By Stephen Collinson
Agence France-Presse
First Posted 03:04:00 04/01/2009
Filed Under: Military, World Financial Crisis, Diplomacy, Foreign affairs & international relations, US politics, Obama Articles
LONDON—(UPDATE) US President Barack Obama arrived in London Tuesday ahead of the G20 economic summit, on his eagerly awaited first foray onto the global stage since he moved into the White House in January.
Obama arrived at the heavily secured Stansted airport outside London aboard Air Force One, then rode in his helicopter, codenamed Marine One, to the US ambassador's residence in central London.
The new US president will immediately face stiff tests in his first big foray into high-stakes global diplomacy, with his first meetings with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and China's President Hu Jintao on Wednesday.
The president will also meet Wednesday with British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, the host of the G20 economic crisis summit of developed and developing nations, and the two leaders will hold a joint press conference.
Seldom has a US president faced such a stern first test overseas as the one awaiting Obama at Thursday's Group of 20 summit, with the once mighty US economy and the global finance system locked in the worst crisis for decades.
He is set to take a central role in global efforts to mitigate the crisis but the talks have been dogged by persistent reports of rifts between Europe and the United States on the best way to tame the world recession.
On Friday, Obama will head to France and Germany for NATO's symbolic 60th anniversary summit, which marks his first test abroad as US commander in chief and his best chance to sell his new plan for the Afghan war to wary allies.
The Europe trip also marks the much anticipated debut on the global stage of Obama's wife, First Lady Michelle Obama, who also has a packed agenda of meetings and planned appearances.
Their visit is seen by Europe analysts as the most anticipated by a US president and first lady since that of John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy.
The president will formally launch his personal bid to "reset" US-Russia relations, badly strained during the former Bush administration, in his meeting with Medvedev.
The talks with China's Hu will take place against a backdrop of economic tensions between the two powers, and following a standoff between a US navy ship and Chinese vessels.
"This will be the first meeting between the president and each of those leaders. Our sense is there will be a very broad agenda, touching any number of issues, economic, political, strategic," said Mike Froman, a deputy US national security adviser for international economic affairs.
US officials also said the Obama-Hu meeting would touch on North Korea's apparently imminent missile test, and the consequences for the six-party process designed to eliminate Pyongyang's weapons programs.
Later Wednesday, Obama will meet with Britain's Queen Elizabeth and join fellow Group of 20 leaders on the eve of their summit to seek agreement on how to kick-start global demand and reframe regulation of the finance industry to forestall future crises.
Amid new suggestions of division about whether more economic stimulus or more far reaching regulation was the best way to stimulate demand, the White House again argued that a broad consensus could be reached.
"Despite the back and forth in the press, nobody at any point has any expectations that countries would come to this meeting ... and say 'I am going to do another point of stimulus,'" Froman said.
"That is not what these summits are about, this is not a pledging conference. Right now there is vigorous debate in Europe as to whether more stimulus is necessary or prudent.
"Countries have done stimulus, those stimulus plans are being implemented, and from our point of view, all that is necessary down the road, if growth is not restored, how will countries react?"
Obama, who is more popular than most of the European leaders he will meet, left for London bolstered by a new poll showing most American voters are happy to see him fly the flag overseas.
Eight in 10 people polled by CNN/Opinion Research Corporation believed that Obama would do a good job representing them to the world.
After the G20 summit on Thursday, and talks with leaders including Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Saudi King Abdullah, Obama heads to France and Germany for the NATO summit.
He will stop in the Czech Republic on Sunday for US-EU meetings in Prague, then wrap up his trip in Turkey, with a first chance to engage the Muslim world.
hot info
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Maradona Sedih Dianggap Pengkhianat Oleh Fans Boca Juniors
Buenos Aires, (ANTARA/Reuters) - Pelatih tim nasional Argentina Diego Maradona mengaku sedih karena dinilai sebagai pengkhianat oleh pendukung klub favoritnya, Boca Juniors.
"Itu melukai batin saya karena mereka mencap saya sebagai pengkhianat, tapi saya tidak dapat melakukan apa pun soal ini," katanya kepada Radio Mitre, Rabu waktu setempat (Kamis pagi WIB).
Kritik dari fans itu dilontarkan menyusul keputusan playmaker Boca Junior Juan Roman Riquelme pekan lalu untuk mundur dari tim nasional Argentina,
Riquleme mengatakan bahwa ia kecewa atas komentar terbuka Maradona mengenai gaya permainannya.
Sebelum pertandingan hari Minggu melawan Argentinos Juniors di stadion Bombonera, para suporter tuan rumah Boca memberi penghormataan kepada Riquelme dan memperlihatan spanduk yang menyebut Maradona, yang sudah dianggap sebagai pahlawan di klub itu, sebagai pengkhianat.
"Saya tidak menyalahkan para suporter, mereka berhak mendukung siapa pun," kata Maradona.
"Saya sudah menjelaskan bahwa ia ingin Riquelme dalam tim saya, tapi mereka melihat hal itu dengan cara mereka," katanya.
Maradona, yang masih memiliki boks sendiri di Stadion Bombonera, menambahkan bahwa ia tetap akan menjalankan tugasnya tanpa perlu ada rasa tidak enak dengan para suporternya.
Monday, March 23, 2009
CARA MUDAH MENGATASI PROBLEM HIDUP
Ya, semua manusia yang ada di dunia ini, selama ia masih bernafas selalu mempunyai Problem Hidup, baik problem dari luar dirinya (ekternal Problem) atau dari dalam (Internal Problem).
Seringkali kita temui, hubungan yang tidak harmonis sesama saudara, teman, kekasih, bahkan dalam sebuah keluarga menjadi tidak harmonis ketika berbenturan kepentingan antar sesamanya, jangan pikir kita saja yang mempunyai masalah, orang lain juga, jadi ebook saya membahas secara teknis bagaimana Anda bisa mengatasi dan meng upgrade kebiasaan Anda dan karakter Anda menjadi orang yang lebih baik lagi.
Problem kehidupan memang beragam jenisnya, setiap orang masalahnya berbeda pada masing masing individu, baik orang asia, orang barat, maupun orang Indonesia, baik dia sudah tua ataupun masih anak muda, bahkan perbedaan gender juga memiliki masalahnya sendiri.
Dalam ebook yang saya tulis, membahas mengenai setiap Problema Hidup, namun di fokuskan pada Internal Problem, filenya ebooknya bisa Anda download gratis, kenapa saya lebih berfokus pada Internal Problem, karena faktor ini masih dapat kita kendalikan dengan mudah di bandingkan eksternal Problem
Setelah Anda membaca ebook saya ini, Anda akan bisa lebih menyesuaikan diri kepada siapapun juga yang Anda temui, baik boos Anda, bawahan Anda, Kekasih Anda ataupun Pasangan Hidup Anda.
Ebook saya ini di buat untuk lebih mudah di pahami dan bisa dipraktekkan dalam kehidupan sehari.
Jadi UBAHLAH HIDUP ANDA MENJADI LEBIH BAIK LAGI !!!
Terima kasih
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Pohon Pisang Bertandan Lima Hebohkan Warga Sumenep
Warga Dusun Barambang, Desa Kalimook, Kecamatan Kalianget, Sumenep, Madura heboh dengan pohon pisang bertandan lima. Pohon pisang yang tumbuh subur di atas lahan milik Ny Aminah (60), selain menjadi tontonan, juga dikeramatkan oleh warga.
Jenis gedang lomot (pisang hijau) ini, tandan pertama mulai muncul 1 bulan lalu. Kemudian menyusul tandan lainnya hingga berjumlah 5. Pisang yang tergolong aneh ini baru pertama kali ada di daerah tersebut. Tak ayal setiap hari ramai dikunjungi warga.
Sebelum pisang hijau ini memiliki 5 tandan, sebulan lalu pemiliknya, Aminah bermimpi ada bintang jatuh tepat di areal yang ditumbuhi pisang tersebut. Semula dianggapnya hanya mimpi penghias tidur. Namun mimpi serupa kembali dialami pada malam berikutnya.
Mimpi Aminah baru terjawab setelah mendapatkan pisang bertandan lima di tempat bintang jatuh itu. Dia heran dan terkejut serta ingat dengan kebesaran Allah yang ditunjukkan pada manusia. Pohon pisang itu akhirnya dijaga dengan baik.
Warga sekitar pun mengkeramatkan pisang itu. Meski belum terkuak khasiatnya, namun masyarakat mempunyai keyakinan jika buah pisang tersebut dapat dijadikan obat mujarab. Rencananya, pohon pisang bertandan lima akan dikonsultasikan pada orang pintar.
Pemilik pisang bertandan lima, Ny Aminah (60) mengatakan, selama memelihara pisang baru kali ini menemukan pisang bertandan lima.
"Dua tahun lalu hanya ada yang bertandan 2 tapi perkembangannya tidak subur lalu mati. Tapi yang pisang ini pertumbuhannya bagus," ujar Aminah saat ditemui detiksurabaya.com di lokasi, Kamis (19/3/2009).
Friday, March 20, 2009
Apple to Preview New iPhone Software
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MARCH 12, 2009, 11:21 P.M. ET
Apple to Give Glimpse of New iPhone Software
Article
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more in Personal Technology »
By YUKARI IWATANI KANE
Apple Inc. plans to preview a new version of its software for the iPhone next week, amid widespread speculation that the company is also preparing to launch a new model of the cellphone later this year.
The Cupertino, Calif., company said in an email invitation Thursday that it would provide a "sneak peek" of a new operating system for the iPhone at a media event on March 17. It also said it would show a new software kit that developers can use to make programs to distribute through the company's App Store.
Apple's event, its first since an appearance at the Macworld trade show in January, comes as speculation had been mounting about what new products the company was planning for this year. Analysts believe the software Apple will be showing is for a new iPhone that could be launched this summer.
"All of this could be the prelude before a new iPhone," said Charlie Wolf, an analyst at Needham & Co. An Apple spokeswoman declined to comment on the speculation.
The iPhone is considered one of Apple's key drivers of growth. The business has taken off rapidly since Apple introduced a model last July with higher-speed Internet access and the introduction of the App Store, which gives users access to thousands of games, entertainment software and other applications.
Apple has sold more than 17 million iPhones, and users have downloaded more than 500 million applications in the last eight months. Revenue from the iPhone business increased by more than five times to $1.2 billion in the quarter ended Dec. 27 from $241 million a year earlier.
Still, analysts have been concerned about how Apple could be affected by slowing sales of smart phones overall in the worsening economic environment. The market researcher IDC Thursday lowered its forecast for global smart-phone sales in 2009, predicting 3.4% growth down from 8.7%.
As popular as the iPhone has been, users have pointed to obvious improvements that Apple could make to the iPhone software such as including the ability to cut and paste and conduct videoconferences, and an advanced search technology to more easily find information stored on the device.
Software developers in the meantime are hoping Apple will start allowing applications, like instant messaging, that are always running in the background even when the phone is in sleep mode or being used for something else.
—John Kell contributed to this article.
Write to Yukari Iwatani Kane at yukari.iwatani@wsj.com
See a sample reprint in PDF format.Order a reprint of this article now
MARCH 12, 2009, 11:21 P.M. ET
Apple to Give Glimpse of New iPhone Software
Article
Comments
more in Personal Technology »
By YUKARI IWATANI KANE
Apple Inc. plans to preview a new version of its software for the iPhone next week, amid widespread speculation that the company is also preparing to launch a new model of the cellphone later this year.
The Cupertino, Calif., company said in an email invitation Thursday that it would provide a "sneak peek" of a new operating system for the iPhone at a media event on March 17. It also said it would show a new software kit that developers can use to make programs to distribute through the company's App Store.
Apple's event, its first since an appearance at the Macworld trade show in January, comes as speculation had been mounting about what new products the company was planning for this year. Analysts believe the software Apple will be showing is for a new iPhone that could be launched this summer.
"All of this could be the prelude before a new iPhone," said Charlie Wolf, an analyst at Needham & Co. An Apple spokeswoman declined to comment on the speculation.
The iPhone is considered one of Apple's key drivers of growth. The business has taken off rapidly since Apple introduced a model last July with higher-speed Internet access and the introduction of the App Store, which gives users access to thousands of games, entertainment software and other applications.
Apple has sold more than 17 million iPhones, and users have downloaded more than 500 million applications in the last eight months. Revenue from the iPhone business increased by more than five times to $1.2 billion in the quarter ended Dec. 27 from $241 million a year earlier.
Still, analysts have been concerned about how Apple could be affected by slowing sales of smart phones overall in the worsening economic environment. The market researcher IDC Thursday lowered its forecast for global smart-phone sales in 2009, predicting 3.4% growth down from 8.7%.
As popular as the iPhone has been, users have pointed to obvious improvements that Apple could make to the iPhone software such as including the ability to cut and paste and conduct videoconferences, and an advanced search technology to more easily find information stored on the device.
Software developers in the meantime are hoping Apple will start allowing applications, like instant messaging, that are always running in the background even when the phone is in sleep mode or being used for something else.
—John Kell contributed to this article.
Write to Yukari Iwatani Kane at yukari.iwatani@wsj.com
Awas! Ribuan Perempuan Histeris di Sudirman
Aaaaaa! Terdengar teriakan histeris ribuan perempuan dari dalam gedung WTC Sudirman. Saling dorong dan sikut terjadi. Ada apa?
Sejak jam 09.00 pagi perempuan-perempuan ini telah memadati atrium gedung World Trade Center (WTC) di Jl. Jend Sudirman. Mereka terdiri dari pekerja kantoran, mahasiswi, bahkan ibu rumah tangga.
Tujuan mereka hanya satu. Mencari sepatu! Yup, sejak Senin (17/03/2009) sebuah merk sepatu asal Singapura menggelar pesta diskon rangkaian produknya mulai dari sepatu, tas, kacamata, sampai ikat pinggang.
Saking ramainya, panitia harus memberlakukan sistem buka-tutup. Setiap satu jam sekali pintu akan dibuka. Ketika itu terjadi, ratusan perempuan yang telah mengantre langsung berhamburan dan saling dorong untuk segera menemukan sepatu impian dengan harga miring.
"Tolong jangan dorong-dorong bu, kasihan yang di depan," ujar petugas keamanan yang teriakannya tidak diacuhkan pengunjung.
Suasana meja-meja display bak acara diskon dalam film 'Confession of a Shopaholic' yang diputar di bioskop baru-baru ini. Perempuan hamil, bawa anak, atau pekerja yang 'kabur' sementara dari kantor untuk mencicipi diskon sepatu tak peduli dengan sekitar dan saling dorong untuk menemukan sepatu impian.
Petugas konter pun dibuat pusing dengan teriakan para perempuan yang seperti 'kalap' melihat diskon. Sepatu merk Charles and Keith yang dijual miring mulai harga Rp. 40.000 (biasa lebih dari Rp. 200 ribu) tersebut habis diserbu.
"Mas tolong dong nomor 37," ujar seorang peremouan pada petugas pria. "Maaf bu saya nggak bisa," ucap petugas pria yang bukan bertugas mencari sepatu. "Kalau nggak bisa jangan lewat-lewat sini dong," ketus perempuan kantoran tersebut geram. "Huuuu..," perempuan lain yang ada di sekitar situ ikut bersorak.
Diskon sepatu ini masih berlangsung sampai Jumat (20/3/2009). Untuk yang penasaran disarankan datang pagi jangan membawa anak kecil dan siap fisik dan mental! Awas, jangan main-main dengan wanita 'lapar' diskon!
