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Knowing the Law: What Are the Main Differences Between Scheduled and Unscheduled Injuries?

Dana R
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Knowing the Law: What Are the Main Differences Between Scheduled and Unscheduled Injuries?

Have you been injured on the job? If so, you know how difficult it is to trust those inserting themselves into the situation. This is particularly true if you’re a civilian contractor with a Defense Base Act case.

In these cases, the insurance company will send adjusters and nurse case managers, all of whom try to persuade you to say and do certain things, including going along with their own attorney. You best course of action is to dedicate yourself to recovering, stay mum, and educate yourself on the law. That begins with the basics, like the difference between scheduled and unscheduled injuries.

Unscheduled Injuries

Both scheduled and unscheduled injuries are types of permanent disabilities. They are defined in Section 8 of the Defense Base Act.

Unscheduled injuries are also known as non-scheduled injuries. Unscheduled injuries that occur at work often pertain to pain and conditions which affect mobility and basic function. The most common areas which present unscheduled injuries would be the neck and head, back, or shoulder.

Once you have sustained this type of injury, it isn’t all about how many weeks you should be compensated for. Instead, your remaining abilities are assessed to see what your post-injury earning capacity is.

In any DBA claim, the first step is getting as well as possible. All assessments and determinations have to take place after you’ve recovered to the maximum. This post-injury earning capacity is compared to your pre-injury earnings to see if the injury has caused a deficit.

If your earning capacity has been reduced as a result of the accident, injury, or work-related condition, you might be eligible for Permanent Partial Disability (PPD).

Image result for Injuries

Scheduled Injuries

Scheduled injuries are typically disabilities that one would notice by looking at you; they can involve the loss of a digit or limb. However, disabilities that can sometimes be considered “invisible”, like vision or hearing loss, fall under the scheduled injury umbrella as well.

Like unscheduled injuries, the first course of action is to recover to your new best capacity. This is why it’s always important to keep your doctor’s appointments, and follow instructions to the letter, if possible.

But unlike unscheduled injuries, scheduled injuries involve determining how many weeks or months you are eligible for compensation. Once you’ve recuperated, a doctor will figure out what your impairment rating is. This rating is used to figure out your Permanent Partial Disability duration.

Underpayment is rampant among scheduled injuries, so it’s vital that you have the best lawyer to represent your Defense Base Act case. A good attorney will help ensure the insurance company doesn’t underpay you, and can also help you learn more about what else you may be entitled to, such as training that can help you get back to work. They can even team up with you to dispute findings.

These kinds of worker compensation claims can be really tough to navigate, especially when the insurance company has sent so many people your way to throw the case off. With respect to DBA cases, any old worker’s compensation lawyer won’t do – locate a firm that has experience with scheduled and unscheduled injuries.

Hawaii: Kilauea Volcano’s Explosive Eruption Sends Ash 30,000Ft into Sky

Nancy Clayson
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Hawaii: Kilauea Volcano’s Explosive Eruption Sends Ash 30,000Ft into Sky

Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano has erupted again sending ash 30,000ft into the sky.

According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the explosive eruption took place at 04:15 local time.

Staff at the volcano observatory and the national park had previously been evacuated.

Since a new zone of Mount Kilauea began erupting almost two weeks ago, lava has wrecked dozens of homes and forced hundreds of people to be evacuated.

A red aviation code had already been issued – warning pilots to avoid the potentially damaging ash cloud.

Image source Wikipedia

Hawaii Activates Nuclear Attack Warning Siren for First Time since Cold War

Turrialba Volcano Ash Covers Central Costa Rica

The USGS had previously warned that an explosive eruption at Kilauea was becoming more likely as the volcano’s lava lake was lowering.

This increases the risk of highly explosive steam-powered eruptions as the magma meets underground water.

Meanwhile, Hawaii’s emergency management agency advised people in the area affected by ash to stay in their homes if possible.

Kilauea is one of five active volcanoes on the island of Hawaii.

The volcano is one of the most active in the world and has been erupting continuously, though not explosively, for more than 30 years.

Kilauea’s last explosive eruption took place in 1924.

Even before May 17 explosive eruption, the ash plume from the volcano could be seen from the International Space Station (ISS).

President Trump Officially Discloses Stormy Daniels Payment

Diane A. Wade
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President Trump Officially Discloses Stormy Daniels Payment

President Donald Trump has officially disclosed his reimbursement to Michael Cohen, the lawyer who paid actress Stormy Daniels to hush up her claims of an affair.

The Office of Government Ethics found on Wednesday that Donald Trump ought to have revealed the payment in his previous financial disclosure.

The filing shows Donald Trump paid Michael Cohen between $100,001 and $250,000 for expenses incurred in 2016.

President Trump previously denied knowing of the $130,000 payment to Stormy Daniels.

The White House stated in a footnote to the filing that it was listing the payment “in the interest of transparency”, and contended it did not have to make the disclosure.

However, the head of the Office of Government Ethics (OGE) wrote in a letter that “the payment made by Michael Cohen is required to be reported” in the liabilities section of the statement.

In his letter to Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, the OGE acting director said: “You may find the disclosure relevant to any inquiry you may be pursuing.”

The deputy attorney general is overseeing the DoJ investigation into whether Trump aides colluded with alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 US presidential election.

Image source Wikipedia

President Trump Reimbursed Michael Cohen for Stormy Daniels Hush Money, Says Rudy Giuliani

Stormy Daniels Lawsuit against Michael Cohen Put on Hold for 90 Days

Michael Cohen’s Documents to Be Reviewed by Special Master Barbara Jones

Russia Denies Claims Its Intelligence Has Donald Trump Compromising Info

The Stormy Daniels payment is a potential legal problem for the president because it could be seen as an illegal campaign contribution.

Michael Cohen, whose records relating to the settlement were seized in an FBI raid last month, is now reportedly under criminal investigation.

Stormy Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, alleges that she and Donald Trump had been in a hotel room in Lake Tahoe, a resort area between California and Nevada, in 2006. Michael Cohen said his client “vehemently denies” the claim.

If Stormy Daniels’ account is true, the tryst would have happened just a few months after Melania Trump gave birth to her son, Barron, whose father is Donald Trump.

Last month, President Trump said he was unaware Michael Cohen had paid Stormy Daniels just before the 2016 election.

Donald Trump’s payment to Michael Cohen was first confirmed two weeks ago by Rudy Giuliani, another of the president’s attorneys, in a TV interview.

Rudy Giuliani said the transaction was to keep Stormy Daniels quiet about her “false and extortionist accusation” that she had an affair with Donald Trump, suggesting her claim could have damaged his candidacy.

Later that week, President Trump said the newly hired Rudy Giuliani needed time to “get his facts straight”.

