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Donald Trump Condemns Alt-Right Group for Celebrating His Victory with Nazi Salutes

Diane A. Wade
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Donald Trump Condemns Alt-Right Group for Celebrating His Victory with Nazi Salutes

President-elect Donald Trump has condemned the fringe “alt-right” group that celebrated his election victory with Nazi salutes.

In an interview with the New York Times, Donald Trump was quoted as saying: “I condemn them. I disavow, and I condemn.”

The president-elect said he did not want to “energize” the group, which includes neo-Nazis, white supremacists and anti-Semites.

Image source Flickr
Image source Flickr

Alt-right supporters were filmed on November 19 in Washington DC cheering as a speaker shouted: “Hail Trump.”

In the video, alt-right leader Richard Spencer told a conference that America belonged to white people, whom he described as “children of the sun”.

Richard Spencer denounced the movement’s critics as “the most despicable creatures who ever walked the planet”.

“Hail Trump, hail our people, hail victory!” he shouted at one point as some members of the audience raised their arms in the Nazi salute.

Last week’s gathering drew protesters who blocked traffic around the Ronald Reagan Building, a federally owned conference centre in the nation’s capital.

On November 22, German Chancellor Angela Merkel expressed concern that Donald Trump’s election victory could give succor to white supremacists.

A senior official close to Angela Merkel described the “Hail Trump” video as “repulsive and worrying”.

Lufthansa Strike: Almost 900 Flights Canceled and 100,000 Passengers Affected

Clyde K. Valle
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0
Lufthansa Strike: Almost 900 Flights Canceled and 100,000 Passengers Affected

Almost 900 Lufthansa flights have been canceled after the company lost an eleventh-hour legal bid to halt a pilots strike.

The two-day strike over pay began at midnight local time, with Lufthansa saying about 100,000 passengers will be affected.

Flights by Lufthansa’s other airlines including Eurowings, Swiss, Austrian Airlines, and Brussels Airlines are not affected, the company said.

The industrial action is part of a long-running pay dispute at Lufthansa.

Lufthansa pilots strike has triggered the cancelation of 1,511 flights

The pilots’ union, Vereinigung Cockpit, has organized 14 strikes since April 2014.

On November 22, Lufthansa made two legal challenges to halt the strike.

A Frankfurt labor court first rejected Lufthansa’s application for an injunction. Later in the evening, the Hesse state labor court rejected the airline’s appeal.

Pay talks between the Vereinigung union and Lufthansa broke down earlier this month, and Lufthansa said the union had “consistently rejected the offer” of mediation.

The Vereinigung is calling for a 3.7% pay rise for 5,400 pilots dating back to 2012.

Lufthansa, which is facing increasing competition from budget rivals, offered a 2.5% increase over the six years until 2019.

Meanwhile, a separate dispute with cabin crew at Lufthansa’s low-cost subsidiary, Eurowings, led it to cancel more than 60 flights on November 22.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6vHb1zBN_A

Brad Pitt FBI Investigation Closed with No Charges

Lisa.Felice
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Brad Pitt FBI Investigation Closed with No Charges

Brad Pitt will not be charged with any crime after an investigation into allegations involving his 15-year-old son Maddox, the FBI announced.

The actor had been accused of mistreating Maddox on board a private flight from France to LA.

Brad Pitt’s wife, Angelina Jolie, filed for divorce soon afterwards and is seeking sole custody of their six children.

Image source Wikipedia
Image source Wikipedia

Social workers investigating the same claim cleared Brad Pitt two weeks ago.

The FBI said: “In response to allegations made following a flight… carrying Mr. Brad Pitt and his children, the FBI has conducted a review of the circumstances and will not pursue further investigation.

“No charges have been filed in this matter.”

Brad Pitt, 52, is seeking joint legal and physical custody of the couple’s six children, three of whom were adopted by Angelina Jolie before the couple began dating in 2004.

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt married just two years ago, in a private ceremony at their estate in Provence.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJma1qOld7o

Barack Obama Praises Ellen DeGeneres for Gay Rights Influence at Medal of Freedom Award Ceremony

Sonia Pantiss
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0
Barack Obama Praises Ellen DeGeneres for Gay Rights Influence at Medal of Freedom Award Ceremony

Ellen DeGeneres was praised by President Barack Obama for her influence on the gay rights movement as she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Other celebrities including Tom Hanks, Robert De Niro and Michael Jordan were also among the 21 recipients of the country’s highest civilian honor.

President Obama said it was easy to forget the risk Ellen DeGeneres took to come out as gay in 1997.

During the award ceremony at the White House, he said Ellen DeGeneres’ bravery helped “push our country in the direction of justice”.ellen-degeneres-medal-of-freedom

“It’s easy to forget now, when we’ve come so far… just how much courage was required for Ellen to come out on the most public of stages almost 20 years ago,” President Obama said.

“What an incredible burden that was to bear – to risk your career like that – people don’t do that very often. And then, to have the hopes of millions on your shoulders.”

The Presidential Medal of Freedom, which recognizes contributions to United States culture, security and international interests, is the highest honor a civilian can receive, alongside the Congressional Gold Medal, a similar accolade awarded by the US Congress.

“These are folks who have helped make me who I am,” Barack Obama said.

“Everybody on this stage has touched me in a very powerful, personal way, in ways that they probably couldn’t imagine.”

Honorees from the entertainment world included Tom Hanks, Robert De Niro, Robert Redford and Cicely Tyson, as well as musicians Bruce Springsteen and Diana Ross.

From the sporting world, former basketball superstars Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Michael Jordan were awarded the medal, alongside sports broadcaster Vin Scully.

Bill and Melinda Gates were awarded for their philanthropic work through their charitable foundation.

Despite Barack Obama’s words on the contribution Ellen DeGeneres made to the country, she almost missed the ceremony after security refused to let her in to the White House.

Ellen DeGeneres tweeted alongside a photo of herself sitting on a nearby park bench: “They haven’t let me in to the White House yet because I forgot my ID.”

Hurricane Otto to Batter Costa Rica and Nicaragua

Nancy Clayson
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Hurricane Otto to Batter Costa Rica and Nicaragua

Caribbean storm Otto has been upgraded to a hurricane and is threatening Costa Rica and southern Nicaragua, forecasters say.

Forecasters warned that Hurricane Otto may have winds of 90 mph when it makes landfall early on November 24.

At least four people have already died in Panama in severe weather caused by the approach of the storm.

Otto is moving west at 2 mph after being almost stationary throughout November 22, experts say.hurricane-otto-2016

According to the US National Hurricane Center, Otto is now blowing at about 75 mph as it approaches northern Costa Rica and southern Nicaragua.

