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Michael Brown was robbery suspect before being shot by Officer Darren Wilson

Nancy Clayson
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Michael Brown was robbery suspect before being shot by Officer Darren Wilson

Michael Brown was a suspect in a robbery just moments earlier he was shot by police on Saturday in Ferguson, Missouri, police have said.

Michael Brown, 18, was one of two men suspected of robbing a nearby convenience store, police say.

Minutes later he was shot by Officer Darren Wilson after a struggle, Ferguson police Chief Thomas Jackson said on Friday.

The killing sparked days of violent protests in Ferguson.

Thomas Jackson described the robbery at the convenience store as being committed without the use of a weapon.

Police released to the press pictures of a well-built black man intimidating a clerk in the store.

The report identifies Michael Brown, who is described as being 6ft 4in and 292 pounds, as one of the robbers.

It says he “grabbed a box of Swisher Sweet cigars” and handed them to a second suspect identified as Michael Brown’s friend, Dorian Johnson.

Since the shooting on Saturday, Thomas Johnson has given a number of interviews in which he has said Michael Brown held up his hands in an act of surrender before being shot by the officer.

He has not mentioned his involvement in any robbery.

Michael Brown was suspected in strong-arm robbery before being shot by police
Michael Brown was suspected in strong-arm robbery before being shot by police

Darren Wilson, the police officer said to have shot Michael Brown, is a six-year veteran of the police force with no disciplinary record, Thomas Jackson said.

Thomas Jackson said he was treated for injuries sustained during the confrontation with Michael Brown, but he provided no other details of the deadly encounter.

Members of the majority black Ferguson community reacted angrily to the announcement that Michael Brown was a police suspect.

The revelations came after days of furious protests in Ferguson over the killing, to which police responded with tear gas and rubber bullets.

On Thursday night, tension seemed to ease, at least momentarily, as state police took charge of security.

Captain Ronald Johnson of the Missouri Highway Patrol, an African-American who grew up nearby, was named as the new head of the operation.

The previous evening, the reverberations from the Mid-west town were felt nationwide with dozens of vigils organized by a social media campaign.

The event in Washington DC was attended by hundreds of people in Malcolm X Park, many holding placards saying: “Hands up. Don’t shoot”.

Similar vigils were held in New York, Boston, Detroit, Chicago and many other cities.

They came at the end of a day when Missouri Governor Jay Nixon likened the scenes of violence in Ferguson to a “war zone” and the police conduct was questioned.

Attorney General Eric Holder said the use of military equipment and vehicles in Ferguson had sent a “conflicting message”, while President Barack Obama said there was no excuse for police using “excessive force”.

Barack Obama has promised a full investigation by the US Department of Justice into the teenager’s death, and the FBI has launched its own inquiry.

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Coca-Cola buys 16.7% stake in Monster Beverage for $2.15 billion

Clyde K. Valle
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Coca-Cola buys 16.7% stake in Monster Beverage for $2.15 billion

Coca-Cola has bought a 16.7% stake in Monster Beverage in a cash deal, as it looks for growth away from fizzy drinks.

In the $2.15 billion deal, Coca-Cola will transfer its worldwide energy business to Monster.

In exchange, Monster will transfer its non-energy business, which includes Peace Tea and Hansen’s Natural Sodas, to Coca-Cola.

The deal gives Monster access to Coca-Cola’s global distribution system.

For Coca-Cola, the partnership will give it the opportunity to increase its market share in the fast-growing energy drinks market.

Coca-Cola has bought a 16.7 percent stake in Monster Beverage in a cash deal
Coca-Cola has bought a 16.7 percent stake in Monster Beverage in a cash deal

Muhtar Kent, chairman at Coca-Cola, said in a statement: “The Coca-Cola Company continues to identify innovative approaches to partnerships that enable us to stay at the forefront of consumer trends in the beverage industry.”

He added that “investment in Monster is a capital efficient way to bolster our participation in the fast-growing and attractive global energy drinks category”.

Also in the same statement, Monster chairman Rodney C. Sacks said the deal gives the company “enhanced access to the Coca-Cola Company’s distribution system, the most powerful and extensive system in the world. At the same time, we become The Coca-Cola Company’s exclusive energy play”.

The deal is subject to regulatory approvals, and both companies hope the transaction will close by early next year.

Monster shares surged 22% in after-hours trading on the news, while Coca-Cola shares rose 1.2%.

Coca-Cola is the world’s largest beverage company, with more than 500 brands to its name, including Diet Coke, Fanta and Minute Maid.

The deal comes as consumers in developed economies and more mature markets are turning health-conscious.

One effect of that is they are staying away from fizzy drinks and soda which have high sugar content and are widely known to cause weight gain and in some cases, lead to obesity.

Coca-Cola has been grappling with falling sales from products that used to be its core revenue driver.

Anna Kendrick denies dating Alfie Allen

Lisa.Felice
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Anna Kendrick denies dating Alfie Allen

Anna Kendrick let her Twitter followers know on August 13 that despite the romance rumors going around about her and Game of Thrones star Alfie Allen, she is not dating the HBO actor.

“Ahh, this has been hilarious and all but, nope. My apologies to Mr. Allen, who must be equally confused,” Anna Kendrick, 29, tweeted, and later deleted.

