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How To Become A Success

Dana R
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How To Become A Success

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Everyone wants to be a success in their lives. Whether it be taking on the world of business, finding ourselves a family to love or becoming that person we’ve always wanted to be.

Success doesn’t come easy, it takes a huge amount of hard work and dedication. There are people all over the world who spend every minute of every day striving for what they believe in and getting what they want out of life, so why can’t you?

If you have no idea where to start, here are some ways to become successful this year…

  1. Focus on commitment

If you look at some of the most successful people in the world such as Saʿud ibn Saqr al-Qasimi, Bill Gates and Richard Branson… they all have one thing in common: they are totally committed to what they believe in. Are you willing to sacrifice your time and resources to get what you want out of life? It’s not enough to be motivated to do things, you need to show that you are totally committed to the cause.

  1. Seek knowledge

The way that many successful people stay focused and willing to work is by always learning more about their subject. There is always more that you can learn about in life, and it is the willingness to explore and experiment in the field which will keep you afloat and help you truly immerse yourself into this world.  You need to stay in the mentality that the discovery is just as fun as getting the results. If you keep this frame of mind you will be much more likely to succeed.

  1. Make it fun

Just because you might be working incredibly hard to get what you want doesn’t mean it can’t be fun along the way. It is your life and your decisions, make sure that you make the most of it and have a little fun with everything as you go. You will find that your motivation will stay much higher if you have some fun with your work.

  1. Get rid of negative thoughts

It can be incredibly difficult to shake those nagging doubts which creep up when you are trying to work towards your dream. Thoughts which compromise the way we think can be dangerous and will be able to affect the way we feel and our motivation to carry on with work. Make sure to put these thoughts on the back burner and focus on everything which is positive about what you are doing right now.

  1. Use your imagination

Once you have rid all of those negative thoughts from your mind, you will want to get your imagination involved in everything. Set yourself a challenge to think of everything in a positive way for a few days. It can be difficult to put a positive spin on a difficult boss or a late bus, but if you use your imagination to think of what that person taught you and the fresh air to chain by being outside, you will start to feel much better even if the situation hasn’t changed! This can be what sets you apart from everyone else because you learn the ability to put a positive spin on situations and make the most out of what you have. This will in turn help you keep that motivation to get what you want in life.

  1. Be hard on yourself

You will probably notice that most of the articles out their about life tell yo tos top being so hard on yourself, however that might be exactly the kick up the butt you need to take action. In order to motivate yourself to do better in life you need to start acting hard on yourself. Think about all of the times you have throughout about working out or cooking a healthy meal and instead have stayed at home and eaten a takeaway. This is the time you need to look at yourself and take some action. Force yourself to buy a piece of clothing which is a tiny bit too small. Try it on every single day as a reminder of your goals and you will find that you reach it much more easily. The trick is to blackmail yourself in a way so that you will do what you need to do in order so stay successful.

  1. Get rid of distractions

When you sit down to work on your project or learn something new, put the phone away and on silent. The last thing you want is to be distracted by the thought of answering text messages or checking your Facebook. Think about how much time scrolling through your phone can take up, when you could have been working on what you want and honing your skills. Make sure though that you do leave yourself enough time to relax and reset in the evening before you go to bed.

  1. Don’t rely on others

Although it’s amazing to have your partner, your family and your friends there to support you during achieving your goals, you cannot rely on them to make you do it. Don’t let your partner be the one who has to remind you to workout or write another page of your book, you need to be your own motivation.

  1. Plan

It is always important to plan out everything in our lives and take the time to give ourselves reminders. Try to always be three steps forward from where you are, and plan for when you will be spending time on your project. It is incredibly important to plan out and write ourselves a weekly calendar to schedule in the time to complete these tasks within it. It could even be a great idea for you to start a bullet journal to keep yourself on track. It I’ll allow you to set yourself weekly goals and also daily tasks to complete to keep you motivated and so that you always know what you need to be doing on any given day.

  1. Protect yourself from burnout

It is very easy to be motivated for a couple of weeks and feel as if you have nailed this habit, and then end up burning out and quitting altogether. It is a sad fact that this often happens to us, and is often the downfall of many New Year’s resolutions. If you don’t protect yourself from burning out you will never be able to succeed and all of your goals will end up being forgotten.

You need to recognise when it is time to step back and take a rest from your work. Resting is almost as important and completing the task itself because your body needs that time to compute all of the information you have fed it as well as reset and refresh for the next day. If we don’t give our mind and body the time to rest, it doesn’t matter how motivated we are. Our body and mind will eventually both shut down due to fatigued and you will not be able to do anything at all.

Make sure that you always work to the best of your ability and make the time you have to work on it productive. There’s no point booking out an hour in your day and then just sitting there staring at your yoga mat or your computer. Plan out what needs to be done and then once you have completed what you wanted to do, shut the computer down and have a rest.

Arrested For Feeding The Homeless. How Can This Be A Crime?

Dana R
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Arrested For Feeding The Homeless. How Can This Be A Crime?

The ever growing problem of homelessness in America is at an all time high, with record breaking figures staring at us right in the face. There is little action being done to help the state of our streets as we walk by thousands of lonely, cold and poor people who are forced to reside on our roads. Each evening, it has been quoted by the National Alliance to End Homelessness that over five hundred thousand people are forced to sleep outside or seek out an alternative overnight arrangement, whether that is an emergency support shelter or a transitional housing unit. This is no way for anybody to live and it is safe to say that homeless people are being treated poorly in this day and age.

The world is developing at an astounding rate and even with billions of dollars being shelled out on new technologies and buildings there still doesn’t seem to be enough money in the budget to help out those who are struggling each and every day. The problem is quite simple appalling and America is doing little or nothing to address the escalating disaster. With the cost of living increasing each and every second it is becoming more and more difficult for people to keep up with rental payments. No matter how hard people are attempting to make ends meet, they are simply being forced to spend their time on the streets as nobody is around to listen to them.

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Over the years there have been inhumane laws passed, which have made it illegal to sleep in public places, live in vehicles and share food. The hard work from teams at Habitathm.ca are trying to create homes for those who need it, but no matter how hard these companies try and do good for the country, the laws are stopping every day people from helping those in need on the streets. Ending the the bout of homelessness is a long-term and complex problem which can only become better over time. More money and effort needs to go into financing these groups who are helping to build safe shelters and homes for people.

In the colder states it is becoming increasingly disturbing at the number of health issues that homeless people are facing, due to adverse weather conditions. Some states are even issuing fines and carrying out arrests for those who are feeding the homeless without permission. These places include Daytona Beach, Atlanta and Houston. But what sort of world are we living in where we can’t offer kind gestures and help those who are suffering? Activists are infuriated that they are no longer allowed by law to help the local people they come across on the streets every day. Just a few days ago a group of twelve people called ‘Break The Ban’ were arrested in broad daylight for feeding their city’s homeless population.

Ultimately, these groups will keep fighting for the cause they believe in and it will be up to the states whether they become more lenient with their laws and allow them to carry out dutiful gestures to those who are most in need.

What To Do After a Car Accident

Dana R
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What To Do After a Car Accident

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Very few people know what to do after surviving a car accident. Doing the right thing after an accident can mean the difference between having a straightforward claim or having one that will drag on for months. You need to know what the insurance provider expects from you if you want to do the right thing. One thing you should NOT do, according to Andy Ellis, an experienced car accident attorney in Los Angeles, is accept money from the insurance company before you’ve spoken to a lawyer.

Here are some of the things that you should do after being involved in a car accident:

Assess the Damage

You need to perform a quick assessment of the accident scene to see the damage your car has sustained. Even if the impact happened at low speed, you should not assume that the damage is minimal. Make sure that you look for dents, leaks, and cracks that were not there before the accident.

If there is little damage and you see no need to involve lawyers, you should come to an agreement with the other party and settle the issue. However, if you have sustained some injuries that need medical attention, you might have to involve attorneys such as Buffalo personal injury lawyers. Make sure that you seek treatment immediately even if you think that the injury is minor.

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Call the Police

If you cannot resolve the issue, you should call the police. The officer will help you to assess the damage and tell you who is at fault. However, for the police officer to give an accurate account of what happened, you should not move the vehicles. Moreover, you need to contact your insurance agent for advice on what to do.