Sejak jam 09.00 pagi perempuan-perempuan ini telah memadati atrium gedung World Trade Center (WTC) di Jl. Jend Sudirman. Mereka terdiri dari pekerja kantoran, mahasiswi, bahkan ibu rumah tangga.
Tujuan mereka hanya satu. Mencari sepatu! Yup, sejak Senin (17/03/2009) sebuah merk sepatu asal Singapura menggelar pesta diskon rangkaian produknya mulai dari sepatu, tas, kacamata, sampai ikat pinggang.
Saking ramainya, panitia harus memberlakukan sistem buka-tutup. Setiap satu jam sekali pintu akan dibuka. Ketika itu terjadi, ratusan perempuan yang telah mengantre langsung berhamburan dan saling dorong untuk segera menemukan sepatu impian dengan harga miring.
"Tolong jangan dorong-dorong bu, kasihan yang di depan," ujar petugas keamanan yang teriakannya tidak diacuhkan pengunjung.
Suasana meja-meja display bak acara diskon dalam film 'Confession of a Shopaholic' yang diputar di bioskop baru-baru ini. Perempuan hamil, bawa anak, atau pekerja yang 'kabur' sementara dari kantor untuk mencicipi diskon sepatu tak peduli dengan sekitar dan saling dorong untuk menemukan sepatu impian.
Petugas konter pun dibuat pusing dengan teriakan para perempuan yang seperti 'kalap' melihat diskon. Sepatu merk Charles and Keith yang dijual miring mulai harga Rp. 40.000 (biasa lebih dari Rp. 200 ribu) tersebut habis diserbu.
"Mas tolong dong nomor 37," ujar seorang peremouan pada petugas pria. "Maaf bu saya nggak bisa," ucap petugas pria yang bukan bertugas mencari sepatu. "Kalau nggak bisa jangan lewat-lewat sini dong," ketus perempuan kantoran tersebut geram. "Huuuu..," perempuan lain yang ada di sekitar situ ikut bersorak.
Diskon sepatu ini masih berlangsung sampai Jumat (20/3/2009). Untuk yang penasaran disarankan datang pagi jangan membawa anak kecil dan siap fisik dan mental! Awas, jangan main-main dengan wanita 'lapar' diskon!
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Indian lunar orbiter hit by heat rise
NEW DELHI, India (CNN) -- Scientists have switched off several on-board instruments to halt rising temperatures inside India's first unmanned lunar spacecraft.
The spacecraft carrying India's first lunar probe, Chandrayaan-1, lifts off from Sriharikota.
Mylswamy Annadurai, the project director for the lunar mission, told CNN that temperatures onboard Chandrayaan-1 had risen to 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit).
The increase occurred as the craft, the moon -- which it is orbiting -- and the sun lined up, a phenomenon which Annadurai said was not unexpected and which would likely last until the end of December.
"We have switched off the systems (aboard) that are not needed to be on," Annadurai said, ruling out the possibility of damage and adding that the temperature was now down to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).
Heat on board the Chandrayaan-1 should not exceed 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit), Annadurai said -- but insisted the orbiter is designed to withstand up to 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit).
The Chandrayaan-1 -- Chandrayaan means "moon craft" in Sanskrit -- was successfully launched from southern India on October 22.
Watch the launch of India's first lunar mission »
Don't Miss
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The new race for space
India probe crash-lands successfully on moon
Its two-year mission is to take high-resolution, three-dimensional images of the moon's surface, especially the permanently shadowed polar regions. It also will search for evidence of water or ice and attempt to identify the chemical composition of certain lunar rocks, the group said.
Earlier this month the Moon Impact Probe detached from Chandrayaan-1 and successfully crash-landed on the moon's surface.
Officials say that the TV-size probe, which is adorned with a painting of the Indian flag, hit the moon's surface at a speed of 5,760 kilometers per hour (3,579 mph).
It transmitted data to Chandrayaan-1 ahead of impact but was not intended to be retrieved after that.
Chandrayaan-1 is carrying payloads from the United States, the European Union and Bulgaria. India plans to share the data from the mission with other programs, including NASA.
The spacecraft carrying India's first lunar probe, Chandrayaan-1, lifts off from Sriharikota.
Mylswamy Annadurai, the project director for the lunar mission, told CNN that temperatures onboard Chandrayaan-1 had risen to 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit).
The increase occurred as the craft, the moon -- which it is orbiting -- and the sun lined up, a phenomenon which Annadurai said was not unexpected and which would likely last until the end of December.
"We have switched off the systems (aboard) that are not needed to be on," Annadurai said, ruling out the possibility of damage and adding that the temperature was now down to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).
Heat on board the Chandrayaan-1 should not exceed 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit), Annadurai said -- but insisted the orbiter is designed to withstand up to 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit).
The Chandrayaan-1 -- Chandrayaan means "moon craft" in Sanskrit -- was successfully launched from southern India on October 22.
Watch the launch of India's first lunar mission »
Don't Miss
India launches first moon mission
The new race for space
India probe crash-lands successfully on moon
Its two-year mission is to take high-resolution, three-dimensional images of the moon's surface, especially the permanently shadowed polar regions. It also will search for evidence of water or ice and attempt to identify the chemical composition of certain lunar rocks, the group said.
Earlier this month the Moon Impact Probe detached from Chandrayaan-1 and successfully crash-landed on the moon's surface.
Officials say that the TV-size probe, which is adorned with a painting of the Indian flag, hit the moon's surface at a speed of 5,760 kilometers per hour (3,579 mph).
It transmitted data to Chandrayaan-1 ahead of impact but was not intended to be retrieved after that.
Chandrayaan-1 is carrying payloads from the United States, the European Union and Bulgaria. India plans to share the data from the mission with other programs, including NASA.
Does Obama love or hate the Terps?
From a reporter’s point of view, the best thing about the NCAA tournament – open locker room. It allows us to take you a little bit closer to the team. Before the Terps took the court for practice, players relaxed in the locker room and watched as President Obama unveiled his bracket on ESPN.
If you missed the bit, Obama has the Terps beating Cal but losing to Memphis. Maryland players were a bit mixed on his bracket.
“I like the fact that he picked us to win the first game,” said Greivis Vasquez. “We have to prove him wrong by winning the second game.”
The Terps are a team that embrace the fact they have critics. But they aren’t necessarily counting Obama as a Terp-hater. Players instead seemed to focus on the fact that he picked Maryland to win in the first round, not that he has the Terps losing in the second.
“It shows respect for us,” said Adrian Bowie.
Actually, it shows a lot of respect. Remember that Obama’s brother-in-law happens to coach in the Pac-10 – Oregon State’s Craig Robinson. The Beavers beat Cal twice this season, so might Obama have some inside info that leads him to believe the Terps have an edge?
Just the fact that the president was on TV, going through the bracket with ESPN’s Andy Katz struck players as pretty cool.
“He knows basketball,” said Dave Neal. “I love that we have a president that likes basketball and is into it.”
Still, Neal said Obama’s bracket seemed to be safe and the president avoided picking too many upsets. Neal has been filling out brackets with his family since he was young and said that next year the president can lean on him for some help.
“If he needs to call me for some advice… I’m definitely available for that job,” the senior said.
If you’re wondering what kind of prognosticator Obama is, remember that he picked the Steelers in the Super Bowl.
-- Rick Maese
If you missed the bit, Obama has the Terps beating Cal but losing to Memphis. Maryland players were a bit mixed on his bracket.
“I like the fact that he picked us to win the first game,” said Greivis Vasquez. “We have to prove him wrong by winning the second game.”
The Terps are a team that embrace the fact they have critics. But they aren’t necessarily counting Obama as a Terp-hater. Players instead seemed to focus on the fact that he picked Maryland to win in the first round, not that he has the Terps losing in the second.
“It shows respect for us,” said Adrian Bowie.
Actually, it shows a lot of respect. Remember that Obama’s brother-in-law happens to coach in the Pac-10 – Oregon State’s Craig Robinson. The Beavers beat Cal twice this season, so might Obama have some inside info that leads him to believe the Terps have an edge?
Just the fact that the president was on TV, going through the bracket with ESPN’s Andy Katz struck players as pretty cool.
“He knows basketball,” said Dave Neal. “I love that we have a president that likes basketball and is into it.”
Still, Neal said Obama’s bracket seemed to be safe and the president avoided picking too many upsets. Neal has been filling out brackets with his family since he was young and said that next year the president can lean on him for some help.
“If he needs to call me for some advice… I’m definitely available for that job,” the senior said.
If you’re wondering what kind of prognosticator Obama is, remember that he picked the Steelers in the Super Bowl.
-- Rick Maese
Gempa 7,9 SR di Pasifik Selatan Sebabkan Tsunami
Shohib Masykur - detikNews
Gempa yang kuat terjadi di bawah laut di Kepualuan Tonga, perairan Pasifik selatan. Gempa ini menyebabkan tsunami yang mampu menghancurkan kawasan tersebut.
Demikian disampaikan US Pacific Tsunami Warning Center seperti dikutip Reuters, Jumat (20/3/2009).
Gempa berkekuatan 7,9 SR itu terjadi 212,4 km di sebelah tenggara Nuku'alofa, Tonga, pada Jumat (20/3/2009) pukul 06.17 waktu setempat. Tidak ada laporan kerusakan atau naiknya air laut di Fiji dan Tonga.
"Pengamatan terhadap air laut menunjukkan terjadinya tsunami. Tsunami ini bisa jadi menyebabkan kerusakan di sepanjang pantai kawasan di dekat pusat gempa," demikian pernyataan US National Weather Service's Pacific Tsunami Warning Center.
Peringatan tsunami itu kemudian dicabut untuk daerah Tonga, Niue, Kepulauan Kermadec, American Samoa, Samoa, Wallis-Futuna, dan Fiji. Namun tetap diperingatkan bahwa gelombang laut lokal berpotensi mengakibatkan kerusakan.
"Ancaman tsunami tidak ada lagi untuk wilayah pantai lain di Pasifik. Namun beberapa wilayah mungkin mengalami perubahan ketinggian air laut sedikit," lanjut pernyataan tersebut.
Diperkirakan tsunami itu dirasakan sampai ke Hawaii meski tidak menimbulkan kerusakan di sana. Sedangkan untuk Australia tidak dikeluarkan peringatan tsunami. Adapun untuk Selandia Baru, peringatan tsunami telah dicabut.
"Tidak ada kerusakan maupun kenaikan ari laut. Murid-murid sekolah telah disuruh pulang ke rumah," ucap salah seorang wartawan radio FM96 di Fiji. (sho/ape)
Kampanye Pertama, SBY Gebrak Jakarta di Senayan
Di hari pertama kampanyenya, Ketua Dewan Pembina Partai Demokrat (PD) Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) langsung menggebrak Jakarta. Tak tanggung-tanggung, Gelora Bung Karno, Senayan, jadi 'medan laga' bagi orang nomor satu di Republik tersebut.
Berdasar jadwal kampanye yang diterima dari Bravo Media Center (BMC), SBY menggebrak Jakarta di Senayan pada hari Jumat (20/3/2009) pukul 13.30 WIB.
Sedangkan hari berikutnya, SBY langsung terbang ke Denpasar, Bali, guna menyapa konstituennya di Lapangan Kapten Padang Galak, Denpasar. Pada Minggu 22 Maret 2009, Lapangan Karebosi di Makassar dan Stadion Sriwijaya di Palembang jadi ajang 'jual diri' SBY.
Pada pekan ketiga Maret, tepatnya pada Jumat 27 Maret 2009, SBY akan menyapa konstituennya di Lapangan Gasibu, Bandung, Jawa Barat dan Stadion Ciceri, Serang, Banten.
Sabtu 28 Maret 2009, SBY akan terbang ke Sumatera Utara, menyambangi partisipan PD di Stadion Teladan, Medan. Hari Minggu 29 Maret 2009, SBY masih bersafari keliling Sumatera, yakni di Stadion Harapan Bangsa, Aceh dan Stadion Imam Bonjol, Padang, Sumatera Barat.
Sedangkan seminggu sebelum Pemilihan Umum (Pemilu) digelar, SBY akan 'pulang kampung' ke Jawa. Alun-alun Bangkalan, Madura dan Stadion Tambaksari, Surabaya, Jawa Timur akan dikunjungi SBY pada Jumat 3 April 2009.
Esoknya, Sabtu 4 April 2009, SBY akan bertandang ke 'markas' Sultan Hamengku Buwono X di Yogyakarta, tepatnya di Alun-alun kota gudeg itu. Dan SBY pun menutup kampanyenya di Jawa Tengah. Magelang, Ambarawa dan Simpang Lima, Semarang akan disapa pada Minggu 5 April
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Obama’s Class War Budget vs. Your Income
By Terence P. Jeffrey
President Obama met this week with the chairmen of the congressional budget committees and called for a bipartisan effort to “pass a budget that puts this nation on the road to lasting prosperity.” But the fiscal 2010 budget he presented is a startling call to political class war.
It depicts America as populated by an aggrieved middle class exploited by an upper class luxuriating in ill-gotten gains.
“While middle-class families have been playing by the rules, living up to their responsibilities as neighbors and citizens, those at the commanding heights of our economy have not,” says Obama’s budget document. “There’s nothing wrong with making money, but there is something wrong when we allow the playing field to be tilted so far in the favor of so few.”
To fix this alleged problem, Obama’s budget points—like his famous sidewalk colloquy with “Joe the Plumber”—to using the tax code to spread the wealth around.
“For the better part of three decades, a disproportionate share of the nation’s wealth has been accumulated by the very wealthy,” says the budget. “Yet, instead of using the tax code to lessen these increasing wage disparities, changes in the tax code over the past eight years exacerbated them.”
As evidence of this, the Obama budget cites stagnation in real median household income.
“On top of that, this was the first economic recovery since World War II where real median household income did not rise above its previous peak,” says the budget.
But is this an intellectually honest representation of the recent history of income growth and distribution in the United States? Have we seen wealth progressively concentrating in the hands of a few “for the better part of three decades?”
By carefully presenting a part of the truth, Obama’s budget artfully obscures the whole truth.
The budget cites the Census Bureau as its source for “real median household income.” So I looked to the Census Bureau for a fuller picture of trends in household income.
In August 2008, the Census Bureau published a report titled, “Income, Poverty and Health Insurance Coverage in the United States: 2007.” I called the bureau and was assured this was its latest report on real median household income and that Table A-1 in the report contains the definitive historical numbers of median household income as well as the percentage of the population that fell into each of nine annual-income brackets ranging from “Under $5,000” to “$100,000 and over.”
All the figures in this Census Bureau table are in inflation-adjusted 2007 dollars.
The table shows that real median household income in the United States was $38,771 in 1967 and $50,233 in 2007. That means it jumped $11,462 in 40 years, or 29.56 percent.
But has income accumulated in the hands of the few at the expense of a growing underclass? Table A-1 shows the opposite: The percentage of American households in each of the upper two income brackets has increased, while the percentage of households in each of the lower seven income brackets has decreased
There simply are more “rich” households in America today and fewer “poor” households.
In 1967, only 5.4 percent of households were in the “$100,000 and over” income bracket (in inflation-adjusted 2007 dollars). In 2007, 20.2 percent were in that bracket—making it now the most populated of all brackets.
One out of every five American households is “rich.”
In 1967, only 7.7 percent of American households were in the second-highest bracket, earning between $75,000 and $99,999 per year. By 2007, 11.9 percent were in that bracket.
