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February 20, 2012

An Israeli official has described 63-day Palestinian hunger striker Khader Adnan as an ?Islamic Jihad terrorist? without producing any evidence to prove his claim.

Adnan, a 33-year-old baker, has been on hunger strike since shortly after he was detained in a late-night raid on December 17.

He is being held under what Israeli law calls administrative detention, meaning he can be held without trial or charges indefinitely.

The case has drawn widespread condemnation of the Israeli policy, with rights groups urging the Jewish state to release Adnan or charge him with an offense.

But Ofir Gendelman, the Israeli Prime Minister?s spokesman to the Arab media, provoked anger by calling Adnan an ?Islamic Jihad terrorist? on Twitter.

He also said that Israel should not release Adnan as he would ?kill our kids.?

Ofir Gendelman
@ofirgendelman

#khaderadnan is an Islamic Jihad terrorist. This organization is outlawed in US,EU,UK. A terrorist on a hunger strike is still a terrorist.

Ofir Gendelman
@ofirgendelman

Those who call on Israel to release #khaderadnan, an Islamic Jihad terrorist, so he could kill our kids, wouldn?t want him near their kids

Gendelman?s comment provoked a barrage of criticism, with Yousef Munayyer, Executive Director of the Palestine Center in Washington urging him to produce evidence of the claims.

Yousef Munayyer
@YousefMunayyer

.@ofirgendelman if there?s evidence, charge him and try him, if not, release him. I know these democratic norms may seem foreign to you

Under Israel?s military law, prisoners can be held in administrative detention for up to six months without charge or trial. The detention can be renewed at the end of the period, effectively allowing Israel to hold Palestinians in jail indefinitely.

Israel claims that Adnan is a threat to public safety, but has yet to produce any evidence for the claim, while Adnan?s lawyers have been unable to view the evidence on which he is detained.

A local rights group, al-Haq, said 315 Palestinians were being held under the edict.

Amnesty International has condemned his continued detention, calling on Israel to either charge or release him.

Human Rights Watch has argued that withholding reasons for arrest constitute a violation of international law.

?Israels international legal obligations, however, require it to inform those arrested of the reasons for the arrest at the time, to promptly inform them of any charges against them and to bring them before a judge,? the rights-group said in a press release.

Adnans family, his lawyer, and doctors from an Israeli rights group have warned that his health has deteriorated seriously, with a high risk of organ failure, and that Israeli authorities had shackled him to his hospital bed.

An Israeli court on Saturday decided that Khader?s final appeal will not be held until Thursday morning, despite hearing that his health is entering a critical phase.

Adnan is now in serious danger of dying before the trial, according to a doctor?s report read out in the court.

The Israeli High Court of Justice was provided with a detailed medical report from the Physicians for Human Rights on Saturday.

The report declared that Adnan, who would be in the 68th day of his fast by Thursday, ?is in immediate danger of death,? and that ?a fast in excess of 70 days does not permit survival.?

However, the judge ruled that there was no cause to move the date forward and confirmed the trial date.

The prisoners? rights group Addameer condemned the decision to delay the appeal until Thursday.

?We regret that in light of this crucial medical report, the pressure exerted by the local and international community, including the statements of High Representative of the European Union Catherine Ashton, United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Robert Serry, and United Nations Special Rapporteur on Palestinian Human Rights Richard Falk have been met with a delay in appointing the petitions hearing by Israels High Court of Justice,? a statement from the group said.

Khader?s pregnant wife Randa described his condition on Saturday, saying he was close to death.

?His life is in danger, but praise be to God he has a strong will and very high spirits. No one believes that he is still conscious and able to speak,? she said. ?He is fading away and his eyes are sunken.?

Last week thousands of Palestinians rallied in Gaza and the West Bank in support of Adnan, who the Israelis accuse of being a member of Islamic Jihad.

The appeal at the High Court is the final opportunity for Adnan to be released.

Infamous Irish hunger striker Bobby Sands died after 66 days of refusing food in opposition to British colonial rule.

(Al-Akhbar)

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Source: http://ajudaparamim.info/1980/uruknet-info-news-politics-culture-society-economy/

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Voyager set to make a splash in 2012 with new ... - Travel - EzineMark

Voyager.com is the ideal place for a school adventure. This kid?s adventure holiday site will give pupils the opportunity to get involved in a number of adventure sports from surfing and kayaking to snorkelling and white water rafting.

There are a number of exciting and innovative school adventure packages to choose from and feature a wealth of water sports. These are all taught by their experienced staff that has a number of years training and coaching as well as instructing in these particular disciplines.

They have a number of kids adventure holiday locations across Europe from Argeles sur Mer, Ardeche and Andalucia to Murcia and the French Alps.

The French Alps excursions are considered to be some of the most popular tours that this company offers.

This is because there is a lot of beautiful scenery to take advantage of due to its location.

The Alps is a mountain range of beauty and not only do you have the chance to explore the sheer beauty of the landscape but pupils will also have the opportunity to take part in other mountain adventure travel tours.

Some of their most popular scenic destinations include the picturesque Haute Savoie area. This is meant to be of the toughest and yet exhilarating adventure experience that this company offers. You will need to book early though as this is an extremely popular location and reservations are usually taken months in advance.

The other alpine tours that voyager.com provide takes you to the outstanding town of Megeve.

This can be reached very easily thanks to the AutoRoute from Calais where you will have the chance to enjoy the undulating scenery of this stunning mountain village. It is also famed for providing a wealth of exciting sports and adventure excursions.

There are a range of activities to suit all ages and experts are on hand to guide you all the way. Some of the most extreme sports you will be able to do if you venture to this location include high ropes, canoeing, windsurfing and mountain biking.

If you are that bit more daring then you can take on the challenge of having a guided mountain walk to bask in the glorious countryside and mountains which is well worth doing.

The Haute Savoie area of France also provides a wonderful backdrop for curriculum based activities and excursions.

This includes a range of topics and subjects that are tailored more for those who are studying Geography, History and Modern Languages. Furthermore there are additional advantages that feature good transport links due to its proximity to the motorway.

Source: http://travel.ezinemark.com/voyager-set-to-make-a-splash-in-2012-with-new-water-sports-centre-7d340ca1f8fe.html

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Sea lion test to probe declines

17 February 2012 Last updated at 07:03 ET By Pallab Ghosh Science correspondent, BBC News, Vancouver

Professor Andrew Trites from the University of British Columbia talks about the study of sea lions

Canadian researchers have trained sea lions to take part in an experiment designed to find out why the species is dying out.

The team strapped cameras and tracking equipment onto endangered Steller sea lions to see how they dived for food.

Early results from the project indicate that overfishing might not be the main factor in their decline as had previously been thought.

Male Steller sea lions measure 3m (10ft) and weigh more than 950kg.

This makes them the biggest of all sea lions.

These marine mammals once thrived on the shores of the North Pacific ocean. Now their numbers have dwindled to around 100,000. But no one knows why they are dying out.

