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Qatar Crisis to Be Discussed in Cairo

Four Gulf countries are to discuss the Qatar crisis, a month after they severed ties with the state.

The meeting of foreign ministers of Bahrain, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in Cairo comes on the day a deadline expires for Qatar to accept a list of demands or face further sanctions.

The demands to Qatar including shutting down the Al Jazeera network and scaling down ties with Iran.

Qatar has called the list of demands “unrealistic and not actionable”.

Qatar Crisis: Gulf Countries Extend Demands List Deadline by 48 Hours

The country is accused of destabilizing the region by supporting extremism and terrorism – which it denies.

Image source Wikimedia

Qatar has been under unprecedented diplomatic and economic sanctions from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the UAE and Bahrain.

The restrictions have caused turmoil in the oil- and gas-rich nation, which is dependent on imports to meet the basic needs of its population of 2.7 million.

Qatar Rejects List of Conditions for Lifting Sanctions

On July 3, Saudi Arabia and its allies gave Qatar an extra two days to accept their ultimatum for restoring relations, after an earlier 10-day deadline expired.

The authorities in Doha have responded to the demands – but no details have been publicly released. Qatar has said the demands break international law.

On July 4, Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman al-Thani described the demands as unrealistic.

“It’s not about terrorism, it’s talking about shutting down the freedom of speech,” he said.

The four Gulf countries accuse Qatar of harboring Islamist groups that they consider terrorist organizations – including the Muslim Brotherhood – and giving them a platform on the Al Jazeera channel, which is funded by the Qatari state.

Qatar denies the accusations.

As a result of the sanctions, Iran and Turkey have been increasingly supplying Qatar with food and other goods.

On July 4, Qatar announced plans for a steep rise in Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) production capacity over the coming years.

Qatar is the world’s leading producer of LNG.

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

Laptop Ban No Longer Applies on Emirates Flights to US

Emirates has announced the cabin ban on laptops no longer applies on its flights to the US.

In March, the US banned cabin laptops and other large electronic devices to and from eight mostly Muslim nations, fearing bombs may be concealed in them.

A spokeswoman for the airline said it had worked with US authorities to meet the requirements of the new security guidelines for all US bound flights.

Large Electronic Devices Banned on US Flights from Eight Muslim Countries

Emirates, the Middle East’s largest airline, flies to 12 US cities.

Image source Public Domain Pictures

The move comes after the US lifted the laptop ban on July 2 for Etihad flights from Abu Dhabi to the US.

The Turkish Airlines chief has said he expects the ban to be lifted for his airline soon as well.

Large Electronic Devices Ban on Flights Comes Into Effect in US and UK

Under the US rules, devices “larger than a smartphone” were not allowed in the cabins of flights from Turkey, Morocco, Jordan, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

The US Homeland Security department unveiled further measures last week to enhance security on flights entering the country.

The new measures require enhanced screening, more thorough vetting of passengers and the wider use of bomb-sniffer dogs in 105 countries.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnrF9Gb8pto

Looking After Your Healthcare Business & Its Patients

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If you are thinking of running a healthcare business, then you need to be sure that it is going to do what it needs to do as well as possible. All healthcare businesses need to focus on looking after the patient – that is the most important thing of all, and as long as you are doing that you can be sure that you are on the right track overall. Of course, this is easier said than done, and anyone who has ever tried to run this kind of business will tell you that there is plenty to consider if you want to get it right. In this post, we are going to take a look at a few of the major concerns that you need to focus on if you want your business to succeed in helping its patients as well as possible.

Staffing

In any business, it can be said that the employees are among the most important aspects of that business. But in certain industries, it is particularly true, and healthcare is one such industry. If you want your healthcare business to be at its best, then you need to ensure that you are hiring the best – it’s that simple. Otherwise, you will find that the level of care you are giving to your patients is not what it should be – and at all times, care should be the top concern in your healthcare business. Make sure you spend a lot of time finding exactly the right people for your business, as it really does make a world of difference. With the right team on board, you might be surprised at what you can achieve, and how many people you can help.

Admin & Systems

 

Something that really helps to tie any business together is having a decent administrative team, coupled with the use of some good systems and technology to help them deliver on their goals. In a sense, the admin team really do hold it all together, and that’s why it’s so important to make sure that you get this aspect of your healthcare business just right. Make sure the staff you have in this area of the business are as well-trained as possible, ideally with a health care administration degree online or through another institution. Also ensure that the systems they are given to use are the best you can possibly afford, as these are almost as important as the technology which is actually used in helping patients. With the right admin and systems, your healthcare business will be able to deliver fantastic care every time.

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Location

Depending on the type of healthcare business you are thinking of operating, you will need to make sure that you find an appropriate location for it. If it is a doctor’s surgery or a hospital, by way of example, then try to ensure that you find a location which is likely to be able to be accessible to as many of the local population as possible. That way, you can achieve the central goal of delivering the best possible care to the greatest number of people possible.

North Korea Claims It Successfully Tested ICBM

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North Korea has announced it successfully tested an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).

It is the first time North Korea has claimed to have successfully tested a long-range “intercontinental” missile which could potentially have the range to reach the US mainland.

Earlier the US said a missile landed in the Sea of Japan but that it did not pose a threat to North America.

North Korea has increased the frequency of its missile tests, raising tensions.

An announcement on North Korea state TV said it had launched a Hwasong-14 missile, overseen by their leader Kim Jong-un.

North Korea Tests New Rocket Engine

It said the projectile reached an altitude of 1,731 miles and flew 583 miles before hitting a target in the sea.

Earlier the US Pacific Command said it was an intermediate range missile.

Image source Wikipedia

While Pyongyang has appeared to have made progress, experts believe North Korea does not have the capability to accurately target a place with an intercontinental ballistic missile, or miniaturize a nuclear warhead that can fit on to such a missile.

North Korea Accuses US of Mugging Its Diplomats at JFK Airport

South Korea’s President Moon Jae-in has called on the UN Security Council to take steps against North Korea over its latest missile test.

Moon Jae-in has ordered security and diplomatic officials to seek “Security Council measures in close co-operation with the country’s allies, including the United States,” his chief press secretary Yoon Young-chan told reporters.

North Korea Fires Several Anti-Ship Missiles Off Its East Coast

Earlier Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said: “North Korea’s repeated provocations like this are absolutely unacceptable.”

Japan’s PM Shinzo Abe said his country would “unite strongly” with the US and South Korea to put pressure on Pyongyang.

President Donald Trump also responded swiftly on July 4 to the missile launch.

On his Twitter account, Donald Trump made apparent reference to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, saying: “Does this guy have anything better to do with his life?”

“Hard to believe that South Korea and Japan will put up with this much longer. Perhaps China will put a heavy move on North Korea and end this nonsense once and for all!”

President Trump has repeatedly called on China, Pyongyang’s closest ally, to pressure North Korea to end its nuclear and missile programs.

