what shade it is. But if you have a purple shirt, please wear it and march with us Monday morning,' McMaths's uncle, Omari Sealey, said. Winkfield told KGO-TV on Friday she was grateful just to have three more days with her daughter. 'It is hard because I feel like I'm just on borrowed time with my daughter,' Winkfield said. 'I will fight for my daughter until I can't fight anymore and I don't know when a mother loses a fight for her children.' United front: Nailah Winkfield (center), Jahi's uncle, Omari Sealey (far left) and their attorney said they wanted to hospital to keep the girl on the ventilator indefinitely . After her daughter underwent a . supposedly routine tonsillectomy and was moved to a recovery room, . Nailah Winkfield began to fear something was going horribly wrong. Jahi was sitting up in bed, her hospital gown bloody, and holding a pink cup full of blood. 'Is this normal?' Winkfield repeatedly asked nurses. With . her family and hospital staff trying to help and comfort her, Jahi kept . bleeding profusely for the next few hours then went into cardiac . arrest, her mother said. In an interview at . Children's Hospital Oakland on Thursday night, Winkfield described the . nightmarish turn of events after her daughter underwent tonsil removal . surgery to help with her sleep apnea. She said that even before . the surgery, her daughter had expressed fears that she wouldn't wake up . after the operation. To everyone's relief, she appeared alert, was . talking and even ate a Popsicle afterward. Beloved: Jahi's mother Nailah Winkfield has said that she believes God will 'spark her brain awake' Apprehensive: Jahi was nervous about undergoing surgery but her mother assured her she'd be fine. As she was recovering, she was bleeding from the mouth and nose and suffered cardiac arrest . But about a half-hour . later, shortly after the girl was taken to the intensive care unit, she . began bleeding from her mouth and nose despite efforts by hospital staff . and her family. While the bleeding continued, Jahi wrote her . mother notes. In one, the girl asked to have her nose wiped because she . felt it running. Her mother said she didn't want to scare her daughter . by saying it was blood. 'My . daughter had actual clots sliding out of her mouth and they gave me a . cup and said, "Here, catch them with the cup so we can measure them,"' Winkfield told ABC 7. Family members said there were containers . of Jahi's blood in the room, and hospital staff members were providing . transfusions to counteract the blood loss. 'I don't know what a . tonsillectomy is supposed to look like after you have it, but that blood . was un-normal for anything,' Winkfield said. The family said hospital officials told them in a meeting Thursday that they want to take the girl off life support quickly. 'I just looked at the doctor to his face and I told him you better not touch her,' Winkfield recalled. The . family filed a request Friday for a temporary restraining order . prohibiting the hospital from taking Jahi off life support or any of her . other current treatment. Speaking to CNN's Piers Morgan Tuesday night, Nailah Winkfield said she believed her daughter could still wake up. 'I . don't want to take my daughter off life support because I love my . child,' an emotional Winkfield said. 'When I walked her into that . hospital, she was perfectly fine, there was nothing wrong with her. She . had no health problems. 'As long as she has a pulse, we want her on life support,' Sealey said. 'We want her to come home for Christmas. We want to give her presents. We want a chance for a Christmas miracle.' Investigation: Oakland Children's Hospital has said it will investigate what happened after the surgery .
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Jahi McMath, 13, went to have her tonsils out at Oakland Children's Hospital, California, on December 9 .
Afterwards she bled profusely from the nose and mouth, suffered cardiac arrest and was declared brain-dead .
Hospital told her heartbroken family that they would switch off her life support as she has been declared legally dead .
Girl's mother and uncle served hospital with cease and desist letter .
On Monday, an independent doctor will examine the girl and decide what happens next .
Her family are planning a peaceful protest outside the hospital on Monday morning .
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120cee0b73869b8106908fcb1efeecb12fa12340
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By . Jill Reilly . PUBLISHED: . 04:23 EST, 20 August 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 05:15 EST, 20 August 2012 . Lost time: Christina Corp lost 17 years of memories in the car crash . A young woman has spoken of the pain of not being able to remember the first 17 years of her life after a car crash wiped out her memory. Christina Corp, 25, lost memories of birthdays, Christmas, boyfriends and even her first kiss after the accident which left her with serious head and brain . injuries. In a 13-week coma, her family were told she would . die four times, but she defied doctors to survive. Tragically, Miss Corp's friend Vicky Waters was killed when the Ford Fiesta collided with a coach of schoolchildren on the A32, a winding road from Fareham to Alton. Miss Corp, 25, from Stubbington, Hampshire said: . 'It is upsetting to lose all those . childhood memories but I have lots of things to look forward to and I am . still alive which is a blessing. 'I know everyone's faces, their telephone numbers, how I know them but I had forgotten every single experience we had together. 'I cannot remember any birthdays or Christmases I have had. The family holiday memories or even my first kiss which is horrible. 'I have also lost memories of boyfriends and roles in school plays. Anything that happened in the first 17 years of my life is gone.' The impact of the crash affected one side of her face, with nerve endings, one eye and her jaw damaged. Miss Corp's parents Jackie and Danny kept a vigil by her bedside during her recovery in 2004. 'At that stage she wasn’t responding to pins in her fingers and toes, and we were told she had such brain damage that the only thing she’d ever be able to do is breathe for herself,' said Mrs Corp to the Portsmouth Anglican. Scene of smash: Her parents were told four times it was likely she would die after the horrific crash on the A32, a winding road from Fareham to Alton . Amnesia is the name given to a disturbance in the ability to recall stored memories. It is usually caused by disease or head injury, but in rare cases can occur apparently spontaneously. The memory loss associated with amnesia can include everything from a person's past or just portions of it. In most cases, it is a temporary condition, lasting from a few seconds to a few hours. But in severe cases, it can last months or even years. There are several different types of amnesia. Retrograde amnesia is an inability to remember any events that occurred before the accident or illness. Usually, the affected person cannot remember events shortly before their accident or illness at all, but their memories of the distant past are intact, and there is a gradient of memory loss between the two extremes. Retrograde amnesia often lasts for a year, before the patient starts to remember things. But in some cases where the trauma to the head has been severe, memory may never be recovered. 'We were told she’d be unlikely to . ever leave hospital. One consultant even said there was a point when . they might be asking to withdraw treatment. 'But . the prayer really worked. She didn’t get a serious infection, she . didn’t get bedsores, and she started to kick her legs around. We’d been . told she’d never come out of the coma, so that was exciting.' When Miss Corp eventually awoke she could remember loved ones, but could not recall the experiences they had together. She added: 'I woke up and could not remember what I had done with my family but remember them as people. It was very terrifying. 'I . went back to old holiday destinations to see if I could remember . anything but apart from some deja-vu I could not remember anything. Miss Corp knows that she got an A* for her English literature and language GCSEs. 'I still have trouble remember things now which is part of the after affects of my brain injuries. I can remember things but I will have some short-term memory loss now and again.' A talented musician and writer Miss Corp now helps other families whose loved ones are in comas, reassuring them to never give up hope. Miss Corp said: 'When I woke up they said I would never walk or talk. I would just breathe and be a permanent vegetable. They were a bit wrong. 'My mum and dad had faith in me and because of that faith that got me out of my coma I believe. 'I want to show people just how much a brain injured person can do. 'I had to relearn to walk and talk and do everything again. It was like being a newborn baby It is amazing I had pulled through and I am proud of myself.' The charity shop worker who will never get the memories back, also runs a music group for disabled people to help them on their road to recovery.
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Christina Corp, 25, suffered serious head and brain injuries when a car she was in collided with a bus - her friend was killed .
Her parents were told four times it was likely she would die .
Now runs a music group for disabled people to help them on their road to recovery .
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New Orleans, Louisiana (CNN) -- As oil again again flows freely, crews are working around the clock to replace a containment cap on the ruptured underwater well in the Gulf of Mexico, BP said Saturday. The company hopes to install a better-fitting one in the coming days, BP senior Vice President Kent Wells said. "We're on plan," he said hours after the old cap was removed. Live video showed robots in the process of removing six bolts from the apparatus so that the new cap can be positioned. The bolts may all be removed by Sunday. The old cap had been diverting about 15,000 barrels a day (630,000 gallons) to a ship. BP still is recovering an additional 8,000 to 9,000 barrels a day (336,000 to 378,000 gallons) through a line connected to another vessel, the Q4000. Wells said the sealing cap operation is expected to take four to seven days, with favorable weather helping the process along. In upcoming weeks, there will be an increase in the current oil containment work. A fleet of skimmers will help recover the oil now making its way to the surface. "As we start to ramp up the additional containment capacity, we should see less and less flow," Wells said. Wells said crews are in the final stages of hooking up the Helix Producer, another oil recovery vessel, to the well. The vessel is expected to begin collecting oil by Sunday and officials hope to reach full collection capacity of 20,000 to 25,000 barrels (840,000 to 1.5 million gallons) per day within three days. "We're in the final stages in doing the pressure testing" on the Helix Producer, Wells said. If successful, the effects of the containment cap operation could halt the oil gusher that started April 20 after a deadly explosion on the Deepwater Horizon rig in the Gulf of Mexico. Officials have said such a fix would be temporary, and the permanent solution would still be completion of a relief well. There are two relief wells under construction, with one expected to be completed in August. One could intercept the leaking well as early as the end of July. Over the next two to three weeks, 60,000 to 80,000 barrels (2.52 million to 3.36 million gallons) a day should be contained, Wells said. Scientists estimate that 35,000 to 60,000 barrels of oil are spewing daily from BP's breached Macondo well. The company also says the sealing cap work "is intended to run in parallel with the installation and start-up of the Helix Producer." BP says there will be a period of decreased oil and gas capture from the wellhead during the cap replacement. It said another recovery vessel, the Q4000, "should continue to capture and flare oil and gas." There will be other recovery vessels and skimmers deployed. "This can be done very effectively," Wells said. Wells also said there will be "significant measurement capability" added to the new cap so officials can get a good idea of the flow rate. BP said in a statement that the new cap "should improve containment efficiency during hurricane season by allowing shorter disconnect and reconnect times." Wells echoed much of what retired Coast Guard Adm. Thad Allen said Friday. Allen said he approved the cap-switch plan in order to take advantage of favorable weather predicted for coming days and because, once the switch is complete, the resulting capacity to contain oil "will be far greater than the capabilities we have achieved using current systems." Allen stressed that once the capping device is on, "we would get the most accurate flow rate to date," he said. Meanwhile, Allen on Saturday announced that Rear Adm. Paul Zukunft is scheduled to relieve Rear Adm. James Watson as the federal on-scene coordinator Monday. Zukunft, who has been in the region for several weeks overseeing strategic planning, is the Coast Guard's assistant commandant for marine safety, security and stewardship. Watson will return to his previous duties. CNN's Sanjay Gupta, Vivian Kuo and Aaron Cooper contributed to this report .
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NEW: Replacement process is "on plan," BP official says .
Old containment cap removed from Gulf well .
Switch will take 4 to 7 days during which oil will flow unimpeded .
Vessel may start picking up oil Sunday .
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By . Leon Watson . PUBLISHED: . 07:46 EST, 16 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 12:43 EST, 16 January 2014 . Bigfoot is the real deal and he's developed a taste for takeaway pizza, a Michigan man has claimed. Anthony Padilla, from Midland County, says he's been leaving boxes of pepperoni-topped pizza pies out for the mythical beast who's been gobbling them up near his home. Mr Padilla, who insists he's not crazy, claims he's seen the Sasquatch several times roaming the woods in central Michigan looking for food. Scroll down for video . 'Not mad': Anthony Padilla, from Midland County, Michigan, says he's been leaving boxes of pepperoni-topped pizza pies out for a Bigfoot . The Michigan State Police are refusing to investigate the sightings, but his local TV network TV5 decided to take a look. Mr Padilla told the station: 'At first, I just thought it was a huge man in a Ghillie suit [camouflage clothing]. So then, I look into his face, right dead in his eyes, and they were so red they looked like they were full of blood, like a man on his deathbed.' Mr Padillo says he's been trying to prove that Bigfoot exists for years. He cities his collection of evidence; items like footprints, broken branches, and even droppings. Mr Padilla said he's trying to catch the Sasquatch by putting food into pizza boxes. Mr Padilla told local TV news the beast has been feasting on pizzas at his property for years . Michigan State Police are refusing to investigate the sightings, but Mr Padilla's local TV network TV5 decided to take a look . He says in the morning he finds the boxes folded or rolled. He added Bigfoot likes also to eat Mexican or Chinese. Bigfoot researcher Matthew Smith Jr said: 'We look into investigations very carefully because sometimes people could be trying to pull a prank. 'Many people have claimed [that] a big hairy creature [ran] across the road, so there's [something] going on up there. Whether it's Bigfoot, I can't say.' 'I believe I can "out-Bigfoot" anyone on this Earth! It's like, I don't even have to try, he just gives it to me.'
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Anthony Padilla claims Sasquatch is living in woods in central Michigan .
He says he's been leaving out takeaways for the mythical beast to eat .
Mr Padilla insists he's not crazy and he's seen Sasquatch several times .
He added big hairy beast also likes to eat Mexican or Chinese .
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120e99ba911d0d54c6f94486143cc004d4727ce6
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Last week, President Obama came to my country, Tanzania. President Kikwete and our people received him with great pride, but it is unlikely Obama heard anything about our government's plan to give a great chunk of land that has been the Maasai tribe's home for millennia, to a hunting company from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The hunters want this land to kill our lions and leopards and this deal will take away 40% of our grasslands and forested mountains that we call home. It threatens the wildlife and the Maasai's very existence. We want Obama and the international community to know our story and help stop our eviction. Read also: Maasai fight government, game hunters for lands . These attempts to clean us out of our old homelands have been happening for decades. The British moved us 50 years ago from what is now the Serengeti park and subsequent governments have consistently restricted our grazing rights. A large amount of land next to our community near the Serengeti National Park has already been handed to the hunters from the UAE. We often see Arab royalty arriving in their jumbo jets and then driving around in jeeps shooting anything they see moving and they keep wanting more. The government uses our faces on tourism posters and brochures for Tanzania, yet President Kikwete has said that our way of life is a thing of the past and we should live in the modern world. But without our land and our traditions, what are we? Most people in Loliondo raise cows and goats to pay for food and education for our children. Without grazing lands, many Maasai men have felt pressured to move to the city to take jobs as security guards. The women are left behind to raise our children and grandchildren and despite their hardship they are fighting to preserve our way of life. Read more: Maasai boy scares off lions with flashy invention . This new threat of such a large-scale land clearance has gathered Tanzania's Maasai like never before. Thousands of our men, women and children have traveled for days to meet government officials to state our case. Three hundred Maasai women marched on the capital Dodoma to protest, and in May, all of our community elders camped outside the Prime Minister's office in the capital for three weeks, demanding the UAE deal be abandoned. We are sure our brothers and sisters across the world can help. After we started an international campaign with Avaaz more than 1.7 million people around the world joined our cause. Today we are at home in our lands but fear that tens of thousands of villagers in our community could soon be evicted. A commitment from Kikwete can easily save us from the terrible fate that has befallen so many great tribes of the world. We know that the battle for our lands will not be easy, but as long as the government knows that the world is watching we will be safe. With that kind of attention, we have hope that our ancient way of life on our traditional lands will yet survive in the 21st century.
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Tanzanian government threatening to evict Maasai from traditional land .
Maasai tribes in Loliondo campaigning to stay on land .
The campaign has been supported by more than 1.7 million people worldwide .