To investigate why, Prof Andrew Trites, a marine mammal specialist from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, has recruited some of them to help him with his experiments.

Sea lions are well known for their ability to learn tricks. But with the help of trainers from Vancouver Aquarium, Prof Trites has trained four females to follow voice commands and hand gestures that enable them to take part in scientific experiments.

"The Steller sea lions are rare in the wild and even rarer in captivity," explained Professor Trites. "In order to get into their heads you need access to them 24-hours-a-day and that's what we have here."

It's the first time that sea lions have been used in this way. They have been trained for the project since they were pups 15 years ago. According to one of the trainers, Troy Neil, it has been a long, hard process.

"It's not been easy. It's taken a lot of time and patience. At times it feels I've been spending more time with them than my family," he joked.

His equally dedicated colleague, Nigel Walker, agrees: "Sometimes I forget it's not normal to hang out with 500lb seals."

Then, to prove the point, one of the sea lions raises herself on her hindquarters, approaches Mr Walker and plants a firm kiss on his lips.

These seals seem happy in their scientific work.

Once the seals are fitted with their sensors, they are taken out to open water on their own personal speed boat, the Steller Shuttle.

They speed into the breathtaking fjords of British Columbia, where the icy waters are more than a mile deep. It is the perfect place to study how these animals hunts for food.

The Steller Shuttle reaches its destination - a small research platform. One of the sea lions, Hazy, eagerly dives into the still waters and, as instructed, makes her way into an enclosure which serves as a kind of underwater laboratory.

On the platform, researchers push pieces of fish down a pipe that goes right to the bottom of the water. Then Hazy is told to dive deep into the water.

Her sensors measure precisely the amount of energy she uses as she speeds down to catch the fish.

She is equipped with a camera so that the researchers witness the transformation from a playful seal to a speeding torpedo.

The research team has discovered that it is much harder for her to feed close to the surface - a possible clue to why her kind is dying out.

Another early result from these experiments, according to Professor Trites, is that these mammals are suffering because they may be eating the wrong kind of food.

"It's called the junk food hypothesis," he told BBC News. "These animals need oily fish such as herring, sand eels and salmon to thrive. But instead they are eating pollock and the animals are full before they get enough calories."

For the first time, researchers are looking at the world through the eyes of Stellar sea lions to see if they can reverse the decline of these magnificent creatures.

Follow Pallab on Twitter

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/int/news/-/news/science-environment-17051429

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Jeremy Lin | Genuine Artikle

The particular trend that?s Jeremy Lin have virtually not any let up. Each recreation each and every seemingly better plus more remarkable than the previous the actual story regarding Jeremy Maya Lin grows. Its very in contrast to anything sporting activities provides seen prior to. Possibly only throughout Olympic games possess sports sportsmen also ended up thus able to go up in order to be able for you to help stardom relatively overnight. But, once the Olympics end, thus will their own superlegend. But just what exactly of Jeremy Lin? Exactly just precisely what exactly seems certain is always that JLin and also linsanity is here to stay in some form a minimum of. There will now permanently be considered a big contingent associated with enthusiasts who stick to and revere him or her. And also hes attained that much a minimum of. In a category where every one of the biggest stars are usually McDs All Americans, Lins tale is actually relatable and impressive. Lin Country to improve to cultivate.

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Source: http://genuineartikle.com/sports-and-recreation/jeremy-lin/

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Canadian PM Shills Alberta Oil Sands in China

Canadian Conservative Prime Minister Stephen Harper is in the midst of an official visit to China.

His mission?

To convince Beijing's mandarins to buy Canada's Alberta oil sands hydrocarbon production, now that Republican Congressional overreach has effectively sidelined the Keystone XL pipeline, designed to transit the oil to U.S. Gulf of Mexico refineries, for the foreseeable future.

Harper faces an uphill struggle, as China is questioning the delays in implementing the Northern Gateway pipeline, to transit Alberta's oil to Canada's western coast for transshipment to China.

Complicating the picture, Harper has a weak hand of cards, and both he and the Chinese know it.

Since 1967 oil sands have been under development in Alberta, and investments there now exceed $97 billion.

Where to go?

Not unreasonably, Ottawa looked southwards, as according to the U.S. Energy Administration Canada is now the leading exporter of oil to the United States, providing 2.6 million barrels per day (mbpd) of the 9.03 mbpd the U.S. imports every day.

With the Keystone XL pipeline offline for the foreseeable future, Canada hopes that China will pick up the slack, but the slow pace of development of the $5.5 billion, 730-mile Northern Gateway pipeline has raised concerns in Beijing.

Enbridge chief executive officer Pat Daniel, accompanying Harper on his visit to Beijing said, "They're frustrated, as we are, in the length of time it takes. They're very anxious to diversify their supply, they're very dependent on the Middle East for crude. (Canada) seems like the perfect match that should last a long time, but if you don't move it along, people do lose interest. We don't have forever. The fundamentals in the business can change and you must take advantage of opportunities if and when they present themselves."

But Harper and Daniel are in a weak negotiating position, and they know it.

Consider geography for a moment.

Canada went full-bore on developing Alberta's oil sands on the "Field of Dreams" principle of "build it, and they will come," but in reality, from the outset there were only two realistic export options, south to the U.S. and westwards to potential second-string Asian market partners.

Northwards?

Eskimos and polar bears have yet to evince any interest.

Eastwards across Canada? A pipeline multiples more expensive to Canada's Atlantic provinces to where? Europe?

Not likely.

So, with the U.S. export route blocked, at least temporarily by Republican Congressional opposition, that leaves? Asia.

Harper accordingly pursued his dog and pony show during his meetings with both Premier Wen Jiabao and Vice-Premier Li Keqiang, who is expected to succeed Wen this fall, by calling for more cooperation. Besides Daniel, Harper's entourage includes five Canadian cabinet Ministers and three dozen industry leaders.

But Harper's portfolio is heavy with annoying local concerns. Over the past few weeks, federal ministers have carried out a high-profile dispute with environmental groups over the proposed Northern Gateway pipeline, with the government labelling protestors "radicals" and Harper has said he is working quickly to generate new legislation to ensure a more rapid review processes that can't be "hijacked" by such groups.

But the news from Beijing is optimistic, as yesterday Li told an audience at a Canada-China business forum, "We need to carry out cooperation in energy trade and facilitate more large scale co-operation projects for oil and gas and mineral resources. We also need to expand our co-operation in nuclear energy and energy conservation clean energy and renewable energy."

And the tea leaves note that China has already invested about $10 billion in Canada's energy sector and, adding to the Harper team's optimism is the fact that it hopes that Chinese investors are expected to seek only minority ownership stakes in Canadian oil and natural gas opportunities, as such a policy is seen as both more acceptable to Canadians and less likely to trigger wider review processes.

Canada holds further appeal for Chinese investors both for its relative proximity and as a stable democracy where supply can be guaranteed more easily than in conflict-ridden states currently supplying Chinese energy needs like Iraq, Iran and Sudan, both north and south.