China has not fully responded to the latest test.

Jamie Horowitz: Fox Sports Fires Top Executive amid Harassment Scandal

Fox Sports has sacked its top executive Jamie Horowitz amid claims of harassment at the network.

Jamie Horowitz was the president of national networks at Fox Sports.

Fox Sports gave no reasons for the dismissal, but stressed on the importance of “professional conduct”.

Meanwhile, media report that Jamie Horowitz’s departure comes amid claims of harassment at Fox Sports.

Jamie Horowitz’s lawyer said “the way Jamie has been treated by Fox is appalling” and that the executive had worked “in an exemplary fashion”.

In the memo sent to employees, Fox Sports President Eric Shanks wrote that everyone should “adhere to professional conduct at all times”.

Image source YouTube

Jamie Horowitz’s lawyer Patricia Glaser said in response to his dismissal: “At no point in his tenure was there any mention by his superiors or human resources of any misconduct, nor an inability to adhere to professional conduct.

“Jamie was hired by Fox to do a job, the job that until today he has performed in an exemplary fashion. Any slanderous accusations to the contrary will be vigorously defended.”

However, Fox Sport’s lawyer Daniel Petrocelli said: “Mr. Horowitz’s termination was fully warranted and his lawyer’s accusations are ill-informed and misguided.”

Fox Sports is part of 21st Century Fox, which is owned by Rupert Murdoch.

According to the Los Angeles Times and the New York Times, about a week ago Fox began an investigation into claims of harassment at its sports division. The newspapers quoted a person briefed on the matter.

Fox has not publicly commented on the media reports, which could not be independently verified.

In April, prime-time presenter Bill O’Reilly was dropped from Fox News over harassment claims. He described the claims as “completely unfounded”.

Last July, Roger Ailes, a long-time boss of Fox News, resigned after a number of female employees had accused him of harassment.

At the time Roger Ailes said he was resigning because he had become a “distraction”. Roger Ailes died in May.

The Global Air Compressor Market

The global top air compressor market is anticipated to hit $37 Million marks by 2022. This is according to a report by the grand view Research Inc, a reputable market research company. The advancement of the compressor technology has been promoted by increased awareness on energy expenditure savings and expansion of industrialization.

For the next five years, the availability of energy efficient air compressors, which help to facilitate gas transfer processes for various industrial and non-industrial activities is anticipated to push demand for air compressors further forward. This technological advancement works towards reducing noise and air contamination levels in the particular industries where the compressors are used.

Via: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/images/Air%20compressor%20market%20sidebar.jpg

Components Of The Global Air Compressor Market

The global air compressor market is mostly made up of movable and stationary products. The convenience that’s associated with the ease of handling portable air compressors has taken its adoption in low duty application to a whole new level. Because they have highly durable parts, the compressors require minimal maintenance. As it was in the last few years, the stationary part of the compressors will account for more than 55% of the top air compressor markets across the globe in the next five (5) years.

Moreover, there has been an unprecedented growth in the global food and beverage industry in recent years, and this has played a huge role growing the sales of the air compressors worldwide. For instance, there is the need for quality compressed air processes such as dehydration and packaging.

This rising demand for diesel, gasoline and other fuels has helped to push the establishment of petrochemical plants in many parts of the world. It’s estimated that the Asia Pacific region and Brazil are among the areas of the globe that will contribute a bigger percentage of the growth in air compressor market.

Compressor dealers are putting more emphasis on top air compressors that guarantee superior levels of energy efficiency, while also aiming to sustain their profits by providing high-capacity options to various industries as oil and gas, food and beverage, energy and health care among others.

Via: http://www.airindknows.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/North-America-Air-compressor-market-sidebar.jpg

Moreover, replacement demand is a major component of the global compressor market. With more compressors in the market, there will be a huge demand for replacement parts. This growing demand is expected to be a key driver in the compressor industry since old equipment undergoes retrofits, parts replacements, and substitution with new technology or complete overhauls.

Fast-growing demand for gas and oil based projects, which include infrastructure desalination, petrochemicals and power are expected to be one of the key factors that will drive the air compressor market to a higher level.

It’s anticipated that home appliance market in emerging regions in the globe is expected to drive the growth of the air compressor industry over the next three or four years. Moreover, it’s envisioned that regulatory government agencies will tighten regulations regarding carbon emissions, and this will increase the demand for clean air compressors.

What air compressor buyers want

Top air compressor buyers will be on the lookout for compressors that offer high capacity air compression, cost savings, and efficiency. They want options that are less costly to maintain. No matter

 

Salvează

Qatar Crisis: Gulf Countries Extend Demands List Deadline by 48 Hours

Saudi Arabia and three other Gulf countries have extended the deadline for Qatar to accept a list of demands by 48 hours, or face further sanctions.

The initial deadline for Qatar to agree to the group’s 13 demands, including the shutting down of the Al Jazeera news network, expired on July 2.

Qatar, which denies funding extremism, has given a formal response, but details have not been released.

The Gulf country has already called the demands an “affront to international law”.

The requirements include the closure of a Turkish military base in Qatar and the curbing of diplomatic relations with Iran.

Qatar Rejects List of Conditions for Lifting Sanctions

Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman al-Thani was in Kuwait on July 3 to hand over a formal response in the form of a letter from the emir of Qatar to the emir of Kuwait, the main mediator in the Gulf crisis.

Image source Wikimedia

In a statement released shortly beforehand, lawyers for Qatar denounced the demands and called for international condemnation.

They said the tactics were “reminiscent of the extreme and punitive conduct of <<bully>> states that have historically resulted in war.

“The world must unite immediately to halt the singling out of Qatar for unjustified collective punishment and humiliation and to preserve peace, security and prosperity in the region.”

Qatar Airways’ License Revoked by Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Authority

Qatar has been under unprecedented diplomatic and economic sanctions for weeks from Saudi Arabia and its allies, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain.

The four Gulf countries, whose foreign ministers will meet on July 5 to discuss the situation, have accused Qatar of harboring Islamist groups that they consider terrorist organizations – including the Muslim Brotherhood – and giving them a platform on the Al Jazeera satellite channel, which is funded by the Qatari state. Doha denies the accusations.

Five Gulf Countries Cut Diplomatic Ties with Qatar

The imposed restrictions have caused turmoil in Qatar, an oil- and gas-rich nation dependent on imports to meet the basic needs of its population of 2.7 million. As a result, Iran and Turkey have been increasingly supplying it with food and other goods.

An unnamed official from one of the four countries told Reuters that Qatar was also being asked to sever links with so-called Islamic State, al-Qaeda and Lebanese Shia militant group Hezbollah.

The demands have not been officially unveiled. Their publication has increased the friction between the two sides.

Chris Christie Photographed Relaxing on Beach He Closed to Public

New Jersey Governor Chris Christie was photographed relaxing on a state beach he had ordered closed to the public.