On May 16, the Senate Intelligence Committee backed up the American intelligence community’s findings that Russia interfered in the 2016 US election to help Donald Trump.

The panel’s assessment contradicts a conclusion in March by the House Intelligence Committee rejecting allegations that Russia had aimed to boost Donald Trump’s chances.

Donald Trump’s financial disclosure shows millions in 2017 income from rents, licenses, book and TV royalties, company shares, hotel management fees and golf courses, with interests from India to Dubai.

Trump’s Washington hotel in a former Post Office building brought in more than $40 million in 2017, its first full year in operation.

His golf courses, including the Mar-a-Lago retreat in Palm Beach, did not appear to see major gains, despite frequent visits from the president.

Mar-a-Lago contributed $25 million in income, compared with about $37 million on the previous report.

President Trump reported royalties from his 1987 book The Art of the Deal in the same $100,000-$1 million range as he did last year – and sales for some of his lesser titles picked up.

Many of Donald Trump’s shareholdings are in mutual and index funds, rather than the cross-section of American companies he once owned.

Understanding Legal Terminology

Nancy Clayson
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Understanding Legal Terminology
Image source Max Pixel

It can sometimes feel like lawyers and judges are talking in another language. In actuality, basic legal terminology is pretty easy to understand once you’ve been in court a few times and seen how things work. Context matters a lot, and so observing court proceedings is a great way to get an introduction to the legal world. However, most of us have better things to do than hang around a courthouse for hours on end, and TV shows don’t always do the best job of painting an accurate portrait of the legal system.

The meaning of guilt and innocence

There are multiple types of lawyers for multiple types of court, but we tend to pay the most attention to things that happen in criminal court. In criminal court, you’ll hear terms like plaintiff and defendant.  A plaintiff is the person or party bringing the case. So if a case were called “State of Washington v. John Doe,” then the State of Washington is the one bringing the charges. John Doe is the defendant, meaning he must defend himself against the charges. However, the burden of proof lies with the prosecuting attorneys who work for the state. You may have noticed that a jury will declare someone “not guilty” rather than “innocent.” See, the prosecution has to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. That means the jury should have more to go on than just, “I don’t like that guy’s tie; he must be guilty.”

Sometimes juries struggle to define “reasonable doubt,” because different people have different definitions of a “reasonable person.” Typically speaking, though, arguments like, “My evil twin did it and framed me,” aren’t going to fly in most courtrooms unless something else is seriously wrong with the prosecution’s case. A competent criminal defense law firm can generally come up with a better defense than one involving secret evil twins. If they can’t, most good lawyers will try to talk to prosecutors and get a plea deal for their client. In a plea deal, prosecutors and defense attorneys meet in the middle, often by having the defendant plead guilty to a lesser charge.

Immigration courts

It’s easy to think of immigration court as a type of criminal court, especially since the people who appear there can be held in a detention center beforehand. However, if someone is pulled over for drunk driving and then found to be in the country without documentation, then they must be handed over to immigration authorities before they can be deported, and immigration court is considered civil, rather than criminal. State prosecutors will charge the person for drunk driving, and they will have the right to a public defender if they can’t afford to hire their own attorney. Someone appearing in immigration court, though, has no right to their own counsel. There are activist groups that work to provide immigrants with lawyers free of charge, or pro bono, but those groups don’t have endless resources. Immigration courts aren’t considered part of the judicial branch of government, either; instead, they’re overseen by the U.S. Justice Department, and Attorney General Jeff Sessions has received some pushback on his plan to speed up immigration court proceedings.

The best time to address an immigration issue is before an arrest. That may not always be possible, especially in cases where people’s parents brought them to America as children, but if, for instance, you’re a Canadian who is trying to immigrate to America, contact an immigration lawyer in Toronto prior to crossing the border. It’s a complicated, confusing system that often bears little resemblance to other kinds of court.

North Korea May Pull Out of Trump-Kim Summit

Roy Siemens
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North Korea May Pull Out of Trump-Kim Summit

North Korea has threatened to pull out of a summit with President Donald Trump if the US insists it gives up its nuclear weapons.

The highly anticipated meeting between President Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is due to take place on June 12.

However, in an angry statement, North Korea’s vice-foreign minister accused the US of making reckless statements and of harboring sinister intentions.

Kim Kye-gwan pointed the finger squarely at US National Security Adviser John Bolton.

He said: “We do not hide our feeling of repugnance towards him.”

The groundbreaking agreement for Kim Jong-un and Donald Trump to meet came about as North Korea said it was committed to denuclearizing the Korean peninsula.

Photo AP

President Trump Welcomes Three American Detainees Freed by North Korea

Donald Trump to Meet Kim Jong-un in Singapore on June 12

Exactly what that would entail has remained unclear, but North Korea has invited foreign media to witness the dismantling of its main nuclear test site later this month.

John Bolton recently said North Korea could follow a “Libya model” of verifiable denuclearization, but this alarms Pyongyang, which watched Libya’s Colonel Gaddafi give up his nuclear program only for him to be killed by Western-backed rebels a few years later.

Kim Kye-gwan’s statement, carried by North Korea’s state media, said that if the US “corners us and unilaterally demands we give up nuclear weapons we will no longer have an interest in talks” and “will have to reconsider” attending the June 12 summit in Singapore.

The official said North Korea did have “high hopes” but that it was “very unfortunate that the US is provoking us ahead of the summit by spitting out ludicrous statements”.

He is known to be highly respected in the North Korean leadership and has taken part in negotiations with the US before. There is very little chance Kim Kye-gwan;s comments were not personally endorsed by Kim Jong-un.

Hours before the announcement, in a sign of growing problems, Pyongyang has also pulled out of a meeting scheduled with South Korea on May 16 because of anger over the start of US-South Korean joint military drills.

Pyonyang had earlier said it would allow them to go ahead, but then called them “a provocative military ruckus” which was undermining its diplomatic efforts.

The sudden change in tone from North Korea is said to have taken US officials by surprise. Analysts said Pyongyang could be trying to strengthen its hand before talks.

The US state department said it was continuing to plan the Trump-Kim meeting, and President Trump is yet to comment.

Vladimir Putin Inaugurates Kerch Strait Bridge Between Russia and Crimea

Diane A. Wade
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Vladimir Putin Inaugurates Kerch Strait Bridge Between Russia and Crimea

Russian President Vladimir Putin has inaugurated a highly controversial bridge between the mainland Russia and annexed Crimea.
The $3.7 billion bridge has been a flagship political project for Russia as it seeks to cement its hold on to the territory it annexed from Ukraine in 2014.
The Kerch Strait bridge was opened in a typically hands-on fashion by the Russian leader. By driving a truck.

