Tuesday, February 17, 2026
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Things We All Avoid Doing (That We Really Shouldn’t)

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We’re all supposed to be grown-up, responsible adults, right? We shouldn’t be finding any aspect of a healthy, responsible lifestyle unappealing anymore. It’s not like back when we were kids and we’d cry at the idea of having to eat our greens. We’ve got more sense than that now… right?

Well, I don’t know about you, but in my experience, there are still plenty of things we still avoid doing. We know we should do them, but we avoid them because they sound uncomfortable and unfun. Here are some examples.

Going to the dentist

It was much easier going to the dentist when I was a kid. Of course, that’s only because my mother made me go to the dentist at least twice a year. I didn’t have a say in the matter. As soon as I was all grown up and got my own place, I started shirking this responsibility somewhat. My dentist visits declined quite dramatically.

dentist

YouTube

This is a pretty common thing amongst adults. Sometimes, adults even skip out on taking their kids to the dentist! We don’t want to be told to stop eating candy and to floss more. We’re even more scared of being told we need dental work like braces. But the fact is that avoiding the dentist is an incredibly silly thing. There is a strong link between oral health and heart health, so it’s not always about trying to perfect a nice smile! If you’re really worried, try finding a dentist that specialises in good customer service and comfort. Research it online. You can get dentures, dental implants and Invisalign clear braces at PaulCorcoranDDS.com.

Writing a will

Who wants to write a will? I’m guessing I didn’t just get a big show of hands. It’s the last thing we want to do because it relates to the last thing we’re going to do. It involves sitting down and speaking practically and business-like about what will happen after you die.

testament

Flickr

But we shouldn’t be avoiding this responsibility. Just because it’s not required by law, it doesn’t mean it’s something that isn’t important! If you pass on without a will in place, the state will determine the distribution of your assets. If you know that you want certain things to go to certain people after your death, you need to make one. You can get help finding a will attorney at Lawyers.FindLaw.com.

Exercising

This is the ultimate one. It’s found on a million new year’s resolution lists across the country. We buy gym memberships to try forcing our future selves to exercise so as not to waste money. And yet so many of us still don’t exercise enough. Why? Maybe we’re not clear enough on how important daily exercise is. Maybe we don’t know just how dangerous the modern sedentary lifestyle is to our hearts. It could also have a lot to do with thinking that exercise requires a large time commitment. We’re all pretty busy, right? Who has time for exercise?

File:141100 - Athletics track Patricia Flavel finish line - 3b - 2000 Sydney race photo.jpg

Wikimedia

Did you know that you can get started on exercising and healthier living on just half an hour a day? You have forty-eight half-hours in your day. Reckon you could give up one of them a few times a week, make sure you get your heart rate elevated for at least half an hour. You’ll want to do more in the long run, but this is a great start! LiveStrong.com provides a great list of the risks of not exercising.

Number of Obese People Worldwide Hit 641 Million in 2014

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A major study on body mass index (BMI) evolution has found that there are now more adults in the world classified as obese than underweight.

The new study, led by scientists from Imperial College London and published in The Lancet, compared BMI among almost 20 million adult men and women from 1975 to 2014.

The researchers found obesity in men has tripled and more than doubled in women.

Lead author Prof. Majid Ezzat said it was an “epidemic of severe obesity” and urged governments to act.

The study, which pooled data from adults in 186 countries, found that the number of obese people worldwide had risen from 105 million in 1975 to 641 million in 2014.

Meanwhile, the number of underweight people had risen from 330 million to 462 million over the same period.

Global obesity rates among men went up from 3.2% in 1975 to 10.8%, while among women they rose from 6.4 % in 1975 to 14.9%.

This equates to 266 million obese men and 375 million obese women in the world in 2014, the study said.

The research also predicted that the probability of reaching the WHO’s global obesity target – which aims for no rise in obesity above 2010 levels by 2025 – would be “close to zero”.

The clinical definition of obese is a BMI – a measurement that relates weight and height – of 30kg/m2.Obesity worldwide 2016

Prof. Majid Ezzati said: “Our research has shown that over 40 years we have transitioned from a world in which underweight prevalence was more than double that of obesity, to one in which more people are obese than underweight.

“Although it is reassuring that the number of underweight individuals has decreased over the last four decades, global obesity has reached crisis point.”

“We hope these findings create an imperative to shift responsibility from the individual to governments and to develop and implement policies to address obesity.

“For instance, unless we make healthy food options like fresh fruits and vegetables affordable for everyone and increase the price of unhealthy processed foods, the situation is unlikely to change.”

The team also examined the number of people who are underweight, and over the same time period the study suggested the rates had fallen from 14% to 9% in men, and 15% to 10% in women.

Other statistics from the study include:

  • More obese men and women now live in China and the USA than in any other country
  • China has the largest number of obese people in the world with 43.2 million men and 46.4 million women
  • The US has 41.7 million obese men and 46.1 million obese women
  • Almost a fifth of the world’s obese adults – 118 million – live in only six high-income English-speaking countries – Australia, Canada, Republic of Ireland, New Zealand, UK, and the US
  • By 2025, the UK is projected to have the highest levels of obese women in Europe (38%), followed by Republic of Ireland (37%) and Malta (34%)
  • Being underweight remains a significant health problem in countries such as India and Bangladesh

North Korea Jams GPS Signals near South Korean Border

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North Korea is jamming GPS signals near the South Korean border, Yonhap news agency reports.

The radio waves have reportedly affected 110 planes and ships, and can cause mobile phones to malfunction.

South Korea’s unification ministry spokesman Jeong Joon-hee was quoted by AFP news agency as saying it was an “act of provocation”.

Tensions have been high between the two countries since North Korea’s fourth nuclear test in January.

The broadcasts appeared to have started a month ago from various locations along the border, but on March 31 North Korea discharged its largest amount of GPS-jamming signals, according to Yonhap, citing a senior government official.North Korea jams GPS signals

The South Korean coastguard reported about 70 fishing vessels had been forced to return to port after GPS navigation issues, AFP said. There has been no reported disruption to flights.

According to Yonhap, since 2010 North Korea has been accused of jamming signals at least three other times. It is believed to be using equipment imported from Russia.