He gave the go-ahead for non-essential services to be shut down – including the Island State Beach Park – over the July 4 holiday weekend because of a budget impasse.

“I didn’t get any sun today,” Chris Christie said, before the aerial photos emerged.

The images show the governor and his family on an otherwise empty beach.

Other visitors were turned away by police.

Chris Christie said his family was spending the weekend at the governor’s residence there and he was commuting to work by state helicopter.

Image source Flickr

“That’s just the way it goes. Run for governor, and you have can have a residence there,” he said at a news conference on July 2.

“I didn’t get any sun today,” he added.

After being told of the photographs, Chris Christie’s spokesman Brian Murray admitted the governor had “briefly” been on the beach “talking to his wife and family before heading into the office”.

Bridgegate: Chris Christie Gets Criminal Summons

“He did not get any sun. He had a baseball hat on,” Brian Murray added, NJ.com reported.

The partial government shutdown in New Jersey arose because state legislators had not passed a health insurance bill that Chris Christie said had to be passed alongside the state’s budget.

The shutdown included the closure of Island State Beach Park, one of New Jersey’s few free public beaches, and all other state parks.

Chris Christie had been trying to get the state’s largest health insurer, Horizon Cross Blue Shield, to hand over $300 million, some of which Chris Christie wanted to use to battle drug addiction in the state, the New York Times reported.

New Jersey is one of at least nine states that were unable to meet their budget deadlines at the beginning of the month.

Galaxy Note Fan Edition: Samsung Launches New Phone Reusing Galaxy Note 7 Parts

Samsung is launching a new smartphone using parts from its Galaxy Note 7, which was axed after a battery fault led to some devices catching fire.

The company said the Galaxy Note Fan Edition would “minimize the environmental impact” of its high-profile flop.

The Note Fan Edition will go on sale only in South Korea on July 7, with a safer, smaller battery, Samsung added.

Samsung stopped production on its iPhone rival late last year after an earlier botched recall and re-release.

Galaxy Note 7 Fire: Samsung Blames Battery Defects

About 2.5 million pieces of Galaxy Note 7 have since been recalled. The new phone features components from those recalled devices, as well as unused parts Samsung has in stock.

Image source Samsung

Environmentalists had been putting pressure on the firm to reuse Galaxy Note 7 components to reduce the amount of so-called e-waste.

Exploding Galaxy Note 7: Samsung Files Copyright Claims Against YouTube

It is thought about 400,000 handsets will be made available from July 7.

Note Fan Edition will be priced about 30% cheaper than the Galaxy Note 7 at around 700,000 Korean won ($615).

The devices will be fitted with 3,200 mAh batteries that company says have passed strict safety tests. The Note 7 used 3,500 mAh batteries.

The Samsung Galaxy Note 8, the successor to the original Note 7, is due for release later this year.

Donald Trump Tweets Video of Him Wrestling CNN

President Trump has tweeted a short video clip of him wrestling a person with the CNN logo for a head.

The clip is an altered version of Donald Trump’s appearance at a WWE wrestling event in 2007, in which he “attacked” franchise owner Vince McMahon in a scripted appearance.

The animation appears to have been posted to a pro-Trump internet forum earlier in the week.

CNN later accused President Trump of inciting violence against the media.

One panelist on ABC’s morning show, Ana Navarro – a Republican Trump critic and CNN contributor – said “it is an incitement to violence. He is going to get somebody killed in the media.”

President Trump Defends His Twitter Use

However, Homeland Security Adviser Thomas Bossert, who had appeared earlier on the same ABC program, said: “No-one would perceive that as a threat.”

The clip was submitted to a Donald Trump forum on the social media site Reddit four days ago, where it became one of the most popular posts.

After Donald Trump’s tweets, Reddit users expressed disbelief at the president’s use of the clip.

It was also re-tweeted by the official presidential Twitter account, @POTUS, operated by the White House.

Donald Trump has repeatedly clashed with CNN, which he calls “fake news”.

CNN’s top White House correspondent Jim Acosta, who has been critical of the White House’s attitude to the press, simply tweeted: “Isn’t pro wrestling fake?”

Meanwhile, the CNN Communications team tweeted a seemingly sarcastic response quoting White House press officer Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who said on June 29: “The President in no way form or fashion has ever promoted or encouraged violence. If anything, quite the contrary.”

In a later statement, CNN said: “Clearly, Sarah Huckabee Sanders lied… [he is] involved in juvenile behavior far below the dignity of this office.”

“We will keep doing our jobs. He should start doing his.”

President Trump’s unusual tweet comes a day after he said his use of social media “is not Presidential – it’s modern day presidential.”

On June 29, the president launched an attack on MSNBC hosts Mika Brzezinski and Joe Scarborough. His tweets were condemned by Democrats and Republicans alike.

Donald Trump has an entry in the World Wrestling Entertainment Hall of Fame for his appearance in the franchise a decade ago.

In 2007, franchise owner Vince McMahon challenged Donald Trump to a so-called “Battle of the Billionaires” at a Wrestlemania event, with a wager that the loser would have their head shaved.

Top Republicans Disapprove Donald Trump’s Attack on Mika Brzezinski

The US professional wrestling scene is largely pre-scripted and seen as a form of entertainment rather than a sport.

During the same event, Donald Trump was “thrown” to the mat by wrestler Steve Austin with his signature move, “the stone cold stunner.”

Rather than fighting directly, each business magnate backed a performer. Donald Trump’s wrestler was victorious.

However, on the sidelines of the ring, Donald Trump performed his scripted attack on Vince McMahon, providing the original video for his beat-down of CNN.

Donald Trump then helped to shave Donald McMahon’s head on TV.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PIYh9UZsL8

President Trump Defends His Twitter Use

President Donald Trump has defended his persistent use of social media in a series of tweets, following a row over comments he made about MSNBC presenters Mika Brzezinski and Joe Scarborough.

The president tweeted on July 1: “My use of social media is not presidential – it’s modern day presidential.”

Earlier in the week, Donald Trump launched a crude personal attack on Mika Brzezinski and Joe Scarborough.

The president’s tweets were condemned by Democrats and Republicans alike, despite the White House springing to his defense.

President Trump’s aides have previously expressed concern over his tweets.

Top Republicans Disapprove Donald Trump’s Attack on Mika Brzezinski

However, Donald Trump said on July 1 that social media gave him the opportunity to connect directly to the public, bypassing the mainstream media, whose content he regularly labels as “fake news”.

The resident tweeted: “The FAKE & FRAUDULENT NEWS MEDIA is working hard to convince Republicans and others I should not use social media.”

He added: “But remember, I won the 2016 election with interviews, speeches and social media.”

Image source Wikipedia

Donald Trump also stepped up his attack on CNN after the network retracted an article alleging that one of the president’s aides was under investigation by Congress.

“I am extremely pleased to see that @CNN has finally been exposed as #FakeNews and garbage journalism. It’s about time!”