If you have a camera or a good camera phone, you should take pictures of the scene and make sure that you capture the damage. Before deciding to leave the cars alone, you should scan the area to ensure that it is safe to wait there. If you are hindering traffic, you might have to move the cars to the side of the road – make sure that you take plenty of pictures before moving them.

Report the Accident to Your Insurer

Once you have all the necessary information from the scene, you should formally alert your car insurance provider. Depending on their assessment, you will be told whether you can drive to the nearest authorized garage or call a tow truck to remove your car from the scene of the accident. Your insurance provider will send an insurance claim adjuster to evaluate the value of damage to your vehicle.

Keep Track of Your Treatment

You should write down the names of any doctor who treats your injuries after the accident. You also have to keep track of the medication that you take and the treatments you receive. Moreover, you also need to request copies of medical bills and reports because they will come in handy when proving your expenses later.

Although documenting treatments is easy, it will be much harder to prove your pain and suffering. You need to record how the injuries have affected your daily life: family life and missed workdays.

Filing a Claim

You need to file a motor insurance claim if you want to get compensation for damages. Once you fill in the form, you should attach the necessary documents before sending it back: copy of your driver’s license and the police report. Hiring an attorney is necessary because you might not know what to do at this point, but an attorney does.

An accident attorney can help you get the maximum settlement. If you do not have money to hire a lawyer, do not worry because most accident lawyers work on contingency – you pay them if you win the case.

Creating an Effective Human Resource Development Plan

Dana R
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Creating an Effective Human Resource Development Plan

Human resource departments play a critical role in helping organizations achieve their core business goals, as well as creating efficiency in all aspects of business operations. The career in itself is a rewarding, albeit daunting task. Being able to undergo plenty of roles require extensive knowledge on a variety of fields. If you’re thinking of getting into the profession, you can get ahead with a human resources mba and you’ll surely be up for the tasks in demand. Just as it’s crucial to have a clear strategic vision and business plan, organizations also need an effective human resource development plan to get everyone ready to execute their key business strategies and achieve their goals.

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Every organization’s HR department plays a key role in preparing current staff and anticipating human resource needs and requirements as they arise. What are the proven steps inf creating an effective human resource development plan?

Assess the Entire Workforce

When it comes to strategic human resource planning, organizations must first identify their current employees’ skills, abilities and level of knowledge. A good understanding of their individual strengths, education levels, professional certifications, additional training and capabilities will form the basis of your HR development plan. Ask yourself: Do they have talents that could benefit your business?

It’s advisable to have an interactive system that helps you track employee roles, performance, training and career progress. According to Accuchex, a workforce management solutions provider, effective human resource management within an organization depends on the ability to focus on systems and policies like California labor laws breaks, which go a long way in helping organizations improve and develop their workforce.

Provide Skill-Based Training

There is a huge difference between having qualified employees and having a winning team that delivers. How can you develop employees to be problem solvers, industry experts, innovative thinkers and excellent communicators? Skill-based training is the key to achieving a productive workforce. You’ll need to evaluate their abilities and level of experience and then create a simple action plan based on progressive training to help them achieve their career objectives.

For instance, you could enroll your accounting department on training programs like financial policy and advisory services. The importance of training and development cannot be overstated; whether you opt for on-the-job training conducted by qualified supervisors or highly specialized training, it’s important to understand that your organization’s success in the marketplace is dependent on your employees’ abilities to function efficiently and effectively.

Draft a Succession Plan for Your Organization

Change is inevitable in any HR development plan. To avoid any disruptions in business operations, it’s important to create a clear succession plan in your different organizational departments. Whether there’s a shift in top executive management or you’re reorganizing departments, it’s important to be prepared.

To do so, identify all critical roles in your organization and current employees with qualified skills needed to immediately fill up those positions in case an employee leaves. Depending on your business culture, a succession plan can be developed in consultation with employees directly or behind the scenes. Such plans should also be backed by a strong recruitment process.

Perform a Gap Analysis

Performing a gap analysis helps your organization identify all the resources available to your business and those that will be needed in the future, so you can make improvements. The analysis should focus on your human resource practices and infrastructure to determine areas where your business is falling short.

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The results of a gap analysis will help your organization introduce new business practices like job evaluations, performance reviews, departmental evaluations, development programs and other tasks to help you achieve better performance. A gap analysis should regularly be conducted, so you can reassess your strategy to make changes when necessary.

Be Ready for the Future

As your organization grows, so will your HR and staffing needs. Ask yourself: is your workforce productive enough? Do you need more employees? Do they have the skills needed to remain competitive and help you achieve your goals? The answers to these questions lie in learning how to promote and recruit from within. As you think of what new roles your business needs and who can fill them, keep in mind that human resource development is an ongoing process.

Government ShutDown: Federal Workers Unable to Report for Work

Diane A. Wade
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Government ShutDown: Federal Workers Unable to Report for Work

The majority of federal workers will be unable to report for work on January 22, as the Senate struggles to end a government shut-down.

Some will not be paid until the stalemate is resolved.

On January 21, a rare Sunday session of the Senate yielded no agreement between Democrats and Republicans, with immigration one of the main sticking points.

Essential services will still run but famous sites such as the Statue of Liberty have already been affected.

The monument was closed on January 21, but New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said he would dip into state funds to pay the daily employment bill and reopen the popular tourist site.

It missed a deadline. At midnight on January 19, lawmakers failed to agree on a spending bill. The bill was not a plan for funding for the whole of 2018, but would have kept things running until the middle of next month.

Image source Wikimedia

Government Shutdown: Senate Fails to Pass New Budget

Democrats refused to back a temporary deal until their concerns on immigration reform were dealt with.

Efforts to reach a compromise ahead of the working week failed on January 21.

A vote to end the shutdown was postponed until midday on January 22, meaning many federal government offices will not open and the shutdown enters its third day.

Under Senate rules, the bill needs 60 votes in the 100-member chamber.

The Republicans currently have 51 senators, so they need some Democratic support to pass a budget.

Democrats want President Donald Trump to negotiate over immigration as part of a budget deal, but Republicans say no agreement is possible while federal government services are closed.

Republicans want funding for border security – including a proposed border wall with Mexico – and immigration reforms, as well as increased military spending.

On January 20, President Trump said the “nuclear option” of a simple majority vote was necessary to end the impasse.

It means no pay for those federal employees who are “furloughed” – on unpaid leave – even though their workplaces are not open.

Most staff in the departments of housing, environment, education and commerce will be staying at home on January 22. Half of workers in the treasury, health, defense and transportation departments will also not be going to work.

Visa and passport processing could be delayed.

However, essential services that protect “life or human property” will continue, including national security, postal services, air traffic control, some medical services, disaster assistance, prisons, taxation and electricity generation.

Meanwhile, the Trump administration said it planned to keep national parks open – their closure in the 2013 shutdown provoked an angry public reaction.

The shutdown began on the first anniversary of President Trump’s inauguration. His trip to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, has also been called into question.

The last government shutdown was in 2013, and lasted for 16 days.

It cost the government $2 billion in lost productivity and led to “significant negative effects on the economy”, the OMB said at the time.

This is the first time a government shutdown has happened while one party, the Republicans, controls both Congress and the White House.

January 19 vote fell 50-49, far short of the 60 needed to advance the bill. This is due to a number of key disagreements.

Democrats have demanded protection from deportation of more than 700,000 undocumented immigrants who entered the United States as children.

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Ed Sheeran Announces Engagement to Cherry Seaborn

Lisa.Felice
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Ed Sheeran Announces Engagement to Cherry Seaborn

Ed Sheeran has announced he and his girlfriend Cherry Seaborn are now engagged.

The singer posted their picture on Instagram, saying: “Got myself a fiancé just before new year. We are very happy and in love, and our cats are chuffed as well xx.”

Ed Sheeran and Cherry Seaborn met in school although they only got together in 2015, spending most of 2016 travelling the world during his year off from music.

Cherry Seaborn is a hockey star and helped England U21’s win the bronze medal at the 2012 European Championships.

Image source Flickr

Ed Sheeran Quits Twitter Following Abusive Comments

In 2017, Ed Sheeran said that he’d finally had the chance to fall in love after taking a break from music.

He was forced to cancel some of his tour dates at the end of last year after a bike accident.