So in 1967, 13.1 percent of American households earned more than $75,000, and 86.9 percent earned less. In 2007, 32.1 percent of American households earned more than $75,000, and 67.9 percent earned less.
As a share of the population, wealthier people today are almost two-and-a-half times as numerous as they were when the hippie generation was celebrating its Summer of Love.
But what about Obama’s claim that in the last growth cycle median household income never rose above its peak from the previous cycle? There is truth in this.
“Between 2006 and 2007, real median household income rose from $49,568 to $50,233 (Figure 1-Table 1) -- a level not statistically different from the 1999 pre-recession income peak,” says the Census Bureau’s report.
The Figure 1 referred to is a graph that shows the relationship between recessions and real median household income. Its lesson is simple: When the economy declines, household incomes decline. When the economy grows, household incomes grow. Mostly, our free economy has grown, so incomes have grown.
Obama’s class-war budget is based on his belief that he can use the federal tax code to keep incomes down—and still have the economy go up.
President Obama met this week with the chairmen of the congressional budget committees and called for a bipartisan effort to “pass a budget that puts this nation on the road to lasting prosperity.” But the fiscal 2010 budget he presented is a startling call to political class war.
It depicts America as populated by an aggrieved middle class exploited by an upper class luxuriating in ill-gotten gains.
“While middle-class families have been playing by the rules, living up to their responsibilities as neighbors and citizens, those at the commanding heights of our economy have not,” says Obama’s budget document. “There’s nothing wrong with making money, but there is something wrong when we allow the playing field to be tilted so far in the favor of so few.”
To fix this alleged problem, Obama’s budget points—like his famous sidewalk colloquy with “Joe the Plumber”—to using the tax code to spread the wealth around.
“For the better part of three decades, a disproportionate share of the nation’s wealth has been accumulated by the very wealthy,” says the budget. “Yet, instead of using the tax code to lessen these increasing wage disparities, changes in the tax code over the past eight years exacerbated them.”
As evidence of this, the Obama budget cites stagnation in real median household income.
“On top of that, this was the first economic recovery since World War II where real median household income did not rise above its previous peak,” says the budget.
But is this an intellectually honest representation of the recent history of income growth and distribution in the United States? Have we seen wealth progressively concentrating in the hands of a few “for the better part of three decades?”
By carefully presenting a part of the truth, Obama’s budget artfully obscures the whole truth.
The budget cites the Census Bureau as its source for “real median household income.” So I looked to the Census Bureau for a fuller picture of trends in household income.
In August 2008, the Census Bureau published a report titled, “Income, Poverty and Health Insurance Coverage in the United States: 2007.” I called the bureau and was assured this was its latest report on real median household income and that Table A-1 in the report contains the definitive historical numbers of median household income as well as the percentage of the population that fell into each of nine annual-income brackets ranging from “Under $5,000” to “$100,000 and over.”
All the figures in this Census Bureau table are in inflation-adjusted 2007 dollars.
The table shows that real median household income in the United States was $38,771 in 1967 and $50,233 in 2007. That means it jumped $11,462 in 40 years, or 29.56 percent.
But has income accumulated in the hands of the few at the expense of a growing underclass? Table A-1 shows the opposite: The percentage of American households in each of the upper two income brackets has increased, while the percentage of households in each of the lower seven income brackets has decreased
There simply are more “rich” households in America today and fewer “poor” households.
In 1967, only 5.4 percent of households were in the “$100,000 and over” income bracket (in inflation-adjusted 2007 dollars). In 2007, 20.2 percent were in that bracket—making it now the most populated of all brackets.
One out of every five American households is “rich.”
In 1967, only 7.7 percent of American households were in the second-highest bracket, earning between $75,000 and $99,999 per year. By 2007, 11.9 percent were in that bracket.
So in 1967, 13.1 percent of American households earned more than $75,000, and 86.9 percent earned less. In 2007, 32.1 percent of American households earned more than $75,000, and 67.9 percent earned less.
As a share of the population, wealthier people today are almost two-and-a-half times as numerous as they were when the hippie generation was celebrating its Summer of Love.
But what about Obama’s claim that in the last growth cycle median household income never rose above its peak from the previous cycle? There is truth in this.
“Between 2006 and 2007, real median household income rose from $49,568 to $50,233 (Figure 1-Table 1) -- a level not statistically different from the 1999 pre-recession income peak,” says the Census Bureau’s report.
The Figure 1 referred to is a graph that shows the relationship between recessions and real median household income. Its lesson is simple: When the economy declines, household incomes decline. When the economy grows, household incomes grow. Mostly, our free economy has grown, so incomes have grown.
Obama’s class-war budget is based on his belief that he can use the federal tax code to keep incomes down—and still have the economy go up.
Barack Obama visited North Carolina Coach Roy Williams in Chapel Hill last April during the presidential campaign.
President Obama says he watches essentially only one thing on television: basketball. So his N.C.A.A. bracket is rooted in a season’s worth of knowledge, not haphazardly picking whichever team makes political sense.
College basketball offers one of the few reprieves from the vast challenges facing the president. And his advisers sought to lighten the mood, at least for a moment, and capture maximum exposure of Obama’s tournament picks by inviting ESPN to the White House Map Room to watch him fill out his bracket.
Obama selected Louisville, North Carolina, Memphis and Pittsburgh to make it to the Final Four. And the winner? North Carolina, the president predicts.
With the exception of Memphis, each of the teams were the top seed in their respective regions. So is the president playing it safe or playing to win the White House pool? Aides said he believes in his selections — based on knowing the strengths and weaknesses of players after watching games in the White House or aboard Air Force One — and politics didn’t enter into his decisions.
This year, it was an easier task. In last year’s tournament, Obama still faced primary voters (and fans) in North Carolina, Indiana and Pennsylvania when he filled out his bracket. He picked North Carolina, a choice that proved wrong.
“This year don’t embarrass me in front of the nation, all right?” Obama said, addressing his words to coach Roy Williams and the Tar Heels. “I’m counting on you.”
Andy Katz, the college basketball correspondent for ESPN, asked the president whether he overlooked Arizona because of his own rivalry with Senator John McCain.
“It has nothing to do with McCain,” the president said. “I think Arizona is a great state. I love playing golf there. But they just squeaked in, based on reputation.”
College basketball offers one of the few reprieves from the vast challenges facing the president. And his advisers sought to lighten the mood, at least for a moment, and capture maximum exposure of Obama’s tournament picks by inviting ESPN to the White House Map Room to watch him fill out his bracket.
Obama selected Louisville, North Carolina, Memphis and Pittsburgh to make it to the Final Four. And the winner? North Carolina, the president predicts.
With the exception of Memphis, each of the teams were the top seed in their respective regions. So is the president playing it safe or playing to win the White House pool? Aides said he believes in his selections — based on knowing the strengths and weaknesses of players after watching games in the White House or aboard Air Force One — and politics didn’t enter into his decisions.
This year, it was an easier task. In last year’s tournament, Obama still faced primary voters (and fans) in North Carolina, Indiana and Pennsylvania when he filled out his bracket. He picked North Carolina, a choice that proved wrong.
“This year don’t embarrass me in front of the nation, all right?” Obama said, addressing his words to coach Roy Williams and the Tar Heels. “I’m counting on you.”
Andy Katz, the college basketball correspondent for ESPN, asked the president whether he overlooked Arizona because of his own rivalry with Senator John McCain.
“It has nothing to do with McCain,” the president said. “I think Arizona is a great state. I love playing golf there. But they just squeaked in, based on reputation.”
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Action needed to avoid world water crisis, U.N. says
By Patrick Worsnip
UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - The world needs to act urgently to avoid a global water crisis due to increased population, rising living standards, dietary changes and more biofuels production, the United Nations warned on Thursday.
A farmer and his daughter fill buckets with water from a pipe to carry to their fields to water their crops near the village of Zhudong, located 120 kilometres south of Zhengzhou in Henan province in this February 15, 2009 file photo. (REUTERS/David Gray)
By 2030, nearly half of the world's people will be living in areas of acute water shortage, said a report jointly produced by more than two dozen U.N. bodies and issued ahead of a major conference on water to be held in Istanbul next week.
The report, "Water in a Changing World," made "clear that urgent action is needed if we are to avoid a global water crisis," said a foreword by Koichiro Matsuura, head of the U.N. Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
"Despite the vital importance of water to all aspects of human life, the sector has been plagued by a chronic lack of political support, poor governance and underinvestment."
"As a result, hundreds of millions of people around the world remain trapped in poverty and ill health and exposed to the risk of water-related disasters, environmental degradation and even political instability and conflict," Matsuura said.
U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has repeatedly identified water shortage as a major underlying cause of the conflict in Darfur, western Sudan, which began with a rebellion against the central government six years ago. Water is also a major issue between Israel and its Arab neighbors.
The world's population of 6.6 billion is forecast to rise by 2.5 billion by 2050, with most of the growth in developing countries, many in regions where water is already scarce.
The growth rate means demand for fresh water is increasing by 64 billion cubic meters a year, the report said. Authors told a news conference that most of North Africa and the Middle East had already reached the limits of their water resources.
BIOFUELS RISK
Migration from the countryside to cities was also increasing water use, the 318-page report said, as was growing consumption of meat -- the production of which requires more water than vegetables -- in China and elsewhere.
The report added to recent U.N. warnings about the downsides of developing biofuels to replace heavily polluting hydrocarbons as an energy source, because of the water needed to grow crops like corn and sugar cane to produce ethanol.
Saying about 2,500 liters of water is needed to make 1 liter of biofuel, it said implementing all current national biofuel policies and plans would take 180 cubic kilometers of extra irrigation water and 30 million hectares of cropland.
"The impact could be large for some countries, including China and India, and for some regions of large countries, such as the United States," it said. "There could also be significant implications for water resources, with possible feedback into global grain markets."
When oil prices peaked at over $140 a barrel last year, "the kneejerk reaction was 'well, we are going to grow our energy - biofuels.' But nobody took account of how much water it was going to require," William Cosgrove, coordinator of the report, told journalists.
On the positive side, the report pointed to successful water policies in Uganda and Turkey and said a U.N. goal of halving the population lacking access to safe drinking water by 2015 would be achieved except in sub-Saharan Africa.
But it said in many countries water policies failed to make any impact because key decisions affecting water were made in other sectors of the economy.
Government and business leaders needed to act now to boost investment in water infrastructure, it said, adding, "Unsustainable management and inequitable access to water resources cannot continue."
UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - The world needs to act urgently to avoid a global water crisis due to increased population, rising living standards, dietary changes and more biofuels production, the United Nations warned on Thursday.
A farmer and his daughter fill buckets with water from a pipe to carry to their fields to water their crops near the village of Zhudong, located 120 kilometres south of Zhengzhou in Henan province in this February 15, 2009 file photo. (REUTERS/David Gray)
By 2030, nearly half of the world's people will be living in areas of acute water shortage, said a report jointly produced by more than two dozen U.N. bodies and issued ahead of a major conference on water to be held in Istanbul next week.
The report, "Water in a Changing World," made "clear that urgent action is needed if we are to avoid a global water crisis," said a foreword by Koichiro Matsuura, head of the U.N. Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
"Despite the vital importance of water to all aspects of human life, the sector has been plagued by a chronic lack of political support, poor governance and underinvestment."
"As a result, hundreds of millions of people around the world remain trapped in poverty and ill health and exposed to the risk of water-related disasters, environmental degradation and even political instability and conflict," Matsuura said.
U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has repeatedly identified water shortage as a major underlying cause of the conflict in Darfur, western Sudan, which began with a rebellion against the central government six years ago. Water is also a major issue between Israel and its Arab neighbors.
The world's population of 6.6 billion is forecast to rise by 2.5 billion by 2050, with most of the growth in developing countries, many in regions where water is already scarce.
The growth rate means demand for fresh water is increasing by 64 billion cubic meters a year, the report said. Authors told a news conference that most of North Africa and the Middle East had already reached the limits of their water resources.
BIOFUELS RISK
Migration from the countryside to cities was also increasing water use, the 318-page report said, as was growing consumption of meat -- the production of which requires more water than vegetables -- in China and elsewhere.
The report added to recent U.N. warnings about the downsides of developing biofuels to replace heavily polluting hydrocarbons as an energy source, because of the water needed to grow crops like corn and sugar cane to produce ethanol.
Saying about 2,500 liters of water is needed to make 1 liter of biofuel, it said implementing all current national biofuel policies and plans would take 180 cubic kilometers of extra irrigation water and 30 million hectares of cropland.
"The impact could be large for some countries, including China and India, and for some regions of large countries, such as the United States," it said. "There could also be significant implications for water resources, with possible feedback into global grain markets."
When oil prices peaked at over $140 a barrel last year, "the kneejerk reaction was 'well, we are going to grow our energy - biofuels.' But nobody took account of how much water it was going to require," William Cosgrove, coordinator of the report, told journalists.
On the positive side, the report pointed to successful water policies in Uganda and Turkey and said a U.N. goal of halving the population lacking access to safe drinking water by 2015 would be achieved except in sub-Saharan Africa.
But it said in many countries water policies failed to make any impact because key decisions affecting water were made in other sectors of the economy.
Government and business leaders needed to act now to boost investment in water infrastructure, it said, adding, "Unsustainable management and inequitable access to water resources cannot continue."
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Final Gaza toll shows 960 civilians killed - group
GAZA (Reuters) - Israel's 22-day offensive in the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip killed 1,434 people, including 960 civilians, 239 police officers and 235 fighters, a Palestinian human rights group said on Thursday.
Israel carried out attacks by air, land and sea from Dec. 27 to Jan. 18 in a bid, it said, to force Hamas and other militant Islamist groups to stop firing rockets and mortars at southern Israeli towns across their border.
A Palestinian boy looks at a Hamas security complex, destroyed after an Israeli air strike, in the central Gaza Strip in this February 2, 2009 file photo. (REUTERS/Suhaib Salem)
"The Palestinian Centre for Human Rights' investigations reveal that throughout the course of the assault, Israeli Occupation Forces used excessive, indiscriminate force, in violation of the principle of distinction," the group said in a report (www.pchrgaza.org).
The principle of distinction "obliges all parties to the conflict to distinguish between combatants and non-combatants".
An Israeli military spokesman said the army had "made every effort to minimise harm to the civilian population" during the fighting.
The army said it telephoned warnings in advance to urge residents to leave combat zones. The army statement rejected the charges it had set out to intentionally harm civilians calling the allegations "absurd and false".
The group said it would publish a list of the identities of those killed next week and would post them on its website in Arabic, with an English version to follow.
It said the "disproportionately high rate of death amongst the civilian population, when compared to that of resistance fighters" was evidence that Israeli forces had not respected this principle.
The rights group said 288 children and 121 women were among civilians killed in the bombing and shelling.
"The Ministry of Health have also confirmed that a total of 5,303 Palestinians were injured in the assault, including 1,606 children and 828 women," it said.
It called for an international investigation into "crimes committed by the Israeli forces and Israel's conduct of hostilities" and "prosecution of all political and military officials" accused.
The Israeli military statement questioned why the rights group had not made references to Israeli charges that Hamas had used civilians as human shields.
During the offensive, 13 Israelis were killed, including 3 by rockets fired into Israel.
Israeli media have quoted officers as saying there was far less resistance from Islamist gunmen than they had expected. A Palestinian opinion poll this week showed Hamas had gained significantly in popularity since the war.
