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Jordan Warns US over Jerusalem’s Recognition as Israel’s Capital

Roy Siemens
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0
Jordan Warns US over Jerusalem’s Recognition as Israel’s Capital

The Arab world is reacting to an expected announcement by President Donald Trump that the United States will recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.

According to recent reports, President Trump will make the statement this week but will further delay acting on a campaign pledge to move the US embassy to Jerusalem.

The head of the Arab League, Jordan and the Palestinian president have warned of the consequences of a declaration.

Jerusalem’s fate is one of the thorniest issues between Israel and the Arabs.

A deadline for President Trump to sign a waiver delaying the relocation of the US embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem expires on December 4.

Every president, including Donald Trump, has signed the waiver every six months since US Congress passed an act in 1995 calling for the embassy to be moved.

Donald Trump repeatedly pledged during his election campaign to move the embassy, and while he has said it was still his intention, he has not yet done so.

There are signs however the president will make a statement on December 6 announcing Washington’s recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel while holding off moving the embassy.

Image source Wikimedia

Israel Settlements: Jerusalem Housing and Planning Committee Postpones Vote on Jewish Homes

Israel-Jordan Deal on Jerusalem’s Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif Holy Site

Israel Sets up Checkpoints in East Jerusalem’s Arab Areas

The status of the city goes to the heart of Israel’s conflict with the Palestinians, who are backed by the rest of the Arab and wider Islamic world.

Jerusalem is home to key religious sites sacred to Judaism, Islam and Christianity, especially in East Jerusalem.

Israel occupied the area in the 1967 Middle East war and regards the entire city as its indivisible capital. The Palestinians claim East Jerusalem as the capital of a future state, and according to 1993 Israel-Palestinian peace accords its final status is meant to discussed in the latter stages of peace talks.

Israeli sovereignty over Jerusalem has never been recognized internationally, and all countries, including Israel’s closest ally the US, maintain their embassies in Tel Aviv, the country’s commercial capital.

Since 1967, Israel has built a dozen settlements, home to about 200,000 Jews, in East Jerusalem. These are considered illegal under international law, though Israel disputes this.

If the US recognizes Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, it will put it out-of-step with the rest of the international community and reinforce Israel’s position that settlements in the east are valid Israeli communities.

The move would also raise a question over how the US will treat resolutions dealing with East Jerusalem at the UN. The US has a power of veto and could use this to block future motions critical of Israeli policy in the east.

There is growing anger towards Washington among its allies in the Middle East.

Jordan, the custodian of Islamic holy sites in Jerusalem, has warned of “grave consequences” if President Trump goes ahead, and has called for an emergency meeting of key regional and Islamic blocs the Arab League and the Organization of the Islamic Conference to discuss the issue.

Arab League chief Abul Gheit warned such a move would “nourish fanaticism and violence”.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has contacted world leaders urging them to intervene, saying “such a US decision would destroy the peace process and drag the region into further instability”.

The US has brokered decades of on-off peace talks, and the Trump administration is formulating fresh peace proposals – but recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital would compromise Washington’s neutrality in the eyes of the Palestinians.

It remains unclear though whether President Trump will recognize Israeli sovereignty over Jerusalem.

The White House has neither confirmed nor denied the president’s intention, and in a rare public speech on December 3 his son-in-law and advisor Jared Kushner refused to be drawn on the issue.

#MeToo: Metropolitan Opera Opens Investigation into James Levine Abuse Allegations

Sonia Pantiss
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#MeToo: Metropolitan Opera Opens Investigation into James Levine Abuse Allegations

Metropolitan Opera has opened an investigation into allegations of abuse against the conductor James Levine.

James Levine, 74, was music director at the Met for 40 years before retiring for health reasons in 2016.

According to the New York Times, the claims were based on a 2016 police report in which a man accused James Levine of abusing him as a teenager in the 1980s.

The newspaper said the Met had been aware of the report since 2016.

However, James Levine had denied the accusations and the Met had heard nothing further from police, the Times added.

Image source Wikipedia

#MeToo: Matt Lauer Fired from NBC News over Assault Allegations

#MeToo: Uma Thurman Blasts Harvey Weinstein In Thanksgiving Message

The accusations follow a series of abuse and harassment claims made against high-profile figures in the entertainment industry.

In a tweet, the Met said it was “deeply disturbed” by the claims published online and was investigating “with outside resources” in order to take appropriate action.

An Illinois police report, seen by the New York Times, said the alleged victim claimed that the abuse began in 1985 when he was 15 and James Levine was 41, and continued until 1993.

James Levine has not commented publicly on the accusations.

During his career he conducted more than 2,500 performances at the Met.

James Levine made his debut there in June 1971 with Puccini’s Tosca, becoming principal conductor in the 1973-1974 season and music director in 1976-1977.

He conducted 85 different operas and also worked with the Three Tenors – Luciano Pavarotti, Jose Carreras and Placido Domingo.

Towards the end of his career, James Levine struggled with Parkinson’s disease and other health issues and conducted from a motorized wheelchair.

Germany: Anti-Fascist Protesters Try to Blockade AfD Congress in Hanover

Diane A. Wade
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Germany: Anti-Fascist Protesters Try to Blockade AfD Congress in Hanover

Several protesters and officers have been injured in clashes between police and anti-fascist demonstrators in the German city of Hanover.

Protesters were trying to blockade the far-right Alternative for Germany’s first conference since it entered parliament after September’s elections.

Once the delayed conference began, delegates elected Alexander Gauland as co-leader along with Jörg Meuthen.

Both hardliners, their election suggests the party is continuing its march further to the right.

Georg Pazderski, AfD’s regional head in Berlin and a relative moderate, failed to get delegates’ backing for the leadership.

Two months ago, AfD won 12.6% of the vote in Germany’s federal elections, becoming the third biggest force in the Bundestag after the center-right and social democrat SPD.

They had never entered the federal parliament before but are now eyeing a real chance of becoming Germany’s main opposition party.

If Angela Merkel’s Christian Democrat alliance agrees a coalition deal with Martin Schulz’s social democrats, AfD with 94 lawmakers would become the biggest non-government party.

Image source Wikimedia

Germany Regional Elections: Angela Merkel’s CDU Beaten into Third Place by AfD

Germany Clashes: 400 Protesters Arrested outside AfD Party Conference

With temperatures near freezing, Hanover police used water cannon, batons and pepper spray to clear a path for the 600 delegates.

One protester’s leg was broken after he chained himself to a barricade, while an officer was hit on the hand by a flying bottle.

Ten demonstrators were taken into custody.

A total of five protests were scheduled in Hanover on December 2. Some 6,000 people joined a pro-immigration rally in the city center and another rally called by trade unions was expected to draw thousands later.

When the conference got under way an hour late, Jörg Meuthen hailed delegates for helping the party achieve national success within five years of being founded.

He said the party was attracting support from voters put off by the other parties’ “pathetic childish games” amid an ongoing struggle to form a coalition government.

AfD has veered to the right since its inception as an anti-euro force, promoting anti-immigration and anti-Islam policies in its election campaign.

However, this sharp turn has created tension within its own ranks, with former co-leader Frauke Petry quitting within days of the election.