Anna Kendrick denies dating Alfie Allen
Anna Kendrick denies dating Alfie Allen

This message was in response to a New York Post report that claimed Anna Kendrick and Alfie Allen were an item after they were allegedly spotted on a date at Las Vegas’ SushiSamba this past week.

Anna Kendrick called it quits with director and producer Edgar Wright this past year after dating for four years. Before Alfie Allen, she hadn’t been romantically connected to anyone since her breakup.

Alfie Allen, the 27-year-old brother to pop star Lily Allen, reportedly broke up with actress Jaime Winstone this past month.

Riley Keough: Elvis Presley’s granddaughter engaged to Ben Smith-Petersen

Lisa.Felice
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Riley Keough: Elvis Presley’s granddaughter engaged to Ben Smith-Petersen

Elvis Presley’s granddaughter, Riley Keough, is engaged to Ben Smith-Petersen.

Ben Smith-Petersen announced the news via Facebook on August 14.

Riley Keough is engaged to Ben Smith-Petersen
Riley Keough is engaged to Ben Smith-Petersen (photo Facebook)

“So that happened,” the stuntman captioned a picture of the two snuggling.

Actress Riley Keough, 25, went without makeup for the ceremony and showed off her gorgeous engagement ring.

Lisa Marie Presley’s daughter and Ben Smith-Petersen first met while filming Mad Max: Fury Road in 2012.

In 2012, Riley Keough was engaged to her Magic Mike co-star Alex Pettyfer. She was also linked to Ryan Cabrera, and denied rumors she hooked up with Robert Pattinson in July 2013.

Paul Walker theft: James Brooks Witty sentenced to six months in jail

Lisa.Felice
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Paul Walker theft: James Brooks Witty sentenced to six months in jail

Jameson Brooks Witty, one of the two suspects accused of stealing the roof of the burned-out Porsche Paul Walker was a passenger in at the time of his death last year, has been jailed for six months.

One of the two suspects accused of stealing the roof of the burned-out Porsche Paul Walker was a passenger in at the time of his death has been jailed for six months
One of the two suspects accused of stealing the roof of the burned-out Porsche Paul Walker was a passenger in at the time of his death has been jailed for six months (photo PA)

Teenager Jameson Brooks Witty and his co-defendant, Anthony Edward Janow, 26, pleaded no contest to misdemeanor charges of destroying evidence, grand theft and resisting or delaying a police officer last week, after allegedly walking off with the roof panel from a tow truck carrying the destroyed Porsche Carrera GT from the crash site.

The car burst into flames after it crashed into a post in Santa Clarita, California, killing the driver and Paul Walker on November 30, 2013.

On Thursday, James Brooks Witty was sentenced to serve the maximum punishment for the crimes.

Anthony Edward Janow is set to learn his fate on October 23.

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Ford recalls more than 83,000 vehicles over faulty part

Clyde K. Valle
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Ford recalls more than 83,000 vehicles over faulty part

Ford has announced it is recalling 83,250 cars because a faulty part could cause them to lose power or roll away if they are parked, Associated Press reported.

The recall involves the 2012-2014 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX; the 2013-2014 Ford Flex and Lincoln MKT; and the 2013-2014 Ford Taurus and Lincoln MKS.

Ford is recalling 83,250 cars because a faulty part could cause them to lose power or roll away if they're parked
Ford is recalling 83,250 cars because a faulty part could cause them to lose power or roll away if they’re parked

The carmaker says that due to the improper installation of a clip in the axle, the halfshaft can disengage from the linkshaft. If that happens, power won’t be transmitted to the wheels, increasing the risk of a crash. Also, the vehicles could roll out of the “park” position if the emergency brake isn’t engaged.

The company says there have been no reports of injuries or accidents related to the defect.

Ford will notify owners and begin free repairs by the end of August.

Michael Brown shooting: Vigils in Ferguson and nationwide

Nancy Clayson
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Michael Brown shooting: Vigils in Ferguson and nationwide

Vigils have been held across the US in honor of Michael Brown, the black teenager killed by police in Missouri.

Moments of silence and protests were held in New York, Chicago, Atlanta and elsewhere, five days after Michael Brown, 18, was fatally shot.

After four nights of violence in Ferguson, Missouri, where Michael Brown died, state police took charge of security.

In contrast on Thursday evening, state troopers and local police walked with protestors, shaking their hands.

Captain Ronald Johnson of the Missouri Highway Patrol, an African-American who grew up nearby, was named as the new head of the operation.

As he walked at the front of a march through the streets, he was seen hugging people he met.

“We all want justice. We all want answers,” Ronald Johnson said.

For the first time, the reverberations from this Midwest town were felt nationwide with dozens of vigils organized by a social media campaign.

Vigils have been held across the US in honor of Michael Brown, the black teenager killed by police in Missouri
Vigils have been held across the US in honor of Michael Brown, the black teenager killed by police in Missouri

The event in Washington DC was attended by hundreds of people in Malcolm X Park, many holding placards saying: “Hands up. Don’t shoot”.

Similar vigils were held in New York, Boston, Detroit, Chicago and many other cities.