Israel carried out attacks by air, land and sea from Dec. 27 to Jan. 18 in a bid, it said, to force Hamas and other militant Islamist groups to stop firing rockets and mortars at southern Israeli towns across their border.
A Palestinian boy looks at a Hamas security complex, destroyed after an Israeli air strike, in the central Gaza Strip in this February 2, 2009 file photo. (REUTERS/Suhaib Salem)
"The Palestinian Centre for Human Rights' investigations reveal that throughout the course of the assault, Israeli Occupation Forces used excessive, indiscriminate force, in violation of the principle of distinction," the group said in a report (www.pchrgaza.org).
The principle of distinction "obliges all parties to the conflict to distinguish between combatants and non-combatants".
An Israeli military spokesman said the army had "made every effort to minimise harm to the civilian population" during the fighting.
The army said it telephoned warnings in advance to urge residents to leave combat zones. The army statement rejected the charges it had set out to intentionally harm civilians calling the allegations "absurd and false".
The group said it would publish a list of the identities of those killed next week and would post them on its website in Arabic, with an English version to follow.
It said the "disproportionately high rate of death amongst the civilian population, when compared to that of resistance fighters" was evidence that Israeli forces had not respected this principle.
The rights group said 288 children and 121 women were among civilians killed in the bombing and shelling.
"The Ministry of Health have also confirmed that a total of 5,303 Palestinians were injured in the assault, including 1,606 children and 828 women," it said.
It called for an international investigation into "crimes committed by the Israeli forces and Israel's conduct of hostilities" and "prosecution of all political and military officials" accused.
The Israeli military statement questioned why the rights group had not made references to Israeli charges that Hamas had used civilians as human shields.
During the offensive, 13 Israelis were killed, including 3 by rockets fired into Israel.
Israeli media have quoted officers as saying there was far less resistance from Islamist gunmen than they had expected. A Palestinian opinion poll this week showed Hamas had gained significantly in popularity since the war.
Obama extends U.S. sanctions against Iran
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Barack Obama said on Thursday he was extending sanctions against Iran as it continued to pose an "extraordinary threat" to the national security, foreign policy and economy of the United States.
Obama declared the routine extension of economic sanctions imposed by former President Bill Clinton in March 1995 in a public notice. "I am continuing for one year the national emergency with respect to Iran," he said.
U.S. President Barack Obama speaks at a meeting of business leaders at a hotel in Washington, March 12, 2009. Obama said on Thursday he was extending sanctions against Iran as it continued to pose an "extraordinary threat" to the national security, foreign policy and economy of the United States. (REUTERS/Jason Reed)
In a change of policy from the Bush administration, Obama has said he would be open to engaging with Iran on a range of issues, from its nuclear ambitions to how it could help in Afghanistan, where NATO-led forces are struggling against a worsening insurgency.
The Obama administration intends to invite Tehran to an international conference on Afghanistan, which borders Iran, planned for this month. Iran has said it is prepared to consider the invitation.
The United States, however, is still at loggerheads with Iran over its nuclear program, which Washington says is aimed at building atomic weapons, while Tehran insists it is for the peaceful generation of electricity.
The United States cut off diplomatic ties with Iran during the 1979-81 hostage crisis, in which a group of militant Iranian students held 52 U.S. diplomats hostage at the American embassy for 444 days.
Obama has said the United States is prepared to extend a hand of peace to Iran if it "unclenched its fist". Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has said he is open to talks with Washington but has demanded a fundamental change to U.S. policy in the Middle East.
Copyright © 2008 Reuters
Obama declared the routine extension of economic sanctions imposed by former President Bill Clinton in March 1995 in a public notice. "I am continuing for one year the national emergency with respect to Iran," he said.
U.S. President Barack Obama speaks at a meeting of business leaders at a hotel in Washington, March 12, 2009. Obama said on Thursday he was extending sanctions against Iran as it continued to pose an "extraordinary threat" to the national security, foreign policy and economy of the United States. (REUTERS/Jason Reed)
In a change of policy from the Bush administration, Obama has said he would be open to engaging with Iran on a range of issues, from its nuclear ambitions to how it could help in Afghanistan, where NATO-led forces are struggling against a worsening insurgency.
The Obama administration intends to invite Tehran to an international conference on Afghanistan, which borders Iran, planned for this month. Iran has said it is prepared to consider the invitation.
The United States, however, is still at loggerheads with Iran over its nuclear program, which Washington says is aimed at building atomic weapons, while Tehran insists it is for the peaceful generation of electricity.
The United States cut off diplomatic ties with Iran during the 1979-81 hostage crisis, in which a group of militant Iranian students held 52 U.S. diplomats hostage at the American embassy for 444 days.
Obama has said the United States is prepared to extend a hand of peace to Iran if it "unclenched its fist". Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has said he is open to talks with Washington but has demanded a fundamental change to U.S. policy in the Middle East.
Copyright © 2008 Reuters
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Executive From Google to Replace Two at AOL
By SAUL HANSELL
Published: March 12, 2009
Time Warner abruptly fired the two top leaders of its struggling AOL unit Wednesday and replaced them with one of the top executives from Google.
AOL’s new chairman and chief executive will be Tim Armstrong, who joined Google in 2000 to start a sales operation for the then-tiny search engine. Since then, Google has grown to sell more advertising than any newspaper, magazine or television network. Mr. Armstrong, who was the president of American operations, looked after both advertising sales and relationships with publishers.
He replaces Randy Falco, a former top executive of NBC, who was brought in to run AOL in November 2006 by Jeffrey L. Bewkes, Time Warner’s chief executive.
Ron Grant, a former aide to Mr. Bewkes who was the No. 2 executive at AOL under Mr. Falco, was also fired Wednesday.
Mr. Falco’s reign has been marked by turmoil in AOL’s ranks, with many top executives leaving of their own accord and others fired by Mr. Falco. He also oversaw the elimination of thousands of jobs, as the company’s revenue from its original subscription business dwindled.
AOL today is a different company than when it was the country’s leading Internet access provider, helping a generation learn how to send e-mail and instant messages and use the Web.
It still has a large number of users of its e-mail service and portal and has developed specialized Web sites, like Engadget for technology news and TMZ for celebrity gossip. AOL has also bought a series of companies that sell advertising on other Web sites.
Mr. Falco’s biggest move was to buy Bebo, a social network popular in Britain, for $850 million last spring, just a bit before the stock market began its free fall. Many in the Internet industry say that Mr. Falco paid far more for Bebo than it was worth, especially given Facebook’s continued rise in social networking.
In a short interview, Mr. Armstrong declined to say much about his plans but said that the company, despite its troubles, has potential.
“You can argue about its reputation, but everybody in the world knows AOL,” he said.
On a personal level, he said that he had left Google in order to take advantage of a better opportunity.
“I’m 38 years old, and this gives me the opportunity to move on my own and lead a company forward,” he said.
Published: March 12, 2009
Time Warner abruptly fired the two top leaders of its struggling AOL unit Wednesday and replaced them with one of the top executives from Google.
AOL’s new chairman and chief executive will be Tim Armstrong, who joined Google in 2000 to start a sales operation for the then-tiny search engine. Since then, Google has grown to sell more advertising than any newspaper, magazine or television network. Mr. Armstrong, who was the president of American operations, looked after both advertising sales and relationships with publishers.
He replaces Randy Falco, a former top executive of NBC, who was brought in to run AOL in November 2006 by Jeffrey L. Bewkes, Time Warner’s chief executive.
Ron Grant, a former aide to Mr. Bewkes who was the No. 2 executive at AOL under Mr. Falco, was also fired Wednesday.
Mr. Falco’s reign has been marked by turmoil in AOL’s ranks, with many top executives leaving of their own accord and others fired by Mr. Falco. He also oversaw the elimination of thousands of jobs, as the company’s revenue from its original subscription business dwindled.
AOL today is a different company than when it was the country’s leading Internet access provider, helping a generation learn how to send e-mail and instant messages and use the Web.
It still has a large number of users of its e-mail service and portal and has developed specialized Web sites, like Engadget for technology news and TMZ for celebrity gossip. AOL has also bought a series of companies that sell advertising on other Web sites.
Mr. Falco’s biggest move was to buy Bebo, a social network popular in Britain, for $850 million last spring, just a bit before the stock market began its free fall. Many in the Internet industry say that Mr. Falco paid far more for Bebo than it was worth, especially given Facebook’s continued rise in social networking.
In a short interview, Mr. Armstrong declined to say much about his plans but said that the company, despite its troubles, has potential.
“You can argue about its reputation, but everybody in the world knows AOL,” he said.
On a personal level, he said that he had left Google in order to take advantage of a better opportunity.
“I’m 38 years old, and this gives me the opportunity to move on my own and lead a company forward,” he said.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Asian shares to gain on brighter news
WELLINGTON -- Asian shares are likely to rise on Friday after US retail sales data showed signs of stabilization in consumer spending, and investors were buoyed by only a slight rating cut to General Electric.
The beleaguered financial sector was buoyed by the Bank of America reporting a profitable start to the year, and a comment from the chief executive the bank should be able to ride out the recession without further help from taxpayers.
The main US indexes rose at least 3.5 percent as Standard & Poor's cut General Electric's AAA rating, but assigned it a stable outlook.
US retail sales fell in February, but the fall was shallower than expected, although other data showed a record 5.3 million workers were on jobless benefits.
Asian investors will look to data out of Japan, with revised industrial production for January and February consumer confidence due on Friday.
Japanese shares are likely to rally strongly, with Nikkei futures last trading in Chicago at 7,445 points, 325 points above the last traded level in Osaka.
The US dollar gained against the yen but was weaker against the euro. Both the dollar and the euro rallied sharply against the Swiss franc, after the Swiss central bank said it was intervening in the foreign exchange market as it faced the risk of deflation.
Crude oil prices surged 11 percent on the US retail sales data, with commodity prices also broadly firmer
The beleaguered financial sector was buoyed by the Bank of America reporting a profitable start to the year, and a comment from the chief executive the bank should be able to ride out the recession without further help from taxpayers.
The main US indexes rose at least 3.5 percent as Standard & Poor's cut General Electric's AAA rating, but assigned it a stable outlook.
US retail sales fell in February, but the fall was shallower than expected, although other data showed a record 5.3 million workers were on jobless benefits.
Asian investors will look to data out of Japan, with revised industrial production for January and February consumer confidence due on Friday.
Japanese shares are likely to rally strongly, with Nikkei futures last trading in Chicago at 7,445 points, 325 points above the last traded level in Osaka.
The US dollar gained against the yen but was weaker against the euro. Both the dollar and the euro rallied sharply against the Swiss franc, after the Swiss central bank said it was intervening in the foreign exchange market as it faced the risk of deflation.
Crude oil prices surged 11 percent on the US retail sales data, with commodity prices also broadly firmer
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Pretty woman is pretty funny By Ruben V. Nepales
LOS ANGELES, California—“Are you implying that I’m not dolled up?” Julia Roberts asked impishly when a reporter at this press con prefaced her question with, “We have seen a lot of actresses in that hot seat where you are now, trying to be dolled up.”
With the famous 1,000-megawatt smile, Julia quipped: “I don’t know how I feel about that. You should have seen me three hours ago.”
For the record, Julia was looking every inch a “Pretty Woman”—except that she was casually dressed in black denim jacket over a long-sleeved white shirt and jeans.
Asked if she has the patience to get, well, all dolled up in her everyday life, the actress who stars with Clive Owen in the drama-thriller, “Duplicity,” replied: “No, I would never make it out the door.”
Julia, the mother of twins, Hazel and Phinn, 4, and Henry, 18 months, continued: “When you’ve got three people to get dressed to get out the door, then you don’t really spend a lot of time on yourself. I was never one to do my hair and make-up for myself just to go marketing. If I get a little eye cream on, I feel I’m ahead of myself.”
What about the paparazzi, a reporter wanted to know.
“There’s not that many who follow me,” Julia wryly noted. “It’s the slow ones who haven’t figured out that I’m not the one to follow.”
Married since 2002, Julia was asked how she and cinematographer Danny Moder, the father of her three kids, “arrived at that trust” especially since she’s working opposite attractive men in films. (We’ve written previously about “Duplicity” and the chemistry and friendship of Julia and Clive.).
“Danny and I don’t arrive at that,” she answered. “We just are that. We just occupy that space of love and trust. We’re best friends and we support each other in every way. He loves Clive as much as I do. It doesn’t make any difference that you go to work with some handsome, talented guy.”
Unbreakable bond
Julia expounded that she does not have the monopoly of being exposed to beautiful people. “There are beautiful women walking around the supermarket, you know,” she pointed out. “I mean ... there’s no shortage of interesting people in the world. You have that connection with your partner and it becomes that unbreakable bond. That’s why you get married ... I just know that I’ve found my husband and we understand each other. So that is my great fortune. Everything comes from that.”
A reporter inquired if she finds that people are intimidated by her. And was she the one who asked Danny to marry her because he might have been daunted, too?
Julia, without skipping a beat, retorted: “If someone’s that afraid of you, you probably shouldn’t be together.”
Giving the journalist an unblinking, intense stare to serve as an ironic counterpoint to her words, Julia deadpanned: “I don’t think I’m a scary person. I don’t think I intimidate people unless I want to.” As the assembled press tittered at her mock-intimidating stance, she broke into that smile and giggled. “I’m getting warmed up now,” she teased.
In “Duplicity,” Julia and Clive play corporate spies engaged to secure the formula for a product that will bring a huge windfall to the company that patents it first. This formula and what it will treat are not revealed until near the film’s end so we will not disclose these spoilers.
When another reporter began asking Julia, “In real life, if you get your hands on this formula …,” she did not wait for the guy to finish his question. “I will call you!” she told him. She brought the house down with laughter. “Is that what you were going to ask me? You’re covered.”
Good threesome
On how the twins have taken to their baby brother, Julia answered: “They love him so much since the moment his feet hit the ground. They’re definitely a threesome.”
As to how her kids feel about their mom being famous, Julia joked: “Was I famous?” Then she commented, “I don’t think they’ve figured it out yet, which I’m happy to report.”
She sometimes wonders whether her kids know what her profession is, because they’re always with her at work. “They’re in a trailer and they meet Clive. They know that Tony is my boss. They’ve never really asked me what the name of my job is,” Julia said. “It will be interesting but I think that when they figure it out, they’ll be able to participate in a conversation with me about it when they can already understand.”
In the meantime, she has been teaching her kids the joys of organic gardening. “We’ve just dug up our garden to replant,” happily reported the actress who remembered how her mother had a garden compost, and made peanut butter, bread, jelly and other stuff from scratch. “The kids love the garden. It’s the best training. When children are able to know their food sources, they’re more inclined to eat what they’re growing because they’re so proud of it. To watch my kids eat kale is a pretty proud moment for me as a mom. They’ve grown the garden and they’re so impressed. It’s so gorgeous a garden—vegetables and everything. They love participating in that.”
Julia drives a tractor in the family’s ranch in New Mexico. Described as one of the “greenest celebs,” she said of her house in Malibu: “We use a lot of solar power. It’s not a 100-percent green house but I’d say that all the materials that were in the house before went to Habitat for Humanity.”
Broadway debut
She went on: “We all need to do things, certainly and there are so many little simple things that you can do through the course of a day—compost our food, unplug our appliances when not in use, put lights on dimmers and timers. So much energy would be saved.”
