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Kris Jenner show: Fake baby North West and Kim Kardashian’s dramatic hospital dash

Lisa.Felice
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Kris Jenner show: Fake baby North West and Kim Kardashian’s dramatic hospital dash

Although Kim Kardashian and Kanye West decided against debuting daughter North on the first episode of Kris Jenner’s TV show on Monday, this didn’t stop the matriarch from using the baby for ratings.

Knowing that speculation was rife that baby North West would make her first public appearance on Monday’s Fox premiere, Kris Jenner tweeted a picture of her cradling a dark-haired baby just minutes before the show started.

“You never know who will stop by our show today #watch Kris,” she wrote.

And it wasn’t until the very end of her first hour that Kris Jenner appeared with the precious tot only to hand the infant over to its mother… her stylist Monica.

The ruse finally uncovered, Kris Jenner said she wouldn’t “kidnap” Kim’s baby and insisted her daughter would be revealing the month-old in due time.

But the baby North effect had been fully exploited for promotional purposes, without her even leaving her home.

This wasn’t the only family heartstring that Kris Jenner pulled at during the show: “I promised I wouldn’t cry,” she spluttered as her daughter Khloe Kardashian shouted support from audience just seconds into the premiere.

“Thank you Khloe, you get a raise in your allowance now,” Kris Jenner – who was dressed in a favorite black and white combination – yelled back.

But then it was back to Kim as Kris Jenner dished on her dramatic labor.

Kris Jenner also shot down rumors that Kim Kardashian is in hiding under her orders so they can get raise the price of North’s first picture and laughed: “She’s free to go wherever she wants, Kim isn’t locked in the closet,” and said her daughter wouldn’t be marrying boyfriend Kanye West… in Egypt at least.

Kris Jenner tweeted a picture of her cradling a dark-haired baby just minutes before her show started
Kris Jenner tweeted a picture of her cradling a dark-haired baby just minutes before her show started

She helmed her titular hour on Fox 5 in the US with some degree of aplomb, and a very familiar narrative plot.

A black and white checked floor and spiral staircase mirroring Kris Jenner’s foyer makes her new studio instantly familiar, and of course, she was soon dishing on her famous family.

She kicked off the show by revealing the drama and secrets behind daughter Kim Kardashian’s dash to hospital on June 14 to deliver her baby daughter North five weeks early.

“How did you get Kim from home to hospital without anyone seeing?” co-host Cameron Mathison asked.

“There’s a little back story to that,” she said.

“I was doing Good Day LA, they had sent a limo for me to do it so I was offline as it’s live TV, I hate opening my Blackberry after that and then I’ve got an email from Kim marked <<urgent>>.

“For Father’s Day she had been planning this big thing for Kanye,” Kris Jenner explained.

“He’s obsessed with Apple so she wanted to get memorabilia but she had got nowhere, so she called Steve Wozniak and he said he’d bring her a mouse, drive it all the way down from San Francisco and meet Kanye for brunch.

“I thought the email was about that but when I opened it, it read: <<I have to have the baby today, get here today, fast>>.

“So I say to the limo driver, who I don’t know at all <<Sir can we make a pitstop?>> There’s 300 paps outside Kim’s house, the guy takes a detour and the paps start clicking away… the poor guy doesn’t know what’s going on.

“But we get Kim in the limo and I start trying to put the elaborate plan we had set in place for five weeks away with decoy cars and security, thinking how am I going to do this?

“I call my friend for decoy car, and the plan is we get to the hotel and switch cars.

“We go to the hotel, Kim’s under the blankets tapping away on her phone and I’m like, <<Who are you emailing?>>. <<I’m emailing Steve Wozniak>>, she said.

“<<Could we stop with the Woz!>> I told her, let’s go to the hospital!”

“We get to the hotel, and we’re so smooth but when Kim pops up, I see Steve Wozniak and his wife Janet standing in the foyer!”

“Kim then heads over like nothing’s wrong to chat to Steve and Janet, she’s acting like she’s at a cocktail party and I’m panicking.”

“Finally we get in the getaway car, and Kim lies down then yells <<Mom, hit the floor>> we’re in a Mini Coupe and there was no room, but I did it.”

“Then at the hospital, we hit the secret carpark, we head in through the secret elevator and through the kitchen and then we have a baby.”

“I went back on Father’s Day and guess who was in the room? Steve Wozniak.”

Kris Jenner didn’t go into detail about baby North West and after disappointing her audience with the baby double, told America that she wouldn’t be bringing her granddaughter onto the show.

“That would be kidnapping, I wouldn’t do it to Kim, just give her some time and peace and she’ll be out showing her off herself,” Kris Jenner continued.

Today’s Kris show was the beginning of six-week test run on America’s right-wing station, she was offered support from celebrity friends including Simon Cowell and chat show stalwart Regis Philbin in a series of short films throughout the hour.

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Vladimir Putin: Edward Snowden trapped in Russia by US authorities

Diane A. Wade
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Vladimir Putin: Edward Snowden trapped in Russia by US authorities

President Vladimir Putin has said the US authorities have in effect trapped Edward Snowden in Russia.

Vladimir Putin said fugitive whistleblower Edward Snowden would leave if he was able to.

The 30-year-old former intelligence analyst has been offered asylum in a number of Latin American states, but has no documents with which to leave the transit zone at Moscow airport.

The US has charged Edward Snowden with leaking classified information.

Vladimir Putin has refused to hand over the fugitive to the US authorities, but says he can only stay in Russia if he stops leaking secrets about US surveillance schemes.

The Russian president said there were signs that Edward Snowden was “changing his position”.

However, he added that Edward Snowden did not want to stay in Russia but wanted to take up residence in “another country”.

Asked what Edward Snowden’s future was, the Russian president said: “How should I know? It’s his life.”

“He came to our territory without invitation. And we weren’t his final destination… But the moment he was in the air… our American partners, in fact, blocked his further flight,” Vladimir Putin said.

“They have spooked all the other countries, nobody wants to take him and in that way, in fact, they have themselves blocked him on our territory.”

Edward Snowden has been stuck in the transit area of Sheremetyevo airport since arriving from Hong Kong in June
Edward Snowden has been stuck in the transit area of Sheremetyevo airport since arriving from Hong Kong in June

Edward Snowden has been stuck in the transit area of Sheremetyevo airport – reportedly staying at the airport’s Capsule Hotel – since arriving from Hong Kong on June 23.

The American has sent requests for political asylum to at least 21 countries, most of which have turned down his request.

However, Bolivia, Nicaragua and Venezuela have indicated they could take him in.

But Edward Snowden is unable to leave the transit zone without asylum documents, a valid passport or a Russian visa – he reportedly has none of these.

And some European countries are likely to close their airspace to any plane suspected of carrying the fugitive.

At a news conference on Friday, Edward Snowden said he was seeking temporary asylum in Russia before he could safely travel to Latin America. However, Moscow officials say they have so far received no such request.

Edward Snowden’s leaking of thousands of classified US intelligence documents has led to revelations that the National Security Agency (NSA) is systematically seizing vast amounts of phone and web data.

The documents have also indicated that both the UK and French intelligence agencies allegedly run similarly vast data collection operations, and the US has been eavesdropping on official EU communications.

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LoveBerry: Successful BBM Love Stories

Nancy Clayson
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Did you know that lots of people have found love thanks to BlackBerry BBM? As a matter of fact, there is an entire Facebook page dedicated for people to share their stories. If you’re just curious about the highlights, here are six stories of love that happened in part because of BlackBerry BBM.

Julie and Andrew

Image via Flickr by Numbuzz

Julie and Andrew met in England and their relationship took off after they exchanged a few BBM messages. Then, Julie moved back to be with her family in Canada and the couple stayed in contact thanks to their BlackBerry phones. Their relationship continued long distance through, phone calls, messaging, and emoticons.

Navin and Niharika

This couple met during an internship training in Goa. When it was finished, they both parted ways and stayed in contact thanks to BBM for android smartphones. They spoke on the phone and chatted through BlackBerry BBM. They finally got together after Nagpur finished her studies and went back home to Mumbai. They got married and have been together for nine years now.