The storm is now centered east of Limon, Costa Rica. When it makes landfall on November 24 its heavy rain is expected to create numerous mudslides. It is then expected to cross over into the Pacific.

The Washington Post says that very few hurricanes have formed so late in the season – which ends on 30 November – and that across the Atlantic since 1851 only 35 storms have reached tropical storm intensity on or after November 15.

Earlier in Panama two people died in a mudslide; a girl drowned in a river and a boy died when a tree fell on a car taking him to school. His mother, who was driving, survived.

According to officials, about 50 homes were destroyed by mudslides and flights were delayed.

The governments of Nicaragua and Costa Rica have issued a hurricane watch from Costa Rica’s southern border to the city of Bluefields in Nicaragua.

There is also a likelihood of dangerous surf and rip current conditions over the next few days along the coasts of Panama, Costa Rica and Nicaragua, officials say.

Recommendation on hiring a mover

Kathryn R. Bown
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Recommendation on hiring a mover

Hiring a professional moving company is a responsible step that requires careful preparation. Lots of additional expenses and reasons for worrying can be easily avoided if address expert movers.

Main reasons you should always hire professional moving company

Packing, lifting, unloading can be a real nightmare. Who would want to handle all these grunt work by himself without assistance? Consider hiring a specialized company to avoid this stressful experience.expert-mover

  1. The first thing you should think about is your health as relocation means packing heavy things, lifting them, etc. moving accidents are every common while managing belongings. Moving can be challenging especially if you dealing with it for the first time and don’t have anyone around you with relevant experience. Such heavy items as beds, furniture require few people and, sometimes, the right equipment.  For sure, local moving companies are well-equipped and have relevant experience.
  2. Don’t try saving money by involving friends and relatives. You are risking alienating your friends and making relationship with relatives more tense.
  3. Hiring professional you will be saving yourself free time to handle other important tasks connected with your relocation like addressing utility services managing business-related matters, etc.
  4. Reliable companies have great level of service, best know their job and have necessary tools and equipment to make the moving process as painless as possible. Experts will have everything essential: means of transportation, boxes, moreover, they are familiar with disassembling and reassembling of all the furniture you have.
  5. Addressing a reputable company allows you to minimize costs in the long run as you won’t have to address third parties, mediators.
  6. All our stuff is being insured in case of being lost, stolen or broken.

How does the estimation process work?moving-company

After narrowing down your list of suitable companies to address and after completing a background check you are ready inviting representatives to your house to perform an estimation process. This is an important step that will indicate the cost of your relocation and also this is the right time to make deals and discuss discounts. Here are essential questions to ask during estimation procedure:

  • During estimation procedure it is important asking about provided services and additional charges that may include: additional packing services, specific equipment, parking, warehouse handling, shuttle and fuel charges, fees for disassembly of furniture pieces, flight charges, etc.;
  • Payment options are also vital. Make sure you don’t need making initial deposits. Note, that such company can’t request a deposit that exceeds 20% of the total cost of your moving;
  • Find out more about insurance and cancellation policy;
  • Available discounts and promotions are also useful. Off-peak season relocation can save you some money.

Hiring a professional moving company, surely, saves you a lot of time, money and energy as moving might be a real nightmare if dealt alone and without assistance.

Donald Trump Cancels NY Times Meeting, Then Changes His Mind

Diane A. Wade
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Donald Trump Cancels NY Times Meeting, Then Changes His Mind

President-elect Donald Trump has decided to cancel a meeting with the New York Times, a day after berating media chiefs at his headquarters for “unfair” coverage.

Without elaborating, Donald Trump tweeted that the New York Times had changed the terms of the meeting.

The president-elect posted: “They continue to cover me inaccurately and with a nasty tone!”

Donald Trump has had an antagonistic relationship with the press, railing against liberal bias, even while benefiting from blanket TV coverage.

On November 22, he tweeted that he had called off his meeting with what he always refers to as the “failing” New York Times.

Donald Trump – known to be an avid consumer of newspapers and news shows – said the New York Times had switched the terms at the last moment, adding: “Not nice.”

However, Jonathan Mahler, a political correspondent for the newspaper, tweeted that it was Donald Trump who had tried to change the rules of engagement.

Photo AP
Photo AP

Jonathan Mahler said Donald Trump had asked for the discussion to be private and off-the-record, but the daily had refused.

The New York Times said it had been unaware the meeting was canceled until Donald Trump tweeted.

Hours later, Hope Hicks, a Trump spokesperson, told reporters at Trump Tower that the meeting was back on.

The NY Times confirmed: “Mr. Trump’s staff has told us that the President Elect’s meeting with The Times is on again.

“He will meet with our publisher off-the-record and that session will be followed by an on-the-record meeting with our journalists and editorial columnists.”

On November 21, Donald Trump invited leading figures from the American TV networks for an off-the-record briefing at Trump Tower, where they were subjected to a tirade about election reporting.

The media executives and anchors – including NBC’s Lester Holt, CNN’s Wolf Blitzer and ABC’s George Stephanopoulos – were apparently expecting to discuss coverage of Donald Trump’s presidency.

But instead he reportedly labeled them “liars” and called journalists the “lowest form of humanity”.

One attendee leaked the details to the New York Post, saying: “The meeting was a total disaster.

“The TV execs and anchors went in there thinking they would be discussing the access they would get to the Trump administration, but instead they got a Trump-style dressing down.”

The New York Times reports that during Donald Trump’s complaint about “dishonest” coverage he singled out CNN president Jeffrey Zucker.

The Washington Post reported that Donald Trump also referred to NBC’s Katy Tur and ABC’s Martha Raddatz, without naming them.

Throughout his campaign Donald Trump accused the media of dishonesty, sometimes targeting individual journalists at his rallies and even denying some outlets accreditation to his events.

The Republican feuded with Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly, who later alleged that he had offered her gifts, including hotel stays, in an attempt to influence coverage.

Megyn Kelly said she was not the only journalist who had been offered freebies by Donald Trump.

Two weeks after his shock election victory, Donald Trump has yet to hold a news conference, and media outlets have griped that no president-elect has delayed holding a press briefing for so long since Jimmy Carter in 1976.

Three Magical Destinations for a Winter Cruise

Kathryn R. Bown
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Three Magical Destinations for a Winter Cruise

Winter is a magical time. With the hint of frost in the air, the smell of roasting chestnuts lingering on city streets, and the twinkle of Christmas lights at every corner, it is imbued with a cosy charm indoors and a glacial glory outside.

 

It’s a time to be indulgent. You have worked hard the whole year through, and now is the chance to finally treat yourself. Every shop window offers dazzling displays to choose from, and the Christmas presents are piling up at home.