They came at the end of a day when Missouri Governor Jay Nixon had likened the scenes of violence in Ferguson to a “war zone” and the police conduct was questioned.

Attorney General Eric Holder said the use of military equipment and vehicles in Ferguson had sent a “conflicting message”, while President Barack Obama said there was no excuse for police using “excessive force”.

Governor Jay Nixon then announced that the state highway patrol would direct the security operation.

Hours later, reporter Wesley Lowery of the Washington Post summed up the change in atmosphere on the streets of Ferguson.

“At this time at night on Monday, residents were in real fear for their lives,” he said.

“Tonight they’re taking selfies with cops.”

The tension in Ferguson had been sparked by the death of Michael Brown on Saturday afternoon.

Details about the incident have been disputed but eyewitnesses said the unarmed teenager had his arms raised when he was shot multiple times by a police officer.

Police say there was a struggle and the officer suffered facial injuries.

The authorities are under pressure to release the officer’s name, but they say they are worried that his life and that of his family could be in danger.

Four nights of violence have seen heavily armed riot police firing tear gas at demonstrators and looting, arson and the throwing of bottles and Molotov cocktails.

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WHO: Scale of Ebola outbreak vastly underestimated

Kathryn R. Bown
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WHO: Scale of Ebola outbreak vastly underestimated

According to the World Health Organization, the scale of the Ebola outbreak appears to be “vastly underestimated”, as the death toll from the disease reaches 1,069.

The WHO said its staff had seen evidence that the numbers of reported cases and deaths do not reflect the scale of the crisis.

The UN health agency said in a statement that “extraordinary measures” were needed.

The outbreak began in Guinea in February and has since spread to Liberia, Sierra Leone and Nigeria.

However, the WHO said the risk of transmission of Ebola during air travel remained low, as the disease is not airborne.

As a consequence, Kenya Airways has rejected pressure to suspend its flights to the Ebola-hit states of West Africa.

The Ebola virus death toll reaches 1,069 in West Africa
The Ebola virus death toll reaches 1,069 in West Africa (photo AP)

The WHO said the outbreak was expected to continue “for some time”.

“Staff at the outbreak sites see evidence that the numbers of reported cases and deaths vastly underestimate the magnitude of the outbreak,” its statement said.

“WHO is co-ordinating a massive scaling up of the international response.”

Part of the challenge was the fact that the outbreak was in “settings characterized by extreme poverty, dysfunctional health systems, a severe shortage of doctors and rampant fear”, the WHO added.

Two people have died in Nigeria after drinking a salt solution rumored to prevent Ebola infection.

Text messages began circulating in Nigeria towards the end of last week recommending that people drink and bath in a salt solution as a way to stop getting the virus, for which there is no cure or vaccine.

Despite the health minister scotching the rumor, many people have been admitted into hospital after drinking salt water.

Ebola is transmitted by direct contact with the body fluids of a person who is infected.

Initial flu-like symptoms can lead to external hemorrhaging from areas such as eyes and gums, and internal bleeding which can lead to organ failure.

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Cliff Richard’s UK property searched by police over alleged assault

Lisa.Felice
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Cliff Richard’s UK property searched by police over alleged assault

Cliff Richard’s Berkshire property has been searched by police in relation to an alleged historical assault on a teenage boy.

No arrests have been made and Cliff Richard, 73, who is abroad, said the allegation was “completely false”.

Police said the allegation involved a boy under 16.

The alleged assault happened at a 1985 event where preacher Billy Graham appeared at Bramall Lane, Sheffield.

The allegation is believed to have been reported to police recently.

The search in Sunningdale was carried out by South Yorkshire Police.

The investigation is not connected to Operation Yewtree and police said officers from that operation – set up by the Metropolitan Police to investigate hundreds of allegations in the wake of the Jimmy Savile scandal – had been notified.

Cliff Richard’s Berkshire property has been searched by police in relation to an alleged historical assault on a teenage boy
Cliff Richard’s Berkshire property has been searched by police in relation to an alleged historical assault on a teenage boy (photo Getty Images)

Thames Valley Police said it had assisted the South Yorkshire force with the execution of a search warrant at the property.

Eight plain-clothed police officers in five unmarked cars arrived to conduct the search.

Cliff Richard has responded to the police search of his apartment in a statement, which said: “For many months I have been aware of allegations against me of historic impropriety which have been circulating online.

“The allegations are completely false. Up until now I have chosen not to dignify the false allegations with a response, as it would just give them more oxygen.

“However, the police attended my apartment in Berkshire today without notice, except it would appear to the press.

“I am not presently in the UK but it goes without saying that I will cooperate fully should the police wish to speak to me. Beyond stating that today’s allegation is completely false it would not be appropriate to say anything further until the police investigation has concluded.”

Cliff Richard’s spokesman said the singer would not be conducting interviews at this time.

The singer left his home there on Thursday morning and has travelled with his sister to another part of Portugal for a few days.

Cliff Richard, born Harry Webb, is one of the most successful British musicians of all time.

Sir Cliff Richard was knighted in 1995 and performed at the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee concert at Buckingham Palace in 2012.

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Iraq: Nouri al-Maliki agrees to step aside in favor of Haider al-Abadi

Diane A. Wade
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Iraq: Nouri al-Maliki agrees to step aside in favor of Haider al-Abadi

Iraq’s PM Nouri al-Maliki has agreed to step aside, ending political deadlock in Baghdad as the government struggles against insurgents.

