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4 Innovative Battery Trends for 2018 and Beyond

Dana R
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4 Innovative Battery Trends for 2018 and Beyond

As smartphones become smarter, advanced wearables track our health better than ever and our computers morph from laptops to tablets and back, these innovative tech devices still share one thing in common: a reliance on often ho-hum power sources.

Fortunately, it appears that we are in the midst of a battery revolution that will allow our state-of-the-art tech devices to work better than ever, and for longer times. Here are four battery trends that may change the way we power up, both now and in the future.

Available now: mobile platforms with faster charging times

Thanks to advances in mobile platforms, devices can now charge up faster than ever. For example, the Qualcomm Snapdragon mobile platforms feature some of the fastest processors to date that are designed to offer both fast charging and long battery life. In addition, the Snapdragon mobile platform offers high performance, while being gentle on power consumption. When the battery finally starts to run low, Qualcomm Quick Charge 4+ Technology will boost the device back to 50 percent power in as little as 15 minutes.

battery-charge

Coming soon? Gold nanowire batteries that live forever

An exciting battery trend to keep an eye on are gold nanowire batteries that can withstand lots of charging. Nanowires, which are a thousand times thinner than a human hair, have typically broken down when being recharged. But thanks to a new discovery that uses gold nanowires in a gel electrolyte, this issue seems to be a thing of the past. Gold nanowire batteries were tested and recharged over 200,000 times in three months and showed zero signs of breaking down. Thanks to this emerging technology, we may someday soon have batteries that will charge an infinite number of times, preventing our need to eventually replace them.

Available now: using the power of the sun to power batteries

Solar energy gets a lot of attention for its ability to heat and cool buildings, but it can also be an effective way to power small devices in our homes, offices and retail locations. In a scientific nutshell, photons, which are the sub-atomic particles in light, are strong enough to push electrons from their orbits. As the electrons are displaced, they create a positive and a side to something called a photovoltaic cell, which creates electricity. Up until now, photovoltaic cells have been large and inefficient, but now they are smaller, lighter and much more efficient. As a result, we can now use solar power to use even weak sources of light to power a variety of products and devices. For example, Logitech has launched a line of solar-powered PC accessories, like a Wireless Solar Keyboard and Marathon Mouse combo for just over $100. The keyboard can run on regular lights found in most homes or offices, and the battery lasts for around three years.

Coming soon? A solid state lithium-ion car battery

Scientists from Toyota have tested a solid state battery that uses sulfide superionic conductors. What they discovered is a solid state battery that operates at “super capacitor levels” and will completely charge or discharge in seven minutes. In other words, this type of battery will be ideal for cars, and it will also be safer and more stable than current batteries.

It is good to know that as our reliance on different types of tech devices grows, researchers are hard at work discovering new types of batteries that will keep up with our power needs. From quick-charging mobile platforms and solar-powered batteries that are available now, to immortal batteries and safer and quick-charging batteries for vehicles that are on the horizon, the topic of battery trends is a fascinating one to watch.

Sridevi Funeral: Bollywood Star Cremated in Mumbai

Sonia Pantiss
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Sridevi Funeral: Bollywood Star Cremated in Mumbai

Sridevi has been cremated in Mumbai as thousands of fans gathered to pay their last respects.

Earlier, crowds clutching roses queued outside the Celebration Sports Club in the city to bid farewell to the Bollywood star.

A specially decorated truck carrying Sridevi’s body took hours to travel the 4 miles to the cemetery.

Sridevi Kapoor, 54, was cremated with full state honors. The actress died on February 24 in Dubai, where she was attending a family wedding.

According to police, her death had been “due to accidental drowning following loss of consciousness”. Sridevi was found in her hotel bathtub.

It had earlier been reported the actress died of cardiac arrest. The full post-mortem report has not yet been released.

Known simply as Sridevi, she was considered one of the very few Indian female superstars capable of huge box-office success without the support of a male hero. Sridevi appeared in nearly 300 films over five decades.

Image source Wikimedia

Sridevi Kapoor Dies of Accidental Bathtub Drowning

Whitney Houston possible cause of death: drowning in the bathtub, as prescription drugs were present in her hotel room

Large numbers of police were deployed outside Sridevi’s house, on the procession route and outside the Vile Parle Seva Samaj crematorium where the body was taken.

Her life on screen began at the age of four. Sridevi started her career in the south Indian film industry, acting in movies in all four major languages of the region.

Sridevi was cast in her first adult role at the age of 13 – that of a woman avenging her lover’s death.

By 1978, she graduated to an extraordinary career in Bollywood, where although she knew neither the language nor the culture of the Hindi film industry, she became one of its biggest stars.

Sridevi starred in classics such as Mr. India, Chandni, ChaalBaaz and Sadma, becoming one of the only actresses to build a successful career in both south Indian and Bollywood films.

She was rumored to be the highest paid in her field and her star power and charisma persisted for years to come.

Sridevi decided to take a break from the film industry after her marriage to producer Boney Kapoor and the release of Judaai in 1997. She made a comeback in 2012, starring in English Vinglish.

In 2013, the government awarded Sridevi the Padma Shri – India’s fourth-highest civilian honor.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m_7X8bKP7g4

Hope Hicks Resigns as White House Communications Director

Diane A. Wade
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Hope Hicks Resigns as White House Communications Director

Hope Hicks has resigned as White House communications director.

The announcement came a day after Hope Hicks testified in front of the House Intelligence Committee, but White House sources said this was not the reason.

The 29-year-old former model is reported to have told colleagues she was leaving because she felt she had achieved all she could. Hope Hicks has worked for Donald Trump for years.

Hope Hicks is the fourth person to serve as President Trump’s communications chief.

On February 27, Hope Hicks gave a nine-hour testimony in front of the panel investigating alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election.

She is reported to have admitted to the panel that she had occasionally told what amounted to “white lies” for President Trump, but she denied lying about anything relevant to the investigation.

White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders – who described Hope Hicks as “in a league of her own” – said it remained unclear when she would leave the administration.

Image source Wikimedia

Hope Hicks Reportedly Admits Telling White Lies for President Trump

Hope Hicks Replaces Anthony Scaramucci as White House Communications Director

Hope Hicks’ departure will come as a major blow to President Trump, who said he would miss having her by his side. A former press secretary, Hope Hicks rose through the ranks to occupy the desk closest to the Oval Office.

She kept a low public profile but recently found herself part of a scandal when newspapers exposed that she was in a relationship with White House staff secretary Rob Porter, who had been accused of domestic violence against past partners.

When news of the allegations against Rob Porter broke last month, it was Hope Hicks who helped draft an initial White House statement defending him.

President Trump was reportedly not consulted and was unimpressed with Hope Hicks’ handling of the controversy.

Hope Hicks became head of the White House communications team in August 2017, after the abrupt firing of Anthony Scaramucci.

In a statement, President Trump said: “Hope is outstanding and has done great work for the last three years. She is as smart and thoughtful as they come, a truly great person.

“I will miss having her by my side but when she approached me about pursuing other opportunities, I totally understood. I am sure we will work together again in the future.”

Anthony Scaramucci, speaking on Fox News, said: “She’s one of the least malicious people I’ve ever met in my life. She’s dedicated, she’s charming, she’s thoughtful, at the end of the day she’s going to have an unbelievable career.”

Hope Hicks’ departure comes just after Jared Kushner, President Trump’s son-in-law and senior adviser, had his White House security clearance downgraded.