Still, Harper and Daniels have their work cut out for them explaining those pesky Canadian environmentalists, with Daniels informing his hosts, "I tell them it's the Canadian way. They say they would build it faster in China. But Canada is not China" before adding that both state-owned companies China National Petroleum Corp. (CPNC) and China National Offshore Oil Corp. (CNOOC) are "very interested" in the Northern Gateway pipeline and have expressed "strong interest" in meetings on the project.

You want money? Canaccord Financial Chief Executive Paul Reynolds said that it is setting up a $1 billion fund with the Import Export Bank of China to invest in energy companies or projects in Canada.

And things on Harper's visit are already going swimmingly, as Chinese state news agency Xinhua is reporting that "more than 20 commercial agreements were signed between enterprises of the two countries and that twenty Chinese and Canadian companies on 9 February signed cooperative deals worth about $3 billion on the sidelines of Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper's China visit."

But Harper has undoubtedly received his marching orders in Beijing, to modify current federal legislation that governs new projects ? the National Energy Board Act and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act.

Ottawa's two-year window allocated for hearings on the Northern Gateway project will have Harper explaining Canadian policies to his host.

And who in Canada will pay for the Northern Gateway? Alberta's government is seeking a path for the oil sands through British Columbia by increasing the economic benefits for B.C. to support the project ? including the option of Alberta paying to modernize and expand Canadian West Coast ports.

But British Columbia might not be bought off so easily ? last month, British Columbia Premier Christy Clark bluntly told Alberta Premier Alison Redford's that public opinion is against the pipeline in British Columbia, as Alberta gets the benefits while British Columbia carries the risks of environmental disaster.

And Harper's mao tai toasts may yet carry a favor of home, as British Columbia's Yinka Dene Alliance, a group of five First Nations that represent several thousand Aboriginals people in north-central British Columbia, have written to Chinese President Hu Jintao and to the Chinese media asking Hu to query Harper on Canada's human rights record.

The Yinka Dene Alliance, a group of five First Nations that represents several thousand people in north-central British Columbia, has sent open letters to Chinese President Hu Jintao and to the Chinese media.

The high media ground, in the land of cuddly, photogenic pandas?

"An oil spill on the coast would destroy sources of seafood and fish, like crabs, for thousands of people," it says. "It could destroy the extremely rare spirit bear ? a bear with white fur that is as beautiful as the Chinese panda bear."

What is Mandarin for "bringing home the high carbon content bacon while dealing with those pesky environmentalists?"

Will the "extremely rare spirit bear" win out over an orphaned $97 energy billion investment with nowhere to go?

Place your bets.

(John C.K. Daly of OilPrice.com. The original article appears here.)

Generated by readers, the comments included herein do not reflect the views and opinions of Rigzone. All comments are subject to editorial review. Off-topic, inappropriate or insulting comments will be removed.

Source: http://www.rigzone.com/news/article.asp?a_id=115155&rss=true

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First lady, Pentagon want state licensing requirements eased for military spouses

WASHINGTON ? Pentagon leaders and First Lady Michelle Obama will urge states on Wednesday to ease job licensing requirements for military spouses whose frequent moves hurt their employment prospects.

The push comes as the Defense Department releases a new report showing that more than one-third of all working military spouses regularly deal with the inconsistent state licensing rules and associated employment problems. Teaching, child care and nursing are the three most common occupations among military spouses, and all three typically require state certifications.

?Military families are asked to move again and again, and that transition is a huge headache and a barrier to employment for those spouses,? said Brad Cooper, executive director of the Joining Forces campaign.

Obama and top defense officials are urging states to accept a list of ?best practices? to help military spouses, including providing temporary licenses for new state residents and creating a fast-track licensing process for individuals already certified in another state.

Marcus Beauregard, head of the Pentagon?s office of military community and family policy, said shortening those timelines is especially urgent because military families often live fewer than three years in a single location.

?That gives [spouses] little time to advance in their careers if they have to wait for certification,? he said.

Currently, 11 states have passed laws supporting military spouse license portability: Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Kentucky, Missouri, Montana, Tennessee, Texas, Utah and Washington.

Defense officials have lobbied state officials for similar protections for years, but Cooper said he is confident the cause can gain traction now because of the country?s new focus on helping troops and their families.

shanel@stripes.osd.mil

Twitter: @LeoShane

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/starsandstripes/general/~3/vhcldEzZ0Ak/first-lady-pentagon-want-state-licensing-requirements-eased-for-military-spouses-1.168631

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Swiss defense minister defends Swedish jet deal (AP)

GENEVA ? Switzerland's defense minister has defended a decision to buy Swedish fighter jets, saying it is the best long-term financial choice despite the Swiss Air Force's recommendation to buy other planes.

Ueli Maurer says the Swiss Cabinet's decision in November to order 22 Gripen fighters from Sweden's Saab AB to replace the air force's Northrop F-5 Tigers is "the optimal solution for the Swiss army" based on several years of study.

He said in a statement and press conference Tuesday the decision was based on a cost summary and assessment that the Gripen, the Rafale made by Dassault Aviation of France, and the Eurofighter made by a European consortium, were all adequate.

A 2009 Air Force report made public Sunday put the Rafale and Eurofighter ahead of in tests.

Source: http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/eurobiz/*http%3A//news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20120214/ap_on_re_eu/eu_switzerland_fighter_jets

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TECHNOLOGY RED ALERT: SEN. CHUCK GRASSLEY H V AN IPHONE [Twitter]

It's not easy being Chuck Grassley. First, some jerk makes fun of your inability to spell on Twitter. Then, you continue to use Twitter without learning how to use a keyboard. Then you're hacked. But will an iPhone change everything? More »

Source: http://feeds.gawker.com/~r/gizmodo/full/~3/VVDwbbwGrhg/technology-red-alert-sen-chuck-grassley-h-v-an-iphone

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Videogames: Hostile Environmental Conditions

Gamers are an angry bunch. Quick to anger, loving unprovoked personal attacks it seems. The gaming community at large appears to be a huge cesspit of juvenile?and mostly male?people, who pride themselves on humiliating others. For their opinions, for their gender, race, ability to play games. The gaming community overall is a very hostile, very unfriendly place.

The comment sections of any bigger gaming site are frequently the battlefields of raging flame wars.

The comment sections of any bigger gaming site are frequently the battlefields of raging flame wars. Be it among the commenters or commenters trolling away at the writer of whatever article those comments are placed under. It gets worse, oftentimes completely out of hand, when the topic is somewhat ?controversial?, especially when it?s about women and games.

But why is that so? There are several contributing factors at work here. One is, obviously, the internet. The gaming community is borne from the web, unlike other groups of people who share a hobby and who convene online for the sake of convenience. Gamer meetups?at least where I come from?are rather rare. Gaming is a mostly solitary hobby, even when taking multiplayer games into account. Of course there are LAN parties, which may soften up this account a bit, but eventually The Gamer as a person in this particular hobby pursues his hobby alone.