The delegates confirmed the AfD’s rightward trajectory, backing Alexander Gauland, the leader of the parliamentary party, for the co-leadership.

Alexander Gauland, who has pledged to stop “the invasion of foreigners” into Germany, said he had “allowed my friends to convince me to step in”.

Delegates defeated a motion to install Jörg Meuthen as the AfD’s only president.

They are also due to elect a new executive board to decide the ideological direction of AfD and debate policy motions.

Senate Passes Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Bill

Diane A. Wade
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0
Senate Passes Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Bill

The Senate has passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act bill, paving the way for President Donald Trump’s first big legislative victory.

The package would mark the biggest tax cuts since the 1980s. The bill was passed by 51 votes to 49, after a series of amendments in a marathon session.

Democrats complained the bill only benefited the wealthy and big business.

The plan sees a sharp cut in corporation tax, but a Senate committee finding has warned it would add $1trillion to the budget deficit.

Donald Trump wants the measures enacted by the end of the year and congratulated Republicans for taking the US “one step closer to delivering massive tax cuts for working families”.

The Senate will now have to merge its legislation with that passed last month by the House of Representatives, before it can be signed into law by the president.

Donald Trump Tax Plan Proposal: Sharp Reduction in Business Tax Rate

Presiding over the Senate, VP Mike Pence declared the 51-49 victory to applause from Republicans in the early hours of December 2.

The new tax plan would see the corporate tax rate lowered from 35% to 20%, and include more modest tax cuts for individuals across income levels.

Following the vote, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said his opponents would pay the price at the ballot box in mid-term elections next year.

He said the measures would endanger social security and medical provision.

Republican Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell said the legislation would prove to be “just what the country needs to get growing again”.

The final draft of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act bill went through several changes on December 1 in order to bring reluctant Republicans on board. Republicans have a 52-48 majority in the Senate.

Democrats were angry about the last-minute revisions, complaining that they had not been given enough time to digest the nearly 500-page document, with handwritten changes to the legislation.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktirlxsPH70

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

Roy Siemens
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0
Hawaii Activates Nuclear Attack Warning Siren for First Time since Cold War

Hawaii has tested a nuclear attack warning siren for the first time since the end of the Cold War.

The resumption of the monthly tests comes amid a growing threat from North Korea’s missile and nuclear program.

North Korea has tested a series of ballistic missiles and in September carried out its sixth nuclear test.

Hawaii already has a monthly test of sirens warning of natural disasters, including tsunamis.

The nuclear attack signal uses a different, wavering tone, warning residents and tourists to stay indoors and await further instructions.

The last time a nuclear attack warning siren was tested in the state was in the 1980s in the final years of the Cold War.

Image source Flickr

North Korea Fires New Ballistic Missile

However, it sounded again on December 1 and will be repeated on the first business day of every month.

Vern Miyagi, the head of the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, said it was “critically important” for the public to understand what the different tones mean, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser reported.

A missile launched from North Korea could strike Hawaii within 20 minutes of launch, the publication added.

Hawaii hosts the US military headquarters for the Asia-Pacific region.

Pyongyang recently tested a new intercontinental ballistic missile which it claims can hit anywhere on the mainland United States.

Experts say the Hwasong-15 appears capable of transporting a nuclear warhead, although it is unclear if North Korea is yet capable of making a weapon small enough to be fitted on to a missile.

Robert Mueller Investigation: Michael Flynn Admits Making False Statements to FBI

Diane A. Wade
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Robert Mueller Investigation: Michael Flynn Admits Making False Statements to FBI

President Donald Trump’s former national security adviser Michael Flynn has pleaded guilty to making false statements to the FBI about meetings with the Russian ambassador weeks before Trump became president.

The charges were brought by Special Counsel Robert Mueller, as part of his inquiry into alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 US election.

Michael Flynn is the most senior member of the administration to be indicted.

He also revealed he was co-operating with Robert Mueller’s inquiry.

Significantly, a statement made by Michael Flynn to prosecutors appears to implicate a more senior, though unnamed, Trump team official – indicating the direction in which Robert Mueller’s investigation may be heading.

Media outlets, including NBC News, Bloomberg and the Washington Post, said the senior official is Jared Kushner – Donald Trump’s adviser and son-in-law.

Appearing in a federal court in Washington DC, Michael Flynn admitted to one count of knowingly making “false, fictitious and fraudulent statements”.

According to an AFP reporter in court, the judge accepted Michael Flynn’s guilty plea and said he would not face trial.

Michael Flynn then issued a statement in which he said: “I recognize that the actions I acknowledged in court today were wrong and, through my faith in God, I am working to set things right.”

He said his plea and co-operation deal “reflect a decision I made in the best interests of my family and of our country”.

Image source Wikimedia

Michael Flynn Invokes 5th Amendment and Won’t Comply with Senate Subpoena

Donald Trump Allegedly Asked James Comey to Drop Michael Flynn Inquiry

Michael Flynn Offered $15 Million to Help Remove Fethullah Gulen from US

Michael Flynn, a retired Army lieutenant-general, is unlikely to serve more than six months in prison.

The White House issued a statement saying that “nothing about the guilty plea or the charge implicates anyone other than Mr. Flynn”. A presidential appearance in front of reporters was then canceled.

As Michael Flynn was escorted from court by FBI agents, a handful of protesters shouted “criminal” and “lock him up”, echoing a chant he led against Hillary Clinton during the GOP convention in 2016.

Michael Flynn was forced to resign 23 days into his job in February, a month after he was questioned by the FBI for misleading the White House about meeting then Russian Ambassador Sergei Kislyak during the transition period, before Donald Trump took office.

Then, just over a week ago, media said his legal team had told the president’s lawyers they could no longer discuss the case, prompting suggestions that he had begun co-operating with prosecutors.

It is not clear why he did not tell the truth to investigators. However, it is illegal for a private US citizen, as Michael Flynn was during the transition, to conduct foreign affairs without the permission or involvement of the US government.

Tesla Activates World’s Largest Lithium Ion Battery in South Australia

James J. Williams
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Tesla Activates World’s Largest Lithium Ion Battery in South Australia

Tesla’s mega-battery has begun dispensing power into an electricity grid in South Australia.

The world’s largest lithium ion battery was officially activated on December 1.

The 100-megawatt battery had in fact provided some power since November 30 due to demand caused by local hot weather.

South Australia has been crippled by electricity problems in recent times.

Tesla founder Elon Musk famously vowed to build the battery within 100 days – a promise that was fulfilled.

South Australian Premier Jay Weatherill said on December 1: “This is history in the making.”

Image source Flickr

Elon Musk and Tesla to Build World’s Biggest Lithium Ion Battery in South Australia

The battery would prevent a repeat of a notorious incident last year where the entire South Australia lost power, Jay Weatherill said.

Elon Musk has described it as three times more powerful than the world’s next biggest battery.

The idea began when Elon Musk was asked on Twitter if he was serious about helping to resolve South Australia’s electricity woes.

Tesla boss said he was – adding that if the battery wasn’t built within 100 days, South Australia would receive it for free.