Hope Hicks Reportedly Admits Telling White Lies for President Trump

Diane A. Wade
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Hope Hicks Reportedly Admits Telling White Lies for President Trump

In a testimony to the House Intelligence Committee, White House communications director Hope Hicks has reportedly admitted telling what amounted to white lies for President Donald Trump.

However, she denied lying about anything relevant to the Russia investigation.

Republican and Democratic lawmakers said Hope Hicks deflected some questions in the nine-hour hearing.

The 29-year-old former model has been by Donald Trump’s side for years.

Hope Hicks is seen as a key witness in the ongoing inquiry into alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 election.

Adam Schiff, the top Democrat on the committee, said afterwards that Hope Hicks answered questions about her role in Donald Trump’s campaign.

According to the California Democrat, Hope Hicks also discussed matters relating to the transition period between the election and the inauguration.

However, Adam Schiff said she would not answer any questions about events since Donald Trump became president.

Image source Wikimedia

Hope Hicks Replaces Anthony Scaramucci as White House Communications Director

Hope Hicks reportedly refused to answer questions about a 2016 meeting between members of the Trump campaign and a Russian lawyer at the Trump Tower.

When reports of the meeting first emerged, President Trump’s eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., released a statement saying the meeting was held to discuss Russian adoptions.

However, in a later statement, Donald Trump Jr. said the meeting had been held after members of the campaign were offered damaging information about Hillary Clinton from the Russian government.

Hope Hicks was with the president on Air Force One while they were penning the initial statement, which the White House has acknowledged Donald Trump had a role in drafting.

“All of our questions about what went into that statement went unanswered,” Adam Schiff told AP news agency.

“We got Bannoned,” said Democratic representative Dennis Heck as he emerged from the session.

Dennis Heck was referring to former White House chief strategist Steve Bannon, who declined to answer questions about anything other than the Trump campaign during his testimony earlier this month.

Hope Hicks has already testified to the Senate Intelligence Committee and met Robert Mueller, the Department of Justice special counsel.

Robert Mueller is investigating whether there was any collusion between the Trump campaign and Moscow, or obstruction of justice.

Money Issues And How To Solve Them

Dana R
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Money Issues And How To Solve Them

Picture Source

Having money problems is quite similar to having a messy house; it’s tempting to sweep those crumbs under the rug and leave the problem for your future self to fix, but you know your house is still a mess. And, in much the same way, you know you still have money problems even if you sweep your mounting debt or unpaid rent under the rug. Facing your money issues before they multiply is the smart thing to do. If you break up the problems into manageable chunks then you can get them out of the way and never have to worry about them again (assuming that you’re more organized with your financial planning in the future). Let’s talk about some of the big money issues that people face and how to solve them.

Struggling to pay bills.

Obviously, you know that the way to fix your unpaid bills or other debts is to pay them off, but that’s easier said than done. Perhaps you just don’t have the funds in your bank account to make your debt repayment or cover last month’s rent, but that can be fixed if you learn how to manage your money more effectively. It all starts with a budget. You need to make a note of your monthly income and then start to calculate your monthly costs. Your goal, of course, is to spend less than you earn. Work out how much money you need to set aside for bills, debts, gas, groceries, and other necessities on a monthly basis.

You should find that cutting down luxury expenses will ensure you can cover the necessities, but let’s say that it’s still hard to pay your bills with your available funds. What do you do? You find a way to reduce your necessary expenses (without turning off the electricity completely, of course). For example, you could reduce the cost of your grocery shop by growing vegetables and fruit in your garden. You could directly reduce the cost of your energy bill by insulating your home so that it’s cheaper to keep it warm. You could even reduce the amount of money you spend on gas by cycling to work or your local town more often. Thinking outside the box when it comes to the way you spend your money could really help you to cover your monthly bills.

Picture Source

A low salary.

For some people, a frugal lifestyle doesn’t help them to fully cover their costs of living. Your salary might just be too low to make ends meet. Still, there are options available to you. The job market might be letting you down at the moment, but you can take control of your own salary in the modern age. You could create a new stream of income for yourself by starting a profitable hobby online. People can make money selling all sorts of services these days. You could sell handmade jewelry or other quirky items on Etsy if you’ve always had a creative talent when it comes to crafting. Or you could start a blog if you’ve always been a bit of a wordsmith and make some money through advertising and sponsorship deals. Your spare time could be used to create some passive streams of income to help supplement your salary.

Of course, everybody’s circumstances are different. Perhaps your salary wasn’t always this low but you’ve been struggling to reach your earning potential as the result of a recent physical issue. Many people find themselves struggling to get the jobs they want because of they’re unable to do the physical work that they used to be able to do. However, if your issue is the result of a recent injury then you might want to consider the financial options on the table. You could be due compensation if you injured yourself on somebody’s property (without trespassing, of course), so you might want to look into slip & fall lawyers. If somebody else is responsible for your money issues because of their negligence then there’s always a legal course of action available to you. Whether you’re temporarily out of work or forced to take lower-paying jobs because of long-term physical damage, you should look into your options. Whatever your situation, there’s always a way to improve a low salary.

Everybody’s financial situation is different, but there’s always a way to fix your situation. It might require a little discipline, but you can make ends meet. Perhaps you could start taking out the cash you need every week and forcing yourself to use that rather than your credit card; it could help you to avoid non-essential expenses.

Monica Lewinsky Brands Bill Clinton Affair A Gross Abuse of Power

Nancy Clayson
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Monica Lewinsky Brands Bill Clinton Affair A Gross Abuse of Power

Monica Lewinsky has said her relationship with former President Bill Clinton constituted a “gross abuse of power” on his part.

The former White House intern was 22 when she became romantically involved with the then president, who was 27 years her senior.

Monica Lewinsky has written an article for Vanity Fair magazine, reflecting on events after the #MeToo movement.

She also revealed that she was diagnosed with PTSD after the scandal.

The condition was caused by being “publicly outed and ostracized” as the affair unraveled in the press and courts, Monica Lewinsky says.

News of Monica Lewinsky and Bill Clinton’s relationship dominated the US news agenda in 1998 and 1999, after the president initially denied it before admitting to “inappropriate intimate physical contact” with the former White House intern.

House Republicans then started impeachment proceedings against President Clinton, arguing he had lied to federal investigators. That effort eventually failed, and Bill Clinton remained in power until 2001.

Image source Wikimedia

Monica Lewinsky is back as Vancouver TED 2015 speaker

Monica Lewinsky Vanity Fair article: “I deeply regret what happened between me and President Clinton”

Monica Lewinsky and Bill Clinton relationship: Hillary Clinton’s letters to Diane Blair

Monica Lewinsky, now 44, says she stands by her 2014 comments that their relationship was consensual, but muses about the “vast power differentials” that existed between the two.

She says she had “limited understanding of the consequences” at the time, and regrets the affair daily.

The former White House intern wrote: “The dictionary definition of “consent”? To give permission for something to happen.”

“And yet what did the ‘something’ mean in this instance, given the power dynamics, his position, and my age?…He was my boss. He was the most powerful man on the planet. He was 27 years my senior, with enough life experience to know better.”

In the Vanity Fair essay, Monica Lewinsky also discusses the growing movement of women publicly speaking out against harassment and assault.

What To Look For In A Payday Loan Lender

Clyde K. Valle
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What To Look For In A Payday Loan Lender

There are hundreds of payday loan lenders available on the internet, but how can you truly know that you’re using a lender that’s reputable and reliable? When looking for payday loans direct lenders, there are a few factors which you will need to take into consideration, including whether they have the appropriate regulations and whether they state any extra costs clearly and concisely. If you’re in a financial emergency and urgently need a loan, but are unsure about which lender to choose, we’ve made the selection process a little easier for you.