According to Official Charts data, Ed Sheeran’s single Shape of You was 2017’s biggest selling single.

Ed Sheeran is nominated at next month’s Brit awards for album of the year, British single, British video and British male.

Government Shutdown: Senate Fails to Pass New Budget

Clyde K. Valle
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Government Shutdown: Senate Fails to Pass New Budget

The US Senate has failed to pass the new budget and prevent the shutdown of many federal services.

A bill to fund the federal government for the coming weeks did not receive the required 60 votes by the deadline of midnight on January 19.

President Donald Trump accused the Democrats of putting politics above the interests of the American people.

The Democrats blame him for rejecting bipartisan compromise proposals.

Negotiations in both houses of Congress continued on January 20, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell said the chamber would be back in session on the next day to try to end the impasse.

The White House budget chief has expressed optimism that a resolution will be found before January 22.

Image source Wikipedia

US government shutdown cost taxpayers more than $2.5 billion

Monica Lewinsky and 1995 government shutdown

If not, hundreds of thousands of federal workers face the prospect of no work and shuttered offices at the start of the working week.

The last government shutdown was in 2013, and lasted for 16 days.

This is the first time a government shutdown has happened while one party, the Republicans, controls both Congress and the White House.

The January 19 vote was 50-49, falling far short of the 60 needed to advance the bill. With a 51-seat majority in the Senate, the Republicans did not have enough seats to pass the bill without some support from the Democrats.

They want funding for border security – including the border wall – and immigration reforms, as well as increased military spending.

The Democrats have demanded protection from deportation of more than 700,000 undocumented immigrants who entered the United States as children.

The Republicans added a sweetener in the form of a six-year extension to a health insurance program for children in lower-income families. However, Democrats want this program extended permanently.

President Trump accused the Democrats of being “far more concerned with illegal immigrants than they are with our great military or safety at our dangerous southern border”.

However, the leading Senate Democrat, Chuck Schumer, blamed the president, saying President Trump was under pressure from “hard-right forces within the administration”.

White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders warned: “The president will not negotiate on immigration reform until Democrats stop playing games and reopen the government.”

The US budget must be approved by October 1 – the start of the federal financial year.

However, Congress has often failed to meet this deadline and negotiations continue well into the new year, with the previous year’s funding to federal agencies extended on a temporary basis.

Because Congress failed to agree an extension that would have maintained government funding through to February 16, it means many federal agencies effectively closed for business as of 00:01 on January 20.

Most staff in the departments of housing, environment, education and commerce will be staying at home on January 22. Half of workers in the treasury, health, defense and transportation departments will also not be going to work.

Handling A Traffic Ticket In Alberta

Dana R
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Handling A Traffic Ticket In Alberta

If you are used to driving a lot in order to get to and from work, chances are you are familiar with the automated traffic traps that you can find in cities like Calgary.  They aren’t everywhere, but they are in enough places so that it is possible for you not to notice that you have even committed a driving infraction until you receive a ticket in the mail that says you did.

 

You then may find out that what the ticket alleges doesn’t sound like any circumstances that occurred at all.  Fortunately, there are options available for people that would like to challenge the tickets that they receive in Alberta.  Here are some good reasons to not only challenge the ticket but use a partner that goes to court on your behalf:

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There is a discount built into the ticket payment process:

Cities like Calgary are quite cosmopolitan.  The last thing they want to become known as is the place where there are no chances for someone who may have been not guilty of something that they were accused of.  They therefore have a system that allows surrogate companies to show up in court on your behalf and argue your case for you when you get something like a Calgary speeding ticket.  They may be successful, They may be unsuccessful- but the important thing to remember is that a local court rule states that they will be compensated for their efforts through a discount in the ticket.  In other words, regardless of whether or not they are able to make your ticket penalty smaller, you won’t pay any more than the actual levied fine in most cases.

They have a professional relationship with the court:

One driver was on their way to work and had a police officer walk across the street in the crosswalk.  They got onto the sidewalk on the other side and then as the driver started forward, the undercover officer swiveled around to face them and pointed at their car.  They were pulled over and given a large ticket for ignoring pedestrians despite the fact that no one was in the crosswalk.  The officer ended up saying that their idea was to walk to one side of the street, gain the sidewalk, and then swivel around and walk back the other way.  Because their intent was to return to the street, they were a potential pedestrian again.  The person that was ticketed decided to punt and give the right of appeal over to a ticket company that worked with the court.  They managed to shrink the ticket considerably because they knew the court well and were not likely to be antagonistic like the driver that was ticketed might have been.

So if you get a ticket in Alberta and would like to fight the outcome but do not have the time to go all the way into court to do so, consider using a traffic ticket agency that can lower your fine and the number of demerits that you have accrued.

Tom Petty Cause of Death Ruled as Accidental Overdose of Painkillers

Sonia Pantiss
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Tom Petty Cause of Death Ruled as Accidental Overdose of Painkillers

Tom Petty died of an accidental overdose after taking various painkillers, his family has announced in a statement.

The musician “suffered from many serious ailments…most significantly a fractured hip”, the statement said.

Tom Petty’s family members say they believe he was overusing prescription pain medication when he died in October at the age of 66.

The musician found fame as the lead singer of Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers, with hits like American Girl and Breakdown.

Tom Petty was also a co-founder of the Traveling Wilburys group in the late 1980s, recording albums with Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, Jeff Lynne and George Harrison.

The singer was found unconscious, not breathing and in full cardiac arrest at his Malibu home on October 2.

Image source Wikimedia

Tom Petty Dies in California Aged 66

Tom Petty was taken to hospital, but could not be revived and died later that evening.

His family met with a medical examiner on January 19 and updated his fans on Facebook.

The statement said: “On the day he died he was informed his hip had graduated to a full on break and it is our feeling that the pain was simply unbearable and was the cause for his over use of medication.

“We knew before the report was shared with us that he was prescribed various pain medications for a multitude of issues including Fentanyl patches and we feel confident that this was, as the coroner found, an unfortunate accident.”

The family added that Tom Petty’s death “may spark a further discussion on the opioid crisis and we feel that is a necessary and healthy discussion”.

The Los Angeles coroner’s office attributed Tom Petty’s death to “multisystem organ failure” due to a “mixed toxicity” of seven medications. They are fentanyl, oxycodone, emazepam, alprazolam, citalopram, acetyl fentanyl, and despropionyl fentanyl.

Years of over-prescription of opioid painkillers in the United States has created a nationwide addiction crisis, with patients turning to heroin and other street drugs when their prescriptions stop.

In 2016, opioid-related overdoses increased by 28%, killing 42,249 people.

Sports Most Valuable Teams

Dana R
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Sports Most Valuable Teams

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To become one of the most valuable sports franchises these days you really need to be pulling in some big numbers. To put it o you in numbers, this year’s figures were up 18% on last years. 18% in one year. And that’s just the cutoff to make it onto the list of the Top 50. To put it you another way, over 35 teams that are worth over $1 billion did not make it onto the Forbes hallowed halls.

How is a growth like this even possible? TV contracts have grown exponentially, labor deals made with the players, sponsorship deals and ticket prices; they’ve all gone up and that means the value of the franchises have gone up. So, with all that in mind, who made up the top 5:

  1. Dallas Cowboys

For the second year running, the Dallas Cowboys took home the top spot with a market value of $4.8 billion. What makes their value so staggering, though, is the fact they haven’t won an NFL Championship in over two decades. How have they managed it then? Well, a lot of it is to do with their stadium which a) is worth $1.2 billion and b) the stadium naming rights were sold for almost $600 million.

  1. New York Yankees

There is another second-time on the list, this time with the New York Yankees being the only MLB franchise to make it onto the top 10. What are they worth? $3.7 billion. Sure, it has been a while since they themselves won a championship (2009 to be precise), but they have accumulated 27 World Series’, they do make $120 million from sponsorship and they have a $130 million revenue from seating.

  1. Manchester United

This was once the most valuable sports team in the world, but third place isn’t bad, not by any means, not when you look at their worth of $3.69 billion, which has gone up by over 10% in one year. The reason they are so successful is partly to do with their heritage on the field but mainly to do with their mastery in commercial income. Yup, we’re alluding to the 10-year $1 billion sponsorship deal with Adidas.