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By . Matt Blake . Fear: Aliaksandr Barankov fled to Ecuador after unearthing petroleum-smuggling ring involving senior officials of President Alexander Lukashenko's government, including relatives of the leader . A Belarusian dissident granted asylum in Ecuador has begged his South American safe haven not to send him home, claiming he will surely be killed for exposing government corruption. Aliaksandr Barankov fled to Ecuador after unearthing petroleum-smuggling ring involving senior . officials of President Alexander Lukashenko's government, including . relatives of the leader. But the former financial crimes investigator says he is in imminent danger of losing his political refugee status and being sent back to the former Soviet bloc nation whose president has been nicknamed 'Europe's last dictator.' His fate could be decided as early as . Tuesday, less than a week after Ecuador granted political asylum to . WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, painting itself a proud haven for the . politically persecuted. The Belarusian's case indicates that hospitality may be limited by geopolitics. Prosecutors . in Belarus accuse the 30-year-old Barankov of fraud and extortion. He . calls the charges bogus, retribution for his having exposed corruption . among some of President Alexander Lukashenko's closest politicians. Barankov . is backed by rights activists at home, where Lukashenko has ruled for . 18 years by fixing elections, quashing free speech, jailing dissidents . and keeping 80 percent of industry in state hands. 'Europe's last dictator': President Alexander Lukashenko has ruled Belarus for 18 years by fixing elections, quashing free speech, jailing dissidents and keeping 80 percent of industry in state hands . 'They . accuse me of fraud and corruption,' Barankov said by phone from prison . Friday. 'It's easy to accuse (someone) of this because the police, . courts and prosecutor's office are employees of the president and his . family.' Barankov arrived in Ecuador in August 2009 after fleeing the charges, which he said were filed after he uncovered the smuggling ring. Belarus has been trying to extradite him ever since. In 2010, when he overstayed his visa, he was imprisoned for 55 days but was freed after authorities granted him refugee status, finding merit in his claim of political persecution. Total power: Under President Rafael Correa, Ecuador has been deepening commercial and political ties with U.S. rivals including Iran, Russia and China. It will be up to him if Barankov will be extradited . Belarus continued to press for his extradition, but Judge Carlos Ramirez of Ecuador's highest court, the National Court of Justice, denied it in October 2011, finding the evidence of Barankov's alleged crimes inadequate. Then, on June 7, after a revised extradition request from Belarus, Barankov was arrested by 15 police officers who hauled him from his home in a middle-class neighborhood of northern Quito. Later that month, Lukashenko visited Ecuador for two days, signing agreements on trade, education, agriculture and the eventual exchange of diplomats with President Rafael Correa. A preliminary defense cooperation agreement was also signed. Under Correa, Ecuador has been deepening commercial and political ties with U.S. rivals including Iran, Russia and China. Help: His plea comes less than a week after Ecuador granted political asylum to WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange (pictured speaking from the Ecuadorian embassy on Sunday) 'Everything changed after Lukashenko came,' Barankov said by phone from Quito's cold, overcrowded century-old Prison No. 1. 'I want Ecuadoreans to open their eyes and see what's happening to me.' An official at the National Court of Justice said that Ramirez could rule as early as Tuesday on the new extradition request and that Barankov could lose despite his refugee status. It would then be up to Correa to decide whether he is extradited. A phone call to the presidential press office Monday seeking comment was not returned. Nor were calls to the Justice Ministry and Foreign Ministry seeking clarification for why the government was allowing the extradition to go forward. 'He cannot be condemned to death or to life in prison because there is a signed guarantee from the Belarusian government that assures us of this. The guarantee was delivered during Lukashenko's visit,' said the court official who spoke on condition of anonymity. The official was not authorized to make statements to the press. Barankov's Ecuadorean girlfriend, Mabel Andrade, told The Associated Press: 'We were more or less relaxed until President Lukashenko came. Immediately afterward, Ecuadorean authorities didn't want to renew his ID card and they wouldn't give us any explanation.' She said they had appealed to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, arguing a fear of torture or even death. Ecuadorean court records confirm that Barankov was a financial crimes investigator. In the Belarusian capital of Minsk, an Interior Ministry official said Barankov was a former police officer but refused to say what job or responsibilities he had. The official, who refused to be quoted by name, said Barankov was accused of summoning random people to his office, telling them they were being investigated and extorting bribes to close non-existent cases. The Ecuadorean court papers say he allegedly attempted to extort employees of Total Oil, demanding payments of up to $60,000 on at least eight occasions. Yelena Krasovskaya-Kasperovich from the Minsk-based human rights organization Platforma told the AP that Barankov asked for the group's help and that they had spoken to him several times via Skype. She said Barankov 'didn't say a word about the nature of the secrets he's in possession of.' He only said that the information he has is 'explosive' and concerns Belarusian senior officials, she said. 'The persistence with which Belarusian authorities are demanding Barankov's extradition is alarming,' Krasovskaya-Kasperovich said. 'This might be the proof that he does know Lukashenko's secrets.' 'In this case, it's very dangerous for him to be in Belarus,' she said.
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Aliaksandr Barankov fled to Ecuador after unearthing petroleum-smuggling ring involving senior politicians .
Some of the accused are at the top of President Alexander Lukashenko's government .
His plea comes less than a week after Ecuador granted political asylum to WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange .
But the former financial crimes investigator says Ecuador welcomed Lukashenko's recent visit sparking fears they have struck a deal .
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121020aa9ceeefb5c1c67327f5378cdffb429b93
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The Thai army declared martial law throughout the country Tuesday in a surprise move that an aide to the embattled Prime Minister said the government didn't know about beforehand. "They took this action unilaterally. The government is having a special meeting regarding this. We have to watch and see if the army chief honors his declaration of impartiality," the aide said, describing the situation as "half a coup d'etat." Lt. Gen. Nipat Thonglek told CNN the move was not a coup. "The Army aims to maintain peace, order and public safety for all groups and all parties," a ticker running on the army's television channel said. "People are urged not to panic, and can carry on their business as usual. Declaring martial law is not a coup d'etat." Martial law went into effect at 3 a.m. on Tuesday, the ticker said. All Thai TV stations are being guarded by the military, Thai public television announced, showing pictures of soldiers and armored vehicles taking positions outside broadcast facilities in the country's capital. In a statement read on Thai television, the military declared that all of the country's radio and television stations must suspend their normal programs "when it is needed." The dramatic announcements come days after the head of the army issued a stern warning after political violence had surged in the country's capital. Political tensions have been running high in Thailand. Supporters and opponents of the country's government have staged mass protests in recent days, and earlier this month a top court removed caretaker Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra from office, along with nine cabinet ministers. It's too soon to tell whether the military's declaration of martial law will ease tensions or heighten them, analysts said. Thitinan Pongsudhirak, a political science professor, described the situation as "very volatile." "This is a precarious time now for the army," he said. "They have to be even-handed." If the military appears to be favoring one side, he said, violence could escalate rather than cool down. "If it's seen as favoring one side or the other side, then we could see more violence and turmoil against the military," he said. Paul Quaglia, director at Bangkok-based risk assessment firm PQA Associates, described the situation as "martial law light." "Right now the military has deployed troops around key intersections of the city. Traffic is a real mess here at the moment, but there's no violence," he said. "I think what the military is trying to do with this...is to convince protesters to go home. They're trying to dial down the tensions here as well as preempt several large rallies and strikes that were scheduled for later this week." But what happens next will depend on how protesters react, he said. "The military is taking a step by step, gentle approach to see if they can get things to improve," Quaglia said. "If not, they'll of course have to ratchet up their actions." Nipat said the precise restrictions of martial law were being worked out. The government's "red shirt" support base, many of whom hail from the country's rural north and northeast, view Yingluck's ouster as a "judicial coup" and have been protesting what they consider an unfair bias by many of the country's institutions against their side. Anti-government protesters are seeking a new government -- but not through elections, which the opposition Democrat Party has boycotted, arguing the alleged corruption of their political rivals makes widespread reform necessary before any meaningful vote can be held. Increased government efforts to improve security are a positive step, Quaglia said. "That being said, martial law will not solve the political problems that continue to haunt this country," he said. "The differences are stark, and I don't think the military can step in and by force fix the political issues."
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Analyst: Military is trying to convince protesters to go home, "dial down the tensions"
Government aide calls the situation "half a coup d'etat," says military's action was unilateral .
Thailand's Army has declared martial law but stresses the move is not a coup .
Professor: The situation is "very volatile"
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1211385dcffb7b1ed3893df3ee3052db523f8c27
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Death rates in NHS hospitals are among the highest in the western world, shock figures revealed yesterday. British patients were found to be almost 50 per cent more likely to die from poor care than those in America. They have five times the chance of dying from pneumonia and twice the chance of being killed by blood poisoning. Experts say that, despite recent improvements, NHS death rates still outstrip those in many other European countries. British patients were found to be almost 50 per cent more likely to die from poor care than those in America. Pictured is a tribute wall in memory of patients who have died at Stafford Hospital . Figures obtained by Professor Brian Jarman, in an exclusive report for Channel 4 News, show that the death rates in English hospitals last year were 45 per cent higher than in America. Sir Brian, a globally-recognised expert on hospital performance, also calculated that in 2004 death rates for hospitals in England were 22.5 per cent higher than in six others in the western world including Canada and France. The latest figures are not yet available although Professor Jarman suspects death rates in England have fallen because care has substantially improved. ‘What I found was that the adjusted death rate in England was about 22 per cent higher than for the average of all the seven countries that I looked at and it was about 58 per cent higher than the best of the countries,’ he said. An investigation was launched following concerns about high death rates and poor care at the hospital run by Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust . ‘I expected us to do well and was very surprised we didn’t do well – but there is no means of denying the results as they are absolutely clear.’ ‘We should take notice of it and say there is a problem in the provision of health care in England.’ Earlier this year a report warned that hundreds of patients had died needlessly due to poor care at Mid Staffordshire NHS trust. But this was not an isolated case and a subsequent review led by the Sir Bruce Keogh, medical director of the NHS, found that thousands of patients had died unnecessarily at 14 other trusts through neglect. Ministers have since put 11 of these trusts into special measures including North Cumbria, Northern Lincolnshire and Goole, Tameside and Basildon and Thurrock. Hit squads have been sent in to make urgent improvements. Yesterday Sir Bruce said he would be holding urgent discussions with other officials about the data.‘I want our NHS to be based on evidence. I don’t want to disregard stuff that might be inconvenient or embarrassing,’ he said. ‘I want to use this kind of data to help inform how we can improve our NHS. ‘So what we need to do as clinical professionals in our NHS is concentrate on how we can improve that and I will be the first to bring this data to the attention of clinical leaders in this country to see how we can tackle this problem. ‘The fact is we have a health service that is admired around the world, founded on the cradle to grave principle. But the other fact is we still have too many patients dying in our hospitals when their relatives were expecting them to come home.’ Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt said: ‘This Government has shone an unprecedented spotlight on poor care through the Keogh review of 14 hospitals with persistently high rates, and taken tough action to tackle these problems by placing 11 hospitals in special measures. ‘Sadly, warnings about high death rates were ignored too frequently in the past. ‘Following the horrors of Mid Staffordshire, we have established a new rigorous inspection regime led by the Chief Inspector of Hospitals. ‘He will look at mortality data as well as issues of leadership and culture, and we will act quickly where problems are uncovered.’ Figures show that the death rates in English hospitals last year were 45 per cent higher than in America. File picture . Sir Brian pioneered the use of hospital standardised mortality ratios (HSMRs) as a way of measuring whether death rates are higher or lower than expected. They are adjusted for factors such as age and the severity of the patient’s illness. It was by using HSMRs that Professor Jarman was able to identify the high mortality rates at the Mid Staffs trust. He said one of the reasons that American hospitals do much better is because staff are actively encouraged to report mistakes – and whistleblowers are not persecuted as they sometimes are in the NHS. He said: ‘If you go to the States doctors can talk about problems, nurses can raise problems and listen to patient complaints. Hospitals were urged yesterday to ensure consultants work seven days a week. The Royal College of Physicians, which issued the call, also wants specialist doctors to travel to see elderly patients on wards. A patient with several illnesses such as angina, diabetes and dementia often has to travel to clinics dotted around their hospital. The Royal College also wants a chief of medicine to be appointed in every hospital to oversee the care of the elderly.
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Clinical care trails the rest of the Western World, it has emerged .
Britons have five times the chance of dying from pneumonia than U.S.
NHS death rates are much higher than many western European countries .
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1211f5077879ee46bb797e0b3f1254f40b77f563
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By . Alex Ward . PUBLISHED: . 10:02 EST, 19 September 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 04:07 EST, 20 September 2012 . A schoolboy has unwittingly racked up a £2,000 credit card bill playing an online game on his grandfather’s iPad. Six-year-old Will Smith was innocently playing the popular children’s video game Tiny Monsters until his grandfather Barry Slatter, 55, was contacted by the fraud squad. The family was unaware of little Will’s huge spending spree until his grandmother tried to use the credit card at Tesco, only to have it declined. Scroll down for video . Costly gaming: Six-year-old Will Smith played popular children's online game Tiny Monsters on his grandfather's iPad racking up a £2,000 credit card bill . When the fraud squad contacted Mr Slatter, of Redcar, North Yorkshire, he was horrified to discover the bill spent on the app. Tiny Monsters is a ‘breeding’ game where gamers collect and create monsters to fill their virtual island. While the game is free to download the app has 'premium currency' which gamers can buy using real money. According to the website of TinyCo, the game's creator: 'Premium Currency can be used on limited edition items, speeding up the game, and other extras.' Using his grandfather’s iTunes password, Will bought virtual food and coins costing up to £70 each while playing different levels on the game to reach the Dark Monster. Horrified: Grandfather Barry Slatter, left, was stunned when the fraud squad contacted him about the bill Will had incurred playing Tiny Monsters, pictured on iPad screen . Mr Slatter told The Mirror: ‘I must have synced my credit card up with the App Store and Will has just been pressing buttons buying baskets of food and coins for his monsters. ‘I can’t believe how easy it is for kids to buy things. Will’s only six.’ Mr Slatter said he explained the situation to Apple who agreed to a refund. Will’s mother Nicola, 32, said: ‘Will was really upset – he was about to reach Level 26 and fight the Dark Monster.’ To reach the Dark Monster: Will used Mr Slatter's iTunes password to buy virtual food and coins costing up to £70 each while playing . Play with 'real money': The game, Tiny Monsters, is free to download but 'premium currency' which buys game extras can be bought using real money . Earlier this year another six-year-old, Jake Sadler from Portsmouth, managed to spend £1,000 of his parent’s money buying 'pretend gold' to play the Zombie Takeover game - free to download - on his mother's iPad. Parents whose children have accidentally run up huge bills playing games on their iPhones could be in line for compensation from Apple . Similarly, his parents only became . aware of the charges when their bank’s fraud team contacted them over . concerns with 'unusual activity' on their account. Mother Gemma Sadler then discovered Jake had managed to input the password to their debit card. She . said: 'We had no idea Jake even knew our password or how he'd even got . onto our card details. But then it dawned on us that the game he was . playing is linked to our iTunes account and our card is on that.’ Parents . whose children have accidentally run up huge bills playing games on . their iPhones could be in line for compensation from Apple. Campaigners are awaiting the result of a U.S. court case in which a group of disgruntled parents are suing the company after their children’s innocent game playing ended up costing a fortune. They accuse Apple of enticing children to spend money on iTunes. If the parents are successful, it could open the door for legal actions worldwide. Apple, which is worth more than £311billion, has repeatedly been criticised for allowing children to spend hundreds of pounds on games using their parents’ iPhones.
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Will Smith, 6, spent the money playing an online game on grandfather Barry Slatter's iPad .
He used Mr Slatter's iTunes password to buy virtual tokens on the game .
Mr Slatter was unaware until the fraud squad contacted him about the bill .
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12131c3affb2a797d4e4a9b04b116086d3cc1d16
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Never fear the night of the living dead -- the Pentagon has got you covered. From responses to natural disasters to a catastrophic attack on the homeland, the U.S. military has a plan of action ready to go if either incident occurs. It has also devised an elaborate plan should a zombie apocalypse befall the country, according to a Defense Department document obtained by CNN. In an unclassified document titled "CONOP 8888," officials from U.S. Strategic Command used the specter of a planet-wide attack by the walking dead as a training template for how to plan for real-life, large-scale operations, emergencies and catastrophes. And the Pentagon says there's a reasonable explanation. "The document is identified as a training tool used in an in-house training exercise where students learn about the basic concepts of military plans and order development through a fictional training scenario," Navy Capt. Pamela Kunze, a spokeswoman for U.S. Strategic Command, told CNN. "This document is not a U.S. Strategic Command plan." Nevertheless, the preparation and thoroughness exhibited by the Pentagon for how to prepare for a scenario in which Americans are about to be overrun by flesh-eating invaders is quite impressive. Read the Pentagon's Zombie apocalypse plan . A wide variety of different zombies, each brandishing their own lethal threats, are possible to confront and should be planned for, according to the document. Zombie life forms "created via some form of occult experimentation in what might otherwise be referred to as 'evil magic,' to vegetarian zombies that pose no threat to humans due to their exclusive consumption of vegetation, to zombie life forms created after an organism is infected with a high dose of radiation are among the invaders the document outlines." Every phase of the operation from conducting general zombie awareness training, and recalling all military personnel to their duty stations, to deploying reconnaissance teams to ascertain the general safety of the environment to restoring civil authority after the zombie threat has been neutralized are discussed. And the rules of engagement with the zombies are clearly spelled out within the document. "The only assumed way to effectively cause causalities to the zombie ranks by tactical force is the concentration of all firepower to the head, specifically the brain," the plan reads. "The only way to ensure a zombie is 'dead' is to burn the zombie corpse." There are even contingency plans for how to deal with hospitals and other medical facilities infiltrated by zombies, and the possible deployment of remote controlled robots to man critical infrastructure points such as power stations if the zombie threat becomes too much. A chain of command from the President on down along with the roles to be played by the State Department and the intelligence community for dealing with the zombie apocalypse are clearly spelled out in the document. 'Walking Dead' finale: The biggest reveals . The training document was first reported by Foreign Policy magazine. This is also not the first time zombies have been used as the antagonist in U.S. government training operations. Both the Centers for Disease Control and the Department of Homeland Security have used the creatures as a vehicle for training their personnel in the past. Defense officials stress the report in no way signals an invasion of zombies is on the horizon. The only real purpose of the document was to practice how to execute a plan for handling something as large and serious a situation like flesh-eating beings trying to overrun the United States. And why zombies? Officials familiar with the planning of it say zombies were chosen precisely because of the outlandish nature of the attack premise. "Training examples for plans must accommodate the political fallout that occurs if the general public mistakenly believes that a fictional training scenario is actually a real plan," the document says. "Rather than risk such an outcome by teaching our augmentees using the fictional 'Tunisia' or 'Nigeria' scenarios used at (Joint Combined Warfighting School), we elected to use a completely impossible scenario that could never be mistaken as a real plan." So, practice for the when, where and how to plan for a more likely disaster scenario? Yes. But zombies of all stripes would be well advised to take note of this directive to Strategic Command personnel buried within the document. "Maintain emergency plans to employ nuclear weapons within (the continental United States) to eradicate zombie hordes."
