Before rushing into an investment, you should first set out a plan to
give you an idea of your next steps. To help you find success as an investor,
you should take a look at this guide, which offers you step by step advice for
creating an investment plan that works.
Summarise your
situation
Before you even think about investing, you need to decide what you
want to achieve in the future. When making this decision, you need to be
realistic and consider what you can and can’t afford, while also considering
any roadblocks you have experienced in the past and what may happen in the
future.
You should start by creating a money fact find, which will help you determine how much you can spend on an investment. To do this, you need to answer several financial-related questions, starting with stock analysis, which will help you establish your monthly budget, asset income, and any debts you owe. You can then move on to your goals and aspirations, where you will determine the stability of your income, your money objectives, and future plans. Lastly, you need to analyse yourself and your past experiences in relation to how good you are with money, your time management skills, as well as how much you’re willing to spend on an investment. All of this with offer you a mini guide which will allow you to make smart and savvy investments.
Determine your
risk level
With any investment, you will face risk. Therefore, it is important to consider how you would cope with money loss and risk-related ventures. You also need to decide how much risk you’re willing to take. This usually depends on the age of the investor, as the younger you are the more risk you can afford to take.
If you have plenty of years left to invest, you should look into
property investment, which comes with some risk, although should offer you
massive returns. This includes both quick returns from rental income as well as
long-term capital appreciation, and can be put towards your general income or
used as savings to buy your dream house for retirement.
Make the right
investment
Real estate is one of the most lucrative investments you can make,
especially if it is done right. When choosing a property, you need to make sure
you’re looking in areas where there are high rental demand and good yields. You
should also look for properties with sought-after facilities, such as parking
spaces, white goods, large kitchens and more.
To help you make the right investment, you need to work with experts,
who know everything there is to know about property investment. They also have several
properties and off-plan developments available in locations hotspots like
Manchester and Liverpool, which have some of the highest rental yields in the
UK. With their help, you can rest assured knowing you’ve invested in a property
that will provide you with generous returns.
Monitor your
investment
While you may think your plan ends after you’ve invested, this is not
the case. Instead, you need to monitor your purchase, which is a lot easier if
you invest in property, as you can take a hands-on approach and perform all
landlord-related tasks. This will allow you to have full control of the
property and how well it’s doing, and you could even update the property to
ensure it reaches its full potential to increase returns.
If you do not have the time to monitor your property constantly, you
should hire a property manager or a company who will make sure that everything
is running smoothly and your property is tenanted. By outsourcing these tasks,
you will have more time to spend on enhancing your investment, and you could
even plan to invest in another property to expand your portfolio and increase
your profits.
As the uncertainty around Brexit continues,
people of all walks of life are exploring the threats and opportunities that
leaving the EU will bring.
Those of us that love interior design and
restyling our homes would certainly like an idea of what kind of impact Brexit
might have on our shopping and styling habits.
Of course there are no firm predictions
about what Brexit will mean, but here’s a summary of what’s being said…
Property
uncertainty
In the worst case Brexit scenarios, property prices are expected to fall. That’s never good news for homeowners, but for the millions who’ve yet to get on the property ladder, it could bring new opportunities.
Lower prices can often tempt amateur
developers into the market, who take on a property that needs a lot of work and
transform it into a dream home, adding tens of thousands in value.
In an uncertain market this can be a risky business, but many people have made good money this way. It’s amazing what a modern new kitchen or a stylish bathroom and luxury shower can do!
Price
rises post Brexit
Another potential consequence of Brexit is
that the value of the pound could fall, which could make buying things more
expensive, particularly items that come to the UK from Europe and beyond.
If you’re looking to make some changes to
your home, it could make sense to get it done soon. Don’t wait until the 31 October to buy high
value furnishings, for example.
On the flip side, currency fluctuations
could be a boost for British designers and manufacturers, as people seek to get
the best value on new products for the home.
Brexit
as a creativity booster
Of course, there’s also the chance that not
much will change after Brexit, depending on the conditions on which we do
finally leave… if we do at all!
It’s always wise to prepare for the worst
and hope for the best. As we have seen many times before, challenging times can
drive creativity and innovation. After all, there are lots of ways to restyle
your home on a budget, by embracing new ways to save money and thinking
differently.
That might mean adopting a more DIY approach, bringing in some home-made chic, or being a little more minimalist in your style.
Whatever happens, there will always be new
style trends to suit every situation, and we’ll be the first to report on them.
Medical assistant jobs offer a rewarding and exciting career in a fast-paced medical environment. Do you think you have what it takes?
Read on to learn all you need to know about becoming a medical administrative assistant.
What Is a Medical Administrative Assistant?
When you walk into a medical clinic, hospital or health care facility, the person sitting behind the front desk is typically a medical assistant.
A medical assistant plays a vital role in the daily operation of a doctor’s office. Medical assistant jobs involve taking care of all the clerical duties of the office. Read more about the outlook for medical assistants.
The role includes filing records, ordering lab tests, coding medical records, and completing forms for insurance companies. They also send lab results to the right location.
Medical assistants might also use a medical database to log records and can compile medical charts and records for better efficiency in the office.
Besides these clerical duties, medical assistants also perform general administrative tasks such as answering the phone and making appointments. Bookkeeping might also be on the list of duties, especially in a small practice.
Young doctor assistant standing in medical office noting prescriptions
Keep in mind that a medical administrative assistant is different than a medical assistant (though we use the term interchangeably in this article). A medical assistant performs admin duties but also performs medical duties like prepping patients for exams and procedures.
Day-to-Day Duties of a Medical Administrative Assistant
Your most important task as a medical administrative assistant is to keep your office running efficiently and smoothly.
The specific functions you do each day will depend on what type of practice you work in. It also depends on your department. You will spend a good amount each day interacting with patients (in person and on the phone) and also physicians.
You will also give patients exceptional customer service and help them feel comfortable.
Education Requirements
The best way to learn how to work in medical assistant jobs is with on-the-job medical assistant training.
Yet, there are also many medical assistant training programs that will give you a leg up on the competition. Look for colleges that offer 2-year Associate in Applied Science (AAS) programs. Or, you can opt to take a one-year program to get a diploma or certificate.
You can also become a certified medical assistant. More on that below.
You don’t have to have medical assistant certification for many jobs, yet it can certainly help get you the job.
Courses You Will Likely Take
Medical assistant programs offer a wide variety of courses that will prepare you for your role as a medical administrative assistant.
Here are some of the courses you may be expected to take:
Accounting
Anatomy and Physiology
computer applications
Ethics
Essentials in pharmaceuticals
healthcare law
Medical terminology
Medical office procedures
Medical insurance and billing
However, all programs are different. Check each college’s website for information on pre-requisites and required coursework.
On top of your academic courses, you will also get practical job experience by completing a placement in a medical setting.