Are They Regulated By The FCA?

Undeniably, one of the most important parts about choosing a payday loan lender is whether or not they’re regulated by the FCA. Before borrowing a single penny from a lender, you may want to check to see if they are authorised by the FCA. Usually, this information can be found in the footer of the lender’s website. The information you may consider include the FCA authorisation number and the company registration information. If you’re unable to find this information, it’s highly likely that the business is not as trustworthy as it should be.

The APR Rate That They Charge

Once you’ve discovered that your desired lender is regulated by the necessary statutory bodies, you may then proceed to investigate into their extra charges, with APR being the priority. APR stands for Annual Percentage Rate, yet confuses many people searching for a loan lender as it usually needs to be paid in monthly instalments. When searching for a lender’s APR, remember that the stated APR value isn’t the definite one that you’ll have to pay. Instead, you should only pay a fraction of the percentage, although this depends on several factors such as how much you intend on borrowing and how long you require the loan for. It’s worth noting that the very best lenders will tell you the exact amount that you’ll have to pay long before you’re expected to.

Image source Wikimedia

Is Their Website Secure?

When dealing with an online payday loan lender, it can be difficult to discover how reliable they are when human contact is limited. Naturally, one of the most important things you should look out for in a payday loan lender is whether or not their website is secure, otherwise your personal and financial information may be put at risk. Luckily, you don’t have to be a technological expert to do this either, as simple things such as whether they have a ‘https’ URL as opposed to ‘http’ can determine whether or not they have a secure website. In addition to this, particularly on mobile, you may see a padlock symbol next to the site address, which can also be a sign that a website is secure. If a lender lacks security features, you may want to look elsewhere.

Do Your Research

Before being completely set on a single payday loan lender, you’ll want to compare the market as much as possible, looking out for all of the above criteria. More established businesses will often guarantee you stability, and often all potential hidden charges will be made clear to you before you decide to take out a payday loan. Furthermore, you should always conduct your research to find out whether the site is mentioned elsewhere online in reviews or testimonials, as this can provide you with advice from likeminded individuals who have used their services.

Is It Time For A Second Opinion?

Dana R
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Is It Time For A Second Opinion?

When we visit healthcare professionals, we reassure ourselves they know what’s best. We, quite literally, put our lives in their hands. And, in most cases, they keep us safe. But, it’s impossible to ignore that medical errors are now thought to be the third leading cause of death in the U.S. In fact, it’s believed that such errors lead to an average of 251,000 lives every year. That’s more than issues like strokes and Alzheimer’s. No wonder many of us experience doubts when seeking medical care.

As a result, more Americans are finding themselves with no choice but to turn to medical malpractice attorneys to get them back on their feet. Individuals who enter hospitals for small procedures find themselves worse off on release. This can lead to lost work, finances, and, in extreme cases, life.

As such, it’s easy to see why many of us wish to seek a second opinion when we receive a diagnosis. In truth, this is rarely necessary, and we often attempt to avoid reality this way. A severe diagnosis is never easy to hear. But, there are cases in which a second opinion could be precisely what you need. Here are a few signs that’s true for you.

You don’t feel your doctor listened to you

It’s fair to say that our healthcare professionals are busier now than ever. As such, appointment times are tight. Doctor’s often spend more time taking notes than actually interacting with patients. That’s nobody’s fault, but it can lead to problems such as misdiagnosis, or unnoted symptoms. And, that can be serious if left unchecked.

If you can’t shake the feeling that your doctor wasn’t listening to what you told them, it may be best to seek another opinion. The chances are that this second doctor will say the same as the first, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But, this second opinion can put your mind at ease. After all, even one missed symptom could lead to a false diagnosis. When seeking your second doctor, opt for surgeries which seem quieter. Here, a doctor will be in a position to give you a touch more attention during your appointment.

doctor

Pixabay Image

No tests were offered

In some cases, a doctor will make an on-the-spot diagnosis, and suggest treatment. In many ways, this skill is essential in the medical profession. And, some issues don’t need tests to be clear. In some cases, though, doctors get things wrong. They’re only human, and they don’t know your body the way you do. If you feel confident something more sinister is going on, you might want to push for tests to be on the safe side. But, if a doctor is sure of their diagnosis, they could resist putting you forward. After all, tests cost money. If a doctor deems them unnecessary, it’s unlikely you’ll gain the closure you need.

That is, of course, unless you go and see someone else. Again, you may gain the same diagnosis. That in itself could put your mind at ease. Or, it may be the case that another doctor is more open to pursuing testing. In some cases, this is the only way to spot symptomless problems and could be the difference between life and death. So, if you can’t get rid of the niggling feeling things aren’t right, make sure you book an appointment elsewhere.

You don’t understand what you’ve been told

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In some cases, issues like these come down to nothing more than crossed wires. Doctors have a habit of speaking in technical terms that aren’t easy to understand. Many of us get into the habit of nodding along, then Googling what we can remember once we get home. But, that can lead to real issues if you go down a path your doctor didn’t mean you to. On top of which, you might misunderstand what your doctor wants from you going forward. Again, a break down here can lead to real issues.

But, it’s fair to say that some doctors are much better at getting their point across than others. If you don’t understand what one doctor has told you, don’t be afraid to head to another who may be able to explain it better. Many of us are too embarrassed to take this step, but don’t be. This is your body, and it’s crucial you know what’s happening to ensure recovery. And, if you don’t understand something the second time around, it’s likely you’ll feel more justified in asking for an explanation. By this point, after all, you’ll have a better idea of what questions to ask.

You aren’t happy with your treatment plan

In some cases, you may just not be happy with the treatment plan offered to you. Every doctor has a different way of operating. Some are hesitant to reach for heavy drugs, while others don’t think twice. If you don’t want to head straight for a chemical solution with side effects, a second opinion could help. You’ll be able to explain to them what you didn’t like about your previous doctor and work together to find something better. It may even be the case that you want to try some alternative medical solutions instead. Some doctors will shut down at the mention. Others are willing to assist you on a more natural journey in the right way.

Pexels Image

Whatever you don’t like about your current plan, don’t be afraid to see what someone else has to say. You can be sure that no two doctors will offer the same treatment plan, so it’s worth exploring here. It may be that other doctors can provide more gentle drugs which will work just as well. Either way, you won’t know until you try.

A final word

In truth, if you feel like you need a second opinion, it’s worth pursuing one. Even the same diagnosis from another professional can be enough to put your mind at ease. So, don’t hesitate to do what you think best when it comes to your health.

Ensa Cosby Death: Bill Cosby’s Daughter Dies from Kidney Disease Aged 44

Lisa.Felice
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Ensa Cosby Death: Bill Cosby’s Daughter Dies from Kidney Disease Aged 44

Bill Cosby’s daughter, Ensa, has died at the age of 44, a spokesman for the family says.

Ensa Cosby died from a kidney disease in Massachusetts on February 23, according to spokesman Andrew Wyatt.

In 2017, Ensa Cosby defended her father when he went on trial over allegations he drugged and assaulted a woman in 2004.

The judge declared a mistrial and a new trial will take place on April 2. Bill Cosby denies the allegations.

Ensa Cosby, who once appeared in an episode of her father’s program The Cosby Show, is reported to have had health issues in the past.

Image source Wikimedia

Sridevi Kapoor Dies of Accidental Bathtub Drowning

According to TMZ, which first reported her death, Ensa Cosby had been in line for a kidney transplant.

Ensa Cosby has three surviving sisters – Evin, Errin and Erika. Her brother, Ennis, was murdered in 1997 during a failed robbery attempt as he changed his car tire.