Therefor, the Internet is the place where gaming communities form. And that leads to another factor, the anonymity of the net. There?s only handles and avatars, no immediate interpersonal communication. There has been a lot of controversy about Blizzards no longer so recent attempt to curb trolling by introducing the Real ID whereby people had to post on the forums using their real names. But even that doesn?t really help the problem of the overall hostile environment much. The communication is still not immediate. Still impersonal.

The next factor is quite simple. Gaming?and especially online gaming?is a highly competetive hobby. With the introduction of gamerscores and achievements, a certain layer of competetiveness has even invaded single player experiences. Due to the lack of interpersonal communication and immediacy, the tone of competitive online multiplayer gaming can be harsh, juvenile, idiotic and hostile as a school of rabid piranhas smelling blood. Racial, misogynist slurs seem to make up regular gamer language, sexually degrading acts belong to the normal reportoire of ?social gestures? in online multiplayer.

This behavior breeds a monoculture.

And while it may all only be a game and while none of the many instances of homophobic, racist and misogynist slurs might not be really meant that way (and here we can again open the can of worms whether that matters or not, my humble opinion is: yes god damn it, it matters, there are things you just don?t do), they still contribute to a seedy violently hostile atmosphere in many niches of the broader gaming community.

This behavior breeds a monoculture. This loud crowd of people drowns out well mannered folks by ensuring they won?t be heard, or won?t even dare to raise their voice, or just won?t care to contribute to this cesspool of insanity to begin with. And therein lies the real tragedy. Unless gamers at large can stop behaving like 13 year olds on crack online, the gaming community won?t be inviting?or not inviting enough?for anyone unable to withstand that kind of socio-Darwinistic survival pressure where it?s survival of either the one with the thickest hide or the meanest, most degrading comeback.

That is not to say that there are not gaming communities that are open, friendly and inclusive. The problem is that those are rare and usually hard to find. Also, those usually don?t make it to the mainstream. The mainstream is all about ?teabagging a faggot in the face after he gets raped.? That just won?t do.

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Source: http://www.gameranx.com/features/id/5016/article/videogames-hostile-environmental-conditions/

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Geothermal Energy in Salt Lake City - Society - EzineMark

Geothermal Energy in Salt Lake City
?

Considering the energy shortages facing us these days, the people of Salt Lake City are making a special effort to find renewable energy sources. One of the most effective renewable energy sources is Salt Lake City geothermal energy. By harnessing this natural force instead of using up limited fossil fuels, we can maintain a greener community.

?

To put it simply, geothermal energy is heat energy from the earth. Just below the earth?s crust is a multitude of hot magma (the material that becomes lava when it erupts from volcanoes), which continually produces heat as it naturally decays radioactive materials like uranium and potassium.

As far as 33,000 feet straight into the earth exists roughly 50,000 times more energy than all of the natural oil and gas in the world.

?

Salt Lake City geothermal energy is an abundant and powerful resource, and it can be used in simple pumping forms or in more complex power stations. According to the Geothermal Energy Association, geothermal energy systems are currently being used all around the world, providing over 8,900 megawatts of geothermal capacity?enough to power 12 million U.S. households.

?

Geothermal heat pumps throughout the country provide balanced heating and cooling systems to thousands of buildings in clean and inexpensive ways. While it is easily accessible in regions with active or geologically young volcanoes, geothermal energy can be harnessed in flat areas far away from tectonic plate lines, as well.

Between 10 and 100 feet, there is enough heat to control the climate within your home, business, school or virtually any other building. You, too, can jump on the Salt Lake City geothermal energy bandwagon and make a positive impact on our environment.

?

Getting started with geothermal

Using Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) emerging technology, more and more companies and citizens are able to harvest the earth?s energy for their own use. Individuals can most easily tap into this source with ground-source heat pumps.

?

Homes in rural areas without access to natural gas lines that use propane or electricity for heating and cooling purposes can add an underground loop to include a geothermal energy pump. This can be done during construction or renovation of the building, so it is not simply added whenever a homeowner learns what geothermal energy is. However, with increased study of Salt Lake City geothermal energy?s properties as well as the public?s education and preparation for this resource, more and more homeowners can benefit from the earth?s natural energy source.

Source: http://society.ezinemark.com/geothermal-energy-in-salt-lake-city-7d339bf68853.html

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getting InTouch ? relationships | sleepsweetsleeps

THINK, SPEAK & CONNECT WITH COMPASSION,

?LANGUAGE OF EMPATHY

Basic skills for personal development that includes empathetic listening & expressing honestly.

Inspired by Nonviolent Communication, a language of ?life by Dr. Marshall Rosenberg

??I believe that the most joyful and intrinsic motivation human beings have for taking any action is the desire to meet our needs and the needs of others.? ? ? ? ? ?Dr. Marshall Rosenberg

?Nonviolent Communication is the most useful process you will?ever learn.?- William Ury, author of Getting To Yes

Integrating the wisdom of the somatic education method developed by Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais, Awareness through Movement?

?Each one of us speaks, moves, thinks and feels in a different way, each according to the image of himself that he has built up over the years. In order to change our mode of action, we must change the image of ourselves that we carry within us.? ? ?Moshe Feldenkrais

_______________________________________________________

Mondays, ?Feb 20-March 26, 2012

• 07:00 pm to 09:00 pm ? ?six consecutive Monday nights

Introduction

Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is a powerful process to increase goodwill in your relationship replacing?habitual?patterns of defensiveness. ??Understand and learn skills ?that nurtures connection and?actions ?to create healthy relationships and the causes of ?disconnect, therefore strain and feelings of loneliness even in our most intimate relationships. ?Some benefits of NVC are; learning empathy to heal?the pain that prevents you from hearing each other in conversation, to break patterns of thinking that leads to anger,?guilt, shame and depression, and to express in a way to resolve conflicts. ?Experience relationships based upon mutual respect,?compassion and cooperation. ?Workshop has been inspired by well-known author of Nonviolent?Communication, Dr. Marshall Rosenberg, who has adapted these basic skills for understanding how to feel heard and to express in a manner more likely to get your needs met. ?It is a well-known ?system for?getting ?past the pain in your relationships to experience more loving kindness.

90.00, for 6 sessions or Register in advance by February 22, 2012 ? $78.00
more info ??renee@insideawareness.com?or?250-361-7508
Location ? Inside Awareness for Health Living

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Source: http://sleepsweetsleeps.com/2012/02/11/getting-intouch-relationships/

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Treasure Coast Real Estate | Jupiter Farms Homes For Sale ...

by starfish on February 11, 2012

Find Jupiter Farms Homes For Sale and Jupiter Farms Home Values. We also have information on mortgages, insurance, movers and other Treasure Coast Real Estate Services for anyone looking to sell or buy a home in beautiful Palm Beach COUNTY Florida.

Paul Kitchen and Starfish Team provide clients, family and close friends with professional, honest and dependable service. A resident of Treasure Coast, Paul is extremely familiar with the local neighborhoods including Jupiter Farms, school districts and the Treasure Coast Real Estate market in this beautiful Florida town.