Pyongyang has called the allegations “sheer fabrication”.

Since North Korea’s nuclear test in January and subsequent launch of a long-range rocket, South Korea has stepped up security measures including border patrols and allowing the US to fly fighter jets near the border.

In return, North Korea has threatened “indiscriminate” nuclear strikes on the US and South Korea.

Model 3: Tesla Unveils Its Lowest-Cost Vehicle to Date

Tesla has unveiled its lowest-cost vehicle to date, Model 3 electric car.

The price and range of the five-seater should make Model 3 appealing to new types of customers and could boost interest in other electric cars.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk said his goal was to produce about 500,000 vehicles a year once production is at full speed.

Photo Tesla
Photo Tesla

The company needs the new car to prove popular if it is to stay in business.

The first deliveries of Model 3 are scheduled to start in late 2017, and it can be ordered in advance in dozens of countries.

The basic model will start at $35,000 and have a range of at least 215 miles per charge.

In 2015, Tesla delivered 50,580 vehicles. Most of those were its Model S saloon, which overtook Nissan’s Leaf to become the world’s best selling pure-electric vehicle.

However, Tesla still posted a net loss of $889 million for 2015, partly because it spent $718 million on research and development over the period.

It left Tesla with cash reserves of $1.2 billion, down from $1.9 billion a year earlier.

Dilma Rousseff Impeachment: Two More Senior Brazilian Officials Resign

Two more senior Brazilian officials have stepped down in the latest blow to President Dilma Rousseff’s government.

They are Sports Minister George Hilton and Col. Adilson Moreira, who was organizing security at the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in August.

Col. Adilson Moreira reportedly wrote that he was ashamed Brazil was being led by “an unscrupulous group”.

The resignations come as President Dilma Rousseff battles for her government’s survival in an impeachment process.

Col. Adilson Moreira led the National Force for Public Security, whose members will guard sporting venues during the Olympics.

Photo Getty Images
Photo Getty Images

Brazilian media reported the colonel had sent an email to his colleagues criticizing President Dilma Rousseff and other senior officials.

Brazilian officials said the planning for the Olympic Games would not be affected by Col. Adilson Moreira’s and George Hilton’s resignations.

Dilma Rousseff’s supporters marched on March 31 in a number of Brazilian cities to show their opposition to the impeachment proceedings.

On March 28, Tourism Minister Henrique Eduardo Alves handed in his letter of resignation, pre-empting his PMDB party’s split from the governing coalition.

The PMDB was the largest partner in the governing coalition and its exit could deprive Dilma Rousseff of crucial votes she needs to block impeachment proceedings against her.

Dilma Rousseff is expected to announce sweeping changes to her cabinet on April 1 to replace up to seven ministers from the PMDB party.

The president’s critics say she is trying to buy the votes of smaller parties by offering them posts in the cabinet.

Congress is expected to start voting next month on whether to remove Dilma Rousseff from office over allegations that she manipulated accounts to hide a growing deficit.

If 172 out of the 513 members of the lower house of Congress vote against Dilma Rousseff’s impeachment, the proceedings will be shelved.

However, if 342 members vote for it, President Dilma Rousseff will be suspended for 180 days and Vice-President Michel Temer of the PMDB party will become interim president.

The impeachment would then by reviewed by the upper house, the Senate, and a final decision be taken in October.

Dilma Rousseff has denied any wrongdoing and has likened the moves to impeach her to an attempted coup.

Separately, ex-President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva continues to be investigated as part of a corruption case involving the state-run oil company Petrobras.

On March 31, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva was handed a boost as Brazil’s Supreme Court ruled it would take over the case.

Homework Essay Writing Help

Freelance essay writing is a great opportunity to get the professional writing assistance whenever you need one. You do not have necessarily to be the writer. Many of college and university students are actively engaged in freelance writing by helping their friends to complete homework tasks or being an active blog writer online, sharing personal ideas, views, and experiences with the entire world. Being a student is both entertaining, because student life will be the most memorable part of your life, and challenging because of multiple writing assignment you will have to complete.  For this reason, having access to essay templates is always a good option because you can quickly learn about the basic format requirements and ensure your paper in structured in a proper way. Asking freelance writers for assistance or just a piece of advice does not hurt either. There are millions of freelance writers online; someone will definitely help you with your question and may even share ideas on how to start writing your assignment.

Photo Flickr
Photo Flickr

 

What is so difficult about writing? At first thought, there is nothing special in writing a simple narrative essay, but it seems so only at the first glance. If only writing was so easy, every student would become a professional writer upon graduation, or at least, could get a job as a professional writer after the successful graduation. The fact is you are not asked whether you like writing or not, you are just being given the assignments and there is nothing to do with that. So, you come up with the idea that you will never succeed in writing. If you tell this to your professor or parents they will not appreciate this much. Though, it is not the best idea that could came to your mind, it is good to know one`s weak and strong points.

 

Do not waste your time if you know well in advance that the result would satisfy neither you nor your teacher or professor. In that particular case, freelance writing service may be helpful for you. Nowadays, it is quite a common kind of service. Freelance writers could easily provide you with all that academic stuff whether it is an essay or a research paper. If you like writing academic papers you must be not really interested in providing yourself with this kind of services. It is good for you to have strong writing skill because you will have to apply them very often, anyway. However, you can find lots of ready-made essay templates completed by freelance writers and make sure they meet all the academic requirements stated in the attached instruction to your homework writing assignment.

 

It is good for you that there is a freelance writing service that will help you complete this complicated writing assignment. Research paper writing is nothing comparable to ordinary essay writing. You won`t be able to complete a proper research paper in a couple of hours. You can write an essay in a couple of hours, but nothing is more complicated than this particular type of academic paper. However, it might be rather an unreal task for many students who have no idea how to start collecting or analyzing sources. Anyway, if you dare to try to complete your research paper the day before submission, you are a challenge-driven person, or a freelance writer. Freelance writers are not afraid to take challenging orders because they know well the stuff they are going to work with.