In a statement in May 2017, Ensa Cosby, a mother-of-one, said there was a racist motivation for her father’s prosecution.

She said: “My father has been publicly lynched in the media.”

Bill Cosby, 80, was accused of drugging and assaulting Andrea Constand in 2004. His lawyers had argued the act was consensual.

Dozens of women say Bill Cosby assaulted them, but statute of limitation rules mean he was allowed to be tried for Andrea Constand’s allegation only.

Sridevi Kapoor Dies of Accidental Bathtub Drowning

Lisa.Felice
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Sridevi Kapoor Dies of Accidental Bathtub Drowning

Bollywood star Sridevi Kapoor died of accidental drowning, a Dubai post-mortem report has said.

Sridevi Kapoor, 54, known simply as Sridevi, drowned in her hotel apartment’s bathtub following loss of consciousness, the report says.

It had earlier been reported that the actress died of cardiac arrest on February 24 while at a family wedding in Dubai.

According to the Dubai media, the post-mortem analysis had been completed and the cause of death ascertained.

Image source Wikimedia

Whitney Houston possible cause of death: drowning in the bathtub, as prescription drugs were present in her hotel room

Bobbi Kristina Brown Cause of Death: Drowning Associated with Drug Intoxication

The case has been passed to the Dubai Public Prosecution for what officials said were “regular legal procedures”.

Crowds have gathered outside Sridevi’s home in Mumbai to pay their last respects ahead of a cremation.

The Dubai government tweet did not reveal the results of any toxicology tests.

The full post-mortem report has not yet been made public and will be expected to explain how the original report of cardiac arrest and the listing of “accidental drowning” are linked.

Sridevi had been in the United Arab Emirates to attend the wedding of her nephew, Mohit Marwah. Few details had been given about the case prior to the release of the cause of death.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iBOfGqACh3c

Weinstein Company Plans to File for Bankruptcy

Clyde K. Valle
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Weinstein Company Plans to File for Bankruptcy

According to new reports, the Weinstein Company is to file for bankruptcy after talks to sell its assets to an investor group collapsed.

Talks ended two weeks ago when the New York attorney general’s office filed a lawsuit against the Weinstein Company.

Directors were quoted as saying bankruptcy was the only viable option.

Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein faces dozens of allegations of abuse, including rape, but denies non-consensual act.

The company’s board said in a statement: “The Weinstein Company has been engaged in an active sale process in the hopes of preserving assets and jobs.

“Today, those discussions concluded without a signed agreement.”

The statement said “an orderly bankruptcy process” was the “only viable option to maximize the company’s remaining value”.

Image source Wikimedia

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

Weinstein Company Investigated for Possible Civil Rights Violation

Harvey Weinstein Resigns from Company’s Board amid Multiple Allegations of Assault and Harassment

The civil rights lawsuit against the company alleges that Harvey Weinstein harassed and abused women employed by the studio for years, as well as making verbal threats to kill staff members.

It accuses senior executives at the company, including Harvey Weinstein’s brother Robert, of failing to prevent the mistreatment of staff despite being presented with evidence.

New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman is seeking an unspecified sum to cover damages, plus penalties, for victims of alleged abuse.

A lawyer for Harvey Weinstein has said a “fair investigation” will show that many of the allegations are without merit, while the company’s board of directors has said many of the allegations relating to the board are “inaccurate”.

The allegations against Harvey Weinstein first surfaced in October 2017, when the New York Times published a story detailing decades of allegations of harassment against the mogul.

Since then, more than 50 women, among them some of the biggest names in Hollywood, have accused Harvey Weinstein of assault, harassment, abuse and rape.

In the wake of the allegations, Harvey Weinstein was sacked by the board of his company.

He has admitted that his behavior has “caused a lot of pain” but has described many of the allegations against him as “patently false”.

Harvey Weinstein is under investigation by UK and US police, but no criminal charges have been brought.

Raj Nair: Ford North America President Resigns over Inappropriate Behavior

Clyde K. Valle
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Raj Nair: Ford North America President Resigns over Inappropriate Behavior

Raj Nair, the head of Ford’s US operations, has resigned following an internal investigation into inappropriate behavior.

Ford said its inquiry had concluded that some of Raj Nair’s conduct had been “inconsistent with the company’s code of conduct”.

The company did not specify why the investigation was started, nor what it uncovered.

Raj Nair said in a statement that he sincerely regrets certain behavior.

In a statement, Ford President and CEO Jim Hackett said: “We made this decision after a thorough review and careful consideration. Ford is deeply committed to providing and nurturing a safe and respectful culture and we expect our leaders to fully uphold these values.”

Raj Nair had been President of Ford North America since July 1. He was previously head of global product development and chief technical officer.

He apologized, without elaborating on the reasons for his going.

He said: “I sincerely regret that there have been instances where I have not exhibited leadership behaviors consistent with the principles that the company and I have always espoused.”

Jim Hackett Replaces Mark Fields as Ford Chief Executive

Ford Cancels Plans for 1.6BN Mexico Plant to Extend Michigan Operations

Raj Nair added: “I continue to have the utmost faith in the people of Ford Motor Company and wish them continued success in the future.”

A company spokesman said Ford would not be commenting on the nature of Raj Nair’s departure.

In August, Ford agreed a multi-million-dollar settlement after an investigation into harassment at two factories in Chicago.

The inquiry was conducted by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which said female and African-American employees had been subjected to harassment and found the Ford retaliated against employees who complained about the harassment or discrimination.

Following the inquiry, Jim Hackett wrote in a letter to employees: “There is absolutely no room for harassment at Ford Motor Company…. We don’t want you here, and we will move you out for engaging in any behavior like this.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dpbmuoWGdIA

Filling the Bucket List With Iconic, Inspiring Destinations

Dana R
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Filling the Bucket List With Iconic, Inspiring Destinations

Now, it’s fair to say that all travel is good. You can be exploring some quirky small town, your nearest big city, or even your own local town, and still have a good time. Travelling is a state of mind, not a destination! But then, let’s be honest: some destinations really stand out from the crowd. These are the iconic, inspiring destinations, the once in a lifetime places to visit. While it’s just fine to travel anywhere and everywhere, some destinations are worth the extra effort. Below, we take a look at the different type of places that you really should make a priority to visit.

Source: Pexels.com

The Great Cities

A lot of people can think of nothing worse than living in a city; the number of people, the noise, the chaos of the commute…it’s not for everyone. Yet while cities can sometimes reflect the worst in humanity, it’s also true that they’re home to some of the best aspects of human life, too: the art, the energy, the chaos – it’s intoxicating! If you’re looking for a bucket list of megacities you should visit at least once, then write down the following: London, Paris, New York, Tokyo, and Sydney. If you can’t have fun in those cities, then it’s likely you won’t have fun in any cities!

Nature’s Power

Life on earth can be divided into two different categories: the urban zones, and nature. While urban zones showcase humanity, the natural world showcases the power, beauty, and outright sublimeness of mother earth. There is no shortage of awe-inspiring natural places to visit, but they get no bigger (literally) than Mount Everest. You don’t have to climb to the top to feel its power (which is just as well, because that’s pretty difficult…!). Instead, take a look at Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal, Asia – G Adventures, and get up close and personal. There’s nothing that’ll challenge your worldview more than seeing the majesty of nature in all its glory.

Relaxing Spaces

Cities are far from relaxing, and while nature can be, it’s often not – simply because we’re usually so eager to get out and explore all that it offers. However, there are some places on earth that really speak to comfort and relaxation. We’re talking about the paradise islands and beaches where you have nothing to do but sit back, unwind, and enjoy all that the world brings. Take a look at the Maldives, or Seychelles, or those picturesque Caribbean islands; no-one ever regrets visiting these places!