Siddharth and Mahek

One month into their relationship, Siddharth and Mahek reached their 100 sms limit. That’s when they decided to buy BlackBerry phones together because of BlackBerry BBM. They can now send unlimited messages to each other without the standard cost of text messages. The couple describes how BlackBerry BBM keeps them in love, saying, “I like a shirt, I send her a photo. She likes a shoe, she sends me a photo.” It keeps them connected to each other at all times. “I love you,” is one of their favorite messages to send.

Niki and Vishnu

This couple met at one of the clubs in Cochin where they had love at first sight. By the end of the night, Niki and Vishnu had exchanged numbers. They called and texted back and forth for a week until they decided to start dating. They credit BlackBerry BBM for their loving relationship. Niki says, “Without his ping in the morning, my day is definitely incomplete.

Usha and Abid

These childhood friends decided that they were made for each other and became a couple. Growing up together helped them learn each other’s likes and dislikes and strengthen their relationship. They now stay connected and in love thanks to BlackBerry BBM.

Tanaya and Amit

Both Tanaya and Amit wanted to get married so they turned to a dating website where they found each other. After the parents approved, arrangements started being made to get the marriage started. While that was happening, Tanaya and Amit fell in loved by texting each other during all of their spare time. The first gift that Amit gave Tanaya was a BlackBerry phone so they could stay connected. They are now inseparable. They will be getting married very soon.

These are just a few accounts of the great love stories that were made possible because of BlackBerry BBM. Do you have a love story you’d like to share? Leave a comment below.

Cory Monteith spotted drinking beers with friends days before his death

Lisa.Felice
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Cory Monteith spotted drinking beers with friends days before his death

Cory Monteith was seen drinking alcohol with his friends in Vancouver just one week before his death, it has been reported.

Cory Monteith – who completed a month-long stint in rehab for substance addiction in April – was seen “laughing and drinking beers” reports TMZ.

The 31-year-old Glee star was pictured with his friends on July 6, the day he checked into the Fairmont Pacific Rim hotel, where he was found dead by hotel staff one week later.

Cory Monteith was also pictured next to a mystery brunette who is seen holding two cans of beer, although it was not his girlfriend Lea Michele who was believed to have been in Los Angeles for work at the time.

The actor was reportedly seen drinking alcohol with his friends outside The Shop, a local men’s clothing and motorcycle accessories store, according to the owner.

A source told TMZ that the actor was seen drinking three beers in the course of a few hours but did not seem out of control.

Cory Monteith was seen drinking alcohol with his friends in Vancouver just one week before his death
Cory Monteith was seen drinking alcohol with his friends in Vancouver just one week before his death

However, it has been revealed that on July 11 he had dined manager Elena Kirschner and acting mentor Maureen Webb at East of Main where the actor seemed happy and did not drink alcohol.

Maureen Webb told People magazine: “He looked so good, so healthy. I hadn’t seen him look that good in a long time.”

“We ate a lot of food. We drank the rhubarb lemonade.”

Cory Monteith had organized the dinner because he was planning on getting more involved with Project Limelight Society, a free theatre programme for kids who are driven to perform.

Maureen Webb, who is the co-founder of Project Limelight Society, added: “I told him, <<I remember everything we talked about when we first talked about this project. Now it’s happening>>. His face just lit up. He was in great spirits.”

Two days later Cory Monteith was discovered dead by hotel staff after he failed to check out at the designated time. While there are no implications of foul play, the cause of death has been yet to be confirmed.

How Si Robertson quits Duck Commander

Sonia Pantiss
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How Si Robertson quits Duck Commander

In one of this year’s episodes of Duck Dynasty, Uncle Si Robertson got mad and quit Duck Commander.

Si Robertson felt like he was not appreciated enough. He couldn’t find his tea glass and that was the final straw.

Si Robertson decided to quit Duck Commander after he couldn't find his tea glass
Si Robertson decided to quit Duck Commander after he couldn’t find his tea glass

Uncle Si wanted help and nobody jumped up to help him finding his tea glass. So he just said: “I quit!”

Si Robertson decided to help his older brother Phil working at the property so he could still make money, but he would not be at Duck Commander anymore.

Willie Robertson, the Duck Commander CEO, even went as far as to hire someone to replace Uncle Si even though everyone knows that he won’t stay gone forever. Of course that didn’t last long and Uncle Si Robertson was back at Duck Commander. He even got a raise to come back to work!

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Trayvon Martin verdict: George Zimmerman faces civil trial after acquittal

Nancy Clayson
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Trayvon Martin verdict: George Zimmerman faces civil trial after acquittal

Trayvon Martin’s family is considering whether to sue George Zimmerman in civil court for liability over the death of the unarmed black teenager.

George Zimmerman’s attorney, however, is convinced that his client is immune from such a suit.

Having already admitted to shooting Trayvon Martin and with the burden of proof lower in civil court than in criminal court, George Zimmerman may not emerge victorious from such a lawsuit.

While no estimates have yet been floated as to the amount of financial liability, George Zimmerman may face in a civil suit, Trayvon Martin’s family already settled with the town of Sanford, Florida, and the gated community Zimmerman shot the teenager in while patrolling as a volunteer neighborhood watchman.

The housing complex doled out over $1 million to the grieving family, according to the Orlando Sentinal.

Trayvon Martin’s family is considering whether to sue George Zimmerman in civil court for liability over the death of the unarmed black teenager
Trayvon Martin’s family is considering whether to sue George Zimmerman in civil court for liability over the death of the unarmed black teenager

Mark O’Mara, George Zimmerman’s attorney, says his client is immune from liability.

“If someone believes that it’s appropriate to sue George Zimmerman, then we will seek and we will get immunity in a civil hearing,” Mark O’Mara said in a post-verdict press conference, adding: “We will see just how many civil lawsuits are spawned from this fiasco.”

Florida law would also prevent George Zimmerman from selling the rights to his story for a book or movie deal in order to pay for a civil suit should he be found liable for Trayvon Martin’s death, according to televised media reports.

George Zimmerman could also face trial on federal civil rights abuses in the death of Trayvon Martin.

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Reverend Al Sharpton are working towards making that happen.

The NAACP with a petition addressed directly to US Attorney General Eric Holder and Al Sharpton with planned meetings with community leaders in Florida and likely rallies to follow.

Trayvon Martin verdict: US Department of Justice to investigate George Zimmerman

Diane A. Wade
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Trayvon Martin verdict: US Department of Justice to investigate George Zimmerman

The US Department of Justice confirmed today that it will look into the shooting death of Trayvon Martin to determine whether federal prosecutors should file criminal charges against George Zimmerman in the wake of his acquittal.

The department opened an investigation into Trayvon Martin’s death in 2012, but stepped aside to allow the state prosecution to proceed.

In a statement Sunday, the Justice Department said the criminal section of the civil rights division, the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s office for the Middle District of Florida are continuing to evaluate the evidence generated during the federal probe, in addition to the evidence and testimony from the state trial.

The statement said that, in the government’s words, “experienced federal prosecutors will determine whether the evidence reveals a prosecutable violation”.

This move follows demands from a furious NAACP for the Obama administration to intervene.

Already, over 100,000 people have signed up to an online petition and the NAACP has written a letter to Attorney General Eric Holder urging the Department of Justice to press civil rights charges against 29-year-old George Zimmerman.

In his first public statement since the verdict, President Barack Obama called for calm on Sunday after the acquittal of George Zimmerman in the fatal shooting of unarmed black teenager Trayvon Martin, saying his death was a tragedy and that the country should seek ways to stem gun violence.

Barack Obama urged Americans to broaden “the circle of understanding and compassion” in their communities and put some of the emotion the case has aroused into curtailing gun violence.

On Sunday, Daryl Parks, an attorney for the family of Trayvon Martin was non-committal when asked if they supported the NAACP’s call for George Zimmerman to be prosecuted by the Justice Department.