The countdown began on September 30 after a plan was approved by the state government and regulators. Tesla finished the battery in about 60 days.

Located near Jamestown, about 125 miles north of Adelaide, the battery is connected to a wind farm run by French energy company Neoen.

When fully charged, the battery can power up to 30,000 homes for an hour. However, it will mostly be used to support and stabilize existing electricity supplies.

The mega-battery is comprised of a grid system that runs on the same technology that powers Tesla’s cars.

In a statement, Tesla said the completion of the battery “shows that a sustainable, effective energy solution is possible”.

The Unknown Talents of Movie Stars

Dana R
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The Unknown Talents of Movie Stars

action-air-aircraft

Image Credit: Pexels

We all know that film stars are extremely talented actors and actresses, but did you know that some of them have extraordinary unknown talent. Some of their talents get showcased on screen, but many haven’t had that opportunity yet. Here are some such movie stars and their hidden talents.

Colin Farrell

Colin Farrell has been in so many movies that it is easy to lose count. He plays the major antagonist in Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them as well as fantastic movies like True Detective and Seven Psychopaths. However, did you know that before he was a major Hollywood actor, he earned his living teaching country line dancing? When he lived in Dublin, Ireland Colin Farrell was an expert in this area, and hopefully, there will be a film in the future that lets him stretch his dancing legs. You can see him dancing – here.

Bruce Willis

Bruce Willis is one of the best known and most loved action adventure actors of all time. From Die Hard to RED, Bruce Willis is an action film extraordinaire. A lot of his films are people’s favorite films of all time. Would it surprise you to learn that Bruce Willis started his performance career playing the harmonica, then? He played it for an R&B band called Loose Goose. Although, even after all these years and countless fantastic blockbuster films, Bruce Willis still plays that same instrument and even tours with his band The Accelerators. He is a man of many talents both on and off screen. You can see him playing it – here.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie is one of the best-known actresses in the world. She has been a model, actress and humanitarian throughout her career and doesn’t look to be stopping anytime soon. She is known for films like Wanted, Tomb Raider and Maleficent. She also lent her voice to the Kung Fu Panda Trilogy as well as many other films. However, did you know that this multitalented actress can also pilot an aircraft? Well, she can. She is big aviation enthusiast and joins the ranks of fellow female actress with a love for flying. You can read about more such actresses – here.

Harrison Ford

Harrison Ford has been in some of the most loved and well-received films in Hollywood history. He played the fan favorite Han Solo in the original Stars Trilogy (and Episode 7: The Force Awakens), and he also played Indiana Jones through 3 excellent films and one slightly more questionable instalment. Harrison Ford has also been in a wealth of other movies such as Blade Runner and its sequel as well as many others. Much like Angelina Jolie he is an avid aviation enthusiast and can fly helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. There have even been instances where he as loaned his piloting skills to the local emergency services and helped in rescuing stranded hikers. Harrison Ford really is a man of many talents, and it almost makes getting stranded worth it if you get saved by Harrison Ford flying a helicopter.

Going Green: How To Be Eco-Friendly In The Construction Business

Dana R
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Going Green: How To Be Eco-Friendly In The Construction Business

eco
(image)

The construction industry faces many challenges. Recently, there has been a widespread labour shortage. Issues around health and safety are often taken on by the media. Then, and relevantly for this article, there are the struggles to keep up to date with an ecologically aware society.

Constantly under fire for the spread of pollution through crude oils and carbon emissions through their production methods, leaders within the industry are now sitting up and taking notice. Green initiatives are being put in place, with recyclable methods being practised in the construction process and an increased use of energy-efficient technology happening in the field. So, there is hope, and in an industry that gives so much to the economy, it is good to see changes being made when it comes to the environment.

Should you work in the construction industry, it is important you play your part in becoming ecologically aware. Not only will you be doing your bit to save the planet, but you will also satisfy your customers. If you fall behind with your archaic practices and technology, you will struggle to stay in business, as eco-friendly customers will no longer stand for it. In this article, we will give you some tips on how you can stay with the times while benefitting the environment as you go to work.

 

Ten ways to go green

  1. Rather than outsourcing new material, recycle materials that have been used in other construction jobs.

  2. Use materials that are non-toxic, renewable and safe for the environment. Wood is perfect, while alloys and metals are not because they are not biodegradable.

  3.  Reduce fuel emissions by sourcing materials from local sources, instead of further afield.

  4.  Reduce fuel emissions by reducing the amount of traffic your firm uses. Renting trucks from Flex Fleet Rental makes more sense than buying (or using) older vehicles, as they can be used only when you need them, and are more eco-efficient when it comes to fuel emissions.

  5.  When working with other contractors and suppliers, ensure they are also following good practices. If they don’t use sustainable materials, or they are wasteful with the materials they use, ditch them and go elsewhere.

  6.  Don’t rely on old machinery as it may not be energy or eco-efficient. Shop around for the latest in green machinery, as the advanced tech should adhere to the latest standards required by the government.

  7.  With regards to the machinery you use, don’t overuse or overwork them. Keeping a machine running unnecessarily will incur a greater cost in fuel and the added risk of pollution. Hybrid motor technologies have been designed to solve this issue.

  8.  When it comes to the structure of the building being worked on, do your bit to remain green on the exterior and interior. For example, consider using solar energy designs, adding water filtration systems, and adding low-energy-lighting instead of regular, energy-wasting bulbs.

  9.  Ensure everybody on your team is as ecologically aware as you. With training and guidance, ensure everybody is instructed to follow the green principles that we are advocating on this list.

  10. Work in the daytime when there is natural light. Not only is this safer than working at night, but it also cuts down on the amount of artificial lighting that will be used to enhance your workspace.


Final word

By following these simple practices, not only will your business will benefit the environment, but you will garner a good reputation for yourself. Being ecologically conscious means you will save money too, so while you shouldn’t need further incentive to go green, you are benefitting yourself also.

Jay-Z Explains Why He Cheated on Beyonce

Lisa.Felice
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Jay-Z Explains Why He Cheated on Beyonce

In an interview about his life, Jay-Z has admitted for the first time that he cheated on Beyonce.

The musician told The New York Times Style Magazine that he had built up walls due to issues from his childhood, which led to him shutting down and infidelity.

Jay-Z said: “The hardest thing is seeing pain on someone’s face that you caused, and then have to deal with yourself.”

Beyonce and her husband had both hinted about it in their music.

“You have to survive,” Jay-Z said.

“So you go into survival mode, and when you go into survival mode, what happens? You shut down all emotions.

“So, even with women, you gonna shut down emotionally, so you can’t connect. In my case, like, it’s deep. And then all the things happen from there: infidelity.”

Photo Getty Images

Jay Z launches artist-friendly streaming site Tidal

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Jay-Z hinted that they could have got divorced but he had had therapy to help him deal with his past experiences.

“You know, most people walk away, and, like, divorce rate is like 50% or something ’cause most people can’t see themselves.”

In 2013, rumors came out that the rapper had been cheating and then there was #elevatorgate when Solange Knowles attacked him, while sister Beyonce stayed silent.

More recently Jay-Z’s album, 4:44, alluded to him being unfaithful.