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Pentagon planners draw up disaster plans to deal with different contingencies .
Planners created an attack by the walking dead to plan for large-scale operations .
Tactics include "concentration of all firepower to the head, specifically the brain"
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12137d72ef27ddc20d55cd083496ac5ccb528b7c
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(CNN) -- Sean Penn and Gus Van Sant have a proposition for us: a biopic dedicated to the memory of San Francisco activist and City Supervisor Harvey Milk, the first openly gay man to be elected to public office in California, who was murdered by a fellow supervisor in 1978. Sean Penn plays San Francisco City Supervisor Harvey Milk in "Milk," directed by Gus Van Sant. The subject may be a tricky sell, but the timing feels right -- a few weeks late to save Californians' same-sex marriage rights, admittedly, but the need to keep on fighting through adversity may be Milk's most important legacy. And "Milk" is a powerful movie that will stir more than a few hearts and minds. An audiotape Milk records "just in case" is screenwriter Dustin Lance Black's convenient structuring device, foregrounding the story's tragic outcome and allowing Milk to narrate his own life story. In this telling, it's a life that begins at 40 -- when he picks up Scott (James Franco), falls in love, comes out and drops out. The year is 1970, and San Francisco beckons. Their Castro Street camera store soon becomes a focal point for the booming gay community, and it's not long before Milk makes the first of several unsuccessful runs for district supervisor. Civic elections might seem like small beer, but the persecution that compelled Milk to run for office is no trivial matter. The gay rights movement's most critical accomplishment, the film suggests, is how it liberated gays to be themselves. As Milk tries to explain to his heterosexual colleague Dan White (Josh Brolin), this isn't about principles, it's about people's lives -- three of his lovers had threatened suicide. One of them, Jack Lira (Diego Luna), goes through with it. The political can't get more personal than that. Ironically, the devoutly "normal" White is the one who is truly messed up. Here's another irony: To earn the recognition and validation of the voters, Milk has to shed his reborn hippie uniform and ponytail, put on a suit and get a haircut. Making the same calculation, director Gus Van Sant has axed the long takes and experimentalism that made "Elephant" and "Paranoid Park" arresting but decidedly marginal experiences and turned in his most conventional movie since "Finding Forrester." In other words, he's playing it straight this time. The strategy is sound; the execution, nearly flawless. Van Sant captures the time and the place with unobtrusive precision, seamlessly mixing in reams of archival news reports. (She may not know it, but Anita Bryant has a co-starring role in this movie.) iReport.com: Share your reviews of 'Milk' Penn is studied and thoughtful, impassioned and immediately sympathetic as Milk. It's easy to see how he attracts so much support -- and how his drive and commitment don't leave enough time for a "real" life. When Penn smiles, there's always pain there -- it's almost a wince -- and he smiles a lot here. "Milk" may be a little too homogenized for some tastes. Like "Philadelphia" and "Brokeback Mountain," it's careful how it advances its agenda (and it does have one). But it's not just a single-issue movie. In its conviction that "change" isn't effected through rhetoric alone, but through the hard slog of campaign work, persuasion, inspiration, inclusion and good old, bad old politicking, "Milk" says something about how progress is achieved in America. In that respect, it evokes the best aspirations of the country -- and, for that matter, of filmmaking.
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"Milk" is a biography of openly gay San Francisco City Supervisor Harvey Milk .
Film works both as a subtle message film and as well-made movie .
Sean Penn gives excellent performance as Milk .
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12139194f418774921a1fb63e47263be50ec8f6a
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By . Rachel Quigley . PUBLISHED: . 08:08 EST, 9 May 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 16:20 EST, 9 May 2012 . Wednesday: Steve Powell arrives in court on the day of opening arguments in his voyeurism trial today . A judge barred 'sexually graphic and obsessive' diary entries belonging to the father-in-law of missing Utah mother Susan Powell from being used at his trial, ruling they were irrelevant and would likely make jurors biased. It was the second victory in as many days for Steven Powell, accused of 14 counts of voyeurism, after the same judge ruled on Monday that a pornography charge against him should be dropped because the 2,000 images of his neighbor's children taking a bath did not prove he influenced the conduct of the subject of the pictures. Yesterday, Judge Ronald E. Culpepper said eight journal entries, in which Steven Powell discussed his obsession with his daughter-in-law Susan and sexual fantasies, were not admissible. 'This is all about stalking Susan,' Judge Culpepper said of one entry . Powell wrote about taking photos of his daughter-in-law in the driveway. Samples from the entries included phrases like: 'Susan likes to be admired and I'm a voyeur', 'I'm a voyeur and Susan is an exhibitionist' and 'I've been going nuts and nearly out of control sexually my entire life,' He did allow one entry to be used where Powell wrote: 'I enjoy taking video shots of pretty girls in shorts and skirts. I sometimes use these images for self stimulation.' Steven Craig Powell faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison on each of 14 counts against him. If convicted of all counts, he could face up to 70 years in prison. A jury of 12 men and women and two alternates were finally selected out of 70, who had to answer questions about whether or not they were biased or had formed an opinion on the high-profile case. Center of the debate: Steve Powell kept pictures of Susan breastfeeding and changing and diary entries detailing he watched her often . Excerpts from Powell's diary read aloud in court . Defense attorney Travis Currie argued yesterday the excerpts should not be used because it takes away from the voyeurism aspects of the trial and puts the focus on Susan Powell and her husband Josh, who killed himself and the couple's two sons in a . fiery explosion in February at a house in Graham. Many believed the murder suicide was an admission of guilt in his wife's disappearance but Chuck and Judy Cox have always maintained that Steven Powell had something to do with their daughter's disappearance. Josh Powell was the only named person of interest in the case but was never charged or arrested. He claimed he took his young sons, then four and two, camping on the freezing winter night around 12.30am. When he came home, Susan was gone and he said she had run off with another man. Authorities searched the desert for twelve days in the area where Josh Powell said he went camping that night. At one point, they said they found a 'shallow grave' after cadaver dogs alerted them to the spot. But they found no human remains. Concerned: Susan's parents, Judy and Chuck Cox, hope that Steven Powell 'slips' and reveals something about the 2009 disappearance of their daughter . Defense attorney: Travis Currie, left, talks to Steve Powell, yesterday after a judge dismissed a child pornography charge against Powell, the father-in-law of missing Utah mother Susan Powell . Defense attorneys argued that even the mention of Susan Powell's name would prejudice a jury as it has been such a high-profile case, culminating in the murder of her sons earlier this year. It also emerged that a recording of . Powell sexually gratifying himself while looking at pictures of Susan . was discovered along with thousands of pictures that focused on her . behind and taken while she was breastfeeding. Pierce . County prosecutors agreed about the risk of prejudice, but said the . passages were crucial to prove that Steve Powell recorded the images, . and that he did it for his sexual gratification. Other categories of digital files . included close-ups of women putting groceries in their cars and others . titled, 'DMV girl', 'Tacoma Mall', 'gum-chewing cutie', and 'young teen . volleyball player'. Opening statements in the trial are likely to begin on Wednesday, assuming a jury is selected by then. Center of the debate: Steve Powell (left) previously claimed that he and Susan (right) were a perfect match because he was a voyeur and she enjoyed being watched . Susan Powell's parents Chuck and Judy . Cox watched anxiously as Powell was led into the courtroom yesterday . wearing handcuffs, a tie and gray suit. While more than 60 potential jurors . filled out questionnaires in another room, prosecutors and defense . attorneys discussed how much should be disclosed at the trial about . Steve Powell's apparent obsession with his son's wife. If convicted of the remaining 14 . charges, he would face a guideline sentence of about four years but the . state has alleged aggravating circumstances that could result in a . longer term. The thousands of images found by . investigators reportedly show a decade’s worth of his work, but in this . specific case they are expected to focus on the ones relating to the . years 2006 and 2007. They volunteered to redact her name, and the judge and defense counsel agreed with the suggestion. Revelations: Charlie and Braden were beginning to speak more and more about their mother, saying she was 'in the trunk' and then that she disappeared . Tragedy: Powell blew up his Washington home, pictured, killing himself and the two young boys when they were dropped off for a supervised visit . Happier times: Susan Powell's parents, Chuck and Judy Cox, were living with her sons Charlie (left) and Braden (right) at the time of the horrific incident . Remaining determined: Chuck (center) and Judy Cox (right) attended Steve Powell's hearing Monday . Susan Powell's disappearance took a . bizarre turn last summer as authorities from Washington and Utah stepped . up their efforts to solve the case. Steve Powell claimed on TV that he . and Susan Powell had a sexually charged relationship, something her . parents denied. Steve Powell's arrest prompted the state to take custody of Josh Powell's sons, who were living with their father at Steve Powell's home. The boys were turned over to Susan Powell's parents, prompting a custody fight that ended Feb. 5, when Josh Powell locked a social worker out of his home during what was supposed to be a supervised visit with his sons. He attacked Charlie and Braden, 7 and 5, with a hatchet, then started a fire that killed all three as the social worker called 911.
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Steven Powell kept pictures of Susan Powell breastfeeding and changing .
One count of child porn dismissed against him on Monday .
Judge ruled yesterday the diary entries were 'all about stalking Susan' and would bias a jury .
Charged with 14 counts of voyeurism .
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1213e2e65649aa2660923f35176599e617e605f1
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(CNN) -- Malawi's decision to reject pop star Madonna's adoption of a local child has reignited global debate about the ethics of international adoption. Author Melissa Fay Greene poses with her family, which includes biological and adopted children. Some international aid groups have praised the decision as best for the child, a 4-year-old girl named Chifundo James. "I think it really highlights the bigger picture that there are so many children living in poverty in Malawi, and while Madonna has good intentions ... children would be better off staying in their own communities whenever possible," said Karen Hansen-Kuhn, policy director for ActionAid USA, a development group that also works in Malawi. "We really need to stay focused on the needs of Malawi and of all the children there," she added. To get another perspective on the situation, CNN also talked with Melissa Fay Greene, an author and mother of five adopted children. Greene, who lives in Atlanta, Georgia, is the mother of four biological children, four children adopted from Ethiopia and one adopted child from Bulgaria. The following is an edited transcript of that conversation: . CNN: What's your initial reaction to the news that Madonna's adoption of a Malawian child has been rejected? Greene: Surprise. ... It was awfully tricky with Madonna's first adoption, when the child turned out to have devoted family members nearby. [The singer's adoption of a Malawian boy was finalized last year.] And if that's true with this child also, it seems a similar sticky situation. That's not the situation for the majority of orphanage children around the world, who don't have caring grandparents or aunts and uncles a short walk or bike ride away. I think it gives people an odd perspective on what international adoption can mean for children who don't have any support network outside the walls of an orphanage. You often hear attacks on international adoption as robbing a child of his or her culture, and that's both true and false. It's true that an internationally adopted child loses the rich background of history and religion and culture and language that the child was born into, but the cruel fact is that most children don't have access to the local, beautiful culture within an orphanage. ... There's a culture in orphanages that children are eager to escape from, and it's a culture of being reared as a group and not being doted upon by parents. For any child, that's the bottom line. The fact is that a human child wants that mommy or daddy or both. We're just wired to want that and to need that. And there's no way an institutional setting can give a human baby what the child needs. It's impossible. So you have to balance priorities. ... I think what some of the human rights group say is absolutely accurate: that international adoption does not begin to solve the problems of the world's orphaned children. It's truly not the answer. ... At the same time, international adoption, even though it doesn't solve the whole problem, it solves a problem for a few. I think it can be a brilliant solution to the problem of adults wanting a child in their lives or wanting more children in their lives and the problem of children who want parents in their lives. CNN: How is it different for a celebrity person seeking an [international] adoption than for yourself? Greene: We don't jet in, take a child and fly out with a child. For an average citizen trying to adopt, it takes most of a year. First of all, you work with a country that already has international adoption regulations in place, so you have a bureaucracy dealing with international adoption. A big part of that is determining that the child is a true orphan, that there is no one who can care for the child. And in the case of our older kids' adoptions, people had to come to court to testify that there was no one to take the children. So you don't run the risk of 'Oh, whoops, there's a grandmother down the street.' ... CNN: There's been some chatter today online questioning why a person wouldn't adopt an orphaned child from their own country. Greene: Within the adoption world, it's a non-issue. There are children all over the world who need families, and some find their children in Philadelphia, and some find their children in Bulgaria, you know? ... It's just outsiders who look on and judge disapprovingly, but then they don't go on to adopt the neighborhood children, right? ... There are many children who need help, and anyone who wants to reach out and adopt a child from foster care or from a Russian orphanage should reach out and do it. CNN: What has the experience been like for your own foster children? Greene: We're a white Jewish family in Atlanta, but Atlanta is a major city for eastern African immigrants. So our children are in touch with the Ethiopian diaspora, and they feel very much a part of that. Atlanta is full of Ethiopian restaurants, markets, festivals. For a while, my kids were playing on weekends with an Ethiopian soccer league. I have an Ethiopian baby sitter who speaks to them only in Amharic so they won't lose their language, and we always have Ethiopian food here. Two years ago, we went back to Ethiopia with the kids and had a big reunion for one of my sons and his extended family ... We just consider ourselves sort of part of this amazing bicontinental family. CNN: The first time you adopted internationally, can you tell me what your ethical considerations were and how you worked through that personally? Greene: Our first adoption was of a boy in rural Bulgaria. An incredibly poor orphanage. The kids were hungry, thirsty, no education. I first met our son, Jesse, when he was 4. He was 4 years old, and he did not know what his own name was ... When he first came, he was just so anxious about food. When he would wake up, he was just shaking, wondering if there was going to be enough food. So I started waking him up with food. He had issues with water. He wasn't sure if there was going to be enough water to drink, so I bought him a little canteen so he could wear his water all of the time. Do I have ethical issues about taking him out of that orphanage? I don't. CNN: Is there anything else you wanted to add? Greene: I admire Madonna. And I don't understand why everyone attacks Madonna. I think that she is in part trying to raise the world's consciousness about the African orphan crisis. You know, 95 percent of the children orphaned by AIDS [globally] are in sub-Saharan Africa. You don't hear world leaders talking about it. Where is the global outrage? ... So, into the breach steps a celebrity. But don't attack her for it, you know. Maybe her methods are not what ours would be, but how many of us are Madonna? But at least she is out there; she's creating a school. Obviously, she's fallen in love with the Malawian children to such an extent she wants to make some of them her own. And I think that it's great. I just don't understand why the world's attacking her. Let other people step forth and do something. At least she's trying. That's my feeling.
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Malawian judge rejects Madonna's request to adopt a 4-year-old girl .
Move reignites debate about the ethics of international adoption .
Some aid groups say children are best left in their home countries .
A mother of 5 adopted kids says adoption can be a "brilliant solution" for some .