When asked on Fox News Sunday if Trayvon Martin’s father, Tracy Martin and mother, Sybrina Fulton, supported such a move, Daryl Parks seemed to defer.

“The beauty of our country is that we have several tiers of government, several aspects of laws and that different times different aspects apply,” said Daryl Parks.

“Different laws apply at different times, different places apply at different times. That would be a different arena.”

Both Tracy Martin and Sybrina Fulton chose not to be in the Seminole Circuit Court when the jurors announced their decision just before 10 p.m.

George Crump, the family’s attorney, said that they will still be pursuing a civil case against George Zimmerman.

NAACP President Benjamin Jealous was unequivocal in his response to the not-guilty decision by the Florida jury.

The Department of Justice confirmed that it will investigate the death of Trayvon Martin in the wake of George Zimmerman’s acquittal
The Department of Justice confirmed that it will investigate the death of Trayvon Martin in the wake of George Zimmerman’s acquittal

“We are outraged and heartbroken over today’s verdict,” Benjamin Jealous said in a statement.

“We will pursue civil rights charges with the Department of Justice, we will continue to fight for the removal of Stand Your Ground laws in every state, and we will not rest until racial profiling in all its forms is outlawed,” he said.

Politicians such as Rep. Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.) and Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y) and civil rights leader Jesse Jackson have all added their voices to the NAACP’s position and demanded the administration review the case.

The Rev. Al Sharpton, called the verdict “a sad day in the country” and “a slap in the face to those that believe in justice in this country”.

“I think this is an atrocity,” Al Sharpton said.

“It is probably one of the worst situations that I have seen.”

Jesse Jackson called the verdict: “Old South justice.”

“I’m disappointed and I’m saddened for the family,” Jesse Jackson said.

Benjamin Jealous said Trayvon Martin’s family may bring a civil suit against George Zimmerman but said federal criminal charges must be filed because evidence suggests race was a factor in the case.

He told CNN the black community is upset with a situation in which “our young people have to fear the bad guys and the good guys. The robbers and the cops and the self-appointed community watch volunteer who think that they’re keeping folks safer”.

Al Sharpton cited the example of Rodney King, the man whose videotaped beating by Los Angeles police triggered rioting two decades ago after a state criminal trial found the police officers not guilty.

Later, the Justice Department brought a federal case that resulted in the conviction of two officers.

However, after George Zimmerman was found not guilty on second-degree and manslaughter charges by a Florida jury on Saturday, Attorney General Eric Holder has been left with a decision of massive implications.

The enormous pressure on Eric Holder, the United States’ first African-American attorney general, will grow over the coming days – especially in light of previous statements made on the matter.

Earlier this year, the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched a review of the shooting and Eric Holder went on record to say that he would take appropriate action if there was sufficient evidence of a civil rights crime.

“If we find evidence of a potential federal criminal civil rights crime, we will take appropriate action, and at every step, the facts and law will guide us forward,” said Eric Holder in a speech in April to Al Sharpton’s National Action Network.

However, in remarks subsequent to that, Eric Holder toned-down his comments, saying that the DOJ faces a “very high barrier” to bring federal criminal charges.

Eric Holder made personal remarks about the death of Trayvon Martin in April, saying “as a parent I reacted to it”.

“This is a pain that no parent should have to endure. The notion of having to bury a child is something that is, I think in some ways for a parent, the ultimate pain,” he said.

“The primary responsibility we have in the Justice Department is to support the state in its ongoing investigation, to do our own thorough and parallel investigation which we are in the process of doing and try to resolve this matter in as fair and complete a way and as quickly as we can.”

The full text of the NAACP’s petition to Attorney General Eric Holder

“Attorney General Eric Holder,

The Department of Justice has closely monitored the State of Florida’s prosecution of the case against George Zimmerman in the Trayvon Martin murder since it began.

Today, with the acquittal of George Zimmerman, it is time for the Department of Justice to act.

The most fundamental of civil rights – the right to life – was violated the night George Zimmerman stalked and then took the life of Trayvon Martin.

We ask that the Department of Justice file civil rights charges against Mr. Zimmerman for this egregious violation.

Please address the travesties of the tragic death of Trayvon Martin by acting today.

Thank you”

George Zimmerman shot dead Martin in Sanford on February 26th, 2012.

George Zimmerman, 29, maintains he shot Trayvon Martin, 17, in self-defense, while the state argued that Zimmerman “profiled” Martin and concluded he was a criminal.

For their part, the NAACP is trying to build a ground swell of support for its call for federal charges.

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GSK made illegal transfers in China, say police

Clyde K. Valle
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GSK made illegal transfers in China, say police

British pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) made “illegal” transfers, say Chinese police as they released details of an investigation into bribery allegations.

Four senior Chinese executives from GSK have been held, said Gao Feng, head of the economic crimes investigation unit.

Gao Feng said GSK had transferred as much as 3 billion yuan ($489 million) to travel agencies and consultancies since 2007.

Chinese police said GSK had transferred as much as $489 million to travel agencies and consultancies since 2007
Chinese police said GSK had transferred as much as $489 million to travel agencies and consultancies since 2007

GSK has said it has not found any evidence of corruption.

However, the company said in a statement last week that it was co-operating with authorities.

On July 11, the Ministry of Public Security said GSK executives had confessed to bribery and tax violations. Authorities said they suspect GSK of offering bribes to officials and doctors to try to boost sales in China.

On Monday, Gao Feng did not go into how much of the money was spent allegedly bribing officials and doctors.

He did, however, say that the probe had found that GSK was mainly responsible for the bribes which included cases of s**ual bribery.

“We have sufficient reason to suspect that these transfers were conducted illegally,” Gao Feng said.

“You could say the travel agencies and GSK were criminal partners.”

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Cory Monteith dead: Selena Gomez posts picture of herself hugging Glee star

Lisa.Felice
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Cory Monteith dead: Selena Gomez posts picture of herself hugging Glee star

Selena Gomez is one of the many celebrities paying tribute to Cory Monteith after his tragic death in a Vancouver hotel room at the age of 31 on Saturday.

Selena Gomez, 20, posted a picture of herself and Cory Monteith hugging on the red carpet of the 2011 Kids’ Choice Awards.

Selena Gomez is one of the many celebrities paying tribute to Cory Monteith after his tragic death in a Vancouver hotel room
Selena Gomez is one of the many celebrities paying tribute to Cory Monteith after his tragic death in a Vancouver hotel room

She accompanied the picture with a poignant message, writing: “This hurts. I love you Cory. Rest in peace. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.”

Selena Gomez was just one of numerous celebrities who took to their Twitter pages to express their shock and grief over the death of Glee star Cory Monteith.

Gwyneth Paltrow, who also appeared in the show, released a moving statement in tribute.

“Cory was a sweet and talented man. My heart breaks for Lea and the entire Glee family,” said the actress.

Cory Monteith’s body was found shortly after noon by Fairmont Pacific Rim hotel staff.

According to the Vancouver Sun, there are no indications of foul play, and an autopsy is scheduled for today.

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Spain: PM Mariano Rajoy faces renewed calls to resign over texts sent to Luis Barcenas

Diane A. Wade
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Spain: PM Mariano Rajoy faces renewed calls to resign over texts sent to Luis Barcenas

Spanish PM Mariano Rajoy is facing renewed calls to resign after El Mundo newspaper published text messages allegedly linking him to Luis Barcenas, the man at the centre of a secret payments scandal.

The El Mundo report said Mariano Rajoy sent words of support to Luis Barcenas, former treasurer of the governing Popular Party (PP).

Lui Barcenas is in custody facing trial for corruption and tax fraud. He denies the allegations.

Mariano Rajoy, too, denies any wrongdoing.

The PP’s former treasurer was due to appear before a judge on Monday, a week after he admitted for the first time that handwriting in a ledger detailing payments belonged to him.

A series of newspaper allegations that Mariano Rajoy and other top politicians received illicit payments has enraged a country in the depths of recession and record unemployment.