Medical Administrative Assistant Certification Requirements
If you were the hiring manager at a clinic, would you rather hire the person with the relevant certification or someone without it?
Many organizations look for medical administrative assistants who have a type of certification.
Many professional associations offer certification including the American Association of Medical Assistants. Sometimes, certification is offered through the school program you attend. Or there are various online certification programs.
There are two choices for certification. You can choose to take a certification program or write an exam.
The certification programs can range from anywhere from six months to a year.
During this certification, you will learn everything you need to know about being a medical administrative assistant. You’ll learn the medical terms and abbreviations you’ll be expected to know. You’ll also learn the guidelines and regulations surrounding health care.
Your other option is to choose to write and pass a nationally recognized exam. This option allows you to bypass the training. This is a good option for those who have already completed a degree or program elsewhere.
Job Prospects and Potential Pay
By now you’re probably wondering if becoming a medical administrative assistant is worth the effort. You are wondering about the job outlook in the next 10-15 years and the average salary.
The good news is that medical assistants are in high demand. America is aging. The rising amount of elderly in the country will prompt a higher need for health care.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the medical assistance field will grow much faster than average. In fact, statistics show that the demand for these jobs will increase by a whopping 22% from now until 2026.
With experience, you can expect a steady raise over your lifetime.
Your salary will also depend on where you work geographically as well as in what field. Medical assistants working in research typically earn more.
Skills Needed to Excel as a Medical Assistant
Not everyone is cut out to do well as a medical administrative assistant. On top of the skills you learn in school, you need to have various other soft skills that will help you succeed in your chosen profession.
Medical administrative assistants act as the face of the organization to the patients. They also interact often with insurance providers and physicians. It’s crucial that they have excellent people and customer service skills.
A medical assistant wears many different hats (often at the same time). It’s helpful to be able to be a good multi-tasker. The best medical assistants are extremely organized and efficient.
Decision-making skills are also an asset. This will help you choose the best course of action when things don’t go according to plan.
Where Medical Assistants Work
Medical administrative assistants work in a variety of settings. Many work in private doctor’s clinics as well as walk-in and urgent care clinics.
There is also a need for medical assistants in both private and public hospitals. This includes outpatient clinics.
There are limited jobs at specialist offices such as at the offices of optometrists, chiropractors, and podiatrists.
Alternative Careers
If you like the medical field but aren’t sure if a medical administrative assistant is the right fit for you, there are other options you can explore.
Similar career options include medical secretary and health information technician. Here is what you need to know about each.
Medical Secretary
A medical secretary is a similar role to that of a medical administrative assistant. In fact, some clerical tasks may overlap.
Yet, medical secretaries perform even more complex office duties such as dictating notes for a doctor, fixing billing issues and dealing with insurance companies over patient coverage.
High-school education might be sufficient to get a job as a medical secretary. Yet, most clinics will prefer to hire those who have some college courses under their belt. Particularly in medical terminology and office procedures.
The average salary for a medical secretary is $24,857. And just like medical assistants, medical secretary roles are seeing faster-than-average job growth.
Though it is less money, this may be a better fit for you.
Health Information Technician
Health information technicians deal with the storage and retrieval of patient files. If you are an efficient person who loves to improve processes, this may be the perfect job for you.
Health information technicians organize paper and digital documents. They look at patient records to make sure they are accurate and complete.
They code files for various other purposes, convert paper files to digital formats and make sure documents are protected against unauthorized access.
This role has a lot less interaction with patients though there is still some interaction with insurance companies and physicians.
Those interested in this role will benefit from completing a health information technology associate degree. There are also some certificate programs available for this field.
Thanks for reading. We hope this in-depth look at the exciting career of medical administrative assistant has been useful.
If you enjoy interacting with people, enjoy multitasking and can keep your cool in a busy working environment, then this may be the perfect job for you.
Stay up-to-date with the latest world, culture, business, and lifestyle news. Come back again soon for more great articles for you to read.
The air compressor industry brings in around $12 billion every year in the United States alone.
It’s no surprise considering how many businesses and individuals use these units to power tools and perform other tasks. If you’re looking to buy one for yourself or your business, it’s important to consider a few things before getting started.
Keep reading for our air compressor buying guide which includes information about the four types of air compressors you can buy.
Air compressor system: manometer and accessories, closeup.
Types of Air Compressors
Before we get to the guide, let’s look at the basic types of air compressors you can choose from for workspaces.
Rotary Screw Compressor
These low-maintenance air compressors create air pressure thanks to two rotors which turn in opposite directions. They’re designed for continuous use and are typically large. This can make them difficult for home use and small spaces.
Centrifugal Compressor
For a large amount of power, there’s the centrifugal compressor which can reach up to 1,000 horsepower. They also work well for small areas because of their size. These compress air by using a diffuser to slow down and cool the incoming air.
Reciprocating Air Compressor
This is another small unit that works great if you need different amounts of pressure. A reciprocating air compressor uses a piston to compress air within a cylinder that you can then use.
Air Compressor Buying Guide
When you’re ready to buy an air compressor, you need to look beyond the types available. This is because, within the three main types of air compressors, there are additional ways to determine which unit is right for you.
Let’s look at the five things you need to consider before buying. Don’t be afraid to ask questions to get more info so you can avoid buyer’s remorse.
Drive Method
This refers to how the air compressor is powered. The most common drive methods are engines, motors, and steam. In some cases, this determines how much power a unit has, but it can also determine short- and long-term cost.
Cooling Method
This is generally a less important consideration, but one that’s important to know for properly maintaining your unit. Air compressors use either oil, air, or water to avoid overheating.
Compression Stages
If you need different levels of air pressure with the same unit, you’ll want to make sure you get one that has several to meet your needs.
Lubrication
There are two types of air compressors in terms of lubrication. Some use oil while others are oil-free. The oil-free units use oil for some parts, but not those that will come into contact with the compressed oil.
Level of Customization
How much customization you need depends greatly on what you’re using your air compressor for. Most people can get away with getting an existing unit although specialized companies and projects may need a custom-made unit.
Want More Current News?
With this air compressor buying guide, you should be able to go out and get the right unit for you, your work project, or your business.
If you want more current news, check out our blog. We help you keep up with what’s going on in the world today so you don’t feel left behind in life or business.
It is no longer a
big secret that for a successful and less painful life you need to have a
certain amount of insurance for all possible occasions. Of course, you can live
without them, but you may agree, it will be very “painful” in case of any
unforeseen situations. When it comes to auto insurance, this question is
especially relevant. Every year the number of drivers is increasing and so the
number of accidents on the road. So why not to think about how to protect
yourself?