The rapper wrote: “Look, I apologize/Often womanize/Took for my child to be born to see through a woman’s eyes.”

A year before 4:44 came out, Beyonce sang about “Becky with good hair” on her album Lemonade.

“He only want me when I’m not there/He better call Becky with the good hair.”

Jay-Z and Beyonce had planned to do a joint album but ended up doing solo records instead.

“We were using our art almost like a therapy session. And we started making music together. And then the music she was making at that time was further along.

“So, her album came out as opposed to the joint album that we were working on.”

The rapper also talked about his relationship with Kanye West.

“I [talked to] Kanye the other day, just to tell him, like, he’s my brother. I love Kanye. I do. It’s a complicated relationship with us.”

Jay-Z admitted that it hadn’t always been an easy relationship.

Kanye West reportedly left Jay-Z’s streaming service, Tidal, over a money dispute and he also ranted about him during a concert.

“I’m sure he feels that I’ve done things to him as well. I’m not a perfect human being by no stretch.

“Hopefully when we’re 89, we look at this six months or whatever time and we laugh at that.”

US Urges World to Cut Diplomatic and Trade Ties with North Korea

Roy Siemens
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0
US Urges World to Cut Diplomatic and Trade Ties with North Korea

The US has urged the world to cut diplomatic and trade ties with North Korea following its latest ballistic missile test.

Speaking at the UN Security Council, US envoy Nikki Haley said President Donald Trump had asked his Chinese counterpart to cut off oil supplies to Pyongyang.

Nikki Haley said the US did not seek conflict but that North Korea’s regime would be “utterly destroyed” if war broke out.

The warning came after North Korea tested its first missile in two months.

North Korea said the missile fired on November 29, which it said reached an altitude of about 2,780 miles – more than 10 times the height of the International Space Station – carried a warhead capable of re-entering the Earth’s atmosphere.

The claim was not proven and experts have cast doubt on North Korea’s ability to master such technology.

Image source Wikimedia

North Korea Fires New Ballistic Missile

US Declares North Korea A State Sponsor of Terrorism

However, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un called the launch “impeccable” and a “breakthrough”.

The test – one of several this year – has been condemned by the international community and the UN Security Council called an emergency meeting.

Nikki Haley warned that “continued acts of aggression” were only serving to further destabilize the region.

Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said sanctions were exhausted.

He told reporters: “The Americans should explain to all of us what they are trying to do – if they want to find a pretext for destroying North Korea they should come clean about it, and the American leadership should confirm it.”

Earlier the Russian UN ambassador said North Korea should stop its missile and nuclear tests but also called on Washington to cancel military exercises with South Korea planned for December as it would “inflame an already explosive situation”.

China also suggested North Korea should stop the tests in return for a halt to US military exercises – a proposal Washington has rejected in the past.

Nikki Haley said on November 29: “We need China to do more.

“President Trump called President Xi this morning and told him that we’ve come to the point where China must cut off the oil for North Korea.

“We know the main driver of its nuclear production is oil,” she said. “The major supplier of that oil is China.”

China is a historic ally and North Korea’s most important trading partner and Pyongyang is thought to be dependent on China for much of its oil supplies.

Also in the day, the White House said that President Trump spoke to his counterpart, Xi Jinping, by phone, urging him to “use all available levers to convince North Korea to end its provocations and return to the path of denuclearization”.

Donald Trump tweeted: “Just spoke to President XI JINPING of China concerning the provocative actions of North Korea. Additional major sanctions will be imposed on North Korea today. This situation will be handled!”

Speaking in Missouri, President Trump derided Kim Jong-un, describing him as a “sick puppy” and “little rocket man”.

Xi Jinping responded by telling Donald Trump it was Beijing’s “unswerving goal to maintain peace and stability in north-east Asia and denuclearize the Korean peninsula”, Chinese news agency Xinhua reported.

Experts say the height reached by the inter-continental ballistic missile (ICBM) indicates the US could be within range, although North Korea is yet to prove it has reached its aim of miniaturizing a nuclear warhead.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VZZ–ILpto

President Donald Trump Re-Tweets Britain First’s Controversial Videos

Diane A. Wade
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0
President Donald Trump Re-Tweets Britain First’s Controversial Videos

President Donald Trump has re-tweeted three controversial videos from British far-right group Britain First.

The first tweet from Jayda Fransen, the deputy leader of Britain First, claims to show a Muslim migrant attacking a man on crutches.

It was followed by two more videos of people Jayda Fransen claims to be Muslim.

Responding to President Trump’s posts, UK PM Theresa May’s official spokesman said it was “wrong for the president to have done this”.

White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said PM Theresa May and other world leaders knew that “these are real threats that we have to talk about”.

“Whether it’s a real video, the threat is real,” Sarah Sanders said.

“I think it’s important to talk about national security and national security threats. The president sees different things to be national security threats, and he sees having strong borders as being one of the things that helps protect people in this country from some real threats that we face.”

President Donald Trump Claims He Rejected Time Magazine’s Person of the Year Offer

Britain First was founded in 2011 by former members of the far-right British National Party (BNP).

The far-right group has grabbed attention on social media with controversial posts about what they deem “the Islamification of the UK”.

The group has put up members to run in European elections and by-elections on anti-immigration and anti-abortion policies, but has not secured any seats.

Britain First also contested the most recent London mayoral election, receiving 1.2% of the vote.

The original video was shared by commentator Ann Coulter who Donald Trump follows.

Jayda Fransen has more than 52,000 followers on Twitter.

She responded enthusiastically to President Trump sharing her tweets.

Jayda Fransen posted on her account: “Donald Trump himself has retweeted these videos and has around 44 million followers!”

“God bless you Trump! God bless America!” she added.

The message was also shared on Britain First’s Twitter account.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1LVnX9RV_g

#MeToo: Matt Lauer Fired from NBC News over Assault Allegations

Lisa.Felice
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0
#MeToo: Matt Lauer Fired from NBC News over Assault Allegations

NBC’s The Today Show host Matt Lauer has been fired by the network over an allegation of inappropriate behavior.

NBC said: “On Monday night, we received a detailed complaint from a colleague about inappropriate s**ual behavior in the workplace by Matt Lauer.

“As a result, we’ve decided to terminate his employment.”

Matt Lauer co-hosts The Today Show. NBC said it had “reason to believe this may not have been an isolated incident”.

NBC News chairman Andy Lack said while it was the first complaint about Matt Lauer’s behavior in his time there, more than 20 years, it represented a “clear violation of our company’s standards”.

In 2016, Matt Lauer signed a new contract with the network worth a reported $20 million per year.

As well as fronting the morning show, he was chosen to moderate an election debate between Donald Trump and rival Hillary Clinton.

Matt Lauer has conducted high-profile interviews, such as the one in which Charlie Sheen confirmed he is living with HIV in 2015.

Image source Wikimedia

#MeToo: John Conyers Steps Down from House Judiciary Committee amid Harassment Accusations

#MeToo: Charlie Rose Suspended by Several TV Networks Following Harassment Allegations

#MeToo: Former USA Gymnastics Doctor Larry Nassar Pleads Guilty to Seven Charges of Assault

In an emotional interview, Today co-hosts Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb said they were “heartbroken”.

