Friday, December 21, 2012
Why Switzerland Has The Lowest Crime Rate In The World (Important to watch)
Text accompanying video:
When thinking about the mass extermination camps of a holocaust think...
The key to freedom is to be able to have the ability to defend yourself &, if you dont have the tools to do that, then youre going to be at the mercy of whomever wants to put you away.
Guns are deeply rooted within Swiss culture - but the gun crime rate is so low that statistics are not even kept.
The country has a population of six million, but there are estimated to be at least two million publicly-owned firearms, including about 600,000 automatic rifles and 500,000 pistols.
This is in a very large part due to Switzerland's unique system of national defence, developed over the centuries.
Instead of a standing, full-time army, the country requires every man to undergo some form of military training for a few days or weeks a year throughout most of their lives.
Between the ages of 21 and 32 men serve as frontline troops. They are given an M-57 assault rifle and 24 rounds of ammunition which they are required to keep at home.
Once discharged, men serve in the Swiss equivalent of the US National Guard, but still have to train occasionally and are given bolt rifles. Women do not have to own firearms, but are encouraged to.
Beirut Photographer: A photojournalist returns to Beirut to unpick the stories and people behind his iconic images of Israel's 1982 invasion
Amazing documentary, full of history.
6.8 Magnitude Earthquake VANUATU - 21st December 2012
6.8
Date-Time
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 22:28:09 UTC
Saturday, December 22, 2012 at 09:28:09 AM at epicenter
Location
14.382°S, 167.260°E
Depth
207.9 km (129.2 miles)
Region
VANUATU
Distances
129 km (80 miles) N (6°) from Santo (Luganville), Vanuatu
4.4 Magnitude Earthquake GULF OF CALIFORNIA - 21st December 2012
4.4
Date-Time
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 19:24:57 UTC
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 12:24:57 PM at epicenter
Location
27.572°N, 111.630°W
Depth
25.4 km (15.8 miles)
Region
GULF OF CALIFORNIA
Distances
70 km (43 miles) ENE of Santa Rosalia, Mexico
What if 1 of the teachers had a gun? Sandy Hook massacre begs question of how to protect children at school
The recent mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., has left many wondering how best to keep children safe from mad gunmen who ignore the “gun-free zone” laws – and indeed any gun-control laws – to open fire on our nation’s most innocent.
According to news reports of the Connecticut massacre, Adam Lanza, 20, shot his mother Nancy dead at their family home, then drove to the school, where he gunned down six more adults and 20 children, before killing himself.
But what if one of the teachers had a gun, too? Could Lanza have been stopped and many of the children’s lives saved?
The question isn’t new. Back in 1999, the year of the Columbine school shooting, an organization called Jews For The Preservation of Firearms Ownership interviewed Dr. David Th. Schiller, a leading gun-rights advocate in Europe on how to combat the school shootings that even then were deemed “quite common” on U.S. soil.
http://www.wnd.com/2012/12/what-if-1-of-the-teachers-had-a-gun/#rCtIOVyYhFRD7YyH.99
Conclusions:
#1. The photo at the top shows an Israeli school among many schools there, which are all guarded by caring, responsible adults carrying -- gasp -- rifles. Not one of those children goes to school in fear. They did, however, during the Israeli-Palestinian conflict years where schools were attacked by unscrupulous individuals. The outcome? Attacks on schools ceased entirely. In every single case, pro-gun arguments are backed by facts, and anti-gun arguments are backed by emotion (and are usually wrong). When it comes to children's safety, should we let fact or emotion guide their safety?
#2. The following link is a refresher regarding US state laws on gun ownership:
http://www2.law.ucla.edu/volokh/beararms/statecon.htm
There’s No Country That Would Tolerate Missiles
His brother as well as a 12 year old nephew remains hospitalized, the nephew is in the ICU with skull and hip fractures. His sister-in-law is blind after her head and upper body was severely burned.
His 4 year-old niece suffers severe burns and a fractured leg stabilized by an external fixation device. In this kind of reduction, holes are drilled into uninjured areas of bones around the fracture and special bolts or wires are screwed into the holes. Outside the body, a rod or a curved piece of metal with special ball-and-socket joints joins the bolts to make a rigid support.
http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article33269.htm
3,000 US troops secretly return to Iraq via Kuwait
Over 3,000 US troops have secretly returned to Iraq via Kuwait for missions pertaining to the recent developments in Syria and northern Iraq, Press TV reports.
According to our correspondent, the US troops have secretly entered Iraq in multiple stages and are mostly stationed at Balad military garrison in Salahuddin province and al-Asad air base in al-Anbar province.
Reports say the troops include US Army officers and almost 17,000 more are set to secretly return to Iraq via the same route.
http://www.presstv.ir/detail/2012/12/09/277127/3000-us-troops-secretly-return-to-iraq/
According to our correspondent, the US troops have secretly entered Iraq in multiple stages and are mostly stationed at Balad military garrison in Salahuddin province and al-Asad air base in al-Anbar province.