Another writer steered Julia to her Broadway debut, “Three Days of Rain,” in 2006. She gushed: “It was great. I loved it. It’s hard to be on stage eight times a week. It is relentless but it’s magical and amazing. Joe Mantello, my director, was just perfect for me because he pushed and encouraged me. I would probably do it again.”
Since the media is prone to proclaiming a hot newcomer as the new this and new that, she was asked who she thinks is the new Julia Roberts. The 41-year-old star gamely dished: “Well, I’m here. Not new but clean pressed. There’s just a lot of talented girls, for sure. The first one that springs to mind is Anne Hathaway. She seems lovely, talented and she’s got her feet on the ground. Keira Knightley is so good. She was amazing in ‘The Duchess.’ Reese Witherspoon is a great talent. There are so many talented actresses that I look up to, regardless of whether they’re younger or older like Annette Bening, Frances McDormand and Susan Sarandon.”
With the humor, candor and good nature she displayed that morning, we’ll go with this particular Julia Roberts anytime.
With the famous 1,000-megawatt smile, Julia quipped: “I don’t know how I feel about that. You should have seen me three hours ago.”
For the record, Julia was looking every inch a “Pretty Woman”—except that she was casually dressed in black denim jacket over a long-sleeved white shirt and jeans.
Asked if she has the patience to get, well, all dolled up in her everyday life, the actress who stars with Clive Owen in the drama-thriller, “Duplicity,” replied: “No, I would never make it out the door.”
Julia, the mother of twins, Hazel and Phinn, 4, and Henry, 18 months, continued: “When you’ve got three people to get dressed to get out the door, then you don’t really spend a lot of time on yourself. I was never one to do my hair and make-up for myself just to go marketing. If I get a little eye cream on, I feel I’m ahead of myself.”
What about the paparazzi, a reporter wanted to know.
“There’s not that many who follow me,” Julia wryly noted. “It’s the slow ones who haven’t figured out that I’m not the one to follow.”
Married since 2002, Julia was asked how she and cinematographer Danny Moder, the father of her three kids, “arrived at that trust” especially since she’s working opposite attractive men in films. (We’ve written previously about “Duplicity” and the chemistry and friendship of Julia and Clive.).
“Danny and I don’t arrive at that,” she answered. “We just are that. We just occupy that space of love and trust. We’re best friends and we support each other in every way. He loves Clive as much as I do. It doesn’t make any difference that you go to work with some handsome, talented guy.”
Unbreakable bond
Julia expounded that she does not have the monopoly of being exposed to beautiful people. “There are beautiful women walking around the supermarket, you know,” she pointed out. “I mean ... there’s no shortage of interesting people in the world. You have that connection with your partner and it becomes that unbreakable bond. That’s why you get married ... I just know that I’ve found my husband and we understand each other. So that is my great fortune. Everything comes from that.”
A reporter inquired if she finds that people are intimidated by her. And was she the one who asked Danny to marry her because he might have been daunted, too?
Julia, without skipping a beat, retorted: “If someone’s that afraid of you, you probably shouldn’t be together.”
Giving the journalist an unblinking, intense stare to serve as an ironic counterpoint to her words, Julia deadpanned: “I don’t think I’m a scary person. I don’t think I intimidate people unless I want to.” As the assembled press tittered at her mock-intimidating stance, she broke into that smile and giggled. “I’m getting warmed up now,” she teased.
In “Duplicity,” Julia and Clive play corporate spies engaged to secure the formula for a product that will bring a huge windfall to the company that patents it first. This formula and what it will treat are not revealed until near the film’s end so we will not disclose these spoilers.
When another reporter began asking Julia, “In real life, if you get your hands on this formula …,” she did not wait for the guy to finish his question. “I will call you!” she told him. She brought the house down with laughter. “Is that what you were going to ask me? You’re covered.”
Good threesome
On how the twins have taken to their baby brother, Julia answered: “They love him so much since the moment his feet hit the ground. They’re definitely a threesome.”
As to how her kids feel about their mom being famous, Julia joked: “Was I famous?” Then she commented, “I don’t think they’ve figured it out yet, which I’m happy to report.”
She sometimes wonders whether her kids know what her profession is, because they’re always with her at work. “They’re in a trailer and they meet Clive. They know that Tony is my boss. They’ve never really asked me what the name of my job is,” Julia said. “It will be interesting but I think that when they figure it out, they’ll be able to participate in a conversation with me about it when they can already understand.”
In the meantime, she has been teaching her kids the joys of organic gardening. “We’ve just dug up our garden to replant,” happily reported the actress who remembered how her mother had a garden compost, and made peanut butter, bread, jelly and other stuff from scratch. “The kids love the garden. It’s the best training. When children are able to know their food sources, they’re more inclined to eat what they’re growing because they’re so proud of it. To watch my kids eat kale is a pretty proud moment for me as a mom. They’ve grown the garden and they’re so impressed. It’s so gorgeous a garden—vegetables and everything. They love participating in that.”
Julia drives a tractor in the family’s ranch in New Mexico. Described as one of the “greenest celebs,” she said of her house in Malibu: “We use a lot of solar power. It’s not a 100-percent green house but I’d say that all the materials that were in the house before went to Habitat for Humanity.”
Broadway debut
She went on: “We all need to do things, certainly and there are so many little simple things that you can do through the course of a day—compost our food, unplug our appliances when not in use, put lights on dimmers and timers. So much energy would be saved.”
Another writer steered Julia to her Broadway debut, “Three Days of Rain,” in 2006. She gushed: “It was great. I loved it. It’s hard to be on stage eight times a week. It is relentless but it’s magical and amazing. Joe Mantello, my director, was just perfect for me because he pushed and encouraged me. I would probably do it again.”
Since the media is prone to proclaiming a hot newcomer as the new this and new that, she was asked who she thinks is the new Julia Roberts. The 41-year-old star gamely dished: “Well, I’m here. Not new but clean pressed. There’s just a lot of talented girls, for sure. The first one that springs to mind is Anne Hathaway. She seems lovely, talented and she’s got her feet on the ground. Keira Knightley is so good. She was amazing in ‘The Duchess.’ Reese Witherspoon is a great talent. There are so many talented actresses that I look up to, regardless of whether they’re younger or older like Annette Bening, Frances McDormand and Susan Sarandon.”
With the humor, candor and good nature she displayed that morning, we’ll go with this particular Julia Roberts anytime.
Obama White House: Copyright treaty is a 'national security' secret
Last September, the Bush administration defended the unusual secrecy over an anti-counterfeiting treaty being negotiated by the U.S. government, which some liberal groups worry could criminalize some peer-to-peer file sharing that infringes copyrights.
Now President Obama's White House has tightened the cloak of government secrecy still further, saying in a letter this week that a discussion draft of the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement and related materials are "classified in the interest of national security pursuant to Executive Order 12958."
The 1995 Executive Order 12958 allows material to be classified only if disclosure would do "damage to the national security and the original classification authority is able to identify or describe the damage."
Jamie Love, director of the non-profit group Knowledge Ecology International, filed the Freedom of Information Act request that resulted in this week's denial from the White House. The denial letter was sent to Love on Tuesday by Carmen Suro-Bredie, chief FOIA officer in the White House's Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.
Love had written in his original request on January 31 -- submitted soon after Obama's inauguration -- that the documents "are being widely circulated to corporate lobbyists in Europe, Japan and the U.S. There is no reason for them to be secret from the American public."
The White House appears to be continuing the secretive policy of the Bush administration, which wrote to the Electronic Frontier Foundation on January 16 that out of 806 pages related to the treaty, all but 10 were "classified in the interest of national security pursuant to Executive Order 12,958."
In one of his first acts as president, Obama signed a memo saying FOIA "should be administered with a clear presumption: In the face of doubt, openness prevails. The government should not keep information confidential merely because public officials might be embarrassed by disclosure."
Love's group believes that the U.S. and Japan want the treaty to say that willful trademark and copyright infringement on a commercial scale must be subject to criminal sanctions, including infringement that has "no direct or indirect motivation of financial gain."
A June 2008 memo from the International Chamber of Commerce, signed by pro-copyright groups, says: "intellectual property theft is no less a crime than physical property theft. An effective ACTA should therefore establish clear and transparent standards for the calculation and imposition of effective criminal penalties for IP theft that... apply to both online and off-line IP transactions." Similarly, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has called for "criminal penalties for IP crimes, including online infringements."
Last fall, two senators -- Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) and Arlen Specter (R-Penn.) -- known for their support of stringent intellectual property laws expressed concern that the ACTA could be too far-reaching.
Declan McCullagh, CNET News' chief political correspondent, chronicles the intersection of politics and technology. He has covered politics, technology, and Washington, D.C., for more than a decade, which has turned him into an iconoclast and a skeptic of anyone who says, "We oughta have a new federal law against this." E-mail Declan.
Now President Obama's White House has tightened the cloak of government secrecy still further, saying in a letter this week that a discussion draft of the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement and related materials are "classified in the interest of national security pursuant to Executive Order 12958."
The 1995 Executive Order 12958 allows material to be classified only if disclosure would do "damage to the national security and the original classification authority is able to identify or describe the damage."
Jamie Love, director of the non-profit group Knowledge Ecology International, filed the Freedom of Information Act request that resulted in this week's denial from the White House. The denial letter was sent to Love on Tuesday by Carmen Suro-Bredie, chief FOIA officer in the White House's Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.
Love had written in his original request on January 31 -- submitted soon after Obama's inauguration -- that the documents "are being widely circulated to corporate lobbyists in Europe, Japan and the U.S. There is no reason for them to be secret from the American public."
The White House appears to be continuing the secretive policy of the Bush administration, which wrote to the Electronic Frontier Foundation on January 16 that out of 806 pages related to the treaty, all but 10 were "classified in the interest of national security pursuant to Executive Order 12,958."
In one of his first acts as president, Obama signed a memo saying FOIA "should be administered with a clear presumption: In the face of doubt, openness prevails. The government should not keep information confidential merely because public officials might be embarrassed by disclosure."
Love's group believes that the U.S. and Japan want the treaty to say that willful trademark and copyright infringement on a commercial scale must be subject to criminal sanctions, including infringement that has "no direct or indirect motivation of financial gain."
A June 2008 memo from the International Chamber of Commerce, signed by pro-copyright groups, says: "intellectual property theft is no less a crime than physical property theft. An effective ACTA should therefore establish clear and transparent standards for the calculation and imposition of effective criminal penalties for IP theft that... apply to both online and off-line IP transactions." Similarly, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has called for "criminal penalties for IP crimes, including online infringements."
Last fall, two senators -- Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) and Arlen Specter (R-Penn.) -- known for their support of stringent intellectual property laws expressed concern that the ACTA could be too far-reaching.
Declan McCullagh, CNET News' chief political correspondent, chronicles the intersection of politics and technology. He has covered politics, technology, and Washington, D.C., for more than a decade, which has turned him into an iconoclast and a skeptic of anyone who says, "We oughta have a new federal law against this." E-mail Declan.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Japan to help train Timor Leste's military personnel
TOKYO: Japan agreed on Monday to help train Timor Leste's military and lend support during natural disasters and epidemics, officials and news reports said.
The agreement came as Timor Leste's Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao, on a four-day visit to Japan, held a series of talks with government officials including Prime Minister Taro Aso, the government said.
"Prime Minister Aso stated that Japan would continue to actively assist peace-building in Timor Leste for peace and stability in the country and in the Asia-Pacific region," their joint press statement said.
Aso told Gusmao that Japan was ready to receive military personnel to study at the National Defence Academy of Japan starting in April next year so that the Timor Leste armed forces can better work with UN peacekeeping troops there.
Aso invited Timor Leste's President Jose Ramos-Horta to Japan, while the two leaders agreed to work together to jointly tackle regional and global issues, including North Korea's missile threat, the statement said.
Earlier in the day, Japanese Defence Minister Yasukazu Hamada held talks with Gusmao and promised to support Timor Leste in the event of natural disasters and to help fight infectious diseases, Jiji Press said.
Gusmao also met Japanese Foreign Minister Hirofumi Nakasone and asked for Japanese loans aimed at helping the country speed up construction of infrastructure, the foreign ministry said.
Nakasone told Gusmao that Tokyo is considering sending a fact-finding mission to Timor Leste to carry out feasibility studies on possible public work projects Japan can financially support.
Japan has so far provided more than 15 billion yen (152 million dollars) in grant-in-aid to Timor Leste, but has yet to extend any government loans to the country.
Nakasone also offered Japanese support for Timor Leste's effort to be a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the ministry said.
ASEAN, which groups Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, has maintained a regular dialogue with three Asian economic powers - China, Japan and South Korea.
Japan, despite its post-World War II pacifist constitution, sent peacekeepers to Timor Leste after country won independence from Indonesia in 2002 following a bloody conflict.
Tokyo, a major financial supporter to Timor Leste, has also sent election monitors to the country, which was occupied by imperial Japan during WWII.
Indonesia invaded East Timor in 1975 and ruled the former Portuguese colony with a brutal grip until 1999, when the United Nations took charge. Timor Leste eventually won independence in 2002
The agreement came as Timor Leste's Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao, on a four-day visit to Japan, held a series of talks with government officials including Prime Minister Taro Aso, the government said.
"Prime Minister Aso stated that Japan would continue to actively assist peace-building in Timor Leste for peace and stability in the country and in the Asia-Pacific region," their joint press statement said.
Aso told Gusmao that Japan was ready to receive military personnel to study at the National Defence Academy of Japan starting in April next year so that the Timor Leste armed forces can better work with UN peacekeeping troops there.
Aso invited Timor Leste's President Jose Ramos-Horta to Japan, while the two leaders agreed to work together to jointly tackle regional and global issues, including North Korea's missile threat, the statement said.
Earlier in the day, Japanese Defence Minister Yasukazu Hamada held talks with Gusmao and promised to support Timor Leste in the event of natural disasters and to help fight infectious diseases, Jiji Press said.
Gusmao also met Japanese Foreign Minister Hirofumi Nakasone and asked for Japanese loans aimed at helping the country speed up construction of infrastructure, the foreign ministry said.
Nakasone told Gusmao that Tokyo is considering sending a fact-finding mission to Timor Leste to carry out feasibility studies on possible public work projects Japan can financially support.
Japan has so far provided more than 15 billion yen (152 million dollars) in grant-in-aid to Timor Leste, but has yet to extend any government loans to the country.
Nakasone also offered Japanese support for Timor Leste's effort to be a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the ministry said.
ASEAN, which groups Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, has maintained a regular dialogue with three Asian economic powers - China, Japan and South Korea.
Japan, despite its post-World War II pacifist constitution, sent peacekeepers to Timor Leste after country won independence from Indonesia in 2002 following a bloody conflict.
Tokyo, a major financial supporter to Timor Leste, has also sent election monitors to the country, which was occupied by imperial Japan during WWII.
Indonesia invaded East Timor in 1975 and ruled the former Portuguese colony with a brutal grip until 1999, when the United Nations took charge. Timor Leste eventually won independence in 2002
Obama lifts Bush ban on stem cell research
By Jitendra Joshi
Agence France-Presse
First Posted 07:09:00 03/10/2009
Filed Under: Obama Articles, Research & Development, Science & Technology, Health treatment, Diseases, US politics
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama Monday lifted a ban on federal funding for embryonic stem cell research, lauding potential medical breakthroughs and a "new front" for US science free of political ideology.
The president signed an executive order reversing predecessor George W. Bush's ban, which critics say hampered the fight to find treatments for grave diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and diabetes.