Image source kremlin.ru

Vladimir Putin admits Crimea annexation plot before referendum

The 12 mile (19km)-bridge, now the longest in Europe, is the only direct road link with Russia. It links Russia’s Krasnodar region with Crimean peninsula. Its opening marks the physical “reunification” of Crimea with Russia mainland.
Once fully completed, the road and rail link will be able to handle 40,000 cars a day and to move 14 million passengers and 13 million tons of cargo per year, according to RIA Novosti.
Russian special forces seized Crimea in a lightning operation in February 2014. The West responded with crippling economic sanctions.

Prince Harry’s Wedding: Meghan Markle’s Father Will Not Attend Due to Heart Surgery

Lisa.Felice
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Prince Harry’s Wedding: Meghan Markle’s Father Will Not Attend Due to Heart Surgery

Meghan Markle’s father will not attend her wedding to Prince Harry on May 19, as it is reported he is due to have heart surgery.

Thomas Markle had told TMZ he would not go amid a row over paparazzi photographs; then that he would; then that he could not, due to a planned heart procedure.

Kensington Palace declined to comment.

Meghan Markle’s estranged half-sister, Samantha, said he had faced an “unbelievable stress”.

Speaking to Australia’s Sunrise morning TV program from Orlando, Florida, Samantha Markle said she was not sure if Thomas Markle would be travelling to Windsor.

She said: “He sent me a message that he was undergoing heart surgery.

“We’re all hoping he pulls through this now.”

Image source Getty Image

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Wedding to Be Held at Windsor Castle in May 2018

Thomas Markle became embroiled in controversy at the weekend, following reports that he staged paparazzi photographs of himself in the run-up to the wedding.

The pictures showed Thomas Markle – apparently unaware he was being photographed – in a series of wedding-related activities, including being measured for a wedding suit.

Samantha Markle, who has not spoken to her famous sibling in three years – and will not be attending the wedding – told Good Morning Britain the photographs had been done with “good intention” and not for money.

She previously admitted the pictures had been her idea, in order to portray a positive image.

On May 14, Thomas Markle reportedly told TMZ that he would not attend the wedding.

TMZ later reported that Meghan Markle’s father had and wanted to attend – although he might not be able to because of health concerns.

In a third report, TMZ said that the health issues and planned surgery would prevent him from attending after all.

Thomas Markle had been due to meet Prince Harry for the first time this week, as well as Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, before walking his daughter down the aisle at St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle.

First Lady Melania Trump Hospitalized for Kidney Surgery

Nancy Clayson
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First Lady Melania Trump Hospitalized for Kidney Surgery

President Donald Trump’s wife, Melania, has undergone surgery for what the White House described as a benign kidney condition.

The first lady’s office said surgeons had performed an embolization procedure at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

According to her spokeswoman, the surgery was successful and there were no complications.

Stephanie Grisham said in a statement: “The first lady looks forward to a full recovery so she can continue her work on behalf of children everywhere.”

Image source Wikimedia

Melania Trump Rejects Claims She Violated Immigration Laws

Did Melania Trump Plagiarize Michelle Obama’s 2008 Democratic Convention Speech?

Melania Trump, 48, is expected to spend the rest of the week recovering at the medical center, in Bethesda, Maryland.

President Trump tweeted that he was on his way to visit her: “Heading over to Walter Reed Medical Center to see our great First Lady, Melania. Successful procedure, she is in good spirits. Thank you to all of the well-wishers!”

According to specialists, embolization is most often used to block the blood supply to a tumor, benign or cancerous.

Last week, Melania Trump unveiled a “Be Best” initiative aimed at teaching children the importance of social, emotional and physical health.

The first lady said the campaign aimed to promote healthy living and to combat opioid abuse.

Three Key Points to Remember When Dealing with A Car Wreck Case

Dana R
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Three Key Points to Remember When Dealing with A Car Wreck Case

Each year, vehicle collisions seriously injure or kill millions of Americans. These individuals must deal with high medical bills and a sudden loss of income, in addition to the pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment in life, and emotional distress often associated with a serious car crash.

As soon as the other drivers call their insurance companies, a team of lawyers begins working to deny the victims compensation for the aforementioned losses. A dedicated attorney levels the playing field by serving as a strong voice for you in court. Your lawyer also gives you solid legal advice throughout the process. Here are a few ways you can help your attorney build the strongest case possible in court.

Stay Quiet

Do not debate fault or other issues with the first responder or the other driver. There is a time and place for such debate, and the accident scene is the wrong time and the wrong place. Let your attorney do the arguing for you.

Do not post items on social media or talk to the other driver’s insurance company. Many people unintentionally make damaging statements in these postings and conversation. Because of an exception to the hearsay rule, insurance company lawyers can often use these statements against you.

For the same reason, do not say “I’m sorry” even if you feel you are completely at fault. To express empathy and compassion, say something like “How can I help you?” or “I’m sorry this accident happened to you.”

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Collect Evidence

The first responder at a Cleveland car crash almost always files an accident report, talks to witnesses, and performs some other similar tasks. But first responders are at the scene to secure the area and tend to injured victims. They are not there to collect evidence for a future plaintiff in a future lawsuit.

So, the bulk of this responsibility may fall upon you. Even the most dedicated attorneys cannot be at the scene in the immediate wake of a crash. Concentrate on items like:

  • The location of nearby surveillance cameras,
  • The names of as many witnesses as possible, and
  • Photographs of physical damage.

The first few hours after the crash are critical. After that, this evidence becomes harder and harder to obtain.

See a Doctor Right Away

The adrenaline rush s so strong after an accident that many people “feel fine” even though they are seriously injured. Always go to a doctor immediately if at all possible. A doctor can properly diagnose your injuries and begin aggressive treatment as necessary. That includes injuries unique to car crashes, like whiplash. Furthermore, if you put it off, the insurance company may later dispute the nature and extent of your injuries.

An attorney can arrange for victims to receive qualified medical care from an accident specialist. Furthermore, an attorney usually sends a letter of protection to the provider. So, the victim must pay nothing upfront.

If you were hurt in an accident, reach out to https://tittlelawfirm.com/ or another qualified attorney right away.

Jerusalem Embassy: Dozens Killed in Gaza Clashes as US Opens Embassy

Roy Siemens
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Jerusalem Embassy: Dozens Killed in Gaza Clashes as US Opens Embassy

More than 40 Palestinians have been killed and 1,800 wounded by Israeli troops in clashes on the Gaza border, Palestinian officials say.

The clashes took place as the US opened its embassy in Jerusalem, a controversial move that has infuriated Palestinians.

Palestinians see the move as a clear US backing for Israeli rule over the whole city, whose eastern part they lay claim to.

President Donald Trump sent a video message to the opening ceremony, saying Jerusalem move had been a “long time coming”.