Reports say the troops include US Army officers and almost 17,000 more are set to secretly return to Iraq via the same route.
http://www.presstv.ir/detail/2012/12/09/277127/3000-us-troops-secretly-return-to-iraq/
Marine industries beware: Ice islands dead ahead
Recent years have produced a wave of ice islands. Researchers tracking the giant formations have tabulated roughly 1,000 square kilometres that have broken free from Greenland and Canada’s Arctic islands.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/industry-news/energy-and-resources/marine-industries-beware-ice-islands-dead-ahead/article5900795/
Prime Minister Mario Monti Resigns
Mr Monti, a former European commissioner, had been appointed last year to lead a technocratic government tasked with saving Italy from a worsening financial crisis.
He won plaudits in Europe for passing much-needed reforms but his austerity measures have also earned him the opposition of many Italians.
http://news.sky.com/story/1028844/italian-prime-minister-mario-monti-resigns
UN Helicopter Shot Down by Rebels: 4 Killed
The UN says one of its helicopters has been shot down in South Sudan, killing all four crew members.
UN deputy spokesman Eduardo del Buey said the South Sudanese armed forces informed the country's UN peacekeeping mission "that it has shot down the helicopter in the Likuangole area in Jonglei state".
http://news.sky.com/story/1028802/south-sudan-un-helicopter-shot-down
UN deputy spokesman Eduardo del Buey said the South Sudanese armed forces informed the country's UN peacekeeping mission "that it has shot down the helicopter in the Likuangole area in Jonglei state".
http://news.sky.com/story/1028802/south-sudan-un-helicopter-shot-down
Pennsylvania shooting: Four dead, 3 police injured
Four people were killed on Friday during a shooting in Frankstown Township, Pennsylvania, including the gunman, while three Pennsylvania state troopers were injured, the Altoona Mirror reported, citing the county prosecutor.
The gunman, two other men and a woman were killed, the newspaper said, citing Blair County District Attorney Richard Consiglio. The troopers were wounded in a shootout with the suspect, the newspaper said.
http://uk.reuters.com/article/2012/12/21/uk-usa-shooting-pennsylvania-idUKBRE8BK0Y820121221
The gunman, two other men and a woman were killed, the newspaper said, citing Blair County District Attorney Richard Consiglio. The troopers were wounded in a shootout with the suspect, the newspaper said.
http://uk.reuters.com/article/2012/12/21/uk-usa-shooting-pennsylvania-idUKBRE8BK0Y820121221
U.S. carried out 333 drone strikes in Afghanistan this year alone - more than the entire drone strikes in Pakistan over the past eight years COMBINED
The statistics, published by the U.S. Air Force and published by Wired’s Danger Room blog, show that there were 333 drone strikes in Afghanistan in 2012 alone, up from 294 in the previous year and 278 in 2010.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2251418/Revealed-U-S-carried-333-drone-strikes-Afghanistan-year--entire-drone-strikes-Pakistan-past-years-COMBINED.html
Facebook to sell access to your inbox for a dollar at a time.....I am sure the Authorities wouldn't Mind using taxpayers money for this
Facebook has launched a pilot scheme selling strangers access to users' inboxes.
The social networking website has introduced a fee, believed to be $1, to guarantee that messages are routed to a recipient's 'inbox' and not their 'other' folder, where they are likely to be ignored.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2251522/Facebook-sell-access-inbox-dollar-time.html
The social networking website has introduced a fee, believed to be $1, to guarantee that messages are routed to a recipient's 'inbox' and not their 'other' folder, where they are likely to be ignored.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2251522/Facebook-sell-access-inbox-dollar-time.html
Botched stem cell facelift leaves woman with bones growing in her EYES
A Californian woman has been left with bones growing in her eyes after a botched facelift using stem cell injections.
The gruesome tale involves a woman in her Sixties, who is said to have paid $20,000 for the procedure at a Beverly Hills clinic.
But three months later, she was still in pain and noticed her right eye was clicking, according to a report in Scientific American.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2251646/Botched-stem-cell-facelift-leaves-woman-bones-growing-EYES.html
The gruesome tale involves a woman in her Sixties, who is said to have paid $20,000 for the procedure at a Beverly Hills clinic.
But three months later, she was still in pain and noticed her right eye was clicking, according to a report in Scientific American.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2251646/Botched-stem-cell-facelift-leaves-woman-bones-growing-EYES.html
Walmart SELLS OUT of guns as Americans rush to stockpile weapons in aftermath of Sandy Hook massacre
Demand for firearms has exploded in the U.S., wiping store shelves clean of guns and ammo in nearly every town, city and state since the school shooting in Connecticut and ensuing calls for stricter gun laws.