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By . Simon Peach, Press Association . Luke Shaw became the youngest player to feature at this World Cup by starting England's draw with Costa Rica - an experience he described as 'unbelievable', albeit one tinged with the disappointment of their early exit. The 18-year-old left-back is one of the hottest prospects in world football, with Manchester United pushing to take him from Southampton this summer. That deal could reportedly see Shaw become the most expensive teenager of all-time - a lofty price tag which comes thanks to his fine performances for club and now country. Proud moment: Luke Shaw made his World Cup bow for England against Costa Rica . Engine: The full-back was one of England's more impressive performers during the goalless draw . The full-back made his first competitive appearance for England on Tuesday and impressed in the 0-0 draw with Costa Rica, in the process becoming the second youngest player to represent England at a World Cup after Michael Owen. 'It was unbelievable to play in a World Cup game - the biggest stage in football,' Shaw, who turns 19 on July 12, said. 'It is something I will learn from but, on the other side, I am devastated we didn't get the win. 'We created a lot of chances - that is something that happened in the other two games we played. 'We created a lot of chances but we have just been a bit unfortunate not to put them away. 'Whether you play or not, you gain massive experience. 'In training, you are training with world-class players day in, day out. And it is something that you will learn from. 'Even sitting on the bench, you see what it is like, you see how everything is and you take in the atmosphere.' Young Lions: Shaw and team-mate Jack Wilshere are two of England's big hopes for the future . Wise words: Shaw sought advice from experienced team-mate Frank Lampard before the game . VIDEO England have bright future - Juninho . Shaw has taken to the pressures of international football impressively, with his performance against Costa Rica one which belied his tender years. 'I've had that a lot but I just focus on my main game and what I do for my club," the Saints left-back said when his on-field maturity was brought up. 'I spoke to Frank Lampard before the game and he just said 'do what you do for your club'. I took that on board and tried to play my normal game. 'I was happy [with my performance] but it is not just about me - it is about the team and unfortunately we didn't get the result I wanted. 'To be going home this early is devastating. I just want to thank all the fans out there. They were unbelievable.' Shaw will no doubt get many more chances to play in front of those England fans, but which club supporters will be cheering him on yet remains to be seen. The teenager was asked about his ambitions after the match but did not mention his club future, simply saying: '[My ambitions are] just to keep pushing myself, go back fit and ready in pre-season and keep trying to improve my game and look forward to the friendly in September.'
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Shaw savours World Cup debut despite it being tinged with disappointment .
Made competitive international bow in goalless draw against Costa Rica .
18-year-old is currently the youngest player to feature in Brazil .
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Joshua Waddington, 21, started a brawl at his sister's wedding, after attacking a couple who were on a romantic break at the same venue . A wedding at a historic country hotel descended into chaos after the groom and his new brother-in-law started a fight with a couple who were staying at the same venue. Jessica Franklin and her husband Ian were celebrating their marriage with friends and family at Bosworth Hall Hotel, Leicestershire, in December last year when the brawl broke out. The drama unfolded after the bride's 21-year-old brother Joshua Waddingham launched an attack on Rebecca Rankin and her fiancé Paul Gurney, who were enjoying a romantic mini-break at the same Grade II listed hotel. Leicester Crown Court heard how the bride desperately tried to pull her loved ones from the brawl as Waddingham and Franklin, 31, began assaulting Mr Gurney. Wedding guests James Sharman, 27, and his 21-year-old wife, Chloe, also joined in with the attack. The court heard how, as the group beat Mr Gurney, Ms Rankin stepped in to protect her fiancé. But Ms Rankin was hit twice by Waddingham, who later kicked her in the head as she fell to the ground. She suffered a bloody nose and black eyes while Mr Gurney sustained a broken ankle, which required two operations. He was unable to walk for six weeks. Waddingham, said to have taken the lead in the attack, was given a two-year jail sentence, suspended for two years. He admitted causing grievous bodily harm and actual bodily harm when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court. He was also given 200 hours of unpaid work and ordered to pay £1,000 compensation to Mr Gurney and £250 to Ms Rankin. Judge Nicholas Dean QC said: 'This was an utterly disgraceful episode on what should have been a day of happiness for everyone involved.' Prosecutor Sarah Lloyd told the court how the 'atmosphere changed' in the bar of the 17th-century hotel when the victims had a disagreement with wedding guests. Mr Gurney suffered a cut ear in a minor tussle in the toilets before trouble brewed again. He threw a table, which did not hit anyone, 'to protect himself', the court was told. Miss Lloyd said: 'Waddingham punched at Paul Gurney, who fell to the floor. Ian Franklin and James Sharman became involved, kicking and punching him to his head and body as he lay on the floor.' Ms Rankin then intervened in the scuffle, shouting, 'Are you going to hit me now?', the court heard. Miss Lloyd said: 'Waddingham punched her at least twice to the face in quick succession, causing her to fall, where he hit her again and kicked her head. 'As both complainants were laid out on the floor, Chloe Sharman kicked in the direction of their heads on three occasions as the bride attempted to pull the defendants away.' The mayhem took place during a wedding at the Grade II listed mansion Bosworth Hall Hotel, Leicestershire . The three men admitted inflicting grievous bodily harm on Mr Gurney, while Ms Sharman admitted affray. Franklin and James Sharman were both given 12-month jail sentences, suspended for two years, with 150 hours of unpaid work. Each must pay £750 compensation to Mr Gurney. Chloe Sharman was sentenced to a 12-month community order with 100 hours of unpaid work. Judge Dean said to the defendants: 'It may be Mr Gurney and, to an extent, Miss Rankin contributed to what happened, but to a much lesser extent than you.' Gareth Weetman, mitigating for Waddingham, said: 'He's genuinely ashamed. It's unclear who started the second flashpoint - there was aggression on both sides.' Rachel Darby, for Franklin, said: 'It was a combination of drink and emotion. He had a natural desire to protect his wife on her wedding day.' Bosworth Hall Hotel and Spa is set in the Warwickshire countryside and dates back from the 17th century. The Grade II listed building is set in landscaped gardens, and its luxurious rooms can fetch hundreds of pounds a night .
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Jessica and Ian Franklin had their wedding at Bosworth Hall Hotel, Leics .
Bride's brother Joshua Waddingham, 21, attacked fellow hotel guests .
Rebecca Rankin was kicked in the head as she tried to protect her fiancé .
But Paul Gurney was left with broken ankle and could not walk for 6 weeks .
Bride tried to break up brawl as her new husband and two guests joined in .
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From bunnies to fluffy baby chicks, Easter is synonymous with all things cute. But while chocolate Easter eggs are a relatively modern phenomenon, as these stunning vintage cards reveal, an appreciation for all things adorable is not. The Easter cards, which date from the early years of the 20th century, are festooned with delicately drawn rabbits, multicoloured chickens and rosy-cheeked cherubs galore. Others feature traditional Spring motifs such as daffodils and chicks, while more still include vividly coloured Easter eggs - not all of which are of the chocolate variety. Colourful chicks: This vintage Easter card featuring a country scene and five fluffy chicks would have certainly warmed the heart of its lucky recipient . Cracking: An rosy-faced cherub crawls out of an Easter Egg in this eye-catching card. Sadly, little angels such as this one are rarely spotted on modern cards . They blight the land and have caused chaos on farms, so it's no wonder Australians have chosen to swap bunnies for bilbies. First introduced in 1968, the Easter Bilby comes in chocolate form and decorates festive packaging. Originally intended to raise awareness of the endangered marsupial, bilbies are a firm favourte of Australian children come Easter. Although the origins of Easter are firmly rooted in Christianity, not every creature to appear on the cards can say the same. The Easter Bunny, for example, was associated with the Saxon goddess Ēostre and has its roots in pre-Christian festivities laid on to welcome the Spring Equinox. The exchange of Easter eggs also pre-dates Christianity, with elaborately decorated ostrich eggs discovered in 60,000-year-old African burial sites while 5000-year-old eggs made from gold and silver unearthed in the graves of ancient Sumerians and Egyptians. In Greece, the only eggs available are red-painted chicken eggs, some of which also bear a gold cross, and commemorate the early Christians of Mesopotamia who dyed eggs blood red to mark Jesus' sacrifice. But eggs and rabbits aren't the only way to celebrate Easter. Around the world, a variety of different customs have been adopted to mark the big day, with everything from whipping to iguana suppers included. In Colombia, the traditional Easter lunch includes roasted iguana and turtles, while women in Hungary risk being splashed with lucky water as they celebrate the big day. Easter Greetings: A charming Easter postcard showing an idyllic countryside farmhouse, which three adorable chicks and their mother appear intent on reaching . Traditional: The image of three angels holding an Easter Greetings banner is a much more traditional card that reflects the religious roots of the festival . Vintage: A pair of traditional Bavarian postcards dating from 1912 and featuring a pair of little girls enjoying their Easter Eggs . Other unusual traditions include a fertility ritual unique to the Czech Republic and Slovakia, which sees women submit to being whipped with willow switches in the belief it makes them more beautiful and promotes fertility. An altogether more British tradition is that of the hot cross bun; a part of national life for more than two millennia and which, according to Anglo-Saxon chronicler, Bede, is linked to the goddess, Ēostre - the deity who also gave Easter its name. Once a year-round treat, in 1592 the London Clerk of Markets proclaimed that the buns could only be eaten on Good Friday, at Christmas and at funerals and their consumption was restricted further by James I. Despite his best efforts, the bun remains popular today. Thought to bring good luck, according to traditional superstition, the bun should be kissed before being eaten and if shared with a friend, will cement the relationship for the year to come. Bog off bunny! While Easter Bunnies such as this vintage example reign supreme in Europe and the USA, Australia has swapped the rabbit for the native bilby (above) Cute: Friends and relatives would have spread Easter joy by sending cards such as this hilarious scene of a driving coach steered by chicks and pulled by bunnines . Sweet: Estimated to date from the first decade of the 20th century, this card is less colourful than others but nods to the long history of rabbits and Easter . Charming: One of the earliest cards in this collection, this period piece dates back to 1890 and combines spring flowers, the Easter egg and the Easter bunny . Feast: Two fluffy (and beautifully dressed)friends munch their way through their own tasty-looking Easter feast in this late 19th century greeting card .
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Earliest examples date from late 19th century and reveal that daffodils, chicks and rabbits have always been popular .
Others focus on traditional religious scenes with the Easter message carried by rosy-cheeked cherubs and angels .
The Easter Bunny is a popular choice for cards, although Australians have traded the bunny for a native bilby .
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More than two decades have passed since her Dallas heyday as Sue Ellen. And now aged 74, time appears not to have diminished Linda Gray's good looks nor her joie de vivre. The actress, who portrayed an alcoholic wife of devious oilman JR Ewing in the BBC series, prompted a flurry of compliments from the Loose Women panellists as she took her seat at the coffee table of the popular lunchtime ITV show yesterday. Scroll down for video . Linda Gray appeared on Loose Women on ITV yesterday and could easily pass for a woman in her 40s . The former model, pictured, appeared on the 1980s hit TV soap opera Dallas . Miss Gray, who played Sue Ellen in the show attributes her good looks to clean living and avoiding fad diets . Miss Gray, who could easily pass for a woman in her 40s, initially laughed off the questions asking her for the secret behind her glossy hair and youthful skin but later joked: 'I've had a facelift.' The star, who is set to make her pantomime debut as the Fairy Godmother in New Wimbledon Theatre's Cinderella, has often credited her healthy lifestyle for helping her maintain her beauty and slender figure. She confirmed on the show that she walks most days and in the past has said: 'I don't do fad things or diets – they don't work. If you have a -delicious piece of bread and you want it, then have it. 'But don't have it every day. I love dark chocolate but I will have a piece just occasionally. 'It is not about being thin. It is about staying healthy and fit. I need to live a long time to fulfil all the things I want to do. I want to be walking around at 90.' Miss Gray, a mother of two, won numerous awards for playing JR Ewing's long-suffering wife Sue Ellen in the American hit soap Dallas from 1978 to 1991 which was shown in Britain by the BBC. The former model reprised the role in a new series of the much-loved American drama in 2011 but the show was axed once more earlier this year. Miss Gray, right, played JR Ewing's long-suffering wife opposite Larry Hagman, left .
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Linda Gray told the Loose Women yesterday that she avoids fad diets .
The former model, 74, admitted on the show that she has had a face lift .
She played JR Ewing's long-suffering wife Sue Ellen in Dallas in the 1980s .
Miss Gray said she still wanted to be walking around at the age of 90 .
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12159fb14e69428182105ac853fc415fe1dbf197
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By . Andy Dolan and Ryan Kisiel . UPDATED: . 17:49 EST, 11 October 2011 . Joanna Yeates suffered 43 injuries in a prolonged ‘violent struggle’ as she fought for her life, a jury heard yesterday. Marks on the 25-year-old’s body were said to be consistent with her being pinned down and strangled with both hands by her 6ft 4in neighbour Vincent Tabak. Tabak admits the manslaughter of Miss Yeates but denies her murder. Yesterday, on the second day of his murder trial, the jury at Bristol Crown Court heard described in harrowing detail the final moments of the landscape architect’s life. Agonising death: Joanna Yeates (left) had . suffered 43 separate injuries, the jury was told. Vincent Tabak (right) has admitted manslaughter but denies her murder . DNA evidence: Police found traces of Miss Yeates's body in Tabak's car . Nigel Lickley, prosecuting, said that . on December 17 last year Dutch engineer Tabak pinned down 5ft 4in Miss . Yeates by her wrists as he used his height advantage to overpower his . neighbour. ‘Her neck was held for long enough and . hard enough to kill her,’ the QC said. ‘There was a violent struggle by . Miss Yeates to survive. ‘Death . was not instantaneous. It took sufficient force to kill her. There was . no sign of a use of a ligature. He might have let go but he did not. He . knew that Miss Yeates was in pain and struggling to breathe. Despite . that Vincent Tabak continued to hold and squeeze her neck to kill her.’ Mr . Lickley added that a fracture to her nose and bruising to her head . ‘could have been as a result of a forcible contact with the floor or . other object’. Home Office pathologist Dr Russell Delaney concluded Miss . Yeates died of compression of the neck, probably using two hands. The . jury also heard that when Miss Yeates’s body was found eight days later . on Christmas Day, covered by snow beside a country lane, her T-shirt . and bra had been pushed up to partially expose her right breast. Tabak’s . DNA was later discovered on her chest, while police also uncovered . clothing fibres and blood spots linking Miss Yeates to his silver . Renault Megane car. The . 33-year-old university graduate is said to have killed his next-door . neighbour within minutes of her returning to the garden flat she shared . with boyfriend Greg Reardon, 28, in Clifton, Bristol. Yet . he maintained throughout his police interviews that he played no part . in her death. The court heard that when he was first arrested in . January, Tabak tried to explain away incriminating forensic evidence by . suggesting lab workers who processed the DNA material were corrupt. But less than three weeks later, he is said to have confided to a prison chaplain that he had news which would ‘shock’ him. Scroll down for CCTV footage of Tabak in Asda . Vincent Tabak walks through the aisles of Asda buying crisps, beer and rock salt . CCTV footage shows Tabak casually walking into the supermarket while it is alleged that Miss Yeates's body was in the boot of his car . Mr . Lickley said Tabak told Peter Brotherton, a volunteer in the prison . where he was on remand, that he would plead guilty ‘for the crime that I . have done’. When questioned further, he confirmed he was talking about . ‘the young lady in Bristol’. He eventually pleaded guilty to Miss Yeates’s manslaughter three months later. Mr . Lickley said that during a statement Tabak gave after his arrest in . January, he placed himself in his victim’s flat, saying he wandered into . the entrance to speak to his landlord, Christopher Jefferies, who also . owned Miss Yeates’s accommodation. Clue: In the days and weeks after Joanna's murder, Tabak followed the police website for news of the case . He . also told officers he might have eaten a pizza on the night of the . murder. The Tesco pizza Miss Yeates bought just before she died has . never been found and scientists have determined that she didn’t eat it . herself. The court had . previously heard Tabak also told police Mr Jefferies had a habit of . entering his flat without permission and had offered police potentially . incriminating evidence about his landlord’s car in a bid to throw them . off his scent. At the time, Mr Jefferies was under arrest in connection with the murder, although he was later cleared of involvement. Mr . Lickley told the jury that by admitting manslaughter, Tabak ‘accepts he . unlawfully killed’ Miss Yeates. The QC said that what the jury had to . consider was his state of mind when he killed her. He . did not lose control, the prosecution suggested, but ‘chose to continue . until she was dead’. ‘He didn’t panic… he was seen on film making . decisions and beginning to cover his tracks,’ Mr Lickley said. Tabak . ‘wanted and intended’ to kill her ‘and it is our case that he is guilty . of murder’, he added. Miss . Yeates’s parents, David and Teresa, attended the first day of the trial . but were absent yesterday as forensic evidence linking Tabak to their . daughter was outlined. The court heard that the DNA found on Miss . Yeates’s chest was one million times more likely to belong to the . defendant than any other unknown individual. Tabak’s DNA was also found . on the back of her jeans, suggesting he had carried her under the knees. Mr Lickley had already . told the court that after ‘squeezing the life out’ of Miss Yeates, Tabak . drove to Asda – where CCTV showed him buying beer, crisps and rock salt . – with her body in the boot of his car. He then allegedly dumped her . body later that night in Longwood Lane – three miles from Miss Yeates’s . flat – and returned to Bristol to collect his girlfriend, Tanja Morson, . 35, from an office Christmas party. While at Asda, the court heard he sent his girlfriend a text saying he was ‘bored’. Tabak . told police that before heading to the superstore, he had driven his . car from the road to his driveway to warm up the engine. Mr . Lickley told the jury that moving the car ‘to the side of the house may . have been the opportunity to place Miss Yeates into the boot’. In the days and weeks after the murder, Tabak avidly followed the police website for news of the case. The . prosecution also alleges that he described the killer as a ‘detached, . crazy person who was able to carry on with life’ at a dinner party the . following month. Mr Lickley said he had been describing himself. The trial continues. Struggle for survival: The injuries suffered by Joanna Yeates was revealed to the jury . An examination of Joanna Yeates’s body revealed the shocking catalogue of injuries from her struggle for survival. Home Office pathologist Russell Delaney found bruises and grazes on her neck and chin, Bristol Crown Court heard. His post-mortem examination also uncovered haemorrhages, including under her eyelids, while a blood clot in her nose was likely to have been a result of the compression to her neck. Marks on her wrists suggested she had been pinned down, while the pathologist also found a small fracture at the base of her nose. The court heard blood may have dislodged from her nose and dripped on to the stone wall close to where her body was discovered as Vincent Tabak tried in vain to lift her body over the wall. In addition to the fractured nose, there were 12 injuries to Miss Yeates’s head and neck, three to her torso, 12 to her right arm, 11 to her left arm, one on her right leg and three on her left leg. A later internal examination found further bruising beneath the skin and possible injury to her voice box. ‘The overall pattern of injuries indicate an episode of manual compression of the neck that is known as strangulation,’ prosecutor Nigel Lickley QC told the jury. ‘Quite apart from the fear an attack might cause, direct compression will be uncomfortable and painful,’ Mr Lickley added. ‘Miss Yeates would have found it difficult to breathe and you would have expected her to resist and struggle.’ In court: An artist's impression of Vincent Tabak, who is on trial for the murder of Joanna Yeates - he is alleged to have texted his girlfriend saying he was 'bored' just hours after the killing . Head in hands: Tabak depicted in the dock yesterday listening to the prosecution's opening statement . Crime scene: Miss Yeates was killed at her flat, left, and her body was hidden in Longwood Lane, right . Sorry we are unable to accept comments for legal reasons.