Off the Beaten Path

Finally, remember that sometimes you’ll need to go off the beaten path slightly. Not all rewards come served on a plate! Take the Northern Lights, for instance. They are as magical as anything found on earth, but they’re not guaranteed, so you’ll want to ensure that you maximise your opportunity to see them. Head north, to the high points of Scandinavia or Canada, and give yourself some time to see them. You’ll need to be patient, but it’ll be oh so worth it.

The Dr Will See You Now: Tackling Aging Like A Pro

Dana R
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The Dr Will See You Now: Tackling Aging Like A Pro

Women are obsessed with staying and looking young, as are men for that matter. In today’s society, being old isn’t desirable even though it has its advantages. Knowledge is power, and you only accumulate both as you age. There’s a reason politicians and billionaires tend to be in their fifties when they make a major breakthrough. Regardless, we are slaves to public opinion and want to postpone the process for as long as possible as a result.

In your quest, methods such as face masks may have raised their head. And, in a bid to maintain your youth, you tried it in desperation. Sure, moisturizing and stay hydrated are neat home-based tips, but they don’t last forever. The long-lasting advice comes from the experts, and you need them to stay young for longer.

Don’t fret if your contacts are on the low side because Belle News has got you covered. These are the hacks you have to know.

Renunţe la fumat

Picture source

Stop Smoking

Smoking doesn’t apply to everyone, but the vast majority does like a sneaky puff. According to the stats, 1 billion people inhale around the world with 5 million deaths each year. Those that survive aren’t the lucky ones as they have to deal with a bad body image. Toxins and chemicals from cigarettes, such as tar, contribute to free radicals in the body. In layman’s terms, these are singular atoms that are constantly looking for a partner. To find one, they have to break down cells, and the process leads to everything from wrinkles to crows’ feet. Plus, it chips away at hormone production. Studies show that cigarettes damage collagen levels, and that causes lines to form prematurely. There are plenty of reasons to quit, but science is the ultimate factor.

Don’t Reach For The Stars

If you do, you may stray too close to the sun and get burned. Ultraviolet is no joke and should be treated with enormous respect. Aside from the fact it can cause burns and scarring, the sun is also a factor in contracting cancer. Only accounting for 1% of all cancers, melanomas are the most deadly form of skin disease. And, the sun’s rays can transform cells and encourage them to grow and spread. Obviously, a dangerous illness will result in a rapid breakdown of your body, which is why it should be avoided. Therefore, staying inside on a sunny day is a boring yet potential life saving activity. Alternatives for those of you with itchy feet include wearing sunblock and hats. Also, stay away from sunbeds.

Change Your Diet

Anyone who already eats leafy greens and doesn’t consume caffeine can read on. The rest of us need to think about what we put into our bodies on a daily basis. Junk food is delicious but it contains saturated fats and harmful nutrients. Regarding the skin, they often clog pores and kill off cells, both of which are factors in aging. The trick is to eat and drink stuff that has lots of healthy ingredients to help the body grow stronger and more efficient. Vegans and vegetarians benefit from their diet because fruits and veg are packed with vitamins, iron and potassium. Just as importantly, there are omega-3 fatty acids which are known as super-ingredients. With their antioxidant and inflammatory properties, fatty acids reduce redness eliminate acne. Clear skin is tighter and firmer and looks more youthful, and it’s all down to spinach, kale, and white fish.

Give In To Sleep

There is never enough time in the day. At, least that’s what the uber-busy people believe. The truth is that there are plenty of hours to run errands, have fun and laugh, and relax. Your problem is you don’t give equal weighting to significant moments in the day. Take sleep as an example. Career-driven men and women will be lucky to get 6 hours a night. Research states an average adult needs at least 7 and 9 is optimal. The reason is regeneration. During REMS and deep sleep, the body gets a chance to reboot. Therefore, the factors which are causing the signs of aging to show are dealt with before the morning. When you wake up prematurely, the problems still exist and exacerbate over time making the eyes and the face appear weathered. Sleep refreshes the entire body and resets it back to its original settings.

people

Picture source

Troll For Aids

In this situation, trolling doesn’t mean to provoke a reaction unnecessarily. Instead, it recommends searching the World Wide Web for beauty products. Let’s get one thing straight – there is no miracle cure. Going under the knife is risky business, too, because some patients look plastic and unnatural. That being said, beauty products which can stem the tide do exist and are available online. One that you may be unaware of is brightening serum for dark skin. Asians go mad for these cocktails, but westerners don’t want to be whiter; they want their skin to tan. However, it does contain hyaluronic acid and plenty of vitamins. As a result, tests show it does have smoothing benefits as well as helping to minimize pore damage. Aloe vera is another natural remedy to consider as it’s plant-based and is full of antioxidants.

Target The Correct Areas

‘I don’t know why I have bags under my eyes – I moisturize every day!’ Many people say this to themselves and fail to see the obvious. Unless lotion is applied to your eyes, the skin won’t tighten and will continue to look old. As silly as it sounds, people don’t target the problem areas when they try to fight aging. Professionals always recommend focusing on the main issues first and discarding the rest. For instance, the face, the neck and the hands are three notorious body parts regarding rapid aging. Because they show the signs earlier than the rest of the body, they should be at the top of your list. Everything else can wait until they are under control.

Aging is inevitable, but how do you plan on tackling lines and wrinkles when they begin to appear?

Petro: Venezuela Launches Ethereum-Based Cryptocurrency

Clyde K. Valle
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Petro: Venezuela Launches Ethereum-Based Cryptocurrency

Venezuela has launched the “Petro” cryptocurrency in an attempt to bypass tough economic sanctions imposed by the United States.

Petro is intended to bolster Venezuela’s crumbling economy, which has been suffering from hyperinflation and devaluation for years.
Venezuela claims Petro is the world’s first sovereign cryptocurrency.
Critics say the move is a desperate attempt by the government to raise cash at a time when the country lacks the ability to repay its $150 billion of foreign debt.

Image source Wikimedia

US Extends Travel Ban to North Korea, Venezuela and Chad

Venezuela Crisis: Argentine Airlines Becomes Latest Carrier to Suspend Flights to Caracas

Opposition leaders said the sale constitutes an illegal issuing of debt, while the US Treasury Department warned it may violate sanctions imposed in 2017.
The Venezuelan government says the currency aims to circumvent US sanctions on the economy.
President Nicolas Maduro has said each tokens will be backed by a barrel of Venezuelan crude. Venezuela has the world’s largest proven oil reserves.
A total of 100 million Petros will be sold, with an initial value set at $60, based on the price of a barrel of Venezuelan crude in mid-January.
On February 20, the official website published a guide to setting up a virtual wallet in which to hold the Petro, but did not provide a link for actually doing so.
There was also no information on exchanges.

North Korea Canceled Meeting with VP Mike Pence at Winter Olympics

Diane A. Wade
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North Korea Canceled Meeting with VP Mike Pence at Winter Olympics

According to US officials, VP Mike Pence was due to meet North Korean officials at the Winter Olympics last week, but the North Koreans canceled the meeting at the last moment.

VP Mike Pence was in South Korea for the opening of the PyeongChang Winter Olympics.

A spokesman said the vice-president was scheduled to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un’s sister, Kim Yo-jong, among others.

It would have been the first official interaction between North Korea and the Trump administration.

North Korea has made no comment on the reports.