Image source Bolsover Cruise Club
Image source Bolsover Cruise Club

 

Yet sometimes the most delicious treat of all is escaping your everyday life for a while, and spoiling yourself on a sumptuous winter cruise. Here, we look at three of the best destinations for those in need of a warm weather pick-me-up…

 

#1: Chile

 

For those in search of somewhere out of the ordinary, Chile is transcendental. A breath-taking wonderland of ethereal fjords, its waterways look like a scene taken straight from the pages of a fantasy novel: beautiful, unreal, and striking. Take an excursion into the countryside to see towering waterfalls and unspoilt landscapes stretching away as far as the eye can see, before diverting to one of the nation’s famed cities. Valparaiso, in particular, must be visited. Chile’s largest city, it spans the length and breadth of 45 undulating hills, each of them covered by an exquisitely eclectic mixture of high rises alongside quaint, brightly coloured traditional homes.

 

#2: The Amazon

 

The ultimate playground for cruise-goers, the Amazon is magnificent, massive, and meandering, and a journey down it will take you along some of the most stunning waterways in the world. Begin sailing in Brazil and you’ll soon find yourself immersed in a mecca of exotic animals and tropical birds. Macaws, toucans, and hummingbirds will fly above you as you cruise, with over 1,300 indigenous bird species to spot as you travel through the teeming rainforest. Don’t forget to embark once you reach Manaus, or else you risk missing some of the best-preserved Portuguese colonial buildings in the region, as well as charming waterside markets with all manner of delicacies to try.

 

#3: South Africa

 

South Africa is a paradisiacal winter cruise destination, and Cape Town, with towering Table Mountain looming above it, shrouded in ethereal mist, has to be one of the highlights for visitors to the area. Take a trip up in a cable car, and look down at a vista that will take your breath away. Once you’ve had your fill of the views, journey to the beautiful beach, or else explore the enchanting city itself. A jumble of green spaces and sumptuous shops, it offers the perfect complement to the wilderness you’ll discover once you venture outside of its boundaries.

 

What are you waiting for? Contact a company like Bolsover Cruise Club today to book your journey of a lifetime.

 

AMAs 2016: Gigi Hadid Apologizes for Melania Trump Joke

Sonia Pantiss
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AMAs 2016: Gigi Hadid Apologizes for Melania Trump Joke

American Music Awards co-host Gigi Hadid has apologized for her impression of Melania Trump at the ceremony.

Gigi Hadid wrote: “I apologize to anyone that I offended and have only the best wishes for our country.”

Melania Trump is set to become first lady in January when her husband takes up the US presidency.

Gigi Hadid imitated Melania Trump’s European accent, also making reference to claims Donald Trump’s wife copied a speech made by First Lady Michelle Obama.

Photo Getty Images
Photo Getty Images

“I removed or changed anything in the script that I felt took the joke too far, and whether or not you choose to see it, what remained was done in good humor and with no bad intent,” Gigi wrote.

“I too have been the centre of a nationally televised comedy skit that poked fun at my actions, and was able to find the humor in it.

“I believe Melania understands show business and the way shows are written and run.”

Gigi Hadid’s co-host, Jay Pharoah, called for people to “leave Gigi alone” and shared a message of support on his Instagram feed.

“Everybody pump on the brakes one minute,” he wrote.

“Over the last eight years the beautiful Michelle Obama has been the victim of excessive slurring.”

Reaction on the night to Gigi Hadid’s imitation of Melania Trump was mixed.

Other artists also used the event to pass comment about the forthcoming Trump presidency.

Green Day turned a performance of their track Bang Bang into an anti-Trump song.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTY5tScjoKQ

Marc Anthony and Shannon De Lima Divorce Comes After J Lo Kiss

Lisa.Felice
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Marc Anthony and Shannon De Lima Divorce Comes After J Lo Kiss

Shannon De Lima has filed for divorce from Marc Anthony after two years of marriage, TMZ reported.

The divorce news came hours after Marc Anthony and his ex-wife, Jennifer Lopez, shared a public kiss during November 17 Latin Grammys.

Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony shared an emotional reunion last night in Las Vegas as they took the stage together for their ¡Q'Viva! The Chosen show at the Mandalay Bay resort
Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony shared an emotional reunion last night in Las Vegas as they took the stage together for their ¡Q’Viva! The Chosen show at the Mandalay Bay resort

Marc Anthony and Shannon De Lima reportedly broke up sometime recently. They got married back in 2014, and have no children together.

During last week’s Latin Grammys Jennifer Lopez presented Marc Anthony with an award and then they kissed on the lips.

However, J Lo’s manager, Benny Medina, told TMZ they are “absolutely, categorically, 100% not back together”.

Marc Anthony and Shannon De Lima were last seen together publicly at his Madison Square Garden concert in August.

Ironically, J Lo was also there that night and performed a duet with her former husband.

J Lo and Marc Anthony married in June 2004 and announced their split in 2011. They have 8-year-old twins Maximilian David and Emme Maribel together. Their divorce was finalized in 2014, the same year Marc Anthony married Shannon De Lima.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w-X6V8Io8o4

TPP Trade Deal: Donald Trump Says US Will Quit Pact on His First Day in White House

Clyde K. Valle
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TPP Trade Deal: Donald Trump Says US Will Quit Pact on His First Day in White House

Donald Trump has announced the United States will quit the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade deal on his first day in the White House.

The president-elect made the announcement in a video message outlining what he intends to do first when he takes office in January.

The TPP trade deal was signed by 12 countries which together cover 40% of the world’s economy.

Donald Trump also pledged to reduce “job-killing restrictions” on coal production and stop visa abuses.

However, there was no mention of repealing ObamaCare or building a wall on the southern border with Mexico, two actions Donald Trump said during the campaign he would do as soon as he assumed power.

During the presidential election campaign, Donald Trump gave broadbrush arguments against the TPP deal, and used plenty of colorful language.

In June 2016, Donald Trump described it as “another disaster done and pushed by special interests who want to rape our country, just a continuing rape of our country”. In another speech he referred to the TPP as “the greatest danger yet”.

While there was plenty of talk about “taking back control” of the US economy, there were few specifics.

Announcing the plan to pull out of the TPP, Donald Trump said that the US would “negotiate fair, bilateral trade deals that bring jobs and industry back onto American shores”.

In the video message, Donald Trump said his governing agenda would be based on “putting America first” and that he and the new administration would “bring back our jobs”.

Besides quitting the TPP, Donald Trump committed to several other executive actions that he said he would take on day one.

The president-elect said he would cancel restrictions on US energy production.

Image source Flickr
Image source Flickr

In 2015, President Barack Obama brought in the Clean Power Plan, an anti-climate change measure which aimed to reduce carbon emissions from the power sector by 32% by 2030 compared with 2005 levels.