Paul Kitchen
Broker-Owner
Starfish Real Estate
8985 SE Bridge Road Hobe Sound, Florida 33455
(561) 935-9412
(800) 793-7304 toll free
Treasure Coast Real Estate
Treasure Coast Real Estate Blog

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Source: http://www.treasure-coast-living.com/2012/02/11/treasure-coast-real-estate-jupiter-farms-homes-for-sale-february-2012-2/

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France's Total gets oil price profit boost

PARIS (AP) ? French oil company Total SA forecast higher production this year while revealing Friday that higher oil prices helped it post a 12.8 percent rise in fourth quarter profits despite a drop in output.

France's largest company by market value reported fourth quarter profit of euro2.29 billion ($3.0 billion) from euro2.03 billion the year before.That took the full-year profit up to euro12.3 billion, 16 percent higher from euro10.5 billion in 2010.

CEO Christophe de Margerie said high oil prices helped profits on production activities in the quarter but hurt downstream operations such as refining. Upstream revenue was up 21 percent in the fourth quarter to euro2.8 billion while downstream revenue fell 7 percent, losing euro222 million.

De Margerie said the company plans euro20 billion in investments this year and that the startup of the new deep offshore Pazflor field in Angola and others "will ensure a return to production growth in 2012 and the years to come."

Total's output was down 1.3 percent over the year at 2.35 million barrels a day. It was 2.38 million barrels a day in the fourth quarter, roughly unchanged from the same quarter a year earlier.

The company announced a dividend of euro2.28, the same as the year before.

Europe's biggest oil company, Royal Dutch Shell, reported weaker than expected fourth quarter earnings last week and also said it would embark on a new program to boost production. Shell reported a 4.3 percent annual fall in fourth quarter earnings to $6.5 billion because of a sharp downturn in industry refining margins and in natural gas prices.

Britain's BP PLC posted double-digit gains in profit and revenue in the last three months of 2011 despite further big payments to compensate for the disastrous oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. BP reported a profit of $7.69 billion.

Associated Press

Source: http://hosted2.ap.org/APDEFAULT/f70471f764144b2fab526d39972d37b3/Article_2012-02-10-EU-France-Earns-Total/id-44fc00c40dd74dad8c5c20d3ebced658

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Valentines Gifts for everyone Shopping & Product Reviews ...

by djonkarter on February 8, 2012

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The charming scent of Valentine?s Day is rapid approaching. Its celebrated around the 14th day of February. Actually wondered how Valentine?s Day became the day of month like and also the period of sharing? There are various tales, reverse opinions on how this festivity of appreciate and giving of Valentines Gifts began. Nonetheless, the one fact about these tales is that love reigns above all over the globe.

For most many people giving of red roses to their lovers could be the sweetest present they could give since it represents really like and sincerity. Its no technique how it became favorite for the vast majority. How about something a single of the sort this 12 months of Valentine?s Day that your lover will treasure for over a extended time or Permanently! Win the coronary heart of one?s most particular one particular in four very simple actions. Shock your lover with the gifts that lets you know appreciate him or her. Below are some suggestions that may certainly operate.

one.????????????? Why not sing a track? This is something that every lady desired to listen to. It doesn?t require a very good excellent of the voice however the thoughts and heartfelt emotions that counts. Should you be acquainted with Jay Rawlins a singer plus a songwriter did this for his girlfriend. He came out with the idea of creating a tune for her girlfriend?s birthday and every woman was surprised and wished 1.

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two.????????????? Have a superb time to celebrate Valentine?s Day with idealistic supper for two. In case you have complications with capital, don?t worry. In the event you adore cooking collectively, organize and create your supper with each other. Cook your favored foods at the same time making the most of the bond.? Nonetheless, do not forget the candles, wine, sweet new music, and smile which will transform ragu into amore. Perfect if you happen to surprise your partner with jewellery which will steal your lover?s heart.

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three.?????????? Be imaginative and artistic. Expose your really like and passion to your lover by way of painting. As significantly as feasible do it along with your hand not using the Photoshop filters on your personal laptop or computer. The painting will be appreciated a lot by your lover and this can remind her of you everyday whenever your lover put it in his/her space.

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4.????????????? Love is within the air ? and in the h2o! As romance can be anyplace why don?t you take adventurous moments together with your lover like sky diving, skiing, boating, and h2o diving. Think of the bond and wonderful memories you may make by adventuring during Valentine?s Day. Even though, this is costly it?ll be a day you will in no way neglect as well as a present that could last a lifetime. The reminiscences of photo will reminds of one?s endless really like and appreciation for your love one particular.

Regardless of what gifts you will give to get the coronary heart of the valentine do not forget the ideas plus the love ? the best Valentines Gifts above all.?? Bear in mind, the best Valentines Gifts can not be noticed inside a jewellery shop or under in a shop, but inside the hearts of accurate enjoys.

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Tagged as: Valentines Gifts

Source: http://reviewbank.org/valentines-gifts-for-everyone/

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Pennsylvania Military Families Now Have ... - Payday Loans UK

(SOURCE Pennsylvania Securities Commission) ? Copies of the second edition of the ?Financial Field Manual: The Personal Finance Guide for Military Families? will be distributed on military bases and directly to military families in Pennsylvania by the Pennsylvania Securities Commission (PSC), under a partnership of the Investor Protection Trust (IPT), the Investor Protection Institute (IPI), the Council of Better Business Bureaus (CBBB) and Kiplinger?s Personal Finance Magazine.

Written in Kiplinger?s accessible style by contributing editor Kimberly Lankford (a military spouse), the January 2012 guide from IPT, IPI, CBBB and Kiplinger?s focuses on the key issues that can help military families make informed investing decisions, protect their money and their families, and take charge of their financial lives.

Pennsylvania Securities Chairman Bob Lam said: ?We are aware of the fact that military families in Pennsylvania face a lot of financial pressures during these difficult economic times.? That?s why we are eager to help get out the word to active and retired military personnel and family members about what they can do to strengthen their finance and also to avoid the unscrupulous con artists and quick-buck schemers who prey on those who serve our nation.?

IPT President and CEO Don Blandin said: ?For military families at home, readiness in terms of their personal finances can be nearly as important as the readiness of their loved ones who are in harm?s way serving our nation.? Unfortunately, military families can have a difficult time finding the resources needed to help them make smart investing decisions.? To fill this gap in financial education, the Investor Protection Trust and the Investor Protection Institute have partnered with Kiplinger?s Personal Finance Magazine and the Council of Better Business Bureaus to publish ?Financial Field Manual: The Personal Finance Guide for Military Families.??

An online version of the guide is available from the Pennsylvania Securities Commission at www.psc.state.pa.us.