Gun retailers as large as Walmart are nearly sold out of every type of firearm, including semiautomatic rifles like the one that 20-year-old Adam Lanza used to kill 20 children and six adults at Sandy Hook Elementary school on Friday.
A quick search for a handful of firearms that Walmart advertises turned up no results at store locations in a dozen states, including New York, California and Wisconsin.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2251461/Walmart-sells-guns-Americans-rush-stockpile-weapons-aftermath-Sandy-Hook.html
Gun retailers as large as Walmart are nearly sold out of every type of firearm, including semiautomatic rifles like the one that 20-year-old Adam Lanza used to kill 20 children and six adults at Sandy Hook Elementary school on Friday.
A quick search for a handful of firearms that Walmart advertises turned up no results at store locations in a dozen states, including New York, California and Wisconsin.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2251461/Walmart-sells-guns-Americans-rush-stockpile-weapons-aftermath-Sandy-Hook.html
Kenneth Bae: U.S tourist arrested in North Korea... but secretive country refuses to reveal his 'crime'
An American tourist has been arrested in North Korea but the secretive regime is refusing the reveal his 'crime'.
State-run Korean Central News Agency today identified the detainee as Pae Jun Ho in a brief dispatch.
His arrest comes at a time when Pyongyang is facing criticism from Washington for launching a long-range rocket last week.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2251729/US-tourist-arrested-North-Korea-secretive-country-refuses-reveal-crime.html
State-run Korean Central News Agency today identified the detainee as Pae Jun Ho in a brief dispatch.
His arrest comes at a time when Pyongyang is facing criticism from Washington for launching a long-range rocket last week.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2251729/US-tourist-arrested-North-Korea-secretive-country-refuses-reveal-crime.html
Government to snoop on computer use of jobless to check they really are looking for work
A new website launched by ministers will remotely monitor whether benefits claimants are making enough effort to find employment.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2251574/Government-snoop-use-jobless-check-looking-work.html
Floods force road closures and all trains to Heathrow are cancelled on busiest day of festive getaway
A signal failure outside Paddington Station has still not been fixed meaning there are no trains to Heathrow airport and almost every train to Wales and the south-west is delayed or cancelled.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2251224/Travel-chaos-floods-force-road-closures-trains-Heathrow-cancelled-busiest-day-festive-getaway.html
Lucie Slater Free after Receiving a suspended sentence for horrific glassing her boyfriend
Lucie Slater, from Ryton, Gateshead, was drinking wine at the home of her DJ boyfriend William Aitken when she came across a message on Facebook which upset her.
The 21-year-old almost instantaneously hit her boyfriend with a glass in the face and threw the laptop across the room. Mr Aitken had to rush to the shower to try and wash the blood off.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2251655/X-Factor-hopeful-booted-talent-glassing-boyfriend-face-avoids-jail.html
Two killed in supermarkets looting in Argentina
At least two people were killed in Argentina as looters broke into supermarkets in several cities, stirring memories of the country's devastating economic crisis 11 years ago.
The violence erupted on Thursday in the Patagonian ski resort of Bariloche when dozens of looters stormed a supermarket and made off with LCD televisions and other goods.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/12/21/us-argentina-violence-idUSBRE8BK0TZ20121221
The violence erupted on Thursday in the Patagonian ski resort of Bariloche when dozens of looters stormed a supermarket and made off with LCD televisions and other goods.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/12/21/us-argentina-violence-idUSBRE8BK0TZ20121221
Italy's Monti expected to resign
Mario Monti is expected to resign as Italian prime minister shortly, keeping a promise to step down after the passing of his budget by parliament.
MPs passed the 2013 budget drawn up by his government with 309 votes in favour and 55 against.
It is likely Mr Monti will announce his resignation at a cabinet meeting.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-20814796
MPs passed the 2013 budget drawn up by his government with 309 votes in favour and 55 against.
It is likely Mr Monti will announce his resignation at a cabinet meeting.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-20814796
Lincoln University student dies of TB
A university student who died in hospital last week had contracted tuberculosis, health officials have confirmed.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) said friends of Craig White, 21, were being offered screening for the infection after a postmortem examination identified disseminated TB as the provisional cause of his death.
White, a journalism undergraduate at the University of Lincoln, died on 12 December after being admitted to the Pilgrim hospital in Boston.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/dec/21/lincoln-university-student-dies-tb
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) said friends of Craig White, 21, were being offered screening for the infection after a postmortem examination identified disseminated TB as the provisional cause of his death.
White, a journalism undergraduate at the University of Lincoln, died on 12 December after being admitted to the Pilgrim hospital in Boston.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/dec/21/lincoln-university-student-dies-tb
Norovirus leads to Isle of Man hospital restrictions
The warning comes after patients suffering with diarrhoea and vomiting, the symptoms of the highly contagious bug, attended A&E this week.
Dr Parameswaran Kishore said: "Anyone needing medical help should contact their GP by phone and avoid hospital."