Here car insurance quotes come to rescue offering an immediate understanding of various car insurance companies. We a priori cannot foresee troubles and protect ourselves from accidents, natural disasters, bankruptcy, illnesses, and other unpleasant things, but we always can at least cover all the damages. Auto insurance is the right thing that allows you to minimize the possible consequences and feel confident as a driver. But for this, you need choosing a truly reliable company among the variety of choices on the market.
Car Insurance Quotes: Choosing
the Best Company
Making auto
insurance is not a guarantee of your safety, because everything depends on the
company you select. Different insurance companies offer different conditions
and therefore differ significantly from each other. Your task is to approach
the question of choice with the utmost seriousness.
In addition, the
price issue is really important. Here are just a few parameters that are
necessary when estimating the price of the policy for you personally:
Age
Drivers over 25 always pay
less, since the category of a young driver is the most endangered one (most of
the accidents are made by people under 26 years old). Some insurance companies
use the information on marital status and whether the drivers have children.
Local rights
As a rule, local rights are
various in every state. It is always better to check what rights are suitable
for your region cause it will result in the price you will pay.
Driving experience
One more element that
affects the price of your car insurance is how much driving experience you
possess. Even the one who was a driver in another country can add his or her
driving experience.
The state where you live
Insurance is highly
dependent on the place where you live. Insurance companies look at the number
of accidents in the region in which you live. If this is a higher risk area,
then you will have to pay more money.
As you can see there
are many details that need to be considered before determining the choice of
the insurance company. But the good news is you can always simplify these tasks
through specialized services. In such a way you can estimate what agency is the
most appropriate for your needs and so make a more superior choice.
Using a site
aggregator is truly the most convenient and most reliable way. All you need to
do is insert the data, SSN number and get car insurance quotes. Then you can
confidently draw up a policy on the website of the insurance company. At any rate,
you will know exactly what anticipates you.
According to the national statistics
bureau, the figures pointed to a “complex environment” both at home
and abroad.
It said the country’s economy had
“performed within the reasonable range” in the first half of 2019 but
that it faced “new downward pressure”.
While China watchers advise caution
with Beijing’s official gross domestic product numbers, the data is seen as a
useful indicator of the country’s growth trajectory.
Other data showed some signs of
improvement in the world’s second largest economy.
Industrial production rose 6.3% in
June from a year earlier, while retail sales rose 9.8% year-on-year – both
above forecasts in Reuters polls.
Slowing growth in China has raised
concerns about the potential knock-on effect on the global economy.
Earlier this year China announced
plans to boost spending and cut billions of dollars in taxes in an effort to
support the economy.
It has also moved to provide a
liquidity boost by reducing the amount of cash banks must hold in reserve.
The US-led trade war is another
factor weighing on growth.
While the US and China agreed to resume trade talks at a recent G20 summit
in Japan, they have already placed tariffs on billions of dollars worth of one
another’s goods, hurting businesses and casting a shadow over the world
economy.
World No 1 Novak Djokovic saved two championship points in Wimbledon’s
longest singles final to retain his title in a thrilling win over world No 2 Roger
Federer.
Roger Federer led Novak Djokovic 8-7 40-15 on his serve in the final set but
the Serb fought back to win 7-6 (7-5) 1-6 7-6 (7-4) 4-6 13-12 (7-3) in four
hours and 57 minutes.
Novak Djokovic, 32, has won 16 Grand Slams – and four of the last five.
The Swiss said letting slip two championship
points in his Wimbledon final loss to Novak Djokovic was “such an
incredible opportunity missed”.
It is the second time Roger Federer, 37, has been involved in the longest
singles final at Wimbledon – and ended up losing too – after he was beaten by
Rafael Nadal in 2008.
Roger Federer has lost his past five meetings with Novak Djokovic in Grand
Slams, last beating the Serb at Wimbledon in 2012.
He still holds the all-time men’s Grand Slam record of 20 singles titles but
Novak Djokovic now has 16 with Rafael Nadal on 18.
Roger Federer, who during Wimbledon set two new landmarks in winning his 100th match at the championships and his 350th match at a Grand Slam, said holding the record was not what motivated him as a player.
Serena Williams, like in last year’s final defeat by Angelique Kerber,
seemed weighed down by public and personal expectations as she quickly fell 4-0
behind in the opening set.
Simona Halep had said beforehand that she had no pressure on her and that is
exactly how she played.
Defeat means Serena Williams’ wait for a first Grand Slam title since becoming a mum continues, as does her pursuit of an eighth Wimbledon singles title.
Simona Halep had lost nine of her
previous 10 meetings with Serena Williams.
She has now won the past two Grand
Slam finals she has appeared in, having been defeated in the three before that.
Serena Williams has lost her past three.
Although 56 minutes is a quick
victory, it is some way off the fastest Grand Slam final win – Steffi Graf’s
34-minute French Open win of 1988.
Simona Halep, who began the championships as world No 7, will rise to No 4 when the next rankings are published on Monday, July 15.
Investors
and business owners alike follow commercial real estate trends. They
wish to know what the future holds and how it may affect their
business or their investment portfolio. What are the four most
important trends they should be watching in 2019? Furthermore, why
are these trends of importance?
Industrial
and Multifamily Properties Remain in High Demand
ULI’s
2019 Emerging Trends report announces industrial and multifamily
assets will remain popular in 2019. Investors are grabbing up entire
portfolios to strengthen their position in the industry. A good
example of this is the Blackstone Group. This group recently obtained
logistics assets from Harvard University, investing nearly $1 billion
when doing so.
Retail locations are becoming hot again, especially those primed for upgrades or redevelopment. Investors snatch up these properties thanks to their low cost and ability to be used for alternative purposes. Anyone looking for commercial real estate needs to act quickly before they miss out on a great opportunity.
Office
Space Demand May Slow
Office
net absorption remains positive. If the country
continues to see job growth in those sectors making use of this type
of commercial real estate, investors may once again look to this area
to build their portfolio. Experts are noticing office real estate
expansion is greatest in those areas in close proximity to
entertainment venues and additional amenities.
However,
these buildings now consist of smaller workspaces that are more
flexible, and co-working is becoming more common. Nevertheless, if
fewer jobs are created, office demand will decrease thanks to the
supply levels. When this occurs, vacancy rates will rise and rent
will grow at a slower pace thanks to increased competition.
Real
Estate Tech Will Flourish
Real
estate brokers, as with any business person, look for ways to
simplify their daily operations. With the help of new technology,
doing so will be less of a challenge. New products can be of help
with everything from research to property management. Every company
needs to look into investing in this area or risk falling behind
competitors. In a competitive market, lagging in this area can be
very dangerous and lead to customers looking elsewhere. For this
reason, many in real estate will make boosting their technology a
top priority.
New
Brick-and-Mortar Retailers Will Emerge
Thanks
to many retailers closing their physical locations, storefronts will
sit vacant or so many believe. However, certain online retailers are
opting to make use of this space and are opening physical locations
to complement their current online presence. Amazon is one company
making this move, and it is joined by Athleta and Casper. These
retailers have very little to lose because the rents are incredibly
low as landlords try to fill the vacant spots that are overtaking
their properties.