The Clean Power Plan, already on hold due to legal challenges, would have restricted coal power plants and came up against strong opposition in areas where leaders said the plans would devastate local economies.

Donald Trump said: “I will cancel job-killing restrictions on the production of American energy, including shale energy and clean coal, creating many millions of high-paying jobs.

“That’s what we want – that’s what we’ve been waiting for.”

The president-elect, a real estate mogul himself, has been strongly opposed to business regulations throughout his campaign. He blamed them for stifling business. A month before the election, he said that if he won, 70% of regulations could be axed, but safety and environmental rules would stay.

Now Donald Trump has pledged that for every new regulation brought into force, two old regulations will be eliminated.

Political leaders in Asia in particular have reacted strongly.

Japan’s PM Shinzo Abe said the TPP would be “meaningless” without the involvement of the US.

New Zealand’s PM John Key said the US was “not an island”.

Economist Harumi Taguchi said China could move in to fill the “void” left by the deal’s collapse.

However, Malaysia’s PM Najib Razak said it was President-elect Donald Trump’s right “to make the policy decisions he thinks right”.

Kanye West Hospitalized After Canceling Tour Dates

Sonia Pantiss
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Kanye West Hospitalized After Canceling Tour Dates

According to recent reports, Kanye West has been hospitalized following an emergency services call.

Police say they had received a “disturbance call” on Monday afternoon, November 21, but did not name the singer.

The disturbance was later deemed a medical incident and the fire department responded.

A spokesman for the LA Fire Department said an unnamed man had been taken to hospital for “further assessment”.

“At 13:20 Pacific Time, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to an unspecified medical aid request,” a spokesperson for the service said.

“An adult male described as medically stable was taken to an area hospital for further assessment.”

Further details of the incident naming Kanye West varied in conflicting reports from multiple news sources.

Photo Getty Images
Photo Getty Images

According to NBC News, officers had been responding to a “medical welfare call” and the decision to hospitalize the rapper was for his own health and safety, citing “multiple authorities familiar with the case”.

TMZ reported that Kanye West was taken to hospital for “psychiatric evaluation” and had been seeking treatment for “severe sleep deprivation”.

The Los Angeles Times said that there had been a 911 call from the address, citing a fire department source.

Neither Kanye West nor his representatives have made an official statement about the incident.

Before news broke of Kanye West’s hospital treatment, his mother-in-law, Kris Jenner, spoke to media about his reasons for canceling his shows.

Kris Jenner told Extra show: “He’s exhausted, he’s just really tired. He’s had a grueling tour and it’s been a grind so he just needs some rest.”

Some celebrities took to social media to voice their concern and offer well wishes to Kanye West.

Rapper 9th Wonder tweeted: “Been knowing the brother upwards of 13 years. Mental healing is a serious thing, no matter what. Stay strong Kanye West.”

Comedian Ronald Funches wrote: “I wish Kanye West love and support through his journey. Mental health is no joke and a constant battle and I hope he makes more dope music.”

Kim Kardashian was expected to appear at a NYC social event on November 21 – her first public appearance since she was robbed in Paris in October – but she did not attend.

Kanye West had canceled all remaining dates on his current tour after abandoning a Sacramento performance at the weekend.

The rapper had performed just three songs on Saturday night, November 19, before embarking on an unscripted rant, criticizing Beyonce and Jay Z, Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg and Hillary Clinton.

Kanye West criticized Mark Zuckerberg for failing to give him $53 million to get out of debt and said he was hurt that Jay Z failed to visit his family after last month’s robbery.

The rapper then appeared to suggest that Jay Z employed hit men, saying: “Jay Z, I know you got killers, please don’t send them at my head.”

“Get ready to have a field day, press, because the show’s over,” Kanye West said, as he dropped his microphone and walked out.

Kanye West’s promoter, Live Nation, has announced refunds for all tickets from the show.

No reason has been given for the cancelation of the remaining dates.

Chattanooga School Bus Crash Kills at Least Six Children

Nancy Clayson
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Chattanooga School Bus Crash Kills at Least Six Children

A Tennessee school bus driver was arrested and faces charges including vehicular homicide after deadly crash that killed at least six children, Chattanooga police said in a news conference.

The school bus, carrying children aged five to 10, crashed at about 16:00 local time on November 21.

Images from the scene showed the bus wrapped around a tree, with its metal roof split in two.

Chattanooga police Chief Fred Fletcher said that 24-year-old Johnthony Walker was charged with five counts of vehicular homicide.

Photo AP
Photo AP

Johnthony Walker was also charged with reckless driving and reckless endangerment.

“Speed is being investigated very very strongly as a factor in this crash,” Fred Fletcher said.

He said it was a complicated crime scene, but conditions “appeared to be clear and dry”.

Investigators believe the bus may have hit a utility pole before colliding with the tree, the police chief added.

Johnthony Walker, who survived the crash, was being questioned and was co-operating with investigators, police said.

A spokeswoman for the district attorney said five children were found dead on board the bus after the crash, and another child had died in hospital.

She said 35 children had been on board the bus. Chattanooga Fire Department also said 23 children had been taken to hospital by ambulance.

Local blood bank Blood Assurance called for blood donations following the crash.

A reporter for the local news channel tweeted that queues to donate were “out the door” and the office was taking appointments for the following morning.

Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke asked concerned parents to go to the elementary school for information, and not the crash site.

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

APEC 2016: Asia-Pacific Leaders Defend TPP Despite Donald Trump’s Election Victory

Clyde K. Valle
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0
APEC 2016: Asia-Pacific Leaders Defend TPP Despite Donald Trump’s Election Victory

APEC leaders have said they will pursue free trade deals despite Donald Trump’s election victory.

During the campaign, Donald Trump called for greater protection for US jobs and said he would tear up the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) – the biggest multinational trade deal in years.

After a two-day summit in Peru, leaders of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation defended the benefits of open markets.

China also claimed growing support for a wider 21-nation trade deal it backs.

In a statement at the end of the summit the APEC leaders said: “We reaffirm our commitment to keep our markets open and to fight against all forms of protectionism.”

It also referred to the “rising skepticism over trade”, after the uneven recovery since the financial crisis had caused more people to question whether globalization worked for enough people.

However, the leaders said that the “the benefits of trade and open markets need to be communicated to the wider public more effectively, emphasizing how trade promotes innovation, employment and higher living standards”.apec-peru-2016

The TPP pact involves 12 countries: the US, Japan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, Brunei, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Mexico, Chile and Peru.

It aims to deepen economic ties between these nations, slashing tariffs and fostering trade to boost growth.

Donald Trump said the proposal was a “terrible deal” that would send American jobs to countries with cheaper labor.

The agreement must be ratified in the US Congress, which remains in the hands of Donald Trump’s party – meaning it’s expected to fail.

Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton had also opposed the pact.

After the APEC summit, President Barack Obama reiterated his support for the pact, saying not going ahead would undermine the US position across Asia Pacific.

Barack Obama warned he was already hearing calls for a less ambitious trade agreement that would exclude US workers and businesses.

“When it comes to trade, I believe the answer is not to pull back,” he said.

“The answer is to do trade right, making sure it has strong labor standards, strong environmental standards, that it addresses ways in which workers and ordinary people can benefit rather than be harmed by global trade.”

However, while some leaders think the TPP could go ahead without the US, others say it would be impossible without a complete renegotiation.

Over the weekend, New Zealand PM John Key suggested there could be minor changes to the agreement that would give Donald Trump enough wiggle room to support it, without losing face.

Meanwhile Peruvian President Pedro Pablo said the TPP should not be written off, despite Donald Trump’s win.

China – which is not part of the TPP – has set out an alternative vision for regional trade.

Its proposal, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), does not include the Americas.

After the APEC summit, Beijing said several nations including Peru and Chile had expressed interest in joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCTaXH8VNPQ

How to Effectively Structure an Online IT Meeting

Nancy Clayson
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How to Effectively Structure an Online IT Meeting

Giving an effective meeting is a matter of planning and practice. When done correctly, a video conference is one of the best ways to bring teams together and actually accomplish something. When meetings are done wrong – and they can find so many ways to go wrong – it’s a demoralizing, work-blocking mess that everyone hates. Take some tips on structuring your next video conference, and you’ll find that your meetings have momentum. With IT, you usually don’t have to remind people to test their connections beforehand, nor are reminders to update the app generally needed. However, for meeting novices, it’s a good idea to put some structure in place.

 

Structure

The Harvard Business Review notes that effective meetings have effective agendas, whether they are videoconferences or location meetings. Designing an effective agenda takes several steps.

 

  • Decide on the purpose of the meeting. Whether you will be running an informative meeting, are seeking input, or coming to a decision needs to be made clear.
  • Invite only those who have something to contribute to the meeting or something to gain from meeting and seek their input.
  • Keep the meeting to topics that affect everyone in attendance allocate a reasonable amount of time in the agenda.
  • List a definitive start time, the amount of time that will be devoted to your topics, and question and answer periods. You should also list a definitive time that the meeting will adjourn so that people can schedule the rest of their day.
  • Specify topic leaders and discussion moderators in advance. These people will be responsible for leading the discussion of their assigned topic.

    Image source Wikimedia
    Image source Wikimedia

 

Setting

When you are running a business video meeting for IT, you may have multiple participants signing in and attending from remote locations using the BlueJeans app. Sometimes the locations from which they will be less than ideal. Here are a few tips when talking about appropriate settings.

 

  • Ideally the locations should be quiet, well lit, and free of noise and distractions. Conference rooms are ideally suited for this purpose, however riding the Wi-Fi at your local coffee house may be more distracting to other participants than you think. If you have absolutely no other place to sign in remotely, consider using your car – it’s quiet and well lit.
  • Your background should be stationary, especially if you are the one speaking. A mobile background such as a curtain or street scene will distract from what you are saying.
  • Make sure that the lighting shows the speakers faces clearly and without distracting shadows. Glare and uneven lighting can be fixed by pulling the shades and removing any glass framed wall art. Northwestern University also recommends not mixing sunlight and fluorescent light in order to protect the quality of images.
  • Do make sure that the camera is positioned in order to show the speaker’s face. Weird camera angles distract viewers. The point of a videoconference is to get that face time, not to look up someone’s nose.

 

Etiquette

  • Make sure that attendees know when to arrive and sign on. Make it clear that past a certain point latecomers will not be admitted. This is to avoid disrupting speakers and the meeting schedule in order to catch someone up. Advised that a video copy of the meeting and appropriate documents will be archived.
  • When hosting a meeting with people in multiple locations, speakers should introduce themselves both by name and location.
  • Ask that everyone keep their microphones muted unless they are speaking at the time. Otherwise everybody will hear coughing, shifting, paper rustling, and other distracting noises.
  • Dress appropriately for the crowd. For meetings with the CIO or a new client, office attire is appropriate. For less formal meetings, one may go with office casual. Only those who know each other very well should show up to a meeting and what they would wear to a beach barbecue.
  • Pay attention. Don’t check your email. Don’t text. Don’t play Candy Crush. Take notes. Participate. And ask questions.

 

After the videoconference, the meeting video should be archived and made accessible to participants for follow-up. This includes all documents used in the meeting, as well as any minutes or transcriptions that are made. Follow-up with an action plan that is emailed to all participants, and check that everyone is doing their appropriate follow-up. Appoint someone to take the lead in doing the follow-up and making sure that everyone is on track.

 

Successful meetings mean that the topics discussed, and the actions planned are actually followed up on and carried out. It’s easy for team members to lose momentum once they are back in their workspaces and catching up. Making meetings effective, easy to attend, and easy to follow up with is the key to giving great meetings that motivate and even inspire. Get your team on the same page by using video conferencing in the most effective manner possible.

Barack Obama to Challenge Donald Trump After Leaving Office

Diane A. Wade
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0
Barack Obama to Challenge Donald Trump After Leaving Office

President Barack Obama has said he may speak out, against tradition, after leaving office if he feels Donald Trump is threatening core American values.

By convention, former presidents tend to leave the political fray and avoid commenting on their successors.

President Obama said he would give Donald Trump time to outline his vision but added that, as a private citizen, he might speak out on certain issues.

President-elect Donald Trump spent the weekend interviewing candidates for top jobs in his cabinet.

Speaking at a forum in Lima, Peru, President Obama said: “I want to be respectful of the office and give the president-elect an opportunity to put forward his platform and his arguments without somebody popping off.”

However, President Obama added, if an issue “goes to core questions about our values and our ideals, and if I think that it’s necessary or helpful for me to defend those ideals, then I’ll examine it when it comes”.

Barack Obama described himself as an “American citizen who cares deeply about our country”.Donald Trump criticized by Barack Obama

Speaking at a news conference to mark the end of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, President Obama reiterated that he would extend to Donald Trump’s incoming administration the same professional courtesy shown to his team by his predecessor George W. Bush.

George W. Bush has refrained since leaving office from commenting on Barack Obama’s presidency.

“I don’t think it does any good,” President Bush told CNN in 2013, after Barack Obama was elected for a second time.

“It’s a hard job. He’s got plenty on his agenda. It’s difficult. A former president doesn’t need to make it any harder. Other presidents have taken different decisions; that’s mine.”

George W. Bush’s stance falls in line with tradition. US presidents tend to avoid criticizing predecessors or successors. Barack Obama was clear that he would not weigh in on Donald Trump’s decisions while he was still in office.