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-isle-of-man-20810020
Public fury over New Delhi gang-rape sparks protest across India
Sexual violence against women often goes unremarked and unreported in India, but on Friday hundreds of students and activists blockaded roads in New Delhi and marched to the president's palace, breaking through police barricades despite water-canon fire to demand the culprits' execution.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/12/21/us-india-protests-idUSBRE8BK0R620121221
Egypt's Islamists to Rally on Eve of Constitution Vote
Egyptian Islamists and opposition supporters clashed in Alexandria on the eve of the final round of voting on the country’s new constitution, which appears to be heading for approval.
Police sprayed tear gas as they sought to break up skirmishes between rival groups of Islamists and demonstrators supporting the “no” campaign outside the Al Qaed Ibrahim mosque in the coastal city, Al Jazeera reported. The channel aired images of black smoke rising above the skyline as night fell. After nearly two hours of street battles that the Health Ministry said injured 32 people, the area was mostly cleared, according to the online news agency Ahram Gate.
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-12-21/egypt-s-islamists-to-rally-on-eve-of-constitution-vote.html
Police sprayed tear gas as they sought to break up skirmishes between rival groups of Islamists and demonstrators supporting the “no” campaign outside the Al Qaed Ibrahim mosque in the coastal city, Al Jazeera reported. The channel aired images of black smoke rising above the skyline as night fell. After nearly two hours of street battles that the Health Ministry said injured 32 people, the area was mostly cleared, according to the online news agency Ahram Gate.
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-12-21/egypt-s-islamists-to-rally-on-eve-of-constitution-vote.html
Fighting Kills Dozens in Kenya
About 40 people, many of them children, were killed and scores of others were seriously injured on Friday in renewed attacks along the coastal Tana River delta, Kenyan police officials said.
According to the police, the fighting broke out when armed attackers from the Pokomo community raided a village belonging to the neighboring Orma ethnic group on Friday morning.
“So far, 39 people are dead, including 13 children and 6 women,” said Robert Kitur, the deputy police chief for the region.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/22/world/africa/tribal-fighting-kills-dozens-in-kenya.html?_r=0
According to the police, the fighting broke out when armed attackers from the Pokomo community raided a village belonging to the neighboring Orma ethnic group on Friday morning.
“So far, 39 people are dead, including 13 children and 6 women,” said Robert Kitur, the deputy police chief for the region.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/22/world/africa/tribal-fighting-kills-dozens-in-kenya.html?_r=0
'Gangnam Style' hits one billion views on YouTube
Psy's "Gangnam Style" became the first video to hit a billion views on YouTube on Friday, marking a fresh milestone in the global craze for the South Korean rapper and his horse-riding dance.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iukiAkbmOehMmglN-_ME7e9mJLlA?docId=CNG.12566e2712dbf8b2a80761357f391324.a01
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iukiAkbmOehMmglN-_ME7e9mJLlA?docId=CNG.12566e2712dbf8b2a80761357f391324.a01
School Shootings: Protests As NRA Speaks Out
NRA Executive Vice President Wayne LaPierre called on the US Congress to immediately pass legislation to place guards with guns in schools by the time classes resume from winter breaks in January.
http://news.sky.com/story/1028772/school-shootings-protests-as-nra-speaks-out
5.0 Magnitude Earthquake IZU ISLANDS, JAPAN REGION - 21st December 2012
5.0
Date-Time
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 14:43:37 UTC
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 11:43:37 PM at epicenter
Time of Earthquake in other Time Zones
Location
29.842°N, 142.216°E
Depth
20.3 km (12.6 miles)
Region
IZU ISLANDS, JAPAN REGION
Distances
305 km (189 miles) N of Chichi-shima, Japan
Syria rebels "fire warning shots" at civillian airliner at Aleppo airport
Syrian rebels fired warning shots at an airliner preparing to take off from Aleppo airport in the first direct attack on a civilian flight since the uprising in Syria began 21 months ago, a rebel commander said on Friday.
The commander, who gave his name only as Khaldoun, told Reuters by Skype that snipers from his brigade had hit the wheels of Syrian Airways flight RB201 on Thursday.
"Those were warning shots," he said, adding that the plane had been unable to take off. "We wanted to send a message to the regime that all their planes - military and civilian - are within our reach."
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/12/21/uk-syria-crisis-airliner-idUSLNE8BK02F20121221
Conclusion:
These are the caliber of people the US and Israeli governments are supporting. Is this the side you want to be on, one that attacks civilians and salivates at possessing and using chemical weapons?
Russian warship docks in Iran
A Russian destroyer docked at the Bandar Abbas Port in southern Iran, Press TV reported Wednesday.
“Marshal Shaposhnikov, a Russian Udaloy-class destroyer, has docked at this port with the aim of strengthening military ties between Iran and Russia,” Vice-Admiral Hossein Azad said.