His replacement, Haider al-Abadi, has already been asked by Iraq’s president to form a new government.

Nouri al-Maliki was under intense pressure to make way for Haider al-Abadi, a deputy speaker of parliament.

Iraq’s PM Nouri al-Maliki has agreed to step aside, ending political deadlock in Baghdad
Iraq’s PM Nouri al-Maliki has agreed to step aside, ending political deadlock in Baghdad

An offensive led by Islamic State (IS) rebels in the north has triggered a security and humanitarian crisis.

Nouri al-Maliki’s spokesman, Ali Mussawi, told AFP news agency that the outgoing Shia Muslim prime minister would drop his bid to remain in his post.

“Maliki will withdraw the complaint against the president and will back the prime minister designate,” he said.

The move, also confirmed by Shia Muslim members of parliament to AP news agency, was announced by state TV.

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Michael Jackson’s new single A Place with No Name premieres on Twitter

Sonia Pantiss
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Michael Jackson’s new single A Place with No Name premieres on Twitter

Epic Records has premiered a video for Michael Jackson’s new single A Place with No Name on Twitter, which is more commonly used to provide links to others’ material.

To promote the event, Twitter created a map showing Michael Jackson’s top-tweeted songs in different countries.

The release comes in the same week that Twitter declared its goal was to bring “more video into our users’ timelines”.

It added that it sought to make money by charging for “promoted” slots.

“We now offer advertisers the ability to run ads with a new cost per view (CPV) ad buying model,” David Regan, senior product manager, TV and Video wrote on its advertising news page.

Michael Jackson’s A Place with No Name is the first video to premiered on Twitter
Michael Jackson’s A Place with No Name is the first video to premiered on Twitter (photo Wikipedia)

“This means advertisers only get charged when a user starts playing the video.

“Additionally, advertisers using Promoted Video have access to robust video analytics, including completion percentage and a breakout of organic versus paid video views.”

Twitter began experimenting with video in 2012 when it allowed users to embed YouTube links into tweets.

At the start of 2013, it launched the Vine app, which allowed the creation of six second videos designed to play on a loop in newsfeeds.

A few months later it rolled out its Amplify program, which allows advertisers to pay for short pre-roll sponsorship clips that run before videos posted by a select number of organizations.

Video ads have already proved to be a big revenue generator for Twitter’s rival Facebook.

Unlike Facebook, Twitter’s ads will not auto-play when they appear, at least at this stage.

A Place with No Name comes from a recently released posthumous album that features previously unreleased tracks recorded by Michael Jackson between 1983 and 1999.

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Susan Schneider reveals Robin Williams had Parkinson’s at time of his death

Lisa.Felice
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Susan Schneider reveals Robin Williams had Parkinson’s at time of his death

Susan Schneider has revealed that her late husband Robin Williams was suffering from the early stages of Parkinson’s disease at the time of his death.

Susan Schneider said Robin Williams had been sober but “not yet ready to share publicly” his struggles with Parkinson’s.

She added that the actor had also been suffering from anxiety and depression.

Robin Williams was found dead in an apparent suicide in his home on Monday. He was 63.

Police said Robin Williams died of asphyxia due to hanging.

Susan Schneider has revealed that her late husband Robin Williams was suffering from the early stages of Parkinson's disease at the time of his death
Susan Schneider has revealed that her late husband Robin Williams was suffering from the early stages of Parkinson’s disease at the time of his death (photo Getty Images)

“His greatest legacy, besides his three children, is the joy and happiness he offered to others, particularly to those fighting personal battles,” Susan Schneider said in a statement, adding her husband’s sobriety was “intact”.

“It is our hope in the wake of Robin’s tragic passing that others will find the strength to seek the care and support they need to treat whatever battles they are facing so they may feel less afraid.”

Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative neurological disorder.

It is believed that the disease is brought on by a mixture of genetic and environmental factors, but the exact cause is still unknown.

Parkinson’s symptoms can include tremors and other uncontrollable movements, impaired balance and co-ordination, stiffness, slowness of movement, loss of smell, a decline in intellectual functioning, and speech and swallowing problems.

It is estimated to affect about five million people worldwide and usually, but not always, occurs in old age. The statement did not specify when Robin Williams had been diagnosed.

In the past, Robin Williams had talked and even joked about his struggles with alcohol and drugs and had returned to rehab to “fine tune” his sobriety earlier in the year.

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Igor Strelkov: Ukraine rebel military chief resigns

Roy Siemens
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Igor Strelkov: Ukraine rebel military chief resigns

Igor Girkin, the military leader of pro-Russian rebels in the eastern Ukrainian city of Donetsk, also known as Igor Ivanovich Strelkov, has resigned.

Alexander Borodai, the former PM of the self-declared Donetsk People’s Republic, confirmed the news but denied reports Igor Strelkov had been wounded.

There has been heavy shelling both in Donetsk and Luhansk as Ukrainian forces battle the separatists.

The news came with a disputed Russian aid convoy stationed near the border.

Alexander Borodai confirmed Igor Strelkov’s departure to Russian media but gave no reason.