It is claimed that Luis Barcenas ran a PP slush fund that took donations from construction magnates and distributed them to party leaders in cash.

PM Mariano Rajoy is facing renewed calls to resign after El Mundo newspaper published text messages allegedly linking him to Luis Barcenas
PM Mariano Rajoy is facing renewed calls to resign after El Mundo newspaper published text messages allegedly linking him to Luis Barcenas

El Mundo newspaper said last week it had delivered documents with Luis Barcenas’s original ledger entries to the High Court.

Another Spanish paper, El Pais, published similar documents earlier this year.

The leader of the country’s main opposition Socialist Party, Alfredo Perez Rubalcaba, called for Mariano Rajoy’s immediate resignation on Sunday “given the unsustainable political situation in Spain”.

“Mr. Rajoy’s conduct in this situation can be summarized quite simply: silence, lies, and after what we have learned today, collusion, extremely serious collusion,” Alfredo Perez Rubalcaba said.

El Mundo‘s most recent report includes a text message Mariano Rajoy apparently sent to Luis Barcenas in January this year – when the slush fund allegations broke.

He said: “Luis, I understand. Stay strong. I’ll call you tomorrow. A hug.”

The paper said the conversations showed Mariano Rajoy maintained “direct and permanent contact” from at least May 2011 to March 2013.

Luis Barcenas is being investigated over allegations he stashed up to 48 million euros in secret Swiss bank accounts. Prosecutors allege that some of the funds stem from illegal party donations or kickbacks.

He and his wife are also suspected of falsifying documents on their tax statements between 2002 and 2006.

Luis Barcenas and his wife deny the charges.

In June, a judge ordered Luis Barcenas to be held in jail until his trial starts after prosecutors argued that he was a flight risk.

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China’s economic growth slows again in Q2 2013

Clyde K. Valle
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China’s economic growth slows again in Q2 2013

China’s economic growth slowed in Q2 2013, the second straight quarter of weaker expansion.

The world’s second biggest economy grew by 7.5% in the April to June period compared to the previous year, down from 7.7% in the January to March period, data showed.

The figures were in line with analyst expectations.

After decades of blistering growth in China, analysts say authorities now seem ready to accept a slower pace of expansion.

The figures showed that weak trade data and actions by authorities to reign in bank lending contributed to the slower growth.

“As of now, China’s gross domestic product has been staying under 8% for five straight quarters, a clear sign of distress,” said economist Ren Xianfang from IHS Global Insight.

“The rather sharp growth deceleration and the recent financial market turmoil indicate that risks have been building on both the financial and real goods sector,” she added.

The government has set a target of 7.5% growth for the whole of 2013, which would mark the lowest rate of expansion in more than two decades.

China's economic growth slowed in Q2 2013, the second straight quarter of weaker expansion
China’s economic growth slowed in Q2 2013, the second straight quarter of weaker expansion

China has been a major driver of the global economy and many countries have gained because of the demand from Chinese companies, including the mining sector in Australia.

However, analysts questioned whether the 7.5% target would be achieved without some stimulus measures from the government.

“We will see some targeted measures to stimulate growth,” said Credit Agricole CIB economist Dariusz Kowalczyk.

“They have to do something. Otherwise they will miss their target. And they cannot afford that, because this is their first year in power.”

A spokesperson for the National Bureau of Statistics said: “Major indicators are within our targeted range but we face a complex situation.”

China’s leaders have repeatedly said that the long-term goal is to rebalance the economy away from an over-reliance on exports and investment, and spur consumer spending instead.

“Some measures, including the intensified property tightening campaign, new rules to curb misuse of public funds and the exit some previous stimulus policies, will inevitably have some impact on growth in the short term, but they will benefit our economy in the long run,” said Sheng Laiyun from the bureau of statistics at a press conference.

In 2012 China expanded at a rate of 7.8%, its worst annual performance in 13 years.

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Prince Charles and Duchy of Cornwall’s tax affairs under scrutiny

Clyde K. Valle
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Prince Charles and Duchy of Cornwall’s tax affairs under scrutiny

Prince Charles and the Duchy of Cornwall’s tax affairs are due to be examined by an influential set of MPs in the UK.

Prince of Wales’ most senior official, William Nye, has been called to give evidence to the Public Accounts Committee on Monday afternoon.

The committee will consider whether Prince Charles is paying his fair share of tax and explore why the duchy does not pay corporation tax or capital gains tax.

It is only the second time that royal accounts have been examined this way.

The last time Prince Charles’s representatives came before the Public Accounts Committee they were accused of performing financial “jiggery pokery” and he was said to be the recipient of the “best housing benefit scheme in the world”.

Prince Charles and the Duchy of Cornwall’s tax affairs are due to be examined by an influential set of MPs in the UK
Prince Charles and the Duchy of Cornwall’s tax affairs are due to be examined by an influential set of MPs in the UK

The Duchy of Cornwall provides the heir to the throne with a private income.

Royal officials argue the duchy is a private landed estate, not a corporation or a public body, so it is exempt from capital gains tax.

They also say Prince Charles pays income tax on the money he receives from the hereditary estate after business expenses have been deducted.

Earlier this month, the prince faced calls from Andrew George, the Liberal Democrat MP for West Cornwall, to “come clean” about the Duchy of Cornwall’s tax arrangements.

The duchy is a £762 million ($1.2 billion) estate of about 131,000 acres, mostly in the south-west of England, from which the prince received a record £19 million ($30 million) last year.

Clarence House has said public funding for the Prince of Wales fell by £1 million to £1.2 million in the last financial year, out of a total income of £20.2 million.

Cory Monteith dead: Lea Michele asks for privacy following her boyfriend’s death

Lisa.Felice
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0
Cory Monteith dead: Lea Michele asks for privacy following her boyfriend’s death

Cory Monteith’s girlfriend and Glee co-star Lea Michele has asked for “privacy at this devastating time” following the death of her boyfriend.

Lea Michele, 26, released a statement on Sunday after her 31-year-old Glee co-star Cory Monteith was found dead in his hotel room in Vancouver, Canada on Saturday.

“We ask that everyone kindly respect Lea’s privacy during this devastating time,” a representative for Lea Michele told People magazine.

Cory Monteith had been in his luxury hotel room with friends on Saturday evening before heading out for the night. Lea Michele is not believed to have been with him.

“She [Lea Michele] is absolutely hysterical and completely inconsolable,” a source told HollywoodLife.com.

“She is devastated beyond belief.”

Cory Monteith’s girlfriend and Glee co-star Lea Michele has asked for “privacy at this devastating time” following the death of her boyfriend
Cory Monteith’s girlfriend and Glee co-star Lea Michele has asked for “privacy at this devastating time” following the death of her boyfriend

A friend of the star was spotted leaving Lea Michele’s Los Angeles home on Sunday morning to meet another friend with what appeared to be an overnight bag.

No cause of death has been confirmed at this point but there was said to be no implications of foul play. Medical examiners will conduct an autopsy on Monday.

Cory Monteith – who completed a stint of rehab in April for substance addiction – was last pictured with Lea Michele just last month.

Lea Michele and Cory Monteith are believed to have dated for around two years, with the actress and singer discussing her feelings for her co-star in an interview in Marie Claire magazine earlier this year.

“I don’t even remember a time when he wasn’t my boyfriend. No one knows me better than Cory,” Lea Michele told the January issue of the magazine.

“No one knows what it’s been like to go through this more than he does. Feeling like you have that net underneath you allows you to jump higher and go farther. He makes me feel like I can do anything.

“For the first time in my life, I feel really, really settled and happy,” she said.

“I feel like the luckiest girl in the world.”

Cory Monteith is said to have spent his last hours enjoying an evening out with friends before he tragically passed away of unknown causes while alone in a hotel room.

Jimmy Kimmel wedding: Gabourey Sidibe pranks him arriving in white wedding dress

Lisa.Felice
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0
Jimmy Kimmel wedding: Gabourey Sidibe pranks him arriving in white wedding dress

Actress Gabourey Sidibe appeared to be pulling a prank on Jimmy Kimmel, wearing a white wedding dress as she arrived at his ceremony in Ojai, California on Saturday.