The report did not specify the exact purpose of the visit, or the length of time the ship was expected to remain in port.
http://www.timesofisrael.com/russian-warship-docks-in-iran/
Scuds blast big Syrian rebel push for al-Safira chemical arms store
The Syrian Air Force is again firing Scud missiles, this time to stem the general offensive Syrian opposition forces, including jihadis, launched Friday, Dec. 21, to capture the Syrian army’s military-industrial complex at al Safira and the big chemical and biological weapons store adjoining the facility. It is there, that Scud D missiles stand ready for launching, loaded with chemical weapons.
Rebel forces are converging on Al Safira from the east, the west and the south. Among them are brigades of the Jabhat al-Nusra which the US has designated part of al Qaeda in Iraq.
debkafile military sources report extremely heavy fighting. The rebels have reached points 1-2 kilometers from the perimeter walls of the Al Safira chemical weapons stores and are being pounded by Syrian warplanes and assault helicopters as well as Scuds, in a desperate effort to halt their advance.
http://www.debka.com/article/22627/Scuds-blast-big-Syrian-rebel-push-for-al-Safira-chemical-arms-store
Apocalypse? Not Now, As World Survives
As the clock counted down to - and then passed - 11.11am, people around the world used the moment as an excuse for a party.
December 21 marks the end of the 5,125-year Mayan calendar, which some said represents the end of the world.
http://news.sky.com/story/1028581/apocalypse-not-now-as-world-survives
Fiscal cliff setback rattles global shares, euro
Global stock markets weakened on Friday and both the euro and gold slipped, as a new setback in talks to avert a U.S. fiscal crisis and evidence of Europe's ongoing economic difficulties stoked investor nerves.
A proposal from Republican leader John Boehner to avoid the so-called fiscal cliff failed to get support from his party on Thursday, casting fresh uncertainty over talks to avoid across-the-board tax hikes and spending cuts that could push the U.S. economy into recession in 2013.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/12/21/us-markets-global-idUSBRE88901C20121221
A proposal from Republican leader John Boehner to avoid the so-called fiscal cliff failed to get support from his party on Thursday, casting fresh uncertainty over talks to avoid across-the-board tax hikes and spending cuts that could push the U.S. economy into recession in 2013.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/12/21/us-markets-global-idUSBRE88901C20121221
Israel settlements: UN steps up pressure
The UN is stepping up pressure on Israel over its settlement building on occupied Palestinian land in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
The secretary general and all Security Council members except the US demanded an immediate halt to new construction.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his government would press ahead with settlement expansion.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-20793138
The secretary general and all Security Council members except the US demanded an immediate halt to new construction.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his government would press ahead with settlement expansion.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-20793138
UN confirms Hezbollah fighting for Assad in Syria
The Lebanese Shia group Hezbollah has confirmed that its members are in Syria fighting on behalf of the government, United Nations human rights investigators said on Thursday.
There are also reports that Iraqi Shias are coming to fight in Syria, and Iran confirmed in September that its Revolutionary Guards are in Syria providing assistance, the independent investigators led by Brazilian expert Paulo Pinheiro said in their latest 10-page report.
http://www.jpost.com/MiddleEast/Article.aspx?id=296690
There are also reports that Iraqi Shias are coming to fight in Syria, and Iran confirmed in September that its Revolutionary Guards are in Syria providing assistance, the independent investigators led by Brazilian expert Paulo Pinheiro said in their latest 10-page report.
http://www.jpost.com/MiddleEast/Article.aspx?id=296690
UN approves military force to combat Islamist terrorists in Mali
The UN Security Council has given the green light for the use of military force to combat Islamist terrorists in northern Mali. The Council said that the 3,300 troops will use "all necessary measures" to pacify the northern territories.
All the permanent members of the UN body unanimously voted for a year-long mandate during which the African-led peace force will attempt to oust Islamist militants entrenched in the country’s north.
Al-Qaeda-affiliated militants and Tuareg rebels, along with other separatists, seized control of Mali’s northern territories during a military coup in March that left a power vacuum in the country. They have since enforced hardline Muslim law in the areas under their control.
http://rt.com/news/mali-un-intervention-council-534/
All the permanent members of the UN body unanimously voted for a year-long mandate during which the African-led peace force will attempt to oust Islamist militants entrenched in the country’s north.
Al-Qaeda-affiliated militants and Tuareg rebels, along with other separatists, seized control of Mali’s northern territories during a military coup in March that left a power vacuum in the country. They have since enforced hardline Muslim law in the areas under their control.
http://rt.com/news/mali-un-intervention-council-534/
Rivals campaign on eve of Egypt referendum
Last-minute campaigning was taking place in Egypt on Friday ahead of the final round of a referendum on a new, Islamist-backed constitution that has plunged the country into crisis.
The draft charter is expected to be adopted in Saturday's plebiscite, following a first-round last weekend that showed 57 percent support, according to unofficial tallies.