 

Freelance writing is a student-friendly service. There is no task for a freelance writer that he/she cannot complete. Let the professionals do their job. Ask a freelance writer for a writing assistance and you will be surprised and pleased with the result. Freelance writers complete any kind of academic papers regardless of their level of complexity. If you find it hard to get ready with the homework for tomorrow, feel free to get from helphomework.net to get more about this service. Once you have made an acquaintance with this service, you won`t ignore it in the future.

Brussels Airport Ready for Partial Reopening after Attacks

Brussels International Airport is ready to partially reopen but flights will not restart until Friday evening (April 1) at the earliest.

Zaventem airport has been closed since March 22 when two suicide bombers blew themselves up in the departure hall.

The departures area would only be operating at 20% of normal capacity, the airport’s operators said in a statement.

The attacks on the airport and another suicide bomb on the Brussels Metro killed 32 people and injured hundreds.

ISIS has said it was behind the bombings.

The reopening announcement follows days of tests for a temporary check-in system at Zaventem.

“Brussels Airport Company has received the go-ahead from the fire services and the Belgian Civil Aviation Authority for a partial restart of passenger flights at the airport,” the airport’s statement said.

“The airport is thus technically ready for a restart of passenger flights in the temporary infrastructure foreseen for check-in.

“However, the authorities have yet to take a formal decision on the restart date. Until Friday evening no passenger flights will take place at Brussels Airport.”

Photo Getty Images
Photo Getty Images

The airport said the temporary system could receive 800 departing passengers per hour, far fewer than normal.

However, the baggage reclaim and arrivals area was only slightly damaged and has since been made ready for use, it added.

“The final step for the restart is the formal political approval. In the meantime, it has been decided that there will be no passenger flights until Friday evening.”

Zaventem Airport CEO Arnaud Feist said earlier this week that the airport would take months to reopen fully.

Meanwhile, Brussels airport police have said they criticized security well ahead of the attacks.

In an open letter to authorities published by Belgian broadcaster VRT, police said they had sent “strong daily signals regarding the overall security at the airport”.

They complained “there had not been any security control of passengers or luggage from the airport complex right up to the centralized body searches” area.

They also alleged that too many airport employees had criminal backgrounds.

Police are still searching for the third man who took part in the airport attacks. The man, pictured on CCTV wearing a hat, was said to have fled the scene without detonating his explosive device.

The two airport bombers who died have been named as Najim Laachraoui and Ibrahim el-Bakraoui.

Ibrahim el-Bakraoui’s brother, Khalid el-Bakraoui, blew himself up at Maelbeek metro station.

Police later found a computer in which Ibrahim el-Bakraoui left a final message.

Rewarding Careers as a Medical Assistant

Medical Assistants are important figures in allied health. Expected to be skillful in a number of areas, including administrative, laboratory and clinical settings, a medical assistant is essentially a medical professional with a hand in every cookie jar.

 

With a fairly short training cycle, a medical assistant is taught a number of soft and clinical skills including communicating effectively to patients, charting medical histories, performing electrocardiograms, taking vital signs, preparing patients for physicals, authorizing prescriptions, operating healthcare software, billing and coding, and a host of others.

 

Medical assistants have the opportunity to grow and transition in their career. If you’re interested in becoming a medical assistant, there are some tell-tale features that only the very best possess.

Photo Flickr
Photo Flickr

 

Quality Patient Care

Healthcare is a growing field, with the need for medical assistants expected to grow as much as 23 percent by 2024. As the field grows, so does a patient’s need for quality care. Patients are like customers in that they are paying for a specific service. An excellent medical assistant recognizes each patient’s individual needs in care and coverage, and makes sure that their experience is a good one. A medical assistant aids their patients in deciding which physician the patient will meet with and how to provide them with the best care in the meantime.

 

Aptitude for the Task at Hand

Medical assistants work at the front desk, in the back office and in the exam room. As a professional wearing many hats, a medical assistant is responsible for knowing the medical history of the patient, why the patient is visiting, the current health condition of the patient, and the patient’s insurance provider. All of this information helps the attending physician provide the best care for the patient.

 

Works Well with Others

Working behind the scenes and taking center stage are the dual daily duties of the medical assistant. As an administrator and assistant, the medical assistant works with the receptionist at the front desk, the doctor in the exam room, the coding and billing department in the back office, as well as in the lab retrieving patient test results. This requires finesse, professionalism and team work. Like a well-oiled machine, each department serves a specific purpose in the larger context of the patient. To do this well, a medical assistant must be a team player.

 

Room to Grow

Because a medical assistant is one of the more well-rounded professionals in the healthcare system, it’s expected that they are able to transition from one department to the next without any hiccups. Becoming a medical assistant largely depends on the specific training and curriculum you’re exposed to. For example, Arizona College’s MA training provides a well-rounded education that’ll prepare students to adjust to any department in the clinic. From time to time, medical assistants will be asked to fill in for a colleague or help a short-staffed department for the day, all while having to stay on top of the regular MA duties. This is where soft and clinical skills really come in handy.

 

Always Professional

As medical assistants move between departments and have face time each day with a variety of people, they’re expected to maintain a constant level of professionalism. As we all know, This isn’t always easy, especially when a bad day is brewing. Not all personality types click, and sometimes Karen in billing can be a little lethargic. No matter how frustrating a co-worker may be or how hard-headed a manager is, the professionalism of a medical assistant is as constant as the rising sun. In order to maintain a well-run office, professionalism is key. Being cordial when it’s the last thing you want to do can be very difficult, but a professional can do it with ease.

 

Working with the public isn’t easy. There are a lot of roles medical assistants must play and they’re not always appreciated by those being served. But without medical assistants, clinics would run into the ground, and the collective health of our nation would plummet.

Vojislav Seselj Not Guilty of Balkan War Crimes

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Vojislav Seselj has been found not guilty of war crimes and crimes against humanity over the Balkan wars in the 1990s.

The UN war crimes court at The Hague said the Serbian ultra-nationalist had neither borne individual responsibility for the crimes, nor known about them nor endorsed them.

Vojislav Seselj had denied the charges. In his first reaction, he said the court had reached the only verdict possible.

Croatia’s prime minister condemned the verdict as “shameful”.

The UN tribunal’s prosecutor Serge Brammertz said his office would decide later whether to appeal.Vojislav Seselj acquitted

“I’m absolutely convinced that the victims’ communities and many people will not be satisfied with this outcome,” Serge Brammertz said.