The president said: “Israel is a sovereign nation with the right to determine its own capital, but for many years we failed to recognize the obvious.”

Image source Wikimedia

US Embassy to Open in Jerusalem

Donald Trump’s Jerusalem Announcement Sparks Protests in Occupied West Bank

Donald Trump’s Jerusalem Announcement Sparks Outrage in Arab World

President Donald Trump Recognizes Jerusalem as Israel’s Capital

He assured the US remained “committed to facilitating a lasting peace agreement”.

Palestinians hurled stones and incendiary devices while the Israeli military used snipers, as black smoke poured from burning tires.

The Hamas-run health ministry said children were among those killed on May 14.

The mass demonstrations, led by Gaza’s Islamist rulers, Hamas, are part of a six-week protest dubbed the “Great March of Return”.

Israel’s army said 35,000 Palestinians were taking part in “violent riots” along the security fence and that its troops were operating “in accordance with standard procedures”.

It said it had killed three people trying to plant explosives near the security fence in Rafah.

Scores of Palestinians have been killed since the protests began. Thousands more have been wounded.

US Embassy to Open in Jerusalem

Diane A. Wade
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US Embassy to Open in Jerusalem

The US is moving its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

Top US officials will attend the opening ceremony of the new embassy, including President Trump’s daughter Ivanka and her husband, Jared Kushner.

The move is praised by Israel but condemned by Palestinians who are gathering for mass protests. Palestinians seek East Jerusalem as their own future capital, and see the US move as backing Israeli control over the whole city.

For its part, Israel considers all of Jerusalem as its indivisible capital.

Last year, President Donald Trump’s decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital broke with decades of American neutrality on the issue, and put it at odds with most of the international community.

Image source Wikimedia

Donald Trump’s Jerusalem Announcement Sparks Protests in Occupied West Bank

Donald Trump’s Jerusalem Announcement Sparks Outrage in Arab World

President Donald Trump Recognizes Jerusalem as Israel’s Capital

A small interim embassy will start operating on May 14 inside the existing US consulate building in Jerusalem.

A larger site will be found later when the rest of the embassy moves from Tel Aviv.

The opening ceremony was brought forward to coincide with the state of Israel’s 70th anniversary.

President Donald Trump is expected to address those attending May 14 event via video link.

Alongside senior White House advisers Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan will be at the ceremony.

The EU has voiced strong objections to the embassy move.

Israel’s PM Benjamin Netanyahu called on “all countries to join the US in moving their embassies to Jerusalem”.

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has described President Trump’s decision as the “slap of the century”.

Thousands of Palestinians are gathering for a protest along the perimeter fence that separates Israel and the Gaza Strip on May 14.

The timing of the embassy move has led to concerns about increased tension in Gaza.

Since the end of March, more than 40 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli soldiers in protests at the border.

UN human rights chief Zeid Ra’ad al-Hussein has accused Israel of using “excessive force”.

Israel maintains it has acted legitimately to protect its civilians from militants trying to breach the border.

Paris Mass Stabbing: One Killed and Four Wounded in Place De L’Opera Knife Attack

Roy Siemens
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Paris Mass Stabbing: One Killed and Four Wounded in Place De L’Opera Knife Attack

A 29-year-old man has been killed and other four people wounded in a knife attack in the busy Opéra district of Paris on May 12.

According to witnesses, the suspect had shouted “Allahu Akbar” (God is greatest) before being shot dead by police.

ISIS later said one of its “soldiers” had carried out the attack.

France has been on high alert following a series of attacks in Paris and Lyon. More than 230 people have been killed by ISIS-inspired jihadists in the past three years.

Security forces have identified the attacker as being born in 1997 in the Russian republic of Chechnya, although he was not carrying any identification papers and has not been officially named. Chechnya is a republic in the North Caucasus region of southern Russia.

The republic declared independence in 1991 but Russian troops invaded in 1994 to quash it, sparking a decade-long conflict.

Image source Wikimedia

Paris Attack: Gunman Shoots Dead Police Officer on Champs Elysees

How Paris Attacks Impact France’s Service Sector

Jihadist groups, including those aligned with ISIS, have long operated in the region.

The judicial source told French media the suspect had no criminal record and that his parents had been held for questioning. Another source told Reuters the suspect was not previously known to police.

The suspect is believed to be a French national.

This is thought to be the first time an assailant of Chechen origin has carried out a terrorist attack in France.

France is home to some 30,000 people of Chechen origin.

France’s Interior Minister Gérard Collomb said the man who died was a 29-year-old passer-by, but gave no further details.

The four who were injured have also not yet been named. AFP news agency, citing sources, said a 34-year-old man and a 54-year-old woman were seriously hurt, while a 26-year-old woman and a 31-year-old man were slightly wounded.

Gérard Collomb said none had life-threatening injuries.

The attacker began stabbing passers-by at about 21:00 local time.

Eyewitnesses described him as a young man with brown hair and a beard, dressed in black tracksuit trousers.

The attacker tried to enter several bars and restaurants but was blocked by people inside.

Police first tried to stop the assailant with a stun-gun before shooting him dead, nine minutes after he began the attack.

Malaysia: Former PM Najib Razak Barred from Leaving the Country

Diane A. Wade
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Malaysia: Former PM Najib Razak Barred from Leaving the Country

According to Malaysian immigration official, former PM Najib Razak has been banned from leaving the country.

The ban comes after Najib Razak said that he and his wife were planning to go on an overseas holiday on May 12.

Earlier this week, Najib Razak’s long-ruling Barisan Nasional coalition suffered a shock electoral defeat.

Najib Razak has been accused of diverting $700 million from a state investment fund in 2015, but has since been cleared by the authorities.

However, Malaysia’s new PM Mahathir Mohamad, who at 92 became the world’s oldest elected leader when he was sworn in on May 10, has said that Najib Razak could face a fresh investigation if sufficient evidence supports it.

Mahathir Mohamad has said that investigations will take place into alleged corruption in Malaysia, including the case involving the state investment fund.

He stood down as prime minister 15 years ago, but came out of retirement and defected to the opposition to take on and beat former protégé Najib Razak.

Photo AP

Malaysia PM Najib Razak Cleared of Corruption

Malaysia Protests: Bersih Activists Call for PM Najib Razak to Resign over Financial Scandal

Mahathir Mohamad appears to be making good on a promise, made during his election, to release imprisoned former political leader Anwar Ibrahim.

On May 12, Anwar Ibrahim’s daughter, Nurul Izzah, confirmed reports that her father will “receive a full royal pardon” and is due to be released on May 15.

Anwar Ibrahim was once Mahathir Mohamad’s deputy, but was jailed on widely-criticized charges of sodomy and corruption amid bitter tensions between the two men.