  1. FC Barcelona

There is a load of reasons why FC Barcelona is worth $3.64 billion. Some of it has to do with the man, the myth, the legend that is Lionel Messi, some of it is to do with their vast global reach, all of which lead back to their great clinics in Barcelona, and some of it is to do with their kit deal with Nike, that is said to be worth $175 million per year (and it doesn’t run out for another ten years). Of course, their stadium capacity may well have a lot to do with it as well. Basically, they’re a big club.

  1. Real Madrid

Unlike everyone else on this list, Real Madrid’s net worth actually declined in the past year, meaning it’s most valuable soccer team crown has been taken from it. That said, a market value of $3.58 billion is hardly worth complaining about. And they put that money to use as well, securing what one of the world’s biggest earners – and global icon – Cristiano Ronaldo.

Business Checklist

Clyde K. Valle
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Business Checklist

Every business starts somewhere. Whether you’re just starting out, or have already jumped in, you need to know the essentials of setting up your business. You’re not going to use all of these essentials at once, but you’ll want to keep them all in the back of your head. The first step in success is making sure you have a plan for that success!

 

Step 1: What is your business going to look like?

When you’re starting a business, you need to consider what form it is going to take.

  1. What’s your idea?

Before investing you time and money in your business, make sure that you have a good idea. What seems like a great idea to you might not appeal to everyone. Ask people around you for input on the idea, and accept their feedback.

So what are the steps to take in order to make sure your idea is strong?

  • Look at the current state of the business. You should be familiar with the area surrounding your business. Is there a demand for your product or service?
  • Look at your area. Who are your competitors going to be? Are you going to be fighting for customers? Make sure that you’re able to find customers, and target the ones you’re looking for.
  1. What’s your plan?

Don’t get so excited by your great idea that you let this step fall to the side. If you don’t have a plan for your business, then you’ll find yourself scrambling to figure out what to do down the line.

Your great idea for the business was a good first step, but you need to sit down and plan out your future. When bringing in potential partners or investors, you’ll want to show them what you intend for the future of the business.

 

What’s your marketing plan?

So you know your plan for the future of the business, but how about your plan for reaching customers? As a new business, you have to make yourself known to your new base of customers. This will be a continuous process; you want everyone to know of your existence. Include some marketing ideas in your business plan, and make sure to give thought to how you’ll spread the word of your arrival.

Image source Max Pixel

 

  1. What’s your name?

 Here’s the fun one that you have probably already been mulling over: your business needs a name! The name is very first thing that customers will hear or see; it represents your business to the world. When brainstorming, be sure to consider how your business will be viewed based on the name. Does it fit the tone and feeling you intend for your business? You can source ideas from others for this step, you never know who might come up with the perfect idea!

When considering ideas, make sure that you don’t get too attached to any one name. Write down a list of potential ideas that you like. Once you’re narrowed these down to a handful, be sure to do your research. Search online for existing company names via a company formation site, and make sure it isn’t already registered to another company. You’ll need to be sure that it isn’t already trademarked, or you could run into all kinds of trouble in your future.

 

  1. What’s your logo?

 Just like the name, the business logo is representing you to your entire base of potential customers. Give some thought to the design and appearance you want. Just like the name, make sure that the logo matches the feeling you want customers to receive from your business.

When it comes to designing the logo, don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty! If you’re an artist, or handy with online art editors, try your hand at creating your own! There are many DIY logo sites online that can help you design the face of your business. If you have friends or relatives that are artists, consider enlisting their services. Make sure that you don’t use an image you don’t own! Don’t pull random logos from the internet, as the copyright already belongs to someone else.

Other options include hiring graphic designers and artists, but expect to pay more for their artwork. Do your research, and be sure to select a well reputable artist. Often you’ll be able to view their portfolio, and make sure their art style is suitable for you.

  1. Do you have an online presence?

 In today’s age, almost all businesses will have a website or social media account. It’s important to consider what you want your business’ digital footprint to be, and how you plan to make it happen.

If you plan on having a website, make sure it’s well designed. You can build the site yourself, or hire a web designer. If a website isn’t for you, then consider social media. Use social media to your advantage when reaching new customers, as well as posting engaging content for your existing customers.

 

Step 2: How will your business run?

 

So far so good! You know what shape your business will take. Now you need to decide how your business will function.

 

  1. How do you handle finances and banking?

Your business is going to be spending (and hopefully making!) money. You’ll need to plan out how that money is going to be handled. Some things to consider:

  • Set up a bank account for your business. Don’t trust yourself to keep all the figures straight within your personal account.
  • Be careful when financing your business. Starting the business alone will be expensive, even before the costs of keeping it running. Decide now if you plan to self-fund, raise money from people around you, or apply for a loan. Whichever idea you choose, be sure to include it in your business plan.

  

  1. Where is your business?

Many startups begin running out of home. Consider if this is an option for you. If possible, it will drastically cut costs for you when starting your business.

Your business addresses will be important when it comes to shipping or receiving products.

If you cannot run from home, then you’ll need to obtain a location for your business. Some things to consider about locations:

  • How much is the location? Can you afford it? Decide if you should lease or purchase the building or location, and make sure it realistically fits within your budget.
  • Visit the location before designing anything. Property that looks great online or on paper might have issue that become apparent when you visit. Work with brokers or property managers to ensure that you find the right fit for your business.

 

  1. Who are your employees?

When hiring employees, you’ll take on certain responsibilities as their employer. Consider how you will pay them, follow health and safety requirements, and acquire employer’s insurance.

Additionally, you’ll need to consider the kind of people you want working for you. Be sure to interview candidates before hiring them. You want to hire a team that is a good fit for you and your business.

Be sure to look into the different types of business insurance policies you might need.

  1. How are delivering your product or service?

 If your business involves shipping products, consider how you will be doing so. Think about how you will send your products. Will you charge? Offer different delivery options and speeds?

Do your research to find out the regulations when it comes to packaging and shipping. If you are selling a food or drink item, there are special regulations from the Food Standards Agency that you must follow.

How will you handle customer returns? As a business, you must offer a refund if a product is faulty, not as described or does not do what it is supposed to do. If customers return the product within 14 days they are entitled to a refund.  Decide if you plan to extend this to 30 days or more.

If your product doesn’t need to be shipped, consider any other communications you might need: Stationary, letterheads, business cards, etc.

 

Step 3: How will you protect your business?

So now your business is up and running! You’re off to a great start, but don’t forget to check these most important items off your checklist. Company registration is essential for new businesses.

  1. What is your legal structure?

You’ll need to decide what legal structure you plan to use to run your business. Research the different structures online, and see which one fits your business first. Chances are you already have a structure in mind, and just don’t know they name of it. Some of the most common structures are:

  • Sole trader.
  • Private company limited by shares.
  • Private company limited by guarantee.
  • Limited Liability Partnership (LLP).

 

  1. Do you need any additional permits?

When running your business, you need to do your research. Find out if there are any licenses or permits that you need to obtain in order to ship or trade your products. If you know any friends of family within similar business, use them as a resource.

 

  1. Are you keeping information secure?

As a business, you will be collecting information from customers, employees, and even suppliers. You’re responsible for keeping that information secure.

If your business if creating ideas or any other content, you’ll want to protect them! Patents and copyright rights can help ensure that you don’t see another company using your intellectual property (IP).

  

  1. Are you paying your taxes?

As with any business, you will need to register your business with the HMRC for taxes. Your legal structure will determine what taxes you pay, so pay special care when looking into structures. You may need to consult an accountant when it comes to running your business, and ensuring that you’re following all your financial responsibilities.

Use this checklist as a launching point, and hopefully have success in starting your new business!

#MeToo: Michael Douglas Accused of Harassment by Former Employee Susan Braudy

Lisa.Felice
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0
#MeToo: Michael Douglas Accused of Harassment by Former Employee Susan Braudy

Michael Douglas has been accused of harassment more than a week after he issued a pre-emptive denial of the claims.

His former employee, author and journalist Susan Braudy, said the actor’s alleged treatment left her feeling “humiliated”.

Susan Braudy’ claims include that he performed an act in front of her.

Michael Douglas responded by saying: “This is a complete lie, fabrication, no truth in it whatsoever.”

The actor’s statement came 10 days before Susan Braudy’s allegations were published by The Hollywood Reporter.