“As I’m sure you can imagine we are devastated and are still processing all of this,” Savannah Guthrie said.

“I’m heartbroken for Matt – he is my dear, dear friend and my partner and he has been loved by many people here.

“And I’m heartbroken for the brave colleague who came forward to tell her story and any other women who have their own stories to tell.”

Savannah Guthrie added: “This reckoning that so many organizations have been going through is important, it’s long overdue and it must result in workplaces where all women – all people – feel safe and respected.”

Meanwhile, President Donald Trump commented on Twitter: “Wow, Matt Lauer was just fired from NBC for “inappropriate s**ual behavior in the workplace.” But when will the top executives at NBC & Comcast be fired for putting out so much Fake News. Check out Andy Lack’s past!”

Matt Lauer’s departure comes two weeks after NBC executive Matt Zimmerman, who was reported to have worked closely with Lauer, was fired after allegations of inappropriate behavior.

Last week, CBS fired Charlie Rose, one of its leading anchors, amid allegations of assault. In April, Fox News fired its best-known presenter, Bill O’Reilly.

Bali Volcano: Flights Resume After Three Days of Disruption

Nancy Clayson
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0
Bali Volcano: Flights Resume After Three Days of Disruption

According to Indonesian officials, flights have resumed from the international airport in Bali after three days of disruption caused by a volcanic ash cloud.

Layers of ash settled on houses and fields on the Indonesian island after an eruption of Mount Agung.

Up to 100,000 people were ordered to evacuate the vicinity and thousands of tourists have been stranded.

Bali airport might have to close again if the wind changed direction, officials said.

Not all local people have left – some have insisted on waiting until lava from the crater heads their way.

The massive plumes of dark ash from Mount Agung were seen reaching as high as 2 miles above its rumbling summit. It began erupting last week.

Officials raised the alert to the highest level on November 27, fearing an imminent major eruption.

They said that although the airport reopened from 15:00 local time, it remained necessary constantly to monitor the situation on the ground.

Image source Wikimedia

Indonesia: Bali Volcano Eruption Disrupts Flights

The authorities have also warned tourists that they are likely to face long waits before returning home because of a huge backlog of flights.

Meanwhile Australian PM Malcolm Turnbull has said that his government is working to help thousands of Australian tourists stranded on Bali to return home. It is estimated that Australians comprise more than 25% of tourists in Indonesia.

Denpasar airport is used by millions of visitors each year and is the main entry point into Bali.

Airport spokesman Ari Ahsanurrohim said more than 440 flights were canceled on November 28, affecting nearly 60,000 passengers. A similar number of people were affected on November 27.

Volcanic ash can damage aeroplane engines or even causes them to fail, and also clogs fuel and cooling systems. Pilot visibility can also be hampered.

The airport on neighboring Lombok island reopened earlier, officials say.

The volcano is about 43 miles from the popular tourist areas of Kuta and Seminyak.

On November 29, the volcano was still emitting thick ash clouds in addition to streams of rock mixed with water known as lahar which have also been spotted flowing out of the mountain.

Officials have told everyone living in a 6 miles exclusion zone around the volcano to evacuate.

So far, only 29,000 people have moved to shelters, while others have fled to nearby places like Lombok.

Family Law News: Prenups are on the Rise for Millennials

Cate Palmer
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Family Law News: Prenups are on the Rise for Millennials

Those that belong to Generation Y are well known by now to enter marriage arrangements later than previous generations. But what wasn’t so obvious until recently is that more and more millennials are requesting prenuptial agreements in order to marry.

While we can all agree that prenups aren’t the most fun thing you can talk about when you’re in love with somebody, they can actually help couples in a number of ways. Another reason is that couples are usually more open towards each other in terms of s**uality and freedom, so both parties are aware things may change in the future. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the reasons why prenuptial agreements are on the rise.

Prenups Can Save a Lot of Money During a Divorce

While we all know that weddings can be extremely expensive, sometimes divorces can hit a wallet even more so. Two people that used to share a home, food, and bills now all of the sudden have to pay everything times two. And right at that moment they also need to pay thousands of dollars in litigation costs, lawyers, or any other costs that a divorce might lead to.

While it’s fair to say that prenuptial agreements always serve one side more so than the other, they will also ensure that the divorce process is simple and cheaper than a normal one. That’s because most of the things are already agreed on before marriage, so the divorce process can be just a formality.

Remarrying

If one of the sides is entering a second marriage, their legal and financial concerns may be completely different this time around. There could be children from the first marriage, potential alimony, or any other type of financial support that you may be providing or receiving. There’s also the problem of having two families – which complicates things in case you pass away and those assets need to be distributed. A prenup will ensure that your assets are distributed exactly the way you want them to, so neither your first nor second family are cut off.

Wanting to Quit a Job and Focus on Raising Children

This one’s a fairly common reason since in some marriages one parent is required to quit their job and take care of the kids. In that case, it would be unfair for assets of the parent that is providing for their family to remain their own after a divorce, which is why people enter a prenuptial agreement on this.

It can be extremely difficult to get a job after not working for several years and the prenup will ensure that the financial burden of raising kids is shared fairly by both side. While family law specialists can help with the custody arrangements and children relocation, prenups are there to ensure that each of the spouses gets what they wanted in the first place.

Business Related Issues

If one of the spouses is a business owner, the other spouse may very well end up with half of the business after the dissolution of marriage even if they’re in no way involved in it. Since millennial generation is especially keen on starting small businesses, this is one of the main reasons why there’s a rise in these kinds of agreements before marriage.

The fact is, having a divorced couple run a business together can be extremely difficult, which is why most other people involved in the business may be against this. A prenup will help avoid any potential conflicts or misunderstanding when it comes to business-related issues.  

Having a conversation about a prenup can be a difficult thing for spouses sometimes. If one’s side wants an agreement and the other one doesn’t – there can be consequences that can even affect if they get married at all. However, in certain situations prenup can protect the intellectual and financial property of both spouses, ensuring they’re not at risk of losing anything if they ever want to divorce. Divorce is a tough period for any couple out there already, so instead of making it even tougher, millennials go for the best option for them – lowering risk before they even get to that point.

Why Meghan Markle Won’t Become a Princess?

Lisa.Felice
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0
Why Meghan Markle Won’t Become a Princess?

Prince Harry’s future wife, Meghan Markle, will not be known as Princess Meghan when she ties the knot with him in May 2018.

By the standards of British royal protocol, the American actress lacks “royal blood”.

That means that she cannot call herself Princess Meghan.

The arcane rules mean that Meghan Markle will be compelled to follow the example of her future sister-in-law, Kate Middleton.

When Kate Middleton married Prince William in 2011, she automatically became Her Royal Highness, Princess William of Wales. The overwhelming likelihood is that Meghan Markle will in turn become HRH Princess Harry of Wales.

Kate Middleton was not of royal blood, and what applies to her will also apply in the case of Meghan Markle.

Royal blood meant that Queen Elizabeth’s late sister Margaret was entitled to call herself Princess Margaret. Likewise the Queen’s daughter is Princess Anne and her granddaughters are Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie.