Taking on the role of his bride-to-be, the 30-year-old Precious star stepped out of her black Escalade limousine in the flowing gown and accompanying veil.

And Oscar winner Gabourey Sidibe even had a gal pal holding her train as she strolled across the stone path.

Avoiding the sun, Gabourey Sidibe also covered herself with a dark green umbrella.

Later, Gabourey Sidibe slipped into a red frock and white flats at the star-studded event, allowing Jimmy Kimmel’s bride Molly McNearney to be the center of attention.

Jimmy Kimmel, 45, seemed to appreciate the stunt, laughing as he greeted the actress inside the reception.

Gabourey Sidibe pranks Jimmy Kimmel as she arrives to his wedding wearing a white dress and veil
Gabourey Sidibe pranks Jimmy Kimmel as she arrives to his wedding wearing a white dress and veil

He tied the knot with his fiancée Molly McNearney at a lavish country ceremony in a quaint hill town high above Santa Barbara, California, his publicist has confirmed.

According to People magazine, invitations to the wedding requested that guests make a charitable donation in lieu of wedding gifts.

Jimmy Kimmel and Molly McNearney have been together since October 2011 and got engaged last August while on vacation at the Kruger National Park in South Africa.

They would appear to be a match made in TV heaven with Molly McNearney being the head writer on Jimmy Kimmel’s chat show, Jimmy Kimmel Live.

There will certainly be no shortage of laughter in their marital home.

It will be the second wedding for the hugely popular Jimmy Kimmel Live host who was married to first wife Gina for 14 years before they divorced in 2002. Jimmy  and Gina Kimmel have two children together.

Jimmy Kimmel then went on to date satirical comedienne Sarah Silverman, 42, but the couple broke up in July 2008 after five years together.

Recently Jimmy Kimmel spoke about the upcoming ceremony, saying: “It’ll be mostly a family affair, and there will be a Catholic priest officiating… I’m not that involved with the wedding planning, but I will be there.”

Barack Obama calls for calm after George Zimmerman not guilty verdict

Diane A. Wade
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Barack Obama calls for calm after George Zimmerman not guilty verdict

President Barack Obama has called on Americans to spend time in “calm reflection” after neighborhood watchman George Zimmerman was cleared of murdering black teenager Trayvon Martin.

Barack Obama said Trayvon Martin’s death was a tragedy for America, but that it was “a nation of laws and a jury has spoken”.

The president also called for a renewed debate about gun violence.

Trayvon Martin case case sparked a fierce debate in the US about racial profiling.

George Zimmerman, 29, had been facing possible conviction for second-degree murder or manslaughter, but on Saturday he was cleared of all charges at his trial in Sanford, Florida.

Prosecutors had argued that George Zimmerman shot Trayvon Martin dead on February 26, 2012, because he had racially profiled him as he walked through his neighborhood wearing a hooded sweatshirt in the rain.

Trayvon Martin was African-American. George Zimmerman identifies himself as Hispanic.

But the defense said he had killed Trayvon Martin in self defense after the teenager punched their client, slammed his head into the pavement and reached for George Zimmerman’s gun.

The verdict sparked an angry reaction from many in the US.

Protest marches were staged in US cities including San Francisco, Philadelphia, Chicago, Washington and Atlanta. In Oakland, California, some protesters started small fires and smashed windows.

In his statement, Barack Obama said the death of Trayvon Martin “was a tragedy. Not just for his family, or for any one community, but for America”.

He added: “I know this case has elicited strong passions. And in the wake of the verdict, I know those passions may be running even higher.

President Barack Obama has called on Americans to spend time in "calm reflection" after neighborhood watchman George Zimmerman was cleared of murdering black teenager Trayvon Martin
President Barack Obama has called on Americans to spend time in “calm reflection” after neighborhood watchman George Zimmerman was cleared of murdering black teenager Trayvon Martin

“But we are a nation of laws, and a jury has spoken.”

Barack Obama said all Americans should respect the call for calm reflection from the Martin family, and that “as we do, we should ask ourselves if we’re doing all we can to widen the circle of compassion and understanding in our own communities.

“We should ask ourselves if we’re doing all we can to stem the tide of gun violence that claims too many lives across this country on a daily basis.

“We should ask ourselves, as individuals and as a society, how we can prevent future tragedies like this.

“As citizens, that’s a job for all of us. That’s the way to honor Trayvon Martin.”

Barack Obama had commented on the Zimmerman case in March last year, saying: “If I had a son, he’d look like Trayvon.”

Civil rights groups in the US have also called for calm, though have expressed their dismay at the verdict.

Civil rights leader Jesse Jackson told CNN on Sunday: “I remain stunned at the decision. The department of justice must intervene to take this to another level.”

He said “the American legal system has once again failed justice”.

But he also appealed for calm, saying anyone seeking to “compound our pain with street justice” would do “damage to the innocent blood and legacy of Trayvon Martin”.

Rights activist Al Sharpton said the verdict was “a slap in the face to the American people”.

He compared the case to the beating of African-American man Rodney King by police in 1991, which sparked widespread rioting.

A petition launched by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), demanding that the department of justice open a civil rights case against George Zimmerman, had received more than 350,000 signatures by midday on Sunday.

Meanwhile George Zimmerman’s family and representatives have said they are afraid he could fall victim to revenge attacks.

His brother, Robert, said he had received frequent threats on social media and there was “more reason now than ever to think that people are trying to kill him”.

“He’s going to be looking over his shoulder the rest of his life,” he said.

[youtube 7M9hUWQTx4M]

Trayvon Martin case: Celebrities reactions to George Zimmerman not guilty verdict

Nancy Clayson
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Trayvon Martin case: Celebrities reactions to George Zimmerman not guilty verdict

Beyonce stopped her concert and called for a moment of silence for Trayvon Martin, rapper Young Jeezy released a song in his memory and Russell Simmons called for peace after George Zimmerman was acquitted by a Florida jury in the death of the teenager.

There was a wide range of reactions from celebrities after jurors cleared George Zimmerman late Saturday of all charges in the 2012 shooting death of the unarmed 17-year-old Martin.

Beyonce took a moment to honor Trayvon Martin during her Mrs. Carter Show World Tour concert at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee.

Her concert started about 30 minutes after the Zimmerman verdict began to circulate.

“I’d like to have a moment of silence for Trayvon,” Beyonce star said as the stage grew dark with just a few key lights shining.

Beyonce then sang the chorus of I Will Always Love You, a song, fittingly given the location, written by country music star Dolly Parton and brought to a global audience by the late Whitney Houston, before transitioning into her hit Halo.

It was just one of several reactions from celebrities and artists following George Zimmerman’s acquittal by a six-woman jury.

Much of it focused on the perceived outrage of the situation. But others had more poignant responses.

Young Jeezy posted a new song, It’s a Cold World (A Tribute to Trayvon Martin), to his Facebook page with a comment: “I am in no way shape, form, or fashion … trying to capitalize off of the latest series of events. These are my true feelings and my form of expression about it.”

Russell Simmons, a producer and entrepreneur, posted a blog entry that said he’d be supporting the Trayvon Martin Foundation in helping to repeal laws like Florida’s Stand Your Ground law. He signed off: “God bless you little brother. Rest in peace.”

Beyonce stopped her concert and called for a moment of silence for Trayvon Martin
Beyonce stopped her concert and called for a moment of silence for Trayvon Martin

He also called for those upset with the verdict to channel their energy away from violence on Twitter, telling followers “we must remain peaceful. No matter what, remain peaceful”.

“If u have any anger this evening,” Russell Simmons wrote on Twitter, “put that energy into challenging these horrible laws that allow overly-anxious neighborhood watchmen to carry guns and shoot innocent people.”

Figures from music, film and sport repeated the sentiment while angry and saddened by the court ruling.