Michael Douglas explained he “felt the need to get ahead” of the situation and share his concerns about the “nightmare” scenario.

Susan Braudy worked for Michael Douglas’s company Stonebridge Productions in the late 1980s.

She claims he used inappropriate language in front of her, including openly discussing extra-marital affairs, while she was running the company’s New York office.

Image source Wikimedia

Why Michael Douglas lied about type of cancer he had

Susan Braudy also alleges that Michael Douglas commented about her body, which made her then wear loose, dark clothing.

“I realized he thought he could do anything he wanted because he was so much more powerful than I was,” she said, adding that she ran home and vowed to never be alone with him again.

Susan Braudy finished working for the actor in 1989.

Michael Douglas, who originally spoke to Deadline, said: “I pride myself on my reputation in this business, not to mention the long history of my father and everything else.

“I don’t have skeletons in my closet, or anyone else who’s coming out or saying this. I’m bewildered why, after 32 years, this is coming out, now.”

The actor also claimed there is no evidence against him and he feared that such accusations could set back the #MeToo movement that has grown in the wake of the Hollywood harassment scandal.

Michael Douglas said: “Being accused, without a chance [to defend yourself] in court. To not even really have the information in front of you, to be able to argue or defend yourself.

“There is no due process, no chance of seeing evidence in front of me from my accuser. It worries me.”

Susan Braudy told The Hollywood Reporter she was not surprised by the way Michael Douglas had issued his denial.

She claimed the manner in which he did so was “part of the problem, as is his pretext of victimization”.

Susan Braudy added: “These are some reasons why so many women don’t come forward with their stories – Lord knows it’s taken 30 years and a movement for me to gather my courage.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O4Lpg8loODk

David and Louise Turpin Deny Holding Children in Shackles

Nancy Clayson
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David and Louise Turpin Deny Holding Children in Shackles

David and Louise Turpin, the California couple accused of holding their 13 children in shackles at their home, have pleaded not guilty.

The parents are facing charges of torture, abuse and false imprisonment.

David Turpin, 56, and Louise Turpin, 49, were arrested after their daughter escaped from their home where police found some of her siblings chained to their beds and severely malnourished.

They appeared in court hours after prosecutors detailed the horrific abuse allegations against them.

According to Riverside County District Attorney Mike Hestrin, David and Louise Turpin had allegedly punished their children by tying them up – first using ropes and later chaining them to their beds with padlocks.

Mike Hestrin said the alleged punishments would last weeks or months, and intensified over time.

According to prosecutors, circumstantial evidence showed the children were not released from their chains to go to the toilet.

Image source Riverside County Sheriff’s Department

Turpin Case: California Couple Arrested for Allegedly Holding Their 13 Children Captive

The children, who are aged between two and 29, have been treated in hospital since being freed on January 15.

Mike Hestrin detailed some of the gruesome allegations against David and Louise Turpin at a news conference on January 18.

An investigation has found that:

  • David and Louise Turpin’s children were accustomed to frequent beatings, including strangulation
  • The children were only allowed one shower a year
  • They would stay awake all night until going to sleep at four or five in the morning and slept during the day
  • The children were not allowed to play with any toys but many were found inside the house in their original packaging
  • If the children washed their hands above the wrist they were subjected to punishments, allegedly accused of “playing with water”
  • David and Louise Turpin allowed their children to eat only one meal a day but the parents would sometimes buy food, like pumpkin pies, and place it where the children could see it but not eat it
  • The children have never seen a dentist and haven’t visited a doctor in over four years
  • They lack basic knowledge of life, and did not know who a police officer was

According to authorities, the two-year-old was of normal weight but the other children were severely malnourished.

The 12-year-old weighed as much as a 7-year-old and the 29-year-old weighed only 82 lbs.

Mike Hestrin said that several of the children have cognitive impairment and “neuropathy, which is nerve damage, as a result of this extreme and prolonged physical abuse”.

Though little is known about the children’s education, some of them were able to read and write. David Turpin registered a private school in their California home, known as Sandcastle Day School.

Police have obtained hundreds of journals that the children were allowed to write in.

Before moving to California, the Turpins lived in Texas.

At one point, the parents allegedly lived in a different house from their children and would drop off food from time to time, officials said.

If found guilty of the dozens of charges against them, David and Louise Turpin face 94 years to life in prison, Mike Hestrin added.

The 13 children were found in an emaciated state in their filthy, foul-smelling house, police revealed earlier. Officers had at first thought all the children were minors but later realized some were frail and malnourished adults, they said.

Mike Hestrin said that when officers arrived, three of the couple’s children were chained to their beds.

China GDP Beats Expectations Reaching 6.9% Growth in 2017

Clyde K. Valle
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China GDP Beats Expectations Reaching 6.9% Growth in 2017

According to official data, China’s economy grew by 6.9% in 2017 – the first time in seven years the pace of growth has picked up.

The figure beats the government’s official annual expansion target of about 6.5%.

China is a key driver of the global economy and so the better-than-expected data is likely to cheer investors around the world.

However, many China watchers believe the GDP numbers are much weaker than the official figures suggest.

This month alone, the governments of Inner Mongolia and of the large industrial city of Tianjin have admitted their economic numbers for 2016 were overstated.

Taking the figures at face value, the 2017 growth rate is China’s highest in two years and it represents the first time the economy has expanded faster than the previous year since 2010.

However, as Beijing ramps up efforts to reduce risky debt and to increase air quality, analysts said this may impact 2018 growth.

The numbers released on January 18 also showed that in O4 of 2017, the economy grew at an annual rate of 6.8% – slightly higher than analysts had been expecting.

The country’s debt has risen significantly in recent years, with worrying numbers around local government loans, corporate and household debt and non-performing bank loans.

China becomes world’s largest economy

China Cuts 2017 Growth Target to 6.5%

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) said recently that China’s debt had ballooned and was now equivalent to 234% of the total output. It said China needed to concentrate less on growth and instead help improve banks’ finances, among other efforts.

Meanwhile, the Chinese government says it has been taking steps to contain risky debt despite the impact that might have on economic growth – efforts the IMF said it recognized.

The government has promised to continue tackling local government debt, among other efforts, and on January 18 vowed to help state-owned enterprises “leverage and cut debt … and to repay their bonds on time this year”.

China’s strict anti-pollution measures, which were introduced across 28 cities in 2017, are also expected to hurt economic growth in the short term.

The measures have included shutting down or cutting back production at factories in heavy industry like cement and steel.

Households have also been asked to switch to natural gas and electricity from coal, in an effort to curb pollution.

However, this policy left millions without proper heating, and so was temporarily abandoned in December.

According to officials, Beijing’s air quality improved sharply in the winter of 2017. They also heralded their efforts as a “new reality” for China.

Robots and Their Impact on Human Productivity

Dana R
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Robots and Their Impact on Human Productivity

There’s no doubt that there have been rapid developments in technology with regard to robotics. And with AI continually advancing, automation will make a stronger presence in the workforce. In fact, the International Federation of Robotics (IFR) predicts that there will be 1.4 million new industrial robots by the time 2019 rolls in. That’s only in the in field of manufacturing. Imagine how robots will affect other industries too.

Many tech companies have already delved into robotics to improve their processes. Nix Solutions have been giving updates about the world of modern robotics via social media sharing. Their experts believe that this technology, among many others, will shape the future. The field of robotics has a vast potential. But how have they impacted human productivity so far? Let’s take a look:

Google-Push-into-Robotics-robots-dancing

Increase Competitiveness

First, robots will increase the level of competitiveness of a company. This is especially true for small to medium sized businesses that cannot afford to have a lot of manpower yet. By making use of automated systems like RPAs, they can make their processes more efficient and effective.

Make Tasks Easier

There are many times when employees get stuck in certain tasks. Because of this, they waste a lot of time which can otherwise be spent doing more productive things. As productivity becomes low, revenue decreases as well. Robots can help eliminate the wasted time  by taking over repetitive tasks. When they are programmed to perform those tasks, they can do them more quickly and efficiently.

Increase The Number of Jobs

While most employees might disagree with this, it is actually quite true. Increased productivity can lead to an increase in demand. An increase in demand will also lead to an increase in job opportunities. There are a lot of tasks that can’t be done by robots anyway. Thus, there will still be a high demand for people who can work well.