Warning that scientists were deserting the United States for other nations, Obama said "medical miracles" come about only through painstaking research and rejected the "false choice" between sound science and moral values.
"When government fails to make these investments, opportunities are missed. Promising avenues go unexplored," he said at a White House ceremony attended by US lawmakers, religious leaders and scientists including three Nobel laureates.
"Ultimately, I cannot guarantee that we will find the treatments and cures we seek. No president can promise that," Obama said.
"But I can promise that we will seek them -- actively, responsibly, and with the urgency required to make up for lost ground," he said, paying tribute to research advocates such as late Superman actor Christopher Reeve.
"Not just by opening up this new front of research today, but by supporting promising research of all kinds, including groundbreaking work to convert ordinary human cells into ones that resemble embryonic stem cells."
Obama directed the National Institutes of Health to formulate guidelines within 120 days on how to proceed with federal research on lines of stem cells procured from private laboratories such as fertility clinics.
His order cannot affect a congressional ban on federal money being used directly to create new stem cells, which are primitive cells from early-stage embryos capable of developing into almost every tissue of the body.
Obama also issued a presidential memorandum "restoring scientific integrity to government decision making."
The memorandum marked another break from the Bush years, after claims the former administration prioritized partisan politics over objective science in climate change, endangered species and family planning.
Obama ordered the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy to ensure that "we base our public policies on the soundest science," and appoint scientific advisors based on expertise and "not their politics or ideology."
He vowed that he would not permit stem cell research to stray into the wilder bounds of science such as human cloning, which he said "has no place in our society, or any society."
But there was still fierce fire from social conservatives and right-to-life groups, who back research on cells taken from human adults rather than embryos.
House of Representatives Republican leader John Boehner said Obama had undermined "protections for innocent life, further dividing our nation at a time when we need greater unity to tackle the challenges before us."
US Catholic Cardinal Justin Rigali called Obama's announcement "a sad victory of politics over science and ethics."
But Reeve Foundation president Peter Wilderotter said: "By removing politics from science, President Obama has freed researchers to explore these remarkable stem cells, learn from them and possibly develop effective therapies using them."
And veteran Democratic Senator Edward Kennedy, who is battling a malignant brain tumor, said Obama had "righted an immense wrong done to the hopes of millions of patients."
"The president's action today unlocks the enormous potential of life-sustaining medical progress against a wide range of serious illnesses and injuries, all within strong ethical guidelines," he said.
Bush barred federal funding from supporting work on new lines of stem cells derived from human embryos in 2001, allowing research only on a small number of embryonic stem cell lines that existed at the time.
The former president argued that using human embryos for scientific research -- which often involves their destruction -- crossed a moral barrier and urged scientists to consider alternatives
Agence France-Presse
First Posted 07:09:00 03/10/2009
Filed Under: Obama Articles, Research & Development, Science & Technology, Health treatment, Diseases, US politics
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama Monday lifted a ban on federal funding for embryonic stem cell research, lauding potential medical breakthroughs and a "new front" for US science free of political ideology.
The president signed an executive order reversing predecessor George W. Bush's ban, which critics say hampered the fight to find treatments for grave diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and diabetes.
Warning that scientists were deserting the United States for other nations, Obama said "medical miracles" come about only through painstaking research and rejected the "false choice" between sound science and moral values.
"When government fails to make these investments, opportunities are missed. Promising avenues go unexplored," he said at a White House ceremony attended by US lawmakers, religious leaders and scientists including three Nobel laureates.
"Ultimately, I cannot guarantee that we will find the treatments and cures we seek. No president can promise that," Obama said.
"But I can promise that we will seek them -- actively, responsibly, and with the urgency required to make up for lost ground," he said, paying tribute to research advocates such as late Superman actor Christopher Reeve.
"Not just by opening up this new front of research today, but by supporting promising research of all kinds, including groundbreaking work to convert ordinary human cells into ones that resemble embryonic stem cells."
Obama directed the National Institutes of Health to formulate guidelines within 120 days on how to proceed with federal research on lines of stem cells procured from private laboratories such as fertility clinics.
His order cannot affect a congressional ban on federal money being used directly to create new stem cells, which are primitive cells from early-stage embryos capable of developing into almost every tissue of the body.
Obama also issued a presidential memorandum "restoring scientific integrity to government decision making."
The memorandum marked another break from the Bush years, after claims the former administration prioritized partisan politics over objective science in climate change, endangered species and family planning.
Obama ordered the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy to ensure that "we base our public policies on the soundest science," and appoint scientific advisors based on expertise and "not their politics or ideology."
He vowed that he would not permit stem cell research to stray into the wilder bounds of science such as human cloning, which he said "has no place in our society, or any society."
But there was still fierce fire from social conservatives and right-to-life groups, who back research on cells taken from human adults rather than embryos.
House of Representatives Republican leader John Boehner said Obama had undermined "protections for innocent life, further dividing our nation at a time when we need greater unity to tackle the challenges before us."
US Catholic Cardinal Justin Rigali called Obama's announcement "a sad victory of politics over science and ethics."
But Reeve Foundation president Peter Wilderotter said: "By removing politics from science, President Obama has freed researchers to explore these remarkable stem cells, learn from them and possibly develop effective therapies using them."
And veteran Democratic Senator Edward Kennedy, who is battling a malignant brain tumor, said Obama had "righted an immense wrong done to the hopes of millions of patients."
"The president's action today unlocks the enormous potential of life-sustaining medical progress against a wide range of serious illnesses and injuries, all within strong ethical guidelines," he said.
Bush barred federal funding from supporting work on new lines of stem cells derived from human embryos in 2001, allowing research only on a small number of embryonic stem cell lines that existed at the time.
The former president argued that using human embryos for scientific research -- which often involves their destruction -- crossed a moral barrier and urged scientists to consider alternatives
Thursday, March 5, 2009
YouTube and Universal Music Are Said to Discuss Deal
SAN FRANCISCO — Google’s YouTube and the Universal Music Group, the world’s largest music label, are in advanced discussions over a licensing agreement that could lead to the creation of a premium site for music videos, according a person briefed on the talks.
The discussions remain fluid and the terms of the agreement, which could not be learned, are still being negotiated. A final deal could still be weeks away, and its terms may be different from those being discussed currently, the person said.
The proposed agreement represent the latest effort by YouTube, the online video service, to attract premium content that might lure higher-priced advertisements. Music videos are among the most popular content on YouTube, but they have failed to produce significant revenue for YouTube or the music labels.
YouTube declined to comment on the talks, but in an e-mail statement it said: “We are always working with our partners to find creative ways to connect music, musicians and fans.”
A spokesman for Universal Music Group, which is owned by Vivendi, could not be reached for comment.
All the major labels have tried to renegotiate licensing agreements with YouTube that were signed in 2006 and 2007.
Music companies have been disappointed with those agreements, which have included a small fee for every video watched and a share of the advertising revenue.
Recently, YouTube added buttons next to some of its videos that fans can click on to buy songs from iTunes or Amazon.com, with a portion of the revenue going to the music labels.
Sony Music Entertainment reached a new agreement with YouTube this year. But discussions with other labels, including Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group and EMI, have dragged on.
In December, Warner Music Group removed its music videos from YouTube saying it “simply cannot accept terms that fail to appropriately and fairly compensate recording artists, songwriters, labels and publishers for the value they provide.”
The proposed agreement between YouTube and Universal Music Group is more sweeping than existing deals and could include the creation of a site that showcases not only music videos, but also other content related to musicians and bands, according to the person briefed on the discussions.
Eric E. Schmidt, Google’s chief executive, alluded to the challenges in hammering out deals with the labels at an investor conference on Tuesday. He said the two sides had disagreed over “how to compensate the music industry for the use of their music in things which are promotional.” Mr. Schmidt said he did not know how the disagreement would be resolved.
The discussions remain fluid and the terms of the agreement, which could not be learned, are still being negotiated. A final deal could still be weeks away, and its terms may be different from those being discussed currently, the person said.
The proposed agreement represent the latest effort by YouTube, the online video service, to attract premium content that might lure higher-priced advertisements. Music videos are among the most popular content on YouTube, but they have failed to produce significant revenue for YouTube or the music labels.
YouTube declined to comment on the talks, but in an e-mail statement it said: “We are always working with our partners to find creative ways to connect music, musicians and fans.”
A spokesman for Universal Music Group, which is owned by Vivendi, could not be reached for comment.
All the major labels have tried to renegotiate licensing agreements with YouTube that were signed in 2006 and 2007.
Music companies have been disappointed with those agreements, which have included a small fee for every video watched and a share of the advertising revenue.
Recently, YouTube added buttons next to some of its videos that fans can click on to buy songs from iTunes or Amazon.com, with a portion of the revenue going to the music labels.
Sony Music Entertainment reached a new agreement with YouTube this year. But discussions with other labels, including Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group and EMI, have dragged on.
In December, Warner Music Group removed its music videos from YouTube saying it “simply cannot accept terms that fail to appropriately and fairly compensate recording artists, songwriters, labels and publishers for the value they provide.”
The proposed agreement between YouTube and Universal Music Group is more sweeping than existing deals and could include the creation of a site that showcases not only music videos, but also other content related to musicians and bands, according to the person briefed on the discussions.
Eric E. Schmidt, Google’s chief executive, alluded to the challenges in hammering out deals with the labels at an investor conference on Tuesday. He said the two sides had disagreed over “how to compensate the music industry for the use of their music in things which are promotional.” Mr. Schmidt said he did not know how the disagreement would be resolved.
Striptease queen returns to Paris
TOURISTS seeking a saucy show will be excited to learn that striptease artist Dita von Teese is returning to one of the most famous nude revues in Paris. Von Teese, renowned as the queen of burlesque, will perform at the Crazy Horse, a unique venue that has been a Paris institution since 1951.
A familiar figure at the Paris couture shows, she has carved a peculiar niche over the years, leading the way as burlesque has grown from simple striptease to becoming an established part of the fashion world.
"I feel that Paris is a place that still appreciates its showgirls," she said.
"I started performing burlesque in 1991 and originally my audience was in strip clubs, pole dancing clubs, fetish clubs and I've watched the way it changed," she said.
Two years ago she emerged from a rhinestone-encrusted bubblebath as the first guest star at the Crazy Horse but the new show will have more specially designed numbers, including two songs she has recorded herself.
"I feel I have to raise the bar," she said.
"I wanted to do something more elaborate this time," she said. "Combine the Crazy Horse style with what I do which is classic American burlesque."
The Crazy Horse regularly draws celebrities like Madonna or fashion designer Jean-Paul Gaultier to see its dancers strut the stage in little more than fluorescent wigs and strobe lights.
Von Teese’s show will run for two weeks, starting from February 1.
Wild life at your door
By Glenn Luders
THE orange flames of the oil lamps danced in the breeze as we slipped off our sandals and clinked our champagne glasses in a toast to our first beachside dinner party.
Just a few hundred metres from our resort, the Novotel Nusa Dua Bali, this protected strip of white sand and gentle waters was like applying a magical de-stress lotion at the start of our family getaway.
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The Novotel has its own private beach, complete with bar and kitchen, and on the menu this night under the stars was a seafood banquet of scallops, salmon, tiger prawns and smoked lobster, plus an array of Indonesian specialties.
When the staff weren't topping up our wine glasses or fetching a cold beer, they were building sand castles with the children, while others set up a band and happily played some reasonable renditions of popular party requests.
Away from the sweat and bustle of Kuta and Legian, Novotel Nusa Dua is unashamedly oriented towards a resort lifestyle and the relaxation that comes with it.
Set in manicured gardens, with wide streets, secured compounds and a community feel, Nusa Dua was established in the 1970s to provide world-class facilities within the island. Its enclave of four and five-star hotels provides just that, with the main cultural, recreational and retail attractions a bus or taxi ride away.
Its environment practices have resulted in several eco-tourism awards, including one for its "Eco Lagoon" in which recycled water irrigates public gardens as well as the grounds of individual hotels.
The algae-producing lagoon encourages fish to breed and tiny frogs to flourish, which in turn attracts birds to the lagoon, a miniature eco-system and a tourist attraction in its own right.
African-style bus trek
From the southeast tip of Bali on the Bukit Peninsula, the area now extends north along Tanjung Benoa. A leisurely 4km walk along the reef-protected beach ends at the fishing village and port of Benoa, while just outside Nusa Dua the village of Bualu has shops and restaurants with prices on a par with those in Kuta.
This holiday was about reading or lazing around, taking a dip in the pool or at the beach, sampling a cocktail in the Blue Bar at the end of the Lagoon Pool, eating, sleeping and mucking around with the children – when the children's club wasn't beckoning, that is.
The Dolfi Kids Club runs every day from 8.30am until 6pm, with activities including nature walks, indoor games, kite flying, arts and crafts, beach games, dance lessons, movies and a host of aquatic thrills.
The service is free and the safety and welfare of the children are paramount.
In the spirit of being adventurous, we stepped out of our comfort zone and headed to the Bali Safari and Marine Park at Gianyar, a 90-minute drive from Nusa Dua, north of Sanur and not far from Denpasar.
We went on an African-style bus trek and saw tigers, lions, white hippos, rhinos, bears, wildebeests and zebras.
There are daily elephant treks and elephant education shows, as well as reptile walks, birds in open aviaries and big aquariums.
On a humid day, the splash and slides of the water park were a welcome sidetrack, as were the outdoor misting fans strategically placed throughout the park.
Lunch at the park's restaurant was a highlight, with huge glass windows overlooking a "savanna" where the kings of the jungle roamed (or lazed underneath a rock on the day we visited).
Within the grounds of the safari and marine park, the Mara River Safari Lodge is definitely for the wild at heart. There are 39 thatched dwellings designed in a spirit of co-existence with the animals.
The services include WiFi broadband access, LCD television, 24-hour room service and a pool (not the one frequented by the hippos).
Another cool expedition in Bali, especially for the very young, very old or for those who don't dive, is sea walking, run by Club Aqua in Sanur.
It is a fully escorted stroll along the bottom of the ocean to a depth of 5m, visiting the sea life for 20 minutes or so without getting your head wet.
The price of about $A110 includes return offshore transfer, refreshments, use of a helmet, towel and booties, dive, lunch and insurance cover.
The underwater team will snap a picture of you in the depths with exotic fish in your face. Prints can be viewed and bought once you have resurfaced.
The writer was a guest of Novotel, which is part of the Accor group, and Jetstar.
From the The Sunday Mail
FEAR. It's not something I usually like to associate with my holidays
But there was no mistaking the feeling churning away in the pit of my stomach. It was genuine fear.
Struggling for each breath at the 4000m altitude, legs feeling like logs from lack of oxygen and aching after days of tough trekking, I was following a narrow, winding and brutally steep yak track on the side of a mountain with what seemed like a sheer vertical drop to the rugged valley thousands of metres below.
And when I thought it couldn't get any worse, suddenly the yak track disappeared.
A landslide had obliterated it. I could see it started up again 10m ahead. But to get back on to it, I would have to scramble over loose rubble on the side of the mountain, with nothing seemingly between me and the abyss below. It did occur to me then that I might die there.
Physical and mental challenges
It was neither the first nor the last time I felt fear on our 12-day trek through the Jugal Himal range in Nepal and perhaps, in retrospect, the Himalayas should not be attempted by those like me who suffer from vertigo.
On the other hand, what we saw and experienced, the physical and mental challenges we overcame, the mind-numbing beauty, the sickness, the wilderness, the danger, the exhilaration and ultimately, the triumph, will live with us forever.