Stevie Johnson, wide receiver for the Buffalo Bills compared the Zimmerman verdict to Michael Vicks dog fighting case.

“Living in a world where you fight dogs; you could lose everything (Mike Vick).. If you kill a black man you’re not guilty! #INjusticesystem,” Stevie Johnson wrote.

Musicians also tweeted their frustration with the jury’s verdict. Celebrities including Rihanna, Ice Cube, and Nicki Minaj criticized the court’s verdict.

Rihanna tweeted: “This is the saddest news ever!!! #whatsjustice.”

Ice Cube wrote: “The Trayvon Martin verdict doesn’t surprise me. Stanford, FL never wanted Zimmerman arrested. Now he’s free to kill another child.”

American Idol judge and pop star Nicki Minaj wrote: “And our taxes paid for that trial. We just paid to see a murderer walk free after killing an innocent unarmed little boy. #GodBlessAmerica.”

Actors spoke out against the verdict as well, sending their prayers to the Martin family and expressing their disapproval of the court’s verdict.

Singer and actress Mandy Moore responded similarly writing: “My heart is heavy…for all who knew and loved #TrayvonMartin. His life mattered. This is shameful.”

One star who overstepped the mark was New York Giants player Victor Cruz.

The footballer wrote: “Thoroughly confused. Zimmerman doesn’t last a year before the hood catches up to him.”

The message was promptly deleted.

Trayvon Martin’s father also used Twitter as a public forum to speak after the verdict was handed down in his son’s trial.

Tracy Martin released several tweets shortly after the jury’s verdict was announced.

“God blessed Me & Sybrina with Tray and even in his death I know my baby proud of the FIGHT we along with all of you put up for him GOD BLESS,” wrote Saturday night.

Then two minutes later Tracy Martin said: “Thanks to everyone who are with us and who will be with us so we together can make sure that this doesn’t happen again.”

This morning he added: “Even though I am broken hearted my faith is unshattered I WILL ALWAYS LOVE MY BABY TRAY.”

Trayvon Martin’s mother, Sybrina Fulton, added: “Lord during my darkest hour I lean on you. You are all that I have. At the end of the day, GOD is still in control. Thank you all for your prayers and support. I will love you forever Trayvon!!! In the name of Jesus!!!”

Cory Monteith’s last hours before dying in Vancouver hotel room

Lisa.Felice
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Cory Monteith’s last hours before dying in Vancouver hotel room

Cory Monteith had spent his last hours enjoying an evening out with friends before he tragically passed away of unknown causes while alone in a hotel room in Vancouver, Canada.

The 31-year-old Glee star – who completed a stint in rehab in April for substance addiction and appeared to be “happy and healthy” in recent months –  was out in Vancouver before returning alone to his Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel in the city.

Cory Monteith had been in his luxury hotel room with friends on Saturday evening before heading out for the night. His girlfriend and Glee co-star Lea Michele is not believed to have been with him.

No cause of death has been confirmed at this point but there was said to be no implications of foul play. Medical examiners will conduct an autopsy on Monday.

Recent pictures of the star showed him looking happy and healthy in the company of his long-term girlfriend after flying into LAX in California.

Cory Monteith last tweeted on Friday, joking around about the new sci-fi film Sharknado. He wrote: “What the c**p is Sharknado… Oh. IT’S A SHARK TORNADO.”

Authorities refused to say if there was any connection between Cory Monteith’s voluntary stint in rehab and his untimely death, the Toronto Star reported.

They also declined to comment on the contents of the room.

It is believed that Cory Monteith had been dead for several hours in his room before his body was found.

Cory Monteith had spent his last hours enjoying an evening out with friends before he tragically passed away of unknown causes
Cory Monteith had spent his last hours enjoying an evening out with friends before he tragically passed away of unknown causes

Cory Monteith had been due to check out of the luxury hotel on Saturday but when he failed to do so, cleaning staff went to his room where they found his body.

Paramedics were called who declared him dead at the scene shortly after noon. Police said there were no signs of foul play and said that Cory Monteith had died alone.

Video footage has revealed Cory Monteith returning to his room by himself after an evening out with friends on Friday.

Cory Monteith had checked into the hotel room on July 6 and was due to check out on Saturday.

The actor, who played the character Finn Hudson in the popular Fox show, had spoken publicly about his battle with addiction.

He had previously received treatment aged 19 and commented that he took “anything and everything”, according to the Vancouver Sun.

Cory Monteith’s family, who live in Calgary, were notified shortly before police held a press conference over the tragic news.

Acting Chief Doug LePard read in a statement: “Shortly after noon today, the Vancouver Police received a call from the BC Ambulance Service regarding a sudden death in a room on the 21st floor of the Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel at 1038 Canada Place in downtown Vancouver.”

Confirming: “The deceased has been identified as 31-year-old actor Cory Monteith, who achieved great fame on the popular TV series Glee.”

Before giving out further information, Doug LePard said: “I want to pass on our condolences to the family, friends, cast-mates and millions of fans of Mr. Monteith.”

Word had begun to spread on Twitter of the news late on Saturday night although there was no official comment made at that point.

Many believed it to be hoax, as it is not the first time news of his death had spread over the internet.

Tragically, this time the rumors turned out to be true. In a short statement, Cory Monteith’s publicist Melissa Kates said: “We are in shock and mourning this tragic loss.”

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Egypt freezes Muslim Brotherhood leaders assets

Roy Siemens
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Egypt freezes Muslim Brotherhood leaders assets

Public prosecutor in Egypt has frozen the assets of 14 Islamist leaders, according to judicial sources.

The Muslim Brotherhood head Mohammed Badie and his deputy Khairat al-Shater are reported to be among them.

Mohammed Badie and other Muslim Brotherhood figures are already the subject of arrest warrants, while the ousted President Mohamed Morsi remains in custody.

On Sunday, army chief Abdel Fattah al-Sisi defended the decision to remove him from power.

In a speech, he said he had urged the Islamist president to hold a referendum on his rule days before he was overthrown.

“The response was total rejection,” he added.

Gen Abdel Fattah al-Sisi said no group would be barred from politics: “Every political force… must realize that an opportunity is available for everyone in political life and no ideological movement is prevented from participating.”

Mohammed Badie and other Muslim Brotherhood figures are already the subject of arrest warrants in Egypt
Mohammed Badie and other Muslim Brotherhood figures are already the subject of arrest warrants in Egypt

A temporary government is tasked with leading the country under an army-backed “road map” to restore civilian rule.

The decision by Egypt’s public prosecutor Hisham Barakat to freeze the assets of senior Islamists comes amid an ongoing investigation into deadly clashes that have happened since President Mohamed Morsi was ousted.

Dozens of people have died during major demonstrations by pro- and anti-Morsi protesters in the past two weeks.

According to Egypt’s state-run Channel 1 TV, the leader of the Brotherhood’s Freedom and Justice Party Mohammed Saad al-Katani has also been affected by the asset freeze, along with senior figures in rival Islamist groups.

In the meantime, Egypt’s new interim PM Hazem al-Beblawi has begun appointing people to senior cabinet posts.

Ahmed Galal, a liberal economist with a doctorate from Boston University, is to be finance minister. Nabil Fahmy, a former ambassador to the US, was named foreign minister.

Mohamed Morsi’s supporters, many of them members of the Muslim Brotherhood, have been staging a mass sit-in Cairo since their man was removed from power on July 3.

They are demanding his reinstatement as president and say the military’s removal of him amounted to a coup.

The army says it intervened to remove Mohamed Morsi in response to protests by millions of Egyptians who accused him of becoming increasingly authoritarian and failing to tackle economic difficulties.

[youtube cUavtB2eBMM]

Jessica Simpson shares bizarre photo of mother Tina tightly swaddled in a blanket

Lisa.Felice
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Jessica Simpson shares bizarre photo of mother Tina tightly swaddled in a blanket

In first tweet since giving birth to baby Ace Knute, Jessica Simpson has revealed that fiancé Eric Johnson is taking his responsibilities to the extreme.