Although
nobody can accurately predict the future, as there are too many
variables at play, experts can provide information on what they
expect to happen based on their insider knowledge. While these four
trends need to be monitored, this does not mean other aspects of
commercial real estate are to be ignored.
The
more a person knows, the easier it becomes to make informed decisions
that are right for their business. For this reason, every person
interested in this sector should follow the news to see what develops
and what may be coming. Knowledge always remains the most important
thing.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel was seen shaking for the third time in a
month during a ceremony in Berlin with Finnish PM Antti Rinne.
However, Angela Merkel, 64, insists there is no need to worry.
Video footage shows the chancellor
trembling, shaking back and forth alongside Finland’s prime minister during a
ceremony in Berlin on July 10.
After the incident, she said she was
“very well” and there was “no need to worry”.
A government spokesperson said the
chancellor would continue meetings as planned.
Angela Merkel was last seen shaking
two weeks ago ahead of a trip to Japan for the G20 summit. She told journalists
at the summit she was fine.
On July 10, she gripped her hands as
she tried to control her shaking, standing alongside Antti Rinne.
Angela Merkel was first seen shaking
last month during a welcome ceremony in Berlin for Ukrainian President
Volodymyr Zelensky.
In a press conference on July 10, Angela Merkel said she was “working
through what happened during the military honors with President Zelensky.”
She added: “This process is
clearly not finished yet but there is progress and I must live with this for a
while but I am very well and you don’t need to worry about me.”
Her spokeswoman, Ulrike Demmer, was questioned by German
media as to why the government had not provided any information on the
chancellor’s health. The spokeswoman said she had “nothing to add”.
Angela Merkel’s office has repeatedly dismissed concerns about her health.
Following her second shaking incident, a health specialist, Dr. Christoph
Specht, said that the chancellor could have contracted an infection. He said
shivering indicated an infection that was flaring up again.
German media have reacted with alarm to Angela Merkel’s health scare.
“The health of Angela Merkel is now a political issue,” an
editorial in the Bild newspaper read.
Angela Merkel is now in her fourth term as chancellor, a role she first
began in November 2005. She has said she will leave politics when her current
term ends in 2021.
Angela Merkel has been in good health while in office, and even worked from home after a knee operation in 2011. She also suffered a fall while skiing in 2014. Her absences were only brief on those occasions.
Having
a steam shower in your bathroom will be one of the best investments you will
make in your home. It offers many health benefits, and the long list of
advantages that you get from it is enough to convince you to have one
installed.
If
you’re in the process of building your dream home or renovating your bathroom,
below is a short fact checklist that you may want to review before purchasing a
steam shower.
The basics you need to know
A home steam shower works the same way as a commercial one that you see in spas and gyms. It offers plenty of health benefits, which includes improved functioning of the pulmonary system, increased blood circulation, and improved immune system. Steam showers also lead to healthier and brighter skin and are an excellent way to de-stress and relieve tension.
They
also come with timer functions and temperature controls, so you can have total
control when using it. This way, you don’t burn yourself when enjoying your
steam session.
There’s
an endless list of good reasons why it’s good to buy a steam shower and of them
is that you burn roughly 300 calories during a sauna session. Because of the
increased blood circulation benefit that you get from it, you will find your
metabolism working much faster than it used to. Basically, a faster way of
losing weight. Plus, it’s a more enjoyable experience as well with
aromatherapy, paired with soothing music.
Installation
With
steam showers, you don’t have to assemble them to install them. Instead, they
are manufactured as one complete unit so that you can put it in right away.
There
are different types of steam showers that you can buy in the market. Remember
though that even if they look alike, they aren’t necessarily the same.
Installation requirements depend on many things such as the model you purchase,
as well as the extras that come with it. As long as you have at least a water
pressure of 1 bar, you will be able to install and set up a steam shower in
your bathroom.
Health benefits that you get from it
There
is a long list of health benefits that you can get from steam showers. With
regular use, you’ll find it easier to breathe as the hot air and steam clear
your nose and lungs. This is beneficial for people who have sinusitis or
experience inflammation in the lungs.
Another
good thing with steam showers is that the improved blood circulation will relax
the muscles and if you’ll find relief if you have arthritis. It should also be
pointed out that the steam will open up the pores of the skin, which encourages
shedding and removal of deep-seated dirt.
There’s
more you can get from a steam shower installation and if you have extra budget
to spare, it will be a good investment with the health benefits it can offer
you.
Being in the public eye can be a pressure-filled
environment, leaving many famous people struggling to handle the stresses and
strains.
Creative types, top athletes and many other people cannot
handle being in the spotlight, often leading to them suffering with worry,
anxiety and depression.
However, by working with professionals to understand these
conditions, many celebrities have learned to manage the symptoms and thrive in
their respective careers.
Read on as we look at some of the world’s most famous people
have managed to conquer anxiety and worry.
Demi Lovato at Elvis Duran Show
Exercise the key for
Lovato
Singer Demi Lovato has regularly spoken about her struggles
with mental health and says she uses a variety of methods to deal with her
anxiety issues.
The founder of the ‘Be Vocal: Speak Up For Mental Health’
initiative, Lovato has regularly opened up about living with bipolar disorder
and battling anxiety in the past.
She says that solutions can vary from person to person and
has encouraged people not to stay silent about mental health issues.
“I can’t stress enough to vocalize your needs to a great support system – whether it’s your family or even an online community of people who are going through the same thing that you are,” she told the Huffington Post.
“It’s so important to vocalise what you’re dealing with
instead of internalising it and letting it manifest into unhealthy behavior.
That eventually leads to lifelong problems. That’s the most important thing you
can do.
“Exercising is another way I deal with anxiety. Painting,
and writing music and expressing myself through art are other ways that I can
release emotions. Meditation is another one. Whatever it is, it’s important to
find what works for you.”
Soreness, tiredness and feelings of nausea are amongst the
main side effects of intensive training and restrictions on certain
pharmaceuticals make it difficult for athletes to get relief from the symptoms.
With top level sports being a pressure-filled environment,
many athletes also suffer bouts of anxiety often brought on by concerns about
their injuries or worrying about performance.
Performing
helps Stone cope
Oscar winner, Emma Stone, says performing on the big screen
helps her cope with lifelong anxiety and panic attacks.
Stone struggled with deep separation anxiety as a youngster
and was eventually diagnosed with generalised anxiety disorder and panic
disorder.
She learned cognitive therapy techniques that helped her cope with anxiety and channel her feelings into productive behaviour.
“I believe the people who have anxiety and depression are very, very sensitive and very, very smart,” she said.