He said reports that Igor Strelkov, a Russian citizen, had been injured were “total rubbish”.

“You probably already know that he, like myself, has left his post,” Alexander Borodai said in a video posted by Russia’s pro-Kremlin Life News website.

Igor Girkin, the military leader of pro-Russian rebels in the eastern Ukrainian city of Donetsk, also known as Igor Ivanovich Strelkov, has resigned.
Igor Girkin, the military leader of pro-Russian rebels in the eastern Ukrainian city of Donetsk, also known as Igor Ivanovich Strelkov, has resigned (photo Reuters)

“The [Donetsk People’s Republic] already has a new defense minister.”

Alexander Borodai said the new minister went by the nom de guerre Tsar. His name was given by other sources as Vladimir Kononov.

There have been two other high-profile resignations of rebel leaders in the past week.

Alexander Borodai handed over to Alexander Zakharchenko as “prime minister” in Donetsk and the rebel chief in Luhansk, Valery Bolotov, said he was temporarily handing over to his defense minister, Igor Plotnitskiy.

The Russian aid convoy of at least 260 trucks, which moved towards the border on Thursday, has now halted.

There is continuing confusion over the final destination.

Russia has dismissed as absurd claims that its convoy is a pretext to send military supplies to the rebels.

However, Ukraine has said the Russian convoy must be inspected by international monitors before it can be let in.

Andriy Lysenko, a spokesman for Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council, said that if this did not happen, “movement of the convoy will be blocked with all the forces available”.

Artillery fire could be heard all around Donetsk on Thursday, with the authorities urging people to stay off the streets.

Two shopping centers were reportedly hit and at least one person killed.

The situation was reported to be desperate in Luhansk, where civilians have been short of water, food and electricity for more than a week. Phone lines are also down as shelling continues.

Dmitry Medvedev’s Twitter account hacked by Shaltay-Boltay

Nancy Clayson
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Dmitry Medvedev’s Twitter account hacked by Shaltay-Boltay

Russian PM Dmitry Medvedev’s Twitter account was hacked on Thursday with the infiltrators posting a message claiming the premier had resigned.

The Russian-language feed, which has more than 2.5 million followers, was also filled with tweets denouncing President Vladimir Putin.

The impersonator wrote that Dmitry Medvedev would be pursuing a new career as a freelance photographer.

A Russian hacking collective has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Hackers wrote on Dmitry Medvedev’s Twitter account that he had resign and would be pursuing a new career as a freelance photographer
Hackers wrote on Dmitry Medvedev’s Twitter account that he had resign and would be pursuing a new career as a freelance photographer (photo Twitter)

The government quickly confirmed the account had been hacked.

“I resign. I am ashamed of the government’s actions. I’m sorry,” the infiltrators initially wrote, following it up with tweets saying that electricity would be banned, and that Vladimir Putin was “wrong”.

Shaltay-Boltay, a Russian hacking collective, has said it carried out the attack.

The group, whose name is Russian for Humpty Dumpty, also claimed it had infiltrated the Gmail account and iPhones of Dmitry Medvedev.

Shaltay-Boltay tweeted: “Several mail accounts – including the Gmail – and the content of three iPhones of a certain prime minister have randomly fallen into our hands on the internet. Details later.”

Dmitry Medvedev’s English-language Twitter account did not appear to be affected by the attack.

Obesity linked to 10 of most common cancers

Kathryn R. Bown
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Obesity linked to 10 of most common cancers

Obesity puts people at greater risk of developing 10 of the most common cancers, according to research in the Lancet medical journal.

Scientists warn if obesity levels continue to rise there may be an additional 3,700 cancers diagnosed annually.

The study of five million people is the largest to date to confirm the link.

Doctors often warn being overweight can increase the risk of developing cancer, but this study highlights those forms of the disease where the risk is greatest.

Scientists from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine researchers gathered data on five million people living in the UK, monitoring changes to their health over a period of seven years.

They found each 2-2.5 stone of extra weight an average adult gained was linked firmly and linearly to a greater risk of six cancers.

Obesity puts people at greater risk of developing 10 of the most common cancers
Obesity puts people at greater risk of developing 10 of the most common cancers

How big this risk was varied depending on tumor type.

  • Cancer of the uterus had the highest increased risk
  • gallbladder
  • kidney
  • cervix
  • thyroid
  • leukaemia had the lowest rise in risk.

People who had a high body mass index (calculated using weight and height) were also more likely to develop cancer of the liver, colon, ovaries, and post-menopausal breast cancer.

However, the effects for these cancers were less clear-cut and were influenced by individual factors such as the menopause.

There is some evidence to suggest a higher BMI is associated with a lower chance of getting prostate cancer.

Dr. Krishnan Bhaskaran, who led the research, said: “There was a lot of variation in the effect of BMI on different cancers.

“For example, risk of cancer of the uterus increased substantially at higher body mass index, for other cancer we saw a more modest increase in risk or no effect at all.

“This variation tells us BMI must affect cancer risk through a number of different processes, depending on cancer type.”

Pope Francis leaves Seoul airport in boxy Kia Soul

Nancy Clayson
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Pope Francis leaves Seoul airport in boxy Kia Soul

Pope Francis left Seoul airport in a compact black Kia that many South Koreans would consider too humble a conveyance for a globally powerful figure.