The 20-page booklet features success stories from service members and their families, and provides comprehensive guidance on a wide range of timely personal finance topics, including:

Investing for the Future. Members of the military have access to special investing plans that can help them save for the future, but they?re also frequent targets of scam artists and identity thieves. The guide shows them how to make the most of their special savings plans, make smart investing decisions, and avoid the new generation of scams
Protecting Investments and Family. Military families have some unique risks?especially when they?re deployed?but they also have access to special programs to help them protect their savings and their families. The booklet guides them on how to make the most of these resources in areas such as insurance, estate planning, and new tax rules.
Special Home-Buying Resources. Military families, who tend to move frequently and sometimes with little notice, have been hit particularly hard by the housing downturn. But they also have access to special mortgage programs and tax breaks. The guide addresses these valuable resources and some key investing decisions to protect them from housing troubles that can jeopardize their financial situation.
Protecting Investments When Leaving the Military. Service men and women need to make some key investing decisions after leaving the military. The booklet provides guidance to help ensure that the savings they have built throughout their service lasts through retirement ? which is particularly timely as they enter a challenging civilian job market.
Special Benefits for Military Families. Members of the military have special legal rights and access to other valuable benefits, such as a GI bill that can help service members, their spouses and their children pay for college. The guide shows them how to make the most of those benefits to help protect their savings.

ABOUT PSC

The Pennsylvania Securities Commission is the state agency regulating the investment industry.? All stock brokers, retirement planners, investment adviser representatives and other investment professionals in Pennsylvania are required by law to be registered with the PSC.? Most investment related products are also required by law to be registered or on file with the PSC.

The PSC investigates investment related crimes targeting any consumers, including active and retired military personnel.? Troops returning from active duty as well as military family members of active duty personnel are often targets of scam artists.? Scam artists take advantage of a hectic and emotionally charged time period, hoping returning military personnel and family members will not ?investigate before they invest.?

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Anyone working with or planning to work with any investment professional should always contact the PSC first to confirm the professional is appropriately registered.? You can also request a free, confidential background report on any investment professional at any time.? Call the PSC toll free in Pennsylvania at 1-800-600-0007 or 717-787-8062 outside of PA.

Through the PSC?s Investor Education Section, numerous educational, non-commercial presentations and handouts are available for all age groups in all 67 counties of Pennsylvania.? The Investor Education section informs consumers of the basics of investing and creates awareness of the many investment scams that exist.? Multiple online resources are available at www.psc.state.pa.us/investor through the PSC Investor Education website.

ABOUT IPT

The Investor Protection Trust (IPT) is a nonprofit organization devoted to investor education. More than half of all Americans are now invested in the securities markets, making investor education and protection vitally important. Since 1993 the Investor Protection Trust has worked with the states and at the national level to provide the independent, objective investor education needed by all Americans to make informed investment decisions. The Investor Protection Trust strives to keep all Americans on the right money track. www.investorprotection.org

ABOUT IPI

The Investor Protection Institute (IPI) is an independent nonprofit organization that advances investor protection by conducting and supporting unbiased research and groundbreaking education programs. IPI carries out its mission through investor education, protection and research programs delivered at both the national and grassroots level in collaboration with state securities regulators and other strategic partners. IPI is dedicated to providing innovative investor-protection programs that will make a meaningful difference in the financial lives of Americans in all walks of life and at all levels of sophistication about financial matters. www.protectinvestors.org

ABOUT KIPLINGER

Kiplinger?s Personal Finance magazine has been providing millions of Americans with down-to-earth advice on managing their money and achieving financial security since 1947. Along with Kiplinger.com, it is a highly trustworthy source of information on saving and investing, taxes, credit, homeownership, paying for college, retirement planning, car buying and many other personal finance topics.

ABOUT BBB MILITARY LINE

BBB Military Line? is a Better Business Bureau 501(c)(3) program established in 2004. It operates in partnership with the DOD Financial Readiness Campaign and is a partner in the National Joining Forces Initiative. BBB Military Line brings financial workshops tailored to the military for adults and teens; participates in community fairs, conferences and military-installation events; and provides consumer protection information and services?all through the efforts of local BBBs throughout the U.S. Our program empowers our military communities and builds bridges between civilian and military cultures through face-to-face interaction and cooperation. Our online presence provides financial-literacy and military consumer information, along with consumer threat alerts that specifically target the military population. Please visit www.bbb.org/military for more information.

SOURCE Pennsylvania Securities Commission

Article source: http://www.loansafe.org/pennsylvania-military-families-now-have-access-to-financial-field-manual-for-personal-finances

Source: http://paydayloans-uk.org/pennsylvania-military-families-now-have-access-to-financial-field-manual-for/

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German court rejects Jewish ghetto work claims (AP)

BERLIN ? A German court has rejected the claim of two Jewish women for extra pension payments for work they did under the Nazis in ghettos.

The Federal Social Affairs Court in Kassel ruling Tuesday could affect some 20,000 people who worked for meager wages in the ghettos.

A 2002 law set the stage for such pensions to be paid, but only retroactive to 1997. In 2009, a court ruling made it easier to qualify.

The unidentified plaintiffs' initial applications were rejected. After the 2009 ruling, they applied again ? successfully.

The plaintiffs argued their payments should begin from 1997, despite their initial rejections. But the court ruled the monthly payment of approximately euro150 could only be backdated to 2005. That's four years back from the second date, in accordance with German pension law.

Source: http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/religion/*http%3A//news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20120207/ap_on_re_eu/eu_germany_jewish_claims

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RM > Careers Lab - Where ideas come to life and careers are made

Ref

3559

Region

South & South East

Location

Abingdon, Oxfordshire

Specialism

Human Resources & Facilities

Job Description

An exceptional opportunity for a high calibre Senior HR Business Partner / Human Resources Manager to work for a dynamic and successful plc in a role that combines all elements of generalist HR and specific ownership for group-wide Compensation & Benefits.

RM Education is the leading provider of IT solutions to schools and multiple recipient of the 'UK's Top IT Employer' award with over 2000 staff based globally. Reporting to the newly promoted HR Director, the jobholder will play a key role in the design and implementation of HR strategy, lead a team of three experienced HR Consultants in supporting RM's largest division 'Education Technology' (650 UK staff across diverse disciplines) and hold influence across the entire organisation as the Company Comp & Bens expert.?

Human Resources has earned a privileged high status within RM and the jobholder will further contribute to this by operating as a true business partner to the ET Divisional Managing Director and his Senior Leadership Team, providing forward looking generalist & specialist support to successfully meet business challenges. This will encompass all elements of generalist HR including OD, ER, Resourcing, Talent Management, Staff Engagement and Performance Standards.

Overall this represents the chance to progress your career in a highly respected and professional company where HR plays a very significant role in success for employees, customers and shareholders.

Key Responsibilities

Provide generalist HR Business Partner support to the ET Division

- Through regular 1-1's with Directors, develop a strong understanding of the key business deliverables & metrics and help drive performance by providing expert advice and input to management across all elements of HR.??
-?Provide appropriate organisational and job design and ensure the right talent are in place and developed to continually deliver business objectives.

-?Support Line Managers to fairly and effectively address people issues.

-?Support line managers and work closely with the Head of Recruitment in identifying and implementing effective recruitment and resourcing strategies.