Work Without Assistance

If a robot has been programmed to do a certain task, it will do it automatically. Let’s take RPAs for example. RPAs are rule-based. In other words, you set the rules for it, and they follow those rules. As long as you tell a robot what to do, it will carry out the task intelligently by making use of the information in its database. Sometime in the future, robots will eventually be able to work without much programming from humans. That way, robots can think and finish projects like humans do.

Conclusion

Considering all points stated above, robots have definitely created a big impact in the workforce. When it comes to finishing tasks, robots have the capacity to handle them easily. Despite popular belief, robots have already impacted the workplace positively. If you combine robotics and AI, you will be able to create a greatly productive company.

To know what the experts of Nix Solutions are saying about robotics, you can check out the company contacts here:

Upwork: https://www.upwork.com/fl/nixsolutions

Github: https://github.com/nixsolutions

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nix-solutions-ltd

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nixsolutionsltd/

How to Associate Files in Windows 10 by Extension

Nancy Clayson
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Association of the file in Windows is used to assign a single program which will be used in future to open files of the specified extension. For example, sometimes files .ink or executable programs .exe exposed incorrectly and are opened by the wrong programs which leads to the corruption of files, so you need to restore those afterwards.

If you want to know what kind of program is better to use for opening a specific file type, visit Wiki Ext website containing data about all kinds of file extensions.

Why File Association Is Important?

If a wrong program is used to open the specified file, you will get a zero result. So you need to make sure the files are associated correctly, so that you wouldn’t have to open the file manually using specific program. Correct association will also allow you to use the most convenient programs among those installed on your computer to open the specified types of files.

Restoration Of Files Associations In Windows 10

In the Windows 10 parameters there is a section allowing to drop all associations of files to default settings (which operates with some restrictions that will be disclosed below).

Enter the “Parameters” (Win+I keys) — System — Applications by default. If you manage to enter the specified section “Reset to Recommended Microsoft by Default Values”, you can click “Drop” button. Then all associations of files will be downgraded to the default one.

As it was already mentioned, there are some restrictions to this option. The thing is that when the option is used, the comparisons of files set by the user are deleted: in most cases, it works to correct typical violations of files associations.

However, sometimes it works the other way. For example, if we are taking the associations of the .exe and .lnk files, it is very important to set up a correct program to open those. And if chosen incorrectly, the damage to the registry could be done.

Also, as well as in prior versions of OS, in Windows 10 it is possible to recover associations of system files using the register editor. Without entering the appropriate values in the register manually, and using .reg files for import to the register the system could be corrupted. And most often it is about .lnk (labels) and .exe (program) files.

When you open editor at the end of the specified page you will find the list of file types that need correction of associations. Load .reg file for these file types which are required to be corrected and launch those (or click with the right mouse button the file and select “merge”). Do not forget to acquire administrator rights before you do that.

You will see the editor register window message that the procedure can lead to inadvertent change or deleting values; agree and after the message about successful adding of data to the register appears, close the editor and reboot to restore associations.

Tax Cuts: Apple to Pay $38 Billion in Foreign Cash Taxes Following New Rules

Clyde K. Valle
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0
Tax Cuts: Apple to Pay $38 Billion in Foreign Cash Taxes Following New Rules

Following recent changes to American tax rules, Apple will pay about $38 billion in tax on the roughly $250 billion cash pile it holds outside the US.

The sum is expected to be the biggest payment under the reforms, which slash the US corporate tax rate.

Apple also plans to build a new campus and create 20,000 new jobs in the US.

The tech giant said its plans would contribute more than $350 billion to the US economy over the next five years.

It has not said how much of its cash abroad would be brought back to the US.

CEO Tim Cook said Apple is “focusing our investments in areas where we can have a direct impact on job creation”.

The company employs about 84,000 people in the US and expects to spend $55 billion with domestic suppliers and manufacturers this year.

Image source Flickr

Senate Passes Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Bill

Paradise Papers Reveal Apple’s Secret Tax Bolthole

Apple has data centers in seven states. On January 17, it broke ground on an expansion of its operations in Reno, Nevada.

The company plans to spend more than $10 billion on data centers over five years, as part of a $30 billion capital spending plan for the US.

The location of Apple’s new campus, which will house technical support staff, will be announced later in 2018.

The company had earlier said it planned $16 billion in capital expenditures in 2018, up from about $15 billion in the prior year.

Apple is the latest company to promote plans to invest in America following the overhaul of the US tax code.

According to new rules, the corporate rate has been cut from 35% to 21%. They also stopped applying the corporate rate to profits that companies make overseas, in exchange for a one-off tax payment.

President Donald Trump had argued the cuts would make the US more competitive and spur domestic companies to invest at home.

House Speaker Paul Ryan, a Republican congressman who spearheaded the tax overhaul, celebrated Apple’s plans to invest in a post on Twitter.

He said: “This is great news for the American economy and for America’s workers.”

Opponents to the new tax law predicted much of the money companies saved from the cuts would go to share buybacks and higher dividends.

Apple has spent $166 billion already to repurchase shares under a plan to return $300 billion to shareholders by March 2019.

It has previously called for simplification of the tax rules, amid criticism of its large overseas cash holdings and investigation by US tax authorities.

Apple reported nearly $230 billion in sales and more than $48 billion in profit for the 12 months ended September 30.

PyeongChang 2018: North Korea and South Korea to March Under Single Flag

Clyde K. Valle
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0
PyeongChang 2018: North Korea and South Korea to March Under Single Flag

North Korea and South Korea will march together under a single “unified Korea” flag at next month’s Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang.

In rare talks at the truce village of Panmunjom, the two Koreas also agreed to field a joint women’s ice hockey team.

These are the first high-level talks between North Korea and South Korea in more than two years.

It marks a thaw in relations that began in the new year when North Korean leader Kim Jong-un offered to send a team to the games.

The games will take place between February 9 and 25 in Pyeongchang, South Korea.

If the plans are realized, a hundreds-strong North Korean delegation – including 230 cheerleaders, 140 orchestral musicians and 30 taekwondo athletes – could cross into South Korea via the land border to attend the Winter Olympics.

It will mean the opening of the cross border road for the first time in almost two years.

The two Koreas have also agreed to field a joint team for the sport of women’s ice hockey. It would be the first time athletes from both Koreas have competed together in the same team at an Olympic Games.

Image source YouTube

Winter Games 2018: South Korea Olympic Chair Cho Yang-ho Resigns

PyeongChang Winter Olympics 2018: North Korea Rejects South Korea’s Offer to Form Unified Team

North Korea has also agreed to send a smaller, 150-member delegation to the Paralympics in March.

The agreement will have to be approved by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) meeting in Lausanne, Switzerland, on January 20, because North Korea has missed registration deadlines or failed to qualify.

South Korea will also need to find ways to host the North Korean delegation without violating UN Security Council sanctions outlawing cash transfers to Pyongyang and blacklisting certain senior North Korean officials.

South Korea’s hockey coach and conservative newspapers have expressed concern about the prospect of a united hockey team, saying it could damage South Korea’s chances of winning a medal.

Tens of thousands of people are said to have signed online petitions urging South Korean President Moon Jae-in to scrap the plan.

However, the president told South Korean Olympic athletes on January 17 that North Korea’s participation in the Games would help improve inter-Korean relations.

President Moon Jae-in has said the Olympic agreement could pave the way for the nuclear issue to be addressed and lead to dialogue between North Korea and the US, according to Yonhap news agency in Seoul.

President Donald Trump Has A Normal Cognitive Ability

Diane A. Wade
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President Donald Trump Has A Normal Cognitive Ability

According to the White House physician, Dr. Ronny Jackson, President Donald Trump has shown no abnormal signs following a cognitive exam and is in excellent health.

Dr. Ronny Jackson said at a White House briefing on January 16: “I have no concerns about his cognitive ability or neurological functions.”

Last week, Donald Trump, 71, had a three-hour examination in his first medical check-up since becoming president.

The medical check-up comes after the release of a controversial book fuelled speculation about the president’s mental health.

Dr Jackson said: “All data indicates the president is healthy and will remain so for the duration of his presidency.”

“He continues to enjoy the significant long-term cardiac and overall health benefits that come from a lifetime of abstinence from tobacco and alcohol,” the physician added.