Vojislav Seselj was allowed to go to Belgrade in 2014 after being diagnosed with cancer and was not present in the courtroom.

He had even refused the tribunal’s offer to follow the verdict by video link.

The radical has been taking part in anti-government rallies ahead of Serbian parliamentary elections in April.

Vojislav Seselj was a close ally of the late Serbian President Slobodan Milosevic. He served as Serbian deputy prime minister from 1998 to 2000.

He surrendered to the UN court (the ICTY) voluntarily in 2003. When the ICTY sought to appoint a defense lawyer against his wishes, he went on hunger strike.

The indictment charged Vojislav Seselj with three counts of crimes against humanity and six of war crimes for inciting ethnic cleansing in Croatia, Bosnia and the Serbian province of Vojvodina in the period August 1991-September 1993.

On the most serious charge of crimes against humanity, presiding Judge Jean-Claude Antonetti said the prosecution “had failed to prove beyond all reasonable doubt that there was a widespread and systematic attack against the non-Serb civilian population in large areas of Croatia and Bosnia.

“The evidence tendered and considered establishes instead that there was an armed conflict between enemy military forces with civilian components.”

Prosecutors had argued Vojislav Seselj was criminally responsible for the murder, torture and deportation of non-Serbs as part of his project to create a “Greater Serbia”.

They had accused him of raising an army of volunteers who committed “unspeakable crimes”.

However, the trial chamber found that there was no “criminal purpose in sending volunteers” – and, moreover, they had not been under Vojislav Seselj’s command.

“The majority simply notes that it is not satisfied that the recruitment and subsequent deployment of volunteers implies that Vojislav Seselj knew of these crimes on the ground, or that he instructed or endorsed them,” it said.

The verdict also concluded that the “Greater Serbia” plan Vojislav Seselj had supported was not a “criminal”, but “political”, project.

Croatian PM Tihomir Oreskovic criticised the outcome as “a defeat for the Hague tribunal and the prosecution”.

Vojislav Seselj had consistently berated the tribunal, challenging its legitimacy – and regretting the fact that it could not pass a death sentence on him.

On March 31, Vojislav Seselj said he wanted 14 million euro in compensation against the UN tribunal.

Nkandla House: Jacob Zuma Violated Constitution

President Jacob Zuma violated the constitution when he failed to repay government money spent on his Nkandla private home, the highest court in South Africa has ruled.

The court gave the treasury 60 days to determine how much he should repay.

The ruling is a victory for the opposition, who said they would push for Jacob Zuma’s impeachment.

They accuse him of using “ill-gotten wealth” to upgrade his home with a swimming pool and amphitheatre.

Jacob Zuma has denied any wrongdoing.Nkandla house case South Africa

A government statement said Jacob Zuma would “reflect” on the judgement and take “appropriate action”.

An anti-corruption body, known as the public protector, ruled in 2014 that $23million had been spent on Jacob Zuma’s rural home in Nkandla in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province.

Jacob Zuma had “unduly benefited” from the renovations and should repay a portion of the money, the public protector said.

In a unanimous judgement on behalf of the Constitutional Court’s 11 judges, Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng said the public protector was a “Biblical David” fighting against the Goliath of corruption.

Jacob Zuma’s failure to repay the money was “inconsistent” with the constitution, he added.

“The president failed to uphold, defend and respect the constitution,” he declared.

Mogoeng Mogoeng added that public officials ignored the constitution at their peril, and should remember that the rule of law was the “sharp and mighty sword that stands ready to chop the ugly head of impunity from its stiffened neck”.

Kolkata Flyover Collapse Kills at Least 10

A flyover under construction collapsed in Kolkata (formerly known as Calcutta) killing at least 10 people and leaving several others injured, Indian officials say.

Many people are feared trapped under the concrete and steel bridge, which fell on a busy road.

Fist images from the site showed residents using their bare hands to help the rescue effort.

Construction projects in India have often suffered from safety issues with frequent collapses.

Photo Reuters
Photo Reuters

According to experts, there is a lack of inspections and substandard materials are used.

The flyover has been under construction since 2009 and has missed several deadlines for completion, Reuters reported.

Emergency teams have been sent to the area near Girish Park, but witnesses say there is little sign of co-ordinated rescue efforts.

The collapsed structure appears to have hit cars, trucks and nearby shops.

The accident took place in one of Kolkata’s most densely populated neighborhoods, with narrow lanes, and shops and houses built close together.

The proximity of the buildings may limit the access for heavy lifting equipment to the area.

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

Giant Rubber Duck Artist Accuses Brazilian Protesters of Plagiarism

Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman – famous for a giant rubber duck that pops up around the world – says a version of his work used by Brazilian protesters amounts to plagiarism.

Groups pushing for the impeachment of President Dilma Rousseff are using a large rubber duck as a mascot.

The duck’s design is similar to one by Florentijn Hofman.

The owner of the factory that produced both ducks denied any wrongdoing.

Versions of the same giant inflatable rubber duck designed by Florentijn Hofman have traveled the world since 2007, calling in Japan, New Zealand and Brazil, among many other countries.

The version that has appeared in protests in Brazil closely resembles Florentijn Hofman’s, although it has crosses for eyes.Brazil protests duck

It also has the slogan “Chega de pagar o pato” across its chest, a Portuguese expression meaning “We won’t pay for the duck any more” or “We won’t pay for what is not our fault any more”.

The giant duck was commissioned by a powerful Brazilian industrial group, FIESP, to use in protests against corruption and high taxes from September 2015.

It has made a number of appearances in demonstrations against the president in recent months.

Before it appeared as part of an exhibition in Brazil, a version of Florentijn Hofman’s duck was produced in a Sao Paulo factory.

However, the owner of the factory, Denilson Sousa, who also produced the new duck, denies the design was copied.

A FIESP spokesman said they had been reassured the design was original.

On March 29, the group released 5,000 rubber ducks near the main national congress building in the capital, Brasilia, and took out full-page adverts in national newspapers using an image of a duck.

Opposition lawmakers want to remove Dilma Rousseff over claims she manipulated government accounts to hide a growing deficit.