However, his suggestion that, as a private citizen, he would seek to defend “core values” comes amid mounting concern among civil rights groups and others about Donald Trump’s political appointments.

Donald Trump’s chief strategist, Steve Bannon, was previously the head of Breitbart, a website accused of promoting racism and anti-Semitism.

His national security adviser, Gen. Michael Flynn, has previously likened Islam to a “cancer” spreading through the US.

Jeff Sessions, Donald Trump’s nominee for attorney general, lost the chance to become a federal judge in 1986 because of allegedly racist remarks.

President Obama said he believed the intense responsibility of the presidency would force Donald Trump to moderate some of the more extreme policy positions he had advocated during his campaign.

On November 20, Donald Trump indicated he had made more selections after a weekend of interviews at his golf resort in New Jersey, saying: “We really had some great meetings, and you’ll be hearing about them soon.”

He has confirmed he is considering retired Marine Corps Gen. James Mattis for the role of defense secretary, calling him “very impressive” in a tweet. He also met former critic Mitt Romney, who is now being considered for secretary of state.

The incoming president also says that his wife, Melania, and their 10-year-old son Barron will not move into the White House straight away. They would move “very soon, right after he finishes school”, he said. The school year runs from late August or early September until late May or June.

Barack Obama, meanwhile, said his first priority after leaving office was to take Michelle on vacation and “get some rest, spend time with my girls and do some writing, do some thinking”.

Asked about the failure of the Democratic Party’s campaign under Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama criticized the “micro-targeting” of “particular, discrete groups”, arguing there should have been an effort to reach out to the entire country.

Hillary Clinton has been criticized for focusing her energy on certain demographics, including Latinos and women, who were believed to support her, at the expense of a more inclusive campaign.

That approach “is not going to win you the broad mandate that you need”, Barack Obama said, adding that the party needed a “smarter message”.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCTaXH8VNPQ

Kanye West Cuts Short Sacramento Concert After Performing Only 3 Songs

Sonia Pantiss
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0
Kanye West Cuts Short Sacramento Concert After Performing Only 3 Songs

Kanye West angered his fans by cutting short a Sacramento concert after performing only three songs.

He ended the show after ranting on stage and then walking off.

Kanye West had a go at Beyonce and Jay Z, as well as Taylor Swift, Hillary Clinton and Mark Zuckerberg.

The rapper was only three songs into his concert last night – which is part of his Saint Pablo Tour – before he stopped to air his views.

Photo Instagram
Photo Instagram

“Get ready to have a field day press because the show’s over,” Kanye West said before dropping his mic as the crowd booed.

It’s not clear what the exact point of Kanye West’s latest monologue was, but part of it was directed at Beyonce – who hasn’t responded in any way.

Kanye West accused Beyonce of not wanting to perform at the MTV Video Music Awards earlier this year unless she won an award.

“Beyonce I was hurt because I heard you said you wouldn’t perform unless you won video of the year over me,” he said.

The rapper brought Kid Cudi on stage to perform Father Stretch My Hands and Waves, but fans were disappointed when the concert was cut short.

It’s only two nights since Kanye West told the audience at a concert in San Jose that if he had voted in the elections it would have been for Donald Trump.

Kim Kardashian’s husband was booed then too and despite the fact fans are used to his outbursts it’s prompted some to question the rapper’s actions.

After venting at Beyonce, Kanye West then appeared to be annoyed with her husband for not phoning him.

“Jay Z, call me, bruh. You still ain’t call me Jay Z, call me,” he pleaded.

“Just call me. Talk to me like a man.”

Some in the audience had had enough and many tweeted about wanting their money back.

Kanye West did concede that he didn’t particularly want to upset anyone.

“Now, don’t go trying to diss Beyonce, she is great. Taylor Swift is great,” he said.

“We are all great people, we are all equal. But sometimes, we be playing the politics too much and forgetting who we are just to win.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lAin15lq1nQ

The Top 10 Car Movies

Dana R
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The Top 10 Car Movies

For all of the car enthusiasts out there, this is for YOU! MyImprov.com picks the TOP 10 Movies of all time, starring your favorite actor, THE CAR.

car-movies

The Love Bug (1968)

The Love Bug is a classic live-action Disney story about a racecar driver, Jim, and his mechanic, Tennessee, who come into possession of an adorable white Volkswagen Beetle, named Herbie, that has a mind of its own.  The duo gain buzz among the racing circuit.  This upsets a sports car dealer named Peter and he has his assistant try to come between the duo and their magical car.  Comedic fun ensues that is appropriate for the whole family.

Vanishing Point (1971)

Vanishing Point is about a Vietnam War hero turned drug addict driver for hire named Kowalski.  While transporting a Dodge Challenger from Colorado to California, he decided to make the trip more interesting by making a wager with his drug dealer.  He bet that he could complete the trip in less than 15 hours and if he succeeds, his most recent drug pick up would be free.  His crazy driving resulted in a police chase, which was highly publicized and Kowalski’s refusal to pull over turned him into a symbol of freedom for spectators. This movie easily became a cult classic.

Gone in 60 Seconds (1974)

Gone in 60 Seconds is a story about an insurance investigator by day/professional car thief by night named Maindrian Pace, who is hired by a South American drug lord to steal 48 cars in five days for $400,000.  He accepts the job, thinking that it would be easy money for himself and his group, until he gets found out.  After stealing a ’71 Ford Mustang, named Eleanor, in Long Beach, the police suddenly pop up and he ends up in a car chase throughout Southern California.

Smokey and the Bandit (1977)

At the time that this movie was released, it was illegal to sell Coors beer east of the Mississippi without a permit.  This was an issue for Big Enos, as he wanted to be able to drink Coors beer at a truck show.  Bandit agrees to pick up some Coors beer in Texas and drive it back to Georgia for the truck show within 28 hours.  Fans may recognize top Texas tourist attractions while the bandit drives through the state with a hitchhiker named Carrie, who joins him in his journey.  This is noticed by Sheriff Justice, who is angry at Carrie for rejecting his son, and embarks on a high-speed chase after Bandit.  The Pontiac Firebirth Trans Am used in the movie is an absolute classic.

Christine (1983)

The movie Christine is based on the popular book by same name, written by Stephen King, the master of horror.  In the story, a nerdy guy named Arnie purchases a 1958 Plymouth Fury and names it Christine.  Arnie ends up becoming obsessed with Christine and this concerns his friend, Dennis.  Eventually, Christine is defaced by a bully named Buddy and Christine restores herself to perfect condition and goes on a killing spree, progressively killing Buddy and his friends.  To stop the killing spree, Dennis and Arnie’s girlfriend, Leigh, decide that Christine must be destroyed!  This movie is an absolute must for all Stephen King/horror fans.