State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said when the “possibility arose” of a brief meeting with the North Korean delegation, Mike Pence “was ready to take this opportunity to drive home the necessity of North Korea abandoning its illicit ballistic missile and nuclear programs”.

Heather Nauert said in a statement: “At the last minute, DPRK [Democratic People’s Republic of Korea] officials decided not to go forward with the meeting. We regret their failure to seize this opportunity.”

North Korea’s attendance at the Winter Olympics was seen as a major thaw in consistently tense relations on the Korean peninsula.

Mike Pence was criticized by some for not engaging diplomatically with the North Koreans while in South Korea.

He sat feet away from Kim Yo-jong – who is accused of human rights violations – at the Games but did not interact with her, saying: “I didn’t believe it was proper for the United States of America to give her any attention in that forum.”

Image source Twitter

PyeongChang 2018: Kim Jong-un’s Sister, Kim Yo-jong, to Visit South Korea for Olympics

Mike Pence’s chief of staff, Nick Ayers, said North Korea had “dangled a meeting in hopes of the vice president softening his message, which would have ceded the world stage for their propaganda during the Olympics”.

“This administration will stand in the way of Kim’s desire to whitewash their murderous regime with nice photo ops at the Olympics. Perhaps that’s why they walked away from a meeting or perhaps they were never sincere about sitting down,” Nick Ayers said.

On leaving the Games, Mike Pence said the US and its allies remained firmly aligned on North Korea

“There is no daylight between the United States, the Republic of Korea and Japan on the need to continue to isolate North Korea economically and diplomatically until they abandon their nuclear and ballistic missile program.”

However, South Korea’s President Moon Jae-in has said he is considering accepting an invitation to visit Kim Jong-un in North Korea.

4 Benefits Of A Standalone Photocopier For Your Office

Dana R
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4 Benefits Of A Standalone Photocopier For Your Office

Although most enterprises make use of a multifunction copying device, using a standalone photocopier has its distinct advantages. This is the reason businesses prefer having a high-volume copier along with other accessories like scanners, printers and fax machines. Apart from being cost-effective, a stand-alone copier wraps up a colossal-copying task within minutes; a task that would otherwise have you embroiled in a dilemma whether to outsource the copy job or pay overhead for extra time and energy. Let’s discuss some of the benefits of a standalone photocopier for your office:

Fast Processing & Additional Features

A high-quality photocopier from a reputed brand will entail fast processing features including large, clear display panels and wireless capability that enables a firm to execute high volume copying tasks in less time with minimal effort. Mostly, standalone copy devices of today come equipped with a high page per minute or ppm rating compared to a multifunction device that serves as a printer and a photocopier. High-tech copiers that are slightly expensive can feature ppm up to 90 and more. Most copiers come equipped with built-in memory for easy document backup and retrieval for making necessary amendments to office artifacts.

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Cost Efficiency

Large volume photocopiers can be expensive office accessories but the benefits of a standalone device largely outweigh the option of having a multipurpose one, especially when large volume copying and document finishing attributes such as binding, sorting & stapling and printing cost per page are considered. With a full-time copier, the number of pages copied in a specific time period project a more positive trend that point at low copying per page costs and quick execution time. A third-party to whom you’ve outsourced would probably charge you two or three times more for the same job.

Durability & Longevity

Just like buying a MacBook that allows you to do multiple tasks is feasible, getting a multifunctional device may be tempting but consider the long-term usability and copying costs and you will find that a stand-alone copy machine for your office is a more viable option. Top photocopier brands offer durable machines that include software for installing regular updates for longevity and proper maintenance. This helps keep the photocopier up to date and in optimal condition for your daily copying requirements. Use a guide to choosing the best copiers for small business.

Great Functionality

Apart from fast copying and low costs, standalone copiers entail great functional features including the capability for wireless copying without having to connect to a desktop using a physical connector, a comprehensive user menu to assign tasks and manage copying requirements effectively and added features such as printing on different paper sizes, copying for variable paper thicknesses and selection of alignments etc.

How Helping Your Local Community Can Help You

Dana R
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How Helping Your Local Community Can Help You

It is not secret that helping other people is a way of helping yourself. But, how can you create positive change where you live? There are loads of ways you can do this, and it is far easier than you think. It is one thing to donate money to a local charity, but donating your time is a far more valuable thing to give. Getting involved in local organisations that rely on volunteers, and learning about the kind of issues that concern your community is a great place to start. There are so many ways you could become apart of change, and help to make a positive impact where you live. Who does not want to make their community, and the place where they and their friends and family spend time, a better place? Read on to find out ways you can get involved, and how you can go about creating positive change, for both others and you as well.

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Source.

Volunteer

There are volunteering opportunities everywhere you go, and many organisations rely on the participation of volunteers to do what they do best. Giving a bit of time to make sure these organisations can carry on helping people is definitely worth your time. Whatever your concerns, or interests, there are volunteering opportunities to suit you. This could be anything from helping vulnerable people to cleaning up the environment. You could help out in a soup kitchen, or you could help out at AA meetings. You could even volunteer at local arts events, help out at schools, or help groups clean up green places like parks. There are many opportunities for you to incite change and your local community, and helping other people helps yours too. Not only is there the feel-good factor of making a difference, but you are making the place where you live better for yourself, and your family and friend too. Considering what interests you, and thinking about what change you want to see, will give you a good idea of what kind of volunteering opportunity would be right for you.

Learn About Politics

You don’t have to run for president to make change through politics. Simply educating yourself, and becoming aware of the political groups and people in your local area can all help change happen. Start by learning about causes, from the local to the international, like the National Endowment for Democracy, for example. Knowing what issues you feel passionately about, or what issues will affect your community, will help you decide what action to take. This could be anything from voting, writing to local politicians, or even protesting or attending public events. Getting involved in politics is a great way to make a change in your community and a great place to start if you want to have a positive effect on the place where you live.

There are many ways you can incite change, and here are just here a few ways you can get started. Volunteering and learning about politics are great ways to change policies, and help people for the better in your community.

Donald Trump Jr.’s India Business Trip Raises Eyebrows

Diane A. Wade
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Donald Trump Jr.’s India Business Trip Raises Eyebrows

President Donald Trump has been widely criticized after investors in a luxury property development in India are being offered the chance to have “conversation and dinner” with his eldest son, Donald Jr.

Donald Trump Jr. is visiting India this week and will promote the Trump Towers development near Delhi.

Critics say the Trump family is cashing in on the president’s name.

However, Donald Trump Jr. has said he has been building relationships in India for years.

The full-page advertisement, which ran as the front cover of several Indian newspapers over the weekend, featured a picture of Donald Trump Jr. together with text: “Trump is here. Are you invited?” and “Trump has arrived. Have you?”

The 47-storey towers in Gurgaon, close to New Delhi, are being developed by the Trump Organization and local partners – with some apartments selling for more than $1 million.

The Trump Organization, formerly headed up by President Donald Trump, is an umbrella company for hundreds of investments in businesses including real estate. Donald Trump Jr. is now its executive director.

Image source Wikimedia

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India is the Trump Organization’s biggest property market outside the US, and in 2016 the Trump family earned up to $3 million in royalties from ventures in India, according to a financial disclosure report.

The Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) – a watchdog group – added the Indian promotion to a list of instances it believes show the Trump name being used for commercial gain.

In an interview last week, cited by The Guardian, Donald Trump Jr. said he had spent nearly a decade “cultivating relationships in India” and that the company was “now seeing the response of that effort”.

The president’s son said his itinerary was designed to steer clear of politics.

However, Donald Trump Jr. is listed as a keynote speaker at a global business conference, which will be attended by Indian politicians, including PM Narendra Modi and some of India’s business elite.