Image source Wikimedia

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

Prince Harry Engaged to Meghan Markle. Royal Wedding in 2018

Royal blood made them princesses in their own right.

Sarah Ferguson was never Princess Sarah and Sophie Rhys-Jones – the wife of Prince Edward – is not Princess Sophie.

The rules also meant that Lady Diana Spencer was never officially Princess Diana. She was the Princess of Wales and, after her divorce from Prince Charles, she was Diana, Princess of Wales.

From the point of view of Buckingham Palace, handy titles or “handles” are required for the members of the family who occupy prestigious but somewhat peripheral roles to the main business of monarchy.

Queen Elizabeth’s first cousins are, respectively, the Dukes of Gloucester and Kent, and when her disgraced uncle abandoned the throne to marry an American divorcee in 1936, he became the Duke of Windsor.

Such ducal titles are frequently bestowed upon marriage precisely because they give the new entrant to the family a grand-sounding title without making them princesses or princes in their own right.

In 1986, when Prince Andrew married Sarah Ferguson, the Queen made him Duke of York, thus she became the Duchess of York – a title she continues to hold despite her divorce.

Similarly, when Prince Edward married Sophie Rhys-Jones, he became the Earl of Wessex and his new wife the Countess of Wessex.

It could be that the Queen makes the same kind of move in the cases of Kate and Meghan, and dusts off a long-defunct royal dukedom – Sussex (the favorite for Harry and Meghan), Albany and Clarence are among the vacant ones.

However, as with many things connected to British royal protocol, there is always an exception to the rule – Queen Elizabeth’s husband Philip married into the royal family, and yet he is a prince.

When Philip married the then Princess Elizabeth in 1947, the then British King, George VI, created him “Duke of Edinburgh”.

He only became Prince Philip in February 1957 when the Queen “accorded him the style and title of a Prince of the United Kingdom”.

The Queen could also make both Kate and Meghan princesses in their own right – but such are the rigid traditions surrounding this issue that Britain’s first Princess Meghan is likely to be some time away.

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

Lisa.Felice
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0
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Wedding to Be Held at Windsor Castle in May 2018

Prince Harry and his fiancée Meghan Markle will marry at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, in May 2018, Kensington Palace has announced.

The Royal Family will pay for the wedding, including the service, music, flowers and reception – the date will be announced later.

Meghan Markle, 36, a Protestant, will be baptized into the Church of England and confirmed before the wedding.

A spokesman for Prince Harry said the pair would make sure the wedding “reflects who they are as a couple”.

Jason Knauf said Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were “leading the planning process for all aspects of the wedding” and were working through ideas on how members of the public could “feel part of the celebrations”.

“This wedding, like all weddings, will be a moment of fun and joy that will reflect the characters of the bride and groom,” he added.

Image source Getty Image

Prince Harry Engaged to Meghan Markle. Royal Wedding in 2018

Prince Harry Confirms Meghan Markle Is His Girlfriend

Jason Knauf described Windsor as a “very special place” for the couple, saying they had spent time there together since meeting in July 2016.

He also revealed that Meghan Markle intends to become a British citizen and will work towards it in the coming years.

St George’s Chapel was the venue for a service of prayer and dedication after Prince Harry’s father, Prince Charles, married the Duchess of Cornwall at the Windsor Guildhall in 2005.

It was also chosen for the wedding of Prince Harry’s cousin, Peter Phillips, and Autumn Kelly in 2008, and the Earl and Countess of Wessex in 1999.

Prince Harry, 33, who is fifth in line to the UK’s throne, and Meghan Markle announced their engagement on November 27.

Jason Knauf said it was “an incredibly happy day” for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and they were “overwhelmed by support from the UK and around the world”.

North Korea Fires New Ballistic Missile

Roy Siemens
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North Korea Fires New Ballistic Missile

North Korea has launched a new ballistic missile, the latest in a series of launches that have raised tensions with its neighbors and the US.

According to the Pentagon, it was an intercontinental ballistic missile that flew for about 620 miles and fell into the Sea of Japan.

South Korean news agency Yonhap said that the missile was launched from Pyongsong, South Pyongan province.

Pyongyang’s last ballistic missile test was in September.

That came days after North Korea had conducted its sixth – and largest – nuclear test.

The US said the latest launch happened at about 03:30 local time.

Japan’s government said the missile travelled for about 50 minutes but did not fly over Japan, as some have done in the past.

US Declares North Korea A State Sponsor of Terrorism

President Donald Trump Urges North Korea to Discuss Giving Up Nuclear Weapons

President Donald Trump Urges North Korea to Discuss Giving Up Nuclear Weapons

President Donald Trump was briefed while the missile was still in the air, the White House has said. Afterwards the president said: “We will take care of it.”

South Korea’s military said it had responded to the launch with a missile exercise of its own.

North Korea is thought to be focusing efforts on building long-range missiles with the potential of reaching the mainland continental US.

North Korean officials said the first of the longer-range missiles it tested in July could hit “any part of the world”, but the US military called it an intermediate-range missile instead.

Its last nuclear test reportedly involved a miniaturized hydrogen bomb that could be loaded on to a long-range missile, raising tensions with the US even further.

Last week, President Donald Trump announced that the US was re-designating North Korea a state sponsor of terrorism because of its missile and nuclear program.

The US later imposed fresh sanctions against North Korea. The measures targeted North Korean shipping operations and Chinese companies that traded with Pyongyang.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThXg-nYmZi4

Uhuru Kenyatta Inaugurated for a Second Term as Kenya’s President

Diane A. Wade
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Uhuru Kenyatta Inaugurated for a Second Term as Kenya’s President

Uhuru Kenyatta has been inaugurated for a second term as Kenya’s president at a ceremony in the capital, Nairobi, boycotted by the opposition.

The ceremony took place in a packed stadium with police driving back other Kenyatta supporters trying to get in without seats.

Riot police were also deployed in another part of Nairobi to stop a rally by opposition supporters.

Opposition leader Raila Odinga mocked Uhuru Kenyatta’s “coronation”.

Raila Odinga boycotted the re-run of the presidential poll last month and says Uhuru Kenyatta was not elected legitimately.

Uhuru Kenyatta was officially re-elected with 98% of the vote on October 26 but just under 39% of voters turned out.

The original election on August 8 was held over again after being annulled by the Supreme Court on grounds of irregularities.

Chief Justice David Maraga said the August election had not been “conducted in accordance with the constitution” and declared it “invalid, null and void”.

The Supreme Court ruled that the result had been “neither transparent nor verifiable”.

Uhuru Kenyatta – Image source Wikimedia

Kenya Elections 2017: Re-Run Presidential Election Boycotted by Main Opposition

Kenya Elections 2017: Raila Odinga Pull Out of Election Re-Run

Kenya Presidential Election Annulled by Supreme Court

However, Raila Odinga urged his supporters to boycott the second vote because he said no reforms had been made to the electoral commission since the original poll.

Correspondents say the election dispute has left Kenya deeply divided.

About 50 people are reported to have been killed in violence since the August ballot.

Raila Odinga had promised to hold a “memorial rally” in another part of Nairobi to honor those killed during the four months of political upheaval since the August vote.