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Joanna Yeates was 'pinned to the floor by her wrists' during attack .
Vincent Tabak 'strangled her with his bare hands before dumping body'
He 'wanted to and intended to kill Miss Yeates', say prosecution .
Tabak Googled dead bodies to see how fast they decompose .
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By . Rob Davies for the Daily Mail . Millions of cat allergy sufferers know the symptoms only too well – red, itchy eyes, uncontrollable sneezes, coughing fits, even a nasty rash. But help could soon be at hand thanks to a British company working on a vaccine it says can render even the fluffiest feline totally harmless. Sheffield-based Benchmark says its revolutionary injection can ‘neutralise’ the cat itself, rather than forcing humans to resort to costly treatments that often have limited effect. A British company is working on a vaccine which it says can render even the fluffiest feline totally harmless to allergy sufferers . It works by attacking a protein carried in cats’ saliva, urine and sweat that is the most common cause of cat allergies. More than 725m people, about a tenth of the global population, are thought to be allergic to cats but options for alleviating the symptoms are limited. Sufferers can take anti-histamines or have regular injections designed to stimulate the body’s natural immune system. Some websites recommend using air purifiers or even bathing your cat as often as possible, which can prove difficult if the animal doesn’t cooperate. The new vaccine, dubbed HypoCat, works by attacking the Fel d 1 protein, the main allergen carried by cats and kittens. Fel d 1, present in saliva, urine and sweat, is spread all over the cat’s fur when it licks itself clean. The protein then attaches itself to cat dander, tiny particles of dry skin one tenth the size of a dust mite. As cats prowl their territory, they leave dander on surfaces such as bedding and sofas, wreaking havoc on allergy sufferers whose symptoms are triggered by the protein. But Benchmark claims that HypoCat can ‘neutralise’ the Fel d 1 protein altogether, without harming the cat. It is spending up to £8million to commercialise research by Swiss firm HypoPet, based at the University of Zurich, in the hope of making HypoCat available through vets within three or four years. Maureen Jenkins, clinical director of Allergy UK, said the vaccine could make a huge difference to allergy suffereds in the UK, which hosts an army of around 8.5million cats. ‘It’s a major problem in this country so this could be very significant,’ she said. ‘Some people avoid cats like the plague and when they are then exposed they could have a very serious reaction.’ ‘It’s also something that can cause chronic ongoing systems and a lot of people don’t realise what the cause is.’ Benchmark said it believes that HypoCat could open up a new market for cat vaccinations worth as much as £250million. Life sciences analysts at City of London firm Cenkos Securities said: ‘There is a large potential market for this vaccine.’ ‘We believe that this approach will lead to a relatively straightforward solution for cat owners and the population that suffers from cat allergies,’ they added.
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Sheffield-based Benchmark says its injection can ‘neutralise’ cat itself .
It works by attacking a protein carried in cats’ saliva, urine and sweat .
More than 725m people, about a tenth .
of the global population, are thought to be allergic to cats but options .
for alleviating the symptoms are limited .
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1216a9252e0aa66949165bc4766cfe495da5fe80
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Seventeen past and present Cronulla rugby league players have reportedly been issued with show-cause notices after meeting with the NRL and anti-doping authority. The Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) boss Ben McDevitt agreed to 17 doping notices on Tuesday night, according to News Corp Australia. The notices, which follow ASADA's anti-doping investigation into the Cronulla Sharks' 2011 supplements program, were distributed to the lawyers of players on Wednesday and signals the authority's intent to charge players. Scroll down for video . Cronulla Sharks player Wade Graham left his lawyer's office on Wednesday after reportedly being issued with a show-cause notice from the anti-doping authority . Cronulla Sharks player Anthony Tupou refused to comment as he left his lawyer in Sydney. He was one of the 17 past and present players to be given doping notices over the club's 2011 supplements program . It's believed they varied in severity, with potential bans ranging between six months and two years. Players have been given 10 days to respond and may choose to challenge the show-cause notices in the Administrative Appeals Tribunal or the Federal Court. The Sharks skipper, Paul Gallen, was one of 17 past and present players involved in the club's 2011 supplements program to be reportedly offered suspensions of six months or less, instead of the usual two years for an anti-doping offence. Among some of the other players are Kade Snowden, Luke Douglas, Matthew Wright, Jayson Bukuya, Anthony Tupou, Albert Kelly, Jeremy Smith, Wade Graham and Nathan Gardner. Sharks captain Paul Gallen is one of the majority of past and present Cronulla NRL players implicated in the ASADA scandal who have elected to accept the deal that will see them miss just three matches . The notices handed out to players, including Wade Graham (pictured), will only see players miss this season's last three games and a few weeks of next year's training before the 2015 season begins . Earlier on Wednesday Gallen said if he or any other Cronulla player accept reduced bans offered by ASADA, they'll automatically be labelled drug cheats. 'There is two ways to look at it,' Gallen Sky Sports Radio's Big Sports Breakfast. 'Obviously there's a lot of rumours going around the past couple of days - the boys have spoken about it. 'Our mind and our mood changes every 10 minutes. At one stage we're (thinking) "thank God, this is going to be over hopefully, whatever happens is going to happen and we can just get on with life". The Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority boss Ben McDevitt agreed to 17 doping notices on Tuesday night, including one for player John Morris (left) Players, including Nathan Gardner (pictured) were given 10 days to respond and could ahve chosen to challenge the show-cause notices in the Administrative Appeals Tribunal or the Federal Court . 'Because closure on this thing would just be unbelievable (after) what we've gone through the past two seasons. 'But then you say "let's stuff this, we've done nothing wrong". It's a real hard situation to be in.' Gallen was unsure if the players would be offered deals and whether it could be in anyway related to ASADA's progress in its investigation of AFL club Essendon which has been hit by court action. 'I've asked (my lawyer) about that and we're not 100 percent sure, because (my lawyer) believes that they're probably going to try and back us into a corner where we have to make a decision, basically ASAP before the Essendon thing is over,' he said. Seventeen past and present Cronulla rugby league players, including Albert Kelly, have reportedly been issued with show-cause notices after meeting with the NRL and anti-doping authority . The Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority boss Ben McDevitt agreed to 17 doping notices on Tuesday night and lawyers for players like Anthony Tupou were issued the notices on Wednesday . 'But as I said we don't know that for sure yet. 'It's what you see in a movie. But it's actually happening and we're right in the middle of it. It's pretty tough to take.' Gallen was adamant he hadn't taken any banned substance. 'I'm 100 per cent positive I've never taken anything that's been on any banned list,' he said. It was pointed out to Gallen that, if he accepted a six-month ban, he would miss only one month of next NRL season, but he would also miss out on representing Australia in the Four Nations series later this year and potential lucrative off-season boxing bouts he hoped to have. Among some of the other players offered suspensions are Kade Snowden, Luke Douglas (pictured), Matthew Wright, Jayson Bukuya, Anthony Tupou, Albert Kelly, Jeremy Smith, Wade Graham and Nathan Gardner . 'That's huge - you can't get those games for Australia back,' he said. 'But it's your reputation; it's what I've built over the last 15-plus years in training fulltime and getting to where I've got to in the game. 'It's tarnished now already, but no matter what, if we do this we're going to be labelled a drug cheat.' Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.
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Anti-doping agency boss Ben McDevitt reportedly agreed to 17 doping notices on Tuesday night .
Past and present Cronulla Sharks NRL players have been issued with show-cause notices .
Notices follow Cronulla's 2011 supplements program and signal authority's intent to charge players .
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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 10:39 EST, 2 August 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 02:02 EST, 3 August 2012 . As the boulder smashed through the windscreen of her car, making a deafening sound as it twisted the metal chassis, Heidi Huber could only look on in shock. The astonished motorist had just got out her the VW Lupo in a . car park in Germany's Black Forest when the huge rock came hurtling down . a cliff face plunging straight into the driver's seat. If she had waited in the car for two more seconds she would have been killed by the one ton boulder. Lucky escape: Heidi Huber had just got out her the VW Lupo in a car park in Germany's Black Forest when the huge rock came hurtling down a cliff face plunging straight into the driver's seat . Police say she was treated for shock and minor injuries caused by flying debris. ‘The woman had just parked and got out when the rock fell. ‘She heard a noise and in the next . moment the rock landed on her car. It was a huge,’ said Breisach am . Rhein police spokesman Mirko Steffl. ‘She certainly had a bit of a shock, but was lucky to only have lost just her car, not her life,’ he added. Shocking: The astonished motorist watched her car get crushed by a one ton boulder just two seconds after she'd stepped out of it .
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Heidi Huber had got out of her VW Lupo in a car park in Germany's Black Forest two seconds before a huge rock came hurtling down a cliff face plunging straight into the driver's seat .
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It's the second most common cancer for men worldwide, but prostate cancer remains difficult to diagnose, with standard blood tests criticized for delivering a high rate of false positives. But in a study presented in May this year, trained detection dogs were able to identify prostate cancer from a few sniffs of a urine sample with a staggering 98% accuracy, with few false positives. Although the study is by no means conclusive, it joins a growing body of research suggesting dogs could be able to smell out cancers. However, there are numerous practical problems in using dogs to detect cancers in a medical setting (not least training, consistency and identifying exactly which chemicals the dogs are detecting), which is why scientists are seeking to harness the potential detection ability of man's best friend through the development of an "electronic nose" capable of making a diagnosis. 'Easily sniffed' Finnish researchers are using a device that conducts molecular analysis of the atmosphere in the "headspace" above urine samples, and tests it for the volatile organic compounds associated with prostate cancer. In a study published earlier this year, the method had a detection rate of 78%, and a specificity (the probability of the test being negative when cancer is absent) of 67%. "We see molecules at the stages when the tumor is very small," said lead investigator Dr. Niku Oksala, of the University of Tampere. "We can also find whether it is aggressive or benign to know what action is needed." Oksala's team is continuing to refine the method, such as through removing impurities for cleaner sample analysis, but he believes the principle is reliable and can be applied to many other cancers. "We have found there are over 30 molecule compounds in a tumor that are very smelly and easily sniffed. Eventually this can be used as a test for every cancer in the Western world," he added. Around the world, similar approaches are being applied to offer simple diagnosis for the world's greatest killers. In 2011, the Gates Foundation announced funding for a battery-operated electronic nose prototype in India that functions as a breathalyzer test for tuberculosis. The "NaNose" is being developed by the Israeli Technion Institute, claiming 90% accuracy in detecting lung cancer from a breath test, and providing enough information to distinguish between subtypes of the disease. New generation . Electronic noses are not a new concept. Medical sensors first emerged in the 1980s, but were unable to deliver reliable diagnoses. But in this new generation of devices, experts believe the field has matured. "The idea been around for over 20 years with many companies making e-noses they thought would be useful for diagnosing diseases, but they were way oversold and that destroyed the idea for a time," says Dr. Gary Beauchamp, director of the Monell Chemical Senses Center in Pennsylvania. "While the devices today don't come close to mimicking the nose of a dog, I'm confident that they will help to recognize diseases based on body odors." Cancerous material can be found easily enough, says Beauchamp, but decoding the mass of combinations that form smells remains a difficulty. "Odors are a mixture of compounds and that requires pattern recognition. A dog recognizes an individual person through thousands of odors at one time, so you need a device that gives you the same information, and that is the challenge for the next generation." In the short-term, Beauchamp believes that odor recognition could be used in conjunction with other tests, particularly as a means of non-invasive, early detection that could be followed up if necessary. "They could become part of a routine examination in much the same way as blood tests ... that seems to me a likely scenario." There are fears that making diagnosis too widely available could take serious decisions out of the hands of experts, and that unreliable tools could proliferate. But similar techniques are already established outside of medicine, for a range of applications from testing for dangerous chemicals to quality control in food manufacturing. Companies are already moving toward consumer healthcare applications for the electronic nose. British start-up Owlstone is working on a mobile breath-testing system that would give users instant analysis of their breath, offering early detection of conditions such as diabetes, TB or cancers. NASA technology is also being researched as a mobile sensor for lung cancer. As molecular analysis becomes cheaper and more reliable the applications are rapidly expanding.
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Scientists developing "electronic noses" to detect diseases .
Finnish researchers report success in detecting prostate cancer .
Others are trying to detect TB and lung cancer by analyzing smell .
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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 10:15 EST, 22 May 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 13:18 EST, 22 May 2012 . Woe: Investors continued to shed Facebook shares on Tuesday. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg is pictured . Investors continued to shed Facebook shares on Tuesday, as brokers' growing doubts over the stock's valuation bubbled to the surface. Facebook's shares hit a low of $30.98 on Tuesday, 8.9 per cent below Monday's close, a loss of 18 per cent from their $38 IPO price. Many analysts predict its value will continue to fall in the wake of the much-hyped but shambolic initial public offering of 421m shares. More than 28 million shares had traded in early action on Tuesday, making it one of the most actively traded in U.S. markets. Shares were recently at $31.75, down 6.7 per cent on the day. At the low, the stock had lost 30 per cent from a high of $45 hit shortly after trading started on Friday. 'At the moment it's not living up to the hype,' said Frank Lesh, a futures analyst and broker at FuturePath Trading LLC in Chicago. Drop: Many analysts predict its value will continue to fall in the wake of the much-hyped but shambolic initial public offering of 421m shares . Facebook's flotation on the Nasdaq was one of the largest IPOs in U.S. history, raising nearly $20billion for the web giant. The drop in Facebook's share price wiped more than $11billion off of the company's market capitalization, or the total value of the tradable shares of a publicly traded company. Some financial advisers, who might have been furious last week at getting left out, were counting themselves lucky by Monday that they did not get their clients involved. Falling Fast: Facebook's shares hit a low of $30.98 on Tuesday, 8.9 per cent below Monday's close, a loss of 18 per cent from their $38 IPO price . 'By pure luck I failed to talk it up with a lot of clients because I didn't think I would be able to get much,' said one Raymond James adviser, who sought, and received, only 500 shares for one client. 'I basically told people they weren't going to get any, and luckily, it proved to be a bust,' the adviser said. Future Fortune: Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg married his longtime girlfriend after the Nasdaq IPO, but has lost billions since his company debuted . Facebook's revenue growth has also been slowing recently, raising flags among some who believe the company should show consistently strong revenue growth at this stage in its life. Just days before the initial public offering the company surprised investors when it disclosed that its revenue may plummet even more by users transitioning to mobile platforms, where advertising is less proven. That prompted the analyst at Morgan Stanley to surprisingly tell clients that he was cutting his revenue forecasts for the company. Thomson Reuters Starmine, meanwhile, using expected growth rates of about 10.8 percent over the next decade, values the shares at just $9.59, or less than one-third of its current price. Luck of the Draw: Some financial advisers, who might have been furious last week at getting left out, were counting themselves lucky by Monday that they did not get their clients involved . Dave Rovelli, a senior trader at Canaccord Genuity, told CNBC he would be reluctant to invest in Facebook until it had a viable long-term plan for turning its unprecedented amount of user data into profit. 'There's no bottom,' he said, noting that most major financial institutions were short-selling the shares. 'So there's no reason to jump in here. You're catching a falling knife.' 'There's no bottom. You're catching a falling knife.' Senior trader, Dave Rovelli . He added that the sharp fall in Facebook's share price 'leaves a bad taste in everyone's mouth', and could damage the reputation of stock markets as a whole. 'We're trying to get the retail investor back on board, and everyone who bought it is getting creamed,' Mr Rovelli said. Brian Wieser, an analyst at Pivotal Research Group who was the first expert to advise selling Facebook shares on Friday, said he thought the company's true value was around $30 a share. 'There must have been some sober second thoughts about this,' he said in the wake of Monday's mass sell-off. Mr Wieser added that there were 'real concerns about growth and advertisers' frequent lack of certainty how best to use Facebook'.