“Because the world is hard and scary and there’s a lot that goes on and if you’re very attuned to it, it can be crippling.
“But if you don’t let it cripple you and use it for something productive, it’s like a superpower.”
Today, she manages her anxiety with therapy, meditation,
being with others and keeping busy. She also steers clear of social media to
ensure she avoids putting herself in difficult situations.
She takes medication to manage her depression, but freely
admits that talking about the problem is the key to her wellbeing.
The ‘Star is Born’ actress created the Born This Way
Foundation in 2012 to build empowered communities and improve mental health
resources for young adults.
Gaga believes that mental health is just as vital to our
wellbeing as physical health, and insists that talking about it can really
help.
“I’ve suffered through depression and anxiety my entire life – I still suffer with it every single day,” she said.
“I just want these kids to know that that depth that they feel as human beings is normal. We were born that way. This modern thing, where everyone is feeling shallow and less connected? That‘s not human.
“I think it’s better when we all say: ‘Cheers!’ And ‘fess up to it.”
Fish urges people to talk
In 2012, tennis star Mardy Fish began suffering from anxiety
attacks so serious that he had to withdraw before a match against Rodger
Federer at the US Open.
His anxiety ultimately led him to retiring from the sport,
but therapy, medication and talking openly about his mental-health difficulties
have proved to be a life-saver.
“Mental health is not a very easy thing to talk about in sports,” he told the Players’ Tribune. “It’s not perceived as very masculine.
“We’re so trained to be ‘mentally tough,’ in sports. To show weakness, we’re told, in so many words, is to deserve shame.”
Fish has refused to be defined by anxiety disorder and has
found his way back into tennis as captain of the US Davis Cup team.
He believes that his previous experiences make him
well-equipped to help the current crop of players deal with the pressures of
representing their country.
“To be the Davis Cup captain, the next Davis Cup captain, I’m incredibly humbled,” Fish said. “I can’t even express how excited I am, how excited I am that the players have supported the decision.
“The friendships I’ve made throughout the years, relationships of all the players, not just the top players, is very special.”
According to a recent study, the popular herbal
extract ginkgo biloba may help the brain recover after a stroke.
The supplement, available in health food shops or pharmacies all over the
world, is used in China to aid memory and fight depression.
In a trial of 330 stroke patients over six months in China, ginkgo biloba
was linked with better cognitive skill scores on tests.
However, experts say the evidence for ginkgo is too weak to recommend it.
Those behind the study – published in the online journal Stroke & Vascular Neurology – admit
that larger, longer and more robust trials are needed.
The small study was carried out by Nanjing University Medical School, with patients from five Chinese hospitals.
All 330 participants began the trial within a week of having an ischemic
stroke. The average age of the patients was 64.
Roughly half of them were given 450mg of ginkgo biloba daily, in addition to
100mg of aspirin, while the remainder were given only the aspirin.
During a stroke, the blood supplying vital parts of the brain is
interrupted, often leading to impaired memory and a decline in organizational
and reasoning skills among stroke survivors.
Researchers wanted to see if combining ginkgo biloba with aspirin might help
lessen or halt the cognitive decline.
Previous experimental studies in animals have suggested that
ginkgo biloba protects against the nerve cell death associated with blood clots
in the brain, possibly by increasing blood flow in the cerebral arteries.
All the participants took a
neuropsychological test (Montreal Cognitive Assessment) at the start of the
trial, and then 12, 30, 90 and 180 days later, to check for any cognitive
impairment.
The results showed that those taking
the combination of aspirin and ginkgo biloba had higher scores for cognitive
skills, including memory and reasoning, than those who weren’t.
Speech problems and muscle strength
also improved more rapidly, with indications of improved functional capacity 12
and 30 days after the start of treatment. However, both the clinicians and the
patients knew which treatment they had been assigned to, which may have skewed
the results, and the monitoring period was not very long.
Ginkgo biloba is one of the oldest
living tree species.
According to researchers, the
extract used in the study contained more protective, and fewer harmful,
chemicals than the extract typically used in previous studies.
Few side-effects were reported
during the trial.
The participants were subsequently
monitored for nearly two years, with little difference in the vascular health
of the two groups: 16 people in the combined treatment group, and 20 in the
aspirin group had further problems, including recurrent stroke and aneurysm.
However, longer term studies looking
at stroke severity are necessary, before any more definitive conclusions can be
reached.
At least 23 people have been injured in an explosion at a shopping center in
Plantation, Florida, on July 6, officials say.
Video shows windows blown out of an LA Fitness while a building next door
appeared completely destroyed, with debris strewn in all directions.
No one was killed in the explosion, police said.
Thirteen people have gone to the Westside Regional
Medical Center emergency room, ABC News reported. Broward Health Medical Center
officials said they have two patients in fair condition: one in the trauma
center and the other in the pediatric emergency room.
Joel Gordon, Battalion Chief for Plantation Fire, told
reporters: “This could have been a
lot worse.”
As of a 1:30 p.m. press conference, no deaths were reported.
“At this point, nobody was killed.
Thank goodness for that. As bad as it is, it could have been a lot worse,”
said Joel Gordon.
The vacant pizza restaurant where the explosion occurred was completely
destroyed and an LA Fitness nearby sustained heavy damage caused by the
blast, with debris and glass filling the nearby parking lot.
Fire departments from Plantation, Davie, Lauderhill, Coral Springs, as well
as Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue have all been called to the scene.
Footage from inside the fitness center showed crowds
hurrying out of the building, some limping and in shock, while its front
windows were nearly blown out front the massive blast.
Plantation Fire tweeted that the explosion occurred along
the 800 block of South University Drive on Saturday and police have closed the
road. Motorists are advised to avoid the area.
Plantation police tweeted: “All
stores and businesses in the area of the Fountains Plaza and the Plantation Marketplace
plaza near LA Fitness will be shut down until further notice until Fire
Personnel can determine that it is safe to return. Please do not come into this
area if possible.”
Firefighters with dogs were seen going through the rubble to determine if anyone
was still underneath.
According to police, a family and business reunification center has been set up at Plantation Central Park, 9151 NW 2nd Street.
Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor,
the son of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, has been christened by the
Archbishop of Canterbury in a private ceremony.
The royal baby was baptized in front
of close family and friends in the private chapel at Windsor Castle on July 6.
Prince William and Kate Middleton
attended but were not thought to have their children with them.
Queen Elizabeth II did not attend
due to a prior engagement.
Prince Charles and the Duchess of
Cornwall were reported to have arrived at the ceremony by helicopter and Meghan
Markle’s mother, Doria Ragland, also attended.
A full list of the 25 guests has not
been made public, but Lady Jane Fellowes and Lady Sarah McCorquodale – the
sisters of Prince Harry’s mother, the late Diana, Princess of Wales – were
pictured in an official photograph taken at the christening.