In a live television broadcast, Pope Francis climbed into the backseat of the boxy Kia Soul, rolled down the window and waved.

Pope Francis‘ frugality and humble demeanor have received wide coverage in South Korea, a fiercely competitive country that celebrates ostentatious displays of status and wealth. This national trait can be seen in booming industries such as private tutoring and plastic surgery.

Pope Francis left Seoul airport in a compact black Kia that many South Koreans would consider too humble a conveyance for a globally powerful figure
Pope Francis left Seoul airport in a compact black Kia that many South Koreans would consider too humble a conveyance for a globally powerful figure (photo AP)

The images of the smiling pope in his little car struck a chord online, with many playing on the car’s name.

For the man called “The People’s Pope” the choice makes sense. Pope Francis has eschewed the bulletproof “popemobiles” that his predecessors used on foreign trips and urged priests around the world to travel in low-key cars.

Inside the Vatican City, Pope Francis prefers a blue Ford Focus, or when he’s out in St. Peter’s Square, a white open-topped vehicle that allows him to literally reach out and touch the masses.

South Korean media widely reported that the pope requested the smallest South Korean car during his visit. The Soul is Kia’s second-smallest model and reportedly provides more leg room than other compact cars.

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Luis Suarez bite: Court of Arbitration for Sport upholds four-month ban

Clyde K. Valle
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Luis Suarez bite: Court of Arbitration for Sport upholds four-month ban

The Court of Arbitration for Sport has upheld Luis Suarez’s four-month ban, but the Uruguay striker can now train with new club Barcelona.

A full explanation of the ruling will not be published until a later date.

Luis Suarez’s lawyers argued world governing body FIFA’s decision to suspend him from all “football-related activity” for biting Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini at the World Cup was excessive.

Luis Suarez, 27, will be available from El Clasico at Real Madrid on October 26.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport has upheld Luis Suarez’s four-month ban, but the Uruguay striker can now train with new club Barcelona
The Court of Arbitration for Sport has upheld Luis Suarez’s four-month ban, but the Uruguay striker can now train with new club Barcelona

The Uruguay striker will continue to serve a nine-match international ban but, having previously been banned from all “football-related activity”, he can now train and attend matches.

“The sanctions imposed on the player by FIFA have been generally confirmed,” the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) said in a statement.

CAS described the ban imposed by FIFA on Luis Suarez from taking part in any football activity as “excessive”.

The panel ruled banning Luis Suarez from training would have meant the ban would still have an impact on the player after the end of the suspension.

Luis Suarez’s legal team said the appeal was a success after they argued FIFA had “misapplied its own rules when considering the case and the sanction it imposed was disproportionate”.

Although the team confirmed the possibility of appealing the CAS decision to the Swiss Supreme Court, the grounds for appeal are “very restricted”.

Luis Suarez was a Liverpool player at the time of his clash with Giorgio Chiellini but has since left to join Barcelona in a $120 million deal.

Kevin Ward Sr. blames Tony Stewart for striking and killing his son

Clyde K. Valle
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Kevin Ward Sr. blames Tony Stewart for striking and killing his son

Kevin Ward’s father spoke publicly for the first time about the death of his son, and blamed Tony Stewart for striking and killing the 20-year-old sprint driver during a race at Canandaigua Motorsports Park on Saturday night.

Kevin Ward Jr. and Tony Stewart had contact during an Empire Super Sprints Series race in the upstate New York half-mile dirt track. Afterward, Kevin Ward got out of his car, ran onto the track and angrily gestured at Tony Stewart. Seconds later, Tony Stewart’s right-rear tire struck Kevin Ward Jr. and threw him an estimated 20 to 30 feet, fatally injuring him.

Kevin Ward Sr. placed the blame for his son’s death on Tony Stewart, who has not spoken publicly since the accident.

“The reason he [Kevin Ward Jr.] probably got out of that car is who put him into the wall. He was definitely put into the wall,” Kevin Ward Sr. told Syracuse.com.

“Tony Stewart was the best damn driver by far on the track that night. Why he had to go up as high as he did and hog my son, there’s no reason for it.

Tony Stewart's right-rear tire struck Kevin Ward Jr. and threw him an estimated 20 to 30 feet, fatally injuring him
Tony Stewart’s right-rear tire struck Kevin Ward Jr. and threw him an estimated 20 to 30 feet, fatally injuring him

“Apparently, Tony Stewart was the only one driving out there who didn’t see him,” Kevin Ward Sr. told the website, noting that several other drivers on track avoided his son.

” … The one person that knows what happened that night is possibly facing 10 years in prison. Is he going to say what he done?”

Sunday afternoon, Tony Stewart issued the following statement: “There aren’t words to describe the sadness I feel about the accident that took the life of Kevin Ward Jr. It’s a very emotional time for all involved, and it is the reason I’ve decided not to participate in today’s race at Watkins Glen. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and everyone affected by this tragedy.”

The visitation for Kevin Ward Jr. was scheduled for August 13 from at Trainor Funeral Home in Boonville, N.Y.

The funeral is scheduled for 11 a.m. on August 14 at South Lewis High School.