The story that caused the upset, which was later removed from the website following an internal investigation, resulted in the resignations of three CNN journalists: Thomas Frank, investigative unit editor and Pulitzer Prize winner Eric Lictblau and Lex Harris, who oversaw the investigations unit.

President Trump Criticizes Growing Number of States Refusing to Pass Voters Data

Donald Trump has repeatedly called CNN “fake news” and has previously labeled Buzzfeed a “failing pile of garbage”.

At a news conference in February, President Trump was introduced to the BBC’s North America editor, Jon Sopel, to which he responded: “Here’s another beauty.”

Meanwhile, addressing military veterans at the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts in Washington on July 1, President Trump promised that America would “win again”, prompting cheers from the crowd as he attacked media outlets.

“The fake media is trying to silence us, but we will not let them,” Donald Trump said at the Celebrate Freedom Rally.

“The fake media tried to stop us from going to the White House. But I’m president, and they’re not.”

President Trump has more than 33 million followers on Twitter. Although it is becoming seemingly more difficult for the president to shock this audience, his 140-character posts have been condemned by both politicians and commentators.

Some consider the language used by President Trump as unsuitable for the holder of the highest office. On June 30, the New York Post published a three-word editorial on Donald Trump’s tweets: “Stop. Just stop.”

It followed the president’s tweets on June 29 mocking MSNBC Morning Joe host Mika Brzezinski, saying she had been “bleeding badly from a facelift” when he saw her six months ago.

Donald Trump also verbally attacked her co-host and partner, Joe Scarborough, describing him as “psycho Joe”.

Mika Brzezinksi and Joe Scarborough hit back, accusing the president of an “unhealthy obsession” with them”. They alleged the White House had tried to blackmail them into apologizing for their show’s negative coverage of President Trump.

Despite the criticism, Donald Trump stepped up his attack on Mika Brzezinksi on July 1, calling her “dumb as a rock”.

Canada Day: Country Marks 150th Anniversary

Canada marked its 150th anniversary as a country in cities, towns and at backyard barbecues nationwide.

Revelers, police and some protesters converged on Ottawa on July 2 for a party that has been years in the planning.

However, the biggest bash was at Parliament Hill in Ottawa, where thousands of people joined the celebrations.

Large crowds turned out in their droves – albeit huddled under umbrellas, trying to avoid the rain.

Some partygoers got to the hill before the sun had even risen.

Their early morning netted them a prime spot right next to the main stage.

The celebrations included a concert by Canadian artists, a display from Canada’s aerobatics squadron the Snowbirds, a citizenship ceremony for new Canadians, and a massive fireworks display.

Justin Trudeau Welcomes First Syrian Refugees Arriving in Canada

Canadian theater giants Cirque du Soleil performed, and Bono and The Edge from the rock band U2 serenaded the crowd with an acoustic set.

PM Justin Trudeau, who has made inclusiveness a political calling card, gave a speech celebrating that attribute.

“We don’t care where you’re from or what religion you practise, or whom you love – you are all welcome in Canada,” he said to cheers from the crowd.

Justin Trudeau’s speech was delivered in both English and French, a tradition in Canada, which recognizes both as its official languages.

“This is as good a reason as any to reflect on our past, to cheer on today, and to recommit ourselves to the future,” the prime minister said to the 25,000 partygoers who had waited hours to get past security and on to the parliament’s lawn.

Image source Flickr

However, Justin Trudeau also took a moment to remember Canada’s indigenous people, whom he said had been “the victims of oppression” since the first settlers arrived.

“As a society, we must acknowledge past mistakes,” he said, telling the audience that there was still much work to be done in order to achieve reconciliation.

However, Canada, the prime minister said, was determined to see a reconciliation over the coming years and decades.

“It is a choice we make not because of what we did, or who we were, but because of who we are,” he said.

Indigenous culture was represented in many ways across the festivities, with a number of indigenous performers participating in Canada Day concerts in the capital region.

However, some indigenous peoples refused to recognize Canada 150, saying it represented more than a hundred years of colonization.

Sandwiched between security fences and to the west of the main stage on the parliament’s lawn, a group of indigenous protesters set up a teepee.

They were allowed to stay on Parliament Hill after erecting the structure in the early hours of June 29 in what organizers called a “reoccupation”.

Across the Ottawa River in Gatineau, Quebec, crowds also lined up to see Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall open a new hall at Canada’s Museum of History.

Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles’ mother, is Canada’s head of state.

Queen Elizabeth II Jokes with New Canadian PM Justin Trudeau

Canada shelled out an estimated C$500 million ($385 million) on everything from festivities to security and infrastructure projects.

Canada Day, held on July 1 each year, marks the merging of four former British colonies into a single new country. It is a national holiday.

The country grew in size in the years that followed, and finally achieved complete autonomy from the UK in 1931.

It was not until 1982, however, that the British parliament transferred final legal powers to Canada, including the power to amend its constitution.

President Trump Criticizes Growing Number of States Refusing to Pass Voters Data

President Donald Trump has criticized the growing number of states refusing to pass on voters’ details to his commission on electoral fraud.

The president tweeted: “What are they trying to hide?”

At least 20 states have said that they will not or only partly comply with the request, citing privacy concerns.

Democrats fear that the commission may be used to justify tightening voting procedures – changes which could make certain groups less likely to vote.

The groups most affected by so-called voter suppression tend to vote Democrat.

However, it is not just Democrats who are opposed to the collection of such data by the federal government.

Mississippi’s Secretary of State, Delbert Hosemann, a Republican, said in an official statement that his reply to the commission would be “they can go jump in the Gulf of Mexico and Mississippi is a great state to launch from”.

Donald Trump Describes Wisconsin Vote Recount as Scam

Donald Trump set up the commission to investigate claims – unsubstantiated, but which he repeats – that millions of fraudulent votes cost him the popular vote in the 2016 presidential election.

Image source Flickr

He secured more votes in the all-important Electoral College than Hillary Clinton, thus winning the presidency.

Donald Trump established the Presidential Advisory commission on Election Integrity in May, despite evidence that voter fraud is not a widespread problem in the US.

The aim is to “increase the American people’s confidence in the integrity of our election systems”.

Hillary Clinton’s Campaign to Participate in Wisconsin Vote Recount

Kentucky’s Secretary of State, Alison Lundergan Grimes, said she would not be releasing “sensitive personal data to the federal government”.

She said in a statement: “Kentucky will not aid a commission that is at best a waste of taxpayer money and at worst an attempt to legitimize voter suppression efforts across the country.”

The panel, described by President Trump as “very distinguished,” is chaired by Vice-President Mike Pence.

On June 28, its vice-chair, Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach, sent a letter to the 50 US states and the District of Columbia requesting details from voter rolls including: names, addresses, dates of birth, political affiliation, last four digits of social security number, voting history since 2006, criminal convictions and military status.