Donald Trump Reverses His Position on Abortion Punishment

Donald Trump has changed his mind after calling for women who have abortions to be punished, only hours after suggesting it.

The Republican presidential hopeful had proposed “some form of punishment” for women who have abortions if they were made illegal.

After strong criticism, Donald Trump repeated the Republican party line that only the person performing the abortion should be punished, not the women.

Donald Trump supports a ban on abortions, with some exceptions.

Abortion has been legal in the US since 1973 after a landmark Supreme Court ruling.

Photo MSNBC
Photo MSNBC

Only the Supreme Court or a constitutional amendment has the power to overturn Roe v Wade and make abortion illegal.

Donald Trump’s initial comments made during a town hall event with MSNBC sparked a wave of criticism.

He later maintained: “The woman is a victim in this case as is the life in her womb.

“My position has not changed – like Ronald Reagan, I am pro-life with exceptions.”

Once a Democrat, Donald Trump has been criticized for supporting abortion rights in the past.

Some anti-abortion groups criticized Donald Trump’s initial comments as extreme.

“Mr. Trump’s comment today is completely out of touch with the pro-life movement and even more with women who have chosen such a sad thing as abortion,” said Jeanne Mancini, President of the March for Life Education and Defense Fund.

“No pro-lifer would ever want to punish a woman who has chosen abortion.”

Democratic front-runner Hillary Clinton has been an outspoken critic of Donald Trump’s stance on women’s issues.

“Just when you thought it couldn’t get worse. Horrific and telling,” said Hillary Clinton after his latest comments.

Texas Senator Ted Cruz, Donald Trump’s closest rival in the Republican race, also condemned the tycoon’s comments.

“Once again Donald Trump has demonstrated that he hasn’t seriously thought through the issues, and he’ll say anything just to get attention,” Ted Cruz said.

His spokesman Brian Phillips added on Twitter: “Don’t overthink it: Trump doesn’t understand the pro-life position because he’s not pro-life.”

Republican leaders have expressed concern about Donald Trump’s prospects in the general election because polls show that he is extremely unpopular with female voters.

Donald Trump has come under fire for disparaging women including former presidential candidate Carly Fiorina and TV presenter Megyn Kelly.

His campaign manager, Corey Lewandowski, was arrested on March 29, accused of a minor assault on a female reporter. Donald Trump has vehemently defended Corey Lewandowski.

Anti-abortion activists traditionally have avoided placing blame on women who undergo abortions, but have focused on those who perform the procedure.

In recent years, conservatives have sought to tighten restrictions on abortion clinics and doctors rather than seek an outright ban.

Abortion rights advocates say these measures are meant to restrict women’s access to abortion.

The new laws are particularly widespread in conservative southern states.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1Jpoecf0xY

US Army to Increase Its Presence in Eastern Europe

The US will increase its military presence in Eastern Europe in response to an “aggressive Russia”, the Pentagon has announced.

From 2017, three fully manned US combat brigades will be deployed.

In February, the Pentagon announced plans to quadruple its budget for European defense in 2017.

The additional presence will increase US ability to conduct military exercises in the region.

The plan demonstrates “our strong and balanced approach to reassuring our NATO allies and partners in the wake of an aggressive Russia in eastern Europe and elsewhere”, said Gen. Philip Breedlove, the senior US commander in Europe.US troops in Eastern Europe

“Our allies and partners will see more capability. They will see a more frequent presence of an armored brigade with more modernized equipment in their countries,” Gen. Philip Breedlove added.

Each brigade will rotate through the region for nine months before being replaced.

There are about 4,500 soldiers in a brigade, bringing with them military vehicles and other equipment.

“There will be a division’s worth of stuff to fight if something happens,” Deputy Secretary of Defense Robert Work told the Wall Street Journal.

Relations between Russia and the West have plummeted since Russia annexed the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea in March 2014.

The intervention sparked fears that Russia was considering other incursions into neighboring countries.

Russia has accused NATO of using the situation in Ukraine as an excuse to move closer to Russian borders.

“Stories are being spread that Russia will send its tanks into the Baltic states, into Sofia or into Budapest. No-one intends to do that,” Russia’s Deputy Defense Minister Anatoly Antonov told German public broadcaster Deutsche Welle.

Some analysts suggested the US military could be planning for the post-Obama era.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan Song: EU and Germany Dismiss Turkish Protests

The European Union and Germany have rejected Turkish protests over a song aired on German TV mocking Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

The song, aired two weeks ago on regional broadcaster NDR’s extra3 show, takes aim at Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s authoritarian style while also making fun of some of his physical characteristics.

Last week, Turkey summoned the German envoy to demand the song be withdrawn.

However, both Germany and the EU have insisted press freedom is inviolable.Recep Tayyip Erdogan song Germany

In the song, Recep Tayyip Erdogan is criticized on a range of issues ranging from the imprisonment of journalists to heavy-handed treatment of protesters including women (“equal rights for women – they are beaten up equally”).

The song suggests that Recep Tayyip Erdogan would rather bomb Kurds than what the writers term his “brothers in faith”, so-called Islamic State.

The song also ridicules the recent refugee deal agreed between the EU and Turkey seeking to stem the flow of refugees into Europe in exchange for financial aid, among other benefits.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been angered by the song, and the Turkish foreign ministry summoned Germany’s ambassador to Ankara – on repeated occasions, according to reports.

A Turkish diplomatic source told AFP news agency: “We summoned the ambassador last week to communicate our protest about the broadcast that we condemned.

“We demanded that the broadcast be removed from the air.”

Such demands got short shrift from European Commission head Jean-Claude Juncker, who “does not appreciate this movement of calling in the German ambassador just because of a satirical song”, spokeswoman Mina Andreeva told reporters.

“He [Jean-Claude Juncker] believes this moves Turkey further from the EU rather than closer to us,” Mina Andreeva said, adding that “freedom of the press and freedom of expression… are values the EU cherishes”.

A spokeswoman for the German foreign ministry said Berlin had told Ankara basic freedoms were “non-negotiable”.

More than 1,800 people – including celebrities and schoolchildren – have been prosecuted in Turkey for insulting Recep Tayyip Erdogan since he came to office in 2014, under a previously little-used law.