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Stocks sink to $30.98, an 18 per cent drop from the $38 IPO price .
28 million shares traded in first minutes of U.S. market opening .
Some analysts insist numbers prove Facebook's a 'bust'
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(CNN) -- A floating restaurant along the banks of the Ohio River in Covington, Kentucky, broke free from its moorings Thursday and drifted several hundred yards downriver, according to Assistant Fire Chief Chris Black. Jeff Ruby's Waterfront Restaurant -- which has sweeping views of downtown Cincinnati -- separated from the shoreline and floated downriver, striking the Clay Wade Bailey Bridge, which carries U.S. Routes 42 and 127, and spinning around in the process. "The part that was facing Kentucky is now facing Cincinnati" said the restaurant's owner, Jeff Ruby. The restaurant is currently being held in place by two tug boats and a barge, according to Ruby, preventing it from ramming into the aging Brent Spence Bridge. "The tugs will keep it (in place) overnight and then we have two more (boats) coming in the morning." Ruby says the plan is for them to gently guide the restaurant a few miles downriver to a secure dock in Hebron, Kentucky. Ruby told CNN that one of his employees was walking the 110-foot ramp that connects the floating restaurant to the dock when "he heard cable popping and snapping." Moments later, the dock end of the ramp plunged into the icy water. Ruby says the worker was able to scramble to safety, while another worker inside the restaurant was rescued about an hour later. This is not the first time that Jeff Ruby's Waterfront Restaurant has floated away. In fact, the restaurant has been closed since March 2011, when the same thing happened with 83 patrons inside, according to Black.
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Jeff Ruby's Waterfront Restaurant broke from its moorings on the Ohio River .
The floating eatery is being held in place on the Ohio River until it can be relocated .
The business has been closed since 2011 after it broke free with 83 people inside .
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(CNN) -- It met the definition of a major one, but the magnitude-7.2 earthquake that struck Friday in southern Mexico's Guerrero state didn't land the kind of punch that it might have. "There was no way not to feel it," Gustavo Lozano told CNN about the temblor, which struck at 9:27 a.m. (10:27 a.m. ET) and was centered 22 miles (36 kilometers) north-northwest of Tecpan. He was with his family at their home in Barra de Potosi, a fishing village nearly a three-hour drive northwest of Tecpan, when the earthquake hit. "It was extremely strong." Afraid of a possible tsunami, and unaware that no advisory had been issued for one, he and his family drove to a shelter at the Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport, where dozens of other people also were gathering. En route, they noticed a few walls from older buildings had collapsed, but nothing worse. Once there, they concluded they needn't have bothered taking shelter. "It seems like the worst has already happened," he said. The quake's depth at the epicenter was a shallow 15 miles (24 kilometers), the U.S. Geological Survey said. The Mexican National Seismological Service measured its depth at 6 miles (10 kilometers) and its magnitude as 7.0. USGS classifies any quake magnitude 7.0 to 7.9 as "major," and any at 8.0 or more as "great." The earthquake's timing and location could have proved devastating -- it occurred on the Pacific coast between major resort towns of Acapulco and Zihuatanejo during Holy Week, when Mexicans traditionally flock to the beaches, and resorts typically run at full capacity. Its impact was also felt in Mexico City, 170 miles (273 kilometers) northeast of the epicenter. "I was working in my radio news program ... and we were talking about (author) Gabriel GarcÃa Marquez's death, when I started to feel how the ground was shaking and the lamps were moving," journalist Sol Rivera said via e-mail. She urged her listeners to remain calm and to move to a safe space. Reporters soon called to inform her that everything was OK. At least one building in the capital was damaged, but there were no reports of major damage, Mexico City Mayor Miguel Angel Mancera told CNN affiliate FOROtv. The city's secretary of civil protection, Fausto Lugo, said electricity failed in some areas and that some people reported being trapped inside elevators, but that there were no reports of injuries. Tecpan is 54 miles (87 kilometers) northwest of Acapulco, where the city's civil protection office said via Twitter that basic services were operating without reports of damage. Seated on top of three tectonic plates, Mexico is in one of the most seismically active parts of the world. On September 19, 1985, a magnitude-8.1 earthquake killed an estimated 9,500 people in Mexico City. What you need to know about earthquakes . Measuring the magnitude of earthquakes . The place where two earthquakes hit every hour . CNN's Elwyn Lopez, Kurt Muller, Jason Hanna and Nelson Quinones contributed to this report.
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"There was no way not to feel it," a villager says .
The quake was centered an hour and a half northwest of Acapulco .
The quake was a shallow 15 miles at the epicenter, the U.S. Geological Survey says .
A building was damaged in Mexico City, 170 miles from quake's epicenter .
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The asylum seeker policy debate is settled, the coalition has stopped the boats and it's time to move on, Immigration Minister Scott Morrison will declare. In a major speech to the National Press Club on Wednesday to mark one year since the beginning of Operation Sovereign Borders, Mr Morrison will say the 'grand policy experiment' of the last decade is over. 'It's the coalition policies that effectively stopped the boats,' he is expected to say. 'That argument, that debate is settled and it's time to move on.' Immigration Minister Scott Morrison is expected to declare an end to the asylum seeker policy debate in a speech at the National Press Club . Mr Morrison told ABC radio that Labor's policies had 'completely failed' but the coalition was fixing the problem. 'We're well on the road to doing that,' he said. 'I think we can now move on in this debate.' The speech comes after recent revelations about 'filthy' living conditions at Australia's immigration centre compounds on Manus Island in Papua New Guinea. Former detention centre guard Beau Mitchell took photographs of the 'filthy' living conditions before he quit his job in disgust. Mr Mitchell told the ABC that he wasn't surprised Iranian asylum seeker Hamid Kehazaei died from an infection he caught at the detention centre. Mr Kehazaei, 24, is believed to have spent days seeking treatment for a cut on his foot that had been there for weeks whilst he was detained at Manus Island. Iranian asylum seeker Hamid Kehazaei, 24, died as a result of an infection in a cut in his foot caught at Australia's immigration detention centre at Manus Island . He was initially transferred to a Port Moresby hospital to treat his septicaemia, where he had a heart attack before being sent to Brisbane. He was then declared brain dead at Mater Private Hospital before his family made the heartbreaking decision to turn off his life support last Friday. Mr Morrison has rejected suggestions the care provided to Mr Kehazaei was inadequate. Opposition immigration spokesman Richard Marles has said Labor continues to be concerned about the lack of transparency surrounding the treatment of asylum seekers.
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Immigration minister to give major speech to National Press Club today .
Morrison to say that 'coalition policies effectively stopped the boats'
Speech comes just days after asylum seeker held on Manus Island died .
Critics claim filthy conditions to blame for Iranian developing septiceamia .
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Two police officers pleaded not guilty to assault charges on Wednesday in the violent beat-down of a teenage marijuana suspect who prosecutors say never put up a fight. David Afanador and Tyraine Isaac sat expressionless as defense attorney Stephen Worth entered the plea for them at an appearance in state court in Brooklyn. Afterward, Worth said a widely watched security video of the encounter was misleading. 'It's only damning because it lacks the context which the officers and the other evidence in this case will provide,' Worth said. Charged: New York police officers David Afanador, left, and Tyraine Isaac, right, leave state court following their arraignment on Wednesday where they plead not guilty to assault charges . Defense: Attorney Stephen Worth holds a press briefing on the arraignment of his clients, New York police officers David Afanador and Tyraine Isaac on Wednesday . Prosecution: Amy Rameau, right, attorney for Kahreem Tribble, speaks with reporters following the arraignment in state court of New York police officers David Afanador and Tyraine Isaac . He said the teen marijuana suspect was 'noncompliant' throughout the encounter. Brooklyn District Attorney Ken Thompson, speaking to reporters at his office, took a different view. He called the video convincing evidence of police brutality. 'We had a 16-year-old boy with his hands up, seeking to surrender, who was attacked by members of the force who are supposed to protect him. ... He was defenseless,' Thompson said. 'We've all seen the video. It speaks for itself.' In the video, 16-year-old Kahreem Tribble is seen running away from the officers in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Bedford-Stuyvesant about 2am on Aug. 29. After a brief chase, Tribble stops running and turns around to face the NYPD cops in apparent surrender. That's when one of the officers, later identified as Tyrane Isaac, approaches the teen and punches him in the head, according to DNAinfo New York. A few seconds later, Officer David Afanador catches up to Tribble — as he raises his hands — and whacks him in the teeth with the pistol, breaking a front tooth and chipping another, according to the news site. Officer Isaac then later punches the teen again, the website reported. Afanador, who leaves momentarily to find the black bag that Tribble allegedly threw out when he saw the cops, comes back a few minutes later. He waves the bag in the teen's face and smacks him with it. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . Officer Tyrane Isaac is seen here punching Kahreem Tribble, 16, just seconds after he stops and surrenders . Officer David Afandondor catches up to Tribble and is seen pistol whipping the teen in the mouth . The two cops began chasing Tribble near 1311 St. John's Place when they spotted the 16-year-old looking through the window of a parked vehicle, according to DNAinfo New York. Police say Tribble tossed out a small black bag before taking off and officers feared he had a gun, the news website reported. Tribble was arrested with 17 small bags of marijuana, court records show. He was also charged with disorderly conduct. The NYPD's Internal Affairs Bureau began investigating the arrest and tracked down the video after the teen complained about a mouth injury. Medical records showed that he lost at least two teeth. News of the excessive-force investigation surfaced last month amid an uproar over the death of an unarmed man, Eric Garner, during another videotaped arrest in July on Staten Island. The medical examiner ruled that a banned chokehold used by one of the arresting officers contributed to Garner's death. A grand jury is hearing evidence to consider whether there should be criminal charges brought in the Garner case, with a decision expected before the end of the year. Union officials insist the officer used an authorized takedown move, not a chokehold. Afanador, 33, faces up to seven years in prison if convicted of felony assault. Isaac, 36, faces up to a year if convicted of misdemeanor assault. Both have been suspended from the police force. Police Commissioner William Bratton has said he's eager to identify abusive officers and kick them out of the nation's largest police department.
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Officers David Afanador and Tyraine Isaac pleaded not guilty to assault charges on Wednesday in the violent beat-down of a teenage suspect .
Afanador, 33, faces up to seven years in prison if convicted of felony assault. Isaac, 36, faces up to a year if convicted of misdemeanor assault .
Kahreem Tribble, 16, was running away from officers in Brooklyn when they caught up to him, punching and shattering his front teeth .
Tribble, who was caught with marijuana, had already turned around to face the cops and had his hands up, surveillance footage shows .
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The chairman of the House panel responsible for green-lighting war spending warned the Obama administration Thursday that ruling out 'boots on the ground' in the battle against ISIS if it formally asks Congress to authorize future military operations. 'I will not support sending our military into harm’s way with their arms tied behind their backs,' said Armed Services Committee Chairman Buck McKeon, a California Republican who is in the last weeks before his retirement. He warned during a committee hearing that regardless of who holds his gavel when a formal Authorization for Use of Military Force comes to Capitol Hill from the White House, 'should the AUMF proposed by the president contain such limitations it will be DOA in Congress.' Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Martin Dempsey said in the same hearing that Iraqi military forces are making progress restoring order in the Northern city of Mosul and re-establishing the country's border with Syria. As those operations gain traction, he said, the 'boots on the ground' question could be re-opened. 'I'm not predicting at this point that I would recommend that those forces in Mosul and along the border would need to be accompanied by U.S. forces, but we're certainly considering it,' Dempsey told lawmakers. Buck McKeon, chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, issued a pointed warning that Congress would refuse to sign a permission slip for war unless the option of using ground troops were left on the table . 'I don't know specifically what they are going to propose': Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said he;s out of the loop on a new AUMF from the White House . 'WE'RE CERTAINLY CONSIDERING IT': Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Martin Dempsey told lawmakers he was open to the idea of recommending US ground troops to Obama . As it conducts a long-term military operation to 'degrade and ultimately destroy' the self-declared Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), the Obama administration has been relying on an AUMF hastily passed in the weeks following al-Qaeda's September 11, 2001 terror attacks on New York City and the Pentagon – and on an Iraq war resolution passed in 2003. Now, however, the enemy is ISIS, a Muslim caliphate that has rampaged across two-thirds of Syria and Iraq. Its members were expelled from al-Qaeda and the older terror group regards ISIS fighters as apostates. The result has been a White House that is relying on a battlefield permission-slip that many in Congress say is ill-fitting and obsolete. The administration has asked for $5.6 billion in new defense spending authority, raising eyebrows and new questions on the Hill as Obama pledged to double the U.S. military presence in the ISIS war while simultaneously claiming there would be no American battle engagement. McKeon warned Gen. Dempsey that 'limiting our advisers to headquarters buildings will not help newly trained Iraqi and Syrian opposition forces hold terrain, much less defeat [ISIS] in the field.' 'Yet the president has doubled down on his policy of 'no boots on the ground,' despite any advice you give him.' Texas Republican Rep. Mac Thornberry told Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel that vague commitments from the White House has made it impossible for Congress to do its job. 'Until you get words on paper it's kinda hard to make progress,' Thornberry said. Hagel was noncommittal and said the White House was internally debating whether it needs a new AUMF from lawmakers – and how a request should be worded. 'I don't know specifically what they are going to propose,' he said. 'I don't know specifically if they are going to send it up as a legislative proposal.' 'I know the president has had specific conversations with specific members of both the House and Senate on this.' Senate Democrats have found their voices since their Election Day drubbing, and have spent much of the last week demanding a vote on a new AUMF before Republicans take over committee chairmanships and swear in a new majority in January. On Wednesday at the Woodrow WIlson Center in Washington, D.C., Virginia Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine complained that the U.S. has been 'engaged in a war – that is not about imminent defense of the United States – without legal authority.' In a statement after the election, Kaine said he was 'troubled by suggestions ... that Congress should wait until the new Congressional session in 2015 to take this vote.' 'We have already asked too many U.S. service members to risk their lives without a political consensus behind this mission,' he said. ANTI-WAR PROTESTS ONLY ON DAYS ENDING IN 'Y': The Code Pink group sent an activist to disrupt Thursday's proceedings . THE ENEMY: An ISIS fighter gestures from a vehicle in the countryside of the Syrian Kurdish town of Kobane after the terror army took control of the area last month . BOOTS ON THE GROUND ARE KURDISH: While U.S. armed forces aren't carrying weapons into battle, the Peshmerga forces have been holding ISIS at bay . Republicans like North Carolina Rep. Walter Jones insist that anti-ISIS airstrikes are illegal without a congressional go-ahead. 'This is nothing more than an abdication of our constitutional responsibility,' he said Thursday. But moments later he hinted that many Republicans would play a dovish role unless the Obama administration clearly defined victory while asking for billions of dollars to achieve it. 'For goodness sakes, why in the world should be make such a commitment, and we don't even have an endpoint for it?' 'What is the end-state of what we are trying to accomplish?' he asked. 'I don't know how we convince the American people that a nation which is financially broke ... where is it coming from? Please explain to the Congress and the American people how it ends one day?' Hagel insisted that ISIS 'continues to represent a serious threat to American interests, our allies, and the Middle East ... and wields influence over a broad swath of territory in western and northern Iraq and eastern Syria.'
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Obama wants $5.6 billion to fight ISIS in Iraq and Syria but Republicans bristle at insistence that US troops won't engage in combat .
Now the military joint chiefs chairman says the Pentagon 'is certainly considering' recommending sending American personnel into harm's way .
Administration has been relying on congressional military authorization that dates back to 2003 .
Members on both right and left insist that Obama can't constitutionally continue to wage war without new permission from lawmakers .
'I will not support sending our military into harm’s way with their arms tied behind their backs,' said the House Armed Services Committee chairman .