According to the opposition leader, Uhura Kenyatta was elected by “just a small section of the country”.

There were scenes of chaos outside Nairobi’s Kasarani sports stadium when people without seats tried to rush in and were driven back by police with tear gas, and on horseback.

Big screens had been promised so that tens of thousands of people could watch the ceremony from outside the stadium but no screens were provided, AFP reports.

Inside the stadium itself, foreign dignitaries took up their seats in a calm, good-humored atmosphere.

Spectators were treated to musical performances and a military parade.

Ethiopian PM Hailemariam Desalegn and Rwandan President Paul Kagame are among a number of African leaders attending. Israel’s PM Benjamin Netanyahu is also expected in Kenya’s capital but for an event later in the presidential palace, the Jerusalem Post reports.

Do You Know Who Makes Your E-Cigarette?

Dana R
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Do You Know Who Makes Your E-Cigarette?

If you’re a smoker or you take an interest in health news, you’ve probably come across articles about vaping. Vaping is often branded as a safer alternative to smoking and an effective means to help people quit, but do you know where your e-cig comes from?

It’s understandable to assume that tobacco companies are competing against firms that produce e-cigarettes, but what if those tobacco giants were actually responsible for making your electronic cigarette? With a growing number of brands available, it’s interesting to have a closer look at who’s who in the vaping world. Online research suggests that the vast majority of vaping brands (80 percent) are owned by independent companies. However, you may be surprised to hear that some of the leading brands actually belong to tobacco companies, many of which are members of the Big Tobacco family. As the infographic confirms, nine brands were found to belong to tobacco businesses with five linked to tobacco-free firms. Some of the most high-profile brands on sale are associated with companies like British American Tobacco, Japan Tobacco International, Imperial Brands plc and Philip Morris International. Notably, these companies own Nicocigs, Blu, 10 Motives, V2 and Vype. If you turn your back on cigarettes, you may think that you’re not lining the pockets of industry monopolists any longer, but this infographic would suggest otherwise. It seems that many of the dominant forces have already bitten into the vaping market and are profiting from smokers, as well as those who are trying to give up.


Infographic design by Who Owns All The Vaping Brands

The Technology Behind Pleasure Yachts and Support Vessels

Nancy Clayson
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The Technology Behind Pleasure Yachts and Support Vessels

Offshore support vessels are as integral to any shipping operation as the main ships or vessels themselves. They provide many amenities and advantages, and they are very important in different aspects of the shipping industry. There are many new technologies that have developed the role of the offshore support vessel and have thus made operational processes in water easier and more efficient.

There are a variety of offshore support vessels; namely, these are platform supply vessels, anchor handling tug vessels, accommodation ships, and seismic vessels.

There is a lot of technology that goes together with the development of the specialized vessels and yachts with new classes being built each year. The good intervention vessel is an example of this. “Being just recently introduced, its job is to support oil operations and engage in repair work for oil recovery – which is an important aspect of the oil industry?” says Brian from yacht registration malta maritime hub.

Over the past decade, the overall trend in the development of offshore support vessels has been in the direction of newer sophisticated vehicles capable of handling complicated operations even in the most treacherous waters. They are also being built to be bigger and more powerful than ever before.

Goodbye Smaller and Older Vessels?

The industry is still controlled by older vessels that are smaller than their newer counterparts. However, we have been seeing trends in offshore support vessels with better bollard pull, better propulsion systems resulting in faster ships and winches that can really handle heavier loads.

In fact, offshore support vessels have become bigger over time says Albert, the agent at HMS Broker.  For examples, accommodation barges that are primarily used to accommodate crewmembers can now hold up to 500 crewmembers, this also results in an increased crane size and better pipe laying capabilities. Crane barges are also the beneficiary of these new improvements as they can now support heavier loads.

Anchor Handling Tug Supply boats and Anchor Handling Tugs are benefitting from the latest advancements in their powerhouses and better dynamic positioning capabilities. The old-fashioned harbor tug is now built to be bigger with no compromise in maneuverability.

Newer Platform Supply Vessels are now built with firefighting capabilities making the transport of dry and wet cargo for platforms considerably safer than they used to be. This is the same story for dive support vessels that handle subsea repair and maintenance activities. Not only do they have all the new functionalities of the above, but also offer more room for a larger accommodation of crewmembers.

Utility vessels, on the other hand, are now much more powerfully agile.  These vessels are usually utilized to support constructions projects being staged offshore and move around necessary equipment. Newer models are now built with better bhp resulting in better performance on the water.

The Importance of the Advancements and OSVs

There is a lot of technology that goes behind every single sea operation and offshore support vessels play a critical part. They assist in transportation, providing adequate supplies and providing the necessary requirements a mission needs.

It is no surprise that advancements from better navigation to better capabilities are growing in the offshore supply vessel industry. Oil exploration and the various necessities that come with it are also fueling the development of vessels that can better support these expeditions.

What Does the Future Hold?

It seems like the trend towards more technologically advances offshore support vessels will be constantly on the rise with advancements in powerhouses and other abilities. They are being built to be bigger, much more advanced and dynamically more suitable to the multitude of conditions that can arise during any sea operation.  Nowadays we are not just talking about who can build more powerful winches. The market for OSVs being built, bought or chartered is definitely expanding.

We should expect to see bigger and better support vessels that can handle anything whilst being surprisingly quick and nimble enough to maneuver the grueling life on the water.

Great Tips For New Homeowners

Dana R
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Great Tips For New Homeowners

Owning a new home is a big achievement but it comes with many responsibilities. That’s why you need to be ready to deal with anything that comes your way. Here are some tips that will ease the transition as you move into your new property:

Homeowners

Negotiate Buyer’s Terms

No house is perfect, use this as you work with the sellers to reach a good buying agreement, and try to include some much-needed improvements in your final offer: having the carpets cleaned professionally, replacing the old water heater or fixing old plumbing. According to Plumbing Fix, having the plumbing system fixed will increase the value of any home, so make sure to add this to your list.

The seller might lower the price when presented with all the issues that need to be addressed. Moreover, you’ll already have a list of things you need to fix before you move into the house.

Plan Your Painting

If you have access to the house before moving in, take advantage of that period to paint it. However, if you cannot start painting before you move in, prioritize which rooms to paint first. Keep these rooms as empty as possible to make the job easier.

Color Coordinate The Packing

Use colorful masking tape or stickers to match the moving boxes with their final destinations. For instance, blue can be used to refer to the kitchen and yellow can refer to the living area. Not only does this help you on your move-in day but it will also come in handy during unpacking. Also, label the contents of each box with a permanent marker to ensure movers do not break any fragile items during loading, transit and unloading.

Pack For Vacation

Packing a small duffel bag for each member of the family as if you are going on vacation is not a bad idea. Include toiletries, a change of clothes, and a towel to make your first day in the new house task free. Moreover, packing disposable dinnerware, phone chargers, and snacks in a separate bag will give you a chance to take a break on your move-in day.

Make A Prioritized List

As soon as you get into your new home, your mind will be filled with things that need to be done. To keep yourself from going crazy, write down a to-do list and assign tasks to every member of your family. You can then prioritize the list by labeling it with numbers.