Provide Compensation & Benefits expertise across the Group

???????? - Develop expertise and market knowledge in compensation and benefits.
-?Recommend strategy for the implementation of the Company Salary and Bonus Reviews to reflect market factors and align reward with contribution and strategic business objectives.?Project Manage the effective implementation of the salary and bonus reviews ensuring 100% data accuracy.
-?Recommend structure of bonus or commission schemes and contribute to the development of future strategy. Effectively market benefits internally.
-?Manage the relationship with RM's benefit providers to reduce costs and improve service. Recommend change of service provider if necessary.

Operate as part of the HR Leadership Team

???????? - Provide support to the HR Director and deputise where appropriate.
-?Develop, review and maintain Group wide policies, process and procedures.
-?Chair the Job Evaluation Committee.

Line manage a team of three HR Consultants (two covering operational areas and one comp & bens / systems specialist).

- Appraise, support, coach, mentor and develop staff.
- Ensure the team are providing a highly effective business partner service to managers and directors within the ET division. ?

The Individual

Why you should consider this role

• Highly challenging and stimulating role with significant breadth to utilise all areas of HR but also further develop Comp & Bens expertise.
• HR is a highly respected within RM and is positioned at the very heart of the business (literally sit 20 feet away from the Board Directors), thus affording opportunities to influence at the highest levels and help Managers and Directors be more effective leaders.
• Established in 1973, RM is a well regarded, quality focused and dynamic business with a strong, collaborative and values-driven culture.??
• RM has just undergone a major strategic review and restructure, positioning the company well for continued business success.
• Education ICT is a highly rewarding business sector where staff can make a truly significant difference to the lives of millions of young people.

Benefits

• 25 Days Annual Leave (option to buy an extra?5 days)
• Personal & Company related Bonus Scheme
• Staff Share Scheme
• Group Personal Pension
• Private Medical Healthcare
• Income Protection
• Life Assurance
• Childcare Vouchers
• Travelcard Loan
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Give As You Earn (GAYE)
• Employee Referral Scheme
• Voluntary Dental Plan
• Voluntary Health Cash Plan
• RM also has a lively Sports & Social scene

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If you'd like more information about our roles or working for RM, login to "RM Talk" via our careers homepage on Monday's, Wednesday's and Friday's between 12.30 - 1.30pm and chat live to a member of our recruitment team.

Source: http://www.i-grasp.com/fe/tpl_rm.asp?newms=jj&id=37418&rss=1

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Organizing Relocation For the First Time ? Article Squadron

Regardless if you are going to college or relocating for a work associated causes, a first time move can create combined feelings of pleasure and nervousness. Something new is always fascinating, but the certain relocation can be a difficult task.

Even those who have the money to hire movers may not be exempt from worry, as they have to ensure that breakables will be safe in the hands of labourers with no emotional attachment to these items.

No matter what your plans are, getting all the parts jointly in an arranged, relaxed manner is extremely challenging. Anyway, it may possibly go properly if you plan in advance.

The following moving tips are tried and tested ways of lowering the burdensome aspects that often go hand and hand with moving.

1. Start packing 5-6 weeks earlier.

2. Locate used moving boxes ? one good way to save money is to locate used recycled boxes. You can also go to grocery and retail stores to see if they have any unused boxes that you can take home with you. 3. Make an inventory of your household items ? keeping a running check list of what has gone into which boxes is another way to lessen your headaches once you get to your new home.

3. Put labels on your containers to know what is inside.

4. Involve the family ? small kids may not be bale to participate as much, but older children can help by packing up their own rooms or keeping younger kids occupied as you get everything together.

5. Cover delicate things in bubble wrap, and make sure to tag the outside of the container as FRAGILE. This small tidbit of info will be handy to you and also movers when the time comes to move the item in question.

6. Call relevant utility companies ? Before you move to your new location be sure you turn the utilities off at your old house and turned everything on at the new one. You may also wish to put in a change of address card at the post office to have your mail re-routed as well.

7. Set aside the stuff you may require immediately. Put this stuff at easy-to-get spot.

If at all possible, try to go to your new home a day or two prior to the actual move, to make sure the utilities have been transferred. When you manage to employ all of the above tips your transition into a new home will go smoothly, giving you time to enjoy the scenery and get comfortable in your new abode!

Save up to 40% on your moving expense by requesting your interstate moving companys. Clink on this link to read other reasons to discuss relocating quotes to get competitive prices for your relocation allowance and never become a victim to fraudulent moving companies.

Source: http://articlesquadron.com/real-estate/moving-relocating/organizing-relocation-for-the-first-time

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Syrian troops continue Homs attack

At least 12 people have been killed as Syrian troops shelled parts of the city of Homs, striking a makeshift medical clinic and residential areas, activists said.

The bloodshed came one day after President Bashar Assad's government vowed to continue its crackdown on a nearly 11-month-old uprising that has become one of the deadliest of the Arab Spring. The activist reports could not be independently confirmed.

Homs - which many refer to as "the capital of the Syrian revolution" - has become a flashpoint of the uprising against Assad. Several areas of the city, such as Baba Amr, are under the control of rebel army defectors.

On Saturday, Syrian forces killed up to 200 people in Homs - the highest death toll reported for a single day in the uprising - according to several rights groups.

The Local Co-ordination Committees activist group said the latest bombardment hit a makeshift clinic in the tense neighbourhood of Baba Amr, causing casualties. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said at least 12 people were killed across the city.

Omar Shaker, an activist in Baba Amr, said a paramedic was wounded in the shelling of the clinic and two people who were standing outside were killed instantly. He added that many volunteers at the hospital were injured as well as people receiving treatment.

Syria's state-run TV denied that government forces were besieging the area, saying activists in the city were setting tyres on fire to make it appear as if there was a bombardment. Syria has banned independent reporting and largely sealed off trouble spots, making it difficult to confirm accounts from either side.

Activists say they fear that the decision by Russia and China on Saturday to block a UN Security Council resolution on Syria will embolden Mr Assad's regime. Some fear that Syria's turmoil will move into even a more dangerous new phase which could degenerate into outright civil war.

On Sunday, the commander of rebel soldiers said force was now the only way to oust Mr Assad, while the regime vowed to continue its military crackdown to bring back stability to the country.

"We did not sleep all night," Majd Amer, another activist in Homs, said by telephone. Explosions could be heard in the background. "The regime is committing organised crimes."

Source: http://rss.feedsportal.com/c/845/f/464365/s/1c6d130e/l/0L0Sbelfasttelegraph0O0Cnews0Cworld0Enews0Csyrian0Etroops0Econtinue0Ehoms0Eattack0E161139370Bhtml0Dr0FRSS/story01.htm

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Scott Mendelson: The Newly Announced Before Watchmen Is a Prime Example of What's Killing Mainstream Comics (Huffington post)

Share With Friends: | | Politics - Top Stories News, RSS and RSS Feed via Feedzilla.