President Donald Trump handed over control of his business empire to Donald Jr. and Eric Trump before his inauguration last year.

However, the director of the US Office of Government Ethics said at the time that this did not go far enough to ensure there would be no conflict of interest between his politics and personal business.

Since taking office, critics have claimed President Trump is continuing to profit from his family’s business interests.

They have also accused the Trump family of playing up its connections with the White House in order to influence business deals.

In May 2017, the company owned by the family of Jared Kushner, Donald Trump’s son-in-law, pulled out of a real estate presentation in China.

Kushner Companies had been scheduled to pitch opportunities to real estate investors in China, but Jared Kushner’s sister was widely criticized for using his name in a pitch.

In November 2017, President Trump’s daughter, Ivanka, was criticized for speaking at a global entrepreneurs summit in Hyderabad, with some saying the summit had become more about Ivanka Trump and her namesake brand than the wider issue.

Parkland High School Shooting: FBI Criticized after Failing to Act on A Tip on Suspect Nikolas Cruz

Nancy Clayson
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Parkland High School Shooting: FBI Criticized after Failing to Act on A Tip on Suspect Nikolas Cruz

The FBI is under pressure after failing to act on a tip that Florida school shooting suspect Nikolas Cruz might carry out an attack.

Florida Governor Rick Scott said the FBI’s director must resign, while Attorney General Jeff Sessions ordered a review, lamenting FBI “failures”.

Some of those close to the 17 victims of February 14 shooting also voiced dismay at the FBI’s actions.

On February 16, President Donald Trump met survivors of the attack in Parkland.

President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump visited a hospital and later the local sheriff’s office, thanking them for their response to the tragedy.

“What a great job you’ve done,” the president told law enforcement officials, adding: “I hope you get credit for it because believe me, you deserve it.”

Suspect Nikolas Cruz, 19, has confessed to carrying out February14 attack at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland and has been charged with 17 counts of murder.

It was the deadliest school shooting since 2012 and has re-ignited debates about gun control, with many students from the school weighing in.

It comes after the FBI admitted it did not properly follow up on a warning about Nikolas Cruz.

Image source Fox13

Parkland Shooting: At Least 17 Killed and Many Injured in Florida High School Attack

On January 5, a person close to the suspect contacted the FBI tipline to provide “information about Nikolas Cruz’s gun ownership, desire to kill people, erratic behavior, and disturbing social media posts, as well as the potential of him conducting a school shooting”, an FBI statement said.

The FBI said that information should have been assessed as a potential threat to life and passed on to the Miami field office but that “we have determined these protocols were not followed”.

FBI Director Christopher Wray said the bureau was “still investigating the facts” and was committed to “getting to the bottom of what happened”.

He added: “We have spoken with victims and families, and deeply regret the additional pain this causes all those affected by this horrific tragedy.”

The January 5 tip was not the only information the FBI received about Nikolas Cruz.

In September, a Mississippi man reported to the law enforcement agency a disturbing comment left on a YouTube video by a user called “nikolas cruz” which said: “I’m going to be a professional school shooter.”

Ben Bennight said he spoke to FBI representatives for about 20 minutes and that they contacted him again following the Parkland shooting.

On February 15, the FBI said they had conducted “checks” at the time, but were unable to identify the person behind the comment.

Questions are also being asked about how local police responded to concern about Nikolas Cruz.

Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel said his office had received 20 “calls for service” about him.

Each one would be scrutinized, he said, without going into detail about the nature of the calls.

Governor Rick Scott said in a statement that “the FBI’s failure to take action against this killer is unacceptable”.

He said that an apology would never give families “the answers they desperately need” and said that Christopher Wray had to resign.

Meanwhile, Attorney General Jeff Sessions said that the FBI’s “failures” had led to “tragic consequences”, and announced a review at the justice department and FBI into how “indications of potential violence” are responded to.

Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux Split after Two Years of Marriage

Lisa.Felice
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Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux Split after Two Years of Marriage

Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux have announced their separation after two years of marriage.

The Hollywood couple, who reportedly met on the set of comedy film Wanderlust, said the mutual decision was “lovingly made” at the end of last year.

Jennifer Aniston, 49, and Justin Theroux, 46, gave no reason for the split and said they intended to continue their “cherished friendship”.

They were married in a secret ceremony in Los Angeles in August 2015.

Image source Wikimedia

Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux Get Married in Secret LA Ceremony

Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux had been together for four years before the wedding, which took place at their Bel Air mansion.

In a joint statement, the couple said they intended to remain friends: “We are two best friends who have decided to part ways as a couple, but look forward to continuing our cherished friendship.

“Normally we would do this privately, but given that the gossip industry cannot resist an opportunity to speculate and invent, we wanted to convey the truth directly.”

“Above all, we are determined to maintain the deep respect and love that we have for one another,” the statement added.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evO2b-uCSJQ

How To Protect Yourself From Property Liability

Dana R
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0
How To Protect Yourself From Property Liability

Like it or not, we live in a litigious world. Yes accidents happen, but sometimes they are not entirely blameless, and when those situations occur on someone else’s property, the average citizen will begin searching for a premises liability lawyer. No one wants to be on the receiving end of a lawsuit, so below are a few handy tips so that you can make sure that you can make it extremely unlikely that you would find yourself in court attempting to prove that the blame did not fall with you.

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Start with the obvious

Try to secure and ‘accident-proof’ any obvious hazards on your property. The best way to go about this is to ask if the area would be safe for an unsupervised toddler. No sharp objects, sudden drops, or uneven ground. Make sure that all walkways are clear of debris or spillages and that they are adequately lit. Ensure that all stairs have a handrail, even if there are only two or three stairs, and make sure that the flooring is not slippery, even when wet. Warning signs are a good addition also. Any ditches or areas that you deem particularly hazardous should be separated using a fence so that members of the public cannot stray into danger through lack of due care. If young children frequent the area, moving the door handles out of reach, towards the top portion of the door, will stop youngsters from wandering where they shouldn’t be.

Stay vigilant

Once you have protected yourself and others from the ‘permanent dangers’ at your property, you need to keep an eye out for new situations which could prove dangerous. Any debris or spillages could be a tripping or slipping hazard. In cold weather, you should take the time to grit the walkways in and out of your property to ensure that nobody falls prey to unseen ice patches. Again, look for hazards that might catch out an unsupervised toddler. Do not assume that something will be fine, protect yourself by being proactive.

Add an insurance policy or two

Not insurance in the traditional sense (although a liability insurance policy could never go amiss),  but in the sense of going further to protect yourself. Erecting a fence to keep unwanted pedestrians out can do wonders to prevent you from being liable for someone being where they shouldn’t be. You could also install CCTV cameras to help provide evidence should any incident occur. Many cases boil down to one person’s word against another’s, but with video footage, you can prove beyond all doubt the true nature of events.

Know who you are liable for

If someone is invited onto your property, you are liable for their safety, and so you should make sure that you do everything you can to reduce their risk of coming to harm. However, you are not liable for anyone who is on your property without your permission,  whether you know them or not. This means that you cannot be sued by your ex who has taken to hiding in your bushes, or a burglar who trips over your furniture in the night. The only exception to this rule is children. You are liable for any local children who are playing on your property, so it makes sense to ensure that no one can accidentally stray onto your land.