Unlike a lot of tourists to Nepal, we decided to stay clear of the adventure companies, the Annapurna range, the teahouses and crowds that so characterise the Nepal trekking experience for Western tourists.
Instead we booked with a local trekking outfit, More Than Mountain Treks, one of 700 local trekking companies that operate in the country.
Our brief to the company was simple: to trek in an area away from the main trails and tourists where we could meet locals and experience the real Nepal.
True to their word, the company organised just such an experience, a walk to the five sacred lakes at Panch Pokhari.
During the entire 12-day trek we saw only two other westerners – and that was on the first day. In fact, so remote was our route that for seven of the days, it was just our party of five and our dozen porters.
We ate what the porters could carry and camped wherever we could find something resembling flat ground.
We walked through beautiful terraced farms and villages, along spectacular valleys and rugged ridges, past Buddhist shrines and temples, through fir and rhododendron forests, over swing bridges and logs that crossed crashing rivers, past countless spectacular waterfalls, through snow and ice and along tracks that were sometimes wide and gentle, but at other times narrow and demanding great daring. Indeed, on one day we lost the track for a couple of hours, its lack of use, the snow, ice and rugged vegetation all conspiring to conceal it.
Paying the price
We crashed through bush, thistles and thorns, slipped on rocks and ice, froze on some nights and sweated profusely during the heat of the day and either climbed or descended, but never, it seemed, did we walk on flat land.
We were warmly welcomed by the locals we met at the start and end of the trek, marvelled at how they eked out a subsistence existence on the steepest and most hostile of land, negotiated to camp on disused vegetable and rice paddies at the front of their homes, devoured breakfast one morning as we watched a group of men slaughter a sheep and then prepare it for that night's meal and felt slightly embarrassed as we walked past their modest, open homes always followed by loads of curious and laughing children.
However, not all of our interactions with the locals were friendly. On the last day of the trek, only an hour from our finish, we were stopped by a group of opportunistic youths who wouldn't let us pass unless we paid a "toll" to use the track. After a tense stand-off and negotiation, we parted with the equivalent of $30 to continue.
Some of us became sick, we all lost weight and became much fitter. Rarely did we have time to reflect on anything too much. We were totally in the moment and forced to give in to the rhythm of the trek.
And when, after the first five days of climbing we stood at 4500m atop the ridge of Panch Pokhari – with nothing between us and the Jugal Himal range of the mighty Himalayas, with its towering peaks and glaciers spread before us in every direction in all its awe-inspiring majesty, nothing mattered at all. Not fear, tiredness, blisters or sickness.
Just us and the greatest view on earth.
Gandhi glasses sell for $2.77m
AN auction house has sold Indian independence leader Mahatma Gandhi's iconic round glasses and other memorabilia for $US1.8 million ($A2.77 million), defying an order to cancel the sale by the items' owner.
Tony Bedi, bidding on behalf of billionaire Vijay Mallya, said the purchase meant that the revered independence leader's glasses, sandals, pocket watch, and plate and bowl would now return to India.
"Basically he was bidding for the country," Mr Bedi said after the dramatic auction at Antiquorum Auctioneers in New York.
Cheers and clapping broke out when the hammer came down. Indian businessmen and others with links to the country packed the auction room, joining frenzied bidding to ensure that the memorabilia did not go to another country.
However, Mr Mallya's patriotic gesture raised complex legal questions and it was unclear when, or even if the items can be sent to India.
Minutes before the auction the man who says he is the current owner, California-based collector James Otis, declared that he wanted the sale cancelled and the belongings given back to him.
"In the last few hours, I have decided, in the light of the controversy, not to sell Gandhi's personal items," Mr Otis said.
After learning of the auction winner's intention to return the items to India, Mr Otis dropped his objection to the sale.
India had bitterly opposed the auction from the start, insisting that Gandhi's belongings were part of the country's national heritage
Tony Bedi, bidding on behalf of billionaire Vijay Mallya, said the purchase meant that the revered independence leader's glasses, sandals, pocket watch, and plate and bowl would now return to India.
"Basically he was bidding for the country," Mr Bedi said after the dramatic auction at Antiquorum Auctioneers in New York.
Cheers and clapping broke out when the hammer came down. Indian businessmen and others with links to the country packed the auction room, joining frenzied bidding to ensure that the memorabilia did not go to another country.
However, Mr Mallya's patriotic gesture raised complex legal questions and it was unclear when, or even if the items can be sent to India.
Minutes before the auction the man who says he is the current owner, California-based collector James Otis, declared that he wanted the sale cancelled and the belongings given back to him.
"In the last few hours, I have decided, in the light of the controversy, not to sell Gandhi's personal items," Mr Otis said.
After learning of the auction winner's intention to return the items to India, Mr Otis dropped his objection to the sale.
India had bitterly opposed the auction from the start, insisting that Gandhi's belongings were part of the country's national heritage
Singer Chris Brown charged over Rihanna assault
R&B singer Chris Brown has been charged with assault following an alleged attack on his pop-star girlfriend Rihanna in Los Angeles last month, prosecutors said today.
Brown, 19, is to appear in court later today for arraignment on the charges, which came after he allegedly subjected Barbados-born Umbrella singer Rihanna to a beating in the early hours of February 8.
The incident shocked the music world and left Rihanna nursing cuts and bruises to her face, forcing her to cancel a scheduled performance at the Grammy Awards in LA later that day.
Brown is charged with felony counts of assault and making criminal threats, a statement from the LA County District Attorney's office said.
If convicted on all counts, Brown could face a sentence ranging from probation to four years and eight months in state prison, a spokeswoman for the district attorney's office said.
Speculation had mounted over whether Brown would face charges over the incident after he and Rihanna reportedly reconciled over the weekend.
Brown had issued an apology for the incident on February 15, saying he was "sorry and saddened" by the events and that he was seeking the counselling of his pastor, family and friends.
"Words cannot begin to express how sorry and saddened I am over what transpired," Brown said in the statement.
"I am seeking the counseling of my pastor, my mother and other loved ones and I am committed, with God's help, to emerging a better person."
Although the LA Police Department has steadfastly refused to divulge specifics in the case, several details of Brown's alleged attack have since leaked into the media.
Fox 11 News in LA reported it had obtained a copy of a detectives' affidavit that described in graphic detail how Brown had attacked his girlfriend as they drove home from a party in Brown's rented Lamborghini.
The affidavit said the attack was triggered after Rihanna had read out a text message from an unidentified woman found on Brown's phone.
The singer reportedly slammed Rihanna's head against the window of the car before repeatedly punching and biting her.
When Rihanna called her assistant to alert police, Brown raged: "You did the stupidest thing ever. I'm going to kill you" before putting the singer in a headlock so severe she nearly lost consciousness, according to the report.
Evidence enough to build case
Rihanna's blood-soaked dress is among the evidence being investigated by police for their case against Chris Brown.
The 21-year-old singer's $11,000 Gucci garment has been handed over to the LA District Attorney's office following Brown's alleged attack on Rihanna on February 8.
A source said: "The police took Rihanna's dress into evidence because it had bloodstains on it."
The LAPD has refused to comment on the claims.
Rihanna is believed to have requested an emergency protection order just hours after the alleged assault, to prevent Brown from contacting her. The order expired after five days.
Santa Monica-based criminal defence attorney Alec Rose said: "It is standard practice for police to ask the domestic violence victim at the scene of the attack whether they would like an emergency protective order keeping the attacker away."
Brown was charged with making criminal threats and released on $50,000 bail following the incident and is due to attend an arraignment in LA today.
Rihanna reportedly told police he beat her and choked her until she was unconscious.
It has previously been reported Brown's rented Lamborghini - were the altercation took place - had traces of blood in it when it was impounded by police.
Meanwhile, reports claim Brown's attorney are conducting talks with the District Attorney which could see him enter a plea bargain in a bid to avoid going to prison.
The case was handed to the District Attorney yesterday, and Brown's lawyer Mark Geragos has been discussing the matter with prosecutors since Monday.
It has been suggested his legal team want to strike a deal which would see him remain free if he pleads guilty to a misdemeanour, although it is unknown whether prosecutors are willing to compromise.
Rihanna did not file charges against Brown and the pair are believed to have married in secret at rapper P. Diddy's Miami mansion.
A source said: "Rihanna never had any intention of ending it with Chris. It's partly because she cares about him a lot. But another big part is that she can't bear the thought of him with another girl."
Brown, 19, is to appear in court later today for arraignment on the charges, which came after he allegedly subjected Barbados-born Umbrella singer Rihanna to a beating in the early hours of February 8.
The incident shocked the music world and left Rihanna nursing cuts and bruises to her face, forcing her to cancel a scheduled performance at the Grammy Awards in LA later that day.
Brown is charged with felony counts of assault and making criminal threats, a statement from the LA County District Attorney's office said.
If convicted on all counts, Brown could face a sentence ranging from probation to four years and eight months in state prison, a spokeswoman for the district attorney's office said.
Speculation had mounted over whether Brown would face charges over the incident after he and Rihanna reportedly reconciled over the weekend.
Brown had issued an apology for the incident on February 15, saying he was "sorry and saddened" by the events and that he was seeking the counselling of his pastor, family and friends.
"Words cannot begin to express how sorry and saddened I am over what transpired," Brown said in the statement.
"I am seeking the counseling of my pastor, my mother and other loved ones and I am committed, with God's help, to emerging a better person."
Although the LA Police Department has steadfastly refused to divulge specifics in the case, several details of Brown's alleged attack have since leaked into the media.
Fox 11 News in LA reported it had obtained a copy of a detectives' affidavit that described in graphic detail how Brown had attacked his girlfriend as they drove home from a party in Brown's rented Lamborghini.
The affidavit said the attack was triggered after Rihanna had read out a text message from an unidentified woman found on Brown's phone.
The singer reportedly slammed Rihanna's head against the window of the car before repeatedly punching and biting her.
When Rihanna called her assistant to alert police, Brown raged: "You did the stupidest thing ever. I'm going to kill you" before putting the singer in a headlock so severe she nearly lost consciousness, according to the report.
Evidence enough to build case
Rihanna's blood-soaked dress is among the evidence being investigated by police for their case against Chris Brown.
The 21-year-old singer's $11,000 Gucci garment has been handed over to the LA District Attorney's office following Brown's alleged attack on Rihanna on February 8.
A source said: "The police took Rihanna's dress into evidence because it had bloodstains on it."
The LAPD has refused to comment on the claims.
Rihanna is believed to have requested an emergency protection order just hours after the alleged assault, to prevent Brown from contacting her. The order expired after five days.
Santa Monica-based criminal defence attorney Alec Rose said: "It is standard practice for police to ask the domestic violence victim at the scene of the attack whether they would like an emergency protective order keeping the attacker away."
Brown was charged with making criminal threats and released on $50,000 bail following the incident and is due to attend an arraignment in LA today.
Rihanna reportedly told police he beat her and choked her until she was unconscious.
It has previously been reported Brown's rented Lamborghini - were the altercation took place - had traces of blood in it when it was impounded by police.
Meanwhile, reports claim Brown's attorney are conducting talks with the District Attorney which could see him enter a plea bargain in a bid to avoid going to prison.
The case was handed to the District Attorney yesterday, and Brown's lawyer Mark Geragos has been discussing the matter with prosecutors since Monday.
It has been suggested his legal team want to strike a deal which would see him remain free if he pleads guilty to a misdemeanour, although it is unknown whether prosecutors are willing to compromise.
Rihanna did not file charges against Brown and the pair are believed to have married in secret at rapper P. Diddy's Miami mansion.
A source said: "Rihanna never had any intention of ending it with Chris. It's partly because she cares about him a lot. But another big part is that she can't bear the thought of him with another girl."
Michael Jackson in concert comeback
POP megastar Michael Jackson announced today he will play a series of comeback concerts in London in July, his first major shows for over a decade.
Four years after his infamous child abuse trial, the 50-year-old eccentric singer confirmed he will play 10 gigs at the giant London O2 arena starting on July 8.
"I'll be performing the songs my fans want to hear," Jackson said at London's O2 Arena where thousands of screaming fans had gathered.
"This is the final curtain call and I'll see you in July," said Jackson, wearing sunglasses and a black jacket with silver sequins as hundreds of fans, some holding placards proclaiming "Michael We Love You" screamed with delight.
Reports suggest the 50-year-old could make tens of millions of dollars from the residency-style string of London concerts, helping pay legal bills and debts racked up since the collapse of the abuse trial against him in 2005.
If they are successful, the London concerts would be a spectacular return for Jackson, who dominated the pop world with hit albums like Thriller and Bad in the 1980s but has virtually vanished from public view since his trial.
The O2, formerly the much-maligned Millennium Dome, has transformed itself into a leading concert venue, notably hosting a comeback gig by legendary rockers Led Zeppelin and a 21-night residency by Prince in 2007.
Jackson is reportedly close to completing his first new album since 2001, and has collaborated with a younger generation of stars like rapper Kanye West.
But he has been dogged by rumours of ill health and bookmakers William Hill are already offering 5-1 odds that, should the London concerts go ahead, he will not turn up on the first night.
However, the Daily Mirror reported today that Jackson had passed 50 health tests set by insurers to prove he was fit enough to perform.
Jackson last performed in Britain at the 2006 World Music Awards, where he sang a few lines of We Are The World.
His last official tour was the 1996-7 HIStory World Tour, although he has played one-off gigs since.
The singer became a phenomenally successful star, first with the Jackson Five alongside his brothers and then as a solo artist.
His fame led him to withdraw into a private world at his Neverland ranch in California and he underwent a physical transformation, his skin lightening and his face showing signs of plastic surgery. He has denied undergoing cosmetic surgery.
Jackson's career hit trouble in 1993 when a 13-year-old boy made sex abuse allegations against him and prosecutors and police launched an investigation.
A year later, Jackson reached an out-of-court settlement with the boy's family, paying out $US23.3 million ($35.9 million) and the criminal case was dramatically stopped. Jackson says he now regrets the payment.
Even as Jackson made the announcement in London, another argument erupted back in California: the star's production company said it had filed a lawsuit aiming to halt a planned auction of his belongings next month.
An array of treasures from the singer's Neverland Ranch, ranging from his white-jewelled glove to the gates of the ranch, are among more than 2000 items due to be sold by Julien's Auctions in Hollywood.
But MJJ Productions claimed in a Los Angeles Superior Court lawsuit filed yesterday that certain "priceless and irreplaceable" items due to go under the hammer on April 22-25 had "extraordinary sentimental value".
The auction house's executive director Martin Nolan said today he was stunned by the lawsuit in a radio interview in Ireland, where items from the upcoming sale are on display.
Sex toy industry poised to boom in Australia
By Lanai Vasek NEWS.com.au
IT'S a dilemma: What to do when an 80-year-old couple say they want to spice up their sex life and need some help.
And it's one adult retailer Ian Conway-Powell faced when two customers entered his “Simply Risqué” store in the NSW rural town of Wagga Wagga last year.
“The husband said ‘I’ve had prostate cancer and nothing works anymore – but my wife shouldn’t suffer – so we need a hand,’” said Mr Conway-Powell.
“Six weeks later the wife popped in to tell us she’d never had so much fun, and a couple of months after that she was in again to get another batch of toys because she’d worn out all the others,” he said.
Sex-toy sales have skyrocketed in the US as consumers look for cheaper ways to stay entertained on a tight budget - and experts suggest the same boom is set to hit Down Under.