Back to the Future (1985)

In this Sci-fi classic, an experiment by the peculiar and eccentric scientist, Doc Brown, goes wrong and Marty McFly is taken back in time to 1950’s on Doc’s DeLorean time machine.  While back in time, Marty runs into the younger versions of his parents and alters the space/time continuum.  He must make sure that his parents fall in love, while dealing with a bully, or else he will cease to exist.  In addition, he must help the younger Doc Brown get him back to the future.  This is not your typical car movie, but the DeLorean is a time machine, so none of the other cars from the list can really compete.

The Fast and the Furious (2001)

The Fast and the Furious is an adrenaline filled movie following the drama of the illegal underground street racing scene.  Brian is an undercover police officer, investigating a case involving big-rig hijacking and Dominic and his rival, Johnny Tran, are the main suspects.  After portraying himself as a newcomer to the racing scene, Brian shows Dom that he can be trusted and infiltrates their group.  The situation becomes complicated as Brian tries to do his job while building a relationship with Dom and his sister, Mia.  The movie is filled with tons of fast-paced racing action and beautiful tricked out cars and became so popular that it fueled a series of movies that are still being made today.

The Italian Job (2003)

During a successful heist in Venice, one of the thieves, Steve, turns on the rest of the group, kills the ringleader John, and keeps all of the gold for himself.  The remainder of the group, Charlie, Handsome Rob, Left Ear, and Lyle, vow to get revenge on Steven by stealing the gold back and enlist John’s daughter, Stella, to get the job done.  The heist was achieved using three adorable Mini Coopers.  They may be small, but they got the job done!

Cars (2006)

Cars is a Pixar animated film about a racecar named Lightning McQueen who gets lost, after falling out of his trailer, on his way to the Piston Cup.  He finds himself in a rundown small town called Radiator Springs.  During his stay in the small town, he slowly befriends the residents and finds that winning is not the most important thing in the world.  It is a great movie for the whole family.

Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby (2006)

This is the hilarious story of a NASCAR star named Ricky Bobby who has hordes of fans, is wealthy, and has a trophy wife at home.  He ends up losing it all and must pull himself out of despair and return to his former glory with the help of his father.  This movie is a favorite of anybody that loves Will Ferrell’s brand of comedy and it is extremely quotable.  “If you ain’t first, you’re last!”

Nicolas Sarkozy Admits Defeat in Presidential Primary

Diane A. Wade
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0
Nicolas Sarkozy Admits Defeat in Presidential Primary

France’s former President Nicolas Sarkozy has been knocked out of the first round of the conservatives’ primary to choose the presidential candidate of the center-right Republican party.

Admitting defeat, Nicolas Sarkozy endorsed Francois Fillon, a moderate who finished first in November 20 first round, according to near-complete results.

Nicolas Sarkozy has announced his return to French politics
Nicolas Sarkozy has announced his return to French politics

Alain Juppe, who like Francois Fillon is an ex-prime minister, finished second.

They will face each other in a run-off on November 27. The winner will compete in next year’s presidential election.

The winner of the Republican primary is likely to make the presidential run-off, where he or she will probably face far-right leader Marine Le Pen.

With the governing socialists unpopular and divided, it seems unlikely that any left-wing candidate will survive the first round in April.

Polls currently suggest that the center-right candidate would win the second round in May.

Angela Merkel to Run for Fourth Term in Office

Diane A. Wade
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0
Angela Merkel to Run for Fourth Term in Office

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has announced that she will run for a fourth term in office.

Speaking at a meeting of her Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in Berlin, Angela Merkel said she expected her toughest campaign to date, and vowed to “fight for our values and our way of life”.

General elections are expected in Germany in 2017.

Angela Merkel’s poll ratings have slipped since the height of her popularity but she retains wide support.Angela Merkel on migrant crisis

The center-right chancellor, who has been in office since 2005, is being challenged by the populist right-wing AfD party.

Angela Merkel announced she would stand again after meeting party leaders at CDU headquarters.

She told reporters that the decision to run for a fourth term had been “anything but trivial after 11 years in office”.

Angela Merkel added that she expected challenges from both the right and the left of the political spectrum.

In September, she accepted responsibility for election defeats for the CDU in several states and conceded that her open-door policy towards migrants was a factor.

Germany expected up to 300,000 refugees to arrive in the country in 2016, the head of the country’s federal office for migration and refugees said earlier this year.

In 2015, Germany received more than a million applications for asylum.

A pastor’s daughter who grew up in communist East Germany, Angela Merkel has run the united country since 2005.

If she wins next year’s elections, Angela Merkel would equal the post-war record set by Helmut Kohl, who was chancellor from 1982 to 1998.

Germany does not have term limits on the country’s top job.

 

India Train Derailment Death Toll Rises to 115

Nancy Clayson
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0
India Train Derailment Death Toll Rises to 115

According to Indian police, the death toll following the derailment of a train in Uttar Pradesh state has reached at least 115, with more than 150 injured.

Fourteen carriages of the Indore-Patna Express derailed just after 03:00 local time on November 20, near the city of Kanpur.

Rescuers are still trying to reach the injured and recover the dead from the twisted carriages.

The cause of the crash near the village of Pukhrayan is not yet known.

Image source Times of India
Image source Times of India

The Times of India quoted sources as saying a fracture in the track could have been to blame.

The death toll has been rising steadily all day and is expected to increase further.

Most of the victims were located in two carriages near the engine which overturned and were badly damaged.

By late afternoon, rescue workers were still using heavy machinery to try to reach survivors.

Senior railway official Pratap Rai told Reuters: “We are using every tactic to save lives but it’s very difficult to cut the metal carriages.”

Indian PM Narendra Modi tweeted: “Anguished beyond words on the loss of lives due to the derailing of the Patna-Indore express. My thoughts are with the bereaved families.

“Prayers with those injured in the tragic train accident.”

The prime minister said he had spoken to Railways Minister Suresh Prabhu, who was “personally monitoring the situation closely”.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh said that India’s National Disaster Response Force was overseeing the rescue efforts.

Kanpur is a major railway junction and hundreds of trains pass through it every day.

Train accidents are fairly common in India, where much of the railway equipment is out of date. An accident in Uttar Pradesh in March 2015 killed 39 people and injured 150.

In 2015, the government announced investments of $137 billion over five years to modernize and expand the railways.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0bLX8GMBo0

Mike Pence Confirms Mitt Romney Is Considered for Secretary of State

Diane A. Wade
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0
Mike Pence Confirms Mitt Romney Is Considered for Secretary of State

Mike Pence has confirmed that Donald Trump is considering Mitt Romney for the post of secretary of state, among others.