Have many fail-safes

This is especially true if you have something like an outdoor swimming pool. You should not only cover the pool are over when not in use, but you should also ensure that there is a fence surrounding the pool that is of a sufficient height to stop children easily being able to climb into the pool area. You should also make sure that the area is securely locked and cannot be easily opened by children or unauthorised individuals. If you are having any construction work done on the property, you should have plenty of barriers up to stop anyone wandering into a dangerous area, but you should also have plenty of signs up to warn of the potential dangers to those who wander into places that they should not be.

There you have it, a few simple ways to help you avoid being liable for personal injuries that may occur on your property. Hopefully, these tips have also highlighted the importance of protecting yourself from all eventualities. It is never a nice thing to plan for the worst-case scenario, but by doing so, you are protecting yourself from a huge financial strain. It is better to be over-prepared and not need you fail-safes than it is to under-prepare and wish you had done more.

The Cost of Caring: Elderly Relatives Moving Into Your Home

Dana R
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No one really likes to dwell on getting older, but the reality is it’s a future that we all face. Shifting demographic changes, with people living well past retirement and those in middle-age sandwiched between supporting adult children and aging parents, is bringing the issue into sharper focus than ever. So when it comes time to make a decision about the care of your older relatives, how do you go about finding the right option for you and the ones you love?

While many care homes for seniors provide a supportive environment, your elders may not be keen on some aspects of this arrangement and with recent abuse cases claiming the headlines, you could have found yourself needing a firm of Oklahoma City nursing home abuse attorneys.

So you may be considering taking your elder relative into your own home as an alternative. But what do you need to know?

The Cost of Caring

It may not be what you want to think of, but the costs of caring must be addressed head on, otherwise bottled up tensions about money can surface later and more dramatically. Caring for an older relative involves expense – your home may need modifications, from minor adaptations to significant building work- to make it suitable for them. On top of this, there are added costs to cover with food bills, extra heating costs and any specialist equipment that is needed. In order for any arrangement to work, an honest conversation is needed about finance. Getting independent financial advice for your relative may be key to help them get their affairs in order and work out what they can contribute to the household. Involve them in these discussions and never dictate terms – a new kind of dynamic is needed, but too many people fall into a groove of parent-child communication.

Caring and Your Career

If your relative needs a lot of support and you are working yourself, it’s important to consider the impact on your job. Caring duties may mean that you are tired and find it hard to focus, and your work performance may suffer. It may be that you need to take unexpected leave from a job as well, and while some employers build a certain amount of family leave into a contract, others can be significantly less understanding. Taking extra time off also means that you may find yourself passed over for bigger projects and opportunities for advancement. Your own retirement prospects may also suffer if you end up cutting down on your hours or even giving up work altogether, as you will lose out on a period of time when you should be saving intensely for your retirement. And should you choose to leave the workforce, you may find it next to impossible to return at the same level after an extended period of absence, when your skills will have become outdated and you are older. Consider whether you can afford some in-Home support care. This can allow you both to remain a little independent and free up more of your own time from caring duties. This option can be expansive so consider how you will afford the support, and weigh it up against the costs that may result if you don’t go down that route.

5 Things You (Probably) Didn’t Know You Could Do On Your Macbook

Dana R
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5 Things You (Probably) Didn’t Know You Could Do On Your Macbook

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Before we get into the crux of this article, please know that this writer doesn’t want to get into that age-old PC vs Mac debate that has raged since dawn began… well, since the early days of Steve Jobs, at least. While the features mentioned use Mac-specific functions, there will be a similar workaround for Windows users as well. So, with that disclaimer over and done with…phew… here are some of the things you probably didn’t know you could do on your Mac.

  1. Let your MacBook read to you

Can’t be bothered reading through pages of text? That’s fine; you can sit back and use your Mac as an audio book. Highlight the text you want your MacBook to read to you, select Edit, and go to the speech options. You can change the narrator’s voice, from calming to comical, and then let the story/article/work doc begin.

  1. Extract music from video sources

While you can download and stream music easily on any number of sites,  you may want to extract sections of music from video sources. This is particularly useful if you can’t find the track anywhere else, or you want to use stretches of music or sound effects for your own video creations. There is a great article here on how to convert video to audio on Mac, though you do need to be careful of copyright issues,

  1. Hide Facebook at work

Facebook is the most popular social networking site in the world, and it is constantly being updated with useful (and not so useful) features, such as it’s latest video streaming service. Still, you don’t want to be caught using Facebook at work, unless you are using it for marketing purposes. So, if your boss or nosey colleague wanders by, you can quickly press H and the command button, and the page will be removed from your screen. Note: works with any other web page you were having a sneaky peek at!

  1. Create customizable shortcuts

Are you constantly typing the same words or phrases? This can be annoying, especially if those words are long and complicated. Still, you can save time with this nifty trick. Go to Systems Settings, click on Language and Region, head to Keyboard Settings and then choose text. You can then customize the common phrases you use, with a shorter number of keystrokes. You will never have to waste time or correct awkward spelling mistakes again!

  1. Restrict your child’s access

Handing over your Mac to your child is a risky business anyway. You don’t know what sites he/she may be visiting, and if you have saved your credit card details, you never know what your child will be buying on your behalf. Thankfully, you can restrict what your child can do on your computer. For starters, password your account and then set up an account for them using your administrative tools. Go to Systems Preferences, head to Parental Controls, and limit what websites or apps your child can use. Then, if bedtime is an issue, you can also set the time that the computer logs off for the evening. Result!

Have you picked up any tips or tricks for your Macbook?*  Be sure to let us know in the comments section below.

* Or Windows – we don’t want to be biased!

 

Parkland Shooting: At Least 17 Killed and Many Injured in Florida High School Attack

Nancy Clayson
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Parkland Shooting: At Least 17 Killed and Many Injured in Florida High School Attack

At least 17 people are dead after a 19-year-old man opened fire at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in the small city of Parkland, around 45 miles north of Miami, police have said.

Nikolas Cruz, a former student at the school who had been expelled, has been identified as suspect.

As the attack unfolded students were forced to hide as police swooped in on the building.

It is the deadliest school shooting since 26 people were killed at Connecticut school Sandy Hook in 2012.

It is the sixth school shooting incident in 2018 that has either wounded or killed students

Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel told reporters Nikolas Cruz killed three people outside the school, before entering the building and killing another 12.

Two people later died after being taken to hospital.

According to health officials, three people remain in a critical condition and three others are in stable condition.

The victims are still being identified. Sheriff Scott Israel said a football coach was among the dead but no names have been released.

Image source Fox13

Sandy Hook School shooting: at least 27 people killed in a Connecticut primary school shooting attack

San Bernardino Shooting: Three Killed at North Park Elementary School

On February 14, the local public school district tweeted that “students and staff heard what sounded like gunfire” just before the end of the day at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.

The attack began at 14:30 local time.

Witnesses said that the suspect set off a fire alarm before the violence erupted.

Police and SWAT team members swarmed the campus and began clearing students from the school in Parkland, about an hour north of Miami, as parents and ambulances converged on the scene.

Nikolas Cruz, who had been expelled for “disciplinary reasons”, was taken into custody without incident in the nearby town of Coral Springs about an hour after he left the high school, according to police.

Sheriff Scott Israel said: “We have already begun to dissect his websites and things on social media that he was on and some of the things… are very, very disturbing.”

“Just a horrible day for us,” said Robert Runcie, the superintendent of the county’s school district.

The school has nearly 3,000 students. Classes are cancelled for the rest of this week.

Many students said they thought it was a drill because a fire alarm practice had taken place shortly before the shooting.

Since 2013, there have been 291 reported school shootings in America, which averages out to about one per week.

This is the worst shooting since 2012, when gunman Adam Lanza attacked Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. He shot dead 20 young children and six adults before killing himself.

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