Seif Eldin Mustafa: EgyptAir Hijacker Appears in Court in Cyprus

Seif Eldin Mustafa, the Egyptian man accused of hijacking and forcing an EgyptAir plane to land in Cyprus on March 29 using a fake suicide belt, has appeared in court in Cyprus.

The Larnaca court ordered an eight-day detention for Seif Eldin Mustafa.

Possible charges include air piracy, kidnapping and threatening behavior.

Seif Eldin Mustafa did not speak, but gave a victory sign as he was driven away by police. Cypriot authorities have described him as “psychologically unstable”, saying the incident was not terrorism-related.

EgyptAir flight MS181 was carrying 56 passengers from Alexandria to Cairo, along with six crew and a security official, when it was diverted to Cyprus.Seif Eldin Mustafa EgyptAir hijack

During a stand-off lasting more than six hours, almost all passengers and crew were freed unharmed as authorities negotiated with Seif Eldin Mustafa.

One person, apparently a crew member, climbed out of a cockpit window, minutes before the suspect walked calmly out of the plane to surrender.

Cypriot Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides said Seif Eldin Mustafa had initially asked to speak with his Cypriot ex-wife, who was brought to the airport by police, before making a series of “incoherent” demands.

Cyprus’ President Nicos Anastasiades had responded to a reporter’s question about whether the hijacker was motivated by romance, by laughing and saying: “Always there is a woman involved.”

Egyptian authorities said security measures had been “fully implemented” before the flight.

CCTV footage released by the interior ministry shows Seif Eldin Mustafa being frisked at two security checks and passing a slim bag through X-ray machines at Alexandria’s Borg El Arab airport.

Egypt has taken steps to improve airport security after Russian Metrojet Flight 9268 was blown up over Sinai in October 2015.

They include an extra $1 billion a year and a deal with British consultancy Control Risks to review procedures at Cairo, Sharm El-Sheikh and Marsa Alam airports.

Donald Trump Drops Republican Loyalty Pledge

Donald Trump has dropped his pledge to support the GOP candidate if he does not win the Republican nomination for the November election.

His rivals, Ted Cruz and John Kasich, refused to say outright whether they would unite behind a nominee.

All the Republican candidates signed a loyalty pledge last November.

It is the latest sign of friction between Donald Trump and Ted Cruz, who have been embroiled in a dispute involving each other’s wives.

A committee supporting Ted Cruz published a photo of Donald Trump’s wife Melania from 2000. In retaliation, Donald Trump tweeted an unflattering picture of Ted Cruz’s wife Heidi.

Asked by CNN about the dispute, Donald Trump said of Ted Cruz: “He started it.”

Photo Getty Images
Photo Getty Images

CNN presenter Anderson Cooper replied, said: “But, sir, with all due respect, that’s the argument of a five-year-old.”

“No, it’s not,” said Donald Trump.

Donald Trump claims he has been “treated very unfairly” in the campaign.

To a question about whether he maintained his loyalty pledge from last November, Donald Trump said: “No, I do not anymore.”

Earlier, when asked the same question, Ted Cruz did not give a direct answer but said: “I am not in the habit of supporting someone who attacks my wife and attacks my family.”

He went on: “Donald is not going to be the GOP nominee. We are going to beat him.”

Donald Trump later replied, saying he did not need Ted Cruz’s support: “I have tremendous support right now from the people.”

The New York tycoon has been repeatedly criticized by his rivals and observers for a campaign that has included personal attacks at rivals and criticism and violence against protesters.

Despite the numerous recent controversies surrounding him, Donald Trump is currently well ahead in the Republican race with 739 delegates to Ted Cruz’s 465.

John Kasich is some way behind with 143, with the 1,237 needed to win the nomination probably out of his reach.

The three candidates have campaigned in Wisconsin ahead of April 5 primary there.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WeK14EUjLlI

Fun Ways To Be Healthier

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Pasta penne with tomato and rucola

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Many of us feel that we could look and feel much better if we were healthier. But it can seem like a lot of work and self-deprivation. Social media emphasises gruelling workouts, marathons and green smoothies. As a result, getting healthy can seem unappealing. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Making healthier choices can be fun, empowering and encourage us to try new things. Healthier food can actually taste better. Healthy activities can sometimes be more fun and relaxing than just lying on the couch. And ditching unhealthy habits can be the change we need to make to feel more motivated and positive on a daily basis. If you’re hoping to get healthy, pick changes and habits that you can sustain and enjoy. Browse these suggestions for how to make getting healthy fun.

Get Your Friends Involved

Things are usually much more fun with friends or family involved. What could be an average walk around the block can become a great way to catch up and unwind if you take a friend with you. Going to an exercise class or walking a new route to work can seem daunting or a hassle, but add a pal and it can become a great new routine. Involving others can be an important way to make the changes that we can actually sustain. Things become fun and sociable rather than a daunting chore. The next time you’re thinking of doing something fun, take a friend!

Going Out

We can easily slip into unhealthy habits when we go out. We want to feel carefree, spontaneous, and like we can let our hair down. So it makes sense why our healthy habits can go out of the window! But with fun substitutions, we can stay on track and still have a great night. Alcohol-free cocktails can still have the amazing flavours and sweetness of their alcoholic versions. But they are lower on calories and a great choice if we are limiting alcohol intake. No-one other than us needs to know we’re not drinking if we feel we might be under pressure! Social smoking can also be difficult to resist so why not try vaping for a fun (and healthier) alternative? Amazing flavours like space jam e liquid can still feel like a treat without the guilt.

Learn To Cook

Developing a new skill can be an excellent, fun way to take control. More than ever before, we have access to recipes and instructions that can make anyone feel like a real chef. Cooking our own meals needn’t be expensive and time consuming, but can help us to be aware of exactly what we’re eating. A vegetarian day a week has been praised by many health professionals, and there are some fabulous recipes to ensure you won’t miss the meat. We can avoid a lot of harmful fats, preservatives and additives simply by starting from scratch. We can save money and calories by preparing homemade lunches in advance, and will feel fuller for longer if we have a fresh breakfast. Having a few extra skills in the kitchen can help us make healthier choices on a daily basis. You never know, you might discover a genuine talent!