But analysts warned the vote would not put a halt to the month-long crisis pitting President Mohamed Morsi and his Islamist camp against the broad, secular-leaning opposition.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5id36MgeMsQJ2AmtItO5NtUBJeUTg?docId=CNG.12566e2712dbf8b2a80761357f391324.b1
The draft charter is expected to be adopted in Saturday's plebiscite, following a first-round last weekend that showed 57 percent support, according to unofficial tallies.
But analysts warned the vote would not put a halt to the month-long crisis pitting President Mohamed Morsi and his Islamist camp against the broad, secular-leaning opposition.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5id36MgeMsQJ2AmtItO5NtUBJeUTg?docId=CNG.12566e2712dbf8b2a80761357f391324.b1
Bird Flu Attack Thousands of Chickens in Jambi, Indonesia
In recent weeks, thousands of chickens in four villages in Muarojambi district, Jambi Province, had suddenly died, suspected of bird flu. Two other districts, Sekernan and Sengeti, were also attacked, but the deaths were in the several of hundreds only.
Muarojambi Head of Livestock Office, Parahuman Lubis, reported on Dec. 20 that losses were estimated at hundreds of millions of rupiahs.
http://www.tempointeractive.com/hg/nasional/2012/12/21/brk,20121221-449609,uk.html
Muarojambi Head of Livestock Office, Parahuman Lubis, reported on Dec. 20 that losses were estimated at hundreds of millions of rupiahs.
http://www.tempointeractive.com/hg/nasional/2012/12/21/brk,20121221-449609,uk.html
Tornado hits Alabama; 22800 still without power
A tornado peeled the roofs from buildings, toppled trucks, and blew down oak trees and limbs in the Mobile area early Thursday, leading to road closures but no reports of major injuries, authorities said.
National Weather Service officials assessed the damage Thursday afternoon and said the EF-1 tornado had estimated wind speeds of between 86 and 109 miles per hour. An EF2 or higher is considered a significant tornado.
The American Red Cross office in Mobile suffered heavy damage and three of its disaster trailers there were destroyed, the organization said. The trailers contained cots, blankets and other items needed in emergencies.
http://www.moultonadvertiser.com/news/state/article_5b7fb2dd-225b-5624-b18d-27e4544fb13a.html
National Weather Service officials assessed the damage Thursday afternoon and said the EF-1 tornado had estimated wind speeds of between 86 and 109 miles per hour. An EF2 or higher is considered a significant tornado.
The American Red Cross office in Mobile suffered heavy damage and three of its disaster trailers there were destroyed, the organization said. The trailers contained cots, blankets and other items needed in emergencies.
http://www.moultonadvertiser.com/news/state/article_5b7fb2dd-225b-5624-b18d-27e4544fb13a.html
Bird flu confirmed in Dhading. Nepal
The Central Veterinary Lab, Tripureshwar has confirmed that chicken at a poultry farm in Dharke, Naubise in Dhading district died due to bird flu.
Samples were taken for test from local Laxmi Pokhrel´s poultry farm after the chicken started dying all of a sudden at the poultry farm since December 13.
A meeting of the District Livestock Office, Dhading, chaired by Chief District Officer and Chairman of Bird Flu Technical Committee, Dhading district, Bed Prasad Kharel, held today, declared the area around the farm as bird flu infected area and decided to cull the fowls here to prevent the disease from spreading to other areas.
http://www.myrepublica.com/portal/index.php?action=news_details&news_id=46837
Samples were taken for test from local Laxmi Pokhrel´s poultry farm after the chicken started dying all of a sudden at the poultry farm since December 13.
A meeting of the District Livestock Office, Dhading, chaired by Chief District Officer and Chairman of Bird Flu Technical Committee, Dhading district, Bed Prasad Kharel, held today, declared the area around the farm as bird flu infected area and decided to cull the fowls here to prevent the disease from spreading to other areas.
http://www.myrepublica.com/portal/index.php?action=news_details&news_id=46837
Botulism cases confirmed near Longreach, Australia
Livestock producers are urged to check their cattle for signs of botulism following confirmed cases near Longreach, Winton and Aramac.
Biosecurity Queensland Animal Biosecurity and Welfare Inspector Nicole Restelli said climatic conditions were contributing to the recent cases.
"Recent confirmed cases of botulism have been found in areas where it doesn´t usually occur. All producers should monitor their herds for symptoms and take appropriate preventative measures.
http://www.beefcentral.com/p/news/article/2584
Biosecurity Queensland Animal Biosecurity and Welfare Inspector Nicole Restelli said climatic conditions were contributing to the recent cases.
"Recent confirmed cases of botulism have been found in areas where it doesn´t usually occur. All producers should monitor their herds for symptoms and take appropriate preventative measures.
http://www.beefcentral.com/p/news/article/2584
Risk of volcanic eruption in Turkey
There is a risk of volcanic eruption in Turkish province of Mugla close to Marmaris, CNN Turk TV channel said on Thursday.