A Royal Communications spokesperson
said: “The Duke and Duchess of
Sussex are overjoyed to share the happiness of this day, and would like to
thank everyone around the world for their ongoing support.
“They feel so fortunate to have enjoyed this special
moment with family and Archie’s godparents.”
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex opted
to exclude the press and the public from the day and chose not to reveal the
names of Archie’s godparents.
Instead of having press
photographers, fashion photographer Chris Allerton – who took their wedding
photos – captured the special moment, with two pictures released to the public
and posted on the couple’s Instagram account.
Chris Allerton said he was
“honored” to take the official photographs and “be part of such
a joyous occasion”.
However, Prince Harry and Meghan did follow some royal traditions.
Archie wore a handmade replica of the royal christening robe which was made
for Queen Victoria’s eldest daughter.
The robe, which has been worn by royal infants on the occasion of their
christening for the last 11 years, was made by Angela Kelly, dressmaker to the
Queen.
The ornate Lily Font, commissioned by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert for the baptism of their first child Victoria, Princess Royal, in 1841, was also used – as was water from the River Jordan.
North Korea says Alek Sigley, who
had been detained for several days before being released, had been
“spying” for news outlets.
The 29-year-old Australian student
was reported missing in late June, but was freed on July 4 after Swedish
officials in Pyongyang met the North Korean government.
NK News, one of
the websites to publish Alek Sigley’s writing, has rejected North Korea’s
claims that he spied for them.
It said Alek Sigley’s columns only
“presented an apolitical view of life in Pyongyang”.
Alek Sigley, a fluent Korean
speaker, had been living in Pyongyang while studying a Master’s at Kim Il-sung
University and running a tourism business.
He has not commented on why he
detained. Following his release, he flew to Japan, where his wife lives.
On July 6, North Korea’s state-run news agency KCNA said that Alek Sigley
had “on numerous occasions transferred information, including photographs
and analysis that he gathered while travelling to every corner of Pyongyang
using his status as an international student”.
Alek Sigley had done this “upon request by anti-DPRK [North Korea] news
outlets such as NK news”, KCNA added.
The North Korean government decided to deport him on humanitarian grounds
after he “honestly admitted that he had been spying… and repeatedly
asked for our forgiveness for infringing on our sovereignty”, it said.
North Korea often accuses foreigners detained in its country of espionage or
“hostile acts”.
In a statement, NK News, a website specializing in North Korean news and analysis,
said it appreciated “the DPRK’s decision to promptly release Sigley on
humanitarian grounds”.
The website said it had published six articles from Alek Sigley which showed “vignettes of ordinary daily life in the capital”.“The six articles Alek published represent the full extent of his work with us and the idea that those columns, published transparently under his name between January and April 2019, are ‘anti-state’ in nature is a misrepresentation which we reject.”
Southern California has been hit by a 7.1-magnitude
earthquake, the biggest tremor to strike in 20 years.
The quake struck at the shallow depth of 0.6 miles and its epicenter was near
the city of Ridgecrest, about 150 miles north-east of Los Angeles.
On July 4, a 6.4-magnitude quake hit the same area at a depth of nearly 6.5
miles.
The earthquake was felt as far away
as Las Vegas in the neighboring state of Nevada and over the border in Mexico.
California Governor Gavin Newsom
offered his heartfelt support to all those affected, and has requested a
Presidential Emergency Declaration and federal aid to help.
Fires have broken out and emergency
services are responding to calls across the state after the quake.
Kern County Fire Department Chief David Witt said about 1,800 people had no
power after the quake, but added there were “nothing but minor injuries…
such as cuts and bruises, by the grace of god”.
According to the San Bernardino County Fire Department, “damage is more
significant than yesterday’s quake”, and said they were tackling blazes
and gas leaks.
Officials said it was still unclear how much damage had been caused and how
many people had been injured in the state.
The LA Fire Department however said nobody had been killed or injured. A
statement after the latest quake said the authorities had seen “no major
infrastructure damage” after a survey of the city.
Crowds at a Los Angeles Dodgers baseball game were seen leaving their seats
when the quake struck, although the players themselves continued playing.
A US Navy weapons testing station near Ridgecrest was also affected.
NAWS China Lake – the Navy’s single largest landholding, covering an area
larger than the state of Rhode Island – announced on Facebook it is “not
mission capable until further notice”, without providing details.
In Las Vegas, a basketball match between the New York Knicks and the New
Orleans Pelicans was abandoned because of the tremors.
The quake hit at 20:19 local time on July 5, the US Geological Survey (USGS)
said.
After July 4 event, seismologists had been warning that aftershocks could
continue for a prolonged period of time.
California is prone to earthquakes as it lies on a number of faults – regions where tectonic plates come together.
President Donald Trump is preparing to address
an Independence Day military parade event in Washington DC that he promises
will be the “show of a lifetime”.
Thousands of troops are being assembled at a red-, white- and blue-draped
Lincoln Memorial to hear the first such speech by a president since 1951.
Armored carriers and tanks are part of the “Salute to America”
backdrop.
Opponents accuse President Trump of politicizing the holiday ahead of a
re-election campaign and wasting taxpayer’s money.
The Pentagon has not revealed the cost of the parade, which many believe was
inspired by President Trump’s visit to the Bastille Day parade hosted by French
President Emmanuel Macron.
Some reports say the National Park Service is diverting nearly $2.5 million
to cover the cost.
As well as tanks, President Trump’s 4th of July celebration will
also feature a military jet flyover and an extended fireworks show.
As the armored vehicles were transported from a railyard in south-eastern
Washington DC on July 2, military officials advised residents not to be
alarmed.
The two 70-tonne Abrams tanks have to stay on a side road as they are too
heavy for the memorial’s surrounding areas.
In a morning tweet, President Trump said the parade was “turning out to
be one of the biggest celebrations in the history of our Country”.
The president will be keeping a keen eye on the turnout, given the arguments
over the claimed attendance of his inauguration ceremony back in 2017.
The event will be open to the public free of charge, apart from a ticketed area for VIPs in front of the memorial.
Large numbers of Trump supporters wearing Make American Great Again hats –
and opponents upset at the cost – have been descending on the capital.
The musical playlist includes the Star
Wars theme and Hail to the Chief.
Donald Trump’s speech is at 18:30 local time.
The president will be joined by a Pentagon delegation led by the
highest-ranking US military officer, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
General Joseph Dunford.
However, the service chiefs of the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps
will not attend.
The Defense Department said in a statement it had received 5,000 tickets
from the White House.
The White House has also distributed VIP tickets to major donors and
political appointees, amid reported concerns that empty seats might be visible.
President Trump said in a tweet that
the expense “will be very little compared to what it is worth”.
Military flyovers alone cost tens of
thousands of dollars per hour.