Najib Razak tweeted that he had been informed by the immigration authorities that he and his family would not be allowed to travel abroad.

The former prime minister gave no reasons for the authorities’ decision, but said he would abide by it.

Najib Razak, 64, has also announced he is quitting as chairman of the Barisan Nasional coalition and as president of his United Malay National Organization party.

He had said earlier that he and his wife Rosmah Mansor would go on a holiday on May 12.

It is believed they intended to fly to Indonesian capital, Jakarta.

Najib Razak had faced accusations of corruption and mismanagement over the state investment fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).

The scandal has gripped the country for years.

1MDB, set up by Najib Razak in 2009, was meant to turn Kuala Lumpur into a financial hub and boost the economy through strategic investments.

However, the fund started to attract negative attention in early 2015 after it missed payments for some of the $11 billion it owed to banks and bondholders.

Then the Wall Street Journal reported it had seen a paper trail that allegedly traced close to $700 million from the fund to Najib Razak’s personal bank accounts.

Najib Razak has consistently denied taking money from 1MDB or any public funds.

Health First: 4 Things to Do If You’ve Been Exposed to Asbestos

Dana R
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Health First: 4 Things to Do If You’ve Been Exposed to Asbestos

Science has made it clear that Asbestos is a highly toxic element that was once filtered through concrete buildings around the world. In fact, it is carcinogenic—can cause cancer, most prominently, mesothelioma which doctor’s view as one of the worst forms of cancer.

Mesothelioma has quite a long latency span (around 25– 50 years) which makes treating it quite a challenge. Soon after diagnosis, a victim is given a 12-21-month life expectancy. The fact that our body senses can’t easily detect asbestos is what makes it a menacing threat to human health. It has no smell detectable smell and does irritate the skin when in contact. What’s more, it can spread very easily through the air and therefore can only be removed by specialists.

So, before you even start looking for an experienced lawyer for asbestos exposure, here is a guide on what to do in the event you get exposed to the harmful asbestos.

Image source Wikimedia

What to Do:

  1. If Asbestos Particles Contaminate Your Eye

One thing; asbestos dust will cause a sting in the eye but rubbing your eyes won’t help. So, if your eyes get contaminated with asbestos particles, then your first move should be to immediately flush with gently running lukewarm water for not less than 5 minutes. You can also flush the water using your clean hands. If irritation persists, visit a doctor ASAP.

  1. In case you breathe in Asbestos particles

Unfortunately, there’s no known way to expel asbestos dust from your system once it gets in. But the huge motivation is the fact that you can take steps to moderate the risk.

First, you need to flee from the contaminated area as soon as you can so you don’t get exposed for a very long time. Find an open space with clean and fresh air.

Tip: If you intend to rescue someone who has been exposed to the dangerous asbestos particles then it is important that you protect yourself first by putting on protective equipment.

  1. If Asbestos Dust gets in contact with your skin

The first step is to immediately get away from the contaminated area. And because asbestos dust might have also contaminated your clothing, it is advisable to gently remove them and have them kept in a sealed synthetic bag.

Next, you might need to take not less than 5 minutes in the shower to ensure your skin is thoroughly washed. Be sure to strictly use mild soap, and at all costs, do not rub your skin. Also, make sure the shower is continuously flowing, so you thoroughly wash the asbestos dust away.

  1. If you unintentionally Ingest Asbestos Fibres

Rinse your mouth repeatedly with clean water. If you feel unwell, be sure to call a physician or poison control without delay.

As it reveals in the above guide, you first thing to do when you get exposed to response to asbestos exposure should be to immediately leave the contaminated place. Experts insist on this because the longer you get exposed, the greater the risk of developing more asbestos-related diseases.  

Lastly, once you’ve conducted the first aid response, it is wise to seek a doctor’s medical advice.

Donald Trump to Meet Kim Jong-un in Singapore on June 12

Roy Siemens
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Donald Trump to Meet Kim Jong-un in Singapore on June 12

President Donald Trump has announced he will meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Singapore on 12 June.

The president tweeted: “We will both try to make it a very special moment for World Peace!”

Two months ago, President Trump stunned the world by accepting an invitation to meet Kim Jong-un for an unprecedented sit-down.

Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un had previously exchanged insults and threats. The breakthrough came after landmark talks between North Korea and South Korea.

The president’s announcement came hours after he welcomed home three American detainees released by North Korea.

Their release came during a visit to North Korea by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to arrange details of the meeting between Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un.

Photo AP

President Trump Welcomes Three American Detainees Freed by North Korea

Mike Pompeo Makes Second Visit to North Korea Ahead of Trump-Kim Summit

CIA Director Mike Pompeo Had Secret Meeting with Kim Jong-un in North Korea

No sitting US president has ever met a North Korean leader.

According to the White House, the American citizens detained in North Korea were freed as a gesture of goodwill ahead of the summit, which President Trump earlier said he thought would be a “big success”.

The key issue expected to be discussed is North Korea’s nuclear weapons program – over which Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un furiously sparred in 2017.

North Korea has carried out six nuclear tests since 2006, despite international condemnation and sanctions, saying it needs the weapons for its own security.

The US wants North Korea to give up its weapons program completely and irreversibly.

Ahead of the meeting, Kim Jong-un has pledged to stop nuclear tests and intercontinental ballistic missile launches, and also to shut down a nuclear test site.

However, analysts caution that Kim Jong-un is unlikely to easily abandon nuclear weapons that he has pushed so hard to obtain, and that “denuclearization” means something quite different to both sides.

The US and Singapore have a close relationship. Singapore has diplomatic ties with North Korea but suspended all trade with the country in November 2017 as international sanctions were tightened.

Other locations which had been considered for the Trump-Kim summit included Mongolia and the Korean border’s demilitarized zone (DMZ).

3 Reasons You’ll Want a Lawyer Backing You in an Injury Case

Dana R
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0
3 Reasons You’ll Want a Lawyer Backing You in an Injury Case

When accidents occur, victims usually have many questions: how do they get compensated? Should a doctor be consulted? Should a lawyer handle the case? The truth is; cases that have to do with accidents and personal injury need to be handled by attorneys. An experienced legal professional will help answer your questions and address all your concerns. Here are three reasons why a lawyer should back your case.

Denial of Liability

Insurance companies may deny a claim by stating that you were the one responsible for the accident. In most cases, these companies do so to frustrate you so you can drop your claim. However, if they realized that you are not giving up your claim, they’ll come around and offer a reasonable settlement.

If the insurance firm doesn’t change its mind regarding its denial of liability, you may seek help from an accident and injury law group. At that point, you don’t have anything to lose. If the lawyers are capable of squeezing money out of the insurance company, you’ll be in a position to get some compensation. If they work on a contingency basis and you end up not getting any compensation, then you don’t have a thing to lose since you’ll not have any attorney’s fee to pay.