Ontario County Sheriff Philip Povero said he expects the investigation of the accident and Ward’s death to take at least two more weeks.

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Robin Williams death: Broadway lights dimmed in memory of comedic genius

Sonia Pantiss
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Robin Williams death: Broadway lights dimmed in memory of comedic genius

Broadway’s lights were dimmed on August 13 in memory of Robin Williams following the actor’s death earlier this week.

Charlotte St Martin of New York’s Broadway League called Robin Williams “a comedic genius with limitless talent” who had “left this world far too early”.

Robin Williams, who took his own life at the age of 63, will also be remembered at the Primetime Emmy Awards on August 25.

Plans are under way for a “proper and meaningful remembrance”, said executive producer Don Mischer.

Broadway's lights were dimmed on August 13 in memory of Robin Williams
Broadway’s lights were dimmed on August 13 in memory of Robin Williams (photo US TV)

Robin Williams made an appearance at last year’s ceremony during an In Memoriam segment to his comic mentor, Jonathan Winters.

Simon Pegg has become the latest celebrity to pay tribute to Robin Williams, who will be heard voicing a dog in Pegg’s upcoming comedy Absolutely Anything.

Robin Williams, said Simon Pegg at the premiere of his new movie Hector and the Search for Happiness, was “an extraordinary man and performer” who had “absolutely” been one of his comedy heroes.

Sinead O’Connor also paid tribute to Robin Williams by dedicating a concert in London to him on Tuesday.

The Irish performer went on to say “the choice that Robin made” was “a very bad idea” and urged anyone “contemplating that choice” to reconsider.

Robin Williams, a dedicated fan of computer games, is also to be memorialized by Blizzard Entertainment, the company behind the popular World of Warcraft series.

“You gave us so much joy in our lives and we hope you enjoyed your time in our world,” its makers tweeted.

“We’ll see you in-game.”

The cast of Broadway show Aladdin also paid tribute to Robin Williams with an impromptu curtain call sing-along of Friend Like Me.

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Zelda Williams deletes Twitter account over abuse following Robin Williams’ death

Lisa.Felice
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Zelda Williams deletes Twitter account over abuse following Robin Williams’ death

Zelda Williams has announced that she is leaving Twitter because of social media abuse after her father Robin Williams’ death.

The 25-year-old actress posted that she was deleting Twitter account from her devices “maybe forever”.

It appears at least two people sent her “photoshopped” images claiming to show Robin Williams’ body.

Robin Williams was found dead at his California home on Monday after taking his own life at the age of 63.

Zelda Williams is leaving Twitter because of social media abuse after Robin Williams' death
Zelda Williams is leaving Twitter because of social media abuse after Robin Williams’ death (photo Getty Images)

Police said Robin Williams had been treated for depression and killed himself by hanging.

Zelda Williams initially posted a tribute to her father on Twitter saying: “I love you. I miss you. I’ll try to keep looking up.”

Later, she asked for two Twitter users to be reported for abuse, before deleting her message.

Zelda Williams said on Tuesday she had now decided to leave the site.

Earlier she posted a statement on Tumbl thanking people for support but also sending a message to “those sending negativity”.

“Know that some small, giggling part of him is sending a flock of pigeons to your house to poop on your car. Right after you’ve had it washed,” Zelda Williams said.

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Lenovo reports 23% jump in net profit for Q2 2014

Clyde K. Valle
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Lenovo reports 23% jump in net profit for Q2 2014

Lenovo has reported a 23% jump in net profit for Q2 2014 as laptop sales outperformed industry average.

For the three months to June, net profit rose to $214 million. Revenue in the same quarter jumped 18% from the previous year to $10.4 billion.

Lenovo’s core business lies in personal computers and accounts for 49% of total revenue in the quarter to June.

Laptop sales rose 12% in that period, when the industry was in a downturn.

The world’s biggest maker of personal computers said the PC industry saw a 3.7% decline in laptop shipments for the three months to June, when compared to the same period last year.

The latest figures indicate Lenovo has maintained its status as market leader for PCs, with a higher global market share of nearly 20% when compared to last year.

Lenovo has reported a 23 percent jump in net profit for Q2 2014 as laptop sales outperformed industry average
Lenovo has reported a 23 percent jump in net profit for Q2 2014 as laptop sales outperformed industry average

In a statement which accompanied the earnings release, Lenovo Chairman Yang Yuanqing said: “This has been a quarter of milestones for Lenovo – record PC share, a number three ranking in worldwide tablets for the first time and an even stronger number four global smartphone position.”

Lenovo has been making moves to diversify away from the shrinking global PC market. Its “Mobile Device Business” includes smartphones and tablets.

For the first time ever, Lenovo said it had sold more smartphones than PCs, with a record volume of 15.8 million units. That is a 39% gain from the previous year.

Yang Yuanqing also said: “As the PC industry recovers, the smartphone market continues its shift from premium to mainstream, and our acquisitions of Motorola Mobility and IBM x86 proceed toward completion, we see even more opportunity to keep growing rapidly.

“Lenovo continues to outperform the market and meet our commitments to improve profitability in our core businesses, while building strong pillars for future growth across our entire portfolio.”