The information would be used “to fully analyze vulnerabilities and issues related to voter registration and voting,” the letter said.

Many other states, including Alabama, California, Connecticut and Minnesota have said they will not send the information, or will only send information that is already publically available.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kiLeSmJKr20

Lionel Messi and Antonela Roccuzzo’s Wedding of the Century Held in Rosario

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Lionel Messi has married his childhood sweetheart Antonela Roccuzzo in his hometown in Argentina in what has been called the “wedding of the century”.

A civil ceremony for the 30-year-old Argentine soccer star and Antonela Roccuzzo, 29, was held at a luxury hotel in the city of Rosario.

Soccer stars and celebrities were among the 260 guests, with hundreds of police deployed for the event.

Lionel Messi, the Argentina and Barcelona forward, met Antonela Roccuzzo as a child before he moved to Spain aged just 13.

Lionel Messi to Testify over Spain Tax Fraud

Among the guests at June 30 wedding were Lionel Messi’s Barcelona teammates Luis Suárez, Neymar, Gerard Piqué and his wife, Shakira. A number of guests flew into Rosario on private jets.

Argentina’s Clarín newspaper has variously called the wedding “the wedding of the year” and “the wedding of the century”.

Image source Getty

Earlier, crowds gathered at the local airport to try to spot some of the famous guests.

A private security firm was working inside the hotel to keep out potential gatecrashers.

About 150 journalists received accreditation to enter a special press area, but were not given full access to the venue, organizers said.

Lionel Messi met Antonela Roccuzzo when he was just five years old. She is the cousin of his best friend, Lucas Scaglia, who also became a professional soccer player.

Lionel Messi accepted an offer to play for Barcelona when he was 13, on condition that they pay for treatment for his growth hormone deficiency.

He has spoken about the difficulties he faced on leaving behind his loved ones and former club.

Lionel Messi and Antonela Roccuzzo, who now live in Barcelona, have two sons together.

The wedding was held at Rosario’s City Center hotel complex, which has an adjoining casino.

Lionel Messi becomes Champions League’s all-time top scorer

Antonela Roccuzzo was widely expected to wear a dress by Rosa Clara, a Barcelona-based designer who has dressed actress Eva Longoria and Spain’s Queen Letizia.

Aside from a “sushi station”, the menu was a very Argentine affair, including empanadas (traditional pasties) and all parts of the cow, from a casserole of sweetbreads to blood sausage.

Clarín reported that Lionel Messi did not invite any of his recent coaches, including Pep Guardiola, who is now at Manchester City.

Argentina’s other big soccer legend, Diego Maradona, was also omitted from the list, according to the local press.

The port city of Rosario sits on the banks of the Paraná, about 200 miles north-west of Buenos Aires in the center of Argentina.

Another famous Argentine to have spent his early years here is Ernesto “Che” Guevara.

Lionel Messi is known locally simply as Lío.

He has been a local hero since his days as a star player for Newell’s Old Boys.

The team has a staunch rivalry with nearby Rosario Central, similar to that of Boca Juniors and River Plate in Buenos Aires.

Since moving to Spain, Lionel Messi has won a record-breaking five FIFA Ballon d’Or awards.

Gay Marriage Bill Approved by German Parliament

Germany’s parliament has voted to legalize gay marriage days after Chancellor Angela Merkel dropped her opposition to a vote.

The reform grants gay couples now limited to civil unions full marital rights, and allows them to adopt children.

Angela Merkel’s political opponents were strongly in favor. However, the chancellor, who signaled her backing for a free vote only on June 26, voted against.

The bill was backed by 393 lawmakers, 226 voted against and four abstained.

According to the AFP, the German legal code will now read: “Marriage is entered into for life by two people of different or the same sex.”

Barack Obama has become the first sitting US president to back same-sex marriage

Following June 30 vote, Angela Merkel said that for her marriage was between a man and a woman. But she said she hoped the passing of the bill would lead to more “social cohesion and peace”.

Image source Getty

During her 2013 election campaign, Angela Merkel argued against gay marriage on the grounds of “children’s welfare,” and admitted that she had a “hard time” with the issue.

However, in an on-stage interview with the women’s magazine Brigitte on June 26, Angela Merkel shocked the German media by saying, in response to an audience member’s question, that she had noted other parties’ support for gay marriage, and would allow a free vote at an unspecified time in the future.

Xavier Bettel Marriage: Luxembourg PM Marries Partner Gauthier Destenay

Angela Merkel also said she had had a “life-changing experience” in her home constituency, where she had dinner with a lesbian couple who cared for eight foster children together.

As the news spread on Twitter, supporters rallied under the hashtag #EheFuerAlle (MarriageForAll) – and started calling for a vote as soon as possible.

Angela Merkel’s current coalition partners – the centre-left Social Democrats (SPD), who are trailing her Christian Democrats (CDU) in opinion polls – then seized the political initiative.

They called for a vote by the time parliament went into summer recess at the end of the week – prompting Angela Merkel to complain she’d been “ambushed”.

A recent survey by the government’s anti-discrimination agency found that 83% of Germans were in favor of marriage equality.

The day after the Republic of Ireland voted to legalize gay marriage in May 2015, almost every German newspaper splashed a rainbow across its front page.

4 Things to Remember when You are Moving in Glendale

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Glendale is a blessed city, so it is not surprising that new house owners and tenants often come to this place to realize their American dream. Though, relocation is usually a hard thing to do. Even a thought about moving frustrates people. At the same time, changing the place of living or location of your company will turn into a pleasant adventure, if you remember 4 crucially important things.

1 – Trust Experts Only

Since you want to move easy and without any rush, find credible registered movers. In the north suburb of Los Angeles Glendale moving company can help you do a residential or commercial move.

Choosing a moving agency, pay attention to working experience of the team, customers’ feedback, working hours and insurance possibilities. The latter criterion is the most eloquent one because only trusted movers with many years of experience guarantee that they cover a potential loss of things when moving.

2 – Do a Reserve List

Good moving companies offer not only loaders and trucks but also advise on some organizational issues. They do a list of all things they are going to transfer and follow clients’ instructions carefully.

Nevertheless, it is better to have a reserve copy of the list of items to be delivered to your new place. Such approach is helpful, if a dispute with a moving company occurs. It’s also very important to make a master moving checklist where you can easily check off things one by one as the process unfolds.

3 – Draw a Plan of Unloading

Do not hesitate to ask about some additional or special services. If you hire professionals from moving companies, draw them a sketch of unloading. Think about the end result you expect. Do you want to order only the delivery of things or come to a new house or office with carefully arranged furniture and packaged items according to your plan?

Specialists can help you arrange boxes in the specified rooms and organize a new space in a certain order. Thus you will avoid one of the most unpleasant moments when moving – the sensation of chaos.

4 – Have Your Very Important Bag on You

Collect all important things like documents, keys, credit cards and cash, office stamps, etc. into one bag or box and carry it by yourself. There are cases when people come to a new place but cannot find their passports, documents for real estate, children’s certificates of birth, medical policies and so on.