When asked by a reporter how a man who consumes fried chicken and Diet Coke and does not exercise could be in good shape, Dr. Ronny Jackson replied: “It’s called genetics… He has incredible genes.”

However, he added that President Trump could benefit from a lower-fat diet and more exercise.

Image source WhiteHouse.gov

President Donald Trump Is in Excellent Health After Physical Exam, White House Doctor Says

Donald Trump Is In Excellent Physical Health, Says Dr. Harold Bornstein

On January 12, the president was examined by military doctors at the Walter Reed Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, in tests that were said to have gone “exceptionally well”.

Among them was Dr. Ronny Jackson, whose official title is Physician to the President.

A rear admiral in the US Navy, Dr. Jackson tended to Donald Trump’s predecessor, Barack Obama.

To check for possible cognitive dysfunction, the US Department of Veterans Affairs uses the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) neuropsychological test. This test assesses an individual’s attention and concentration, memory, language, conceptual thinking, calculations and orientation.

Questions have been raised about the president’s cognitive ability, particularly with the publication of Michael Wolff’s book, Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House.

Some neurological experts had compared earlier clips of President Trump speaking with more recent instances in which he had used fewer words and appeared to ramble.

Michael Wolff has alleged the president is intellectually incapable of carrying out his role and questioned his mental fitness. He claimed all of the president’s White House aides saw him as a “child” who needed “immediate gratification”.

In December 2015, Donald Trump’s own long-time doctor, Harold Bornstein, declared in a pre-election assessment that his client would be the “healthiest individual ever elected to the presidency”.

6 Ways You Can Attain Peace Through Spiritual Mindfulness

Dana R
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6 Ways You Can Attain Peace Through Spiritual Mindfulness

With the hustle and bustle of daily life in the modern age, it’s really no wonder that stress levels are higher than ever before. As you go about your routine, you may find it hard to remain anchored in the moment, as worries about the past or future weigh you down. If you find yourself struggling in these times, then you may need to incorporate a little spiritual mindfulness into your daily routine. You may be surprised by how much peace it brings you.

Daily Meditation

There are actually many health benefits behind daily prayer and meditation. It doesn’t matter how much time you take out to do it or how you do it, so long as you have that moment to anchor yourself in the “now”. Some benefits of daily mindfulness practices like prayer or meditation can include a reduction in the symptoms brought on by pain, anxiety, stress, or depression. It can even help with physical ailments like low blood pressure, or help with symptoms that are associated with insomnia, heart disease, or even cancer. Additionally, you’ll be able to achieve a sense of internal peace and calm, which is quite a rarity in the busy haze of daily life.

Mealtime Prayers

One great way to anchor yourself in the here and now and attain a sense of peace is by remembering just how much good there is in your life. Mealtime prayers are the perfect opportunity for you to not only reflect on those good things, but to show thanks and gratitude for them, as well. People often feel more centered after expressing gratitude, and everyone could use the occasional reminder that not everything is as bad as it sometimes seems. The stressors of modern living can sometimes blind you to the joys in your life, so little reminders are more important than you may think.

Find Likeminded People

It’s also possible to attain a greater sense of peace by surrounding yourself with others seeking the same things. Organizational websites like the way international and others exist to help tie people together through a shared faith. You likely already know that your general mood and outlook on life can be greatly impacted by those you spend the most time with. Accordingly, if you’re seeking for something particular in your life, you may want to spend time with those with similar goals, outlooks, desires, and so on. Inner peace is more easily attainable if the people around you have already attained that, or are on their own journeys to discover it.

Image result for Mindfulness

Practice Positive Thinking

It’s no secret that positive thinking has a huge impact on your mood. But did you know that it can also hugely impact your emotional, mental, and even physical health? That’s right. Being negative will not only affect your ability to achieve internal peace, but it can even result in health complications like migraines, and lower immune system tolerance which can result in you catching more illnesses. Positive thinking can easily be tied into your faith or beliefs. It’s similar to mindfulness, but it can be more self-directed. For example, practice resisting the urge to put yourself down if you don’t get something done perfectly right away! Remind yourself that you were made this way for a reason and that the struggles you face have meaning in the end. In doing this, you’ll be able to start looking at things in a positive light again.

Do Volunteer Work

Helping to better the world around you is a very powerful way to balance your inner self. If you’re looking for an anchor or seem to be unable to find a sense of peace, you may want to keep looking inward. The answer that you’re looking for might lie outside of yourself, however. Try volunteering at soup kitchens, homeless shelters, blood banks, or any other location that has personal significance and meaning to you. If you can visibly make a difference in other people’s lives, it’s likely that you will achieve your own sense of personal fulfillment in the process. The connection that you make with others while doing volunteer work is truly irreplaceable, and the experience can be life-changing for those who decide to embark on these journeys.

Be Kind To Others

You don’t have to pick up big volunteer projects or dedicate lots of your time to meditation to be spiritually mindful. Small acts of kindness can also make a big impact not only in the lives of others, but in your own as well. Hold the door open for people. Buy coffee for the person behind you in line. Give out compliments freely. In no time, you’ll be able to feel the stresses of the modern day ebb, and peace will be easier for you to achieve.

These are just a few of the ways to attain peace through spiritual mindfulness, though. Many others exist out there, just waiting for you to find what works best in your own life.

 

Steve Bannon Summoned to Testify Before Grand Jury

Diane A. Wade
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0
Steve Bannon Summoned to Testify Before Grand Jury

According to recent reports, Donald Trump’s former chief strategist, Steve Bannon, has been summoned to testify before a grand jury.

Steve Bannon was reportedly subpoenaed by former FBI director Robert Mueller, who is leading an investigation into alleged collusion with Russia during the 2016 election campaign.

On January 16, he appeared separately before a Congressional panel.

Congress is holding its own inquiry into the allegations.

Image source Wikimedia

Steve Bannon Fired as White House Chief Strategist

Steve Bannon Removed from National Security Council

The New York Times, quoting an unnamed person with direct knowledge of the matter, reports that Steve Bannon was subpoenaed last week.

However, the summons could be a negotiating tactic by Robert Mueller to persuade Steve Bannon to agree to be questioned by investigators in the less formal setting of the special counsel’s offices in Washington, the newspaper’s source added.

The House Intelligence Committee is also investigating the allegations of Russian interference in the 2016 election. Its proceedings on January 16 were not open to the public.

This is one of four investigations being conducted by Congress into the alleged collusion, with others launched by the Senate Intelligence Committee, the Senate Judiciary Committee and the House Oversight Committee.

Top Home Décor Trends for 2018

Dana R
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Top Home Décor Trends for 2018

sofa

2017 was a year of experimentation for interior designers and home owners alike. Trendsetters are predicting this trend to go even further in 2018 with many designers pushing boundaries. However there are some trends from 2017 that will disappear this year, like decorating in turquoise. On trend couches will no longer be sporting the colour, instead we’ll see emeralds, plum and autumn colours, like reds and deep yellows.

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Typography

Typhography will still be in, in 2018. Make way for more words like EAT over the kitchen counter, DREAM in the living spaces and RELAX in bathrooms. This trend isn’t set to die out anytime soon, in fact we’re predicting to see even more of it in 2018. Instead of wooden blocks with printed words, expect to see more framed art pieces from artists and typographers rather than homemade replicas.

parrots

Parrots

Parrots are the new flamingos. Flamingos are still on trend in January but expect to see less and less of them as the year progresses and more brightly styled parrots on everything from your couch cushions, bedding to art prints and even dresses and aprons to match. Interestingly, the Parrot, while on trend when it comes to home décor, didn’t fare as well in the Guardian’s poll of Australia’s favourite bird for 2017. The Australian Magpie came in top place with the King Parrot further down the list in 12th place with just 3,446 votes to the winning, Magpie’s 19,926.

floral

Floral Prints

Continueing on with our trend of bright and bold colours for 2018, the floral print is back this year and bigger than ever. You’re likely to start spotting it on large billowing fabrics like drapery and Manchester, but you can expect it on chairs and throw pillows as well.

Earthy Lux Vibes

As we’re bombarded with technology in our everyday lives, we’re moving away from this when it comes to decorating our homes. Instead of cold and austere industrial furniture and finishes we’re now moving towards a more earthy and natural vibe. Think hippy but paired with luxury for relaxation. As our work lives are so hectic we want to unwind in more natural feeling spaces.