Htin Kyaw Sworn In as Myanmar President

Htin Kyaw has been sworn in as Myanmar’s new president in a joint session of parliament in the capital Nay Pyi Taw.

The 69-year-old is the first elected civilian leader in more than 50 years.

Htin Kyaw from the National League for Democracy (NLD) takes over from Thein Sein, who introduced wide-ranging reforms during his five years in power.

Although NLD leader Aung San Suu Kyi is barred from the presidency, she has said she will rule by proxy.Htin Kyaw sworn in as Myanmar president

The handover completes the transition that began after the NLD won a landslide win in elections in November 2015.

Htin Kyaw said he would be “faithful” to the people of Myanmar, as he took the oath of office.

Vice-presidents Henry Van Thio and Myint Swe, who lost to Htin Kyaw in the presidential vote earlier this month, were also sworn in, as were new cabinet ministers.

Most of the ministers belong to the NLD. The list includes Aung San Suu Kyi who will be in charge of foreign affairs, the president’s office, education, and energy and electric power.

However, the military is appointing its own nominees for three key ministries – defense, home affairs and border affairs.

In a brief speech, Htin Kyaw noted challenges ahead including the need for a nationwide ceasefire. The government has been engaged in armed conflicts with various ethnic groups for decades.

Htin Kyaw also spoke about the constitution complying with modern democratic values, in a nod to the NLD’s stated goal during the election campaign of changing the constitution.

Correspondents say this is perhaps the most sensitive issue in the NLD government’s relationship with the army, who have 25% of parliamentary seats. It means the army retains the power to veto any changes to the constitution, as that would require more than 75% of votes.

The constitution contains a controversial clause barring anyone with family members who have another nationality from becoming president – widely seen as aimed at preventing Aung San Suu Kyi from taking power, as her two sons are British.

Despite the restriction Aung San Suu Kyi, who remains hugely popular and prominent in Myanmar, has vowed to act “above the president”.

Weird Things You Should Know About Ben Affleck And Henry Cavill Before Seeing Batman VS Superman

Before going to see the new Batman VS Superman: Dawn Of Justice film why not read some facts about the main characters of the film? Both Ben Affleck and Henry Cavill are hugely famous actors and there are various rumours going around about both of them. Here is an extensive list of weird things that are true and that anyone should know before seeing their new film.

Blackjack Fan

Most people have already heard that Ben Affleck made headlines for getting banned from the blackjack table at a very popular casino in Las Vegas. Since then he has confirmed that the incident was a true story. Apart from blackjack Ben Affleck doesn’t indulge in any other gambling. If you’re looking to master a game like Ben Affleck, he simply took some time to learn about the game and became such a good player that the casino thought he was counting cards.Batman v Superman weird things

To Be Or Not To Be

Those who are Twilight fans may already know this by Henry Cavill Was actually first choice to portray Edward Cullen. Stephenie Meyer did not picture Robert Pattinson as her ideal Edward Cullen, the only actor she imagined playing her beloved character was in fact Henry Cavill. As well as being Stephenie Meyer’s first choice he could have been a leading man in many other popular films including Batman Begins, James Bond and even Superman Returns but lucked out to other actors.

Work It Out

To be as physically fit as Batman, Ben Affleck began an intense two hour a day workout regimen the day after he was cast as Batman in 2013. Henry Cavill also had to work just as hard to portray Superman, he endured many phases with the most extensive being the bulking phase. For Henry Cavill to achieve his physique for Superman in the bulking phase he centred on Olympic weight lifting movements, a very complex system but with many effective lifts that build muscle, strength and power.

Multilingual

Both Ben Affleck and Henry Cavill are extremely multi-talented actors. Both of them can speak a few languages fluently. Ben Affleck can speak Spanish and French. It was first rumoured that Henry Cavill could speak up to 9 different languages fluently. However the actual truth is that he is actually only fluent in 4 languages including English, French, Spanish and Italian. It seems that Batman and Superman aren’t all that different in their talents.

Always A Superhero

As well as Ben Affleck playing Batman he has been a superhero many times including Superman and Daredevil. In his role as Daredevil he tried doing as many of his own stunts as possible feeling that it would add more credibility to the film. In the 2003 version of Daredevil Ben Affleck also had four other stunt doubles each one with a different speciality such as fighting and wire works. Henry Cavill has previously played Superman in Man of Steel, and reprised his character in Batman VS Superman: Dawn of Justice, a film not to be missed.

Dilma Rousseff Impeachment: PMDB Quits Governing Coalition

Brazil’s largest party, the Brazilian Democratic Movement Party (PMDB), has voted to pull out from the governing coalition.

The centrist party called for an “immediate exit” from President Dilma Rousseff’s government.

The move could hasten impeachment proceedings against President Dilma Rousseff, correspondents say.

Opposition lawmakers want to remove Dilma Rousseff over claims that she manipulated accounts to hide a growing deficit.

The PMDB’s decision comes a day after tourism minister Henrique Eduardo Alves from the party stood down.

Photo Reuters
Photo Reuters

At a leadership meeting on March 29, the PMDB decided that its six remaining ministers in Dilma Rousseff’s cabinet must resign or face ethics proceedings.

“The decision was taken by acclaim in a historical meeting marking the withdrawal from Dilma [Rousseff’s] government,” Senator Romero Juca tweeted.

Dilma Rousseff could now be temporarily suspended from office by Congress as early as May.

She would be replaced by Vice President Michel Temer, leader of the PMDB, while the Senate decides if she should permanently leave her post.

Analysts say a considerable number of lawmakers from the PMDB have felt uneasy about their alliance with the left-wing Workers’ Party for a while.

Their unease has been compounded by calls for Dilma Rousseff’s impeachment and a widening corruption scandal involving senior members in the Workers’ Party.

Dilma Rousseff needs one third of the members of the lower house of Congress to vote against her impeachment for the proceedings to be shelved.

Without the PMDB, the president could lose as many as 69 votes at once in the 513-member Chamber of Deputies.

Another of Dilma Rousseff’s coalition partners, the center-left Social Democratic Party (PSD) said it had given its lawmakers a free vote in any possible impeachment proceedings.