Also put the essentials in a separate package, if you do not want to run behind the napkins to the nearest shop. Do not rely on chance. Think in advance about important little things, so as not to get into trouble.

These four simple recommendations are very helpful in practice. Just follow them to make your move successful! Good luck and see you in Glendale!

Is Your Art Authentic? 6 Questions to Ask an Authenticator

Is that beautiful “original” hanging in your living room authentic?

According to Columbia Law School, some experts estimate that as many as 40% of artwork sales involve forgeries. Statistically, there’s a two-in-five chance that your “original” is actually a fake.

Forgeries are more common than most art buyers realize, say art collectors and experts. Regardless of the artwork’s origin, purported provenance, or cost, you need to ascertain its authenticity.

That process begins with a credible authenticator. You’ll want to ask that person some questions:

1. Do You Use Authentication Software?

Art authentication isn’t solely about intuition. Modern authenticators increasingly use sophisticated, algorithm-driven software “trained” to detect inconsistencies, variations, or flaws that suggest foul play. Eric Postma, a professor at Maastricht University in the Netherlands, shared his cutting-edge software with PBS NOVA back in 2008. His proudest achievement: ferreting out the famed Wacker forgery, one of history’s most vexing.

2. What Other Methods Do You Use?

Algorithmic software is just one of many technological tools in an authenticator’s belt. Reputable authenticators like the International Foundation for Art Research (IFAR) use “X-radiography, infrared reflectography, pigment or media testing, fiber analysis,” and other techniques. A bigger toolbelt is usually better.

3. Can You Authenticate Any Artist’s Work?

Some authenticators focus on a relative handful of prominent artists or discrete periods of art history. Others are more versatile. If you’re in possession of an obscure but potentially valuable work, you’ll need to do your due diligence to find someone capable of accurate authentication.

4. Will You Alter the Work in Any Way?

It goes without saying that your work is worth more intact than altered, regardless of its true origins. Before signing an authentication contract, confirm with the authenticator that they won’t damage or alter the work in any way. Some single-artist foundations are known to stamp purported forgeries, denying their owners the right to second opinions.

5. Is an Original Necessarily Authentic?

Can an original be inauthentic?

When a work is genuine — actually created by he or she who claimed to create it — it’s by definition an original. But that doesn’t mean it’s meant for prime time. Every great artist has a “B-roll” of sketches, drafts, larks, and the like. When they pass on, opportunistic relatives or estate managers often try to sell them off, contrary to their likely intent. It’s important to know when you’re in possession of a “work” that was never supposed to see the light of day.

6. How Much Do You Charge?

This isn’t a very creative question, but he answer is important to know up front. Many authenticators charge non-refundable deposits simply for agreeing to consider the work. Once the piece is accepted for authentication, there’s likely to be another charge — possibly refundable and held in escrow, possibly not. During authentication, the authenticator may incur additional expenses, depending on the techniques used or the amount of research required; these are typically passed on to the owner or agent. Final payment is due after issuance of an official report, regardless of its findings.

What is Modernism: A Brief History

Modernism stemmed from the Industrial revolution, a time where rapid changes to the landscape at the hands of manufacturing, transportation and changes to the urban landscape as city centres began to prosper. Before this time artists were commissioned to produce art depicting scenes from the bible or mythology; but as the landscape changed there was new inspiration and artists begun to take influence from their surroundings. This was perceived as a reaction from the past and this style of art was centred around innovation, experimentation and the embracing of new materials and colour, to create artwork reflective of the time.

Modernism reflected changes in society, the experimentation of colour and lines and a tendency towards abstract depiction is reminiscent in the works of Antoni Gaudi, scattered throughout Barcelona.

At the end of the 19th century, Barcelona was beginning to transform and its’ culture was transforming, in Barcelona, the urban landscape was developing and there was a significant increase in the quantity of buildings being developed. The return of the ‘los indianos’, Spaniards that were returning home with their fortunes and the modern lifestyle influences from Latin America, who were keen to bring around changes.

Barcelona’s economic prosperity and the rise of the bourgeoisie was clearly evident. The Passeig de Gracia is a road that unites the old and new town and this is the destination that depicts so much of the work Antoni Gaudi. This area became a desirable location for the Catalan middle classes to spend their time and money in the abundance of luxury shops. The wealthiest members of society wanted to build their houses as demonstration of their wealth.

Josep Batllo was a wealthy textile business owner, he bought a bland and dreary building and enlisted the services of Antoni Gaudi to transform the building into something more prominent and bold, the result created one of the most iconic buildings of the modernism movement. This movement is credited with development of Barcelona. The development of the building known as Casa Battlo in the Passeig de Gracia is a celebration of Gaudi and he is credited as one of the most dynamic of this movement.

Caso Battlo embodies typical modernist and Gaudi style. Modernist architecture is characterised by the use of curved lines, merging the functional and the aesthetic of a building, the use of plant and animal symbols, asymmetry and a more organic style and shape. Modernism embraces the use of colour and the use of new materials incorporated with existing is typical of this style.

Caso Battlo, has a fantastical and imaginative façade with the use of glass and stone, wavy lines and covered in a rainbow of cleared mosaics in colours of the sea and sand made from glass and ceramics. The roof is shaped like the back of large scaled animal, often likened to a dragon, the ornamental spine forms the top of the building.  The main gallery overlooks passersby on the Passeig de Gracia and a full panorama of the outside view is possible running the whole width of the room. The interior pillars are decorated with modernist floral designs. Balconies adorn the exterior projecting outward over the pavement. Much like Gaudi’s work Caso Batllo is an organic and colourful representation of the time, a representation of a creature adorning the pavement.

Donald Trump’s Controversial Travel Ban Comes into Effect on June 30

President Donald Trump’s controversial travel ban comes into effect on June 30 and people from six mainly Muslim countries and all refugees now face tougher US entry due to.

According to the new order, people without “close” family or business relationships in the US could be denied visas and barred entry.

The rules apply to people from Iran, Libya, Syria, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen, as well as to all refugees.

Lawyers took up positions as US airports, offering free advice.

However, there was no sign of the chaos that affected travelers when the first version of the ban was brought in at a few hours’ notice in January.

Image source Wikipedia

That is because the executive order does not affect people who already have valid visas or green cards.

US Travel Ban: White House Sets New Criteria for Visa Applicants from Six Muslim Countries

The Department of Homeland Security said it expected “business as usual at our ports of entry”.

The Supreme Court ruling on June 26 upheld the temporary ban, a key Trump policy.

However, the judges provided a major exception, for those who have “a credible claim of a bona fide relationship” with someone in the US.

The effect is that citizens of the affected countries with a close relative in the US, such as a spouse, parent, child or sibling, will potentially be allowed in.

In a last minute change, the Trump administration extended the definition of close family to include fiancés.