The first priority should be dealing with cleaning and unpacking the essential items. The second most important task is unpacking the non-essentials, organization, and maintenance. If your house needs a few upgrades to make it livable, ensure you prioritize the hiring of professionals. Who do you need most; a plumber, an electrician, or a HVAC contractor?

Clean-Everything

Clean Everything

Before you start unpacking your boxes, take advantage of the empty space to clean every inch of the house. After you unpack everything and put it in its respective place, you will not be able to clean thoroughly. Areas such as cabinets and shelves will be harder to clean when you fill them with stuff.

If cleaning the whole house seems like a daunting task, consider hiring a professional cleaning company to do it for you.

Change The Locks

Even if the previous owner gave you his set of keys, you cannot be sure that nobody else has one. For your own peace of mind, consider changing the locks as soon as you move in.

Prince Harry Engaged to Meghan Markle. Royal Wedding in 2018

Lisa.Felice
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0
Prince Harry Engaged to Meghan Markle. Royal Wedding in 2018

Prince Harry has announced he is to marry girlfriend Meghan Markle.

The fifth in line to the UK’s throne will marry Meghan Markle in spring 2018.

The couple, who have been dating since the summer of 2016, smiled as they posed for photographs outside Kensington Palace in London, where they will live.

Prince Harry said it had been a romantic proposal, while Meghan Markle said she was “so very happy, thank you”.

Image source Getty Image

Prince Harry Confirms Meghan Markle Is His Girlfriend

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Make First Appearance Together at Invictus Games

Asked by a reporter when he knew Meghan Markle “was the one”, Prince Harry said: “The very first time we met.”

Kensington Palace said Meghan Markle’s engagement ring was designed by Prince Harry and features two diamonds which belonged to his late mother Princess Diana.

At the center of the ring is a diamond from Botswana, a country the couple has spent time together over the last year and a half. The band is made from gold.

Prince Harry, 33, and Meghan Markle, 36, made their first public appearance as a couple in September at the opening ceremony of the Invictus Games, a sporting event set up by the prince for injured, wounded and sick soldiers.

Their married home will be Prince Harry’s current residence, Nottingham Cottage, on the grounds of Kensington Palace – where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, with Prince George and Princess Charlotte, also have an apartment.

Time Inc Bought by Rival Meredith Corporation for $2.8 Billion

Clyde K. Valle
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Time Inc Bought by Rival Meredith Corporation for $2.8 Billion

Time Inc will be bought by rival media company Meredith Corporation for $2.8 billion.

The deal is backed by Charles and David Koch, who are known for supporting economically conservative causes.

Meredith Corporation is an Iowa-based publisher and broadcaster which has made two previous unsuccessful bids for Time.

Time has struggled with declining advertising revenues since it was spun off from Time Warner in 2014.

In addition to Time, the company also publishes People, Sports Illustrated, Entertainment Weekly and Fortune magazines.

In November, Time‘s Q3 revenue slipped 9.5% to $679 million, marking the sixth straight quarter the publisher fell short of analysts expectations.

Time‘s Chairman John Fahey said in a statement: “This all-cash transaction, and the immediate, certain value it provides, is in the best interests of the company and its shareholders.”

Meredith owns print publications Family Circle and Better Homes and Gardens as well as local TV stations across the US.

The company said the deal would give it nearly $700 million in digital advertising revenues and an “unmatched reach” to the valuable millennial customers, in their twenties and thirties.

Image source Flickr

President Donald Trump Claims He Rejected Time Magazine’s Person of the Year Offer

As part of the deal, Meredith has secured $650 million from the Koch brothers’ private equity arm, Koch Equity Development.

The billionaire brothers run Koch Industries, which is one of the world’s largest privately-owned companies, with interests ranging from pipelines to paper towels.

According to the Koch Industries website, “to millions of Americans, the words <<Koch brothers>> and <<political activism>> go hand-in-hand”.

Charles and David Koch have long championed economically conservative candidates and causes, but they have also pushed criminal justice reform and made large donations to the American Civil Liberties Union.

Their involvement in a media deal is likely to raise concerns that they will use their investment to wield influence.

A suggestion Charles and David Koch might attempt to acquire the Los Angeles Times and Chicago Tribune in 2013 sparked petitions and protests from readers concerned about their intentions.

However, Meredith said the Koch brothers won’t be given a seat on the board of Time Inc, and won’t have any managerial or editorial input.

According to Meredith, the acquisition of Time Inc will give its brands a readership of 135 million and paid circulation of nearly 60 million.

The company’s chief executive Stephen Lacy said in a statement: “We believe this acquisition represents a transformative and financially compelling growth opportunity for Meredith Corporation and will increase shareholder value over time.”

Even if Time Inc has struggled in recent years, its eponymous magazine still holds significant cultural influence.

An example is Time’s “person of the year” issue, which is now in its 90th year.

The issue recognizes the person who “for better or for worse… has done the most to influence the events of the year”.

Past recipients have included almost every sitting US president, Queen Elizabeth, Pope John Paul II and Mahatma Gandhi.

More controversially, Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler also both received the recognition.

#MeToo: John Conyers Steps Down from House Judiciary Committee amid Harassment Accusations

Diane A. Wade
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0
#MeToo: John Conyers Steps Down from House Judiciary Committee amid Harassment Accusations

Veteran congressman John Conyers says he is stepping aside as top Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee while harassment allegations are investigated.

The Michigan Democrat again denied the accusations, but said he was stepping down to clear his name.

A staff member alleges she was fired for refusing to “succumb to advances” from John Conyers.

A prominent civil rights leader, John Conyers first joined Congress in 1965.

The House Ethics Committee has launched an investigation into allegations of harassment and age discrimination involving staff.

On November 26, John Conyers, now 88, tweeted that he would like to remain as ranking member on the judiciary committee, but that he could not “in good conscience” allow the charges to “undermine” House colleagues.

Image source Wikimedia

#MeToo: Former USA Gymnastics Doctor Larry Nassar Pleads Guilty to Seven Charges of Assault

#MeToo: Charlie Rose Suspended by Several TV Networks Following Harassment Allegations

Senator Al Franken Accused of Assault

On November 21, it was reported that he had paid $27,000 in 2015 in exchange for the confidentiality of a former staff member who alleged she was fired for rejecting advances.

According to signed legal documents seen by Buzzfeed, John Conyers was also accused of repeatedly making advances and inappropriately touching other female employees.

However, he said that many of the allegations “were raised by documents reportedly paid for by a partisan alt-right blogger”.

Nancy Pelosi, the leader of the Democrats in the House of Representatives, said it was imperative that John Conyers received “due process”.

She called him “an icon” who had advanced women’s causes.

However, Nancy Pelosi tweeted in reference to John Conyers: “Zero tolerance means consequences… No matter how great an individual’s legacy, it is not a license for harassment.”

John Conyers is the last member of Congress to have been in office under President Lyndon Johnson in the 1960s.

Republican house speaker Paul Ryan has called the allegations “extremely troubling”.

He recently announced that all lawmakers and staff members must undergo anti-harassment training.

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