The VP-elect’s statement, in a Fox News interview, comes after President-elect Donald Trump met Mitt Romney, a Republican who criticized him during the campaign.

There has been speculation that the post of secretary of state was discussed.

Neither man gave details of their meeting on November 20. Mitt Romney said talks had been “far-reaching”.

Photo Facebook
Photo Facebook

Mitt Romney, who ran an unsuccessful campaign against Barack Obama in 2012, met Donald Trump at the president-elect’s golf course in Bedminster, New Jersey.

Mike Pence told the Fox News Sunday: “It was a warm and a substantive exchange and I know he is under active consideration to be secretary of state (…) along with some other distinguished Americans.”

In March, during the Republican primary race, Mitt Romney said Donald Trump had neither “the temperament nor the judgement to be president”, accusing him of bullying, misogyny and dishonesty.

“Prospects for a safe and prosperous future are greatly diminished” if Donald Trump became the nominee, Mitt Romney said.

Donald Trump responded by mocking Mitt Romney, calling him a “failed candidate” and a “choke artist”.

However, media have suggested that the role of secretary of state could be up for grabs. In the past, Mitt Romney has taken a far more critical line on Russia than that suggested by Donald Trump.

Donald Trump has settled several posts so far, a number of them controversial.

Mike Pence was asked about the way he was treated when attending a performance of the Broadway musical Hamilton on November 18.

The audience booed Mike Pence and a cast member read out a letter saying “diverse America” was “alarmed and anxious” at the future administration.

Mike Pence told Fox News Sunday that he was relaxed about it and had said to his daughter during the incident: “That’s what freedom sounds like.”

Hamilton won the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, along with 11 Tony awards for live theater. Tickets to the show are the most coveted on Broadway, sometimes changing hands for thousands of dollars.

India Train Derailment Kills at Least 100 Near Kanpur

Nancy Clayson
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0
India Train Derailment Kills at Least 100 Near Kanpur

At least 100 people are reported dead following the derailment of a train in India’s northern Uttar Pradesh state, with more than 150 injured, police say.

Fourteen carriages of the Indore-Patna Express derailed just after 03:00 local time on November 20 near the city of Kanpur.

Rescuers are still trying to reach the injured and recover the dead from the twisted carriages.

The cause of the crash near the village of Pukhrayan is not yet known.

Most of the victims were located in two carriages near the engine which overturned and were badly damaged.

Image source Times of India
Image source Times of India

By afternoon, rescue workers were still using heavy machinery to try to reach survivors.

Senior railway official Pratap Rai told Reuters: “We are using every tactic to save lives but it’s very difficult to cut the metal carriages.”

One passenger whose carriage did not derail told the Associated Press the train was going at normal speed. It stopped suddenly, said Satish Kumar, then restarted shortly before the crash.

Many anxious relatives gathered at the station in Indore, where the train began its journey, holding pictures of loved ones, the Times of India reported.

Indian PM Narendra Modi tweeted: “Anguished beyond words on the loss of lives due to the derailing of the Patna-Indore express. My thoughts are with the bereaved families.

“Prayers with those injured in the tragic train accident.”

Narendra Modi said he had spoken to Railways Minister Suresh Prabhu, who was “personally monitoring the situation closely”.

On his own Twitter account, Suresh Prabhu warned that “strictest possible action will be taken against those who could be responsible for accident”.

Suresh Prabhu said an investigation into the crash would begin immediately and compensation would be paid to “unfortunate passengers who died and to injured”.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0bLX8GMBo0

Choi Soon-sil Scandal: President Park Geun-hye Had Role in Corruption Scandal

Diane A. Wade
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0
Choi Soon-sil Scandal: President Park Geun-hye Had Role in Corruption Scandal

According to South Korean prosecutors, President Park Geun-hye had a “considerable” role in a corruption scandal involving her close confidante Choi Soon-sil.

Speaking after Choi Soon-sil and two of Prak Geun-hye’s aides were charged, Chief Prosecutor Lee Young-ryeol said the president was “involved as a conspirator” but was immune from prosecution.

Park Geun-hye has faced huge protests and opponents have urged her to quit.

The prosecutor said she would be questioned soon.

Image source Wikimedia
Image source Wikimedia

Park Geun-hye, whose approval rating has dropped to 5%, has apologized twice on national TV but has so far resisted calls to resign.

Her office had no comment on November 20. She has previously pledged to cooperate in the investigation but resisted prosecutors’ plans to question her last week, Reuters reported.

South Korea’s parliament has approved a bill to appoint a special prosecutor, who will take over the case from state prosecutors.

South Koreans have reacted angrily to the revelations. The country has witnessed the largest protests since the pro-democracy demonstrations of the 1980s.

Organizers said as many as 500,000 people attended a candlelit rally in the capital this weekend, which brought streets to a standstill for the fourth consecutive Saturday. Police put the figure far lower.

Park Geun-hye is facing growing calls to resign over the scandal. Opposition figures may attempt to impeach her if she refuses to resign in order to protect her immunity.

Choi Soon-sil is accused of trying to extort huge sums of money from South Korean companies, and suspected of using her friendship with Park Geun-hye to solicit business donations for a non-profit fund she controlled.

Also indicted was Ahn Jong-beom, Park Geun-hye’s former senior secretary for policy coordination. Ahn Jong-beom was charged with abuse of authority, coercion and attempted coercion.

The second aide to be charged was Jung Ho-sung, accused of passing classified presidential documents to Choi Spoon-sil, including information on ministerial candidates.

Donald Trump Meets with Fierce Critic Mitt Romney

Diane A. Wade
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0
Donald Trump Meets with Fierce Critic Mitt Romney

Donald Trump has met Mitt Romney, with reports suggesting he may be considered for secretary of state.

Mitt Romney was one of Donald Trump’s fiercest critics during the election campaign.

Neither man gave details of their 80-minute meeting on November 19.

Mitt Romney said the talks had been “far-reaching”.Mitt Romney Donald Trump indictment

During the campaign, Mitt Romney called Donald Trump a “fraud”, while Trump said Romney’s unsuccessful presidential bid in 2012 had been “the worst ever”.

Donald Trump has settled several posts so far, a number of them controversial.

The nominee for attorney general, Jeff Sessions, was rejected from becoming a federal judge in 1986 because of alleged racist remarks.

Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn, the new national security adviser, has drawn concern over his strident views on Islam.

On leaving Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster, New Jersey, Mitt Romney did not answer questions on whether he would accept a cabinet position, or whether he still thought his host was “a con artist”.

Mitt Romney said only that they had held a “far-reaching conversation with regards to the various theatres of the world” in which the US had an interest.

Donald Trump will conduct more meetings with potential appointees at the golf course over the weekend.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHHgxWsRTp4

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