This was stated by scientists of Maltepe University. Some 12 scientists, carrying out research in the coastal Mediterranean area for several months found that there is a risk of an underwater volcano eruption as a result of numerous earthquakes in the area.
A crater was also found at a depth of 25 metres under water.
http://en.trend.az/news/incident/2101164.html
This was stated by scientists of Maltepe University. Some 12 scientists, carrying out research in the coastal Mediterranean area for several months found that there is a risk of an underwater volcano eruption as a result of numerous earthquakes in the area.
A crater was also found at a depth of 25 metres under water.
http://en.trend.az/news/incident/2101164.html
NATO detects Scud missile launches in Syria
NATO chief Anders Fogh Rasmussen has condemned Syria's firing of short-range missiles.
A NATO source said allied surveillance had detected new launches of Scud-type missiles in Syria this week.
The source said there had been multiple launches of the missiles inside Syria yesterday morning.
http://www.rte.ie/news/2012/1221/syria-conflict-assad.html
A NATO source said allied surveillance had detected new launches of Scud-type missiles in Syria this week.
The source said there had been multiple launches of the missiles inside Syria yesterday morning.
http://www.rte.ie/news/2012/1221/syria-conflict-assad.html
Mexico's Maya heartland awaits dawn of new era
In the darkness before dawn Friday, spiritualists prepared white clothes, drums, conch shells and incense ahead of the sunrise they believe will herald the birth of a new and better age as a vast, 5,125-year cycle in the Mayan calendar comes to an end.
No one was quite sure at what time the Mayas' 13th Baktun would officially end on this Dec. 21. Some think it already ended at midnight Thursday. Others looked to Friday's dawn here in the Maya heartland. Some had later times in mind.
"Wait until the dawn on the 22nd; that is when we Maya will speak," Nobel Peace Prize laureate Rigoberta Menchu said earlier in Guatemala, another Maya area.
http://www.philstar.com/world/2012/12/21/888612/mexicos-maya-heartland-awaits-dawn-new-era
No one was quite sure at what time the Mayas' 13th Baktun would officially end on this Dec. 21. Some think it already ended at midnight Thursday. Others looked to Friday's dawn here in the Maya heartland. Some had later times in mind.
"Wait until the dawn on the 22nd; that is when we Maya will speak," Nobel Peace Prize laureate Rigoberta Menchu said earlier in Guatemala, another Maya area.
http://www.philstar.com/world/2012/12/21/888612/mexicos-maya-heartland-awaits-dawn-new-era
Mayan apocalypse: End of the 13th Baktun as it happens
9 Min to go, after a week of grey and rain outside, it is blistering sun shine, without a cloud in the sky :)
WikiLeaks To Release 1million New Files
Mr Assange gave a rare public address from the balcony of the Ecuadorian Embassy in London, where he took refuge in June.
"In 2013, we will continue to stand up to bullies," he said to the cheers of supporters gathered in front of the building.
http://news.sky.com/story/1028364/assange-fresh-wikileaks-files-to-be-released
Banks Face Break-Up Over Risky Trading
UK banks face break-up if they fail to follow new rules protecting high street operations from riskier trading.
The Parliamentary Commission on Banking Standards has published a report assessing Government-backed legislation that will require lenders to protect customers' banking deposits from potential losses.
http://news.sky.com/story/1028432/banks-face-break-up-over-risky-trading
The Parliamentary Commission on Banking Standards has published a report assessing Government-backed legislation that will require lenders to protect customers' banking deposits from potential losses.
http://news.sky.com/story/1028432/banks-face-break-up-over-risky-trading
Eddie Kidd's estranged wife Charged With Assaulting him
Samantha Kidd is due to appear in court next month accused of assaulting the 53-year-old six times in four months.
The 44-year-old, of High Street, Seaford, allegedly beat her husband between July and October this year.
http://news.sky.com/story/1028549/stunt-rider-eddie-kidd-wifes-assault-charge
UK Economic Growth Less Than Expected
Britain's growth figure for the third quarter has been revised to 0.9%, by the Office for National Statistics.
That is down from their previous estimate of 1%.
Britain's dominant services sector posted meagre growth in October, adding to the challenge for the economy as a whole to expand in the last three months of 2012.
http://news.sky.com/story/1028569/uk-economic-growth-less-than-expected
That is down from their previous estimate of 1%.
Britain's dominant services sector posted meagre growth in October, adding to the challenge for the economy as a whole to expand in the last three months of 2012.
http://news.sky.com/story/1028569/uk-economic-growth-less-than-expected
Tsunami Fears Over Sea Floor Collapse Near Oz
Marine geologists from Australia's James Cook University have been using advanced 3D mapping techniques on the deepest parts of the reef since 2007 and have discovered dozens of sub-marine canyons.