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Litigation Process

In many instances involving serious injuries, a settlement from your insurance company may not be adequate to cover all your losses. As a result, you may end up filing a personal injury lawsuit. An experienced attorney can be helpful since they’ll advise if filing a lawsuit is the right step to take. Moreover, an attorney will guide you through the litigation process to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Litigation processes are often involving since they require evidence collection to support your claims as well as your losses.

You Require Advice on a Certain Legal Rule

In some cases, the failure or success of your lawsuit will depend on a particular legal rule. For instance, the decision whether or not you are to collect insurance from a company depends on whether their employee was in the line of duty when the accident occurred. There are technical rules about what the scope and course of employment are. If you get injured on the sidewalk, the aspect of liability may revolve around questions of property law.

In one of these circumstances, you may need to consult an attorney on an hourly basis to get a feel of what your legal options may be. That way, you can then decide if it’s the right choice to file a lawsuit. If your claim seems to depend on a particular legal question, it may be a good idea to hire a lawyer to guide you through the entire process.

Having an attorney in your personal injury case is always advantageous if you’ve been injured, lost wages, and have adequate medical bills to settle. If you are facing one or all of these circumstances, it makes sense to have an expert who can give you the peace of mind you need when handling cases of personal injury. The above are perhaps the best reasons why you’ll want an attorney backing your injury case.

President Trump Welcomes Three American Detainees Freed by North Korea

Diane A. Wade
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President Trump Welcomes Three American Detainees Freed by North Korea

Three American detainees, who were released by North Korea earlier, have been welcomed home by President Trump.

President Trump said it was a “special night for these really great people” as they arrived at the Andrews Air Force Base near Washington.

According to the White House, Kim Hak-song, Tony Kim and Kim Dong-chul had been freed as a gesture of goodwill ahead of the planned meeting between President Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

President Trump said he thought the summit would be “a big success”.

The date and location have been decided but not yet announced.

President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump entered the plane after it landed at about 02:45 local time and a few minutes later emerged with the three men to wave to the media.

The president said he appreciated that Kim Jong-un had allowed the men to leave as “frankly we didn’t think that was going to happen before the meeting”.

Photo AP

Mike Pompeo Makes Second Visit to North Korea Ahead of Trump-Kim Summit

CIA Director Mike Pompeo Had Secret Meeting with Kim Jong-un in North Korea

President Trump Fires Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, Naming CIA Director Mike Pompeo as Replacement

Asked if this was his proudest achievement, President Trump said that would be “when we denuclearize that entire peninsula”.

He said: “It’s a great honor. But the true honor is going to be if we have a victory in getting rid of nuclear weapons.”

Of the upcoming summit, President Trump said: “I think that we’re going to have… a very big success… I really think we have a very good chance of doing something very meaningful.”

He said he hoped he could travel to North Korea one day and that he believed Kim Jong-un wanted to bring his country “into the real world”.

The three men were smiling and waving and appeared in good health.

In an impromptu chat before the media with President Trump, Kim Dong-chul said: “It’s like a dream and we are very, very happy. We were treated in many different ways. For me, I had to do a lot of labor. But when I got sick I was also treated by them.”

Kim Hak-song, Tony Kim and Kim Dong-chul had released an earlier statement saying: “We would like to express our deep appreciation to the United States government, President Trump, Secretary [of State Mike] Pompeo and the people of the United States for bringing us home.

“We thank God and all our families and friends who prayed for us and for our return.”

The three men had been jailed for anti-state activities and placed in labor camps.

Their release came during a visit to North Korea by Mike Pompeo to arrange details of the meeting between President Trump and Kim Jong-un.

According to the North Korean state news agency KCNA, Kim Jong-un said he had accepted a US proposal to grant the three detainees an amnesty, adding that his meeting with President Trump would be an “excellent first step” towards improving the situation on the Korean peninsula.

Mike Pompeo Makes Second Visit to North Korea Ahead of Trump-Kim Summit

Roy Siemens
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Mike Pompeo Makes Second Visit to North Korea Ahead of Trump-Kim Summit

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is making a second surprise visit to North Korea, with speculation growing that he will bring home three jailed Americans.

His visit is intended to lay the groundwork for a historic summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and President Donald Trump.

Mike Pompeo told reporters he was hoping to finalize plans for talks, which are likely to focus on denuclearization.

However, the release of the detainees is a central issue for the Americans.

A South Korean presidential official told news agency Yonhap that North Korea was expected to release the US citizens as a “goodwill gesture”.

Mike Pompeo said he hoped Pyongyang would “do the right thing” and release three Americans imprisoned in North Korea.

He said: “We’ve been asking for the release of these detainees for 17 months.”

Image source Wikimedia

Mike Pompeo Confirmed as Secretary of State

CIA Director Mike Pompeo Had Secret Meeting with Kim Jong-un in North Korea

President Trump Fires Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, Naming CIA Director Mike Pompeo as Replacement

North Korea has historically used its foreign prisoners as leverage in its diplomatic dealings.

One of the detainees was jailed in 2015, the other two have been in prison for just over a year. Their convictions have been widely condemned as political and an abuse of human rights.

The last American to be freed – Otto Warmbier, who was jailed for stealing a hotel sign – was released last year but was fatally ill, and died shortly after returning home. The cause of death remains unexplained.

Mike Pompeo said a “good relationship” was formed at the first meeting in April, which marked the highest level US contact with North Korea since 2000.

A state department official travelling with Mike Pompeo said the US would also be “listening for signs from North Korea that things have substantially changed” with the nation’s nuclear ambitions.

Last month, President Trump stunned the international community by accepting North Korea’s suggestion for direct talks – it will be an unprecedented move for a sitting US president to meet a North Korean leader.

President Trump referred to Mike Pompeo’s latest visit while announcing that the US was withdrawing from the nuclear agreement with Iran.

Are You Ready to Buy a Home?

Dana R
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Are You Ready to Buy a Home?

With so much confusion surrounding the housing market today, how do you know when you’re ready to buy a home? Most Americans dream of owning a home, yet so few are able to make this dream a reality today. Buying a home is a huge financial decision. There are not only a lot of unexpected costs of owning a home, but many housing markets are expensive.

That being said, most renters are tired of throwing their money away for nothing. Buying a home means gaining equity and growing your assets. Are you ready to buy a home? This guide will discuss whether you’re ready to take this big step towards buying a home!

 

Image via Unsplash

First, How Are Your Finances?