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121ce5ed023a744e8dbb7f84be50aed0719666f4
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(CNN) -- World hot dog eating record holders Joey "Jaws" Chestnut and Sonya "The Black Widow" Thomas engaged in a pre-meet stare down Friday as they weighed in for the annual Nathan's July Fourth hot dog eating contest. But for the first time, Chestnut -- who two years ago ate 68 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes -- and Thomas -- the top female eater, with 41 hot dogs and buns -- will not compete directly at Coney Island. In a move to increase the contest's fame, Nathan's is sponsoring separate male and female competitions, in effect setting the plate for Thomas, a Burger King manager who reigns supreme among female hot dog eaters, to finally capture her own championship belt. It is pink, unlike the men's mustard yellow belt, to promote Pepto Bismol, another event sponsor. Male and female contestants will vie for equal purses of $20,000. The annual display of conspicuous consumption is a marketing marvel that captivates the media and has propelled Nathan's Famous to seven consecutive years of higher revenues and profits. During its most recent fiscal year, Nathan's sold about 453 million hot dogs, a 93% increase during the seven-year span, giving it bragging rights as the No. 1 selling beef hot dog at retail outlets across the United States. The company, which is public, has seen its shares rise three-fold during the same period. "This is one of the greatest marketing stunts ever, ever put forth in the United States," proclaimed Wayne Norbitz, president and chief operating officer of Nathan's Famous. "It's been a great marketing strategy for us." So great the July Fourth hot dog eating contest and more than a dozen qualifying matches around North America comprise the majority of Nathan's Famous marketing budget. The company airs no television commercials. The hot dog eating contest is a natural for Nathan's, which first opened by the fun-filled amusement park 96 years ago. In the late 1970s the contest was just another Coney Island sideshow, thought up by PR stunt man Max Rosey. Norbitz, a young Nathan's employee in 1977, remembers creating the competition with Rosey in front of the Coney Island restaurant. "We waited for a couple of fat guys to walk by. We asked if they wanted to eat hot dogs in a contest. They said yes. We ran a quick little contest and the whole object was to get a photo in the New York Post," recalled Norbitz. Rosey's protégé, George Shea, his brother Richard Shea and partner David Baer are the marketing mavens who have brought competitive eating -- or gastric-centered sports, as they like to call it -- into the modern era. The marketers introduced the coveted mustard yellow championship belt, arranged for ESPN to telecast the competition live, built up the rivalry between former champion Takeru Kobayashi and current champ Joey Chestnut, and have promoted the "eaters" as professional athletes. "It's absolutely a sport and it has the attendance of a sport, and these guys are athletes for sure," claimed Richard Shea. Practicing what they preach, the Sheas have packaged Nathan's hot dog eating competitions, as well as other disciplines including oysters, hamburgers, cheese steak, baby back ribs, buffalo wings, gyros, jalapenos, asparagus, meatballs, sweet corn, catfish and corned beef into a league: Major League Eating. "The MLE circuit goes on all year and hits all kinds of towns, markets and various foreign shores," said Richard Shea, who said he believes his marketing technique breaks through the clutter of traditional advertising and public relations. "There's so many things you can make competitive, compelling, and then use those as a platform for all these brands looking for eyeballs." This year's lead stunt for the Sheas is an effort to create a rivalry between the United States and China by bringing Chinese eaters to Coney Island for the July Fourth contest, just when Nathan's happens to be embarking on a major expansion in China. The company recently concluded a deal with a franchisee who plans to open 80 Nathan's Famous outlets in China. "They represent a potential threat to our possession of the mustard belt," warned George Shea. "China is expanding and rising as a political and global power, economic and otherwise. If they take the belt it's going to hit us right where we breathe. They are going to be eating our lunch, literally." Champion Joey Chestnut appeared to take Shea's claim seriously. At Friday's weigh-in he confronted one of the Chinese eaters, asking, "How many are you going to eat?" "I hope 20," came the response. A clearly relieved Chestnut then offered sportsmanlike encouragement, "Next year you'll eat more." The record holder then confessed he could use some tough competition. "If someone's not pushing me it's hard," he said. It appears unlikely Chestnut will have that motivation at the big table in Coney Island. While the Nathan's competition is under way in Brooklyn, Chestnut's chief nemesis Kobayashi plans to stage his own hot dog eating performance at a bar in Manhattan. He was banned from the Nathan's event last year after a contract dispute and then arrested after trying to jump onto the Coney Island stage, generating even more publicity for the eating contest and for Nathan's Famous.
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Annual July Fourth eating contest increases sales for Nathan's Famous .
This year the contest splits into male and female divisions .
Contest adds competitors from China, where Nathan's franchises are opening .
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While most of us are familiar with the word "meme" as the 21st century's buzzword for the latest trends and multi-media conversations in social media, Internet memes actually have been in active circulation for decades. They existed long before the arrival of web 2.0, social networking and the so-called viral industry, back when 56K dial-up was your only key to the World Wide Web and even before that, during the bygone years of Usenet newsgroups. With this in mind, let's take a look back at the top 10 most classic Internet memes that have sprung up and defined our "cyberculture" as we once knew it. Leetspeak (1980s) "1337speak," read as leetspeak, is a corrupt style of the English language marked by liberal interchanging of numbers and symbols in place of certain letters that arose from the so-called "leet" ("elite") subculture of hackers in the late 1980s, and later, gamers in the 1990s. Though now considered an outdated vernacular, 1337speak established a way to "be cool" on the Internet and left many other lasting legacies in the online gaming world -- most notably "n00bs" (newbies) and "getting pwned" (owned). Godwin's Law (1990) In a telling sign that shows the Internet's penchant for arguing and mudslinging, one of the first Internet memes to be referred to as such is a piece of Usenet-era wisdom from Mike Godwin, who observed in 1990 that "as an Internet discussion grows longer, the probability of a comparison involving Nazis or Hitler approaches one." Since then, Godwin's Law has matured into an unspoken rule on message boards and forums that says: "if you mention Hitler or the Nazis to advance your argument in a discussion thread, you've automatically ended and lost the debate." Hamster Dance (1998) This very adorable (and equally obnoxious) homage to dancing hamsters went live in 1998 and quickly spread like a wildfire through newsgroups and e-mail chains, inspiring a series of copycats and parodies like "The Pig Dance," The Matchstick Dance" and even "The Jesus Dance." Though it may not look like much in comparison to "Nyan Cat" or "Hamster on a Piano," the dancing hamsters were declared one of the biggest sensations the Internet had ever seen at the time, along with the legendary "Dancing Baby." All Your Base are Belong to Us (1998) Originally found in the opening dialogue sequence from the 1989 Japanese space shoot'em up game "Zero Wing," this awkward translation of the phrase "all of your bases are under our control" swept across gaming message boards and forums in the late 1990s, giving rise to one of the first epic-scale "Photoshop memes" based on poorly translated quotes from Japanese video games and animes. Not surprisingly, a number of other funny "Engrish" moments from Nintendo video games were brought to light in the wake of "All Your Base," including "I am Error" (The Legend of Zelda) and "A Winner is You" (Pro Wrestling). You're the Man Now, Dog (2001) It's impossible to talk about the state of Internet humor and remix culture in the early 2000s without bringing up the names of a few websites, one of them being YTMND.com. While the site first began as a humble monument to an awesomely awkward quote uttered by Sean Connery's character in the 2000 drama "Finding Forrester," it inadvertently grew into a major creative hub for mash-ups and parodies of all things pop culture, like "The Picard Song" or "Lindsay Lohan's Unchanging Facial Expressions." Anonymous (2003) The word may nowadays ring a bell with headlines about hacktivism, DDoS (distributed denial-of-service) attacks and Internet vigilantes, but the movement actually started back in 2003 as a far less political group of users on 4chan's /b/ board who would occasionally pull mass pranks on other online communities for their own entertainment under the collective pseudonym "Anonymous" -- a label that was designated to every user on /b/ by default. In the following years, the group continued to build its notoriety through on-air prank calls and chat room raids, most notably the infamous Habbo Hotel invasion in 2006, until the launch of Project Chanology in 2008. FAIL (2003) Yet another classic genre of Internet humor that emerged at the turn of the century, this catch-all term quickly rose to favor in the early 2000s as people on the Internet began coming to terms with the fact that we love to laugh when others fail, a psychological behavior also known by the German word "schadenfreude." The resounding impact of FAIL in humor can still be felt in today's Internet memescape, as we continue to celebrate others' ineptitude through an evolving generation of emoticons and slang terms, such as *facepalm*, cringe and the look of disapproval. Badger Badger Badger (2003) "Badger Badger Badger" is a flash animation featuring an army of badgers dancing to a repetitive electronic song interspersed with occasional mentions of "mushroom." Created by Jonti Picking in 2003, the animation not only provided a springboard for Picking's cartoon site Weeble's Stuff, but also served as the gateway meme to the Internet's fondness for mind-numbingly repetitive tunes that continues to this day. See: Nyan Cat . LOLcats (2007) Just in case you forgot, this is the story of how cats became the lions of the animal memedom. By the mid-2000s, consumer-grade digital cameras pretty much had become a household staple, and with a stroke of genius on the meme factory of 4chan, thusly began the great invasion of the adorable and semi-literate cats, and their Cheezburgers, on the Internet. In addition to making cats ever so popular, LOLcats also put the Impact font on the map as the standard typeface of Internet humor. Rickrolling (2007) "Rickrolling," or tricking someone into clicking a link under the impression it will lead to something interesting, but instead serenades the viewer with Rick Astley's "Never Gonna Give You Up," led to the song became an unlikely hit over two decades after its release and brought the British singer back into the limelight. The meme also brought the concept of trolling into mainstream consciousness. There have been a number of successors to carry on this "bait-and-switch" tradition, some of the most popular choices being "Trololo" and the wheelchair cliff scene from "Mac and Me."
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Celebrating 25 years of the World Wide Web, Ben Huh recalls some of its finest memes .
Hamster dance was adorable, obnoxious, viral .
Lolcats took over the internet in 2007 .
Rickrolling was a classic "bait and switch" meme .
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By . Ray Massey . PUBLISHED: . 04:48 EST, 19 January 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 09:49 EST, 19 January 2013 . It’s more sky-high than Skyfall. But James Bond’s favourite car-maker has taken an Aston Martin to new heights with a dramatic daredevil stunt to celebrate the car-maker’s 100th anniversary. The audacious event saw the airlift of Aston Martin’s ultimate grand tourer - the Vanquish - onto the helipad at the luxurious Burj Al Arab hotel - the world's fourth tallest - in Dubai. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . Spectacular: The Aston Martin Vanquish was dropped onto a helipad on top of the Burj Al Arab in Dubai . On air: The Vanquish floats 1,000ft above the Dubai skyline . High flyer: The James Bond-style stunt was attempted to mark the 100th anniversary of the iconic car-maker . The Vanquish sits proudly atop the Burj Al Arab hotel after a successful landing on the 1,000ft helipad . It’s the first time a car . has been placed onto the helipad, which sits 1,000ft above the ground . at the top of the sail-shaped building. Aston . Martin chief executive Dr Ulrich Bez said: ‘It is with great pride that . we continue our centenary celebrations in such a unique manner in the . city of Dubai. 'We have . achieved another world first – one of many for Aston Martin over the . years. This is a true feat for Aston Martin and a fantastic way to begin . a new century of global success for our iconic brand.' He . said: 'Aston Martin remains one of the most exclusive and sought-after . brands in the world, so it is only right that a key element of our . year-long centenary celebrations takes place in a similarly high profile . destination.' The Vanquish is carried through the air in scenes reminiscent of a James Bond classic . The stunt comes as Aston martin celebrates 100 years of flying high as James Bond's favourite car . A group of Dubai VIPS met the Aston Martin as it landed on top of the Burj Al Arab hotel . British Ambassador to the UAE Dominic Jermey said: 'Aston Martin is one of the world’s most iconic automotive brands. 'I . cannot think of a more spectacular or fitting way for this great . British tradition to mark its one hundredth anniversary, particularly in . this city that is so passionate for luxury and bespoke brands.' The Aston martin Airlift comes just days after the firm’s centenary was celebrated in London. The . events in London and Dubai mark the start of a year-long celebration of . all things Aston Martin, with events taking place worldwide over the . next 12 months. James Bond's favourite: Daniel Craig with another classic Aston Martin model in the latest thriller Skyfall . Classic: The Aston Martin DB5 which appeared in the 1964 Bond film Goldfinger . Trailblazer: The second prototype of the Aston Martin 'Coal Scuttle' in 1920 which won plaudits for its innovative design . Powerful: A DB4 model from 1961 which was the first Aston to be manufactured at the company's works in Buckinghamshire . History: Heritage Trust Roger Carey (left) and Aston Martin Chairman David Richards (right) by a new plaque to mark the place where Aston Martin cars were first manufactured . Aston Martin was founded 100 years ago today by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford. Their company Bamford & Martin later became Aston Martin, acknowledging Bamford's success at the Aston Clinton Hillclimb in Buckinghamshire, where he had successfully raced their very first cars. The centenary ceremony took place at 16 Henniker Mews, off Callow Street, Brompton, London, SW3 6BL where Bamford and Martin, which later went on to become Aston Martin Ltd was incorporated on 15 January 1913. Among those taking part were Aston Martin chairman David Richards and Roger Carey, chairman of the Aston Martin Heritage Trust (AMHT) as well as the firm’s directors and leading members of the Aston Martin Owners Club. The anniversary also comes at a fitting time for Bond fans as 007 picks up screen honours and is short-listed for a number of Oscars. WATCH THE ASTON MARTIN BEING AIRLIFTED ONTO THE BURJ AL ARAB HOTEL HERE: .
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Latest Vanquish model lifted onto helipad at Burj Al Arab hotel .
First time feat has been attempted at world's fourth tallest hotel .
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'At least we're not Blackpool'. That mantra is just about all Birmingham City have had to cling on to of late with crises on and off the field suffocating the club. But Gary Rowett taking the managerial job on offer from the club is confirmation that things, even given Saturday's 8-0 mauling by Bournemouth, could indeed be worse. As Sportsmail revealed in September, Rowett turned down an unofficial approach from Blackpool to replace Jose Riga as their manager. Gary Rowett (left) is the new Birmingham City manager, replacing Lee Clark . Rowett, having sought assurances over Birmingham's finances before taking the job on Monday, must therefore see some light at the end of the St Andrew's tunnel in spite of the current malaise at the club. That being said, emotional attachment is sure to have played a part in Rowett's decision. He spent two years at Birmingham as a player from 1998 to 2000. But even if the club do not find much-needed financial investment soon, it's hard to think of a more suitable appointment at this time by Birmingham than Rowett. The task at hand for him is not an easy one by an stretch. The scoreline tells the tale after Birmingham's 8-0 thrashing by Bournemouth at St Andrew's on Saturday . Callum Reilly (left) and David Davis look dejected as another Bournemouth goal goes in . Anyone who thought sacking Lee Clark would immediately see an up-turn in form suffered a rude awakening on Saturday as a team picked and prepared by caretaker Malcolm Crosby were annihilated in front of their own fans. Neil Lennon and Kit Symons have revived the fortunes of Bolton and Fulham respectively in recent weeks, but the players were always there at those clubs. The squad assembled by Clark, on the other hand, is on paper frankly not good enough to stay in the Championship. Birmingham, along with Blackpool, stand out as lacking the pedigree of player to compete with the best in the second tier. A talented crop of youngsters are complemented by a smattering of players signed by Clark from the lower leagues who, to a man, have not delivered. Rowett challenges Barnsley's Bruce Dyer in a Division One (now Championship) play-off semi-final in 2000 . If Birmingham are to stand any chance of staying up Rowett must use the loan market wisely and get some of Clark's signings performing. Even assuming that Blackpool go down, Birmingham must leapfrog two more sides to stay up, and it is hard to see how they can do that. Those clubs immediately above them - Bolton, Fulham and Wigan - are all on an upward trajectory and should have more than enough about them to ease in to mid-table at least. More realistically, Rowett will be hoping to hunt down Leeds, Huddersfield, Rotherham and Millwall, all of whom are already five or six points clear of the Blues. For a club bereft of confidence with just two wins under their belt this season, that is a big gap. Grant Hall (left) apologises to the fans after the game and David Edgar (right) is sent off early on . But if anyone can do it, it's Rowett. Speaking to Sportsmail in September 2012, the 40-year-old's passion for coaching and, more specifically, improving players - something he will have to do at Birmingham - was evident. 'I've been coaching for eight years now, which I think a lot of people don't realise,' Rowett, now with 10 years' experience, said. 'When I finished at Charlton at aged 30 I had about a month off and then went straight into coaching. 'I looked back and realised I had had a good career, but I knew straight away that it wouldn't mean anything if I couldn't coach. I might get away with it for a year or two, but it didn't mean anything to me really. 'I thought, "right, I've got to start again and learn my role, learn how to coach properly".' That drive, passion and experience allows Rowett to exude an infectious confidence that brings the best out in his players, or certainly has done at Burton for the past two-and-a-half years. Rowett has been a resounding success at Burton, twice leading them to the League Two play-offs . At the Pirelli Stadium, Rowett made and maintained side noted for their organisation, consistency and professionalism, all things that Birmingham have lacked badly in recent years. Rowett, who cites Joe Royle, Sam Allardyce, Steve McClaren and Alan Curbishley as his biggest influences, was a defender in his playing days so will no doubt look to address Birmingham's backline as a priority. The Blues are conceding on average two goals per game - only Scunthorpe have conceded more than their 28 in the entire Football League. Perhaps most importantly of all, Rowett has the personality and background to bring the fans back to St Andrew's. Birmingham's home form has been woeful for a couple of years now and Clark, with the exception of those final-day survival celebrations at Bolton last season, never really connected with the fans. Lee Clark was sacked earlier this month with Birmingham struggling in the relegation zone . Rowett should not have the same problem. He was popular in his time at the club as a player, playing in a period that Blues fans look back on fondly. Another reason why moving for him makes perfect sense by a club whose decision-making has been questionable in recent times to say the least. You'd still be a brave man to back Birmingham to stay up. But if anyone can do it, it's Gary Rowett. Good week for... PRESTON. Simon Grayson's side made it six wins on the spin against Fleetwood as a 19-minute Joe Garner hat-trick completed a remarkable comeback from 2-0 down. So good is Preston's form that they will go above unbeaten Bristol City at the top of League One should they win their two games in hand. Bad week for... BURTON. Not only are they losing their manager, the Brewers somehow managed to contrive to lose to Stevenage despite their hosts not having a single shot all game on Saturday. A late Ian Sharps own goal settled it as Gary Rowett's former side, who had five shots, slipped to third in the League Two table. Talent scout: Lasse Vigen Christensen (Fulham) Fulham's revival under Kit Symons gathered pace on Friday night with a 3-0 win over London rivals Charlton. The Cottagers were sensational in the first half with Danish midfielder Christensen epitomising their energy, speed and accuracy when passing the ball. If Fulham had blooded youngsters such as the 20-year-old Christensen last season they might just have stayed up. Lasse Vigen Christensen looks like a highly talented player in Fulham's midfield .