However grandparents, aunts, uncles, nephews and nieces are not considered to be “bona fide” relations.

Moments before the ban began at 20:00 Washington time on June 29, it emerged that the state of Hawaii had asked a federal judge for clarification.

Hawaii’s attorney general has argued that the definition of “close family” is too narrow and may improperly prevent people from travelling to the US.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) said it would be closely monitoring the guidance and implementation of the order.

The Supreme Court is expected to make a final decision on the ban when its next session begins in October.

Can Brookhaven come back to its senses?

Municipalities should create an environment where their citizens can live happily.

Brookhaven does not currently seem to have such common sense.

A bronze statue called the “Statue of Peace” will debut in a Brookhaven city park on June 30th. The name sounds quite nice, but there are two big problems with this statue.

Park risks becoming a place for political propaganda

On the 19th, “Reporter Newspaper” reported on some citizen’s opposition to the statue’s installation. Looking at the photos featured in this article, few people are likely to imagine a normal park where children run around. In a beautiful green environment, a mysterious statue of a girl is suddenly about to appear.

This statue is modeled after women called comfort women. Comfort women are women who care for soldiers fighting on the front lines during a war. In other words, these women provide sexual services to soldiers. Their purpose is to resolve unfulfilled desires and to help soldiers concentrate on battle. The statue to debut in Brookhaven is modeled after Korean women who provided services to Japanese soldiers during World War II.

“It is compatible with the theme and imagery of the memorial”. This statement was made by Burke Brennan, the city’s spokesperson. Does he mean to say that “women who provide sexual services” are the appropriate theme for a quiet green place?

Furthermore, the comfort women topic sparking discussion actually violates South Korea’s international pledge. The problem of comfort women has long created a rift in South Korean-Japanese diplomatic relations. However, almost one and a half years ago, South Korea and Japan signed an international treaty. They put a stop to the issue of comfort women, which had become a wall between the two countries. They signed an international pledge stating that Japan would once again pay reparations to South Korea and issue an official apology, and that neither country would ever again bring up this topic. But establishing a comfort woman statue in support of South Koreans’ claims will increase tension between South Korea and Japan. By getting involved in this political dispute, Brookhaven is about to once again divide these two Asian countries. There will likely be less visitors to the park because of the installation of this statue. One can imagine the strange scenario of the park being visited only by South Koreans.

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South Korean prostitution encroaches on US

New York, Texas, Georgia, Indiana. These are places where South Korean prostitutes have been exposed. The Department of State report on the eradication of human trafficking stated that at 25%, Korean women made up the largest percentage of foreign female prostitutes in the US. One rumor raises concern that wave may have reached Brookhaven. That rumor involves the close relationship of a certain strip club and a South Korean organization in Atlanta.

There is no one in Brookhaven who doesn’t know about this club, called “Pink Pony.” Strip clubs are prohibited in this city, but Pink Pony has remained in business by paying the police something called a “patrol fee.” At the beginning of this year, a prostitution incident involving Pink Pony occurred in the neighboring Sandy Springs. Also, the South Korean organization in Atlanta has only one goal. That is to establish a statue for comfort women. They actually tried to have a statue installed in Atlanta, but were refused and failed.

Pink Pony is given special permission to operate illegally, and then a comfort woman statue is suddenly installed in a city with a calm atmosphere. What these two things have in common is this Atlanta South Korean organization. It is difficult to explain this as a coincidence.

Top Republicans Disapprove Donald Trump’s Attack on Mika Brzezinski

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Senior Republicans have joined condemnation of President Donald Trump over an attack he made on Twitter against prominent journalist Mika Brzezinski.

Donald Trump called Mika Brzezinski “low IQ crazy Mika”, in response to disparaging remarks about him on an MSNBC show.

The president also referred to her “bleeding badly from a facelift” and assailed her co-presenter Joe Scarborough.

Senator Lindsey Graham said Donald Trump’s remarks were “beneath the office” of president.

Lindsey Graham said the tweet “represents what is wrong with American politics, not the greatness of America”.

“Please just stop. This isn’t normal,” tweeted fellow Republican Senator Ben Sasse.

Image source Flickr

Republican House Speaker Paul Ryan also joined the criticism, saying: “I don’t see that as an appropriate comment. What we’re trying to do around here is improve the tone, the civility of the debate. This obviously doesn’t help.”

MSNBC said it was “a sad day for America when the president spends his time bullying, lying and spewing petty personal attacks instead of doing his job”.

Fake Donald Trump Time Magazine Cover Displayed in Five of His Golf Clubs

However, the White House sprang to President Trump’s defense.

Spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders told Fox News: “I don’t think that the president has ever been someone that gets attacked and doesn’t push back.

“People on that [MSNBC] show have personally attacked him many times. This is a president who fights fire with fire and certainly will not be allowed to be bullied by liberal media and the liberal elites within the media, or Hollywood or anywhere else.”

Mika Brzezinski and Joe Scarborough co-present the MSNBC’s Morning Joe, which has increasingly derided President Trump since he took office.

Donald Trump Defends His Relation with Women After Attacking Megyn Kelly

In recent weeks, Joe Scarborough has called Donald Trump a “bumbling dope”, resembling “a kid who pooped in his pants”, while Mika Brzezinski has mocked members of the administration as “lobotomized”.

President Trump tweeted on June 29: “I heard poorly rated @Morning_Joe speaks badly of me (don’t watch anymore).”

He accused “low I.Q. Crazy Mika” and “Psycho Joe” of “insisting on joining me” at his Mar-a-Lago Florida golf resort over three days at New Year’s Eve.

“She was bleeding badly from a face-lift. I said no!” the president added.

Democrat Nancy Pelosi called Donald Trump’s tweets “sexist, an assault on the freedom of the press & an insult to all women”.

Mika Brzezinski is the daughter of the late Zbigniew Brzezinski, who was an aide to presidents Carter and Johnson, while Joe Scarborough is a former Republican congressman. Mika Brzezinski and Joe Scarborough are engaged to each other.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AIxXHfZA5pg

Venus Williams Involved in Florida Fatal Crash

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Venus Williams has been involved in a car crash that led to the death of a 78-year-old man in Florida.

The Palm Beach Gardens police are investigating a fatal crash involving the tennis star.

A man was taken to hospital after the accident on June 9 and died two weeks later from his injuries.

Police believe Venus Williams, 37, was at fault but her lawyer says it was an accident. She has not been cited or charged.

The man who died, Jerome Barson, was traveling with his wife who was driving their car through an intersection when the collision happened.

Image source Flickr

Venus Williams’ car suddenly darted into their path and was unable to clear the junction in time due to traffic jams, according to witness statements in a police report obtained by media.

Jerome Barson’s wife was also taken to hospital but survived.

Serena and Venus Williams slurs: Shamil Tarpischev gets $25,000 fine

“[Venus Williams] is at fault for violating the right of way of [the other driver],” the report said, adding that there were no other factors like drugs, alcohol or mobile phone distractions.