Jessica Simpson, 33, shared a photo of her mother Tina, tightly swaddled in a blanket wearing a look of surprise.

Alongside the picture, Jessica Simpson tweeted: “Eric got carried away with his swaddling skills!”

Jessica Simpson shared bizarre photo of mother Tina tightly swaddled in a blanket
Jessica Simpson shared bizarre photo of mother Tina tightly swaddled in a blanket

A beaming Tina looked delighted to be a grandmother once more, the new addition probably taking her mind off her recent divorce from husband Joe, which was finalized in April.

New mom Jessica Simpson hasn’t been spotted since the birth of her second child via a scheduled C section on June 30.

Announcing the birth, the Fashion Star mentor’s rep told USWeekly: “Ace Knute (pronounced Ka-nute) Johnson has arrived! Mom and baby are doing great.”

“Jessica, Eric and Maxwell are thrilled to welcome the new addition to their family,” the rep continued.

Baby Ace takes the unusual middle name Knute from his Swedish paternal grandfather, but since the name was revealed it has been ridiculed on Twitter as “stupid” and “ugly”.

Jessica Simpson and 33-year-old Eric Johnson are already parents to daughter Maxwell who is almost 14-months-old.

Trayvon Martin case: Protestors gathered in major cities across US after George Zimmerman not guilty verdict

Diane A. Wade
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Trayvon Martin case: Protestors gathered in major cities across US after George Zimmerman not guilty verdict

Protestors gathered in major cities across the US late into the night after George Zimmerman was found not guilty in the Trayvon Martin case.

The demonstrators carried signs and gathered en mass in major cities across the country including New York, Washington D.C., and Los Angeles.

Though the marches were non-violent police assembled close by to monitor the crowd’s activity.

In Los Angeles and Washington D.C. protestors carried signs that read, “Stop Criminalizing Black Men”, and “Stop Impunity for Cops and Wannabe Cops”.

Protesters in D.C. marched through the streets chanting “Trayvon was murdered”, and “No justice, no peace”, according to NBC 4 Washington.

Demonstrations like the one in D.C. organized quickly in the hours after news of the verdict broke.

After the verdict was announced an outcry of rage poured out over social media and from demonstrators in front of the court house in the moments after the not guilty verdict came down in the George Zimmerman trial.

Crowds outside the courthouse were outspoken about their disappointment at the verdict and hundreds took to Twitter to voice their discontentment with the justice system and jury’s verdict.

Violent words were thrown around on the social media outlet, and many people have already declared George Zimmerman a “dead man walking”.

Protestors gathered in major cities across the US late into the night after George Zimmerman was found not guilty in the Trayvon Martin case
Protestors gathered in major cities across the US late into the night after George Zimmerman was found not guilty in the Trayvon Martin case

Demonstrators outside the court started chanting “Justice for Trayvon”, according to USA Today. Other shouted “The system has failed”, in front of the courthouse where they were gathered en mass.

People held up banners reading “End racial oppression” as they chanted and others just screamed “No” in shock after the verdict, SkyNews reported.

The crowd outside the Florida courthouse quickly began to protest the verdict as a chant of “no justice, no peace”, rose up according to The Orlando Sentinel.
The newspaper reported that soon after the crowd learned of the verdict the police quickly closed the entrances to the courthouse ground. Those remained inside were relatively calm.

Amongst the protesters at the courthouse were members of the New Black Panther Party who wore shirts reading, “Freedom or Death”.

The paper reported that the militants spoke of ‘injustice’ in the moments after the ruling.

“No one, no one could have foreseen that he would walk away,” James Evans Muhammad, the party chairperson told the Sentinel.

A crowd of college students were amongst the louder voices present, chanting their dissent well after the verdict was announced, according to the newspaper.

Many on Twitter also expressed their unhappiness with the outcome of the trial.

Several Twitter users started to call George Zimmerman a “dead man walking”, conjecturing on his safety after his acquittal and threatening his life on the social media platform.

[youtube DN3Z7SEYYOY]

Bastille Day 2013: France’s National Day celebrations amid train crash investigation

Diane A. Wade
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Bastille Day 2013: France’s National Day celebrations amid train crash investigation

France is preparing to celebrate its national day – known as Bastille Day – as investigations continue into the country’s worst rail disaster for 25 years.

Six people were killed when a train derailed at Bretigny-sur-Orge, south of Paris, at 17:14 on Friday.

The French train operator SNCF says the crash may have been caused by a fault on the tracks.

President Francois Hollande is expected to call for solidarity in a traditional Bastille Day broadcast on Sunday.

Francois Hollande will give a series of television interviews as workers continue to inspect the wreckage.

A large crane arrived at the site on Saturday evening to lift away the remains of carriages, and to find out whether there are still bodies lying beneath.

French media are reporting that it could still take a number of days to clear the derailed cars.

Transport routes were particularly busy at the time of the crash, as France began a long weekend for Bastille Day.

The July 14 celebrations, marking the start of the French Revolution in 1789, traditionally include an annual military parade on the Champs Elysees in Paris.

The July 14 celebrations, marking the start of the French Revolution in 1789, traditionally include an annual military parade on the Champs Elysees in Paris
The July 14 celebrations, marking the start of the French Revolution in 1789, traditionally include an annual military parade on the Champs Elysees in Paris

A minute’s silence was held across France’s train network at noon on Saturday to commemorate the victims of the accident.

Those killed were four men and two women, aged between 19 and 82. Thirty people were injured, eight seriously.

SNCF said 385 passengers were on board when the train crashed and the station platforms were crowded.

The train had just left Paris on Friday afternoon and was heading for Limoges when six carriages derailed as the train passed through Bretigny-sur-Orge station at 85mph.

The train’s third and fourth carriages derailed first and the others followed. One mounted the station platform.

Eye witnesses described the train flying into the air and flipping over. Some said it was like scenes from a “war zone” with people running and screaming.

Giving its initial findings, SNCF management told reporters a metal bar connecting two rails had become detached at points 200 m outside the station.

“It moved into the centre of the switch and in this position it prevented the normal passage of the train’s wheels and it may have caused the derailment,” said Pierre Izard, SNCF’s general manager for infrastructure.

An SNCF inquiry is now expected to focus on how the piece of metal had become detached.

Separate investigations are also being conducted by judicial authorities and France’s BEA safety agency.

Transport Minister Frederic Cuvillier has praised the driver of the train, saying his quick actions averted a worse accident.

Frederic Cuvillier said the driver had “absolutely extraordinary reflexes in that he sounded the alarm immediately, preventing a collision with another train coming in the opposite direction and which would have hit the derailing carriages within seconds”.

The worst railway accident in France in living memory took place at the Gare de Lyon in Paris in 1988, when two trains collided, killing 56 people.

[youtube P58g2PCKU8Q]

Halle Berry and Olivier Martinez married in France

Lisa.Felice
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Halle Berry and Olivier Martinez married in France

Halle Berry and Olivier Martinez have reportedly married in France, following the announcement of their engagement last April.

Halle Berry, 46, and Olivier Martinez, 47, tied the knot at the Chateau des Conde in Olivier’s native France on Saturday, UsWeekly reports.

A source confirmed to the publication that Halle Berry and Olivier Martinez are now officially husband and wife.

Halle Berry is reported to have arrived in a vintage car to the sprawling Chateau des Conde in Vallery, France, where white tents had been erected to ensure the couple’s privacy.

The actress, who has been married twice before, reportedly wore a simple cream dress as she arrived in a white limousine.

A source said that a civic ceremony took place at 4.15 and then a religious one in a chapel in the grounds of the chateau at 5.30.

Halle Berry and Olivier Martinez tied the knot at the Chateau des Conde in Olivier's native France on Saturday
Halle Berry and Olivier Martinez tied the knot at the Chateau des Conde in Olivier’s native France on Saturday

Halle Berry and Olivier Martinez boarded a flight for Paris on Tuesday with Halle’s five-year-old daughter, Nahla, joining them.

Now it appears to be the case that the family were headed to the Renaissance chateau in the Burgundy countryside, around an hour’s drive south of Paris.