Obviously, your first step is understanding your own financial situation. Your bank accounts can’t lie, and they’re the best source of information about whether or not you’re prepared to own a home. Do you have any debt? What kind of debt? Do you have loans? While it’s okay to have loans and some debt if you’re planning to buy a home, you need to realize how this will affect your mortgage. Use this mortgage calculator to assess your cost of buying a home with your current finances.

How is Your Credit Score?

The better your credit score, the more likely you’ll get a great rate on a home loan. While it’s possible to get a home with an average credit score, you should expect to pay a higher interest rate than those with better scores. Before buying a home you should carefully monitor your credit score! Be proactive with your credit by making large payments towards debt and checking your credit for unusual activity.

Do You Have Money for a Down Payment?

The hardest financial part about affording a home is affording a large down payment. It’s understood that the greater your down payment, the better fit you are to own a home. While you don’t need to make a 20% downpayment to afford a loan, you need to be serious with your payment. There are some options for those who are only able to pay between 3.5% and 10%, but this comes with additional insurance needs which will drive up your monthly rates. In general, you should prepare yourself with savings prior to searching for homes!

Can You Afford to Own a Home

The best part about renting a home is not worrying about unexpected payments. If something breaks, your landlord has to take care of it. When you own a home it’s all up to you. The entire home becomes your responsibility, and that can add up pretty fast depending on the age of your home. It’s impossible to prepare for the unexpected. That’s why it’s called unexpected! You need to have money put away securely to afford any unexpected surprises.

In addition to unexpected payments for repairs and maintenance, you’ll also need to afford your cost associated with buying a home. There are more things to pay than simply your down payment! Your closing costs can add up quickly, and you also need to include the cost of moving. Owning a home also comes with fees like property taxes, insurance, fees, and utilities. Really consider if you can afford this price before making that big step!

Preparing to Buy a Home

Buying a home is a big decision you shouldn’t make lightly. You’ll need to think long and hard about the reality of your financial situation. How is your credit score? Are you able to make a decent down payment? Do you have savings to pay for unexpected costs? These are all questions you need to ask before buying a home. When you’re ready, you’ll be able to make the best choice about buying a home!

President Donald Trump Pulls US Out of Iran Nuclear Deal

Roy Siemens
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0
President Donald Trump Pulls US Out of Iran Nuclear Deal

President Donald Trump has announced he will withdraw the US from an Obama-era nuclear agreement with Iran.

Calling it “decaying and rotten”, President Trump said the deal was “an embarrassment” to him “as a citizen”.

Going against advice from European allies, the president said he would re-impose economic sanctions that were waived when the deal was signed in 2015.

Iran has responded saying that it was preparing to restart uranium enrichment, key for making both nuclear energy and weapons.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said: “The US has announced that it doesn’t respect its commitments.

“I have ordered the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran to be ready to start the enrichment of uranium at industrial levels.”

Image source Flickr

Hassan Rouhani said he would “wait a few weeks” to speak to allies and the other signatories to the nuclear deal.

According to the Treasury, economic sanctions would not be re-imposed on Iran immediately, but would be subject to 90-day and 180-day wind-down periods.

In a statement on its website, the Treasury said sanctions would be re-imposed on the industries mentioned in the 2015 deal, including Iran’s oil sector, aircraft exports, precious metals trade, and Iranian government attempts to buy US dollar banknotes.

Gulf Leaders Skip Camp David Summit on Iran Deal

The UK, France and Germany – who are also signatories to the deal – have said they “regret” the American decision.

The EU’s top diplomat, Federica Mogherini, said the EU was “determined to preserve” the deal.

However, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu says he “fully supports” President Trump’s “bold” withdrawal from a “disastrous” deal.

Donald Trump had previously complained that the deal only limited Iran’s nuclear activities for a fixed period; had failed to stop the development of ballistic missiles; and had handed Iran a $100 billion windfall that it used “as a slush fund for weapons, terror, and oppression” across the Middle East.

Former Secretary of State John Kerry, who was involving in negotiating the deal, tweeted that pulling out of it risked “dragging the world back to the brink we faced a few years ago”.

The so-called Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) saw Iran agree to limit the size of its stockpile of enriched uranium – which is used to make reactor fuel, but also nuclear weapons – for 15 years and the number of centrifuges installed to enrich uranium for 10 years.

Iran also agreed to modify a heavy water facility so it could not produce plutonium suitable for a bomb.

Maurane Dies Aged 57 Days After Returning to Stage

Sonia Pantiss
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0
Maurane Dies Aged 57 Days After Returning to Stage

Belgian singer Maurane has died at the age of 57, days after she gave her first stage performance in two years.

She was found dead at her home in Schaerbeek, near Brussels, on May 7. The cause of death is not yet known but is not seen as suspicious.

Maurane was best known in recent years for her role in a TV talent show for young singers, Nouvelle Star (New Star).

The singer had been forced to halt her career in 2016 because of problems with her vocal cords.

Image source Wikimedia

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Born Claudine Luypaerts, Maurane was known across the French-speaking world and had performed with artists including Celine Dion and Johnny Hallyday.

Maurane had returned to the stage in Brussels at the weekend, taking part in a concert in tribute to the late Jacques Brel, one of Belgium’s most famous singer-songwriters. She was preparing to go on tour in spring 2019.

Only 24 hours before her death Maurane had given an interview speaking of a kind of “rebirth”, because health problems meant “I really believed for almost a year that I would never sing again”.

Maurane’s return to the stage, in a duet with young Belgian artist Typh Barrow, was widely praised.

Danser, the first of her ten solo albums, was released in 1986.

In 1991, Ami ou Ennemi sold more than 300,000 copies and received a platinum disc in France.

#MeToo: NY Attorney General Eric Schneiderman Resigns Following Assault Allegations

Diane A. Wade
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0
#MeToo: NY Attorney General Eric Schneiderman Resigns Following Assault Allegations

New York Attorney General and #MeToo supporter Eric Schneiderman has announced his resignation following allegations of assault by four women.

The New Yorker magazine published a report quoting the women, two of them his ex-girlfriends, who accused the 63-year-old of hitting them.

Eric Schneiderman has been a vocal supporter of the #MeToo movement against harassment and a fierce opponent of President Donald Trump.

In a statement, Eric Schneiderman, who “strongly contests” the allegations, said: “In the privacy of intimate relationships, I have engaged in role-playing and other consensual s**ual activity.

“I have not assaulted anyone. I have never engaged in non-consensual s**, which is a line I would not cross.”

He also said: “While these allegations are unrelated to my professional conduct or the operations of the office, they will effectively prevent me from leading the office’s work at this critical time.”

Image source Wikimedia

#MeToo: New York Attorney General Files Lawsuit Against Weinstein Company

Donald Trump sued by New York’s attorney general for phony Trump University

Eric Schneiderman became attorney general in 2010 and had intended to run for re-election to the post this year.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo had called for his resignation, following the reports.