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Burton confirmed on Monday Gary Rowett is leaving them for Birmingham .
Rowett leaves Burton in third place in League Two .
Birmingham 23rd in Championship after 8-0 defeat by Bournemouth .
Lee Clark sacked by Birmingham earlier this month .
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By . Associated Press . PUBLISHED: . 16:08 EST, 26 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 04:25 EST, 27 August 2013 . A high school football coach has been suspended after he was caught on tape smacking the helmet of a student player. Mark Guandolo, who coaches the team at Cypress Bay High School in Miami, Florida, was seen hitting quarterback Lucas Tellefsen during a televised Sunday night game. Cypress Bay High played American Heritage from Plantation in a game that was broadcast on ESPN’s High School Football Kickoff. Scroll down for video . Suspended: Cypress Bay High's football coach Mark Guandolo was suspended today after he slapped student player Lucas Tellefsen's helmet on Sunday . A video of the incident was posted on YouTube following the game but has since been removed. School officials investigated the incident and met with the coach, the player and his family, according to the Miami Herald. Mr Guandolo told the Herald that he was 'just trying to fire him up, but you can't do it in today's day and age'. The coach was upset over the incident, the school's athletic director revealed, along with the boy's parents who felt the whole thing had been blown out of proportion. However the school saw fit to suspend the long-time coach and the district's superintendent released this statement on Monday: 'Upon becoming aware of the incident during the Cypress Bay football game, I immediately directed staff to look into the situation. In accordance with District policies and procedures, the District will move forward with the following actions regarding Coach Mark Guandolo, which will include a three-day suspension from work and a two-week suspension from athletic activities. 'I expect every staff member to adhere to the highest professional standards in every aspect of their interactions with our students.' Heat of the moment: Guandolo has been suspended following a meeting with the boy, his family and school officials on Monday . Talent: High school player Lucas Tellefsen was seen on the tape being smacked on the helmet by his coach on Sunday .
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Mark Guandol, who coaches the team at Cypress Bay High School in Miami, was seen hitting smacking quarterback Lucas Tellefsen's helmet .
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(CNN) -- Saudi Arabia's oil reserves may have been grossly overestimated and its capacity to continue pumping at current capacity exaggerated, according to a U.S. diplomatic cable sent from the kingdom in 2007. The cable, obtained by WikiLeaks and published in the British newspaper The Guardian, cited the views of Sadad al-Husseini, who had been in charge of exploration and production at the Saudi state-owned company Aramco for 12 years until 2004. Saudi Aramco dominates exploration and production in the kingdom. "According to al-Husseini, the crux of the issue is two-fold," the cable says. "First it is possible that Saudi reserves are not as bountiful as sometimes described and the timeline for their production not as unrestrained as Aramco executives and energy optimists would like." Al-Husseini is quoted as disagreeing with his former company's estimate of total reserves in Saudi Arabia, the world's largest oil producer. "He believes that Aramco's reserves are overstated by as much as 300 billion barrels of 'speculative resources.' He instead focuses on original proven reserves." Al Husseini forecasts "a plateau in total output that will last approximately fifteen years," meaning that soon after 2020 "a slow but steady output decline will ensue and no amount of effort will be able to stop it." The former Aramco executive's forecast was based on Saudi Arabia's stated goal of producing 12.5 million barrels per day by 2009. Industry commentators say it has fallen short of that goal because of the global economic slowdown and insufficient global refining capacity. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Saudi Arabia produced 8.4 million barrels per day of crude oil in 2010, and around 1.8 million barrels per day of natural gas. But less was available for export because of rapidly increasing domestic demand. And as global demand recovers, driven by India and China, the price of crude oil has risen sharply. In the long term, Al Husseini sees an "underlying reality that global demand has met supply," according to the cable. "Due to the longer-term constraints on expanding global output, al-Husseini judges that demand will continue to outpace supply and that for every million-barrels-per-day shortfall that exists between demand and supply, the floor price will increase by $12 (per barrel)," the cable says. Oil industry observers say that while there have been significant finds of crude in recent years -- especially off the coast of Brazil and West Africa -- some fields are in deep water and will be difficult to recover. And they are not big enough to alter the fundamental picture with "super-fields" like the Ghawar field in Saudi Arabia beginning to decline. However, new reservoir technologies may allow producers to exploit reserves that are currently inaccessible. In Saudi Arabia's case, that amounts to an estimated 360 billion barrels. Oil industry analysts point out another variable: the use of alternative energy sources. A U.S. cable from 2009 says the Saudis want to develop renewable energy sources, including nuclear power, to meet the rapidly growing demand for electricity. That could have the effect of reducing the need to divert crude from exports to fuel domestic electricity generation. The 2009 cable says analysts believe "a civilian nuclear program ... is the only possibility the Kingdom has to generate sufficient electricity to meet projected demand from economic and population growth and increasing affluence without wastefully burning large quantities of fuel oil." Last year Saudi Arabia announced plans to built two nuclear power plants.
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U.S. cables from Saudi Arabia in 2007 were released by WikiLeaks .
Former Aramco executive predicted a slow decline in Saudi oil output after 2020 .
Sadad al-Husseini disagreed with estimate of as many as 300 billion barrels of reserves .
2009 cable cites analysts who say nuclear power is kingdom's only recourse to meet demand .
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By . Steve Doughty . More than 500 local council managers were paid more than the Prime Minister last year, according to an analysis of town hall fat cat pay yesterday. Those pocketing more than David Cameron’ s £142,500 salary included council chief executives who would once have carried the title town clerk, and officials responsible for handling schools budgets, running subsidised social housing and organising rubbish bin collections. Around half of the 542 council staff earning more than £150,000 did so through their basic salary alone while the rest added it when pension payments, bonuses, expenses or redundancy pay-offs were also included. More than 30 employees are paid over £250,000 to work in town halls like this one in Essex (File photo) And 34 council employees were paid more than £250,000 in all during the financial year 2012/3, According to the latest Town Hall Rich List produced by the TaxPayers’ Alliance (TPA). It suggests that four years of strict curbs on council tax rises and tighter controls on local government spending have yet to undo the damage caused by the high pay spiral that gripped town halls under the Tony Blair and Gordon Brown administrations. Council managers grabbed repeated major pay increases, claiming they had rare and special skills, and councils raced to pay more for senior officials than their neighbours, in the hope of getting better managers. The findings, based on the accounts published by every council, show that there were 2,181 employees who topped the £100,000 mark for total remuneration during the year. The figure showed a drop of five per cent on the 2,295 recorded as over £100,000 in the previous year. But still 93 local authorities managed to post an increase in their number of £100,000 plus staff. Researchers at the TaxPayers’ Alliance said the 2,181 figure was an under-estimate, because some councils publish accounts that make it impossible to tell high-earning council staff from high-earning school head teachers. Some high-earning council managers have been left off the list to avoid any possibility of confusion with teachers. TPA chief executive Jonathan Isaby said: ‘It is good news that the number of senior council staff making more than £100,000 a year is falling, although that may only be because many authorities have finished paying eye-watering redundancy bills. ‘Sadly, too many local authorities are still increasing the number of highly paid staff on their payroll. ‘It is particularly galling in places where councils are pleading poverty and demanding more and more in council tax. Taxpayers expect their council to be filling potholes, not pay packets. Many rank-and-file staff in local councils will be equally appalled - at a time when councils across the country are freezing pay, it appears the money they’re saving is being used to line the pockets of town hall tycoons.’ The highest salary recorded for a town hall manager that was not boosted by redundancy or other special payments last year was that of Paul Martin, the chief executive of the London borough of Wandsworth, who was paid £274,224. Fat cats: Paul Martin (left), the chief executive of the London borough of Wandsworth, was paid £274,224; Norfolk’s chief executive David White was paid £205,300, but redundancy and pension payments took his earnings in 2012/13 to £400,800 . Overall, the highest UK package was paid to David Crawford, Glasgow’s director of social care, whose redundancy package met his earnings went close to half a million pounds. Mr Crawford was paid in all £486,303. Norfolk’s chief executive David White was paid £205,300, but redundancy and pension payments took his earnings in 2012/13 to £400,800. Kent county council, long notorious for the huge salaries paid to its chief executives, also paid its second-rank managers top money, the TPA analysis showed. Its director of business strategy David Cockburn; customer and communities director Amanda Honey; education director Patrick Leeson; environment and enterprise director Mike Austerberry; and families and social care director Andrew Ireland were all on basic salaries of more than £150,000. Managers in the £200,000 plus range included Joanna Killian, chief executive of Essex, on a basic of £210,000; Hampshire chief Andrew Smith on a basic £207,372; and Surrey’s David McNulty, on £210,350 basic. Local Government Secretary Eric Pickles said that local councillors should to more to rein back excessive pay for officials. ‘I welcome this latest research from the TaxPayers’ Alliance,’ he said. ‘While it shows the cost of senior town hall pay is falling, there is still far more that local authorities can do to cut costs through consolidation of back offices, sharing services and greater transparency. ‘This Government has taken steps to open up the secret pay deals struck behind closed doors, and given elected councillors new powers to veto excessive pay and perks. But councillors now need to use these powers, and stand up for local taxpayers.’
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Half of the fat cats earning over £150,000 did so through their basic salary .
Thirty-four council employees were paid more than £250,000 .
Highest UK package went to David Crawford, Glasgow’s director of social care, whose redundancy package and earnings was £486,303 .
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122126726305eecbcb189761831f0e3e99765348
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(CNN) -- It's called "Apple picking," a growing wave of crime in which thieves target mobile devices, particularly iPhones and iPads. Now the company that gave the crime its name is taking a step to stop it, with a "kill switch"-style update aimed at making the mobile gadgets less valuable to thieves. Activation Lock will be part of iOS 7, the latest version of Apple's mobile operating system expected to roll out in the fall. The feature will require an Apple ID and password before the phone's "Find My iPhone" feature can be turned off or any data can be erased. At a keynote address opening its annual Worldwide Developers Conference, the company said the same ID and password will be needed to reactivate a device after it's been remotely erased. "We think this is going to be a really powerful theft deterrent," said Craig Federighi, a senior vice president at Apple. As mobile devices become more popular, stealing them has become a unique sort of crime that has law enforcement and government officials taking notice. In New York, a special police unit has been created to deal with stolen mobile devices. The overall crime rate in the city increased 3% last year -- but "if you subtracted just the increase in Apple product thefts, we would have had an overall decrease in crime in New York," Deputy Police Commissioner Paul Browne said. Advocates have been calling for so-called kill switch tools in all mobile devices for some time. Apple's announcement came the same week that George Gascon, the district attorney in tech hub San Francisco, plans to meet with the New York state attorney general and representatives of cell phone companies to discuss ways of discouraging mobile-device robberies. In a letter last year to the Federal Communications Commission chairman, the wireless industry's trade association released details of a voluntary effort to "help law enforcement deter smartphone theft." A major plank of that effort is the creation of a database for smartphones reported stolen. Phones on the database, which is scheduled to be up and running at the end of November, could not be activated and would not work on an LTE network in the United States.
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New iPhone "kill switch" targets crime known as "Apple picking"
Tool is part of new operating system for the iPhone .
It requires a password to deactivate "Find My Phone" or wipe data .
Mobile device theft a growing concern for law enforcement .
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122150a461e3e7b67ab30c812dc7802d6a6dc62a
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By . Katy Winter . A couple who had their first date at a theme park nine years ago have got engaged at the foot of their favourite ride. Stephen Kelly, 25, surprised his girlfriend Danielle Manton, 25, by popping the question at Thorpe Park - where they have visited on her birthday every year since their first date when they were seventeen. Danielle was stunned when Stephen got down on one knee at the bottom of their favourite ride - Nemesis Inferno - surrounded by her closest friends and family. Stephen got down on one knee at the foot of their favourite ride Nemesis Inferno, surrounded by friends and family . A delighted Danielle said yes and the pair hope to hold their reception at Thorpe Park . Stephen says of his choice of venue: 'Thorpe Park is such a special place for us, it just felt right to do it then and there' Stephen and Danielle had their very first date at Thorpe Park at the tender age of 17 having met in college . Stephen and Danielle, pictured here on their first date, have revisited the park every year since on Danielle's birthday . The couple from Poole, Dorset, met in psychology class at school and bonded over their love of roller-coasters. Eventually 17-year-old Danielle plucked up courage to ask Stephen to visit Thorpe Park with her for her birthday. Danielle, who has two daughters with Stephen, said: 'I met Stephen at school and instantly fell in love with him - I really wanted to ask him on a date, but didn't have a clue how to do it, or where to go. 'I suggested Thorpe Park, my favourite place in the world and he said yes, I was so excited I could hardly contain myself - we arranged to go for my birthday. Danielle, pictured with Stephen on their first date, both aged 17, said she fancied him from the moment they met . 'I spent the car journey with my stomach in knots, not because I was scared of the coasters, but because I was sat next to him. 'We arrived, and the first ride we went on was Nemesis Inferno - we got together at the end of that day - just after riding Nemesis Inferno for the last time.' Since that day the couple have returned to the park on the 11th of May every year, now with their two daughters, Bella, four and Connie, eight-months-old. Stephen, who waited until he had completed his apprenticeship as a carpenter before proposing, planned the stunt in secret and invited the couple's closest friends and family to meet them as they came off the ride. Stephen said: 'Danielle had no idea at all, I've been waiting so long to propose - it had to be in the right place at the right time. Stephen, Danielle and their two children Connie (L) and Bella at a friends wedding. The pair waited until they could afford to get engaged . The family now make their annual pilgrimage to Thorpe Park together, and Bella even helped her father with the proposal . 'I thought about doing it at the theatre, but Thorpe Park is such a special place for us, it just felt right to do it then and there. 'My daughter was there and she told Danielle to close her eyes and open her hands, when she opened her eyes I was down on one knee.' Stephen and Danielle are now hoping to hold their wedding reception at the park - which nine years later remains one of their favourite places. Danielle said: 'I fell pregnant with my first daughter Bella when I was still at university and it was really hard - without my great friends and Stephen I wouldn't have been able to get through it. 'We have always struggled with money and being able to afford to get engaged is a massive step for us. 'When Stephen proposed I couldn't believe this amazing thing was happening - we are both incredibly happy and excited to get married.' A spokesperson for Thorpe Park said: 'We were thrilled to hear that Thorpe Park has played such a romantic part in Danielle and Steve's engagement and we're speaking to them about their wedding day plans and a honeymoon in our new Thorpe Park hotel.'
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Stephen and Danielle met at college at the age of 17 .
Couple have visited the amusement park every year for nine years .
Stephen invited their closest friends and family to meet them .
They plan to have their wedding reception at the park .
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