Despite Halle Berry previously telling InStyle magazine of her wedding: “I do know it will be very small,” it seems that may have been a white lie, judging by the fanfare surrounding the French estate where the wedding was held.

People Magazine has reported that among the 60 guests – thought to be close friends – were the groom’s mother Rosemarie and brother Vincent.

Dinner is said to have been served for the guests at an arbor and there was also a fireworks display.

This is the first marriage for French actor Olivier Martinez, who previously dated Kylie Minogue.

It seems to be a change of heart for Halle Berry, who once declared six years ago: “I will never, never get married again.”

However, Halle Berry laughed as her comments came back to haunt her just last week, when she was quizzed by impending nuptials, saying: “I swore it off, right? Never say never, people!”

Halle Berry and Olivier Martinez began dating after meeting on the set of Dark Tides in August 2010, and they announced their engagement less than two years later – in March 2012.

The actress is currently pregnant with her first child with Olivier Martinez – a baby boy who is due sometime around October.

The couple announced their happy news in April this year, before the proud dad-to-be accidentally let slip that they are having a son.

“My son will be an American, but I remain French,” he told People magazine on June 12.

Faye Jones: Missing teenager feared to be on the run with Turkish waiter Murat Can Ertani she met on holiday

Nancy Clayson
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Faye Jones: Missing teenager feared to be on the run with Turkish waiter Murat Can Ertani she met on holiday

Faye Jones, a British schoolgirl who went missing while on holiday with her mother in Turkey, is believed to be on the run with Turkish waiter Murat Can Ertani.

Faye Jones, 16, from Cramlington, Northumberland, has not been seen for three days since she fled with Murat Can Ertani, 22, in the popular coastal resort of Marmaris.

Her mother, Rhonda Jones, has been frantically searching for her ever since, but fears she may never see her again.

Turkish police say Murat Can Ertani is a criminal and has spent time in jail.

“This is my worst nightmare. She’s my only child and I’m a single parent. I never imagined she would run away,” she said.

Faye and Rhonda Jones flew over to Marmaris on June 27 to visit her grandmother who is retired and lives among the ex-pat community.

The schoolgirl was to be allowed to stay with her throughout the summer as a reward for working hard towards her GCSEs (General Certificate of Secondary Education).

According to Rhonda Jones, Murat Can Ertani was already waiting for her. The pair had met when the family visited the same resort on holiday last year.

Rhonda Jones, 39, told the Sunday Mirror she knew they had become friends on Facebook but that it was “nothing serious”.

Faye Jones, who went missing while on holiday with her mother in Turkey, is believed to be on the run with Turkish waiter Murat Can Ertani
Faye Jones, who went missing while on holiday with her mother in Turkey, is believed to be on the run with Turkish waiter Murat Can Ertani

“Faye’s not been into boys,” she told the newspaper.

“She’s been studying for her GCSEs at home and sometimes I have had to prize her out of her bedroom at home.”

The friendship was allowed to continue on the basis that Faye Jones was never alone with Murat Can Ertani.

But Rhonda Jones said things turned sour after an incident in a bar when Murat Can Ertani allegedly slapped Faye’s friend Georgina.

Mother and daughter argued and Rhonda Jones was so alarmed she decided to call off the summer stay. She told Faye she would be returning home her.

But unbeknown to Rhonda, Faye was still staying in touch with Murat Can Ertani via text. She waited until her mother took a last trip to the swimming pool before they caught the bus to the airport and then fled.

Rhonda Jones said as she ran out of the hotel she could see her daughter getting into a green car. She chased it down the street but was unable to catch up and Faye disappeared.

Turkish police were alerted and Faye Jones was spotted a few hours later in a shopping plaza, but when officers gave chase the couple escaped, dumping the schoolgirl’s suitcase in the process.

Rhonda Jones said she has spent every waking moment searching for her missing daughter.

She told the Sunday Mirror: “I just want Faye to know she’s not in trouble and to remind her how very much I love her. I have to know she’s OK. I’m desperate for her to come back home.”

More than 30 Turkish police officers are said to be on the case and the family have been putting missing person posters up around the resort.

The governor of Marmaris says authorities are doing all they can and are working round the clock to find Faye Jones.

The British Consulate is also offering support but Rhonda Jones says she feels she is battling on her own.

“I’ve been out day and night – I’ve never slept and I’m not hearing nothing,” the mother added.

JK Rowling publishes crime novel The Cuckoo’s Calling under pseudonym Robert Galbraith

Sonia Pantiss
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JK Rowling publishes crime novel The Cuckoo’s Calling under pseudonym Robert Galbraith

Harry Potter author JK Rowling has secretly written a crime novel – The Cuckoo’s Calling – under the guise of male debut writer Robert Galbraith.

The British author was acclaimed for The Cuckoo’s Calling, about a war veteran turned private investigator called Cormoran Strike.

The book, published in April, has sold 1,500 copies in hardback so far.

Her secret emerged after the Sunday Times wondered how a first-time author could produce such an accomplished work.

JK Rowling said: “I had hoped to keep this secret a little longer because being Robert Galbraith has been such a liberating experience.

“It has been wonderful to publish without hype or expectation, and pure pleasure to get feedback under a different name.”

JK Rowling has secretly written crime novel The Cuckoo's Calling under the guise of male debut writer Robert Galbraith
JK Rowling has secretly written crime novel The Cuckoo’s Calling under the guise of male debut writer Robert Galbraith

One reviewer described The Cuckoo’s Calling as a “scintillating debut”. Another praised the male author’s ability to describe women’s clothes.

A clue that JK Rowling was behind the novel was that she and “Robert Galbraith” shared an agent and editor.

The book was published by Sphere, part of Little, Brown Book Group which published JK Rowling’s foray into writing novels for adults, The Casual Vacancy.

There were also similarities in style between The Cuckoo’s Calling and JK Rowling’s other works.

JK Rowling said her editor, David Shelley, had been “a true partner in crime”.

Crime writer Peter James told the Sunday Times: “I thought it was by a very mature writer, and not a first-timer.”

The fictitious Robert Galbraith was supposed to have been a former plain-clothes Royal Military Police investigator who had left the armed forces in 2003 to work in the civilian security industry.

In previous interviews, JK Rowling has said she would prefer to write novels after Harry Potter under a pseudonym.

Another Cormoran Strike book by Robert Galbraith is in the pipeline, to be published next year.

Cory Monteith found dead at Pacific Rim Hotel in Vancouver

Sonia Pantiss
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Cory Monteith found dead at Pacific Rim Hotel in Vancouver

Cory Monteith has been found dead in a Vancouver hotel, police say.

Glee star Cory Monteith, 31, who played Finn Hudson in the Fox TV hit, was found dead at the Pacific Rim Hotel in the city centre on Saturday, said police.

The cause of death was not immediately apparent, police say, but foul play has been ruled out.

Cory Monteith, who had been in the musical comedy since its 2009 start, was treated for drug addiction in April, and had a history of substance-abuse.

His body was found by Pacific Rim staff after he missed his check-out time on Saturday, said Vancouver’s Deputy Police Chief Doug Lepard.

Cory Monteith has been found dead in a Vancouver hotel
Cory Monteith has been found dead in a Vancouver hotel

Cory Monteith had returned to his room at the Pacific Rim alone early on Saturday morning having been out with friends earlier in the evening, said Deputy Police Chief Lepard.

Coroner Lisa Lapointe said: “We do not have a great deal of information as to cause of death.”

Cory Monteith had been dating Lea Michele, who played his opposite number Rachel Berry in Glee, which follows a group of American secondary school misfits in their quest for singing contest glory.

Lea Michele loved and supported her long-term boyfriend and was proud he was seeking help, she told People magazine at the time.

Calgary-born Cory Monteith described himself on Twitter as “tall, awkward, Canadian, actor, drummer, person”.

Cory Monteith was treated for drug abuse aged 19 and had been open about his battle against addiction, telling one interviewer he took “anything and everything”.

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