On March 28, Dilma Rousseff’s mentor and predecessor in office, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, likened the moves to impeach her to a coup.

However, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva himself is under pressure.

The Supreme Court suspended Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s appointment as Dilma Rousseff’s chief of staff earlier this month and is due to take a final decision on the matter next week.

Opponents of the government said Dilma Rousseff had given Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva the post so he could escape investigation and possible proceedings over allegations of money laundering.

Under Brazilian law, cabinet members can only be investigated by the Supreme Court, not by lower courts.

There have been mass protests demanding the impeachment of Dilma Rousseff in cities like Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.

There have also been rallies in support of the government by those who say Dilma Rousseff is the victim of a campaign to drive the Workers’ Party from government.

Patty Duke Dies at the Age of 69

Oscar-winning actress Patty Duke has died at the age of 69.

Patty Duke won an Oscar for playing Helen Keller in The Miracle Worker in 1963.

As well as a best supporting Oscar, Patty Duke won an Emmy in 1980 for playing Helen Keller’s teacher in a TV movie.

Patty Duke also starred in The Patty Duke Show in the 1960s in which she took the roles of “identical” teenage cousins.

Photo Getty Images
Photo Getty Images

The actress was the mother of actor Sean Astin, who played the hobbit Sam in the Lord of the Rings trilogy of films.

Patty Duke’s representative, Mitchell Stubbs, said in a statement that she had died on March 29 of sepsis from a ruptured intestine.

She underwent a heart bypass in 2004.

Mitchell Stubbs said: “She was a wife, a mother, a grandmother, a friend, a mental health advocate and a cultural icon. She will be missed.”

A statement from Patty Duke’s family read: “This morning, our beloved wife, mother, matriarch and the exquisite artist and champion of mental health, Anna Patty Duke, closed her eyes, quieted her pain and ascended to a beautiful place.”

Patty Duke died in Coeur D’Alene, Idaho, according to her son Sean’s publicist, Teri Weigel.

She was a child star, making her first TV appearance at the age of 12.

In The Miracle Worker, 16-year-old Patty Duke played blind and deaf girl Helen Keller whose tutor – played by Anne Bancroft – breaks through her isolation and helps her to communicate.

Among her other awards were Emmys for My Sweet Charlie in 1970 and Captains and the Kings in 1976.

Patty Duke also appeared in the Broadway musical Oklahoma!.

In her autobiography, Patty Duke revealed that in the 1980s she had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

In later life Patty Duke became a strong advocate for increasing awareness, funding and research for people with mental illness.

Corey Lewandowski: Donald Trump’s Campaign Manager Charged with Assaulting Journalist

Corey Lewandowski, Donald Trump’s campaign manager, has been charged with assaulting a journalist at a campaign event.

He is charged with simple battery for his encounter with former Breitbart reporter Michelle Fields on March 8.Corey Lewandowski assaults Michelle Fields

Corey Lewandowski allegedly yanked Michelle Fields to the ground when she tried to ask a question and bruised her arm.

Police in Jupiter, Florida, where he was arrested, have released new footage of the alleged assault.

Corey Lewandowski plans to plead not guilty, the Trump campaign said in a statement.

Cannes 2016: Cafe Society to Open Film Festival

Cafe Society, Woody Allen’s latest movie, will open this year’s Cannes Film Festival.

The film, starring Kristen Stewart, Jesse Eisenberg and Steve Carell, centers on the buzzing cafe society of 1930s Hollywood.

Woody Allen has become the first director to present three opening-night films at Cannes.

Hollywood Ending opened the festival in 2002 and Midnight in Paris in 2011.

Photo IMDb
Photo IMDb

According to the festival organizers, Cafe Society tells the story “of a young man who arrives in Hollywood during the 1930s hoping to work in the film industry, falls in love, and finds himself swept up in the vibrant cafe society that defined the spirit of the age”.

Café Society marks a romantic reunion for Kristen Stewart and Jesse Eisenberg who appeared together in American Ultra.

The movie will screen out of competition at this year’s event, which runs from May 11 to 22, ahead of its release later this year.

Jodie Foster’s Money Monster starring Julia Roberts and George Clooney, and Steven Spielberg’s The BFG are already confirmed to screen at this year’s Cannes Film Festival.

The full official selection will be announced mid-April.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfU-TUdDY8I

Barack Obama Blames Media for Rise of Donald Trump

President Barack Obama has blamed the media for the rise of Republican Donald Trump as a political force.

Speaking at an event for political reporters, Barack Obama said it was not enough to give “someone a microphone”.

Donald Trump, who has made waves with a series of controversial remarks, is winning the race to be GOP’s presidential nominee.

The New York businessman and the other two Republicans in contention will appear on TV later.

CNN is hosting a town hall event on March 29 ahead of a crucial primary in Wisconsin next week.

Giving a keynote address at a journalists’ award dinner, Barack Obama did not mention Donald Trump by name but his target was clear.

Politicians, journalists and citizens are all responsible for the divisive and bitter political atmosphere, the president said, but reporters should be digging deeper on the 2016 presidential candidates.Barack Obama blames media for Donald Trump coverage

In a reference to Donald Trump’s domination of the news cycle, Barack Obama said the job of a political reporter was “more than just handing someone a microphone”.

Billions of dollars in free media should come with serious accountability, especially when politicians issue unworkable plans or make promises they cannot keep, Barack Obama said.

Donald Trump has had a rough couple of days in the state that will next make its choice for Republican and Democratic presidential candidates, Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin primary is on April 5, with Donald Trump and Texas Senator Ted Cruz neck-and-neck in the state’s polls.

First Donald Trump faced a hostile conservative talk-radio host, Charlie Sykes, who grilled him on his donations to Democrats and his insults to women, most recently Ted Cruz’s wife.

“Wouldn’t it be a good way to start off your Wisconsin campaign by saying that wives should be off-limits and that you apologize for mocking her looks?” Charlie Sykes asked Donald Trump during the interview.

Charlie Sykes also wrongfooted Donald Trump on air by revealing he was part of the #NeverTrump movement.

Conservative websites The Federalist and RedState said Donald Trump “fell apart live on-air when asked tough questions”.

Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker said on March 29 he was backing Ted Cruz because he was the candidate most likely to win the election in November.