The governor said: “No-one is above the law, including New York’s top legal officer.

“I do not believe it is possible for Eric Schneiderman to continue to serve as attorney general.”

Andrew Cuomo said he would ask a prosecutor to investigate the allegations.

One of the accusers, Michelle Manning Barish tweeted after the allegations were published: “After the most difficult month of my life – I spoke up.

“For my daughter and for all women. I could not remain silent and encourage other women to be brave for me.”

Jennifer Cunningham, Eric Schneiderman’s ex-wife, released a statement on May 7 saying: “I’ve known Eric for nearly 35 years as a husband, father, and friend… I find it impossible to believe these allegations are true.”

Last month, The New Yorker won a joint Pulitzer Prize with The New York Times for its reporting on harassment in Hollywood.

The reports brought down Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, who has denied dozens of misconduct allegations.

Alexei Navalny Arrested at Moscow Anti-Putin Rally

Diane A. Wade
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Alexei Navalny Arrested at Moscow Anti-Putin Rally

Russia’s most prominent opposition leader, Alexei Navalny, has been held at a Moscow rally two days before Vladimir Putin’s inauguration.

Alexei Navalny was carried away struggling through the crowd of demonstrators, who had gathered to protest at President Putin’s forthcoming fourth term in office.

Moscow and St Petersburg rallies were not approved by the authorities.

At least 1,000 arrests were reportedly made at rallies across Russia.

On May 6, Alexei Navalny was released from police custody after being charged with organizing a rally and resisting the police.

Protesters on Moscow’s Pushkin Square shouted slogans such as “Down with the tsar!” – “tsar” was the historical title of Russia’s pre-revolutionary emperors – and “Russia without Putin!”. In St Petersburg, Russia’s second city, they shouted “Jail the tsar!”.

Activists have been using a Russian hash tag on Twitter which translates as “He’s not our tsar”.

Image source Wikimedia

Alexei Navalny Sentenced to 30 Days Administrative Arrest

Alexei Navalny Found Guilty of Embezzlement

Meanwhile, the pro-Kremlin National Liberation Movement held a rival rally at the same location in Moscow.

Alexei Navalny, a long-time anti-corruption campaigner is not an elected politician but has led protests against the rule of Vladimir Putin and his allies since the parliamentary election of 2011.

The activist was barred from running for president against Vladimir Putin this year because of a conviction for embezzlement, which he denies, saying the case against him was politically motivated.

Alexei Navalny has been arrested at protests on numerous occasions before, and is typically held for a few weeks before being released.

Reports say he was forced to stay at a secret location on May 4 in order to make it to the Moscow rally at all.

When the Moscow city authorities warned people of possible “negative consequences” of taking part in unsanctioned rallies on May 5, Alexei Navalny tweeted back: “And I would like to warn everyone of the negative consequences of non-participation in the rallies.”

He added: “If you stay at home, Putin’s gang will tear the country apart and deprive you personally of a future.”

Vladimir Putin was re-elected president with more than 76% of the vote, his best ever election performance.

Prince Louis: Kate Middleton and Prince William Announce Royal Baby’s Name

Lisa.Felice
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Prince Louis: Kate Middleton and Prince William Announce Royal Baby’s Name

Kate Middleton and Prince William have named their third child Louis Arthur Charles.

Prince Louis was born on April 23 at the Lindo Wing of St Mary’s Hospital in London, weighing 8lb 7oz.

According to a statement issued by Kensington Palace, Kate Middleton and Prince William’s second son would be known as His Royal Highness Prince Louis of Cambridge (pronounced Lou-ee, not Lou-iss).

Image source HRH The Duchess of Cambridge

Royal Baby No. 3: Kate Middleton Gives Birth to Second Baby Boy

Prince Louis is fifth in line to the throne.

Louis is also one of the middle names of Prince William and of the new prince’s older brother, George.

It was also the first name of Lord Mountbatten – his great-great-great uncle – who was killed by the IRA in 1979.

Lord Mountbatten had a strong influence in the upbringing of great-nephew Prince Charles and was described by the latter as “the grandfather I never had”.

Arthur is also one of Prince William’s middle names, and was a middle name of King George VI – Queen Elizabeth’s father.

Roman Polanski and Bill Cosby Expelled from Motion Picture Academy

Sonia Pantiss
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0
Roman Polanski and Bill Cosby Expelled from Motion Picture Academy

The US Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has decided to expel TV star Bill Cosby and director Roman Polanski.

The academy – which runs the Oscars – said this was done in accordance with its standards of conduct.

Last month, Bill Cosby was convicted of assault last month. Roman Polanski admitted statutory rape of a 13-year-old girl in 1977.

Last year, Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein was kicked out from the academy, following numerous allegations of assault.

Neither Bill Cosby nor Roman Polanski have publicly reacted to the academy’s decision.

Bill Cosby’s wife, Camille, described his conviction as “mob justice, not real justice”.

She said: “This tragedy must be undone not just for Bill Cosby, but for the country.”

The academy made the announcement on May 3 – two days after its board members voted on the issue.

Photo AFP/Getty Images

Roman Polanski Extradition Rejected by Poland Court

Bill Cosby Retrial: Comedian Found Guilty of Assault

In a statement, the academy said its board “has voted to expel actor Bill Cosby and director Roman Polanski from its membership in accordance with the organization’s Standards of Conduct”.

The statement added: “The Board continues to encourage ethical standards that require members to uphold the Academy’s values of respect for human dignity.”

Only four people are known to have been expelled in the academy’s 91-year history.

Actor Carmine Caridi was the first actor expelled by the academy. He had his membership revoked in 2004 after he allegedly sent confidential film preview videos to a friend which ended up online.

On social media, many people have been asking what took the academy so long to take action against Roman Polanski, who has been honored in the decades since he admitted to statutory rape.

The unlawful case against Roman Polanski, now aged 84, has dragged on for more than 40 years.

He admitted unlawful relations with Samantha Geimer, who was a minor in 1977, and served 42 days in prison, but later fled the US over concern that a plea bargain deal would be scrapped.

Roman Polanski has French and Polish citizenship, and has evaded various extradition attempts by US authorities.

France – where the director lives – does not extradite its own citizens. A Polish court also rejected a US request when Roman Polanski was filming in Krakow in 2015.

The Swiss authorities also turned down a US warrant in 2010, after placing Roman Polanski under house arrest for nine months.

In 2017, Roman Polanski was picked to head the jury at the Césars, the French equivalent of the Oscars.

However, he stepped down after the move sparked outrage.

In 2017, Samantha Geimer told a US court she had forgiven Roman Polanski and wanted to move on. However, the court refused her plea.

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