One of a Kind

Continuing with the theme of earthy lux vibes and more natural tones in the home, one of a kind pieces are forever on trend. This includes buying second hand homewares to find one of a kind pieces instead of mass produced ‘on trend’ items that are only fashionable in the now. Shoppers are becoming more savvy and don’t want to compromise quality for price, instead opting for higher quality used pieces at a discounted rate. You can also find unique pieces at NW Rugs store in Jantzen Beach.

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Lavender Hues

Everyone is still loving on Millennial pink but we’re moving on from that and adjusting to lavender hues instead. Lavender creates equally soft and pastel pops to your home, like Millennial pink, without actually having to be Millennial pink. Nancy Fire, Creative Director of HGTV HOME, Design Works International and Studio NYC Design stated “People were sarcastic about Millennial pink at the beginning, but it’s being used to bring out beautiful, soft tones with accents that are deeper.”

California Hate Crimes on the Rise

Dana R
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California Hate Crimes on the Rise

History would attest that America is a land of immigrants, but why is it that the nation is more divided now than ever? A country that has once prided itself of its own cultural and ethnic diversity is now fighting a war against something far worse than its enemies outside its borders. For what could be worse than fighting a battle against your own?

Hate crimes in the country are mainly triggered by prejudice and hatred against a certain gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or belief. When people turn their prejudice, hatred, and tainted ideals into violent actions, these become hate crimes. It may be surprising to some that the US, a country of immigrants, would still have crimes of this nature. In fact, reports show that hate crimes in several major US cities have been spiking up at an unsettling rate in the last few years. In particular, the state of California has had one of the highest increase in hate crimes in the country.

Image source Fox News

According to the California Department of Justice, hate crime related activities went up by 11.2% from 2015 to 2016. Moreover, state statistics show that majority of the hate crimes from 2007-2016 are motivated by racial biases, taking 57 percent of all hate crimes during that period. This is followed by sexual orientation bias with 22.5 percent and religious bias with 17.9 percent. These alarming statistics translate to real life, and recent events in the country prove just how real these numbers are.

In August of this year, Alberto Campos, a Latino man, was sentenced to three years in prison after he had beat up Kevin Raspberry, a black man, who he thought was hitting on his girlfriend. The defendant was also accused of yelling at Raspberry and calling him the “N-word”. San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyer Victoria Ramirez addressed the court, saying that the defendant was remorseful for his actions and only thought that he was defending his girlfriend. “That is the day I will regret for the rest of my life,” said Campos. Raspberry was not present the day Campos was sentenced to jail.

In October 2017, an attack took place at a restaurant on University Avenue against a Somali Man who was knocked down by Sean Arevalo and his friends Terrance Crow Jr. and Scott Peretti. The men were reported to have yelled inside the restaurant proclaiming their patriotism and condemning Muslims. They went on to barrate two Muslim women, and attacked the Somali Man. The men convicted of the hate crime were were brought in at San Diego Superior Court this October 2017 wherein Crow Jr. was sentenced to 120 days in jail.

More recently, two men, Samuel Wickwire and Wade Rutledge, were charged for allegedly terrorizing and spitting on a gay couple in a beach parking lot in Orange County. The pair threatened them with violence if the gay couple did not leave the premises. As the couple were getting in their car, Rutledge pushed one of the victims in the car and slammed the door on the victim’s hand. Both men were arrested in December, and currently face a maximum of six to seven years in prison.

These hate crimes are just a few of the many offenses done in California. Learning about the different accounts of hate crime victims in the country is both surprising and disheartening. People guilty of hate crimes are bullies that spread anger and terror, and this should not be tolerated. These people are pushing to further divide the country, and this is the last thing the country needs.

Turpin Case: California Couple Arrested for Allegedly Holding Their 13 Children Captive

Nancy Clayson
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Turpin Case: California Couple Arrested for Allegedly Holding Their 13 Children Captive

David Allen Turpin and his wife, Louise Anna, have been arrested after police found their 13 children were held captive at home, some “shackled to their beds with chains and padlocks”.

The couple was held on charges of torture and child endangerment.

Their children – aged two to 29 – lived in Perris, 59 miles south-east of Los Angeles.

Police officers were alerted by one of the victims, a 17-year-old girl.

On January 15, the girl – who appeared to be “only 10 years old and slightly emaciated” – managed to escape and call the emergency number using a mobile phone found inside the house, the Riverside Sheriff’s Department said in a statement.

Officers later found “several children shackled to their beds with chains and padlocks in dark and foul-smelling surroundings”.

They were “shocked” to discover that seven of them were actually adults aged between 18 and 29.

“The victims appeared to be malnourished and very dirty,” the police said.

The children are now being treated in local hospitals.

The head of one of the hospitals, Mark Uffer, told Reuters: “It’s actually heartbreaking for the staff and it’s unbelievable what you see.”

Image source Riverside County Sheriff’s Department

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According to public records, David Allen Turpin, 57, and Louise Anna Turpin, 49, lived in Texas for many years before moving to California in 2010.

David Turpin has twice been declared bankrupt. At the time of his second bankruptcy he is said to have had a relatively well-paid job as an engineer at aeronautics and defense technology company Northrop Grumman.

However, with so many children and his wife not working, records suggest David Turpin’s expenses exceeded his income.

The man’s parents, James and Betty Turpin, said that they had not seen the family for four or five years.

They told ABC they were considered a good Christian family in their community and that “God called on them” to have so many children.

The family’s Facebook page shows numerous pictures of them, apparently happy and smiling, some from events where David and Louise Turpin renewed their vows.

Many posts have comments from family or friends.

David Turpin’s parents said their grandchildren were home-schooled, but it is not entirely clear what that means.

On the California Department of Education website, David Turpin is listed as the principal of Sandcastle Day School – a private school operated out of his home.

According to the website, the school was opened in March 2011. Six pupils are enrolled there, all in different grades.

In California, private schools operate outside the jurisdiction of the education department and most regulations. They are directly accountable to students and their parents or guardians, and the state has no authority to monitor or evaluate them.

Teachers at private schools in California also do not need to hold a valid state teaching qualification.

One neighbor told Reuters that the Turpin family “were the type that you didn’t really get to know anything about them”.

He said: “You would never see them on visit, you would never see anyone come outside. All you would really see is that they go out and maybe do a grocery round. And that was about it.”

Another neighbor from across the street, Kimberly Milligan, 50, told the Los Angeles Times they seemed strange and wondered why the children never came out to play.

“I thought the kids were home-schooled,” Kimberly Milligan said.

“You know something is off, but you don’t want to think bad of people.”

Kimberly Milligan recalls on one occasion saying hello to the children but said they looked at her “like a child who wants to make themselves invisible”.

Colombia Highway Bridge Collapse Kills Nine in Chirajara

Nancy Clayson
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0
Colombia Highway Bridge Collapse Kills Nine in Chirajara

A highway bridge under construction in Colombia has collapsed, killing at least 9 workers and injuring 5 others.

The bridge in Chirajara was to be part of a highway connecting Bogotá with the city of Villavicencio.

Images from the scene show a large part of the 450m-long bridge lying in the ravine below.

Colombia’s Transport Minister Germán Cardona spoke of a “tragedy” and said the cause of the collapse would be investigated.

One of the workers injured in the collapse described the moment it happened.

Luis Alvarado told El Tiempo newspaper: “Everyone started shouting that the bridge was falling, I didn’t have time to do anything and then I felt a blow to my head.”

Image source AFP

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Construction officials said that fortunately not many workers were on the bridge at the time of the collapse as staff were receiving a safety briefing.

The bridge is part of an ambitious program to improve the route leading from the capital to the eastern plains by turning parts of it into a dual carriageway.

The planned works include the construction of 18 new tunnels and 42 bridges and viaducts as well as new lighting and CCTV cameras.

The existing – winding and narrow – road faces frequent closures with trucks supplying the capital with produce often breaking down, blocking traffic.

The company tasked with the works is Coviandes, which is majority-owned by a Colombian investment corporation.

On January 15, Coviandes issued a statement saying it would do everything it could to help the families of the workers who died or were injured in the collapse.

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