Source: http://news.feedzilla.com/en_us/stories/politics/top-stories/195756340?client_source=feed&format=rss

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Tens of thousands rally against Putin

Demonstrators gather for a massive protest against Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's rule in Moscow, Saturday, Feb. 4, 2012. Thousands of Russians are taking to the streets of Moscow to demand an end to Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's rule, challenging his bid to reclaim presidency in March. The protest expected to draw tens of thousands despite temperatures plunging to minus 20 degrees Celsius (minus 4 degrees Fahrengheit). (AP Photo/Alexander Zemlianichenko)

Demonstrators gather for a massive protest against Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's rule in Moscow, Saturday, Feb. 4, 2012. Thousands of Russians are taking to the streets of Moscow to demand an end to Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's rule, challenging his bid to reclaim presidency in March. The protest expected to draw tens of thousands despite temperatures plunging to minus 20 degrees Celsius (minus 4 degrees Fahrengheit). (AP Photo/Alexander Zemlianichenko)

Russian billionaire and presidential candidate Mikhail Prokhorov, center, walks among demonstrators gathered for a massive protest against Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's rule in Moscow, Saturday, Feb. 4, 2012. Thousands of Russians are taking to the streets of Moscow to demand an end to Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's rule, challenging his bid to reclaim presidency in March. The protest expected to draw tens of thousands despite temperatures plunging to minus 20 degrees Celsius (minus 4 degrees Fahrengheit). (AP Photo/Sergey Ponomarev)

Russian billionaire and presidential candidate Mikhail Prokhorov, center, walks among demonstrators gathered for a massive protest against Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's rule in Moscow, Saturday, Feb. 4, 2012. Thousands of Russians are taking to the streets of Moscow to demand an end to Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's rule, challenging his bid to reclaim presidency in March. The protest expected to draw tens of thousands despite temperatures plunging to minus 20 degrees Celsius (minus 4 degrees Fahrengheit). (AP Photo/Sergey Ponomarev)

Demonstrators march during a massive protest against Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's rule in Moscow, Saturday, Feb. 4, 2012. Thousands of Russians are taking to the streets of Moscow to demand an end to Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's rule, challenging his bid to reclaim presidency in March. The protest expected to draw tens of thousands despite temperatures plunging to minus 20 C (minus 4 F). (AP Photo/Alexander Zemlianichenko)

A nationalist demonstrator waves a flag as people gather for a massive protest against Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's rule in Moscow, Saturday, Feb. 4, 2012. Thousands of Russians are taking to the streets of Moscow to demand an end to Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's rule, challenging his bid to reclaim presidency in March. The protest expected to draw tens of thousands despite temperatures plunging to minus 20 C (minus 4 F). (AP Photo/Alexander Zemlianichenko)

MOSCOW (AP) ? Tens of thousands of Russians flooded downtown Moscow on Saturday to demand an end to Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's rule, braving sub-zero temperatures to keep the protest movement alive one month before a presidential election that Putin is still expected to win.

The protest ? which drew 120,000 people, according to organizers ? was the third mass demonstration since Putin's party won a parliamentary election Dec. 4 with the help of what appeared to be widespread fraud.

The election and Putin's presumptuous decision to reclaim the presidency proved the last straw for Russians increasingly unhappy with the creeping authoritarianism during his 12-year rule. The protest rallies ? which have brought together liberals, leftists and nationalists ? are the biggest in Russia since the the demonstrations 20 years ago that led to the collapse of the Soviet Union.

On Saturday, people wearing the white ribbons that have become the symbol of the protest movement and chanting "Russia Without Putin" braved temperatures as low as minus 4 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 20 degrees Celsius) as they marched about one kilometer (less than a mile) to a square across the river from the Kremlin where their rally was held. Thousands of police monitored the peaceful protest without intervening.

"There are now so many of us that they cannot arrest us all," said 56-year-old protester Alexander Zelensky.

He and his wife, Alyona Karimova, said they had begun preparations to emigrate to Canada in the fall, but then changed their minds and decided to stay in the hope that Russia will eventually move toward democracy.

"This is going to be a gradual process, but we believe it will eventually lead to democracy and free elections," said Karimova, who was wearing a long mink coat and a sign around her neck telling Putin to return to his native St. Petersburg.

An anti-Putin protest also took place in St. Petersburg on Saturday, drawing 5,000 people, and smaller rallies were held in several dozen other cities across Russia.

A separate rally in Moscow in support of Putin drew no more than 20,000 people. Most of them were teachers, municipal workers, employees of state-owned companies or trade union activists, who had come with co-workers on buses provided by their employers.

Most of the pro-Putin protesters were reluctant to speak to journalists. Yekaterina, a 25-year-old postal worker who gave only her first name out of fear she would be fired, said she had been ordered to attend the rally and was told she would be paid as if it were a work day.

The anti-Putin protests have been driven by members of the educated and urban middle class.

Putin has ignored many of their demands, including for a repeat election, but he has sought to assuage their anger by making vague promises to introduce liberal reforms and to guarantee a fair presidential vote on March 4.

The protest leaders hope to stage another rally a week before the election to keep up the pressure on Putin.

To counter the protests, Putin has focused on consolidating his core support group of blue-collar workers, farmers, public servants and the elderly. He also has tried to discredit the protesters by casting their leaders as Western lackeys working to weaken Russia.

The opposition has also drawn some criticism for including Communists and nationalists in its ranks. Separately from the massive march, Saturday also saw a small Moscow rally by anti-Putin figures who want to keep their distance. But the thrust of their demands was the same as at the larger gathering.

Putin talks about stability ... we don't need the stability of the cemetery," longtime dissident Valeria Novodvorskaya told the rally of about 250.

The presidential race pits Putin against three leaders of parliamentary parties, who have run against him in the past, and one fresh face: the billionaire owner of the New Jersey Nets basketball team, Mikhail Prokhorov. Prokhorov joined Saturday's protest, but did not speak from the stage.

None of the contenders is expected to pose any serious challenge to Putin, whose ratings are now hovering just below the 50 percent needed for a first-round victory. If Putin fails to win an outright victory, he would face a runoff three weeks later, most likely against Communist Party chief Gennady Zyuganov, a rival he could easily defeat.

Protesters at Saturday's rally denounced the race as illegitimate, pointing to the tight controls Putin has imposed over the political scene that have destroyed all genuine political competition.

Grigory Yavlinsky, leader of the opposition Yabloko party who was barred from the presidential race, said the fight will not end after the election. "We are defending the future of our country," he said from the stage. "Our foes will soon see that it's only the beginning."

As the afternoon sun started to fade, the rally ended with the call of "Not a Single Vote for Putin" and demands for legal reforms that would open the way for fair political competition and for new parliamentary and presidential elections. The protesters also demanded the release of political prisoners and punishment for those involved in the vote-rigging.

Before heading home, the protesters released white balloons ? a symbol of peaceful protest.

____

Nataliya Vasilyeva and Jim Heintz contributed to this report.

Associated Press

Source: http://hosted2.ap.org/APDEFAULT/cae69a7523db45408eeb2b3a98c0c9c5/Article_2012-02-04-EU-Russia-Protest/id-af9bb64e56c441d5a11558ba7e1b6b07

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