“You might not be able to do dinner and a movie but you can certainly hire a sexy film and make your own fun,” says Fiona Patten, Chief Executive of the Eros Association, representing Australian adult retail and entertainment companies.
“I get at least 3 calls a week from people interested in setting up their own adult store.”
But despite the lure of big bucks, the industry isn't for everyone, according to Mr Conway-Powell.
“If you’re sexually uptight about anything - forget it,” he said.
Other must-haves include good people skills, a proven ability to communicate well, an open mind and vast sexual knowledge.
“We don’t employ any casual staff under the age of 35, because any younger and you simply don’t have enough hands on experience,” said Mr Conway-Powell.
“It’s an extremely lucrative industry. I used to be a bricklayer and I looked at the potential, assessed the turnover figures and knew it was right for me,” he said.
Here’s what you need to get started.
1. Know the law
Regulations surrounding the adult industry vary from state to state and getting to know what you can and can’t do should be your first point of call.
“It amazes me how many people don’t know it’s actually illegal to sell an X rated film in most Australian states,” says Ms Patten.
“And we’re only talking Debbie does Dallas – nothing extremely hardcore.”
2. Speak to an expert
Consulting an expert in the industry before you open your doors is a must.
“Eros is the only .org for adult retailers but there are general organisations such as the Chamber of Commerce and the Retailer's Association that may provide advocacy and information to the adult industry,” Ms Patten says.
“People are becoming more open with their sexuality, and interest in the industry is definitely growing.”
3. Pick a place
“Be sensible and realistic when choosing a location for your business,” says Ms Patten.
Schools and churches are obviously not the best neighbours for an adult retailer.
“If you’re going to be successful then you need to think about the sensitivities of your customers and the local community – and some people are going to want to be discreet,” Ms Patten says.
4. Apply for a licence
Again the legislation surrounding this varies from state to state but in most cases you’ll need a licence from your local council before you can turn up the heat.
“Often someone in the community will oppose your application, but you can always appeal – and 95 per cent of these are successful,” Ms Patten says.
5. Get some gear
Searching around for the right products and wholesalers before you open your doors could make or break your business.
“Do some personal research – try the products out yourself. You wouldn’t run a bakery without tasting the cakes first - the same thing applies to the adult industry.”
“Sexpo is a great start,” according to Ms Patten.
Sexpo attracts more than 200,000 Aussies each year, making it Australia’s largest trade show.
“It’s a perfect way to meet other people in the industry and get to know quality wholesalers,” Ms Patten says.
6. Get buzzing
It’s all about cheap thrills – sex is a good thing, a fun thing,” Ms Patten says.
“We all need sex and that’s never going to change – recession or no recession.”
IT'S a dilemma: What to do when an 80-year-old couple say they want to spice up their sex life and need some help.
And it's one adult retailer Ian Conway-Powell faced when two customers entered his “Simply Risqué” store in the NSW rural town of Wagga Wagga last year.
“The husband said ‘I’ve had prostate cancer and nothing works anymore – but my wife shouldn’t suffer – so we need a hand,’” said Mr Conway-Powell.
“Six weeks later the wife popped in to tell us she’d never had so much fun, and a couple of months after that she was in again to get another batch of toys because she’d worn out all the others,” he said.
Sex-toy sales have skyrocketed in the US as consumers look for cheaper ways to stay entertained on a tight budget - and experts suggest the same boom is set to hit Down Under.
“You might not be able to do dinner and a movie but you can certainly hire a sexy film and make your own fun,” says Fiona Patten, Chief Executive of the Eros Association, representing Australian adult retail and entertainment companies.
“I get at least 3 calls a week from people interested in setting up their own adult store.”
But despite the lure of big bucks, the industry isn't for everyone, according to Mr Conway-Powell.
“If you’re sexually uptight about anything - forget it,” he said.
Other must-haves include good people skills, a proven ability to communicate well, an open mind and vast sexual knowledge.
“We don’t employ any casual staff under the age of 35, because any younger and you simply don’t have enough hands on experience,” said Mr Conway-Powell.
“It’s an extremely lucrative industry. I used to be a bricklayer and I looked at the potential, assessed the turnover figures and knew it was right for me,” he said.
Here’s what you need to get started.
1. Know the law
Regulations surrounding the adult industry vary from state to state and getting to know what you can and can’t do should be your first point of call.
“It amazes me how many people don’t know it’s actually illegal to sell an X rated film in most Australian states,” says Ms Patten.
“And we’re only talking Debbie does Dallas – nothing extremely hardcore.”
2. Speak to an expert
Consulting an expert in the industry before you open your doors is a must.
“Eros is the only .org for adult retailers but there are general organisations such as the Chamber of Commerce and the Retailer's Association that may provide advocacy and information to the adult industry,” Ms Patten says.
“People are becoming more open with their sexuality, and interest in the industry is definitely growing.”
3. Pick a place
“Be sensible and realistic when choosing a location for your business,” says Ms Patten.
Schools and churches are obviously not the best neighbours for an adult retailer.
“If you’re going to be successful then you need to think about the sensitivities of your customers and the local community – and some people are going to want to be discreet,” Ms Patten says.
4. Apply for a licence
Again the legislation surrounding this varies from state to state but in most cases you’ll need a licence from your local council before you can turn up the heat.
“Often someone in the community will oppose your application, but you can always appeal – and 95 per cent of these are successful,” Ms Patten says.
5. Get some gear
Searching around for the right products and wholesalers before you open your doors could make or break your business.
“Do some personal research – try the products out yourself. You wouldn’t run a bakery without tasting the cakes first - the same thing applies to the adult industry.”
“Sexpo is a great start,” according to Ms Patten.
Sexpo attracts more than 200,000 Aussies each year, making it Australia’s largest trade show.
“It’s a perfect way to meet other people in the industry and get to know quality wholesalers,” Ms Patten says.
6. Get buzzing
It’s all about cheap thrills – sex is a good thing, a fun thing,” Ms Patten says.
“We all need sex and that’s never going to change – recession or no recession.”
Australian entrepreneurial spirits stay up despite crisis
By Sara Rich The Australian
AUSTRALIAN entrepreneurs are some of the most optimistic in the world, surpassing the US, Japan and Britain for their positive outlook on the year ahead, a survey has shown.
The 2009 Grant Thornton International Business Report found that despite the global financial crisis, 46 per cent of privately held businesses in Australia were bullish on the domestic economy, The Australian reports.
This places the nation as the 10th most optimistic economy in the report, well ahead of the US (22nd), Britain (27th) and Japan, the most pessimistic nation in the 36-country study.
India has the most optimistic business owners, with the emerging economy scoring an optimism rating of 83 per cent, compared to the global average of -16 per cent.
In Australia, 80 per cent of entrepreneurs believe their turnover will increase this year, or at the very least stay the same, with two-thirds expecting to achieve similar or higher profits to 2008.
In light of this positive outlook, 39 per cent planned to increase investment in plants and machinery this year.
Grant Thornton Australia national head of privately held business Tony Markwell said entrepreneurs had an advantage over listed companies in times of commercial stress.
"They can move quickly and decisively to exploit changing economic conditions because they're smaller and have fewer stakeholders.
"Defensive action in the short term may be necessary, but we're telling our clients to hold their nerve and get a strategic plan in place for what could be a very productive new marketplace.''
But Australia's optimism rating of 11 per cent is less than a sixth of that at the same time last year. Optimism around the world has slumped by 56 per cent in the past 12 months.
"Last year two-thirds of businesses across Australia told us they were positive about the 12 months ahead of them, now that figure has fallen to just under half nationally, and to a third in NSW and Queensland,'' Mr Markwell said.
"With such an unprecedented pressure on the marketplace, it's inevitable that firms will be feeling the strain, but the right attitude is critical in weathering the storm.
"Sound business planning and financial management, alongside ongoing support from government, should help businesses steer a steady path through the next 12 months.''
AUSTRALIAN entrepreneurs are some of the most optimistic in the world, surpassing the US, Japan and Britain for their positive outlook on the year ahead, a survey has shown.
The 2009 Grant Thornton International Business Report found that despite the global financial crisis, 46 per cent of privately held businesses in Australia were bullish on the domestic economy, The Australian reports.
This places the nation as the 10th most optimistic economy in the report, well ahead of the US (22nd), Britain (27th) and Japan, the most pessimistic nation in the 36-country study.
India has the most optimistic business owners, with the emerging economy scoring an optimism rating of 83 per cent, compared to the global average of -16 per cent.
In Australia, 80 per cent of entrepreneurs believe their turnover will increase this year, or at the very least stay the same, with two-thirds expecting to achieve similar or higher profits to 2008.
In light of this positive outlook, 39 per cent planned to increase investment in plants and machinery this year.
Grant Thornton Australia national head of privately held business Tony Markwell said entrepreneurs had an advantage over listed companies in times of commercial stress.
"They can move quickly and decisively to exploit changing economic conditions because they're smaller and have fewer stakeholders.
"Defensive action in the short term may be necessary, but we're telling our clients to hold their nerve and get a strategic plan in place for what could be a very productive new marketplace.''
But Australia's optimism rating of 11 per cent is less than a sixth of that at the same time last year. Optimism around the world has slumped by 56 per cent in the past 12 months.
"Last year two-thirds of businesses across Australia told us they were positive about the 12 months ahead of them, now that figure has fallen to just under half nationally, and to a third in NSW and Queensland,'' Mr Markwell said.
"With such an unprecedented pressure on the marketplace, it's inevitable that firms will be feeling the strain, but the right attitude is critical in weathering the storm.
"Sound business planning and financial management, alongside ongoing support from government, should help businesses steer a steady path through the next 12 months.''
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Bachelor’s’ e-mails with Melissa revealed
As the fallout from ABC’s surprising “Bachelor” finale continues, Access Hollywood has uncovered personal e-mails between Jason Mesnick and Melissa Rycroft, Mesnick’s reality show fiancee who he dumped on national TV.
In the first of several e-mails, Rycroft expressed her frustration to Mesnick following the taping of the “After the Rose” special (taped in mid January), which saw Mesnick break off his engagement with Rycroft and opt for a second chance at love with the previously dumped Molly Malaney.
And while Mesnick’s change of heart might have been a shock to viewers, it appears Rycroft may have seen it coming
“Last night didn’t go NEAR how I thought… I still can’t believe how you can’t give reasons other than ‘It changed.’… You know as well as I do that you didn’t give 100 percent to me or the relationship. And I don’t understand how you can walk away form something without giving it your all,” she wrote in the e-mail dated Jan. 19. “But I am walking away knowing I did.”
In her initial e-mail after the taping, it seems Rycroft already also had a good idea about Mesnick’s feelings for Malaney prior to Mesnick’s TV confession.
“And getting confirmation about Molly in front of people like that was a complete classless move if you ask me — how could you do that to me after I repeatedly asked you about it? I’m not stupid, I knew about Molly… and you lied to me about it,” she wrote. “I can’t even tell you how much respect I lost for you… but it makes this whole process from here on out much easier for me.”
In an interview with People following Monday’s finale, Mesnick insisted he had no choice in how the situation played out, claiming it was “part of the deal” in his contract — a sentiment echoed in his reply e-mail to Rycroft.
“The producers had a lot to do with it. I am so sorry. This is so horrible,” Mesnick wrote.
Yet, Rycroft didn’t seem to be buying her former fiance’s reasoning.
“You are a grown man and perfectly capable of making your own decisions,” she replied in a subsequent e-mail. “Own your actions and stop blaming this process.”
In a later e-mail, dated Jan. 21, Mesnick answered Rycroft’s note, even going as far as to say he had suffered karmic retribution for calling off the engagement.
“You don’t deserve any of it at all. I wish there were more that I could say. I want to take all of your pain away and put it on me,” he replied. “If you are talking about karma, I slipped and fell and had a huge gash in my leg 3 inches wide and to the bone. I deserve so much worse for what I am doing to you.”
And in the final e-mail uncovered by Access between the two, also dated Jan. 21, Rycroft harkened back to Mesnick being dumped by “Bachelorette” DeAnna Pappas prior to his run as the “Bachelor.”
More from Access Hollywood
Photo gallery: Reality stars
Video: 'Bachelor' finale shocker
Video: Scenes from 'The Bachelor' finale
“I do think it’s a little ironic that you kept telling me, ‘Morally, how could I ever get back with DeAnna after what she did to me?’ And I agree… just seems like a very similar situation with your new lady… Just a little irony I guess,” Rycroft wrote. “Seeing the person that you became, you are right: a relationship between you and I would never work out… I’m not mad… I’m not hurt – seeing how things were handled helped me get over things quickly.
“I do wish you both the best though. Take care,” Rycroft wrote.
Copyright 2009 by NBC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed
In the first of several e-mails, Rycroft expressed her frustration to Mesnick following the taping of the “After the Rose” special (taped in mid January), which saw Mesnick break off his engagement with Rycroft and opt for a second chance at love with the previously dumped Molly Malaney.
And while Mesnick’s change of heart might have been a shock to viewers, it appears Rycroft may have seen it coming
“Last night didn’t go NEAR how I thought… I still can’t believe how you can’t give reasons other than ‘It changed.’… You know as well as I do that you didn’t give 100 percent to me or the relationship. And I don’t understand how you can walk away form something without giving it your all,” she wrote in the e-mail dated Jan. 19. “But I am walking away knowing I did.”
In her initial e-mail after the taping, it seems Rycroft already also had a good idea about Mesnick’s feelings for Malaney prior to Mesnick’s TV confession.
“And getting confirmation about Molly in front of people like that was a complete classless move if you ask me — how could you do that to me after I repeatedly asked you about it? I’m not stupid, I knew about Molly… and you lied to me about it,” she wrote. “I can’t even tell you how much respect I lost for you… but it makes this whole process from here on out much easier for me.”
In an interview with People following Monday’s finale, Mesnick insisted he had no choice in how the situation played out, claiming it was “part of the deal” in his contract — a sentiment echoed in his reply e-mail to Rycroft.
“The producers had a lot to do with it. I am so sorry. This is so horrible,” Mesnick wrote.
Yet, Rycroft didn’t seem to be buying her former fiance’s reasoning.
“You are a grown man and perfectly capable of making your own decisions,” she replied in a subsequent e-mail. “Own your actions and stop blaming this process.”
In a later e-mail, dated Jan. 21, Mesnick answered Rycroft’s note, even going as far as to say he had suffered karmic retribution for calling off the engagement.
“You don’t deserve any of it at all. I wish there were more that I could say. I want to take all of your pain away and put it on me,” he replied. “If you are talking about karma, I slipped and fell and had a huge gash in my leg 3 inches wide and to the bone. I deserve so much worse for what I am doing to you.”
And in the final e-mail uncovered by Access between the two, also dated Jan. 21, Rycroft harkened back to Mesnick being dumped by “Bachelorette” DeAnna Pappas prior to his run as the “Bachelor.”
More from Access Hollywood
Photo gallery: Reality stars
Video: 'Bachelor' finale shocker
Video: Scenes from 'The Bachelor' finale
“I do think it’s a little ironic that you kept telling me, ‘Morally, how could I ever get back with DeAnna after what she did to me?’ And I agree… just seems like a very similar situation with your new lady… Just a little irony I guess,” Rycroft wrote. “Seeing the person that you became, you are right: a relationship between you and I would never work out… I’m not mad… I’m not hurt – seeing how things were handled helped me get over things quickly.
“I do wish you both the best though. Take care,” Rycroft wrote.
Copyright 2009 by NBC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed
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