The company has been on an acquisition spree. Earlier this year it struck a deal to acquire IBM’s low-end server unit.

Lenovo is also in the process of acquiring Motorola’s handset business from Google.

Both deals are awaiting regulatory approval, which analysts say could come as early as the third quarter of this year.

Chris Brown appears in LA court for progress report

Lisa.Felice
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0
Chris Brown appears in LA court for progress report

Chris Brown appeared in a Los Angeles court on August 13 for a progress report.

Judge James Brandlin reduced Chris Brown’s drug test requirement from three times to twice a week and said he’s been in compliance with his probation officer and cooperating with his therapist.

Chris Brown was on probation after he attacked pop singer Rihanna
Chris Brown was on probation after he attacked pop singer Rihanna (photo Getty Images)

The probation department asked that Chris Brown’s community labor requirement be bumped from three days a week to four, but Judge James Brandlin denied the request.

The 25-year-old rapper was jailed from mid-March until early June for violating his probation by getting into an altercation outside a Washington, D.C., hotel last year.

Chris Brown was on probation after he attacked pop singer Rihanna, his then-girlfriend, before the 2009 Grammy Awards.

Scott Disick buys 45 boxes of Burger King 9-piece chicken fries

Lisa.Felice
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0
Scott Disick buys 45 boxes of Burger King 9-piece chicken fries

Scott Disick took to Instagram on Wednesday, August 13, to show off his purchase of 45 boxes of Burger King 9-piece chicken fries.

“Thank the Lord @BurgerKing #ChickenFriesareBack #bkpdpartner,” Kourtney Kardashian’s longtime boyfriend captioned the picture.

Scott Disick showed off his purchase of 45 boxes of Burger King 9-piece chicken fries
Scott Disick showed off his purchase of 45 boxes of Burger King 9-piece chicken fries (photo Instagram)

News of the reinstated specialty menu item hit on Monday, August 11, when Burger King’s official account tweeted: “Yes, this is real life. #Chickenfriesareback,” causing widespread celebration.

Scott Disick’s hashtag indicates he is a paid partner of the fast food chain. In total he spent $205.28 on the chicken fries, paying the lofty bill in cash.

Catherine Zeta-Jones lists New York country home for $8.1 million

Lisa.Felice
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0
Catherine Zeta-Jones lists New York country home for $8.1 million

Catherine Zeta-Jones put on the market the Bedford, New York home, where she lived during her separation from Michael Douglas, for $8.1 million.

Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas, who announced their separation in 2013, have recently reconciled, according to reports.

Catherine Zeta-Jones moved to the Bedford country home during her separation from Michael Douglas
Catherine Zeta-Jones moved to the Bedford country home during her separation from Michael Douglas (photo Getty Images)

The couple rented the six-bedroom, six-bath brick colonial at 541 Guard Hill Road for about six months before buying it for $5.075 million in 2010.

Catherine Zeta-Jones moved to the estate when the couple split up and spent time there riding horses.

According to the listing, the home was recently renovated. There is a new guesthouse and a master suite with huge closets and a dressing room.

At the time of their separation, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas also owned homes in Manhattan, England and Bermuda.

Michael Brown shooting: Missouri riots continue during fourth night of unrest

Nancy Clayson
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Michael Brown shooting: Missouri riots continue during fourth night of unrest

Protesters and police have clashed again in Ferguson, Missouri, during a fourth night of unrest since black teenager Michael Brown was shot dead by police.

Crowds gathered in the St Louis suburb on Wednesday night despite a police order to leave by the end of the day. Tear gas was fired at angry protesters.

Eyewitnesses have said Michael Brown, 18, had his arms raised when he was shot dead by an officer on Saturday.

Police say there was a struggle and the officer suffered facial injuries.

Earlier on Wednesday, the St Louis County Police Department asked protesters to gather only in the daylight hours and to disperse “well before the evening hours” for safety reasons.

The plea came after three nights of tense, sometimes violent protests that resulted in dozens of arrests, looting and the burning of a shop.

Protesters and police have clashed again in Ferguson, Missouri, during a fourth night of unrest since black teenager Michael Brown was shot dead by police
Protesters and police have clashed again in Ferguson, Missouri, during a fourth night of unrest since black teenager Michael Brown was shot dead by police (photo AP)

Despite this appeal to stay away, and an earlier call for calm from President Barack Obama, the anger seemed as palpable as ever on the streets of Ferguson on Wednesday night.

Heavily armored vehicles blocked off streets and protesters linked arms defiantly as they were told through loudspeakers to leave the area or face arrest.

Molotov cocktails were thrown at lines of police and they launched smoke bombs and fired tear gas.

Two journalists were briefly detained by police earlier on Wednesday while working inside a McDonald’s restaurant.

One of them, Wesley Lowery of the Washington Post, later tweeted: “Apparently, in America, in 2014, police can manhandle you, take you into custody, put you in cell & then open the door like it didn’t happen.”

Civil rights activists and Michael Brown’s family and friends have called for an end to violent clashes with the police, while also demanding the Ferguson police department release the name of the officer who shot and killed the teen.

Police say the officer has not been named because his life would be in danger.

President Barack Obama has promised a full investigation by the US Department of Justice into Michael Brown’s death, and the FBI has launched its own inquiry.

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