The seven-time Grand Slam champion reportedly told police she did not see the couple’s car and she was driving slowly.

Venus Williams’ lawyer Malcolm Cunningham told CNN in a statement: “Ms Williams entered the intersection on a green light. The police report estimates that Ms Williams was travelling at 5mph when Mrs. Barson crashed into her.

“Authorities did not issue Ms Williams with any citations or traffic violations. This is an unfortunate accident and Venus expresses her deepest condolences to the family who lost a loved one.”

Next week, Venus Williams is due to play her 20th Wimbledon tournament in London, where she is seeded 10th.

Venus Williams and her sister Serena have dominated the women’s game for two decades.

Sony Music Resumes Vinyl Production

Sony Music has announced it will start pressing its own vinyl releases again for the first time since 1989.

The company will resume in-house domestic vinyl production at a Japanese factory south-west of Tokyo by March 2018.

Sony Music is one of the big three global record companies.

The move comes amid renewed demand for old-fashioned black plastic records, which now occupy a key market niche.

Image source Max Pixel

At one time, the vinyl format had been expected to disappear after the rise of CDs, digital downloads and streaming.

During vinyl’s long decline from the late 1980s onwards, many record factories closed down, with production confined to a few specialist independent companies.

However, this year, global vinyl revenue is expected to hit $1billion, with many consumers swearing by its supposedly superior sound quality.

Kesha’s Sony Music Slavery Case Dismissed by New York Court

Vinyl records have been growing in popularity again in recent years, boosted by events such as Record Store Day in April every year, for which record companies produce special limited-edition singles and albums.

Sony Music’s move comes a few months after it equipped its Tokyo studio with a cutting lathe, used to produce the master discs needed for manufacturing vinyl records.

It has not yet said which titles it will be pressing in vinyl, but big sellers in the format these days are a mixture of classic back-catalogue items and modern releases by new bands.

Value Adding: Home Improvements to Consider to Attract Real Estate Buyers

Before you start pulling out everything, think about your house need some make over. Reasons may differentiate the things you need to do if you aim to improve the value of your home.

If you intend to sell your house, then your renovations must somehow add value to its costs. This home improvement becomes an investment and is aiming towards an increase in saleability.

If you want to compete and have your house as marketable as ever, never miss out these easy home improvement ideas.

Fix the Floors

 

According to surveys the most damaged part of a house are the floors. Fixing this would sizably add up a value towards the marketability of your home. You can consider putting tiles to add texture and color and print to your home. Tiles are a good way to produce a more polished and elegant feel in spaces like your bathroom or kitchen.

Nicely Paint the Walls

Brown Wooden Coffee Table Near Black Sofa Near the Window

Again our intention here is to add up value to your house, so it becomes more attractive to potential buyers. When painting the walls forget about your desire for it to reflect your personality or mood.

The best advice is to paint your walls with neutral colors. This thing is important because it will help those who are buying your home have a bright idea to incorporate their personal preference when they are moving in. Other people are not good at imagining colors and spaces.

Darker Grout on Bathroom Tiles

architecture, bathroom, contemporary

There is no other way to impress your buyers when it comes to presenting your bathroom but to have it clean and free of any stain. Attain this by manically scrubbing every inch of your bathroom. After you’re done removing the unnecessaries, consider putting dark grouts. It provides more emphasis and cleaner look especially when you do have white-colored tiles.

Spruce Up Your Garden

daisies, flowers, garden

You can convince your potential buyers to buy the impression of what is inside looks goods same as the outside. Transform your garden by cutting the grass in your lawn, repainting the paint. The cheapest way to put more effects is to put a plant or to create a landscape as a minor detail.

The main thing is, in every presentation, the first impression lasts, and it is always about how it looks from the outside.

Consider Checking the Roof

 

If there’s a part most likely unattended, it was the roof. You’ll never want any prospective buyers to be surprised that after they bought your house, they are then facing problems like leaks from the ceiling.

Put Carpets to Add More Details

 

Putting elegant rugs is one of the tricks and are a relatively cheap way to increase the value of your house. Carpets can bring luxurious detailing to the floors of any part of the house. Consider placing one with a dull color which is in line with the theme of your home, and you need to avoid ones with additional patterns.

Takeaway

Home improvement for the purpose of selling your house may take a little of investing. This move can add up a pretty nice market value and can increase the marketability of your home. Paying attention to details and those things that are often missed out can produce unexpected gains. Put more value on what you are offering to gain more returns.

 

Author Bio:

Mark Stanford is an architecture student who is very enthusiastic about new designs and innovations when it comes to building homes. During his free time, Mark writes about his ideas on the design so that he can share his knowledge with everyone interested.

 

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US Travel Ban: White House Sets New Criteria for Visa Applicants from Six Muslim Countries

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The US has set new criteria for visa applicants from six mainly Muslim countries and all refugees, requiring them to have a “close” family or business tie to the United States.

The new rules, affecting people from Iran, Libya, Syria, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen, come into force on June 29.

They were issued after the Supreme Court partially restored President Donald Trump’s travel ban.

Donald Trump’s controversial executive order had been blocked by lower courts.

According to the new rules, for the next 90 days those without a close relationship – defined as a parent, spouse, child, son or daughter-in-law, or sibling – will not be able to enter the US.

The definition of “close” relationships excludes grandparents, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, in-laws, extended family and grandchildren.

Also exempt from the new rules are those with business or educational ties to the US.

Image source Flickr

However, the guidelines specifically state that the relationship must be formal, documented and formed in ordinary course, rather than for the purpose of evading the executive order.

Trump’s New Travel Ban: Judge James Robart Declines to Issue Emergency Order to Halt Implementation

Those who already hold valid visas are not affected. Dual nationals who travel on their passport from the unaffected country will also be allowed entry.

The rules come into effect at 20:00 Washington time.

However, lawyers both for and against the ban have warned that the new restrictions – which will remain in place until the Supreme Court issues a final ruling – could open the door to a flood of legal challenges.

However, the Supreme Court will not be reviewing the case until October – which will mean the 90-day period will be largely done.

The court also approved the 120-day ban on refugees entering the US, allowing the government to bar entry to refugee claimants who do not have any “bona fide relationship” with an American individual or entity.

Trump Immigration Order: Justin Trudeau Does Not Agree with Refugee Ban

Donald Trump’s administration has put a cap on the number of refugees it is willing to accept at 50,000, which the State Department said would be reached in the next two weeks.

Rights groups have been fighting President Trump’s executive order for the last five months.

President Trump said the order was needed to stop terrorists entering the US, but critics said it was a ban on Muslims.

The order was first signed in February, but was blocked by the courts. A revised order was halted by a judge in Hawaii just hours before it was supposed to go into force in March.

President Donald Trump called the court’s decision a “victory for our national security.