President Trump’s plans for a military display on Veterans Day in November 2018 were dropped after defense officials said it would cost about $92 million – more than three times the original estimate.
Financial emergencies can hit anybody at any
time. Even if you know how to save money effectively and
have built up an emergency fund to assist you during a financial crisis, there
will be times in your life where you need a lot of money quickly to maintain
your quality of life.
There are many different types of financial emergencies that can drain your emergency fund and force you to look outward for additional money. With that said, some financial emergencies are more common than others.
Common Financial Emergencies:
Medical bills
Funeral expenses
Car trouble
Cost of living increases
Household repairs
Job loss
Various Ways to Cover an Unexpected Financial Emergency
When a financial emergency hits, like the ones
listed above, it can create a heavy mark on your life. You will need quick
financial relief to handle this unforeseen situation, and luckily, there may be
several options you could take advantage of.
Using Your Existing Emergency Fund
If you have an emergency fund, you may be
tempted to deplete it when you need money to resolve a current predicament. But
this may not be the best option for your finances.
Emergency funds are set in place to cushion you from financial instability, but depending on your current situation, you may be better off looking for funds elsewhere. It’s recommended that you only use your emergency funds for those once-in-a-lifetime catastrophes.
But if you must, make sure you use no more
than 50% of whatever funds you have managed to save so far. This way you still
have an emergency fund for any other financial dilemmas in the future.
Acquiring Money from Friends or Family
There are many great perks to borrowing funds
from family and friends, however, just as many pitfalls.
This funding method may not be an option for
many, as the amount needed to cover the full cost of a financial emergency may
be too great. But if you’re able to acquire the money you need from a family
member or friend, then you could save on interest rates and pesky fees. Not to
mention, the repayment terms could be incredibly flexible. But there could be
many repercussions if the exchange is not handled with care.
If your financial situation doesn’t improve,
then you could risk the relationship you have with the individual you borrowed
money from. If the terms of the loan were not gone over in detail, the
miscommunication could cause a rift in the relationship between you and the
family member or friend.
Using a Quick Payday Loan
If you need a lot of monetary funds to cover
the total cost of the financial crisis you are facing, then you may have
thought about applying for a payday loan.
Payday loans are unsecure loans, meaning that
no collateral is needed to acquire the loan. This is great news, as you do not
have to risk a valuable asset like a sentimental piece of jewelry. But while
payday loans offer quick financial relief to those facing an emergency with a
deadline, they may not be the best option.
These quick relief loans come with many
setbacks, such as:
High interest rates
Short repayment terms (2 weeks)
Hidden fees
The name is reflective of the repayment terms,
as repayment is typically expected by the borrowers upcoming payday. If you
don’t have the full loan amount plus fees by then, you risk incurring even more
fees and falling further into debt.
Applying for a Convenient Title Loan
Title loans are another borrowing option that
many people turn to. Just as popular as payday loans, with significantly better
terms.
Title loans, unlike payday loans, are secure
loans. Unfortunately, this means that collateral will be required—in the form
of a car. To obtain a title loan, the borrower uses the car as collateral by
giving the title to the lender for the duration of the loan.
This downside may not be so grim though, as
many lenders allow the borrower to keep driving their car while making
payments. And since the loan is secure, the lender may offer better terms.
Title loans could offer borrowers the
following benefits:
Longer loan terms (up to a few
years!)
Flexible eligibility requirements
Quick approval and funding
Competitive interest rates
Title loans are a great funding option for those facing a financial emergency due to their ease and convenience. Credit is typically not the main qualifying factor with title loans, making them easier to acquire than most other types of loans.
Consider the many funding options available to
you, including using your emergency fund, payday loans, and title loans.
Consider how much you need and how long you would need to repay any money you
borrow. Financial emergencies can pop up out of the blue, but you don’t have to
be left adrift.
Hundreds of protesters have occupied
Hong Kong’s parliament building for hours after breaking away from a protest on
the anniversary of the state’s transfer of sovereignty to China from Britain.
Police firing tear gas have moved in
to evict protesters from the Legislative Council (LegCo) building.
At midnight, local time, hundreds of
police charged towards the building after warning protesters to clear it.
The incident follows weeks of unrest
in Hong Kong over a controversial extradition law.
Hundreds of thousands took part in
the earlier protest – the latest rally against a proposed law that critics fear
could be used to extradite political dissidents to mainland China.
Dozens of demonstrators smashed
their way through the glass facade of LegCo. They were joined inside by
hundreds more after police vacated the building during the evening.
Inside the building, protesters
defaced the emblem of Hong Kong in the central chamber, raised the old British
colonial flag, spray-painted messages across the walls, and shattered
furniture.
They clad in plastic helmets and
brandishing umbrellas retreated from a baton charge by riot police, who quickly
overcame the makeshift barriers in front of the building.
Inside, diehard demonstrators were
pulled forcibly outside by their fellow occupants in an attempt to completely
clear the building.
Democratic lawmakers Ted Hui and Roy
Kwong stood in front of police asking them to allow protesters time to leave
the area, the South China Morning Post
reported.
Within an hour, the streets around the parliament building were clear of
everyone except the media and police.
President Donald Trump and North Korean leader
Kim Jong-un have held a symbolic meeting at the DMZ, the heavily fortified zone
dividing the two Koreas.
Donald Trump became the first sitting US president to cross into North Korea
after meeting Kim Jong-un at the demilitarized zone.
Critics have dismissed it as pure political theatre, but others say it could
set the scene for future talks.
Their last summit ended abruptly with no progress on denuclearization talks.
Speaking to reporters alongside Kim Jong-un at the DMZ, President Trump said
it was a “truly historic” moment and that he was “proud to step
over the line” between the Koreas.
Kim Jong-un, in a rare statement to the press, said the meeting was a symbol
of the “excellent” relationship between him and President Trump.
Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un meeting in June 2018 Image source Wikipedia
With no time for the all-important backroom diplomacy, it was expected to be
largely a photo opportunity. However, the dramatic meeting will be seen as a sign
of their ongoing commitment to the denuclearization talks.
Negotiations with North Korea, to try to convince it to abandon its
controversial nuclear program, reached a peak last year when Donald Trump and Kim
Jong-un had a historic meeting in Singapore.
They both committed to the “complete denuclearization” of the
Korean peninsula, but without clarifying what that meant.
It was hoped their second meeting,
in Hanoi in February 2019, would make some concrete agreement about North Korea
handing over its nuclear program in exchange for some of the tight sanctions
against it being lifted.
Hwever, those talks ended with no
deal, as they failed to agree on the pace at which sanctions should be eased.
Since then the negotiations have stalled, though Kim Jong-un and President Trump
have exchanged letters recently.
The DMZ, which runs about 2.5 miles
wide and 155 miles long, has divided the peninsula since the Korean War ended
in 1953.