On a recent trip, they found a one cubic kilometre slab of sea floor - the remains of an ancient underwater landslide - which is perched on the continental shelf.
Geologist Robin Beaman said: "Under-sea landslides are a well understood geological process, but we didn't know there were any on the Barrier Reef.
"It is sitting on top of a sub-marine canyon, cutting into the slopes and it is in the preliminary stage of collapse."
He added that it was unclear when the collapse would occur.
http://news.sky.com/story/1028452/tsunami-fears-over-sea-floor-collapse-near-oz
UK Weather: Flooding Ahead Of Xmas Getaway
Britain has been warned it faces further flooding in some areas as more rain is set to sweep in over the next few days.
So far, southern and south western England have been the worst affected, with deluges in Devon, Cornwall and Hampshire leading to more than an inch of rain in some places.
http://news.sky.com/story/1028470/weather-flooding-ahead-of-xmas-getaway
So far, southern and south western England have been the worst affected, with deluges in Devon, Cornwall and Hampshire leading to more than an inch of rain in some places.
http://news.sky.com/story/1028470/weather-flooding-ahead-of-xmas-getaway
4.5 Magnitude Earthquake FIJI REGION - 21st December 2012
4.5
Date-Time
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 09:26:52 UTC
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 09:26:52 PM at epicenter
Time of Earthquake in other Time Zones
Location
20.151°S, 176.322°W
Depth
234.7 km (145.8 miles)
Region
FIJI REGION
Distances
159 km (98 miles) NW of Nuku`alofa, Tonga
5.0 Magnitude Earthquake NEAR THE EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAPAN - 21st December 2012
5.0
Date-Time
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 08:07:18 UTC
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 05:07:18 PM at epicenter
Time of Earthquake in other Time Zones
Location
38.602°N, 141.912°E
Depth
35.3 km (21.9 miles)
Region
NEAR THE EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAPAN
Distances
54 km (33 miles) SSE of Ofunato, Japan
4.5 Magnitude Earthquake NIAS REGION, INDONESIA - 21st December 2012
4.5
Date-Time
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 07:30:44 UTC
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 02:30:44 PM at epicenter
Time of Earthquake in other Time Zones
Location
0.989°N, 98.778°E
Depth
62.8 km (39.0 miles)
Region
NIAS REGION, INDONESIA
Distances
68 km (42 miles) SW of Padangsidempuan, Indonesia
4.3 Magnitude Earthquake OFFSHORE GUATEMALA - 21st December 2012
4.3
Date-Time
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 07:05:10 UTC
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 01:05:10 AM at epicenter
Time of Earthquake in other Time Zones
Location
13.476°N, 91.786°W
Depth
35.5 km (22.1 miles)
Region
OFFSHORE GUATEMALA
Distances
91 km (56 miles) S of Champerico, Guatemala
4.6 Magnitude Earthquake TONGA - 21st December 2012
4.6
Date-Time
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 06:23:09 UTC
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 08:23:09 PM at epicenter
Time of Earthquake in other Time Zones
Location
15.365°S, 173.012°W
Depth
40.3 km (25.0 miles)
Region
TONGA
Distances
102 km (63 miles) NE of Hihifo, Tonga
Bugarach Sealed Off As 'Doomsday Nears'
The jagged mountain which dwarfs Bugarach is said to contain aliens, who plan to board a spacecraft and flee the Earth before the end of the world.
There are those, admittedly in a minority, who believe the ETs may take some humans for the ride, allowing them to perpetuate humanity.
http://news.sky.com/story/1028417/end-of-world-french-village-ready-for-doomsday
4.8 Magnitude Earthquake KAMCHATKA PENINSULA, RUSSIA - 21st December 2012
4.8
Date-Time
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 04:49:06 UTC
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 04:49:06 PM at epicenter
Time of Earthquake in other Time Zones
Location
52.229°N, 157.781°E
Depth
132.3 km (82.2 miles)
Region
KAMCHATKA PENINSULA, RUSSIA
Distances
85 km (52 miles) SSW of Paratunka, Russia
4.9 Magnitude Earthquake TONGA - 21st December 2012
4.9
Date-Time
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 01:45:18 UTC
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 03:45:18 PM at epicenter
Time of Earthquake in other Time Zones
Location
20.735°S, 174.105°W
Depth
30.7 km (19.1 miles)
Region
TONGA
Distances
106 km (65 miles) SSE of Pangai, Tonga
5.6 Magnitude Earthquake MOLUCCA SEA - 20th December 2012
5.6
Date-Time
Thursday, December 20, 2012 at 21:47:30 UTC
Friday, December 21, 2012 at 06:47:30 AM at epicenter
Time of Earthquake in other Time Zones
Location
0.546°N, 126.233°E
Depth
31.2 km (19.4 miles)
Region
MOLUCCA SEA
Distances
129 km (80 miles) WSW of Kota Ternate, Indonesia