Though that area, by definition, has no military installations or personnel,
beyond it lies one of the most heavily militarized borders in the world.
The Joint Security Area (JSA) located at the Panmunjom village straddles the
Military Demarcation Line and is where all negotiations between the two Koreas
are held.
Tourists can also go to the JSA when relations between North Korea and South Korea – still technically at war – allow it. No US sitting US president has been inside it. Bill Clinton once described it as the “scariest place on Earth”.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel suffered
two shaking attacks in eight days, but she says she is “fine” after
the two public episodes have sparked concerns about her health.
Speaking at the G20 summit in Osaka,
Angela Merkel said she was convinced that “this reaction will disappear
just as it has arisen”, German news agency DPA said.
Asked what lay behind it and whether
she had seen a doctor, Angela Merkel said she had “nothing in particular
to report”.
On June 27, the German chancellor was
seen shaking for two minutes at a ceremony in Berlin.
Angela Merkel, who turns 65 next
month, gripped her arms until she became steadier. She was offered a glass of
water but did not drink it.
The previous incident – which she
later blamed on dehydration – saw her shaking while standing next to Ukraine’s
President Volodymyr Zelensky in hot sunshine.
In 2017, Angela Merkel had an earlier bout of shaking in hot weather on a
visit to Mexico as she was attending a military honors ceremony.
Reports said that subsequent medical checks had found nothing to be wrong.
Government spokesman Steffen Seibert tweeted a video of the
chancellor making a speech covering topics such as extremism, women’s
empowerment and climate change. It showed her standing and speaking in a
relaxed manner.
Angela Merkel is now in her fourth term as chancellor, a role she began in
November 2005. She has said she will leave politics when her current term ends
in 2021.
She has a reputation for remarkable stamina – during intensive late-night
discussions at EU summits, for example.
Angela has been in good health while in office, and even worked from home
after a knee operation in 2011. She suffered a fall while skiing in 2014. Her
absences were only brief on those occasions. Her mother died earlier this year.
President Donald Trump and his Chinese
counterpart, President Xi Jinping, have agreed to resume trade talks, easing a
long row that has contributed to a global economic slowdown.
The US and China reached agreement at the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan.
President Trump also said he would allow US companies to continue to sell to
the Chinese tech giant Huawei, in a move seen as a significant concession.
He had threatened additional trade sanctions on China.
However, after the meeting on the sidelines of the main G20 summit in Japan,
President Trump confirmed that the US would not be adding tariffs on $300 billion
worth of Chinese imports.
He also said he would continue to negotiate with China “for the time
being”.
At a subsequent press conference, President Trump declared
that US technology companies could again sell to China’s Huawei – effectively
reversing a ban imposed last month by the US commerce department.
The US and China have been fighting a damaging trade war over the past year.
Donald Trump accused China of stealing intellectual property and forcing US
companies to share trade secrets in order to do business in China, which in
turn said US demands for business reform were unreasonable.
The feud escalated in the months leading up to the G20 summit, after talks
between the two countries collapsed in May.
The truce signals a pause in hostilities rather than a resolution of the
dispute, which has caused market turbulence and hit global growth.
President Trump said his meeting with President Xi was “excellent, as good as it was going to be,” adding: “We discussed a lot of things and we’re right back on track and we’ll see what happens.”
China’s state news agency Xinhua quoted President Xi as saying: “China and the US have highly
integrated interests and extensive co-operation areas and they should not fall
into so-called traps of conflict and confrontation.”
Washington has publicly said Huawei’s
technology poses a national security risk, although President Trump has also
linked the issue to the trade dispute.
Last month, the US banned Huawei
from buying US goods without a license – including from Google, which is
crucial to many of its products. The ban could cost the firm $30 billion in
revenue this year.
President Trump’s decision to allow US companies to continue to sell to
Huawei “where there’s no great national security problem” could be a
substantial concession, although exactly how this will play out remains
unclear.
He said the Huawei situation would be dealt with “at the very end”
of trade talks.
The next summit is due to be held in
Saudi Arabia in November 2020.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has
continued to face questions in Japan over the murder in Istanbul last year of
Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi and the matter is likely to rumble on.
The UK and Turkey are among the countries still pressing the issue, although President Trump says “no-one blames” the Saudi crown prince.
The heat wave
that hit Europe this week has already claimed several lives across the
continent.
Temperatures in France were slightly lower than on June 28, when the country
recorded its highest-ever temperature.
However, some areas of northern Spain saw temperatures soar above 40C (104F),
with the city of Zaragoza recording 42C (108F) and a meteorological station
between the Catalan towns of Vinebre and Masroig – close to an area already hit
by wildfires – recording 43.3C (110F).
In France’s southern Vaucluse region, a cyclist died after falling ill in
the heat. According to officials, the cyclist had been in a mountainous region
and warned people against engaging in sporting activity.
According to meteorologists, the hot air drawn in from northern Africa and
high pressure over central Europe are contributing to the heat wave.
The UK recorded its hottest day of the year on June 29, with the temperature
reaching 34C (93.2F) at Northolt and Heathrow airports in west London.
On June 28, France registered its highest recorded temperature – 45.9C
(114.6F) – in the southern village of Gallargues-le-Montueux.
President Donald Trump has offered to meet
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un at the demilitarized zone (DMZ) between North
and South Korea.
North Korea has described President Trump’s offer as a “very
interesting suggestion”.
Donald Trump has arrived in South Korea to discuss the flagging North Korea
denuclearization talks.
If Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un were to see each other at the DMZ, it would
be their third meeting in just over a year, and their first since a summit in
Vietnam broke down in February.
President Trump tweeted: “After
some very important meetings, including my meeting with President Xi of China,
I will be leaving Japan for South Korea (with President Moon). While there, if
Chairman Kim of North Korea sees this, I would meet him at the Border/DMZ just
to shake his hand and say Hello(?)!”
President Trump – who is visiting South Korea after attending the G20 summit
in Japan – conceded that the pair could see each other only “for two
minutes”.
However, despite the apparent lack of any diplomatic preparation, some have
suggested another face-to-face meeting between Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un
could help reset relations and set the scene for future talks.
Only a few hours later, North Korea’s first vice-minister for foreign
affairs, Choe Son Hui, said in statement: “We
see it as a very interesting suggestion, but we have not received an official
proposal in this regard.”
Such a meeting, the statement added, “would serve as another meaningful
occasion in further deepening the personal relations between the two leaders
and advancing the bilateral relations”.
It remains unclear whether officials with President Trump were briefed in
advance about his overture to Kim Jong-un, and South Korea’s presidency said
nothing was yet confirmed.
Last week, a South Korean official said Donald Trump was considering a trip
to the DMZ, prompting speculation a meeting with Kim Jong-un could be possible.
President Trump attempted to make a surprise visit to the area in November
2017, but was forced to abandon the plans due to bad weather.
